🐪 Trypanosomiasis (surra) in camels
A blood parasite spread by biting flies: wasting, anaemia and less milk.
What is it?
Surra is caused by a blood parasite, Trypanosoma evansi, carried by biting flies such as horse flies. It is a major cause of wasting and lost production in camels.
Signs
- Intermittent fever and dullness.
- Wasting despite eating, and anaemia (pale membranes).
- Swelling under the belly and legs, less milk, and possible abortion.
How does it spread?
Biting flies carry blood from camel to camel, more so in the fly season and near water and crops.
Prevention
- Control flies around the herd and in their season.
- Blood-test camels that lose weight without a clear cause.
- Prevention and treatment as your vet advises for your area.
🚨 When to call the vet at once
A camel losing weight fast, an abortion, or clear swelling and anaemia.
📱 How Zajel helps
Log weights in Zajel to be warned when weight or milk drops, and record the blood test and treatment under Health.
This information is general. Diagnosis and doses always stay with your vet.
Sources: Merck Veterinary Manual · WOAH — World Organisation for Animal Health