Anasplasmois is caused by Anaplasmo marginale, a blood parasite. The parasite is transferred between animals by blood contamination, often caused by blood-sucking insects. It is common in the South and in some parts of the country, clinical anaplasmosis can occur year-round. The new Veterinary Feed Directive allows for treatment.
Source: Progressive Cattleman, November, 2016.
The FDA indicates 180 days will be the maximum length of time a VFD order can be effective. If chlortetracycline, the feed-grade antibiotic approved for anaplasmosis control, is assigned 180 days, some parts of the U.S. will require two VFD orders to responsibly meet the needs of cattle to control anaplasmosis in endemic areas.
INSIGHTS: In addition to this, Dr. Dee Griffin further clarifies prescriptions and orders and offers a tip to reduce the chance of disease transfer.