Epidemiology and control of bovine babesiosis in South Africa.

Babesiosis is the cause of serious economic losses in South Africa and involves most areas with an annual rainfall of more than 400 mm. Both Babesia bigemina and Babesia bovis are present and both are considered to be important. The vectors, distribution and factors influencing enzootic stability of both species are discussed. Except in some areas only marginally suitable for ticks, and where tick control alone may be adequate, control by immunisation is recommended. Short term prevention can be achieved by chemoprophylaxis.