An outbreak of tick fever in two properties on the Far North Coast has prompted a warning to livestock producers to practice good farm biosecurity and prevent introducing diseases, pests and weeds onto their farms. 

District Veterinarian with North Coast Local Land Services (NCLLS) Dr Phil Kemsley said producers should contact a vet immediately if cattle have high fevers and behaviour changes.

"If treatment is delayed, tick fever can spread quickly in a herd and kill large numbers of cattle," Dr Kemsley said.

Tick infestation.

“We have seen cases of tick fever recently in the Tweed area during investigations on two neighbouring properties with cattle tick infestations and cattle deaths,” Dr Kemsley said.  

“Tick fever is spread only by cattle ticks. It appears animals with cattle tick strayed between the two properties, spreading cattle tick and with it tick fever. 

“Last year saw a record number of new cattle tick infestations in NSW, and in most cases, straying was the source of the cattle tick.” 

Stock proof boundary fences are critical to keeping cattle tick out and producers should examine any strays before sending them home. 

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) senior veterinary officer, Paul Freeman, said tick fever in cattle is a devastating condition that can cause fever, jaundice, anaemia, miscarriage, red urine and a range of nervous signs, including change in temperament, lethargy, muscle tremors and difficulty walking.  

“Current seasonal conditions are favourable for ticks who thrive on heat, and high humidity and producers should check cattle regularly especially as cattle are being yarded now in preparation for autumn sales,” Dr Freeman said. 

Tick fever and cattle tick are notifiable under NSW biosecurity legislation.

They are the two conditions with the most significant economic impact on cattle production in northern Australia due to the potential of large losses of animals, production losses, restrictions on trade, and treatment cost. 

For information about cattle tick and tick fever, visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/animals-and-livestock/beef-cattle/health-and-disease/parasitic-and protozoal-diseases/ticks 

To report signs of tick fever and cattle tick after hours, contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.