Heartwater

Last Modified: Fri, 24 Nov 2023 10:16:47 GMT
Disease name Heartwater
Animal Health Law Category if applicable N/A
Species affected Multiple(not specified)
Description Heartwater (also known as cowdriosis) is an acute, fatal, non-contagious, infectious, tick-borne rickettsial disease of ruminants caused by Ehrlichia ruminantium (formerly Cowdria ruminantium) and transmitted by Amblyomma ticks. It occurs in nearly all sub-Saharan countries of Africa, in its neighbouring islands, and also in the Caribbean, threatening the American mainland. The disease can cause high mortality (up to 90%) in susceptible domestic ruminants. Goats and sheep are more susceptible than cattle, and European breeds are generally more susceptible than indigenous African breeds.
Status in Ireland Absent
Date of Last known case of disease in Ireland Never reported
DAFM Division Responsible RVL Division
Contact RVLSurveillance@agriculture.gov.ie
Legislation
http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2017/si/408/made/en/print
Link to relevant external website
Notifiable in Ireland Yes
WOAH Listed Yes
WOAH Link https://www.woah.org/en/disease/heartwater/
Publications