Prevalence of Theileriosis in Cattle in Benue State, North Central Nigeria

This study investigates the prevalence of Theileria spp. infection in cattle in Benue State, located in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone. Theileriosis is a tick-borne protozoan disease of cattle that causes lymphoproliferation, haemolytic anaemia, and death in susceptible animals, particularly in areas with high tick vector density. Benue State's humid climate and extensive grazing systems provide favourable conditions for tick vector proliferation, yet epidemiological data on theileriosis prevalence in the state are limited. Using a cross-sectional design, blood samples were collected from 220 cattle across five local government areas in Benue State. Giemsa-stained thin blood films were examined for Theileria spp. piroplasms in erythrocytes. Tick collections were made concurrently from sampled animals to identify vector species. Epidemiological information including animal breed, age, sex, management system, and tick burden was recorded. Findings revealed an overall Theileria spp. prevalence of 26.8 percent. Young animals between one and three years of age showed the highest prevalence. Heavily tick-infested animals showed significantly higher Theileria spp. infection rates. Rhipicephalus appendiculatus and Amblyomma variegatum were the most frequently recovered tick species on positive animals. The study recommends strategic tick control using acaricides, breeding of tick-resistant cattle, and veterinary training in haemoparasite diagnosis for field veterinarians in Benue State. Keywords: theileriosis, cattle, Benue State, tick-borne, haemoparasite.