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Okapi piroplasmosis
Piroplasmosis is a parasitic blood disease that can affect okapi, an animal close to the giraffe, native to the forests of central Africa. It is caused by tiny parasites, called piroplasms (of the genus Babesia or Theileria), transmitted by...
What is it?
Piroplasmosis is a parasitic blood disease that can affect okapi, an animal close to the giraffe, native to the forests of central Africa. It is caused by tiny parasites, called piroplasms (of the genus Babesia or Theileria), transmitted by ticks. These parasites destroy the animal's red blood cells, causing anemia that is sometimes severe. This disease is mainly documented in okapis kept in captivity in zoological parks, where veterinary monitoring makes it possible to diagnose it.
Key point
The okapi being an endangered species and poorly represented in zoological collections, any suspicion of piroplasmosis must be taken very seriously and managed urgently by a veterinary team specializing in exotic fauna.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Related signs — each one links to its page:
Clinical signs resemble those observed in other large herbivores affected by piroplasmosis. A fever, marked depression and loss of appetite are observed. \n\nThe mucous membranes (gums, around the eyes) become pale due to anemia, and can sometimes take on a yellowish tint (jaundice) if the destroyed red blood cells release too much bile pigment. \n\nUrine may darken. The animal loses weight and tires quickly, even with moderate efforts. In severe forms, the animal may collapse or remain lying down.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Causes and risk factors
The disease is caused by blood parasitic protozoa, of the genus Babesia or Theileria, which invade and destroy red blood cells. These parasites are transmitted by the bite of infected ticks, which act as a vector.
Okapi living in environments where ticks are present, or having contact with other animal species carrying infected ticks, are more exposed. Significant stress, linked for example to transport or a change of environment (such as during transfers between zoos), can weaken the immune defenses and promote the clinical expression of the disease in an animal already carrying the parasite. Young animals and weakened individuals are generally more vulnerable.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
The veterinarian relies on the clinical signs (fever, pallor, jaundice) associated with a blood test. Microscopic examination of a blood smear sometimes allows you to directly visualize the parasites inside the red blood cells. More in-depth blood tests (molecular biology, serology) can be used to confirm the diagnosis and precisely identify the species of parasite involved.
Treatment
Treatment is based on specific antiparasitic drugs active against piroplasms, prescribed and administered only by a veterinarian given the narrow therapeutic margin of these products in exotic species. Supportive treatment is often associated: fluids to combat dehydration, and in severe cases, blood transfusion to correct anemia.
Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.
Prevention
Prevention is primarily based on the fight against ticks: regular external antiparasitic treatments, frequent inspection of the animal's skin and environmental management to limit the presence of ticks (maintenance of enclosures, pastures). \n\nQuarantine and rigorous health control are recommended when introducing a new animal or before any transfer between establishments.
Possible complications
Severe anemia can lead to multiple organ failure, particularly the kidneys and liver. In vulnerable subjects, the disease can be fatal if not treated quickly.
When to see a veterinarian
The okapi shows unusual fatigue or refuses to move.\nThe mucous membranes appear pale or yellowish.\nThe animal has a fever or loses its appetite.\nThe urine appears abnormally dark.\nThe animal has visible ticks on the skin.
Prognosis
The prognosis depends on the speed of treatment and the severity of the anemia. If detected early and treated by an experienced veterinarian, the disease can be overcome. In the absence of treatment, the outcome can be serious, even fatal, due to the rarity of this species and the relative fragility of individuals in captivity.
Frequently asked questions
Is okapi piroplasmosis transmissible to humans?
No, this disease is not considered transmissible to humans. It is transmitted only by ticks between animals.
How does an okapi get piroplasmosis?
By the bite of a tick carrying the parasite. The tick becomes infected by biting an already infected animal, then transmits the parasite during a subsequent blood meal.
Can you vaccinate an okapi against piroplasmosis?
There is no vaccine available for this disease in okapi. Prevention essentially involves fighting ticks.
Can a cured okapi get sick again?
Yes, an animal that has been infected can remain a carrier of the parasite without visible signs, and develop the disease again in the event of stress or a drop in immunity.
References
WOAH — Organisation mondiale de la santé animale (ex-OIE)
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 11 August 2026
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