Strategies for the Control of Surra in Asia

Abstract

In　1995　and　1996　Trypanosoma evansi infection (surra) was reported from the following 11 countries in Asia: Bhutan, India, Indonesia, Iran, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines and Thailand. However, it appears that the disease has a much wider distribution in Asia. To improve a nationwide diagnostic capability, it is desirable to develop and widely apply simple and reliable diagnostic methods and field veterinarians should be well trained in correct diagnostic procedures. To backup such efforts both regional and national reference laboratories should be established. Research work should be promoted to investigate the pathogenicity of T. evansi strains in Asia, epidemic factors of T. evansi, the role of wild animals, economic impact of the disease, and the selection of the most cost-effective trypanocidal drugs to be used in Asia. To coordinate such activities, it is essential to establish a regionally coordinated programme on protozal diseases of animals in Asia.