North Coast Local Land Services is reminding producers to practice good farm biosecurity, following the confirmation of tick fever in cattle on two properties in the region.

District veterinarian Dr Phillip Kemsley said that three cows had died from the disease on a property in the Tweed and two on a holding in the Lismore area.

Tick fever and cattle tick are notifiable under NSW Biosecurity legislation as they are the two conditions with the biggest economic impact on cattle production in northern Australia. This is due to the potential of large losses of animals, production losses, restrictions on trade and the cost of treatment.

“Tick fever can move quickly, and prompt action on both properties involved in our region has prevented further losses. It’s important to contact your District Vet early,” Dr Kemsley 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. Effective treatments and prevention are available.

“Cattle affected by tick fever often die soon after the onset of signs so it is not unusual to discover cattle already dead,” Dr Kemsley added

Tick fever is only spread between cattle by cattle ticks. The infection cannot spread from animal to animal without ticks.

When cattle ticks are detected on a property, movement restrictions are put in place and tracing of animals is undertaken to check for spread to other holdings. The NSW Department of Primary Industries will supervise a cattle tick eradication program which can run for over 12 months.

North Coast Local Land Services general manager Louise Orr urged livestock producers to be on the lookout for ticks and anything unusual.

 “These recent outbreaks are a reminder to cattle producers to be vigilant with biosecurity practices to prevent introducing diseases, pests and weeds onto our farms,” Ms Orr said.

Anyone who sees signs suspicious of tick fever can contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

For further information contact North Coast Local Land Services on 1300 795 299.