An outbreak of Psoroptic mange infestation and its management in re-introduced African Buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) at Umfurudzi Safari Area in Zimbabwe

Abstract

An outbreak of Psoroptic mange infestation and its management in re-introduced foot and mouth disease-free African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) at a safari area in Zimbabwe is described. Between 2012 and 2013, 170 buffaloes were re-introduced into Umfurudzi Safari Area, Shamva District of Zimbabwe. One cow exhibited non-pruritic, widespread alopecia all over its body and appeared to recover after being treated with injectable ivermectin acaricide. Subsequently, an outbreak of severe non-pruritic alopecia ensued in the buffalo herd at the onset of winter May 2013. Laboratory diagnosis confirmed Psoroptes mites infestation in one of five animals tested. Clinical mange was evident in 103 (81.7%, n= 126) of the animals captured and treated. The buffalo herd responded well to two treatment regimes. This incident highlights the need to include mange in the screening and prophylactic treatment regimes of translocated wildlife.