The invasive Asian longhorned tick has been confirmed in Fulton County, according to County Agent Anna Barnett. In recent testing, the tick was linked to the presence of *Theileria orientalis*, a parasite that can cause severe illness in cattle.
Barnett is urging local cattle producers to stay vigilant, closely monitor their herds, and take precautions to minimize the risk. To assist in these efforts, agricultural extension livestock specialists have compiled a checklist of preventive measures.
Recommended steps include regularly checking cattle for ticks, implementing an effective tick control program, and following sanitary practices, such as using a clean needle for each animal and avoiding the use of contaminated equipment across herds. Barnett advises producers to contact their veterinarian if cattle display signs consistent with *theileriosis* or *anaplasmosis*, two tick-borne illnesses that can have serious effects on livestock health.
The Asian longhorned tick was first detected in Arkansas in 2019 and has since been confirmed in over 30 counties across the state. In September, the tick was identified in Sharp, Lawrence, and Independence Counties. Research indicates the tick has the ability to spread diseases between animals, compounding the risk to livestock operations.
Barnett and local experts stress the importance of proactive measures to prevent tick infestations and protect herd health as the tick continues to expand its presence in the region.