Abstract:

In Uganda, the major tick-borne diseases ofeconomic importance are East Coast Fever (ECF) caused by Theileria
parva^ anaplasmosis caused by Anaplasma marginale, babesiosis caused by Babesia bigemina and heart water caused
by Cowdria(i ruminatium. These diseases are transmitted by Rhipicephalus appendiculdtus, Boophilus decoloratus
and Amblyomma variegatum, respectively which arc widespread throughout the country and lack seasonality. The
control of ticks and tick-bornc diseases (TBD) has been one of the most important emphases of the Veterinary
Department. Until recently, control of TBDs has relied mainly on restriction of cattle movement and use of acaricides
which are applied on animals in dips, or as sprays and hand dressing. However, recent years have seen very substantial
improvements of methods for the control of ticks and TBDs. New drugs have been introduced for the treatment of
TBDs. There arc now highly effective drugs for treatment of theileriosis, particularly ECF. New generations of
acaricides which are very efficacious are now available. Infection and treatment method of immunisation has been
devised and introduced.These control methods cither individually or combined have been successful in controlling
ticks and TBD and has caused the general improvement in the conditions of the cattle and increased the cattle
population. The tick control measures using acaricides have enabled highly productive and susceptible exotic cattle to
be kept in Uganda, a task that seemed impossible 40 years ago. Immunisation against ECF together with tick control,
have allowed more Ugandan farmers to raise higher producing exotic cattle breeds without suffering from the high
costs and losses due to ticks and TBDs.