Fading elk syndrome has long been associated with wapiti-type red deer hybrids farmed in New Zealand. The authors report on a case of naturally-acquired fading elk syndrome in a herd of 34 elk (Cervus elaphus) in Ames, Iowa, at the National Animal Disease Center.
Fading elk syndrome, or chronic ill-thrift of elk, is a disease associated with abomasal parasitism with Ostertagia species, of which elk appear to be particularly susceptible.”
Source: Frontiers in Veterinary Science, August 2020. Link.
INSIGHTS: Whether captive herds or herds being introduced to repopulate original habitat, fading elk syndrome shares Ostertagia sp. with domestic cattle and causes major production losses. One again, preventative measures in domestic elk and cattle herds can help avert morbidity and mortality.