Training Workshop on Arthropods and Arbo Diseases in Livestock held at UAF

A training workshop on arthropods and arbo diseases in livestock was organized by the Department of Parasitology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (UAF). The workshop was part of a research project led by Professor Dr. Muhammad Sohail Sajid, Chairman of the Department, and financially supported by the Endowment Fund Secretariat. The event focused on understanding arthropods, their role as disease vectors, arthropod control methods, and the latest research in veterinary parasitology. Experts speically focused on the early diagnosis and advanced tools to revent arthropod-borne diseases in livestock.

Faculty of Veterinary Science UAF 

Arthropods and Their Role in Livestock Health

Arthropods are a group of invertebrate animals that include insects, ticks, mites, and lice. These organisms are significant in veterinary science because they can transmit numerous diseases that affect livestock health and productivity. These diseases are called arthropod-borne diseases or Arbo diseases. Arthropods act as vectors, carrying pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites from one host to another. Some also directly damage animals by feeding on their blood or skin, causing irritation, wounds, and secondary infections.

Common arthropods affecting livestock include:

• Ticks
• Flies
• Lice
• Mites
• Mosquitoes

The economic losses due to arthropod infestations are immense. The arbo diseases result in reduced milk production, slow weight gain, disturbed reproduction, and increased veterinary costs. Understanding of the arthropods, their biology, seasonal activity, and habitats is effective for effective control.

Abstract Book and Report on Persaitology Conference 

Expert Insights on Arbo Diseases in Livestock

At the beginning of the workshop, Professor Dr. Sohail Sajid emphasized the importance of arthropod control in maintaining animal health and farm profitability. He highlighted that controlling these vectors is key to improving livestock productivity and reducing disease burden in Pakistan’s dairy and beef sectors.

Prof Dr. Shahid Mahmood, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Science, discussed national and international research trends in arthropod-borne diseases. He encouraged young scientists to explore innovative control strategies and molecular approaches for early disease detection.

The Chief Guest, Professor Dr. Mazhar Ayaz, Vice Chancellor of Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (CUVAS), Bahawalpur, gave a comprehensive overview of arthropod-borne diseases in livestock. He discussed the current national programs working on vector surveillance and control. Moreover, he emphasized the need for community-based and region-specific interventions, especially in rural livestock systems.

Dr. Muhammad Saqib, Chairman CMS, shared detailed laboratory findings on dangerous arthropod-borne diseases and their impact on livestock productivity. He pointed out that molecular diagnostic methods are revolutionizing the detection and management of these diseases, allowing for more accurate and rapid identification of pathogens.

Dr. Ziauddin presented the outcomes of his research on integrated arthropod control, including the use of biological agents, environmental management, and safe chemical applications. He stressed the importance of sustainable vector management practices that minimize resistance and protect ecological balance.

Modern Tools in Research on Arbo Diseases in Livestock

A unique aspect of the workshop was the practical demonstration session by Dr. Abdullah and Dr. Zeeshan, who trained participants in using QGIS software for disease mapping and Participatory Epidemiology tools for field data collection. These digital and participatory methods help visualize disease distribution, monitor outbreaks, and design targeted control strategies. Such tools are becoming essential in veterinary epidemiology and one-health research.

Insects and Fly Control in Dairy Farms 

Participants and Institutional Collaboration in Workshop

The workshop drew participation from postgraduate scholars and researchers from various universities, including UVAS Lahore, CUVAS Bahawalpur, Veterinary College Jhang, Veterinary College Narowal, and GC University Faisalabad. The presence of these institutions demonstrated strong inter-university collaboration in advancing parasitology research and capacity building in Pakistan’s veterinary education system.

Various Arbo Diseases in Livestock

Some of the major arthropod-borne diseases in livestock include:

• Tick-Borne Diseases
  • Theileriosis (caused by Theileria annulata)
  • Babesiosis (caused by Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina)
  • Anaplasmosis (caused by Anaplasma marginale)
    Ticks act as vectors for these protozoan and bacterial diseases, causing fever, anemia, and significant losses in milk yield and weight gain.

• Fly-Borne Diseases
  • Trypanosomiasis or Surra (transmitted by Tabanid and Stomoxys flies)
  • Myiasis (caused by the larvae of blowflies)
    These lead to weakness, decreased fertility, and severe skin damage, particularly in tropical regions.

• Mite and Louse Infestations
  • Mange and Dermatitis caused by mites such as Sarcoptes and Psoroptes
  • Louse infestations that result in itching, poor coat condition, and reduced growth rates.

• Mosquito-Borne Diseases
  • Rift Valley Fever and Bluetongue, both viral infections transmitted by mosquitoes and biting midges.
    These diseases can cause abortions, high mortality, and trade restrictions on animal movement.

Thieliereiasis in Tropical Regions 

Control and Prevention of Arthropod-Borne Diseases

Effective arthropod control involves an integrated approach. It should cover management, chemical, and biological methods. Some key preventive measures for arthropod-borne diseases in livestock discussed during the workshop included:

1. Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
   Environmental sanitation, animal cleanliness, and rotational grazing (in case) to reduce arthropod breeding sites.
2. Chemical Control:
   Judicious use of acaricides, insecticides, and repellents on animals and in farm and surroundings. However, excessive or improper use can lead to resistance.
3. Biological Control:
   Utilizing natural predators (e.g., predatory beetles and fungi) to suppress tick and fly populations sustainably.
4. Vaccination and Chemotherapy:
   Development of anti-tick vaccines and timely treatment with anti-parasitic drugs to control infections like babesiosis and theileriosis.
5. Molecular Diagnosis and Surveillance:
   Advanced diagnostic tools for early detection and epidemiological monitoring of vector-borne diseases.
6. Education and Awareness:
   Farmer training programs and extension services to promote hygienic housing, manure management, and animal welfare practices.

Importance of Arthropod Control

The training workshop at UAF was a significant step toward developing skilled researchers and veterinarians capable of combating arthropod-borne diseases in livestock. By focusing on advanced diagnostic techniques, data-driven analysis, and sustainable control methods, the event highlighted the growing importance of parasitology in ensuring animal health and food security.

Various Aspects of Deworming in Livestock 

Effective control of arthropods is not only crucial for improving animal welfare and productivity but also vital for protecting rural livelihoods and the national economy. Continued research, education, and awareness will play a key role in reducing the burden of vector-borne diseases in Pakistan’s livestock industry.

Editor In Chief

Dr. Jassar Aftab is a qualified Veterinarian having expertise in veterinary communication. He is a renowned veterinary Journalist of Pakistan. He is veterinary columnist, veterinary writer and veterinary analyst. He is the author of three books. He has written a number of articles and columns on different topics related to livestock, dairy, poultry, wildlife, fisheries, food security and different aspects of animal sciences and veterinary education.

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