Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) is a disease caused by a tick-borne bacteria called Ehrlichia canis. Transmission occurs only through infected brown dog ticks, which are present across northern Australia. The disease does not pass directly between infected dogs. 

Erlichiosis has been detected in Australia since May 2020. The AVA has collated resources for veterinarians about canine monocytic ehrlichiosis.

Resources from Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF)

In collaboration with stakeholders, DAFF has produced a guide for veterinarians on Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, as well as a series of factsheets for veterinarians, dog owners and the rescue, adoption and relocation of dogs in Australia.

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) is a disease caused by a tick-borne bacteria called Ehrlichia canis. Transmission occurs only through infected brown dog ticks, which are present across northern Australia. The disease does not pass directly between infected dogs.

Erlichiosis has been detected in Australia since May 2020, and has been confirmed across multiple regions of WA and the Northern Territory. Results from a national surveillance program has also confirmed the disease is also established in the far north of South Australia, in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands. More recently it has been identified in a dog in Mt Isa, Queensland. The AVA has previously reported on the impact CME is having on remote Aboriginal communities and their dogs.

The DAFF's resources are available on their website:

• Canine ehrlichiosis: a guide for veterinarians
• Ehrlichiosis: additional veterinary guidelines for managing CME in Australia
• Canine ehrlichiosis: guidelines for dog owners
• Canine ehrlichiosis: guidelines for rescue, adoption and relocation of dogs in Australia
• Ehrlichiosis coping with losing your pet
• Ehrlichiosis staying well as a veterinary professional

They are also available on the DAFF Animal Health webpage.