[3][4] They are also carriers of the spirochete bacteria Borrelia anserina which causes avian spirochetosis, one of the most severe diseases affecting the poultry industry.

[5] In addition to domestic fowl, A. persicus may also feed on humans, although an immunity has been acquired by some individuals.

[8] The lower United States especially sees a large distribution of this soft bodied tick due to the warm climate.

[9] Argasid (soft) ticks have a multihost life cycle meaning it has two or more nymphal stages that each require a blood meal.

Although domestic birds do not fully develop immunity against the paralysis inducing toxins produced, a weak protective mechanism may result from having been infected.

[17] Symptoms of avian spirochetosis include drop in egg production, depression, polydipsia (increased thirst), drowsiness, anorexia, loss of appetite, green diarrhea, ruffled feathers, pale combs, weight loss, paralysis of the legs and wings (flaccid paralysis), and abrupt death.

Incoordination first occurs followed by paralysis of the hind limbs, forelimbs, and then leads to respiratory distress and failure.

Hydration is also extremely important as death most often results due to dehydration from prolonged paralysis.