More Asian longhorned ticks are appearing in the U.S.
Just last week, two cases were found in Kentucky of a new, and potentially dangerous, cattle disease caused by the pest. Now, the CDC has confirmed the tick has been found in 17 states.
The insect carries “Ikeda,” which is a disease that kills cattle. The CDC says it is transmitted through tick saliva, but blood sharing through needles can also cause spread.
Experts say the incubation period is one to three weeks, and 80 percent of a herd could be infected within as little as 30 days. However, the death rate is below 5 percent.
Related:
Asian Longhorned Tick Reported in Kentucky
Concerns Over Cattle: Industry leaders address tick-borne illnesses
Cattle producers should be on alert for new tick species
