WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) - Theileria orientalis Ikeda, which causes anemia and other serious health issues in cattle, has been found in Kansas, according to the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. The new red blood cell parasite has been diagnosed in calves imported to Kansas from the east. KSVDL says the disease is primarily spread through multi-use needles and insects, with the Asian longhorned tick identified as the primary vector. The tick has not been found in Kansas but has been detected in Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. "The environmental conditions in eastern Kansas are suitable for the Asian longhorned tick," said Gregg Hanzlicek, KSVDL associate director and professor of diagnostic medicine/pathobiology. "If it’s not here already, this tick will likely be in Kansas in the near future, and with the tick comes Theileria." Cattle infected with Theileria orientalis Ikeda may exhibit a variety of clinical symptoms, including: Anorexia (loss of appetite) Lethargy Difficulty breathing (dyspnea) Yellowing of the mucous membranes (icterus) Sudden death in severe cases KSVDL urges livestock producers to be vigilant and consider this emerging pathogen if these signs are observed in cattle KSVDL has also posted a webinar on the parasite. Producers who need further guidance should contact KSVDL Client Care at 866-512-5650. For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track 3 Weather app by clicking here.