Confirmation of ehrlichiosis in a dog in Townsville

Following the confirmation of ehrlichiosis in a dog in Townsville, the CVO Biosecurity Queensland, Dr Allison Crook, urges vets to take the time to review the national veterinary guidelines on Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis. The guide includes useful information on clinical signs, samples and laboratory testing, transmission, treatment and prevention measures.

In early 2022, ehrlichiosis was confirmed in a dog in Mt. Isa that did not have a history of travel to areas where E canis was known to be active. Since this case, ongoing detections have occurred in dogs living in, or having travelled through, northwest Queensland. The latest confirmed case of ehrlichiosis in a dog in Townsville shows the disease may be more widespread in Queensland and highlights the need for all Queensland dog owners and veterinarians to be alert to this deadly disease.

For more information visit the AVA E.canis webpage.