Epidemiological determinants and economic impact of heartwater in livestock systems across Lephalale municipality, Limpopo, South Africa (2010–2022)

Résumé

Heartwater, caused by Ehrlichia ruminantium and transmitted by Amblyomma ticks, remains one of the most economically significant tick-borne diseases affecting livestock in South Africa. However, its long-term epidemiological and financial patterns remain insufficiently quantified. This study analyzed heartwater cases recorded between 2010 and 2022 to determine species-specific, seasonal, and temporal trends, and to estimate the associated economic burden of heartwater in Lephalale Municipality, Limpopo. The overall disease prevalence was 34.11%, confirming sustained endemicity throughout the study period. Logistic regression showed that sheep exhibited 69% higher odds of infection compared to cattle, while “other species” showed significantly lower risk. Seasonal patterns revealed heightened prevalence in summer and autumn, corresponding to periods of increased Amblyomma tick activity. Although significant year-to-year variability was observed, no linear temporal trend emerged, suggesting that irregular climatic fluctuations rather than progressive ecological change primarily shaped interannual patterns. The disease imposed substantial financial losses amounting to ZAR 765,720, with mortality contributing over 80% of total costs and cattle experiencing the greatest economic impact. These results demonstrate that heartwater dynamics are strongly influenced by species susceptibility, climatic seasonality, and variable environmental conditions, all of which intensify the financial burden on livestock systems. The findings underscore the need for strengthened integrated tick management, climate-informed surveillance, and species-targeted interventions.

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