1
|
Dos Santos JC, Garcia MV, Duarte PO, Oshiro LM, Martins FI, de Oliveira Souza Higa L, de Lima ÁA, Andreotti R. Babesia bigemina (smith and Kilbourne, 1893) detection in Amblyomma sculptum (Berlese, 1888) ticks in the Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. Parasitol Int 2024; 102:102912. [PMID: 38852768 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2024.102912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Ticks parasitize various hosts, including humans, and are known to transmit pathogens that can be harmful not only to animals but also to humans. To evaluate the possible presence of pathogens in ticks, we aimed to collect and identify tick fauna specimens in Lagoa Comprida Municipal Natural Park, an anthropogenic urban area located in Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. A total of 1216 ticks, of which 51.2% were Amblyomma sculptum, 1.2% were Amblyomma dubitatum, and 41% were Amblyomma spp. were collected. These results show that the prevalence of A. sculptum is significantly higher than that of A. dubitatum across all four seasons. Molecular analyses revealed positive samples for the genus Babesia, including the confirmation of Babesia bigemina in an A. sculptum specimen, marking the first record of this relationship. This unexpected finding demands greater attention and deeper analysis in the context of the epidemiology of tick-borne diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joelly Corrêa Dos Santos
- The Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, - UFMS, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil; Tick Biology Laboratory, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Álvaro Aragão de Lima
- The Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, - UFMS, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil; Institute of Biosciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso Sul - UFMS, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Renato Andreotti
- The Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, - UFMS, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil; Tick Biology Laboratory, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sohn-Hausner N, Kmetiuk LB, Paula WVDF, de Paula LGF, Krawczak FDS, Biondo AW. One Health Approach on Ehrlichia canis: Serosurvey of Owners and Dogs, Molecular Detection in Ticks, and Associated Risk Factors in Tick-Infested Households of Southern Brazil. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024; 24:338-350. [PMID: 38502822 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Ehrlichia canis has been the main hemopathogen affecting domestic dogs in Brazil. Even though tick-infested dogs may lead to household infestation and predispose human exposure and public health concern, no comprehensive study has surveyed humans, dogs, and environmental ticks altogether. Materials and Methods: Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess tick-infested households, identify tick species, perform serological (immunofluorescence assay) and molecular (PCR and q-PCR) detection of Ehrlichia in ticks, in the eighth biggest metropolitan area of Brazil. Results: Between 2007 and 2020, 233/5973 (3.9%) out of all complaints were from tick-infested households of 200 different addresses. Overall, 370/552 (67.0%) ticks were collected and identified as adult and 182/552 (33.0%) as immature forms of Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. complex; a single tick from one owner, a female tick of Amblyomma sculptum; and 395 ticks from dogs, 319/395 (80.8%) adult and 72/395 (18.2%) immature forms of Rhipicephalus spp., and 4/395 (1.01%) female Amblyomma aureolatum. Overall, 2/135 (1.5%) owners and 13/136 (9.6%) dogs were seropositive for E. canis. The DNA of Anaplasmataceae family was molecularly detected in 16/50 (32.0%) R. sanguineus s.l. As expected, the number of monthly tick infestation complaints were directly associated, and mean (p = 0.01), maximum (p = 0.011), and minimum (p = 0.008) temperature were statistically significant and had a low positive correlation (0.24, 0.23, and 0.24, respectively). In addition, complaints were highly associated to all socioeconomic variables (p < 0.001), with the exception of the presence of vacant lots. Conclusions: Despite low samplings and human negative results, areas with low-income with adequate temperature and urban agglomerations have been shown to be associated risks for tick infestations, predisposing tick-borne diseases. In conclusion, monitoring should always be conducted in such areas, including One Health approach with serosurvey of owners and dogs, along with identification and molecular screening of ticks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natacha Sohn-Hausner
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Graduate College of Cell and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sousa ACP, Suzin A, da Silva Rodrigues V, Rezende LM, da Costa Maia R, Vieira RBK, Szabó MPJ. Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and rickettsiae associated with wild boars in a rural area of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 50:101016. [PMID: 38644046 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.101016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Wild boars or feral pigs are classified by the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Resources (IBAMA) in "Category I of invasive exotic species". They cause economic losses, harm the environment, serve as hosts and reservoirs for several zoonotic disease agents, and provide a blood meal for tick species that act as vectors for zoonotic diseases. The objective of this study was to identify tick species on wild boars, assess host-seeking ticks in the related environment, and identify other potential tick hosts coexisting with wild boars on a farm located in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. Additionally, the study aimed to determine the presence of rickettsiae in these arthropods and assess the exposure of wild boars to rickettsiae species from the Spotted Fever Group and Rickettsia bellii through serology. A total of 3585 host-seeking ticks from three species (Amblyomma sculptum - 41.58%; Amblyomma dubitatum - 0.39% and Rhipicephalus microplus - 0.05%) were collected in the environment and A. sculptum was the most abundant species. Thirty-one wild boars were evaluated, resulting in the collection of 415 ticks, all of which were A. sculptum. Rickettsia DNA was not detected in samples of A. sculptum and R. microplus from the environment or in A. sculptum ticks from wild boars. However, all A. dubitatum ticks (n = 14) had Rickettsia bellii DNA confirmed by the species-specific PCR protocol. Out of the 31 serum samples from wild boars, 24 reacted with at least one Rickettsia antigen. Among these, seven individuals exhibited a reaction to a probable homologous antigen (PHA) of three rickettsiae species: R. rickettsii (n = 3), R. amblyommatis (n = 3) and R. rhipicephali (n = 1). Despite the high prevalence of seroreactivity, titers were low, indicating limited exposure to Rickettsia spp. Camera traps generated 874 animal records, capturing a total of 1688 individuals. At least 11 species of birds and 14 species of mammals (12 wild and two domestic) shared the environment with wild boars and potentially shared ticks with them. These findings provide baseline information for understanding the sharing of ticks and tick-borne pathogens between wild boars and other animals within the Cerrado biome. Further studies are necessary to monitor the potential and actual risk of wild boars to harbor infected ticks and their role in the transmission and maintenance cycle of Rickettsia spp.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Prado Sousa
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Parasitologia Aplicadas, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Adriane Suzin
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vinícius da Silva Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Parasitologia Aplicadas, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Laís Miguel Rezende
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo da Costa Maia
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Parasitologia Aplicadas, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Raíssa Brauner Kamla Vieira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Clínica e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Matias Pablo Juan Szabó
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Molazadeh S, Tukmechi A, Hadian M, Dalir-Naghadeh B. Phylogenetic analysis of Ehrlichia species isolated from horses and dogs in Iran. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 103:102080. [PMID: 37913628 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2023.102080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the prevalence and phylogenetic analysis of Ehrlichia spp. in horses and dogs in Iran. Blood samples were collected from 400 animals, including 200 horses and 200 dogs, from five different provinces in Iran. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect Ehrlichia spp. based on amplification of the 16S rRNA gene. The semi-nested PCR method was used to amplify the dsb, TRP36, and gltA genes. The results showed that 4.5 % of the samples (3 % horses and 6 % dogs) were positive for Ehrlichia sp. The highest prevalence was observed in Kerman and Khuzestan, while the lowest was found in West Azerbaijan, Golestan, and Mazandaran. The study suggests that the populations of dogs and horses in the country should be considered important factors in the epidemiology of ehrlichiosis. Phylogenetic analysis based on the dsb and TRP36 genes revealed that the prevalent species were E. canis and E. ruminantium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siamak Molazadeh
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran.
| | - Amir Tukmechi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran.
| | - Mojtaba Hadian
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran.
| | - Bahram Dalir-Naghadeh
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
da Gama BC, Martins TF, Labruna MB, Vieira RFDC, de Almeida JC. First report of Amblyomma sculptum ( Amblyomma cajennense complex) in a Brazilian state classified as a silent area for human rickettsiosis. Vet World 2023; 16:2200-2204. [PMID: 38152277 PMCID: PMC10750745 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.2200-2204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Studies on ticks of public health concern in equine husbandry are scarce in the Northeastern region of Brazil. This study aimed to investigate the presence of ticks on horses in the State of Alagoas, which is classified as a silent area for human rickettsiosis. Materials and Methods Ticks infesting horses were collected using anatomical tweezers or a commercial hook and kept in ethanol-labeled tubes for taxonomic identification. Results A total of 2,238 ticks were found. Ticks were identified as 2,215 (98.89%, 95% CI: 98.41-99.28) Dermacentor nitens, 19 (0.98%, 95% CI: 0.05-1.38) Amblyomma sculptum, and 4 (0.18%; 95% CI: 0.007-0.46) Rhipicephalus microplus. Conclusion This is the first study to report A. sculptum and D. nitens in the State of Alagoas. The presence of A. sculptum should draw the attention of public health managers once Alagoas State is considered a silent area for rickettsial diseases, which means the absence of local surveillance programs for these pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Costa da Gama
- Centro de Engenharia e Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Viçosa, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Thiago Fernandes Martins
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto Pasteur, Área Técnica de Doenças Vinculadas a Vetores e Hospedeiros Intermediários, Secretaria de Estado da Saúde de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Bahia Labruna
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael Felipe da Costa Vieira
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Services, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Center for Computational Intelligence to Predict Health and Environmental Risks, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pereira MR, Trein CR, Webster A, Dallagnol B, Gonchoroski GZ, Pellegrini DP, Doyle R, Klafke G, Reck J. Comparison of Seroprevalence and Identification of Risk Factors for Theileria equi in Horses From Vector-Free and Infested Areas in Southern Brazil. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 126:104241. [PMID: 36773853 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
The apicomplexan hemoprotozoan Theileria equi is a tick-borne pathogen that causes disease in equids, and together with Babesia caballi, causes equine piroplasmosis (EP). Many ticks are associated with EP around the world, and in South America three species may be related: Dermacentor nitens, Amblyomma sculptum, and Rhipicephalus microplus, as they are commonly found in horses. Among the species cited above, only R. microplus is found in Rio Grande do Sul state, Southern Brazil. In addition, this state has the only area legally free of R. microplus in Brazil. This study aimed to compare the seroprevalence for T. equi on farms located in a tick-free area (23 farms, 215 horses) and a tick-infested (25 farms, 141 horses) adjacent areas, as well as to identify potential risk factors for exposure to T. equi. Blood was collected from 356 horses from both areas, and later an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to detect anti-T. equi antibodies. Besides the blood collection, questionnaires and interviews were conducted in an attempt to identify potential risk factors. The R. microplus-free zone had 6% seropositive horses against 70% in the tick-infested zone. Previous observation of ticks on horses of the herd increased four times the odds of a horse to be seropositive for T. equi, and by three times if ticks were observed on cattle which share paddocks with horses on the farm. The results showed a large difference in T. equi seroprevalence between tick-infested and free areas, and also emphasized the relevance of R. microplus in the epidemiology of T. equi. The study also reveals the potential of the establishment of a T. equi-free zone for horse breeding in Southern Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rocha Pereira
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Cristina Rodrigues Trein
- Departamento de Vigilância e Defesa Sanitária Animal (DDA), Secretaria da Agricultura, Pecuária e Desenvolvimento Rural (SEAPDR) do Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Vitória do Palmar, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Anelise Webster
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Bruno Dallagnol
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Greice Zorzato Gonchoroski
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Débora Payão Pellegrini
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Pampa (UNIPAMPA), Uruguaiana, RS Brazil
| | - Rovaina Doyle
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Klafke
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - José Reck
- Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Neves LC, Paula WVDF, de Paula LGF, da Silva BBF, Dias SA, Pereira BG, Silva BSA, Sevá ADP, Dantas-Torres F, Labruna MB, Krawczak FDS. Detection of Rickettsia spp. in Animals and Ticks in Midwestern Brazil, Where Human Cases of Rickettsiosis Were Reported. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13081288. [PMID: 37106851 PMCID: PMC10135036 DOI: 10.3390/ani13081288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Brazilian spotted fever (BSF) is the most important tick-borne diseases affecting humans in Brazil. Cases of BSF have recently been reported in the Goiás state, midwestern Brazil. All cases have been confirmed by reference laboratories by seroconversion to Rickettsia rickettsii antigens. Because serological cross-reactions among different rickettsial species that belong to the spotted fever group (SFG) are common, the agent responsible for BSF cases in Goiás remains unknown. From March 2020 to April 2022, ticks and plasma were collected from dogs, horses and capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris), and from the vegetation in an area where BSF cases have been reported and two areas under epidemiological surveillance in Goiás. Horses were infested by Amblyomma sculptum, Dermacentor nitens and Rhipicephalus microplus; dogs by Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.), Amblyomma ovale and A. sculptum, and capybaras by A. sculptum and Amblyomma dubitatum. Adults of A. sculptum, A. dubitatum, Amblyomma rotundatum and immature stages of A. sculptum and A. dubitatum, and Amblyomma spp. were collected from the vegetation. DNA of Rickettsia that did not belong to the SFG was detected in A. dubitatum, which was identified by DNA sequencing as Rickettsia bellii. Seroreactivity to SFG and Rickettsia bellii antigens was detected in 25.4% (42/165) of dogs, 22.7% (10/44) of horses and 41.2% (7/17) of capybaras, with higher titers for R. bellii in dogs and capybaras. The seropositivity of animals to SFG Rickettsia spp. antigens demonstrates the circulation of SFG rickettsiae in the region. Further research is needed to fully determine the agent responsible for rickettsiosis cases in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucianne Cardoso Neves
- Veterinary and Animal Science School, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-220, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Sarah Alves Dias
- Veterinary and Animal Science School, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-220, Brazil
| | - Brenda Gomes Pereira
- Veterinary and Animal Science School, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-220, Brazil
| | - Bruno Sérgio Alves Silva
- Directorate of Surveillance in Zoonoses, Superintendence of Health Surveillance, Municipal Health Department, Goiânia 74891-135, Brazil
| | - Anaiá da Paixão Sevá
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Santa Cruz State University, Ilhéus 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Filipe Dantas-Torres
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife 50740-465, Brazil
| | - Marcelo B Labruna
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Weber N, Trujillo-Trujillo J, Krücken J, Castillo F, Feldmeier H, Sunderkötter C. Tick bite-associated chronic pruritic lesions in an Afro-descendant population in the Cauca Department, Colombia. II. Epidemiological risk factors. Int J Dermatol 2023; 62:e341-e342. [PMID: 36919953 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.16632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Weber
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Halle, Halle, Germany
| | | | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Hermann Feldmeier
- Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charite-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cord Sunderkötter
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Halle, Halle, Germany.,Department of Translational Dermatoinfectiology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Duncan KT, Sundstrom KD, Hunt D, Lineberry MW, Grant A, Little SE. Survey on the Presence of Equine Tick-Borne Rickettsial Infections in Southcentral United States. J Equine Vet Sci 2022; 118:104135. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.104135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
10
|
Kakimori MTA, Barros LD, Collere FCM, Ferrari LDR, de Matos A, Lucas JI, Coradi VS, Mongruel ACB, Aguiar DM, Machado RZ, André MR, Vieira TSWJ, Vieira RFC. First molecular detection of Mycoplasma ovis in horses from Brazil. Acta Trop 2022; 237:106697. [PMID: 36162457 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the occurrence of hemoplasmas and tick-borne pathogens (TBP) (Theileria equi, Babesia caballi, and Ehrlichia sp.) in horses and ticks' salivary glands, and determine the factors associated with exposure/infection in a rural settlement in southern Brazil. Blood samples from 22 horses were screened for anti-T. equi and anti-Ehrlichia sp. antibodies by an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) assays. Samples were also tested by PCR assays for T. equi and B. caballi (18S rRNA and rap-1 genes, respectively), hemoplasmas (16S rRNA gene), and Ehrlichia sp. (dsb gene). Ticks were removed from the animals (inspection) and the environment (flannel trawling and dry ice traps), and morphologically identified. Additionally, salivary glands DNA was extracted from 28 adult ticks infesting the animals and four nymphs from the environment, and further screened for Ehrlichia sp. and hemotropic Mycoplasma sp. Anti-T. equi and anti-Ehrlichia sp. antibodies were detected in 40.91% (nine/22; 95% CI: 23.26-61.27) and 31.81% (seven/22; 95% CI: 16.36-52.68) horses, respectively. Theileria equi, B. caballi, and hemotropic Mycoplasma sp. DNA was detected in 59.09% (13/22), 4.55% (one/22), and 50% (11/22) horses, respectively. All horses tested negative in the PCR for Ehrlichia sp. All sequences showed ≥99% identity with multiple T. equi, B. caballi, and Mycoplasma ovis sequences deposited in GenBank database. Adult ticks were identified as Dermacentor nitens (44/47; 93.62%) and Rhipicephalus microplus (three/47; 6.38%). Ticks' salivary glands were negative for Ehrlichia sp., while 39.29% from adults (11/28) and 50% from nymphs (two/four) from the environment were positive for hemotropic Mycoplasma sp. This is the first report of M. ovis infection in horses from Brazil and the first detection of hemoplasma DNA in salivary glands of D. nitens and R. microplus ticks. Further studies are needed to elucidate the vector competence of ticks to transmit hemoplasmas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica T A Kakimori
- Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, Campus Agrárias, 1540, Juvevê, Curitiba, PR 80035-050, Brazil; Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
| | - Luiz D Barros
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
| | - Flávia C M Collere
- Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, Campus Agrárias, 1540, Juvevê, Curitiba, PR 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Larissa D R Ferrari
- Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, Campus Agrárias, 1540, Juvevê, Curitiba, PR 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Aldair de Matos
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
| | - Juliana I Lucas
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vanessa S Coradi
- Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, Campus Agrárias, 1540, Juvevê, Curitiba, PR 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Anna C B Mongruel
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Teriogenologia e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Daniel M Aguiar
- Laboratório de Virologia e Rickettsioses, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Rosangela Z Machado
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Teriogenologia e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Marcos R André
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Teriogenologia e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Thállitha S W J Vieira
- Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, Campus Agrárias, 1540, Juvevê, Curitiba, PR 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Rafael F C Vieira
- Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, Campus Agrárias, 1540, Juvevê, Curitiba, PR 80035-050, Brazil; Global One Health initiative (GOHi), The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
de Paula LGF, do Nascimento RM, Franco ADO, Szabó MPJ, Labruna MB, Monteiro C, Krawczak FDS. Seasonal dynamics of Amblyomma sculptum: a review. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:193. [PMID: 35668507 PMCID: PMC9169286 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05311-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amblyomma sculptum is a hard tick that is associated with domestic animals and the transmission of Brazilian spotted fever. This association has motivated several field studies on this ixodid tick within its distribution area in South America. Thorough knowledge of the seasonal dynamics of A. sculptum in different ecological scenarios is required in order to better understand the biological characteristics of this tick and develop techniques for the control and prevention of diseases transmitted by this vector. In this article, we systematically review the seasonal dynamics of A. sculptum and tick collection methodology. METHODS A systematic search of the Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed and Scielo databases was carried out for articles (including dissertations and theses) on the population dynamics of A. sculptum. The inclusion criterion was the report of seasonal dynamic studies on A. sculptum through surveys carried out for at least 1 year with, as methodology, tick collection in the environment and/or tick count/collection on A. sculptum primary hosts (horses or capybaras). Studies carried out before the reclassification of Amblyomma cajennense sensu lato in 2014, which referred to Amblyomma cajennense in areas where it is currently known that only A. sculptum occurs, were also included. Articles meeting the inclusion criterion, but not available in online databases, were also added based on the authors' experience on the subject. Sixteen articles and one thesis were selected for inclusion in this systematic review. RESULTS Most of the studies were carried out in the southeastern region of Brazil, with a few also carried out in the northeast, center-west and south of Brazil and northwest of Argentina. Five techniques/methods were applied across these studies: CO2 traps, dragging, flagging, visual searches and tick counting on animals, used alone or in combination. CONCLUSION Seasonal dynamics of A. sculptum was found to be similar in almost all of the areas studied, with larvae predominating during the autumn, nymphs in the winter and adults in the spring and summer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luiza Gabriella Ferreira de Paula
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Goiás (UFG), Avenida Esperança, s/n, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, Goiás, 74690-900, Brazil
| | - Rafael Moreira do Nascimento
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Artur de Oliveira Franco
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, 74.605-050, Brazil
| | - Matias Pablo Juan Szabó
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Bahia Labruna
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Caio Monteiro
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Goiás (UFG), Avenida Esperança, s/n, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, Goiás, 74690-900, Brazil.,Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, 74.605-050, Brazil
| | - Felipe da Silva Krawczak
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Goiás (UFG), Avenida Esperança, s/n, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, Goiás, 74690-900, Brazil. .,Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Avenida Esperança, s/n, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, Goiás, 74.690-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Peckle M, Pires MS, Dos Santos TM, Roier ECR, da Silva CB, Vilela JAR, Paulino PG, Santos HA, Massard CL. Molecular investigation of Babesia caballi in horses from the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Epidemiological aspects associated with the infection. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 30:100709. [PMID: 35431067 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The epidemiological aspects of Babesia caballi infection were evaluated in 516 horse samples from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The presence and infestation level of ticks on horses, breed conditions, and animal management were evaluated on each farm through an epidemiological questionnaire. The gene that codes for rhoptry-associated protein-1 (RAP-1) of B. caballi was amplified by nested PCR (nPCR). Among the horses sampled, 17.2% (n = 89/516) presented B. caballi DNA. The characterized samples showed 99-100% similarity with other isolates of B. caballi based on the RAP-1 gene, available in GenBank. In the final logistic regression model, the variables associated with B. caballi infection in horses were as follows: age below two years (OR = 3.33; IC = 1.7-6.5), farms located in low altitudes (OR = 3.52; IC = 1.7-7.3) and Dermacentor nitens infestation (OR = 1.91; IC = 1.1-3.4). Furthermore, a high level of D. nitens infestation in horses was also a factor associated with positivity for B. caballi (OR = 2.11; IC = 1.25-3.54). In summary, young horses bred in low altitude regions characterized with high temperatures, and infested by D. nitens, mainly with a higher level of infestation, are more likely to be infected by B. caballi. This epidemiological study provides statical evidence that the D. nitens tick play a role as the biological vector of B. caballi in the studied region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maristela Peckle
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Marcus Sandes Pires
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Tiago Marques Dos Santos
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Erica Cristina Rocha Roier
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Severino Sombra University, Av. Expedicionário Osvaldo de Almeida Ramos, 280 - Centro, Vassouras - RJ, 27700-000, Brazil
| | - Claudia Bezerra da Silva
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Joice Aparecida Resende Vilela
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Severino Sombra University, Av. Expedicionário Osvaldo de Almeida Ramos, 280 - Centro, Vassouras - RJ, 27700-000, Brazil; Technical Assistance and Rural Extension Company (EMATER), Estrada RJ 99, Km 8, Itaguai, RJ 23855-120, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Gonzaga Paulino
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| | - Huarrisson Azevedo Santos
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil.
| | - Carlos Luiz Massard
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), BR 465, Km 7, Seropedica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dynamics of Theileria equi Infection in Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus during the Parasitic Phase in a Chronically Infected Horse. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11050525. [PMID: 35631046 PMCID: PMC9142995 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11050525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental studies have demonstrated that Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus transmits Theileria equi to horses. However, the degree and dynamics of this protozoan infection in the vector’s organism have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the infection rate and parasitic load of T. equi in R. (B.) microplus, the infection dynamics in this arthropod during experimental infestation in a horse chronically infected with T. equi, and to evaluate the trans-stadial and intrastadial transmission competence of T. equi by R. (B.) microplus. The experimental infestation period of R. (B.) microplus on the horse was 33 days, but males were found on the animal up to 60 days post-infestation. After the fifth day post-infestation, ticks and equine blood were collected every two days. Whole ticks from the same developmental stage collected in the same day were pooled. Adult ticks were dissected to extract salivary glands and gut. DNA extraction was performed for all the samples, and they were then submitted to qPCRs for T. equi diagnosis. Freshly molted nymphs collected as larvae in the horse and freshly molted males and females collected as nymphs in the horse showed equal to or greater than 75% positivity for T. equi, indicating a strong possibility of trans-stadial transmission. The longest permanence of the male ticks on the horse associated with the high positivity rate of this type of sample for T. equi indicate that the male may play a role in the intrastadial transmission of T. equi to infection-free horses. The salivary glands displayed 77.78% positivity for T. equi and presented a higher infection rate at the end of the experimental period (100% from 29 to 33 days post-infection). This study shows that R. (B.) microplus has high T. equi infection rates and that the infection rate and parasitic load increased over the experimental period. These findings confirm the importance of chronically infected horses with T. equi as a source of infection for R. (B.) microplus.
Collapse
|
14
|
Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) on marsh deer (Blastocerus dichotomus) at a conservation center: infestation and Rickettsia parkeri infection dynamics along nine years. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 12:101826. [PMID: 34592675 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this work was to evaluate the relationship between the populations of the ticks Amblyomma triste Koch, 1844, Rhipicephalus microplus (Canestrini, 1888), Amblyomma sculptum Berlese, 1888, the pathogenic bacteria Rickettsia parkeri and a marsh deer (Blastocerus dichotomus) population after its removal from a pristine environment. For this purpose, ticks were collected from the cervical region of deer at the Marsh Deer Conservation Center in Promissão, São Paulo State, Brazil for nine consecutive years (2000 - 2008). Deer in captivity at the Center were kept in 2,000 m² paddocks surrounded by two-meter-high fences in the Tiete-river marsh. In total, 1,012 ticks of 26 deer were collected. Prevalence of the species A. triste among tick-infested hosts was the highest in the first triennium but decreased to the second and further to the third triennium. In contrast, the R. microplus prevalence amidst infested host population, increased from the first to the third triennium and was the species that attained the highest infestation intensity. Amblyomma sculptum was the tick with the lowest infestation prevalence and intensity throughout the period. The change in the proportion between the two most prevalent species was attributed to the new environment, specifically its restricted size and within it a dry area more suitable for R. microplus. DNA of 424 ticks processed in 276 pools was tested for Rickettsia genetic material by polymerase chain reactions (PCR). Twenty samples of the study were positive for the rickettsial gltA gene. Of these, 18 were from A. triste ticks and revealed the presence of the ompA spotted fever group gene as well. Eleven samples were sequenced and showed 100% identity with R. parkeri sensu stricto. Two samples from R. microplus did not amplify ompA gene neither yielded product in a PCR specific for Rickettsia bellii. Sequencing of the gltA gene in the DNA of these two ticks was also 100% identical with R. parkeri s.s. In conclusion, the changes in the deer environment modified the tick populations but maintained, at least temporary, R. parkeri bacteria in A. triste ticks. Rhipicephalus microplus was refractory to the R. parkeri infection and bacterial DNA in this tick species indicated DNA spill over from other tick species. It was demonstrated that captive marsh deer may sustain cattle tick populations on its own. This would hardly occur under pristine conditions because of the inadequacy the marsh deer´s naturally humid habitat for the cattle tick. However, deer transportations of R. microplus ticks from one farm to another may occur whenever habitat loss pushes this wild animal towards farms.
Collapse
|
15
|
Acevedo-Gutiérrez LY, Paternina LE, Labruna MB, Rodas JD. Presence of two species of the Amblyomma cajennense complex (Acari: Ixodidae) and probable zones of sympatry in northwestern Colombia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 12:101815. [PMID: 34461396 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The A. cajennense tick complex has been thought to be the main vector of Rickettsia rickettsii in Central and South America. Studies in Colombia have determined the presence of species A. patinoi and A. mixtum of the A. cajennense complex, but it is unknown which species of this complex exist in northwestern Colombia. Our aim was to identify the species of the A. cajennense complex that are present in northwestern Colombia. We sampled ticks of A. cajennense sensu lato infesting equids. Females identified according to the morphology of their genital pore were selected for genetic confirmation. Specimens from each locality were selected to perform molecular and genetic analysis. Specimens were analyzed from five departments (Antioquia, Bolívar, Córdoba, Magdalena, and Sucre). Morphologically 65 specimens were identified as A. patinoi and 5 as A. mixtum. Molecular analysis allowed to confirm the morphological identification of 27 specimens. In this study A. patinoi was widely distributed in the departments of Antioquia, Bolívar, and Córdoba with allopatric and sympatric distribution in some places. These two species in the region could have unexpected effects on the epidemiology of rickettsiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Luis E Paternina
- Biomedical Research Group, University of Sucre, Sincelejo, Colombia
| | - Marcelo B Labruna
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Juan D Rodas
- Research Group in Veterinary Sciences Centauro, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Serpa MCDA, Luz HR, Costa FB, Weck BC, Benatti HR, Martins TF, Correa LS, Ramirez DG, Rocha V, Dias TC, Correa LR, Brasil J, Brites-Neto J, Nievas AM, Suzin A, Monticelli PF, Moro MEG, Lopes B, Pacheco RC, Aguiar DM, Piovezan U, Szabó MPJ, Ferraz KMPMB, Percequillo AR, Labruna MB, Ramos VN. Small mammals, ticks and rickettsiae in natural and human-modified landscapes: Diversity and occurrence of Brazilian spotted fever in Brazil. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 12:101805. [PMID: 34411793 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
We studied communities of small mammals and their ticks in endemic (E) and non-endemic (NE) areas for Brazilian spotted fever (BSF), aiming to infer if diversity parameters of parasites and hosts could be related to occurrence and prevalence of rickettsial infection, especially Rickettsia rickettsii. We compared E and NE areas in human-modified landscapes (HMLs) and natural areas (BIO) with no report of BSF cases. Composition and equitability were important components of diversity explaining differences among areas. The marsupial Didelphis albiventris was dominant in HMLs, but not in natural areas, and this opossum was the main host for the tick Amblyomma sculptum, principal vector of R. rickettsii, especially in E areas. Communities of ticks were dominated by A. sculptum, followed by Amblyomma dubitatum in E areas. In NE areas, this dominance was inverted, with more A. dubitatum than A. sculptum infesting small mammals, but the numbers of ticks were much lower than in E areas. Composition and abundance of ticks in natural areas were very dissimilar from HMLs, with the lowest tick burdens. Didelphis albiventris in E areas presented higher seroprevalence and endpoint titres against R. rickettsii than in other areas. At least three Rickettsia species, non-pathogenic to humans, were detected in natural areas (Rickettsia bellii, Rickettsia amblyommatis and 'Candidatus Rickettsia andeanae'), and only one non-pathogenic species in HMLs (R. bellii). Our results suggest that higher diversity of ticks, hosts and rickettsiae could be relevant factors in buffering the effect in BSF occurrence. Particularly for D. albiventris, its importance has to be quantified in further studies considering the epidemiological scenario of BSF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carolina de A Serpa
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Hermes R Luz
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Patologia, Programa de Pós Graduação em Biotecnologia do Renorbio, Ponto Focal Maranhão, Universidade Federal do Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil
| | - Francisco B Costa
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil
| | - Bárbara C Weck
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Hector R Benatti
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago F Martins
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Laboratórios Especializados, Superintendência de Controle de Endemias, Secretaria de Estado da Saúde de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lidiani Silva Correa
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Escola Superior de Agricultura 'Luiz de Queiroz' Universidade de São Paulo, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diego G Ramirez
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Vlamir Rocha
- Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Araras, SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago C Dias
- Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Araras, SP, Brazil; Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Recursos Naturais, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas Ribeiro Correa
- Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Araras, SP, Brazil
| | - Jardel Brasil
- Unidade de Vigilância em Saúde, Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, Americana, SP, Brazil
| | - José Brites-Neto
- Unidade de Vigilância em Saúde, Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, Americana, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Nievas
- Departamento de Psicologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Adriane Suzin
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Programa de Pós Graduação em Ecologia e Conservação de Recursos Naturais, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Patricia Ferreira Monticelli
- Departamento de Psicologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Estela G Moro
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Lopes
- Departamento de Ciências Florestais, Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz, Universidade de São Paulo, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Richard C Pacheco
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | - Daniel M Aguiar
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | - Ubiratan Piovezan
- Embrapa Pantanal, Corumbá, MS, Brazil; Embrapa Tabuleiros Costeiros, Aracaju, SE, Brazil
| | - Matias P J Szabó
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Katia Maria P M B Ferraz
- Departamento de Ciências Florestais, Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz, Universidade de São Paulo, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexandre R Percequillo
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Escola Superior de Agricultura 'Luiz de Queiroz' Universidade de São Paulo, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo B Labruna
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Vanessa N Ramos
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
de Siqueira SM, da Costa Maia R, do Nascimento Ramos V, da Silva Rodrigues V, Szabó MPJ. Rhipicephalus microplus and Amblyomma sculptum (Ixodidae) infestation of Nellore cattle (Bos taurus indicus) in a farm of the Brazilian Cerrado: seasonality and infestation patterns. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2021; 84:659-672. [PMID: 34138398 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-021-00636-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We herein describe zebuine cattle tick infestation in a farm in southeast Brazil with an examination accurate enough to detect tick immatures and species other than R. microplus. Cattle were inspected monthly for ticks from May 2015 to May 2017 and 7604 ticks were collected along 276 bovine inspections. Rhipicephalus microplus was the dominant species (7197 specimens, 94.5% from the total), but Amblyomma sculptum was also collected (407/5.5%). Horse tick infestations were evaluated for comparison purposes of A. sculptum infestations of a primary host sharing pastures with bovines. Ticks were counted on the left side of 4-12 horses every 3 months from October 2015 to October 2017. Overall, 68 horse inspections were performed and 1702 ticks were collected: Dermacentor nitens (805 specimens/47.3% of the total), A. sculptum (733/43.1%) and R. microplus (164/9.6%). Overall mean tick abundance on bovines was low if compared to that of taurine cattle and counting revealed four annual generations of R. microplus. The interval between infestation peaks was 3 months, irrespective of the season, and an increase in tick counts from spring onward, as described in the south of Brazil, was not seen. Amblyomma sculptum infestation abundance was minor but constant and in high prevalence. Cattle infestation with A. sculptum seems to depend on pasture sharing with other domestic and wild hosts that are its primary hosts and provide engorged females to complete their life cycle. The impact of such tick sharing among several host species on tick-borne pathogen transmission remains to be elucidated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Maciel de Siqueira
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Mato Grosso, 3289/Campus Umuarama - Bloco 2S, Uberlândia, MG, 38405-314, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo da Costa Maia
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Mato Grosso, 3289/Campus Umuarama - Bloco 2S, Uberlândia, MG, 38405-314, Brazil
| | - Vanessa do Nascimento Ramos
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Mato Grosso, 3289/Campus Umuarama - Bloco 2S, Uberlândia, MG, 38405-314, Brazil
| | - Vinicius da Silva Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Mato Grosso, 3289/Campus Umuarama - Bloco 2S, Uberlândia, MG, 38405-314, Brazil
| | - Matias Pablo Juan Szabó
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Mato Grosso, 3289/Campus Umuarama - Bloco 2S, Uberlândia, MG, 38405-314, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Muraro LS, Souza ADO, Leite TNS, Cândido SL, Melo ALT, Toma HS, Carvalho MB, Dutra V, Nakazato L, Cabezas-Cruz A, de Aguiar DM. First Evidence of Ehrlichia minasensis Infection in Horses from Brazil. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10030265. [PMID: 33669023 PMCID: PMC7996482 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The genus Ehrlichia includes tick-borne bacterial pathogens affecting humans, domestic and wild mammals. Ehrlichia minasensis has been identified in different animal species and geographical locations, suggesting that this is a widely distributed and generalist Ehrlichia. In the present study, we evaluated Ehrlichial infection in 148 Equidae presented to the Medical Clinic Department of a Veterinary Hospital from a midwestern region of Brazil. Blood samples and ticks collected from the animals were tested by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for the presence of Ehrlichia spp. A multigenic approach including Anaplasmataceae-specific (i.e., 16S rRNA, groEL, gltA) and Ehrlichia-specific (i.e., dsb and trp36) genes was used for accurate bacteria identification. Sera samples were also collected and evaluated for the detection of anti-Ehrlichia antibodies by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFA). Possible associations between molecular and serological diagnostics and clinical and hematological manifestations were tested using chi-squared or Fisher’s exact tests. Sequence analysis of the dsb fragment revealed that three horses (2.03%) were exposed to E. minasensis. Sixty-one (41.2%) Equidae (58 equines and three mules), were seropositive for Ehrlichia spp., with antibody titers ranging between 40 and 2560. Seropositivity to ehrlichial antigens was statistically associated with tick infestation, rural origin, hypoalbuminemia and hyperproteinemia (p ≤ 0.05). The present study reports the first evidence of natural infection by E. minasensis in horses from Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lívia S. Muraro
- Laboratory of Virology and Rickettsial Infections, Veterinary Hospital, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Av. Fernando Correa da Costa 2367, Cuiabá 78090-900, Brazil;
| | - Aneliza de O. Souza
- Veterinary Clinical Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinics, University of Cuiabá (UNIC), Av. Manoel José de Arruda 3100, Cuiabá 78065-900, Brazil; (A.d.O.S.); (T.N.S.L.)
| | - Tamyres N. S. Leite
- Veterinary Clinical Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinics, University of Cuiabá (UNIC), Av. Manoel José de Arruda 3100, Cuiabá 78065-900, Brazil; (A.d.O.S.); (T.N.S.L.)
| | - Stefhano L. Cândido
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Veterinary Hospital of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Av. Fernando Correa da Costa 2367, Cuiabá 78090-900, Brazil; (S.L.C.); (V.D.); (L.N.)
| | - Andréia L. T. Melo
- Veterinary of Clinical, Veterinary Medicine College, University of Cuiabá (UNIC), Av. Manoel José de Arruda 3100, Cuiabá 78065-900, Brazil; (A.L.T.M.); (M.B.C.)
| | - Hugo S. Toma
- Veterinary Medicine Department, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Campus Universitário, Mailbox 3037, Lavras 37200-000, Brazil;
| | - Mariana B. Carvalho
- Veterinary of Clinical, Veterinary Medicine College, University of Cuiabá (UNIC), Av. Manoel José de Arruda 3100, Cuiabá 78065-900, Brazil; (A.L.T.M.); (M.B.C.)
| | - Valéria Dutra
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Veterinary Hospital of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Av. Fernando Correa da Costa 2367, Cuiabá 78090-900, Brazil; (S.L.C.); (V.D.); (L.N.)
| | - Luciano Nakazato
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Veterinary Hospital of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Av. Fernando Correa da Costa 2367, Cuiabá 78090-900, Brazil; (S.L.C.); (V.D.); (L.N.)
| | - Alejandro Cabezas-Cruz
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, F-94700 Maisons-Alfort, France;
| | - Daniel M. de Aguiar
- Laboratory of Virology and Rickettsial Infections, Veterinary Hospital, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Av. Fernando Correa da Costa 2367, Cuiabá 78090-900, Brazil;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ueno TEH, Cutolo AA, Martins TF, Moraes-Filho J, Azevedo SSD, Labruna MB. Rickettsial infection in equids, opossums and ticks in the municipality of Monte Mor, state of São Paulo, Brazil. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 29:e015420. [PMID: 33237125 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate rickettsial infection in equids, opossums and ticks in the municipality of Monte Mor, a place where a Brazilian spotted fever case occurred in 2005. In addition, characteristics possibly associated with seropositivity in horses were analyzed. Serum samples from horses, mules and opossums (Didelphis albiventris) were subjected to indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) against Rickettsia rickettsii. The ticks collected from the animals were identified and Amblyomma sculptum ticks from the equids were tested using PCR for Rickettsia spp. Anti-R. rickettsii antibodies were detected in 22.6% (14/62) of the horses, none of the mules and 21.7% (5/23) of the opossums. Among the variables analyzed, only age > 12 years showed a statistically significant association with seropositivity among horses. All of the 166 A. sculptum ticks tested using PCR were negative. The results showed that rickettsiae of the spotted fever group was circulating in the municipality of Monte Mor when the samples were collected and indicate a need for surveillance of Brazilian spotted fever in this region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Evelyn Hayama Ueno
- Polo Regional Alta Sorocabana, Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios - APTA, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brasil
| | - André Antonio Cutolo
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - Thiago Fernandes Martins
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | - Sérgio Santos de Azevedo
- Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande - UFCG, Patos, PB, Brasil
| | - Marcelo Bahia Labruna
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Corriale MJ, Pedelacq ME, Guichón ML, Bilenca DN. Influence of land use and artificial water bodies on the habitat use of Myocastor coypus and Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris in the Argentine Pampas. Mamm Biol 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-020-00082-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
21
|
Labruna MB, Faccini JLH. The nonparasitic phase of Dermacentor nitens under field conditions in southeastern Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2020; 29:e008620. [PMID: 33112361 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Dermacentor nitens is a one-host tick that uses domestic equids as main hosts. Herein, the nonparasitic phase of D. nitens was evaluated under field conditions in Pirassununga, São Paulo state, Southeastern Brazil. By exposing engorged females of D. nitens to field conditions (grass plots) for 24 consecutive months, this tick species was able to complete its nonparasitic phase by producing host-seeking larvae in the pasture throughout the year. Preoviposition and egg incubation periods were longer during autumn and winter months than during the other months. The number of larvae generated by engorged females was in most of the times lower during autumn and winter months, as demonstrated by lower egg hatching values. Such conditions could be linked to lower mean temperatures and rainfall. Larvae with the longest longevity hatched from the eggs with the shortest incubation periods. An apparent synchronism of larval hatching during spring was observed from the eggs laid by females during late winter and autumn, which is consistent with the phenomenon of "spring rise". The results indicate that D. nitens can complete up to five generations per year in southeastern Brazil, providing baseline data to develop future protocols for the appropriate control of D. nitens on horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Bahia Labruna
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - João Luiz Horácio Faccini
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Campos SDE, Cunha NCD, Machado CDSC, Telleria EL, Cordeiro MD, Fonseca AHD, Toma HK, Santos JPCD, Almosny NRP. Rickettsial pathogens circulating in urban districts of Rio de Janeiro, without report of human Brazilian Spotted Fever. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 29:e014220. [PMID: 33111845 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Spotted fever group rickettsioses are emerging diseases. In some of these diseases, domestic dogs act as sentinels. Canine serological studies have demonstrated that rickettsial dispersion is concentrated in rural areas, seroprevalence being higher where human rickettsioses are endemic. In Rio de Janeiro, the Atlantic forest vegetation has been devastated by urbanization. In this context, we aimed to detect Rickettsia spp. in urban areas of the West Zone of Rio de Janeiro. Sera from 130 dogs were tested by Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay, and ticks collected from these dogs were tested by polymerase chain reaction. We found the rate of serological reactions against R. rickettsii and R. parkeri in our study area to exceed those of rural and non-endemic areas, highlighting the importance of dogs as urban sentinels. The possibility of contact with opossums and capybaras increased the chances of exposure to Rickettsia spp., reinforcing the hypothetical link between the landscape and the rickettsial wild cycle. Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato was the tick most frequently observed. PCR-positive samples showed similarity with R. rickettsii and R. felis, an emerging pathogen rarely reported from ticks. We observed that rickettsiae circulate in urban places and ticks from indoor environments, which may be involved in bacterial epidemiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Destri Emmerick Campos
- Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Clínica e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense - UFF, Niterói, RJ, Brasil
| | - Nathalie Costa da Cunha
- Departamento de Saúde Coletiva Veterinária e Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense - UFF, Niterói, RJ, Brasil
| | - Camila de Souza Cerqueira Machado
- Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Clínica e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense - UFF, Niterói, RJ, Brasil
| | - Erich Loza Telleria
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vinicna, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Matheus Dias Cordeiro
- Departamento de Epidemiologia e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Adivaldo Henrique da Fonseca
- Departamento de Epidemiologia e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Helena Keiko Toma
- Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - Nádia Regina Pereira Almosny
- Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Clínica e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense - UFF, Niterói, RJ, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Weber N, Trujillo-Trujillo J, Krücken J, Michl C, Hidalgo ME, Appráez-Ippolito G, Castillo F, Feldmeier H, Sunderkötter C. Tickbite-associated chronic pruritic lesions in an Afro-descendant population in the Cauca Department, Colombia. I. Clinical features and impact on health. Int J Dermatol 2020; 59:1491-1501. [PMID: 32975315 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.15184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During a health survey in a remote area in southwest Colombia, it became apparent that a high percentage of the population suffered from chronic pruritus in association with high numbers of ticks and tickbites. OBJECTIVE To determine the clinical features and severity of tickbite-associated pruritus. METHOD At twotime points - 8 weeks apart to account for seasonal effects - a cross-sectional study was conducted encompassing physical examination of the population, histological analysis of skin biopsies, and determining serum for antibodies against spotted fever (SFG) rickettsiae and typhus group (TG) rickettsiae. Ticks were identified using morphological criteria, and infection by rickettsiae was determined by PCR. RESULTS About 94.5% of the population (95% CI 92-97%) showed clinical signs of a pruritic arthropod reaction and of chronic pruritus with lichenoid papules and hyper- and hypopigmented nodules on otherwise noninflamed skin. Pruritus markedly impaired the quality of life in terms of sleeping disturbances. No signs for other diseases were observed. Chronic pruritus appeared to be because of repeated tickbites and scratching, but not because of other dermatological or medical conditions. Antibodies against SFG and TG-rickettsiae were detected at 79.0% (95% CI 73-86) and 3.6% (95% CI 0.7-6), respectively. Ticks were identified as Amblyomma cajennense. CONCLUSION Remarkably high exposure to tick bites caused an unusually high rate of acute and chronic pruritus and markedly impaired quality of life of the investigated rural community. This underlines the necessity of public health measures and surveillance of rickettsial disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Weber
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Halle, Halle, Germany
| | | | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christiane Michl
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Halle, Halle, Germany
| | - Maryln E Hidalgo
- Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | - Hermann Feldmeier
- Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charite-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cord Sunderkötter
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Halle, Halle, Germany.,Department of Translational Dermatoinfectiology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Borges DA, Cid YP, Avelar BRD, Ferreira TP, Campos DR, Santos GCMD, Alves MCC, Scott FB. In vitro acaricidal activity of different ectoparasiticide classes against Amblyomma sculptum larvae. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2020; 29:e003020. [PMID: 32756773 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Zoonoses are major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Among them, Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF) is an important one that occurs in some regions of South America and can be transmitted by the "star tick" Amblyomma sculptum. Application of acaricides against the larval stage is important as strategy of population control. However, there is still a deficiency of studies on chemical control of A. sculptum and the present work aims to evaluate the in vitro acaricidal activity of cypermethrin, flumethrin, deltamethrin, fipronil, coumaphos and chlorpyrifos against A. sculptum larvae. Bioassays were performed using the larval immersion test method. A discriminatory analysis between the antiparasitic classes most used for tick control was carried out, which made it possible to determine the classes with higher potential for controlling A. sculptum larvae. Our results showed that A. sculptum larvae present highest sensitivity to the synthetic pyrethroid group, followed by the phenylpyrazole, organophosphate and macrocyclic lactone groups. These findings may support studies on improvement of tick control as in animals as in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Debora Azevedo Borges
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Yara Peluso Cid
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Institutos de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Barbara Rauta de Avelar
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Thais Paes Ferreira
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Diefrey Ribeiro Campos
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - Melina Cardilo Campos Alves
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Fabio Barbour Scott
- Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro - UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Karasek I, Butler C, Baynes R, Werners A. A review on the treatment and control of ectoparasite infestations in equids. J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2020; 43:421-428. [PMID: 32488977 DOI: 10.1111/jvp.12874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Ectoparasites infestations are a growing concern to horse owners and equine veterinarians alike. Ectoparasites cause significant health and welfare issues and can potentially can serve as vectors for a variety of pathogens. The prevalence of ectoparasites increases around the world, and especially in horses information on the successful prevention and treatment of ectoparasite infestations in scarce and in many instances anecdotal. This poses a challenge to the equine veterinarian and off-label use of drugs can lead to detrimental effects in horses. In this review we describe the current available evidence for the prevention and treatment of ectoparasite infestations in horses. Only a very limited number of products is approved for the use in horses and fortunately many of the other products that are used in an off-label manner appear to be safe in horses. Future research in this area should aim at providing PK/PD modelling data to assure appropriate and safe dose regimen to prevent and treat ectoparasite infestations in horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inga Karasek
- Large Animal Medicine and Surgery Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada
| | - Catherine Butler
- Large Animal Medicine and Surgery Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada
| | - Ronald Baynes
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Arno Werners
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Retrospective and new records of ticks (Acari: Argasidae, Ixodidae) from the state of Maranhão, an Amazon-Cerrado transition area of Brazil. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 21:100413. [PMID: 32862893 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The Brazilian state of Maranhão is located in a transition area of the Amazon and Cerrado biomes, where there is a rich fauna of vertebrates. This study aimed to update the list of the ticks occurring in Maranhão, through a compilation of literature records and examination of three tick collections, plus the addition of unpublished collections of ticks from road-killed animals during recent years. Our results indicate that the tick fauna of Maranhão includes 26 species: seven in the family Argasidae (Antricola guglielmonei, Argas miniatus, Ornithodoros cavernicolous, Ornithodoros hasei, Ornithodoros mimon, Ornithodoros rietcorreai and Ornithodoros rudis); and 19 in the family Ixodidae (Amblyomma auricularium-provisional, Amblyomma cajennense sensu stricto, Amblyomma calcaratum, Amblyomma dissimile, Amblyomma geayi, Amblyomma longirostre, Amblyomma naponense, Amblyomma nodosum, Amblyomma oblongoguttatum, Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma parvum, Amblyomma rotundatum, Amblyomma sculptum, Amblyomma triste, Dermacentor nitens, Ixodes luciae, Haemaphysalis juxtakochi, Rhipicephalus microplus, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato). Eleven of the above species are reported for the first time in Maranhão. We consider previous reports of Ornithodoros talaje and Amblyomma pseudoconcolor in Maranhão as misidentification with O. hasei and A. auricularium, respectively. Until 1958, only 11 tick species were reported in Maranhão, with no additional reports until 2009. During 2010-2019, 15 additional species were reported. We also highlight the importance of ticks for public and veterinary health in Maranhão.
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
The increase of contact between natural and rural areas is prominent in Brazil, due to agricultural activities and concern with the environmental conservation. In this context, domestic animals, wild fauna and humans are exposed to mutual exchange of parasites, microorganisms and diseases. We studied tick parasitism of wild carnivores and domestic dogs, and the environmental of questing ticks, in extensive cattle ranch areas intermingled with natural vegetation, and in a natural reserve, both in a region of Cerrado biome, Midwestern Brazil. From 2008 to 2015, we inspected 119 wild carnivores from nine species, and collected six tick species (Amblyomma sculptum, Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma dubitatum, Amblyomma tigrinum, Dermacentor nitens and Rhipicephalus microplus). The most numerous and infested hosts were Cerdocyon thous, Lycalopex vetulus, Chrysocyon brachyurus, Puma concolor and Conepatus amazonicus. From 139 domestic dogs, we collected A. sculptum, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and R. microplus. From vegetation, samplings resulted in A. sculptum, A. dubitatum, A. ovale, Amblyomma rotundatum and R. microplus, with dominance of A. sculptum. Domestics and wild animals presented high overlapping of infestations by A. sculptum, a generalist and anthropophilic tick species. This tick is the most important vector of the Brazilian spotted fever, a lethal human disease. This fact elicits attention and requires efforts to monitor the presence of pathogens vectored by ticks circulating in this type of agroecosystem, including in other regions of the Brazil, because the most of the natural vegetation remaining have been increasingly immersed in pastures and agricultural matrix.
Collapse
|
28
|
Sanmartín Sánchez L, Blanco-Penedo I, Perea Muñoz JM, Quiñones Pérez C, Delgado JV, Vega-Pla JL. Welfare assessment at a Spanish Army Equine Breeding Centre. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2019.1706433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lourdes Sanmartín Sánchez
- Centro de Apoyo Logístico a las Operaciones, Cuartel General de la Fuerza Logística Operativa, Ejército de Tierra, Ministry of Defense, La Coruña, Spain
| | - Isabel Blanco-Penedo
- Institutionen för kliniska vetenskaper, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Carlota Quiñones Pérez
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada, Cría Caballar de las Fuerzas Armadas Ministry of Defense, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan Vicente Delgado
- Departamento de Genética, University of Córdoba, Campus Rabanales, Córdoba, Spain
| | - José Luis Vega-Pla
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada, Cría Caballar de las Fuerzas Armadas Ministry of Defense, Córdoba, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Araújo SBD, Sampaio PHS, Duarte FC, Anjos KAD, Fiorini LC, Godoi FEDM, Mendes MC. Integrated tick control on a farm with the presence of capybaras in a Brazilian spotted fever endemic region. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2019; 28:671-676. [PMID: 31800889 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612019096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ticks of the Amblyomma cajennense complex present high infestation rates. These ticks transmit the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii, which causes Brazilian Spotted Fever. For this reason, an integrated tick control system was adopted on a farm in the municipality of Itu, state of São Paulo. On this farm, which borders the Tietê river, domestic animals are in contact with populations of capybaras. Six locations were monitored and evaluated between the years of 2015 and 2017. During this work 1271 nymphs and adult ticks were caught, all of them from the Amblyomma sculptum species, except for a single individual from the Amblyomma dubitatum species. The integrated tick management reduced the overall infestation levels to zero. Adult tick population dropped in the first year of the study, while larvae population dropped in the second year. Nymph population dropped in both years, decreasing in higher numbers in the first year. The estimated mean infestation levels for all of the tick's life cycle forms in the six monitored spots did not reach one individual in the end of the study. Estimated mean infestation levels for nymphs in these places equaled zero.
Collapse
|
30
|
Ticks biting humans in the Brazilian savannah: Attachment sites and exposure risk in relation to species, life stage and season. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2019; 11:101328. [PMID: 31767495 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2019.101328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Information about human tick bites in Brazil is mostly anecdotal. Published information is typically restricted to single tick infestation episodes and does not address human exposure occurring on a daily basis in natural, rural, or green urban areas. We present a comprehensive 2-yr study on human parasitism during a broad survey on ticks within a Brazilian savannah reserve. Overall, 439 tick bites were recorded from the following species: Amblyomma sculptum (n = 331 bites), Amblyomma parvum (n = 64), Amblyomma auricularium (n = 3), Rhipicephalus microplus (n = 2), Dermacentor nitens (n = 1) and 38 Amblyomma spp. ticks. Nymphs accounted for most tick bites (n = 292, 66.5 % of all bites) and these were overwhelmingly A. sculptum (92.8 % of nymphal bites). The main adult tick biting humans was A. parvum (n = 61, 50 % of all adult tick bites) followed closely by A. sculptum (n = 58, 47.5 % of all adult tick bites). Winter was the season with the highest percentage of tick bites (39.7 % of all bites), followed by spring (32.4 %); summer (18.9 %) and autumn (9 %). Amblyomma sculptum adult bites peaked in summer whereas nymphal bites occurred primarily in winter and spring. Amblyomma parvum adult bites peaked in spring and summer. The most common tick attachment sites included the waist, legs and belly, but A. parvum adults were recorded from the head of humans as well. A noteworthy observation was the lack of human parasitism by Amblyomma triste, the third most prevalent species in the environment. This tick species is a frequent human biter in both Uruguay and Argentina where it transmits a pathogen, Rickettsia parkeri, to humans.
Collapse
|
31
|
Valente JDM, Mongruel ACB, Machado CAL, Chiyo L, Leandro AS, Britto AS, Martins TF, Barros-Filho IR, Biondo AW, Perotta JH, Campos ANS, Vidotto O, Labruna MB, Aguiar DM, Vieira TSWJ, Vieira RFC. Tick-borne pathogens in carthorses from Foz do Iguaçu City, Paraná State, southern Brazil: A tri-border area of Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. Vet Parasitol 2019; 273:71-79. [PMID: 31446256 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2019.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases (TBD) constitute an important group of illness affecting animals and humans worldwide. In Brazil, carthorses are frequently exposed to ticks and tick-borne pathogens, leading to impairment of horse performance and imposing restrictions by the international veterinary authorities for the importation of horses. Accordingly, this study has aimed to i) determine the prevalence of the TBD agents Theileria equi, Babesia caballi, Ehrlichia spp., and hemotropic mycoplasmas in carthorses, ii) identify the tick species parasitizing the animals, and iii) determine factors associated with exposure/infection in Foz do Iguaçu City, Parana state, southern Brazil. A total of 103 carthorses were screened for anti-T. equi and anti-Ehrlichia spp. antibodies by indirect fluorescent antibody assays (IFA). Samples were also tested by PCR assays targeting the 18S rRNA gene of T. equi and B. caballi, and 16S rRNA gene of hemoplasmas. Additionally, PCR assays targeting the 16S rRNA, disulfide bond formation protein (dsb) and tandem repeat proteins 36 (trp36) genes of Ehrlichia spp. were also performed. Antibodies to T. equi and Ehrlichia spp. were detected in 43/103 (41.75%; 95% CI: 32.10-51.88%) and 5/103 (4.85%; 95% CI: 1.59-10.97%) horses by IFA, respectively. DNA of T. equi and B. caballi were found in 25/103 (24.27%; 95% CI: 16.36-33.71%) and 10/103 (9.71%; 95% CI: 4.75-17.13%) carthorses, respectively, and all tested negative for Ehrlichia spp. and hemoplasmas. All sequences showed ≥99% identity with multiple T. equi and B. caballi 18S rRNA gene sequences deposited in GenBank. Overall, 191 Dermacentor nitens ticks were collected from 25/103 (24.27%) animals. Carthorses older than 5 years were more likely to be positive for T. equi (p < 0.05). In conclusion, equine piroplasmosis agents are highly prevalent in carthorses from Foz do Iguaçu City. The low prevalence of Ehrlichia spp. found may be due to the absence of Amblyomma ticks infesting animals, which should be further investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D M Valente
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná - UFPR, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Anna C B Mongruel
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná - UFPR, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Carolina A L Machado
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná - UFPR, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Luciana Chiyo
- Unidade de Vigilância em Zoonoses, Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Andre S Leandro
- Unidade de Vigilância em Zoonoses, Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná, Brazil
| | - André S Britto
- Unidade de Vigilância em Zoonoses, Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Thiago F Martins
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ivan R Barros-Filho
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná - UFPR, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Alexander W Biondo
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná - UFPR, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - João H Perotta
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná - UFPR, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Amanda N S Campos
- Laboratório de Virologia e Rickettsioses, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Odilon Vidotto
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Marcelo B Labruna
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel M Aguiar
- Laboratório de Virologia e Rickettsioses, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Thállitha S W J Vieira
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná - UFPR, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Rafael F C Vieira
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná - UFPR, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil; Global One Health initiative (GOHi), The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Minervino AHH, Torres AC, Moreira TR, Vinholte BP, Sampaio BM, Bianchi D, Portela JM, Sarturi C, Marcili A, Barrêto Júnior RA, Gennari SM, Machado RZ. Factors associated with the prevalence of antibodies against Theileria equi in equids of Western Pará, Brazil. Transbound Emerg Dis 2019; 67 Suppl 2:100-105. [PMID: 31286674 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The State of Pará has one of the largest herds of equids (horse, donkey and mule) in Brazil, most of these animals are found on cattle farms. Equine theileriosis is a tick-borne disease caused by the parasite Theileria equi and is characterized by fever, anaemia, icterus, intravascular haemolysis, haemoglobinuria, spleen and hepatomegaly, and even death. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of antibodies against T. equi in equids in the western region of the State of Pará, Brazil, and to identify potential risk factors associated with parasite infection. A cross-sectional study was conducted with cluster sampling of farm horses from 18 municipalities. In the cities visited, samples from sport and carthorses were also included. Serum was obtained to detect T. equi-specific antibodies using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) based on a crude parasite antigen. In order to identify possible risk factors of the infection which are associated with the prevalence of antibodies, a chi-squared test was carried out. Of 1,117 equids, 373 tested positive for T. equi antibodies with an overall prevalence of 33.4% (31.3%-37.0% for the 95% confidence interval). Sex, animal species and breed were found not to be associated with the presence of T. equi antibodies, whereas age, the presence of dogs or ticks were associated with seropositivity (p < 0.05). Horses with ticks were 2.4 more likely seropositive than horses without ticks. The presence of dogs in the equid habitat and the presence of ticks resulted in a higher T. equi seropositive rate probably because dogs are hosts for vector ticks of T. equi. Our study represents the first report of T. equi antibodies in equids of western Pará revealing a widespread distribution of seropositive animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Humberto Hamad Minervino
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz s/n, 68040-255, Santarém, Pará, Brazil.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, University of São Paulo, USP. Av. Prof. Orlando M. Paiva 87, 05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Allana Cavalcante Torres
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz s/n, 68040-255, Santarém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Thiago Rocha Moreira
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz s/n, 68040-255, Santarém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Brena Peleja Vinholte
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz s/n, 68040-255, Santarém, Pará, Brazil.,University Center of the Amazon (UNAMA), Rua Rosa Vermelha 335, 68010-200, Santarém, Brazil
| | - Bruna Matarucco Sampaio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, University of São Paulo, USP. Av. Prof. Orlando M. Paiva 87, 05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniela Bianchi
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz s/n, 68040-255, Santarém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Juliana Machado Portela
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz s/n, 68040-255, Santarém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Sarturi
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz s/n, 68040-255, Santarém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Arlei Marcili
- Masters program in Medicine and Animal Welfare, Santo Amaro University, Av. Prof. Eneas de Siqueira Neto 340, 04529-300, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raimundo Alvês Barrêto Júnior
- Department of Animal Science, Federal Rural University of the Semiarid, UFERSA, Av. Francisco Mota s/n, 59625-900, Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Solange Maria Gennari
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, University of São Paulo, USP. Av. Prof. Orlando M. Paiva 87, 05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil.,Masters program in Medicine and Animal Welfare, Santo Amaro University, Av. Prof. Eneas de Siqueira Neto 340, 04529-300, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosangela Zacarias Machado
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, São Paulo State University, UNESP, Acesso Prof. Paulo D. Castellane s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Santodomingo A, Sierra-Orozco K, Cotes-Perdomo A, Castro LR. Molecular detection of Rickettsia spp., Anaplasma platys and Theileria equi in ticks collected from horses in Tayrona National Park, Colombia. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2019; 77:411-423. [PMID: 30923988 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-019-00354-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Horses are among the domestic animals that closely interact with humans and are highly parasitized by ticks, which are the primary vectors of zoonoses. As horses in Tayrona National Natural Park (PNNT) are used as a means of transporting goods, luggage and people, they are in constant contact with wild animals, workers and tourists from different countries. These factors increase the transmission risk of hemoparasites. The purpose of this study was to determine the presence of Rickettsia sp., Anaplasma sp., and Theileria sp., in horse ticks in this protected area using conventional PCR. We collected 343 ticks of genera Amblyomma, Rhipicephalus and Dermacentor. Of the 61 samples analyzed by PCR, 18 (29.5%) individuals were positive for Rickettsia sp., 15 (24.5%) for Anaplasma sp. and 4 (6.6%) for Theileria sp. This is the first report of these hemoparasite genera in ticks associated with horses in this preserved natural area, demonstrating the importance of additional studies on the presence and epidemiology of hemoparasites and their vectors in domestic and wild animals in conserved areas with a high flow of tourists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Santodomingo
- Grupo de Investigación Evolución, Sistemática y Ecología Molecular (GIESEMOL), Universidad del Magdalena, Cl. 32 #22-08, Santa Marta, Magdalena, Colombia.
| | - Keyla Sierra-Orozco
- Grupo de Investigación Evolución, Sistemática y Ecología Molecular (GIESEMOL), Universidad del Magdalena, Cl. 32 #22-08, Santa Marta, Magdalena, Colombia
| | - Andrea Cotes-Perdomo
- Grupo de Investigación Evolución, Sistemática y Ecología Molecular (GIESEMOL), Universidad del Magdalena, Cl. 32 #22-08, Santa Marta, Magdalena, Colombia
| | - Lyda R Castro
- Grupo de Investigación Evolución, Sistemática y Ecología Molecular (GIESEMOL), Universidad del Magdalena, Cl. 32 #22-08, Santa Marta, Magdalena, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Díaz-Sánchez AA, Corona-González B, Meli ML, Álvarez DO, Cañizares EV, Rodríguez OF, Rivero EL, Hofmann-Lehmann R. First molecular evidence of bovine hemoplasma species (Mycoplasma spp.) in water buffalo and dairy cattle herds in Cuba. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:78. [PMID: 30732656 PMCID: PMC6367761 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3325-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hemotropic mycoplasmas (aka hemoplasmas) are small bacteria which cause infectious anemia in several mammalian species including humans. Information on hemoplasma infections in Cuban bovines remains scarce and no studies applying molecular methods have been performed so far. The aim of the present study was to utilize real-time PCR and sequence analysis to investigate dairy cattle and buffalo from Cuba for the presence of bovine hemoplasma species. RESULTS A total of 80 blood samples from 39 buffalo and 41 dairy cattle were investigated for the presence of Mycoplasma wenyonii and "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemobos" using two species-specific real-time TaqMan PCR assays. PCR results revealed overall 53 (66.2%; 95% CI: 55.3-75.7%) positive animals for M. wenyonii and 33 (41.2%; 95% CI: 31.1-52.2%) for "Ca. M. haemobos"; the latter were all co-infections with M. wenyonii. The sample prevalences were similar in cattle and buffalo. Based on the sequence analysis of the nearly full-length 16S rRNA gene from two cattle and two buffalo, the presence of M. wenyonii and "Ca. M. haemobos" was confirmed. Statistical analysis revealed that buffalo and cattle one year of age or older were more frequently infected with M. wenyonii or "Ca. M. haemobos" than younger animals. PCR-positivity was not associated with anemia; however, the infection stage was unknown (acute infection versus chronic carriers). CONCLUSIONS The high occurrence of bovine hemoplasma infections in buffalo and dairy cattle may have a significant impact on Cuban livestock production. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first molecular evidence of bovine hemoplasma species infection in dairy cattle and buffalo from Cuba and the Caribbean.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Alberto Díaz-Sánchez
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque Cuba
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Belkis Corona-González
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque Cuba
| | - Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dasiel Obregón Álvarez
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Agraria de la Habana (UNAH), Apartado postal 18-19, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque Cuba
| | - Ernesto Vega Cañizares
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque Cuba
| | - Osvaldo Fonseca Rodríguez
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque Cuba
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Centre for Demographic and Ageing Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Evelyn Lobo Rivero
- Centro Nacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (CENSA), Carretera de Tapaste y Autopista Nacional, Apartado postal 10, 32700 San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque Cuba
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Szabó MPJ, Martins MM, de Castro MB, Pacheco RC, Tolesano-Pascoli GV, Dos Santos KT, Martins TF, de Souza LGA, May-Junior JA, Yokosawa J, Labruna MB. Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) in the Serra da Canastra National Park in Minas Gerais, Brazil: species, abundance, ecological and seasonal aspects with notes on rickettsial infection. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2018; 76:381-397. [PMID: 30317459 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-018-0300-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The Cerrado Biome is the second largest in Brazil covering roughly 2 million km2, with varying features throughout its area. The Biome is endangered but it is also source of animal species for rural, green urban and degraded rainforest areas. Ticks are among Cerrado species that establish at anthropogenic sites and although information about them is steadily increasing, several features are unknown. We herein report tick species, abundance and some ecological relationships within natural areas of the Cerrado at higher altitudes (800-1500 m) within and around Serra da Canastra National Park, in Minas Gerais State Brazil. In total of 1196 ticks were collected in the environment along 10 campaigns held in 3 years (2007-2009). Amblyomma sculptum was the most numerous species followed by Amblyomma dubitatum and Amblyomma brasiliense. Distribution of these species was very uneven and an established population of A. brasiliense in the Cerrado is reported for the first time. Other tick species (Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma nodosum, Amblyomma parvum, Ixodes schulzei and Haemaphysalis leporispalustris) were found in lesser numbers. Domestic animals displayed tick infestations of both rural and urban origin as well as from natural areas (Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, Rhipicephalus microplus, Dermacentor nitens, A. sculptum, A. ovale, Amblyomma tigrinum, Argas miniatus). Amblyomma sculptum had the widest domestic host spectrum among all tick species. DNA of only one Rickettsia species, R. bellii, was found in an A. dubitatum tick. Several biological and ecological features of ticks of the studied areas are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matias Pablo Juan Szabó
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720/Campus Umuarama-Bloco 2T, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, CEP 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Maria Marlene Martins
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720/Campus Umuarama-Bloco 2T, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, CEP 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Márcio Botelho de Castro
- Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade de Brasília, Av. L4 Norte, Hospital Veterinário - Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, CP. 4508, Asa Norte, Brasília, DF, CEP 70910-970, Brazil
| | - Richard Campos Pacheco
- Departamento de Ciências Básicas e Produção Animal, Faculdade de Agronomia, Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Av. Fernando Corrêa da Costa, 2367, Boa Esperança, Cuiabá, MT, CEP 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Graziela Virginia Tolesano-Pascoli
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720/Campus Umuarama-Bloco 2T, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, CEP 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Khelma Torga Dos Santos
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720/Campus Umuarama-Bloco 2T, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, CEP 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Thiago Fernandes Martins
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, CEP 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Luis Gustavo Antunes de Souza
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720/Campus Umuarama-Bloco 2T, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, CEP 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Joares Adenilson May-Junior
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde e de Ciências Sociais Aplicadas, Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina, Avenida José Acácio Moreira, 787 Dehon, Tubarão, SC, CEP 88704900, Brazil
| | - Jonny Yokosawa
- Laboratório de Virologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720/Campus Umuarama - Bloco 2B - CP 592, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, CEP 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Bahia Labruna
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, CEP 05508-270, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Binetruy F, Chevillon C, de Thoisy B, Garnier S, Duron O. Survey of ticks in French Guiana. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 10:77-85. [PMID: 30224310 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we examine the current pattern of tick diversity and host use in French Guiana, South America, from 97 sampling localities encompassing peri-urban, rural and natural habitats. We collected 3395 ticks, including 1485 specimens from 45 vertebrate species (humans, domestic and wild animals) and 1910 questing specimens from vegetation. Morphological examinations identified 22 species belonging to six genera: Amblyomma (16 species), Rhipicephalus (two species), Ixodes (one species), Dermacentor (one species), Haemaphysalis (one species), Ornithodoros (one species). To facilitate future identification, we produced a bank of pictures of different stages for all these species. Taxonomic identification was then confirmed by molecular characterization of two mitochondrial genes, cytochrome c oxidase CO1 and 16S rDNA. Eleven of the 22 reported species were collected on humans, six on domestic animals and 12 on wild animals. The most widespread tick species collected were A. cajennense sensu stricto and, to a lesser extent, A. oblongoguttatum; both of these species were frequently found on humans. We used these results to discuss the tick-associated risks for human and animal health in French Guiana.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Florian Binetruy
- MIVEGEC (Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut pour la Recherche et le Développement (IRD), Université de Montpellier (UM), Montpellier, France.
| | - Christine Chevillon
- MIVEGEC (Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut pour la Recherche et le Développement (IRD), Université de Montpellier (UM), Montpellier, France
| | - Benoît de Thoisy
- Laboratoire des Interactions Virus-Hôtes, Institut Pasteur de Guyane, Cayenne, France; Association Kwata "Study and Conservation of Guianan Wildlife'', Cayenne, France
| | - Stéphane Garnier
- UMR 6282 Biogéosciences, CNRS - Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Olivier Duron
- MIVEGEC (Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut pour la Recherche et le Développement (IRD), Université de Montpellier (UM), Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Rocha VJ, Sekiama ML, Gonçalves DD, Sampieri BR, Barbosa GP, Dias TDC, Rossi HR, Souza PFPD. CAPIVARAS (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) E A PRESENÇA DO CARRAPATO (Amblyomma sculptum) NO CAMPUS DA UFSCAR-ARARAS, SÃO PAULO. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/1089-6891v18e-44671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Capivaras são territoriais e vivem em grupos sociais, ocorrendo comumente em áreas antropizadas. Em algumas regiões do Brasil, estes animais apresentam infestação por carrapatos do gênero Amblyomma, que por sua vez são considerados como principal vetor biológico e reservatório natural da bactéria Rickettsia rickettsii, agente causador da Febre Maculosa Brasileira. Na UFSCar campus Araras, a interação entre capivaras, carrapatos e comunidade acadêmica é frequente, ocorrendo principalmente durante a estação seca. Este estudo teve como objetivo realizar um censo populacional das capivaras que ocupam o campus, identificando sua área de uso e se estes roedores se encontravam infestados por carrapatos. Realizou-se observação direta das capivaras, captura-marcação e recaptura com uso de um brete, e também coleta dos carrapatos nas capivaras e no ambiente. Registrou-se um total de 56 capivaras, com densidade de 1,50 ind./ha. Foram capturados 24 animais, sendo 25% machos e 75% fêmeas, dos quais 25% eram adultos, 45,8% jovens e 29,2% filhotes. A espécie de carrapato amplamente encontrada infestando tanto os animais como o ambiente foi A. sculptum. Conclui-se que o grupo de capivaras apresentou um número elevado de indivíduos por causa da abundância de recursos e ausência de predadores, e também com grande infestação por carrapatos.
Collapse
|
38
|
Esteves E, Maruyama SR, Kawahara R, Fujita A, Martins LA, Righi AA, Costa FB, Palmisano G, Labruna MB, Sá-Nunes A, Ribeiro JMC, Fogaça AC. Analysis of the Salivary Gland Transcriptome of Unfed and Partially Fed Amblyomma sculptum Ticks and Descriptive Proteome of the Saliva. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:476. [PMID: 29209593 PMCID: PMC5702332 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are obligate blood feeding ectoparasites that transmit a wide variety of pathogenic microorganisms to their vertebrate hosts. Amblyomma sculptum is vector of Rickettsia rickettsii, the causative agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), the most lethal rickettsiosis that affects humans. It is known that the transmission of pathogens by ticks is mainly associated with the physiology of the feeding process. Pathogens that are acquired with the blood meal must first colonize the tick gut and later the salivary glands (SG) in order to be transmitted during a subsequent blood feeding via saliva. Tick saliva contains a complex mixture of bioactive molecules with anticlotting, antiplatelet aggregation, vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties to counteract both the hemostasis and defense mechanisms of the host. Besides facilitating tick feeding, the properties of saliva may also benefits survival and establishment of pathogens in the host. In the current study, we compared the sialotranscriptome of unfed A. sculptum ticks and those fed for 72 h on rabbits using next generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). The total of reads obtained were assembled in 9,560 coding sequences (CDSs) distributed in different functional classes. CDSs encoding secreted proteins, including lipocalins, mucins, protease inhibitors, glycine-rich proteins, metalloproteases, 8.9 kDa superfamily members, and immunity-related proteins were mostly upregulated by blood feeding. Selected CDSs were analyzed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction preceded by reverse transcription (RT-qPCR), corroborating the transcriptional profile obtained by RNA-seq. Finally, high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis revealed 124 proteins in saliva of ticks fed for 96–120 h. The corresponding CDSs of 59 of these proteins were upregulated in SG of fed ticks. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the proteome of A. sculptum saliva. The functional characterization of the identified proteins might reveal potential targets to develop vaccines for tick control and/or blocking of R. rickettsii transmission as well as pharmacological bioproducts with antihemostatic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eliane Esteves
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra R Maruyama
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Rebeca Kawahara
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Fujita
- Departamento de Ciência da Computação, Instituto de Matemática e Estatística, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Larissa A Martins
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adne A Righi
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco B Costa
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giuseppe Palmisano
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo B Labruna
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anderson Sá-Nunes
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José M C Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Andréa C Fogaça
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Life cycle and parasitic competence of Dermacentor nitens Neumann, 1897 (Acari: Ixodidae) on different animal species. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 8:379-384. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Revised: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
40
|
Ambush behavior of the tick Amblyomma sculptum (Amblyomma cajennense complex) (Acari: Ixodidae) in the Brazilian Pantanal. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 8:506-510. [PMID: 28259592 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We herein describe the ambush behavior of Amblyomma sculptum (Berlese 1888), a widespread and epidemiologically important tick in Brazil. Along two years of sampling by visual search in the Brazilian Pantanal, A. sculptum ticks were observed on the vegetation and in the leaf litter. Most of the ticks were observed between 10 and 50cm above ground level and less than five percent of the total were positioned below 10cm, indicating that they are seeking for middle or large-sized hosts. In both seasons, vapor saturation deficit was low during the morning. No significant relationship was found between questing ticks and daytime interval of observation or saturation deficit. However, questing tick numbers seem be higher in the end of the morning, when saturation deficit reaches its peak. Behavioral patterns of A. sculptum ticks observed in Pantanal underscore the occurrence of this tick and human contact at green anthropogenic sites. Considering A. sculptum questing behavior, inferences on human behavioral patterns that enhance or avoid contact with ticks are discussed.
Collapse
|
41
|
Osava CF, Ramos VDN, Rodrigues AC, Dos Reis Neto HV, Martins MM, Pascoal JO, Yokosawa J, Szabó MPJ. Amblyomma sculptum (Amblyomma cajennense complex) tick population maintained solely by domestic pigs. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2016; 6:9-13. [PMID: 31014529 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2016.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In Brazil Amblyomma sculptum from Amblyomma cajennense complex is a tick species with a rather broad distribution encompassing the Cerrado Biome and devastated areas of the Atlantic rainforest. This species is also the major vector to humans of Rickettsia rickettsii, agent of the Brazilian spotted fever. Main primary hosts for the adult stage and frequently associated to high environmental infestation levels are the native capybaras and tapirs and a domestic host, the horse. Recent, however, solely circumstantial evidence, has shown that pigs (Sus scrofa) domestic, feral or exotic (wild boars) as well as wild suidae may maintain A. sculptum populations as well. We herein describe the maintenance of an A. sculptum tick population by domestic pigs for three years when raised in paddocks. Observations herein described occurred in the facilities of an intensive outdoor pig production system within a farm in Uberaba municipality southeast Brazil. Initial evaluation was done upon request due to human tick-bite complains in June 2013. Later tick infestations were evaluated at each of eight consecutive seasons from August 2014 to May 2016. In the first evaluation, 104 nymphs and one female A. sculptum were collected from four pigs and 269 nymphs of A. sculptum and 12 Amblyomma spp larva clusters from the paddocks. Only one A. sculptum nymph was found in each of the surrounding bovine pasture and a nearby riparian forest. Seven Rhipicephalus spp and three Amblyomma spp larva were found in the former as well. Infestations were greatly reduced with elimination of the two most infested paddocks and mowing of vegetation. Still along the inspection of eight consecutive seasons A sculptum ticks were collected overwhelmingly adults from pigs. Thus, observations herein described show that outdoor pig raising may provide both a permissive environment and adequate host allowing for a minimal threshold for the maintenance of A. sculptum populations. Since raising domestic pigs in paddocks to increase animal welfare is an increasing practice, it may indicate a new trend in this parasitism, with yet an unknown effect upon animal and human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Fonseca Osava
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG
| | | | | | - Hugo Vilela Dos Reis Neto
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG
| | - Maria Marlene Martins
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG
| | - Jamile Oliveira Pascoal
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG
| | - Jonny Yokosawa
- Laboratório de Virologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG
| | - Matias Pablo Juan Szabó
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Ehrlichia sp. infection in carthorses of low-income owners, Southern Brazil. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 48:1-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2016.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
43
|
Prevalence and risk factors of Theileria equi infection in horses in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2016; 3-4:18-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2016.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
44
|
Martins TF, Barbieri ARM, Costa FB, Terassini FA, Camargo LMA, Peterka CRL, de C Pacheco R, Dias RA, Nunes PH, Marcili A, Scofield A, Campos AK, Horta MC, Guilloux AGA, Benatti HR, Ramirez DG, Barros-Battesti DM, Labruna MB. Geographical distribution of Amblyomma cajennense (sensu lato) ticks (Parasitiformes: Ixodidae) in Brazil, with description of the nymph of A. cajennense (sensu stricto). Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:186. [PMID: 27036324 PMCID: PMC4818509 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1460-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Until recently, Amblyomma cajennense (Fabricius, 1787) was considered to represent a single tick species in the New World. Recent studies have split this taxon into six species. While the A. cajennense species complex or A. cajennense (sensu lato) (s.l.) is currently represented by two species in Brazil, A. cajennense (sensu stricto) (s.s.) and Amblyomma sculptum Berlese, 1888, their geographical distribution is poorly known. Methods The distribution of the A. cajennense (s.l.) in Brazil was determined by morphological examination of all lots of A. cajennense (s.l.) in two large tick collections of Brazil, and by collecting new material during three field expeditions in the possible transition areas between the distribution ranges of A. cajennense (s.s.) and A. sculptum. Phylogenetic analysis inferred from the ITS2 rRNA gene was used to validate morphological results. Morphological description of the nymphal stage of A. cajennense (s.s.) is provided based on laboratory-reared specimens. Results From the tick collections, a total 12,512 adult ticks were examined and identified as 312 A. cajennense (s.s.), 6,252 A. sculptum and 5,948 A. cajennense (s.l.). A total of 1,746 ticks from 77 localities were collected during field expeditions, and were identified as 249 A. cajennense (s.s.), 443 A. sculptum, and 1,054 A. cajennense (s.l.) [these A. cajennense (s.l.) ticks were considered to be males of either A. cajennense (s.s.) or A. sculptum]. At least 23 localities contained the presence of both A. cajennense (s.s.) and A. sculptum in sympatry. DNA sequences of the ITS2 gene of 50 ticks from 30 localities confirmed the results of the morphological analyses. The nymph of A. cajennense (s.s.) is morphologically very similar to A. sculptum. Conclusion Our results confirmed that A. cajennense (s.l.) is currently represented in Brazil by only two species, A. cajennense (s.s.) and A. sculptum. While these species have distinct distribution areas in the country, they are found in sympatry in some transition areas. The current distribution of A. cajennense (s.l.) has important implications to public health, since in Brazil A. sculptum is the most important vector of the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii, the etiological agent of Brazilian spotted fever. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-016-1460-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago F Martins
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Amália R M Barbieri
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Francisco B Costa
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Flávio A Terassini
- Faculdade São Lucas, R. Alexandre Guimarães Areal 1927, Porto Velho, Rondônia, 78916-450, Brazil
| | - Luís M A Camargo
- Faculdade São Lucas, R. Alexandre Guimarães Areal 1927, Porto Velho, Rondônia, 78916-450, Brazil.,Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Professor Lineu Prestes 1374, São Paulo, 05389-970, Brazil
| | - Cássio R L Peterka
- Coordenação Geral do Programa Nacional de Controle da Malária, Setor Comercial Sul, Quadra 04, Bloco A, Edifício Principal, 6° Andar, Brasília, Distrito Federal, 70304-000, Brazil
| | - Richard de C Pacheco
- Departamento de Ciências Básicas e Produção Animal, Faculdade de Agronomia, Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Av. Fernando Corrêa da Costa 2367, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Ricardo A Dias
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Pablo H Nunes
- Instituto Latino-Americano de Ciências da Vida e da Natureza, Universidade Federal da Integração Latino-Americana, Av. Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos 1000, Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná, 85870-901, Brazil
| | - Arlei Marcili
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, 05508-270, Brazil.,Universidade de Santo Amaro, R. Prof. Enéas de Siqueira Neto 340, São Paulo, 04829-300, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Scofield
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Pará, Av. Maximino Porpino 1000, Castanhal, Pará, 68740-000, Brazil
| | - Artur K Campos
- Deparatamento de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. PH Rolfs, s/n, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, 36570-000, Brazil
| | - Mauricio C Horta
- Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco, Campus de Ciências Agrárias, Rodovia BR 407, Km 12, Lote 543 - Projeto de Irrigação Senador Nilo Coelho, s/n, Petrolina, Pernambuco, 56300-990, Brazil
| | - Aline G A Guilloux
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Hector R Benatti
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Diego G Ramirez
- Laboratório Especial de Coleções Zoológicas, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Darci M Barros-Battesti
- Laboratório Especial de Coleções Zoológicas, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Marcelo B Labruna
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, 05508-270, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Ramos VN, Piovezan U, Franco AHA, Rodrigues VS, Nava S, Szabó MPJ. Nellore cattle (Bos indicus) and ticks within the Brazilian Pantanal: ecological relationships. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2016; 68:227-240. [PMID: 26613758 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-015-9991-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/31/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Pantanal is a huge floodplain mostly in Brazil, and its main economic activity is extensive cattle raising, in farms characterized by an extremely wildlife-rich environment. We herein describe tick infestations of cattle and of the natural environment in Pantanal of Nhecolândia in Brazil, at areas with and without cattle during both dry and wet seasons. Environmental sampling resulted in three tick species: Amblyomma sculptum (423 nymphs and 518 adults), Amblyomma parvum (7 nymphs and 129 adults), Amblyomma ovale (3 adults) as well as three clusters and two individuals of Amblyomma sp. larvae. A significantly higher number of adult A. sculptum ticks was found in areas with cattle in the wet season. From 106 examinations of bovines 1710 ticks from three species were collected: Rhipicephalus microplus (55.7% of the total), A. sculptum (38%) and A. parvum (4.1%), as well as 32 Amblyomma sp. larvae. A significant similarity was found between Amblyomma tick fauna from environment and on cattle during both seasons. All A. sculptum females on bovines were flat whereas many of A. parvum females and A. sculptum nymphs were engorging. Although R. microplus was the most abundant tick species on cattle, overall highest tick prevalence on bovines in the dry season was of A. sculptum nymphs. Lack of R. microplus in environmental sampling, relationship between cattle and increase in adult A. sculptum numbers in the environment as well as suitability of bovine for the various tick species are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa N Ramos
- Programa de Pós-doutorado, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, CEP 05508-270, Brazil.
| | - Ubiratan Piovezan
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária - Embrapa Pantanal, Corumbá, MS, Brazil
| | | | - Vinicius S Rodrigues
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Santiago Nava
- Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, Estación Experimental Agropecuaria Rafaela, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Matias P J Szabó
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Brazilian Spotted Fever with an Approach in Veterinary Medicine and One Health Perspective. Vet Med Int 2016; 2016:2430945. [PMID: 26881183 PMCID: PMC4736996 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2430945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing interaction between man and pathogens transmitted by arthropods, especially by ticks. It is on this background that a holistic approach stands out, for the sake of Public Health. Brazilian Spotted Fever is an endemic disease at the country's southeast, with Amblyomma sculptum as its major contributor, followed by A. aureolatum and potentially Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Dogs have been considered sentinels, and in some areas the disease in dogs can precede human disease. Considering the importance of this disease for human health, the serological evidence in dogs, and the transmission of ticks between dogs and their owners, this review aimed to elucidate the importance of the epidemiological investigation, the diagnosis in dogs, and the role of veterinarians in Public Health to control vector-borne zoonotic diseases. We encourage veterinarians to include this rickettsial infection in the diagnosis of febrile diseases of common occurrence in dogs.
Collapse
|
47
|
Prochno HC, Scorsin LM, De Melo FR, Baldani CD, Falbo MK, de Aquino LCT, Lemos KR. Seroprevalence rates of antibodies against Theileria equi in team roping horses from central-western region of Paraná. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 23:85-9. [PMID: 24728366 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612014012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of Theileria equi in horses from central western region of Paraná state, Brazil. The presence of antibodies IgG against T. equi was determined in serum samples obtained from 400 team roping horses of the district of Guarapuava by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results showed that 242 (61%) animals were positive which demonstrates that equine piroplasmosis is widespread and therefore it might be a contributing factor for the irregular performance among athletes horses in the region studied. No association regarding age and sex were observed (p>0.05). To our knowledge, this is the first report describing a serological survey on equine piroplasmosis in the state of Paraná, Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Carolina Prochno
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste do Paraná ? UNICENTRO, Guarapuava, PR, Brasil
| | - Lucas Milléo Scorsin
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste do Paraná ? UNICENTRO, Guarapuava, PR, Brasil
| | - Fatiane Rodrigues De Melo
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste do Paraná ? UNICENTRO, Guarapuava, PR, Brasil
| | - Cristiane Divan Baldani
- Instituto de Veterinária ? DMCV, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro ?UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
| | - Margarete Kimie Falbo
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste do Paraná ? UNICENTRO, Guarapuava, PR, Brasil
| | | | - Karen Regina Lemos
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste do Paraná ? UNICENTRO, Guarapuava, PR, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis is a disease of Equidae, including horses, donkeys, mules, and zebras, caused by either of two protozoan parasites, Theileria equi or Babesia caballi. These parasites are biologically transmitted between hosts via tick vectors, and although they have inherent differences they are categorized together because they cause similar pathology and have similar morphologies, life cycles, and vector relationships. To complete their life cycle, these parasites must undergo a complex series of developmental events, including sexual-stage development in their tick vectors. Consequently, ticks are the definitive hosts as well as vectors for these parasites, and the vector relationship is restricted to a few competent tick species. Because the vector relationship is critical to the epidemiology of these parasites, we highlight current knowledge of the vector ecology of these tick-borne equine pathogens, emphasizing tick transmissibility and potential control strategies to prevent their spread.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Glen A Scoles
- Animal Diseases Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Pullman, Washington 99164; ,
| | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Souza CED, Pinter A, Donalisio MR. Risk factors associated with the transmission of Brazilian spotted fever in the Piracicaba river basin, State of São Paulo, Brazil. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2015; 48:11-7. [PMID: 25860458 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0281-2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Brazilian spotted fever (BSF) is a disease transmitted by ticks for which the etiological agent is Rickettsia rickettsii. The present essay evaluates the risk factors associated with the transmission of cases of BSF in the time period between 2003 and 2013 in the Piracicaba river basin, state of São Paulo. METHODS This essay presents a retrospective study to identify the factors associated with the transmission of cases of BSF among all suspected cases identified by the System for Epidemiological Surveillance of São Paulo (CVE). After the description of temporal distribution (onset of symptoms) and the environmental and demographic variations of the confirmed and discarded cases, a multiple logistic regression model was applied. RESULTS We searched 569 probable locations of infection (PLI) with 210 (37%) confirmed cases of BSF and 359 (63%) discarded cases. The associated variables for the confirmation of BSF in the multiple logistic model using a confidence interval (CI) of 95% were age (OR = 1.025 CI: 1.015-1.035), the presence of Amblyomma sculptum in the environment (OR = 1.629 CI: 1.097-2.439), the collection of ticks from horses (OR = 1.939 CI: 0.999-3.764), the presence of capybaras (OR = 1.467 CI: 1.009-2.138), an urban environment (OR = 1.515 CI: 1.036-2.231), and the existence of a dirty pasture (OR = 1.759 CI: 1.028-3.003). CONCLUSIONS The factors associated with the confirmation of BSF cases included an urban environment, age, presence of the A. sculptum vector, the collection of ticks from horses, the presence of a capybara population, and a dirty pasture environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celso Eduardo de Souza
- Laboratório de Carrapatos, Superintendência de Controle de Endemias, Mogi Guaçu, SP, Brazil
| | - Adriano Pinter
- Coordenação dos Laboratórios de Referência e Desenvolvimento Científico, Superintendência de Controle de Endemias, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Rita Donalisio
- Departamento de Saúde Coletiva, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Ramos VDN, Piovezan U, Franco AHA, Osava CF, Herrera HM, Szabó MPJ. Feral pigs as hosts for Amblyomma sculptum (Acari: Ixodidae) populations in the Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2014; 64:393-406. [PMID: 25037743 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-014-9832-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The Pantanal in Brazil is the largest floodplain of the world. This ecosystem, rich in wildlife, has a large feral pig population. Such a large host biomass must have a strong influence on the parasite fauna. In this work, we evaluated the role of feral pigs in the maintenance of Amblyomma sculptum (formerly Amblyomma cajennense), the most prevalent tick species in the Pantanal. Tick infestations were evaluated on 243 feral pigs and their environment. The suitability of domestic pigs, representing their feral relatives, to A. sculptum adults and nymphs was assessed experimentally. Tick infestation of feral pigs was strongly associated with that of the environment: 96 and 97 % of the ticks, respectively, were A. sculptum. The infestation prevalence on this host species was close to 90 % in the dry season and 100 % in the wet season and mean infestation intensity was above 30 ticks in both seasons. Suitability of pigs as hosts for A. sculptum was shown by the high proportion of nymphs and female ticks found engorging on captured feral pigs and adequate biological parameters displayed by ticks from experimental infestations of domestic pigs. Other tick species on feral pigs, albeit in much lower numbers, were Amblyomma parvum and Ornithodorus rostratus. Results show that feral pigs feed a high proportion of the A. sculptum adults and nymphs in their territories and should be a target for tick-borne diseases studies. This is particularly relevant to public health because all the main tick species found on feral pigs are aggressive to humans as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa do Nascimento Ramos
- Laboratório de Ixodologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720/Campus Umuarama-Bloco 2T, Uberlândia, MG, 38400-902, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|