Preliminary observations on ticks and tickborne diseases in the North West province of Cameroon. II. Bovine heartwater

Abstract

In this study, the effects of heartwater on cattle at the Bambui (Cameroon) Animal and Veterinary Research Institute were evaluated. The seasonal distribution of Amblyomma variegatum ticks was observed and the breed, sex, age and seasonal effects with regard to mortality by heartwater studied. The variations of the monthly distribution of Amblyomma variegatum were highly significant (P < 0.005). Adult ticks were most abundant in the beginning of the rainy season leading to more deaths due to heartwater. The overall breed effect on mortality was significant (P < 0.005). Holstein crosses were the most susceptible to heartwater. Control methods must be set up to prevent adult crossbred animals from being exposed to heavy infestations by A. variegatum. There were differences among age groups with regard to mortality but there was no sex effect. Field studies need to be carried out to assess the situation in the extensive cattle farming system practiced by most of the livestock farmers in Cameroon.