AVA collecting data on tick paralysis cases in ACT and surrounding regions

There had been suggestion of “uptick” in the incidence of companion animals affected by Ixodes holocyclus (the paralysis tick) in the ACT.

The AVA ACT Division Committee determined it would be very helpful if veterinarians in the ACT and surrounding region pooled basic data through an ongoing survey about their case numbers and this was made available to all practices in the area.

To facilitate this effort, the AVA have developed the ACT Tick Survey. This ACT Tick Survey is designed to compile and provide continuous insight into the frequency of tick paralysis cases across the Canberra region. The cumulative data will be shared periodically through the AVA ACT Division newsletter, offering valuable information to all veterinary practices within the ACT and surrounding districts.

Whilst it is too soon to determining if there are more tick affected pets in Canberra, it is a timely reminder to encourage clients to protect their pets. The AVA VetVoice provides a publicly available articles and advise on preventing ticks.

Please note the University of Queensland is requesting specimens of ticks for geographical mapping tick species - simple questionnaire and relevant details available at this link.