29/01/2025
(Surra) An important disease of cattle and buffalo caused by protozoa.
Transmitted mechanically by biting flies.
Cattle and buffalo also are reservoir hosts to horses and camels.
Blood from infected animal, occasionally meat and milk are the sources of infection.
There is severe loss of productivity due to anaemia. Animals under stress are more susceptible to the disease.
SYMPTOMS
Progressive anaemia, weight loss and weakness.
Abortions, infertility and stillbirth may occur in buffaloes.
Cattle may have a chronic course with high mortality and may last up to 2 years.
Death may occur in 2 weeks to 2 months.
Oedematous swellings of the lower parts of the body (legs, briskets and abdomen) may be seen.
Lymph nodes also may be swollen.
Nervous signs like head tilt, circling, blindness, hyper-excitability, paddling movements may also be seen.