Prevalence and Distribution of Tick-Borne Protozoan Infections in Cattle in the South Rift Region of Kenya

Abstract

Background: Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) remain a major constraint to cattle production globally, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions where environmental conditions favor tick survival and proliferation. In sub-Saharan Africa, tick-borne protozoan infections such as babesiosis and theileriosis are among the leading causes of cattle morbidity, mortality, reduced productivity, and significant economic losses. In Kenya, despite long-term control efforts including acaricide use, vaccination, and veterinary extension services, TBDs continue to undermine livestock productivity, especially among smallholder dairy farmers. The South Rift region, covering Kericho and Bomet Counties, has experienced rapid expansion of dairy farming alongside increased use of exotic and crossbred cattle, which are highly susceptible to tick-borne infections.
Objective: This study assessed the prevalence, spatial distribution, and risk factors of major tick-borne protozoan infections in cattle in selected sub-counties of Kenya’s South Rift region.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 196 cattle from 100 farms in Kipkelion West, Bureti, and Bomet Central sub-counties. Blood samples were analyzed using Giemsa-stained thin blood smears and ELISA for microscopic and serological detection of infections, respectively. Tick vectors were collected and identified morphologically. Data on herd management and tick control practices were obtained through structured questionnaires administered to livestock owners. Analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests at a 95% confidence level.
Results: Microscopy revealed an overall prevalence of 29.6%, while ELISA detected a higher seroprevalence of 66.8%. Babesiosis was the most prevalent infection, followed by theileriosis. Significant spatial variation was observed across study sites (p < 0.05), with Bureti recording the highest prevalence. Adult cattle showed higher infection rates than calves, although the association was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Infections persisted despite widespread acaricide use, indicating ongoing transmission.
Conclusion: Tick-borne protozoan infections remain endemic in Kenya’s South Rift and continue to negatively impact cattle productivity. Strengthened integrated control strategies involving effective tick management, vaccination, surveillance, farmer education, and acaricide resistance monitoring are urgently required.