How can cattle be kept tick free while immunity develops?
It takes time for the tick fever vaccines to work and field infections can occur during this period. Ideally, cattle should be kept tick-free before vaccination and for at least three weeks thereafter. This is almost impossible using the currently available chemicals as directed. ´Systemic´ tickicides (pour-ons and injectables) and tick development inhibitors do not kill larval ticks and so will not prevent the transmission of tick fever. They will, therefore, not protect cattle from tick fever before the vaccine takes effect. Sprays and dips may assist, but the duration of action is too short to reliably prevent transmission. Your local Biosecurity Queensland inspector can advise you on tickicides that may be suitable for general tick control in your area.
