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Jayatilaka PS, Ranatunga RAS, Wijerathna HSU, Fernando ADS, Jinarathne KMH, Naullage NGRK, Silva SNS, Thananjayan K, Amarasiri LKHRT, Jayasundara NPK, Mallawa MCK, Dangolla A, Iddamaldeniya SS, Samarakoon SMNS, Dayananda AGMLK, Nazeem AMM, Rajakaruna RS. Canine vector-borne infections of working dogs of the Sri Lanka Air Force, and free roaming, and privately owned dogs. Sci Rep 2024; 14:23355. [PMID: 39375382 PMCID: PMC11458585 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-71148-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Canine vector-borne infections (CVBIs) are a global health problem. The military working dogs of Sri Lanka die at an early age, and CVBIs have been a leading speculated cause. We examined CVBIs in the working dogs of the Sri Lanka air force (SLAF) and free-roaming dogs (FRDs) and privately owned dogs (PODs) country-wide. Giemsa-stained smears were prepared and conventional PCR-positive DNA was subjected to sequencing and phylogeny. Of the 668 dogs sampled, 212 (31.7%) had one or more CVBIs. The prevalence of infections among the FRDs (40.0%) was significantly higher than SLAF working dogs (30.0%; χ2 = 10.5216; p = 0.0012) and PODs (26.2%; χ2 = 5.3414, p = 0.0208) but not between SLAF dogs and PODs (χ2 = 1.7655, p = 0.1838). Many infected dogs were asymptomatic (57.4%), which was higher among the FRDs. Seven infectious agents were identified: Babesia gibsoni, B. canis, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys, Leishmania sp., Hepatozoon canis, and filaria worms. The most common infection was B. gibsoni (13.8%), followed by E. canis (9.9%). Three tick species: Rhipicephalus linneai, Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides and Haemophysalis bispinosa were found infesting the dogs. The SLAF dogs were thoroughly quarantined upon arrival, but the infection prevalence was similar to PODs.
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Affiliation(s)
- P S Jayatilaka
- Sri Lanka Air Force, Katunayake, Sri Lanka
- Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - R A S Ranatunga
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - N P K Jayasundara
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - M C K Mallawa
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - A Dangolla
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | | | - S M N S Samarakoon
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - A G M L K Dayananda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - A M M Nazeem
- SN308 The Gardens, OIST, Kunigami District, Onna Village, 1919-1 Tancha, Okinawa, Japan
| | - R S Rajakaruna
- Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
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Cloete HPP, Rautenbach Y, Leisewitz AL, Mellanby RJ, Thompson PN, Schoeman JP. Prevalence of co-infections with Ehrlichia spp. or Theileria spp. in dogs naturally infected with babesiosis in the Eastern Cape province. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 54:101092. [PMID: 39237242 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.101092] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine babesiosis and ehrlichiosis are tick-borne infections of great significance in South Africa. Theileriosis in dogs in South Africa is still poorly understood. Co-infection with multiple tick-borne diseases has been documented and is perceived as a common occurrence in South Africa. OBJECTIVES The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of co-infections with Ehrlichia canis or Theileria equi in dogs with babesiosis in the Eastern Cape province. There is a lack of data on canine tick-borne disease distribution in this region. Possible associations of population characteristics and haematological and biochemistry measures with a co-infection of E. canis or T. equi in these dogs were also investigated. METHOD The study population included 150 dogs naturally infected with babesiosis that presented to the Mdantsane State Veterinary Clinic between January 2021 and November 2021. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to confirm the Babesia spp. that the dogs were infected with and to identify co-infections. Association with co-infection for the following parameters were evaluated: sex, breed, age, duration of illness, leukocyte count, band neutrophil count, monocyte count, platelet count, ARC, and serum globulin concentration. Positive and negative predictive values of monocytosis, leukopenia, band neutrophilia, thrombocytopenia, and non-regenerative absolute reticulocyte count for co-infection were also calculated. RESULTS Babesia rossi was identified in 149/150 samples and B. vogeli in only 1/150 samples. A co-infection prevalence of 2.0% (3/149; 95% CI: 0.4-5.7) with B. rossi and E. canis was found. No other co-infections were reported. No investigated variables showed significant associations with co-infections. Monocytosis, in particular, was not associated with co-infection. CONCLUSION Co-infection with other tick-borne diseases in dogs with babesiosis is uncommon in the Eastern Cape province. These findings raise the possibility that B. rossi may have a protective effect against other tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry P P Cloete
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa; Department of Small Animal Clinical Science, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZX, United Kingdom.
| | - Yolandi Rautenbach
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| | - Andrew L Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa; Department of Clinical Studies, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, 1130 Wire Road, Auburn, AL 36849, United States of America
| | - Richard J Mellanby
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Campus, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Peter N Thompson
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| | - Johan P Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
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Singh H, Padmaja M, Thomas AM, Panwar H, Nasrul SI, Jyoti, Singh NK. Molecular Survey of Tick-Borne Haemoparasites of Dogs by Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction from Punjab, India. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1458-1470. [PMID: 39150582 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00856-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tick-transmitted parasites as Babesia gibsoni, Babesia vogeli, Ehrlichia canis, and Hepatozoon canis are major health concern for dogs. Owing to prevalence and infection severity, there is need of sensitive, specific, and affordable test for their simultaneous detection. METHODS Prevalence of B. gibsoni, B. vogeli, E. canis, and H. canis infections was assessed on 719 blood samples by microscopy and multiplex PCR assay targeting 18S rRNA (B. gibsoni & H. canis), ITS1 & 5.8S rRNA (B. vogeli) and VirB9 gene (E. canis). An internal control (canine-actin) was also included to increase the accuracy of assay and effect of associated risk factors with disease prevalence was also studied. RESULTS Microscopic prevalence of B. gibsoni, B. vogeli, E. canis and H. canis was 5.0%, 0.1%, 1.4% and 1.0%, respectively, whereas with multiplex PCR assay, the corresponding values were 8.9%, 1.1%, 2.6% and 5.1% besides concurrent infections of B. gibsoni & H. canis (0.4%), B. gibsoni & E. canis (0.4%), E. canis & H. canis (0.3%) and B. gibsoni & B. vogeli (0.1%). Analytical sensitivity of developed assay was 0.1pg (B. gibsoni & H. canis), 0.01pg (B. vogeli), and 1.0pg (E. canis). A ″fair″ (B. vogeli & H. canis) to ″substantial″ (B. gibsoni & E. canis) agreement between two tests was observed with data as statistically significant. Breed, sex and location were significantly associated with B. gibsoni infection. CONCLUSION The developed multiplex PCR assay offers a potential solution to detect these pathogens simultaneously, aiding in timely diagnosis and effective disease management in suspected dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harkirat Singh
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana,, Punjab, India.
| | - M Padmaja
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana,, Punjab, India
| | - Aparna M Thomas
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana,, Punjab, India
| | - Harsh Panwar
- Department of Dairy Microbiology, College of Dairy & Food Science Technology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana,, Punjab, India
| | - Shaikh I Nasrul
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana,, Punjab, India
| | - Jyoti
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana,, Punjab, India
| | - Nirbhay K Singh
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana,, Punjab, India
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Chao LL, Ko PY, Shih CM. Molecular Screening and Genetic Identification of Anaplasma platys in Brown Dog Tick ( Rhipicephalus sanguineus s. l.) Infested on Stray Dogs in Taiwan. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1779. [PMID: 39338454 PMCID: PMC11434520 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12091779] [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: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Anaplasma platys is a tick-borne zoonotic pathogen of canines. In this study, the presence of A. platys was screened for in brown dog ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus s. l.) infesting stray dogs in Taiwan to determine overall prevalence. This study represents the first instance of genetic identification of A. platys in brown dog ticks in Taiwan. In total, we examined 324 brown dog ticks for A. platys infection by nested polymerase chain reaction assay targeting the 16S ribosomal RNA gene. The general prevalence of A. platys infection was 3.1%, with 3.6%, 4.0%, and 2.1% in nymph, female, and male ticks, respectively. Monthly prevalence of infection was observed from May to September. Genetic relatedness was determined by comparing the sequences of the 16S rRNA gene obtained from six Taiwan strains and seventeen other strains, representing six genospecies of Anaplasma spp. and three outgroups (Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia rickettsia, and Escherichia coli). All Taiwan specimens were shown to genetically belong to the A. platys group, and could be clearly discriminated from other Anaplasma spp. Genetic similarities revealed a 100% identity match with various A. platys documented in GenBank. This study highlights the epidemiological importance of geographical transmission of A. platys among dogs and the possible risk for human infections in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Lian Chao
- M.Sc. Program in Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yin Ko
- Graduate Institute of Pathology and Parasitology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Ming Shih
- M.Sc. Program in Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Pathology and Parasitology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114201, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807377, Taiwan
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Madan N, Azhahianambi P, Babu RPA, Gayen N, Tirumurugaan KG, Sridhar R, Soundararajan C. First report of occurrence of Babesia gibsoni in captive Indian wolves. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 53:101071. [PMID: 39025542 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.101071] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Blood samples from fifteen captive Indian wolves (Canis lupus pallipes) maintained at Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Vandalur, Chennai were screened for the presence of Babesia spp., Ehrlichia canis and Trypnosoma evansi DNA by PCR. Out of 15 wolf samples, 3 samples were found positive for Babesia spp. The amplified 18S rRNA gene fragments from 3 wolves were sequenced and confirmed as Babesia gibsoni. A maximum likelihood tree was constructed using the three sequences along with other Babesia spp. sequences derived from GenBank adopting HKY nucleotide substitution model based on the Bayesian Information Criterion. The phylogenetic analysis confirmed that the three sequences were of Babesia gibsoni and highly divergent from Babesia canis, B. vogeli and B. vulpes. This might be a possible spill over event of B. gibsoni from community dogs through blood feeding dog ticks. This is the first report and molecular confirmation of B. gibsoni infection in captive Indian wolves.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Madan
- Translational Research Platform for Veterinary Biologicals, Centre for Animal Health Studies, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai 600051, India
| | - P Azhahianambi
- Translational Research Platform for Veterinary Biologicals, Centre for Animal Health Studies, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai 600051, India.
| | - R P Aravindh Babu
- Translational Research Platform for Veterinary Biologicals, Centre for Animal Health Studies, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai 600051, India
| | - Neelanjana Gayen
- Translational Research Platform for Veterinary Biologicals, Centre for Animal Health Studies, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai 600051, India
| | - K G Tirumurugaan
- Translational Research Platform for Veterinary Biologicals, Centre for Animal Health Studies, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai 600051, India
| | - R Sridhar
- Central University Laboratory, Centre for Animal Health Studies, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai 600 051, India
| | - C Soundararajan
- Centre for Animal Health Studies, Tamil TableNadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai 600 051, India
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Amato A, Cavallo C, Marín-García PJ, Emmanuele G, Tomasello M, Tomasella C, Floridia V, Liotta L, Llobat L. Effect of Breed on Hematological and Biochemical Parameters of Apparently Healthy Dogs Infected with Zoonotic Pathogens Endemic to the Mediterranean Basin. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1516. [PMID: 38891563 PMCID: PMC11171318 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111516] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Dogs are considered the main reservoir of several zoonoses endemic to the Mediterranean Basin. In this study, a prevalence of infections and coinfections of canine vector-borne diseases was analyzed in apparently healthy dogs of different canine pure breeds in Sicily (Italy), where these diseases are endemic. The seroprevalence of Leishmania infantum, Ricketsia ricketsii, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Erlichia canis was assessed, as single and coinfections. Biochemical and hematological parameters were evaluated, and epidemiological factors, including sex, age, and canine breed, were recovered. The most frequent infection was L. infantum (45.61%), following R. ricketsii (36.84%), both as single, double, or triple coinfections. Coinfections change the biochemical and hematological parameters of the host, and canine breeds are related to the infection frequency and the parameters observed during infections. Changes in the complete blood count (CBC) and biochemical values also differ between canine breeds, with the Cirneco dell'Etna dogs infected with L. infantum being the animals presenting the most interesting results in our study. High values of RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), the albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio, and albumin and low levels of β-2 globulin and γ-globulin were found only in this canine breed, suggesting some resistance to infection in these dogs. Future studies about the immune response of this canine breed could be interesting to determine their possible resistance to zoonotic pathogens, such as L. infantum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Amato
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Carmelo Cavallo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Pablo Jesús Marín-García
- Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Giovanni Emmanuele
- BIOGENE, Veterinary Diagnostic Center, 95127 Catania, Italy; (G.E.); (M.T.); (C.T.)
| | - Mario Tomasello
- BIOGENE, Veterinary Diagnostic Center, 95127 Catania, Italy; (G.E.); (M.T.); (C.T.)
| | - Cristina Tomasella
- BIOGENE, Veterinary Diagnostic Center, 95127 Catania, Italy; (G.E.); (M.T.); (C.T.)
| | - Viviana Floridia
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Luigi Liotta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Lola Llobat
- Molecular Mechanisns of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research Group, Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain
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Traversa D, Di Cesare A, Morelli S, Paoletti B, Grillini M, di Regalbono AF, da Silva de Mattos Queiroz A, Beugnet F, Brustenga L, Milillo P, Antunes Barros L. Hepatozoon spp. in stray cats from the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Parasite 2024; 31:24. [PMID: 38759154 PMCID: PMC11101202 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2024026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In the last few years, the number of studies on feline hepatozoonosis has increased, but our knowledge on the actual species of Hepatozoon and/or different genotypes affecting felines is still incipient. At least three species, namely Hepatozoon felis, H. canis, and H. silvestris, have been isolated from domestic cats in various countries. Additionally, there are indications that other species and genotypes may affect felines in given geographic areas. This study was carried out to investigate the occurrence of Hepatozoon spp. in cats from Niterói, a municipality within the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Individual blood samples were collected from 28 cats enrolled in a spaying/castration program. DNA was extracted from all samples and subjected to sequencing specific for Hepatozoon spp. DNA of H. felis was found in 21/28 cats (75%), and four genetic polymorphisms never described thus far were detected. This is the first report of H. felis in cats living in the State of Rio de Janeiro, and the present data confirm that H. felis is a species complex encompassing different genotypes circulating within cat populations. Further studies are warranted to investigate whether different genotypes have different biology or pathogenicity for felids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donato Traversa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo 64100 Teramo Italy
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo 64100 Teramo Italy
| | - Simone Morelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo 64100 Teramo Italy
| | - Barbara Paoletti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo 64100 Teramo Italy
| | - Marika Grillini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova 35020 Padova Italy
| | | | - Aline da Silva de Mattos Queiroz
- Veterinary University Hospital Universitário Professor Firmino Mársico Filho, Fluminense Federal University Niterói RJ 24230-321 Brazil
| | - Frederic Beugnet
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health 29 Avenue Tony Garnier 69007 Lyon France
| | - Leonardo Brustenga
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia 06126 Perugia Italy
| | | | - Luciano Antunes Barros
- Department of Veterinary Collective Health and Public Health, Fluminense Federal University Niterói RJ 24220-000 Brazil
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Charles RA, Pow-Brown P, Gordon-Dillon A, Blake L, Nicholls S, Brown-Jordan A, Caruth J, Sant C, Pargass I, Basu A, Albina E, Oura C, Georges K. Completing the Puzzle: A Cluster of Hunting Dogs with Tick-Borne Illness from a Fishing Community in Tobago, West Indies. Pathogens 2024; 13:161. [PMID: 38392899 PMCID: PMC10891510 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020161] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Eight hunting dogs were visited by a state veterinarian on the island of Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies, as owners reported anorexia and paralysis in five of their dogs. The veterinarian observed a combination of clinical signs consistent with tick-borne illness, including fever, anorexia, anaemia, lethargy and paralysis. Blood and ticks were collected from each dog and submitted to a diagnostic laboratory for analysis. Microscopic analysis revealed a mixed infection of intracytoplasmic organisms consistent with Babesia spp. (erythrocyte) and Ehrlichia spp. (monocyte), respectively, from one dog, while a complete blood count indicated a regenerative anaemia (n = 1; 12.5%), non-regenerative anaemia (n = 4; 50%), neutrophilia (n = 3; 37.5%), lymphocytosis (n = 2; 25%), thrombocytopaenia (n = 3; 37.5%) and pancytopaenia (n = 1; 12.5%). DNA isolated from the eight blood samples and 20 ticks (16 Rhipicephalus sanguineus and 4 Amblyomma ovale) were subjected to conventional PCR and next-generation sequencing of the 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA gene for Anaplasma/Ehrlichia and Babesia/Theileria/Hepatozoon, respectively. The DNA of Ehrlichia spp., closely related to Ehrlichia canis, was detected in the blood of three dogs (37.5%), Anaplasma spp., closely related to Anaplasma marginale, in two (25%), Babesia vogeli in one dog (12.5%) and seven ticks (35%) and Hepatozoon canis and Anaplasma spp., in one tick (5%), respectively. These findings highlight the need to test both the vector and host for the presence of tick-borne pathogens when undertaking diagnostic investigations. Further studies are also warranted to elucidate the susceptibility of canids to Anaplasma marginale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne A. Charles
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Patricia Pow-Brown
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Annika Gordon-Dillon
- Animal Health Unit, Division of Food Security, Natural Resources, The Environment and Sustainable Development, Tobago House of Assembly, Milshirv Administrative Complex, Corner Milford & Shirvan Road, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago; (A.G.-D.); (J.C.)
| | - Lemar Blake
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Soren Nicholls
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (S.N.); (A.B.-J.)
| | - Arianne Brown-Jordan
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (S.N.); (A.B.-J.)
| | - Joanne Caruth
- Animal Health Unit, Division of Food Security, Natural Resources, The Environment and Sustainable Development, Tobago House of Assembly, Milshirv Administrative Complex, Corner Milford & Shirvan Road, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago; (A.G.-D.); (J.C.)
| | - Candice Sant
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Indira Pargass
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Asoke Basu
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Emmanuel Albina
- Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD), DGDRS, 34000 Montpellier, France;
| | - Christopher Oura
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
| | - Karla Georges
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; (P.P.-B.); (L.B.); (C.S.); (I.P.); (A.B.); (C.O.); (K.G.)
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CHIKUFENJI B, CHATANGA E, GALON EM, MOHANTA UK, MDZUKULU G, MA Y, NKHATA M, UMEMIYA-SHIRAFUJI R, XUAN X. First report of dog ticks and tick-borne pathogens they are carrying in Malawi. J Vet Med Sci 2024; 86:150-159. [PMID: 38171881 PMCID: PMC10898992 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0397] [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: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Ticks are vectors for transmitting tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in animals and humans. Therefore, tick identification is necessary to understand the distribution of tick species and the pathogens they carry. Unfortunately, data on dog ticks and the TBPs they harbor in Malawi are incomplete. This study aimed to identify dog ticks and the TBPs they transmit in Malawi. One hundred thirty-two ticks were collected from 87 apparently healthy but infested domestic dogs in four districts of Malawi, which were pooled into 128 tick samples. The ticks were morphologically identified under a stereomicroscope using identification keys, and species identification was authenticated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) through the amplification and sequencing of 12S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (CO1) genes. The tick species identified were Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (58.3%), Haemaphysalis elliptica (32.6%), and Hyalomma truncatum (9.1%). Screening for TBPs using species-specific PCR assays revealed that 48.4% of the ticks were infected with at least one TBP. The TBP detection rates were 13.3% for Anaplasma platys, 10.2% for Babesia rossi, 8.6% for B. vogeli, 6.3% for Ehrlichia canis, 3.9% for A. phagocytophilum, 3.1% for B. gibsoni, 2.3% for B. canis and 0.8% for Hepatozoon canis. Co-infections of up to three pathogens were observed in 48.4% of the positive samples. This is the first study to identify dog ticks and the TBPs they harbor in Malawi. These findings provide the basis for understanding dog tick distribution and pathogens they carry in Malawi. This study necessitates the examination of ticks from more study locations to have a better picture of tick challenge, and the development of ticks and tick-borne disease control methods in Malawi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boniface CHIKUFENJI
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro
University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
- Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development,
Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Vets of Purpose Organization, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Elisha CHATANGA
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary
Medicine, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Eloiza May GALON
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro
University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences,
Cavite State University, Cavite, Philippines
| | - Uday Kumar MOHANTA
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro
University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Sher-e-Bangla
Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Gift MDZUKULU
- Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development,
Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Yihong MA
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro
University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Rika UMEMIYA-SHIRAFUJI
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro
University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Xuenan XUAN
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro
University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
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10
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Afonso P, Lopes AP, Quintas H, Cardoso L, Coelho AC. Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia conorii Infections in Shelter Dogs: Seropositivity and Implications for Public Health. Pathogens 2024; 13:129. [PMID: 38392867 PMCID: PMC10893242 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020129] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was conducted to gain insight into the epidemiology of canine ehrlichiosis and rickettsiosis in northern Portugal. Specific IgG antibodies to Ehrlichia canis were analysed using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and antibodies to Rickettsia conorii were analysed using a commercial indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT). A total of 113 dogs from two different shelters were sampled, and seroprevalence values of 0.9% (95% confidence (CI): 0.2-4.8%) for E. canis and 9.7 (95% CI: 5.5-16.6%) for R. conorii were found. Multiple logistic regression investigated risk factors for seropositivity. The odds ratios (ORs) of R. conorii seropositivity were higher for female dogs (OR = 6.429; 95% CI: 1.201-34.407). Dogs seropositive for co-infection (E. canis + R. conorii) were more frequently observed among females (OR = 7.606; CI 95%: 1.478-39.132) and in Shelter 2 (OR = 18.229; 95% CI: 2.190-151.756). These findings show that shelter dogs in northern Portugal are exposed to E. canis and R. conorii, which can affect both canines and humans. It is imperative to adopt a One Health approach to educate the public about the hazards of canine zoonoses and develop legislation and procedures to control their spread and preserve public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Afonso
- CECAV—Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (P.A.); (A.P.L.); (A.C.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal;
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Ana Patrícia Lopes
- CECAV—Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (P.A.); (A.P.L.); (A.C.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Hélder Quintas
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal;
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- CECAV—Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (P.A.); (A.P.L.); (A.C.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ana Cláudia Coelho
- CECAV—Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (P.A.); (A.P.L.); (A.C.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
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11
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Sipari S, Kiljunen M, Nylund M, Kallio ER. Identifying breeding hosts of Ixodes ricinus ticks using stable isotope analysis of their larvae - Proof of concept. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2024; 15:102252. [PMID: 37741086 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are important vectors of zoonotic pathogens. Ticks are parasites that are dependent on their hosts for blood meal to develop and reproduce. The abundance of ticks is dependent on the availability of suitable breeding hosts, often medium- and large-sized mammals. So far there has been a shortage of direct methods identifying the breeding hosts for the female ticks. In this study, we introduce a stable isotope analysis (SIA) method that enables us to identify the trophic group of the breeding host, i.e. the host on which the tick mother fed, by sampling larval ticks from the field. We established a reference database on the stable isotope (SI) values (δ13C and δ15N) of the blood of potential tick host species, and of larvae from Ixodes ricinus females, which have fed on known hosts. By comparing the SI values from field collected larval ticks to our reference data, we can determine their most likely host species group. Our results show that the isotopic signatures of I. ricinus tick larvae reflect the diet of the breeding host of the mother tick. SIA proved reliable in categorizing the breeding hosts of I. ricinus into two distinguishable trophic groups; herbivores and carni-omnivores. To our knowledge, this is the first time that stable isotope analyses have been applied to detect transovarial (i.e. over-generational) traces of a blood meal in ticks. The method provides an efficient, novel tool for directly identifying tick breeding hosts by sampling field collected larvae. Ixodes ricinus is the most important vector of TBPs (tick-borne pathogens) in Europe, and to predict and mitigate against the future risks that TBPs pose, it is crucial to have detailed knowledge on the hosts that support tick reproduction in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saana Sipari
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Republic of Finland.
| | - Mikko Kiljunen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Republic of Finland
| | - Minna Nylund
- Animal Health and Diagnostic Unit, Finnish Food Safety Authority, Republic of Finland
| | - Eva R Kallio
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Republic of Finland
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12
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Edana GG, Preena P, Balan C, Sarangom SB, Vijayakumar K. Hematological characteristics of autochthonous hypermicrofilaremic dirofilariosis in dogs in Kannur District of Kerala. J Parasit Dis 2023; 47:787-792. [PMID: 38009152 PMCID: PMC10667202 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-023-01622-6] [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: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine whether autochthonous high-intensity D. repens microfilaremia leads to haematological changes in companion dogs. Dogs with hypermicrofilaremia presented to the District Veterinary Centre, Kannur were selected for the study. A total of 100 dogs were positive for hypermicrofilariaemia with D. repens based on peripheral blood smear examination and Knott's test. Of these, 3 dogs were concurrently positive for sheathed microfilaria (MF) of Brugia spp. Interestingly, an adult live worm of D. repens approximately eight cm in length was detected on a subcutaneous mass on the hind limb of a hypermicrofilaremic dog in the study. We compared the hematological parameters of 100 autochthonous hypermicrofilaremic dogs and 15 uninfected dogs. The hematological findings in the study are mild to moderate anemia, moderate to severe thrombocytopenia, leucocytosis with granulocytosis, lymphocytosis and monocytosis as compared to the uninfected group of dogs. The pathogenicity of naturally occurring hypermicrofilaremia is poorly studied, and knowledge of its epidemiology, host-parasite relationship and impact on various organs is warranted for better prevention and control, especially in hot-spot areas. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12639-023-01622-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgen G. Edana
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mannuthy, 680 651 Kerala India
| | - P. Preena
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mannuthy, 680 651 Kerala India
| | - C. Balan
- Department of Animal Husbandry Statistics and Computer Applications, Madras Veterinary College (TANUVAS), Chennai, 600 007 India
| | - Sherin B. Sarangom
- Department of Animal Husbandry, District Veterinary Centre, Kannur, Kerala 670 001 India
| | - K. Vijayakumar
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mannuthy, 680 651 Kerala India
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13
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Ferreira FC, González J, Milholland MT, Tung GA, Fonseca DM. Ticks (Acari: Ixodida) on synanthropic small and medium-sized mammals in areas of the northeastern United States infested with the Asian longhorned tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis. Int J Parasitol 2023; 53:809-819. [PMID: 37467875 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
The northeastern United States (US) is a hotspot for tick-borne diseases. Adding to an already complex vector landscape, in 2017 large populations of the invasive Haemaphysalis longicornis, the Asian longhorned tick, were detected in New Jersey (NJ) and later found to be widespread from Connecticut to Georgia. In its native range in northeastern Asia, H. longicornis is considered an important vector of deadly pathogens to humans, companion animals, and livestock. To identify the primary hosts of H. longicornis, we surveyed synanthropic small and medium-sized mammals in three different sites in suburban New Brunswick, NJ. Specifically, we collected approximately 9,000 tick specimens belonging to nine species from 11 different species of mammals sampled between May and September 2021. We found that H. longicornis feeds more frequently on rodents than previously thought, and that this invasive tick is likely exposed to important enzootic and zoonotic pathogens. Overall, we obtained detailed information about the seasonal dynamics and feeding patterns of six tick species common in the northeastern US, Haemaphysalis longicornis, Amblyomma americanum, Dermacentor variabilis, Ixodes scapularis, Ixodes texanus and Ixodes cookei. We found that unlike I. scapularis that feeds on mammals of all sizes, H. longicornis feeds on hosts following the general pattern of A. americanum, favoring larger species such as skunks, groundhogs, and raccoons. However, our survey revealed that unlike A. americanum, H. longicornis reaches high densities on Virginia opossum. Overall, the newly invasive H. longicornis was the most numerous tick species, both on multiple host species and in the environment, raising significant questions regarding its role in the epidemiology of tick-borne pathogens, especially those affecting livestock, companion animals and wildlife. In conclusion, our findings provide valuable insights into the tick species composition on mammalian hosts in NJ and the ongoing national expansion of H. longicornis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco C Ferreira
- Center for Vector Biology, Entomology Department, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
| | - Julia González
- Center for Vector Biology, Entomology Department, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA. https://twitter.com/JulsGGlez
| | - Matthew T Milholland
- AGNR-Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Grayson A Tung
- Center for Vector Biology, Entomology Department, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Dina M Fonseca
- Center for Vector Biology, Entomology Department, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
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14
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Gonzaga BCF, Barrozo MM, Coutinho AL, Pereira E Sousa LJM, Vale FL, Marreto L, Marchesini P, de Castro Rodrigues D, de Souza EDF, Sabatini GA, Costa-Júnior LM, Ferreira LL, Lopes WDZ, Monteiro C. Essential oils and isolated compounds for tick control: advances beyond the laboratory. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:415. [PMID: 37964392 PMCID: PMC10647118 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05969-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tick control is a worldwide challenge due to its resistance to acaricides. Essential oils (EOs) and isolated compounds (EOCs) are potential alternatives for tick control technologies. METHODS A review with EOs and EOCs, under field and semi-field conditions, was performed based on Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed databases. Thirty-one studies published between 1991 and 2022 were selected. The search was performed using the following keywords: "essential oil" combined with "tick," "Ixodes," "Argas," "Rhipicephalus," "Amblyomma," "Hyalomma," "Dermacentor," "Haemaphysalis" and "Ornithodoros." The words "essential oil" and "tick" were searched in the singular and plural. RESULTS The number of studies increased over the years. Brazil stands out with the largest number (51.6%) of publications. The most studied tick species were Rhipicephalus microplus (48.4%), Ixodes scapularis (19.4%), Amblyomma americanum and R. sanguineus sensu lato (9.7% each). Cattle (70%) and dogs (13%) were the main target animal species. Regarding the application of EOs/EOCs formulations, 74% of the studies were conducted with topical application (spray, pour-on, foam, drop) and 26% with environmental treatment (spray). Efficacy results are difficult to evaluate because of the lack of information on the methodology and standardization. The nanotechnology and combination with synthetic acaricides were reported as an alternative to enhance the efficacy of EOs/EOCs. No adverse reactions were observed in 86.6% of the studies evaluating EOs/EOCs clinical safety. Studies regarding toxicity in non-target species and residues are scarce. CONCLUSIONS This article provides a comprehensive review on the use of EOs and EOCs to reduce tick infestations, in both the hosts and the environment. As future directions, we recommend the chemical characterization of EOs, methodology standardization, combination of EOs/EOCs with potential synergists, nanotechnology for new formulations and safety studies for target and non-target organisms, also considering the environmental friendliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno César Ferreira Gonzaga
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal - Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rodovia Goiânia - Nova Veneza, Km 8, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brasil
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus Colemar Natal e Silva, Rua 235, s/n, Setor Leste Universitário, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brasil
| | - Mayara Macêdo Barrozo
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal - Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rodovia Goiânia - Nova Veneza, Km 8, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brasil
| | - Ana Lúcia Coutinho
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal - Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rodovia Goiânia - Nova Veneza, Km 8, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brasil
| | - Lainny Jordana Martins Pereira E Sousa
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal - Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rodovia Goiânia - Nova Veneza, Km 8, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brasil
| | - Francisca Letícia Vale
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal - Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rodovia Goiânia - Nova Veneza, Km 8, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brasil
| | - Laís Marreto
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas - Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Praça Universitária, no. 1166, Setor Universitário, Goiânia, GO, 74605-220, Brasil
| | - Paula Marchesini
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal - Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rodovia Goiânia - Nova Veneza, Km 8, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Lívio Martins Costa-Júnior
- Centro de Pesquisas do CCBS, Universidade Federal do Maranhão, Avenida dos Portugueses, no. 1966, São Luís, MA, 65080-805, Brasil
| | - Lorena Lopes Ferreira
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva - Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, no. 6627, Campus Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brasil
| | - Welber Daniel Zanetti Lopes
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal - Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rodovia Goiânia - Nova Veneza, Km 8, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brasil
- Departamento de Biociências e Tecnologia - Instituto de Patologia Tropical e de Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás-, Campus Colemar Natal e Silva - Rua 235, s/n - Setor Leste Universitário, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brasil
| | - Caio Monteiro
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência Animal - Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rodovia Goiânia - Nova Veneza, Km 8, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brasil.
- Departamento de Biociências e Tecnologia - Instituto de Patologia Tropical e de Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás-, Campus Colemar Natal e Silva - Rua 235, s/n - Setor Leste Universitário, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brasil.
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15
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Cardenas-Cadena SA, Castañeda-Lopez ME, Mollinedo-Montaño FE, Vazquez-Reyes S, Lara-Arias J, Marino-Martinez IA, Rodriguez-Sanchez IP, Garza-Veloz I, Martinez-Fierro ML. Tick-Borne Pathogens Screening Using a Multiplex Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction-Based Method. Acta Parasitol 2023; 68:705-710. [PMID: 37531009 PMCID: PMC10462521 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00702-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to develop and evaluate a cost-effective, user-friendly multiplex quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method for detecting multiple tick-borne pathogens associated with human and veterinary diseases. METHODS In silico PCR was performed to design and evaluate primer sequences reported for amplifying Rickettsia spp., Borrelia spp., and Ehrlichia spp. Single and multiplex qPCR assays were then standardized to detect individual pathogens and multiple pathogens in a single reaction. Positive controls were generated to determine the dynamic range of the methods. In the validation phase, a total of 800 samples were screened for the presence of tick-borne pathogens. RESULTS Identification in a single qPCR reaction (multiplex) of Ehrlichia spp., and Borrelia spp. with a limit of detection of 10 copies and Rickettsia spp. with 100 copies, a PCR efficiency (E) of 90-100% and a coefficient of correlation (R2) of 0.998-0.996 for all pathogens. CONCLUSION The ability to detect three significant pathogens (Ehrlichia spp., Rickettsia spp., and Borrelia spp.) in a single qPCR reaction offers a significant advantage in the field of molecular diagnostics for tick-borne diseases. This advancement has a profound impact on public health as it facilitates the selection of appropriate treatment protocols, thereby reducing complications associated with disease progression. The streamlined approach provided by this method simplifies the diagnostic process and enables timely intervention, ultimately improving patient outcomes and mitigating the potential risks associated with untreated or misdiagnosed tick-borne infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Andres Cardenas-Cadena
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Unidad Académica de Medicina Humana y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Zacatecas, 98160, México
| | - Maria Eugenia Castañeda-Lopez
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Unidad Académica de Medicina Humana y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Zacatecas, 98160, México
| | - Fabiana Esther Mollinedo-Montaño
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Unidad Académica de Medicina Humana y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Zacatecas, 98160, México
| | - Sodel Vazquez-Reyes
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Unidad Académica de Medicina Humana y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Zacatecas, 98160, México
| | - Jorge Lara-Arias
- Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, Facultad de Medicina y Hospital Universitario 'Dr. José E. González', Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, 64460, México
| | - Ivan Alberto Marino-Martinez
- Experimental Therapies Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, 64460, México
| | - Iram Pablo Rodriguez-Sanchez
- Laboratory of Molecular and Structural Physiology, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, 66455, México
| | - Idalia Garza-Veloz
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Unidad Académica de Medicina Humana y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Zacatecas, 98160, México
| | - Margarita L Martinez-Fierro
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Unidad Académica de Medicina Humana y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Zacatecas, 98160, México.
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16
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Minervino AHH, Marcili A, Moraes-Filho J, Lima JTR, Soares HS, Malheiros AF, Dias SR, Gennari SM, Labruna MB. Molecular Detection of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Dogs from Indigenous Communities, Amazon, Brazil. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2023; 23:458-464. [PMID: 37566524 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0014] [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: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There are few reports of tick-borne pathogens infecting dogs living in indigenous communities of Brazil. Herein, we aimed to molecularly detect vector-borne pathogens in dogs from two indigenous communities in the Brazilian Amazon. Materials and Methods: We surveyed 327 dogs raised in Amazon region at 2 distinct indigenous ethnicities for the molecular detection of tick-borne pathogens (114 from Tapirapé and 213 from Karajá indigenous ethnicity). Whole blood samples were subjected to PCR and sequencing for Ehrlichia, Babesia, and Hepatozoon. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to investigate the factors affecting the pathogen infection patterns in dogs. Results: Among the 327 blood samples, 40 were positive for Ehrlichia canis (12.2%), 2 for Anaplasma platys (0.61%), and 204 were positive for Hepatozoon canis (66.5%). Binary Logistic Regression showed association between E. canis infection and ethnicity (p = 0.010) and tick attachment (p = 0.041). Karajá dogs were 3.4 times (95% CI 1.3-8.5) more likely to be positive for E. canis than Tapirapé dogs. Dogs with ticks were 2.5 times more likely (95% CI 1.0-7.6) to be positive for E. canis than dogs without ticks. Conclusions: Our survey expands the knowledge regarding the presence of vector-borne pathogens in dogs from indigenous communities in the Amazon region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arlei Marcili
- PhD Program in One Health, Santo Amaro University (UNISA), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jonas Moraes-Filho
- PhD Program in One Health, Santo Amaro University (UNISA), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia T R Lima
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Herbert S Soares
- PhD Program in One Health, Santo Amaro University (UNISA), São Paulo, Brazil
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio F Malheiros
- Faculty of Agricultural and Biological Sciences (FACAB), State University of Mato Grosso, Cáceres, Brazil
| | - Salatiel Ribeiro Dias
- Laboratory of Animal Health (LARSANA), Federal University of Western Pará (UFOPA), Santarém, Brazil
| | - Solange M Gennari
- PhD Program in One Health, Santo Amaro University (UNISA), São Paulo, Brazil
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo B Labruna
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Earnshaw N, Anderson N, Mackay J, Parker M. The health of working dogs in conservation in Africa. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1179278. [PMID: 37533460 PMCID: PMC10390733 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1179278] [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: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dogs are increasingly being employed for conservation purposes worldwide. In Africa, they work in challenging environments with unique health risks which have not been investigated until now. Methods To understand the health challenges faced by the dogs, semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants from 14 organisations that used working dogs in their conservation programmes. The data was qualitatively analysed by thematic analysis. Results Five themes were generated. Three affective themes influenced how participants responded to the challenges associated with having a successful conservation dog programme. A strong handler-dog attachment, proficient handler training, and the acknowledgement of the challenging environment were pivotal to maintaining dog health. Two themes related to the difficulties in managing these programmes and how veterinary support interacts with the management choices being made. Discussion To have healthy conservation dogs, current and future programmes should focus on fostering the handler-dog relationship and provide continuous handler training. The management of conservation dogs' health should adopt an evidence-based approach. Future research should focus on areas where the evidence base is lacking, particularly in the areas of prevention and treatment of African canine trypanosomiasis. Programmes should develop a good working relationship with a veterinarian that has access to evidence-based veterinary medical information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Earnshaw
- Department of Conservation Medicine, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Anderson
- Department of Conservation Medicine, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jill Mackay
- Department of Veterinary Medical Education, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Megan Parker
- The Center for Large Landscape Conservation, Bozeman, MT, United States
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Zeb J, Song B, Khan MA, Senbill H, Aziz MU, Hussain S, Waris A, E-Tabor A, Sparagano OA. Genetic diversity of vector-borne pathogens in ixodid ticks infesting dogs from Pakistan with notes on Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia raoultii and Dirofilaria immitis detection. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:214. [PMID: 37381006 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05804-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vector-/tick-borne pathogens (V/TBPs) pose a potential threat to human and animal health globally. Information regarding canine V/TBPs is scarce and no specific study has been conducted so far to explore the microbial diversity within ticks infesting dogs from Pakistan. Herein, this knowledge gap is addressed by assessing the genetic diversity and prevalence pattern of V/TBPs in ixodid ticks with special implications for public and canine health. METHODS A total of 1150 hard ticks were collected from 300 dogs across central Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. After morpho-molecular identification, 120 tick samples were screened for the presence of V/TBPs by amplifying 16S rRNA/gltA (Rickettsia/Ehrlichia and Wolbachia sp.), 18S rRNA (Theileria sp.) and cox1 (Dirofilaria sp.) genes through PCR followed by sequencing and phylogenetic study. RESULTS In toto, 50 ixodid ticks (50/120, 41.7%) were found positive for V/TBPs DNA. The detected V/TBPs were categorized into five genera and eight species, viz. Ehrlichia (E. canis and Ehrlichia sp.), Rickettsia (R. massiliae, R. raoultii and Rickettsia sp.), Theileria (T. annulata), Dirofilaria (D. immitis) and Wolbachia (Wolbachia sp.). The pathogen prevalence patterns showed that R. massiliae was the most prevalent zoonotic V/TBP (19.5%), followed by E. canis (10.8%), Rickettsia sp. (7.5%), R. raoultii (6.7%), T. annulata (5.8%), D. immitis (5.8%), Wolbachia sp. (4.2%) and Ehrlichia sp. (3.3%), respectively. Among the screened tick species, most Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato samples were found positive for V/TBP DNA (20/20,100%) followed by Rh. turanicus sensu stricto (13/20, 65%), Hyalomma dromedarii (8/20, 40%), Rh. haemaphysaloides (6/20, 30%), Hy. excavatum (2/20, 10%) and Rh. microplus (1/20, 5%). Co-occurrence of V/TBP was also detected in tick specimens (single V/TBP infection: 32 ticks; double and triple: 13 and 5 tick samples). The detected pathogens shared a phylogenetic relationship with similar isolates published in NCBI GenBank from Old and New World countries. CONCLUSION Ixodid ticks infesting dogs harbor a diverse array of V/TBPs including zoonotic agents from Pakistan. Furthermore, the presence of D. immitis in ticks that infest dogs raises the possibility that this parasite has either attained its dead-end host (i.e. the tick) while feeding on dogs or has expanded its range of intermediate/paratenic hosts. Further research work is needed to investigate the epidemiology and confirm the vector competence of screened tick species for these pathogens from Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jehan Zeb
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
| | - Baolin Song
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Munsif Ali Khan
- Vector-Borne Diseases Control Unit, District Health Office, Abbottabad, 22010, Pakistan
| | - Haytham Senbill
- Department of Applied Entomology and Zoology, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21545, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Umair Aziz
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Sabir Hussain
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Abdul Waris
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Ala E-Tabor
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Olivier Andre Sparagano
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 518057, 999077, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
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19
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Ionita M, Leica L, Wassermann M, Mitrea E, Nicorescu IM, Mitrea IL. Detection and Molecular Characterization of Canine Babesiosis Causative Agent Babesia canis in Naturally Infected Dogs in the Dobrogea Area (Southeastern Romania). Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1354. [PMID: 37374136 DOI: 10.3390/life13061354] [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: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease of major veterinary concern in Europe. Its prevalence has increased in the last two decades and is spreading rapidly toward the north. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity of Babesia spp. strains isolated from naturally infected dogs in a tick-endemic area (Dobrogea) in southeastern Romania. For this purpose, a total of twenty-three samples from dogs diagnosed with various clinical forms of babesiosis, evaluated by means of clinical history, physical examination, and hematological tests, were subjected to a molecular investigation using PCR, sequencing analysis, and genetic characterization. A microscopic examination of thin Diff-quick-stained blood smears revealed large intra-erythrocytic Babesia piroplasms in all dogs. The PCR and sequencing analysis results indicated the presence of Babesia canis in 22 dogs (95.7%) and Babesia vogeli in 1 dog (4.3%). Among the B. canis isolates, two genotypes were distinguished based on two nucleotide substitutions (GA→AG) observed in the 18S rRNA gene sequences (at positions 609 and 610), with the AG genotype predominating (54.5% of samples), while the GA variant was identified in 9.1% of samples. In the remaining isolates (36.4%), both variants were identified. The B. vogeli-positive dog also tested positive for antibodies against Ehrlichia canis and displayed severe disease. This study reports, for the first time, the presence of genetically heterogenic B. canis strains in dogs with clinical babesiosis in Romania. These findings provide a basis for future studies on the relationship between the genetic structure of the causative agents of canine babesiosis in Romania and the course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Ionita
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Laurentiu Leica
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marion Wassermann
- Parasitology Unit, Institute of Biology, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Emanuel Mitrea
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Isabela Madalina Nicorescu
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioan Liviu Mitrea
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases & Animal Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 11464 Bucharest, Romania
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Azhar M, Gadahi JA, Bhutto B, Tunio S, Vistro WA, Tunio H, Bhutto S, Ram T. Babesiosis: Current status and future perspectives in Pakistan and chemotherapy used in livestock and pet animals. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17172. [PMID: 37441378 PMCID: PMC10333442 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is a protozoal disease affect livestock and pet animals such as cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, horses, donkeys, mules, dogs, and cats. It causes severe economic losses in livestock as well as in pet animals. A large number of dairy animals are imported in order to fulfill the demands of milk, milk, meat and its products. In addition, different pet animals are transported from Pakistan to various parts of the world, therefore, it is important to identify the current status and distribution of babesiosis throughout Pakistan in order to control the disease and draw attention for future research, diagnosis, treatment and control of this diseases. No work has been done on a complete review on up-to-date on blood protozoal disease burden in Pakistan. This article will provide about the complete background of babesiosis in ruminants, equines and pet animals, its current status, distribution, vectors in Pakistan and allopathic and ethnoveterinary treatments used against babesiosis. Babesiosis may be subclinical (apparently normal) and may be clinical with acute to chronic disease and sometimes fatal. Babesia is found and develops inside the erythrocytes (red blood cells). Clinically, it causes fever, fatigue, lethargy, pallor mucus membranes, malaise, cachexia, respiratory distress, jaundice, icterus, hemolytic anemia, hemoglobinuria, lymphadenopathy, chollangocytitis, hepatomegaly, and splenomegaly. Chemotherapy for babesiosis includes Imidocarb dipropionate, Diaminazine aceturate Atovaquone and Bupravaquone, Azithromycin, Quinuronium sulfate and Amicarbalidesio-thionate are most widely used. Supportive therapy includes multivitamins, fluid therapy, antipyretics intravenous fluids, and blood transfusions are used if necessary. In addition, there are certain ethnoveterinary (homeopathic) ingredients which having anti-babesial activity. As the resistance against these drugs is developing every day. New more specific long-lasting drugs should be developed for the treatment of Babesiosis. Further studies should be done on disease genome of different species of Babesia for vaccine development like malarial parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Azhar
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Javaid Ali Gadahi
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Bachal Bhutto
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Sambreena Tunio
- Department of Animal Product Technology, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Waseem Ali Vistro
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Haleema Tunio
- Department of Poultry Husbandry, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Sahar Bhutto
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Teerath Ram
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
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Vector-Borne Pathogens in Guard Dogs in Ibadan, Nigeria. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030406. [PMID: 36986328 PMCID: PMC10053886 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine vector-borne diseases are of great relevance not only regarding animal welfare but also in relation to the One Health concept. Knowledge concerning the most relevant vector-borne pathogens in dogs is scarce and limited to stray dogs in most western African regions, and there is virtually no information about the situation in kept dogs presenting (regularly) to vets. Therefore, the blood samples of 150 owned guard dogs in the Ibadan area—in the southwest of Nigeria—were collected and analyzed for the DNA of Piroplasmida (Babesia, Hepatozoon, Theileria), Filarioidea (e.g., Dirofilaria immitis, Dirofilaria repens), Anaplasmataceae (e.g., Anaplasma, Ehrlichia), Trypanosomatidae (e.g., Leishmania, Trypanosoma), Rickettsia, Bartonella, Borrelia and hemotropic Mycoplasma using molecular methods. Overall, samples from 18 dogs (12%) tested positive for at least one pathogen. Hepatozoon canis (6%) was the most prevalent blood parasite, followed by Babesia rossi (4%). There was a single positive sample each for Babesia vogeli (0.6%) and Anaplasma platys (0.6%). Moreover, one mixed infection with Trypanosoma brucei/evansi and Trypanosoma congolense kilifi was confirmed (0.67%). Generally, the prevalence of vector-borne pathogens in this sample group of owned dogs in southwest Nigeria was lower than in prior studies from the country and in other parts of Africa in total. This leads to the assumption that, firstly, the exact geographical location has a major influence on the incidence of vector-borne diseases, and, secondly, it seems to make a difference if the dogs are owned and, therefore, regularly checked at a veterinary clinic. This study should raise awareness of the importance of routine health check-ups, tick and mosquito prophylaxis, and a well-managed infectious disease control program to prevent vector-borne diseases in canines.
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22
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Epidemiological Survey on Tick-Borne Pathogens with Zoonotic Potential in Dog Populations of Southern Ethiopia. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8020102. [PMID: 36828518 PMCID: PMC9962431 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8020102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Dogs are known to host several tick-borne pathogens with zoonotic potential; however, scant information is available on the epidemiology of these pathogens in low-income tropical countries and in particular in sub-Saharan Africa. With the aim of investigating a wide range of tick-borne pathogens (i.e., Rickettsia spp., Anaplasma spp., Erhlichia spp., Borrelia spp., Hepatozoon spp. and Babesia spp.), 273 blood samples were collected from dogs in selected districts of Ethiopia and analyzed by real-time and/or end-point PCR. The results of the study showed that Hepatozoon canis was the most prevalent pathogen (53.8%), followed by Anaplasma phagocythophilum (7.0%), Babesia canis rossi (3.3%), Ehrlichia canis (2.6%) and Anaplasma platys (2.2%). Furthermore, five samples tested positive for Borrelia spp., identified as Borrelia afzelii (n = 3) and Borrelia burgdorferi (n = 2), and two samples for Rickettsia spp., identified as Rickettsia conorii (n = 1) and Rickettsia monacensis (n = 1). The finding of Anaplasma phagocythophilum and different species of the genera Borrelia and Rickettsia with zoonotic potential was unexpected and alarming, and calls for further investigation on the roles of dogs and on the tick, species acting as vector in this specific context. Other pathogens (Hepatozoon canis, Babaesia canis rossi, Anaplasma platys, Ehrlichia canis) are already known to have an important impact on the dogs' health but have minor zoonotic potential as they were rarely or never reported in humans. Dogs from rural areas were found to be at higher risk for different pathogens, probably due to the presence of other wild canids in the same environment. The findings of the present study contribute to a better knowledge of the epidemiology of tick-borne pathogens, which is relevant to human and animal health.
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23
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Ghafar A, Davies N, Tadepalli M, Breidahl A, Death C, Haros P, Li Y, Dann P, Cabezas-Cruz A, Moutailler S, Foucault-Simonin A, Gauci CG, Stenos J, Hufschmid J, Jabbar A. Unravelling the Diversity of Microorganisms in Ticks from Australian Wildlife. Pathogens 2023; 12:153. [PMID: 36839425 PMCID: PMC9967841 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020153] [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: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks and tick-borne pathogens pose a significant threat to the health and welfare of humans and animals. Our knowledge about pathogens carried by ticks of Australian wildlife is limited. This study aimed to characterise ticks and tick-borne microorganisms from a range of wildlife species across six sites in Victoria, Australia. Following morphological and molecular characterisation (targeting 16S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase I), tick DNA extracts (n = 140) were subjected to microfluidic real-time PCR-based screening for the detection of microorganisms and Rickettsia-specific real-time qPCRs. Five species of ixodid ticks were identified, including Aponomma auruginans, Ixodes (I.) antechini, I. kohlsi, I. tasmani and I. trichosuri. Phylogenetic analyses of 16S rRNA sequences of I. tasmani revealed two subclades, indicating a potential cryptic species. The microfluidic real-time PCR detected seven different microorganisms as a single (in 13/45 ticks) or multiple infections (27/45). The most common microorganisms detected were Apicomplexa (84.4%, 38/45) followed by Rickettsia sp. (55.6%, 25/45), Theileria sp. (22.2% 10/45), Bartonella sp. (17.8%, 8/45), Coxiella-like sp. (6.7%, 3/45), Hepatozoon sp. (2.2%, 1/45), and Ehrlichia sp. (2.2%, 1/45). Phylogenetic analyses of four Rickettsia loci showed that the Rickettsia isolates detected herein potentially belonged to a novel species of Rickettsia. This study demonstrated that ticks of Australian wildlife carry a diverse array of microorganisms. Given the direct and indirect human-wildlife-livestock interactions, there is a need to adopt a One Health approach for continuous surveillance of tick-associated pathogens/microorganisms to minimise the associated threats to animal and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Ghafar
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Nick Davies
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Mythili Tadepalli
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Amanda Breidahl
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Clare Death
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Philip Haros
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Yuting Li
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Peter Dann
- Research Department, Phillip Island Nature Park, P.O. Box 97, Cowes, VIC 3922, Australia
| | - Alejandro Cabezas-Cruz
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, F-94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Sara Moutailler
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, F-94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Angélique Foucault-Simonin
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, F-94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Charles G. Gauci
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - John Stenos
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Jasmin Hufschmid
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Abdul Jabbar
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
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Diakou A, Sofroniou D, Paoletti B, Tamvakis A, Kolencik S, Dimzas D, Morelli S, Grillini M, Traversa D. Ticks, Fleas, and Harboured Pathogens from Dogs and Cats in Cyprus. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11121403. [PMID: 36558737 PMCID: PMC9786688 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11121403] [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: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks and fleas are blood-sucking ectoparasites that cause irritation and anaemia to their hosts and act as vectors of pathogens (vector-borne pathogens, VBPs) of relevance for animal and human health. In the present study, tick and flea species in dogs and cats from Cyprus were recorded and VBPs were detected in the collected specimens. Ectoparasites were collected from 220 animals (161 dogs and 59 cats), and a questionnaire including demographic, clinical, and other information was filled out for each animal. The ectoparasites were morphologically identified and the detection of VBPs was performed by PCR-coupled sequencing. Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato was found on 108 dogs and 13 cats, and Ixodes gibbosus on 2 dogs. Ctenocephalides felis was the predominant flea species (on 62 dogs and 45 cats), while one dog and one cat were infested by Ctenocephalides canis and Echidnophaga gallinacea, respectively. The VBPs in ticks were Anaplasma platys, Rickettsia massiliae, Rickettsia conorii, Rickettsia felis, Hepatozoon felis and Hepatozoon canis, while Rickettsia felis, Rickettsia sp., Bartonella koehlerae, Bartonella clarridgeiae, and Bartonella henselae were recorded in fleas. Statistical analysis (chi-square test and multiple univariate generalized linear model) showed that animals up to 6 months of age were less likely to be infested with ticks than older animals, but more likely to be infested with fleas. Ticks were more prevalent in sheltered than in owned animals, while the odds ratio of flea presence was higher in owned animals than those living in shelters. The present study is the first investigation on the occurrence of ticks and fleas in dogs and cats from Cyprus, showing the presence of different VBPs in these important ectoparasites. The results point out the importance of systematic ectoparasite control in dogs and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Barbara Paoletti
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Androniki Tamvakis
- Laboratory of Ecology and System Dynamics, Department of Marine Sciences, University of the Aegean, 81100 Mytilene, Greece
| | | | - Dimitris Dimzas
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Marika Grillini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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Co-infection patterns of vector-borne zoonotic pathogens in owned free-ranging dogs in central Chile. Vet Res Commun 2022; 47:575-585. [DOI: 10.1007/s11259-022-10009-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractWe investigated the co-occurrence of the nine of the most relevant canine vector-borne pathogens (CVBP) using conventional and real-time PCR and evaluated risk factors and potential non-apparent haematological alterations associated with co-infection in 111 rural, owned, free-ranging dogs in the Metropolitan Region of Chile.At least one pathogen was detected in 75% of the dogs. DNA of Anaplasma platys (Ap; 36%), Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum (CMhp; 31%), Mycoplasma haemocanis (Mhc; 28%), Trypanosoma cruzi (17%), Leishmania spp. (4.5%), and Acanthocheilonema reconditum (1%) was detected. All dogs were negative for Ehrlichia spp., Rickettsia spp., Bartonella spp., Piroplasmida, and Hepatozoon spp. Thirty-eight dogs (34%) were coinfected. CMhp was involved in 71%, Mhc in 58%, and Ap in 50% of the co-infections. The most common co-infection pattern was CMhp–Mhc (37% of the cases). The prevalence of Ap was higher in juvenile than in adult dogs, whereas the opposite was found for CMhp and Mhc. Adult dogs were four times more likely of being co-infected than juveniles. Co-infected animals showed higher white blood cell count, segmented neutrophil count, and GGT levels than non-co-infected dogs. Clinically healthy but infected dogs may act as reservoirs of CVBP, and their free-ranging behavior would facilitate the spread of these pathogens to other dogs as well as human beings or wild carnivores.
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Bandaranayaka KO, Dissanayake UI, Rajakaruna RS. Diversity and Geographic Distribution of Dog Tick Species in Sri Lanka and the Life Cycle of Brown Dog Tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus Under Laboratory Conditions. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:1708-1718. [PMID: 36217073 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00622-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study determined the diversity and distribution of tick species infesting domestic dogs and the life cycle parameters of the dominant dog tick species. METHODS An island-wide, cross-sectional survey of tick species infesting domestic dogs was carried out, and the life cycle of the most commonly occurring dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus was studied under laboratory conditions. RESULTS A total of 3026 ticks were collected from 1219 dogs in all 25 districts. Eight species in five genera were identified: R. sanguineus (63.4%), R. haemaphysaloides (22.0%), Haemaphysalis bispinosa (12.5%), Haemaphysalis intermedia (0.9%), Haemaphysalis turturis (0.6%), Amblyomma integrum (0.4%), Dermacentor auratus (0.2%) and Hyalomma sp (0.1%). R. sanguineus was the dominant species in the Dry and Wet zones, while R. haemaphysaloides was the dominant species in the Intermediate Zone. Species diversity (Shannon diversity index H) was 1.135, 1.021and 0.849 in the Intermediate, Dry and Wet zones, respectively. The three-host life cycle of R. sanguineus was completed within 70-126 days, and all three stages successfully fed on New Zealand white rabbits under laboratory conditions. The Reproductive Efficiency Index (REI) and Reproductive Fitness Index (RFI) were 50.8 ± 9.69 and 9.1 ± 5.01, respectively. Larger females had higher reproductive success. CONCLUSIONS Of the eight species infesting domestic dogs in Sri Lanka, R. sanguineaus was the most frequently occurring tick species. The three-host life cycle of R. sanguineus was successfully completed within an average of 98 days on New Zealand white rabbits. The number of eggs laid, duration of the pre-oviposition period, incubation period and parasitic periods of all three life stages were lower than in previous records.
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Affiliation(s)
- K O Bandaranayaka
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, The Open University of Sri Lanka, Nawala, Sri Lanka
| | - U I Dissanayake
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - R S Rajakaruna
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
- Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
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Gonçalves LR, Merino MMGJ, Freschi CR, Fernandes SDJ, André MR, Machado RZ. Serological evidence of exposure to Bartonella sp. in dogs with suspected vector-borne diseases, toxoplasmosis and neosporosis. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2022; 31:e010422. [PMID: 36134779 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612022050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Bartonellosis is a vector-borne zoonotic disease with worldwide distribution that infect a broad spectrum of mammalian species. Despite the recent studies carried out in Brazil, information regarding Bartonella in dogs are scarce. Therefore, we performed a retrospective study to investigate the exposure to Bartonella sp. in dogs by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Three hundred and thirty-five archived serum samples from dogs previously tested for vector-borne pathogens, Toxoplasma gondii, and Neospora caninum were screened for the presence of IgG antibodies to Bartonella sp. All dogs originated from the Metropolitan region of Ribeirão Preto, northeast of the State of São Paulo. Twenty-eight samples (8.3%) were positive for Bartonella sp. at the cut-off of 64. Among the 28 seropositive samples for Bartonella sp., 16 (57.1%) were also seropositive for Ehrlichia canis, 12 (42.8%) for Babesia vogeli, five (17.8%) for T. gondii and three (10.7%) for L. infantum and N. caninum. Our results demonstrated that dogs sampled were exposed to Bartonella sp. Since all the animals sampled in the present study were from private owners, our findings demonstrate that these people may also be exposed to Bartonella sp. Further studies designed to assess whether the infection by other arthropod-borne pathogens such as B. vogeli and E. canis are risk factors for Bartonella infection are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Marcos Rogério André
- Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias - FCAV, Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brasil
| | - Rosangela Zacarias Machado
- Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias - FCAV, Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brasil
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de Macedo LO, Bezerra-Santos MA, Filho CRCU, da Silva Sales KG, de Sousa-Paula LC, da Silva LG, Dantas-Torres F, do Nascimento Ramos RA, Otranto D. Vector-borne pathogens of zoonotic concern in dogs from a Quilombola community in northeastern Brazil. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:3305-3311. [PMID: 36102968 PMCID: PMC9556415 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07661-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Canine vector-borne pathogens (CVBPs) comprise a group of disease agents mainly transmitted by ticks, fleas, mosquitoes and sand flies. In this study, we assessed the presence of CVBPs in an Afro-descendent community (Quilombola) of northeastern, Brazil. Dog blood samples (n = 201) were collected and analyzed by rapid test for the detection of antibodies against Leishmania spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp. and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.), and antigens of Dirofilaria immitis. In addition, polymerase chain reactions were performed for Anaplasmataceae, Babesia spp., Hepatozoon spp., Rickettsia spp. and B. burgdorferi s.l. Overall, 66.7% of the dogs scored positive to at least one pathogen at serological and/or molecular methods. Antibodies against Ehrlichia spp. were the most frequently detected (57.2%; n = 115/201), followed by Anaplasma spp. (8.5%; n = 17/201), Leishmania spp. (8.5%; n = 17/201) and B. burgdorferi s.l. (0.5%; n = 1/201). For D. immitis, 11 out of 201 (5.5%) animals scored positive. At the molecular analysis, 10.4% (n = 21/201) of the samples scored positive for Babesia spp./Hepatozoon spp., followed by Anaplasmataceae (5.0%; n = 10/201) and Rickettsia spp. (3.0%; n = 6/201). All samples were negative for B. burgdorferi s.l. Our data demonstrated the presence of CVBPs in the studied population, with a high seropositivity for Ehrlichia spp. In addition, considering the detection of zoonotic pathogens in dogs and their relationship with people from Quilombola communities, effective control strategies are advocated for minimizing the risk of infection in this socially vulnerable human population and their pets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Oliveira de Macedo
- Graduate Program in Animal Biosciences, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Federal University of the Agreste of Pernambuco, Garanhuns, Brazil
| | | | - Carlos Roberto Cruz Ubirajara Filho
- Graduate Program in Animal Biosciences, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Federal University of the Agreste of Pernambuco, Garanhuns, Brazil
| | - Kamila Gaudêncio da Silva Sales
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | - Lucas C de Sousa-Paula
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | - Lidiane Gomes da Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | - Filipe Dantas-Torres
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy.
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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El-Alfy ES, Abbas I, Baghdadi HB, El-Sayed SAES, Ji S, Rizk MA. Molecular Epidemiology and Species Diversity of Tick-Borne Pathogens of Animals in Egypt: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11080912. [PMID: 36015033 PMCID: PMC9416077 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11080912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks and tick-borne pathogens (TTBPs) are listed among the most serious concerns harming Egyptian livestock’s productivity. Several reports on tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) from various geographical regions in the country were published. However, data on the molecular characterization of TBPs are the most beneficial for understanding the epidemiology of this important group of pathogens. In this study, we present the first meta-analysis on the molecular epidemiology and species diversity of TBPs infecting animals in Egypt. All published studies on TBPs were systematically collected from various databases (PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, the Egyptian Knowledge Bank, and Google Scholar). Data from eligible papers were extracted and subjected to various analyses. Seventy-eight studies were found to be eligible for inclusion. Furthermore, ticks infesting animals that were molecularly screened for their associated pathogens were also included in this study to display high species diversity and underline the high infection risk to animals. Theileria annulata was used as parasite model of TBPs to study the genetic diversity and transmission dynamics across different governorates of Egypt. This study extends cross-comparisons between all published molecular data on TBPs in Egypt and provides resources from Egyptian data in order to better understand parasite epidemiology, species diversity, and disease outcome as well as the development and implementation of prevention and control methods for public health, veterinary care practitioners, and animal owners all over the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- El-Sayed El-Alfy
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Abbas
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Hanadi B. Baghdadi
- Biology Department, College of Science, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31113, Saudi Arabia
- Basic and Applied Scientific Research Center (BASRC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31113, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shimaa Abd El-Salam El-Sayed
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Shengwei Ji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Mohamed Abdo Rizk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious and Fish Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
- Correspondence:
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Disler G, Schlaht R, Hahn MB. Perspectives on and prevalence of ticks and tick-borne diseases in Alaskan veterinary clinics. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2022; 261:1-8. [PMID: 35921400 PMCID: PMC10424748 DOI: 10.2460/javma.22.04.0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of veterinary personnel and pet owners regarding ticks and tick-borne diseases in Alaska and to conduct a serosurvey for tick-borne disease pathogens among domestic animals visiting veterinary clinics for preventative care. Sample Across 8 veterinary clinics, we sampled 31 veterinary personnel, 81 pet owners, 102 client-owned dogs, and 1 client-owned cat. Procedures Information on KAP among veterinary staff and pet owners was collected via self-administered questionnaires. Tick and tick-borne disease prevalence were assessed via tick checks and benchtop ELISA antibody tests detecting Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Erlichia canis, Erlichia ewingii, and Borrelia burgdorferi. Results The veterinary personnel KAP survey showed a low average knowledge score (53.5%) but a moderate attitude score (71.7%). In contrast, owner average knowledge score was higher (67.5%) and attitude score was comparatively low (50.6%). Both veterinary personnel and owners had low average practice scores (64.5% and 56.3%, respectively). One dog was positive for anaplasmosis (unknown species) antibody, and 1 dog was positive for B burgdorferi antibody. No ticks were found during the study. Clinical Relevance This study was the first of its kind in the state and indicated a low prevalence of ticks and tick-borne diseases in the domestic pet population and highlighted significant knowledge gaps that could be targeted by public health efforts. Our results suggest the value of a One Health approach and of the veterinary-client relationship to address ticks and tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gale Disler
- Institute for Circumpolar Health Studies, University of Alaska, Anchorage, AK
| | | | - Micah B. Hahn
- Institute for Circumpolar Health Studies, University of Alaska, Anchorage, AK
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van Wyk CL, Mtshali K, Taioe MO, Terera S, Bakkes D, Ramatla T, Xuan X, Thekisoe O. Detection of Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens of Urban Stray Dogs in South Africa. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11080862. [PMID: 36014983 PMCID: PMC9416273 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11080862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify ticks infesting dogs admitted to the Potchefstroom Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and to detect tick-borne pathogens they are harbouring. A total of 592 ticks were collected from 61 stray dogs admitted to PAWS originating from several suburbs in and near Potchefstroom, South Africa. The dog ticks were identified as Haemaphysalis elliptica (39%) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (61%) by both morphological and DNA analyses. Of these ticks, H. elliptica consisted of 67.5% (156/231) and 32.5% (75/231) female and male ticks, respectively, whilst R. sanguineus consisted of 48.5% (175/361) and 51.5% (186/361) female and male ticks, respectively. Microscopic examination of blood smears from engorged female ticks indicated overall occurrences of 0.5% (1/204) for Babesia spp. from R. sanguineus, 1% (2/204) of Anaplasma spp. from H. elliptica, and 22% (45/204) of Rickettsia spp. from both H. elliptica and R. sanguineus. Using pooled samples molecular detection of tick-borne pathogens indicated overall occurrences of 1% (1/104) for A. phagocytophilum in H. elliptica, 9.6% (10/104) of Rickettsia spp. in H. elliptica and R. sanguineus, 5.8% (6/104) of Ehrlichia canis in H. elliptica and R. sanguineus, and 13.5% (14/104) of Coxiella spp. in both H. elliptica and R. sanguineus. Additionally, PCR detected 6.5% (2/31) of Coxiella spp. DNA from H. elliptica eggs. Our data indicate that urban stray dogs admitted at PAWS are infested by H. elliptica and R. sanguineus ticks which are harbouring several pathogenic organisms known to cause tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara-Lee van Wyk
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; (C.-L.v.W.); (M.O.T.); (T.R.); (O.T.)
| | - Khethiwe Mtshali
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Arcadia Campus, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Moeti O. Taioe
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; (C.-L.v.W.); (M.O.T.); (T.R.); (O.T.)
- Epidemiology, Parasites and Vectors, Agricultural Research Council, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - Stallone Terera
- Potchefstroom Animal Welfare Society, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa;
| | - Deon Bakkes
- Gertrud Theiler Tick Museum, Agricultural Research Council, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa;
| | - Tsepo Ramatla
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; (C.-L.v.W.); (M.O.T.); (T.R.); (O.T.)
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan
- Correspondence:
| | - Oriel Thekisoe
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; (C.-L.v.W.); (M.O.T.); (T.R.); (O.T.)
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Development and validation of multiplex SYBR Green real-time PCR assays for detection and molecular surveillance of four tick-borne canine haemoparasites. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:101937. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.101937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Duplex real-time PCR methods for molecular detection and characterization of canine tick-borne haemoparasites from Punjab state, India. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:4451-4459. [PMID: 35230588 PMCID: PMC8886702 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07286-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background Microscopy is a routinely used technique for the diagnosis of canine tick-borne haemoparasitic diseases in various clinical laboratories worldwide. In an attempt to provide better diagnostic assay to the clients for effective management of these diseases duplex real-time PCR assays were applied. Methods and results Blood samples (n = 338) aseptically collected from suspected dogs of Central Plain Zone of Punjab state, India were subjected to SYBR Green based real-time duplex PCR assays for simultaneous detection of B. vogeli & E. canis and B. gibsoni & H. canis. Results revealed an overall prevalence rate of canine tick-borne haemoparasites as 54.1%, amongst which H. canis was the predominant (25.4%), followed by B. gibsoni (16.3%), E. canis (10.7%) and B. vogeli (1.8%). Sensitivity and specificity of the duplex assays ranged from 59.04 to 100.0% and 58.12 to 92.52%, respectively and their strength of agreement was ″fair″ with kappa value statistics. A significant (p < 0.05) association between prevalence of B. gibsoni, H. canis and E. canis infection with risk factors like sex, breed, season and location was recorded. The ancestral background of the field isolates of haemoparasites was also studied by phylogenetic analysis of their nucleotide sequences. Conclusions SYBR Green dye based duplex real-time PCR assays proved to be highly sensitive, specific, rapid and affordable diagnostic tests for use by clinicians to save the life of pets. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11033-022-07286-4.
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Miranda EA, Han SW, Rim JM, Cho YK, Choi KS, Chae JS. Serological evidence of Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi and Ehrlichia canis in dogs from the Republic of Korea by rapid diagnostic test kits. J Vet Sci 2022; 23:e20. [PMID: 35187878 PMCID: PMC8977546 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.21215] [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: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Emergent and re-emergent canine tick-borne infections are attracting increasing attention worldwide. The rise in pet ownership and the close relationship between dogs and their owners are the most concerning factors because dogs may act as competent reservoirs for human tick-transmitted infectious agents. Objectives This study contributes to the epidemiological surveillance of canine tick-transmitted infections with zoonotic risk in the Republic of Korea (ROK) by investigating the seroprevalence of the pathogens, Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi, and Ehrlichia canis. Methods Four hundred and thirty whole blood samples from domestic dogs were collected in seven metropolitan cities and nine provinces in the ROK and tested using SensPERT Ab test kits (VetAll Laboratories®) to detect seroreactive animals. Results The seroprevalence rates identified were 9.8% (42/430) for Anaplasma spp., 2.8% (12/430) for B. burgdorferi, and 1.4% (6/430) for E. canis. The risk factors evaluated in this study that could be associated with the development of a humoral immune response, such as sex, age, and history of tick exposure, were similar. There was only one exception for dogs seroreactive to Anaplasma spp., where the risk factor “tick exposure” was statistically significant (p = 0.047). Conclusions This serological survey exhibited the widespread presence of Anaplasma spp., B. burgdorferi, and E. canis throughout the ROK. Hence, dogs may play a key role as the sentinel animals of multiple zoonotic infectious agents in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Alejandra Miranda
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, BK21 FOUR Future Veterinary Medicine Leading Education and Research Center, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Sun-Woo Han
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, BK21 FOUR Future Veterinary Medicine Leading Education and Research Center, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Ji-Min Rim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, BK21 FOUR Future Veterinary Medicine Leading Education and Research Center, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Yoon-Kyoung Cho
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, BK21 FOUR Future Veterinary Medicine Leading Education and Research Center, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Kyoung-Seong Choi
- College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224, Korea
| | - Joon-Seok Chae
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, BK21 FOUR Future Veterinary Medicine Leading Education and Research Center, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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Fonsêca ADV, Oliveira LMBD, Jorge FR, Cavalcante RO, Bevilaqua CML, Pinto FJM, Santos JMLD, Teixeira BM, Rodrigues AKPP, Braz GF, Viana GA, Costa EC, Serpa MCDA, Weck BC, Labruna MB. Occurrence of tick-borne pathogens in dogs in a coastal region of the state of Ceará, northeastern Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2022; 31:e021321. [PMID: 35239843 PMCID: PMC9901873 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612022010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of tick-borne pathogens (Ehrlichia canis, Babesia vogeli, Hepatozoon spp. and Rickettsia spp.) in dogs in Vila de Jericoacoara, coastal region of Ceará, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 153 animals and analyzed using molecular and serological methods. Sixty animals were found to be infected or exposed to at least one of the pathogens studied. Babesia vogeli was the most prevalent pathogen (15%), followed by E. canis (13.7%) and Hepatozoon spp. (11.8%), which was identified as Hepatozoon canis through sequencing. Twenty dogs (13%) were seroreactive to Rickettsia spp. Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato was observed on 11.8% of the animals. There were associations between age (< 3 years old) and positivity for B. vogeli, and between habitation (stray dogs) and positivity for H. canis. There were also associations between anemia and infection with H. canis, and between leukopenia and exposure to Rickettsia spp. No association was detected between clinical alterations and infection with or exposure to the pathogens studied. The results confirmed that pathogens of veterinary importance are circulating in northeastern Brazil and showed that dogs are exposed to Rickettsia species with zoonotic potential, thus indicating a need for vector control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arícia Débora Vasconcelos Fonsêca
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual do Ceará - UECE, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Lorena Mayana Beserra de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual do Ceará - UECE, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Felipe Rodrigues Jorge
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual do Ceará - UECE, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Ramuelly Olinda Cavalcante
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual do Ceará - UECE, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Claudia Maria Leal Bevilaqua
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual do Ceará - UECE, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Geysa Almeida Viana
- Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Centro Universitário INTA - UNINTA, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - Edmara Chaves Costa
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Integração Internacional da Lusofonia Afro-Brasileira - UNILAB, Redenção, CE, Brasil
| | - Maria Carolina de Azevedo Serpa
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Bárbara Conte Weck
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - 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
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Sarker BR, Mitpasa T, Macotpet A, Bupata PA, Sangmaneedet S, Taweenan W. First report on molecular prevalence and identification of Anaplasma platys in dogs in Khon Kaen, Thailand. Vet World 2021; 14:2613-2619. [PMID: 34903916 PMCID: PMC8654768 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.2613-2619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Anaplasma platys is a blood parasite that infects platelets, causing thrombocytopenia. Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks are believed to transmit A. platys. To identify A. platys, nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has proven to be an effective diagnostic tool. In this study, the molecular prevalence of A. platys infection in dogs was investigated for the 1st time in the Khon Kaen region of Thailand. The association between risk factors and A. platys infection was also evaluated. Materials and Methods: A total of 130 blood samples were collected from dogs in Khon Kaen, Thailand. DNA from the samples was extracted and nested PCR was applied for molecular analysis. Platelet count and packed cell volume (PCV) levels were measured. Platelet counts were categorized into four grades: Non-thrombocytopenia (platelets >200,000 cells/μL), mild thrombocytopenia (platelets 150,000-200,000 cells/μL), moderate thrombocytopenia (platelets 100,000-150,000 cells/μL), and severe thrombocytopenia (platelets <100,000 cells/μL). Four categories for PCV levels of >37%, 30-37%, 20-29%, and <20% were defined as no anemia, mild anemia, moderate anemia, and severe anemia, respectively. DNA sequencing was analyzed using BTSeq™ (Barcode-Tagged Sequencing; CELEMICS, Seoul, South Korea) for similarity index. Results: Among the 130 samples, 9 (6.9%) were positive for A. platys infection. There was an association between low platelet count and infection (p<0.05). PCV level was also associated with A. platys infection (p<0.05). DNA sequencing results of the nine positive samples showed similarity to known sequences of A. platys with 99.36-100% nucleotide identity. These results suggested low genetic diversity in A. platys infecting dogs in the Khon Kaen area. Conclusion: By amplifying 16S rRNA, A. platys infection was detected in the blood of Thai dogs. Further work should be performed to identify risk factors potentially associated with A. platys infection in dogs in Khon Kaen. Other related factors should also be considered, such as location and breeding, as well as the environmental characteristics of each locality. In addition, sampling a larger number of animals may reveal predictors for the positivity of A. platys in dogs in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biethee Rani Sarker
- Division of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Thongphet Mitpasa
- Division of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Arayaporn Macotpet
- Division of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Pattara-Anong Bupata
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Somboon Sangmaneedet
- Division of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Weerapol Taweenan
- Division of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
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Abstract
Public health messaging in the eastern United States has historically underemphasized the risks posed by lone star ticks (Amblyomma americanum), focusing instead on blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis). This gap persists despite mounting evidence that lone star ticks also play an important role in disease ecology as confirmed vectors for a wide variety of tick-borne pathogens. These pathogens include several distinct bacterial agents that cause ehrlichiosis and tularensis in humans and dogs, a protozoal agent that causes cytauxzoonosis in cats, and emerging viruses such as Heartland, Bourbon, and Tacaribe. Lone star ticks are additionally linked to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, southern tick-associated rash illness, and alpha-gal syndrome, a condition marked by immune reactions to ingestion of mammalian meat. Moreover, their distribution in North America is expanding due to changing climatic factors and land use patterns. Lone star ticks are the most commonly encountered tick in Delaware, especially in Sussex and Kent Counties, and make up the vast majority of ticks collected in the first two years of the state’s tick surveillance program. Given the magnitude of lone star ticks’ medical and veterinary import, it is vital for healthcare professionals and health educators to devote more attention to this emerging threat.
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Ma W, Tang H, Zhou Y, Zhao G, Fan Y, Song X, Song J. THE INFECTION AND SPECIES IDENTIFICATION OF CANINE BABESIA SPP. IN PARTS OF SHAANXI PROVINCE. J Parasitol 2021; 107:780-784. [PMID: 34473292 DOI: 10.1645/19-177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is a serious disease among tick-borne haemoprotozoan diseases that threaten dog health. To find out the prevalence of canine babesiosis and its main pathogenic species in Shaanxi Province, the study was centered on the infection of babesiosis in dogs in different regions of the Province. First, a total of 367 blood samples were collected in Shaanxi Province, and 53 Babesia nucleic-acid-positive samples were found by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) identification, with a positive rate of 14.44%, and Babesia gibsoni was found by sequencing analysis. Further analysis showed that the prevalence of canine babesiosis was significantly different in 5 regions. There was no significant difference in infection rates between age groups, with the lowest prevalence in young dogs (10.81%) and the highest in adult dogs (17.29%). The infection rate in male dogs was higher than in female dogs. The morbidity of canine Babesia spp. was significantly different between different seasons, with the highest infection rate in autumn (27.78%) and the lowest in winter (6.10%). In conclusion, the epidemicity of canine Babesia spp. in dogs was mainly affected by region and season, and B. gibsoni was the most common canine Babesia spp. within Shaanxi Province in our study. These results provide basic data for the prevention and control of canine babesiosis in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuren Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China.,Xi'an Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Northwest A&F University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710065, People's Republic of China
| | - Huan Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China.,Chongqing Three Gorges Polytechnic College, Chongqing 404000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Zhou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanghui Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunpeng Fan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoping Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Junke Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
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Cevidanes A, Ulloa-Contreras C, Di Cataldo S, Latrofa MS, Gonzalez-Acuña D, Otranto D, Millán J. Marked host association and molecular evidence of limited transmission of ticks and fleas between sympatric wild foxes and rural dogs. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 35:239-250. [PMID: 33772813 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Wild and domestic carnivores share ectoparasites, although molecular evidence is lacking. The goals of this study were to describe tick and flea infestation in sympatric free-ranging dogs Canis lupus familiaris (Linnaeus, 1758) (Carnivora: Canidae) and Andean foxes Lycalopex culpaeus (Molina, 1782) (Carnivora: Canidae) and to determine whether interspecific transmission occurs. Fleas and ticks retrieved from 79 foxes and 111 dogs in the human-dominated landscapes of central Chile were identified and a subset of specimens characterized by PCR and amplicon sequencing. Each ectoparasite species was clearly associated with a host: abundance and occurrence of Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille 1806) (Acari: Ixodidae) and Ctenocephalides spp. (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) were significantly higher in dogs than in foxes, whereas the opposite was true for Amblyomma tigrinum (Koch, 1844) (Acari: Ixodidae) and Pulex irritans (Linnaeus, 1758) (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae). Genetic analyses of a subset of ectoparasites revealed that dogs and foxes shared a limited number of nucleotide sequence types, suggesting that the interspecific transmission of these ectoparasites happens infrequently. Data also indicated that the ecological association and biological cycles of ticks and fleas determine the ectoparasite fauna of sympatric carnivores. In conclusion, our study shows that cross-species transmission should be assessed at a molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cevidanes
- Department of Animal Health. NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development. Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Bizkaia, Derio, Spain
- Programa de Doctorado en Medicina de la Conservación, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - C Ulloa-Contreras
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile
| | - S Di Cataldo
- Programa de Doctorado en Medicina de la Conservación, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - M S Latrofa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - D Gonzalez-Acuña
- Laboratorio de Parásitos y Enfermedades en Fauna Silvestre, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - D Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - J Millán
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Fundación ARAID, Zaragoza, Spain
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40
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Kopsco HL, Duhaime RJ, Mather TN. An analysis of companion animal tick encounters as revealed by photograph-based crowdsourced data. Vet Med Sci 2021; 7:2198-2208. [PMID: 34414695 PMCID: PMC8604111 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Community science is increasingly utilized to track important vectors of companion animal disease, providing a scalable, cost‐effective strategy for identifying new foci, changing phenology, and disease prevalence across wide geographies. Objectives We examined photographs of ticks found attached to predominately dogs and cats reported to a photograph‐based tick surveillance program to identify potential areas for improvements in tick prevention education and risk intervention. Methods We compared estimated days of tick attachment using a Kruskal–Wallis one‐way analysis of variance, and a Pearson's chi‐square analysis of variance on the number of submissions by host type submitted for each season. Results The blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) was the most common species reported (39.8%). Tick photographs submitted were almost entirely adults (89.5%), and ticks found on companion animals exhibited an estimated median engorgement time of 2.5 days. Ixodes scapularis displayed the highest median engorgement of the top tick species found feeding on companion animals (χ2 = 98.96, p < 0.001). Ticks were spotted year‐round; during spring and summer, ticks collected from pets represented 15.4 and 12.8% of all submissions, but increased to 28.5 and 35.2% during autumn and winter, respectively. Conclusions Crowdsourced data reveal that mostly adult ticks are detected on pets, and they are found at a point in the blood‐feeding process that puts pets at heightened risk for disease transmission. The increase in proportion of ticks found on pets during colder months may reveal a critical knowledge gap amongst pet owners regarding seasonal activity of I. scapularis, a vector of Lyme disease, providing an opportunity for prevention‐education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Kopsco
- Center for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island.,TickEncounter Resource Center, Kingston, Rhode Island.,Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Roland J Duhaime
- TickEncounter Resource Center, Kingston, Rhode Island.,Environmental Data Center, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island
| | - Thomas N Mather
- Center for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island.,TickEncounter Resource Center, Kingston, Rhode Island
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41
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Dos Santos GCM, Scott FB, Campos DR, Magalhães VDS, Borges DA, Miranda FR, Alves MCC, Pereira GA, Moreira LO, Lima EAS, Rocha MBDS, Cid YP. Oral pharmacokinetic profile of fipronil and efficacy against flea and tick in dogs. J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2021; 45:23-33. [PMID: 34331772 DOI: 10.1111/jvp.13004] [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: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Fipronil (FIP) is an ectoparasiticide of the phenylpyrazole class, used in veterinary medicine in topical form. Supported by evidence of uncontrolled human exposure to FIP and environmental damage caused by commercially available formulations, its use by oral administration has become promising. The effectiveness of FIP against the flea Ctenocephalides felis felis and the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus and its pharmacokinetics and main active metabolite, fipronil sulfone (SULF) were evaluated after single oral administration of tablets in three different doses (2, 4, and 6 mg/kg) in dogs. Through the plasma concentration curves, it was possible to observe that the FIP showed rapid absorption and metabolization and slow elimination. The values of Cmax (β = 0.7653) and AUC0- t (β = 0.3209) did not increase proportionally with increasing dose. At 48 h after treatment, doses of 4 mg/kg (AUC0- t = 442.39 ± 137.35 µg/ml*h) and 6 mg/kg (AUC0- t = 421.32 ± 102.84 µg/ml*h) provided 100% and 99% efficacy against fleas, and 95% and 98% against ticks, respectively. The estimated EC90 of FIP +SULF was 1.30 µg/ml against C. felis felis and 2.16 µg/ml against R. sanguineus. The correlation between the FIP pharmacokinetic and efficacy data demonstrated its potential for oral administration in the form of tablets for the control of ectoparasites in dogs, as a safer alternative for animals, humans, and the environment, aligned with the One Health concept.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabio Barbour Scott
- Animal Parasitology Department, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Diefrey Ribeiro Campos
- Post graduation Program of Veterinary Science, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Viviane de Sousa Magalhães
- Animal Parasitology Department, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Debora Azevedo Borges
- Post graduation Program of Veterinary Science, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Fernando Rocha Miranda
- Post graduation Program of Veterinary Science, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Melina Cardilo Campos Alves
- Post graduation Program of Veterinary Science, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Geraldo Augusto Pereira
- Post graduation Program of Veterinary Science, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Leandra Oliveira Moreira
- Post graduation Program of Veterinary Science, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Emily Andressa Santos Lima
- Post graduation Program of Veterinary Science, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marisa Beatriz da Silva Rocha
- Post graduation Program of Veterinary Science, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Yara Peluso Cid
- Pharmaceutical Science Department, Health and Biological Science Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
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42
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Huggins LG, Colella V, Koehler AV, Schunack B, Traub RJ. A multipronged next-generation sequencing metabarcoding approach unearths hyperdiverse and abundant dog pathogen communities in Cambodia. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:1933-1950. [PMID: 34096687 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent surveys in Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, have identified canine vector-borne pathogens (VBPs), including those with zoonotic potential, as highly prevalent. The lack of veterinary care alongside the close association semidomesticated dogs have with humans in the region exacerbates these zoonotic risks. Nonetheless, the number of studies investigating such pathogens and the threats they pose to dog and human health is limited. Here, we utilize a next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based metabarcoding protocol to conduct an assumption-free characterization of the bacterial, apicomplexan, and kinetoplastid blood-borne pathogens of free-roaming dogs from across Cambodia. From 467 dogs at five field sites, 62% were infected with one of eight confirmed pathogens, comprising Anaplasma platys (32%), Ehrlichia canis (20%), Hepatozoon canis (18%), Babesia vogeli (14%), Mycoplasma haemocanis (13%), the zoonotic pathogen Bartonella clarridgeiae (3%), Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum (0.2%), and Trypanosoma evansi (0.2%). Coinfections of between two and four VBPs were common with 28% of dogs found to have a mixed infection. Moreover, DNA from putatively infectious agents belonging to the bacterial family and genera Coxiella, Mycobacterium, Neisseria, Rickettsiaceae, Treponema, and two uncharacterized Mycoplasma species were identified, in addition to protozoan genera Colpodella, Parabodo, and Bodo. Using a multiple logistic regression model, the presence of ectoparasites, abnormal mucous membranes, anemia, and total protein were found as predictors of canine VBP exposure. This study represents the first time an NGS metabarcoding technique has been used to holistically detect the bacterial and protozoan hemoparasites communities of dogs through an in-depth survey, highlighting the power of such methods to unearth a wide spectrum of pathogenic organisms in an unbiased manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas G Huggins
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vito Colella
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anson V Koehler
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Rebecca J Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Molecular Detection and Phylogeny of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Ticks Collected from Dogs in the Republic of Korea. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10050613. [PMID: 34067827 PMCID: PMC8157029 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are important vectors of various pathogens that result in clinical illnesses in humans and domestic and wild animals. Information regarding tick infestations and pathogens transmitted by ticks is important for the identification and prevention of disease. This study was a large-scale investigation of ticks collected from dogs and their associated environments in the Republic of Korea (ROK). It included detecting six prevalent tick-borne pathogens (Anaplasma spp., A. platys, Borrelia spp., Babesia gibsoni, Ehrlichia canis, and E. chaffeensis). A total of 2293 ticks (1110 pools) were collected. Haemaphysalis longicornis (98.60%) was the most frequently collected tick species, followed by Ixodes nipponensis (0.96%) and H. flava (0.44%). Anaplasma spp. (24/1110 tick pools; 2.16%) and Borrelia spp. (4/1110 tick pools; 0.36%) were detected. The phylogenetic analyses using 16S rRNA genes revealed that the Anaplasma spp. detected in this study were closely associated with A. phagocytophilum reported in humans and rodents in the ROK. Borrelia spp. showed phylogenetic relationships with B. theileri and B. miyamotoi in ticks and humans in Mali and Russia. These results demonstrate the importance of tick-borne disease surveillance and control in dogs in the ROK.
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44
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Barros G, Oliveira J, Silva T, Macedo L, Santos M, Ramos C, Carvalho G, Ramos R. Tick-borne pathogens infecting dogs from a highland swamp area. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-12147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - T.R.M. Silva
- Universidade Federal do Agreste de Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - L.O. Macedo
- Universidade Federal do Agreste de Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | - C.A.N. Ramos
- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - G.A. Carvalho
- Universidade Federal do Agreste de Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - R.A.N. Ramos
- Universidade Federal do Agreste de Pernambuco, Brazil
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Meyers AC, Auckland L, Meyers HF, Rodriguez CA, Kontowicz E, Petersen CA, Travi BL, Sanders JP, Hamer SA. Epidemiology of Vector-Borne Pathogens Among U.S. Government Working Dogs. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:358-368. [PMID: 33601954 PMCID: PMC8086402 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Surveillance of U.S. domestic dogs for exposure to vector-borne pathogens can identify regions of transmission that are relevant for human and animal health. Working dogs with high levels of outdoor exposure may be sensitive indicators of local risk, owing to increased contact with vectors. We randomly selected 476 high-value government working dogs from 40 states to determine the prevalence of infection with Dirofilaria immitis and Rickettsia spp., and exposure to Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Borrelia burgdorferi, and identify risk factors for positivity. Additionally, we tested 100 of these dogs from Texas for Leishmania spp. where sand fly vectors occur. Previously published Trypanosoma cruzi infection data on these dogs were used to identify coinfection or co-exposures. Infection prevalence was 0.84% for D. immitis, and all dogs were negative for Rickettsia spp. DNA. Seroprevalence of each pathogen was: B. burgdorferi 0.84%, Ehrlichia spp. 1.3%, Anaplasma spp. 1.5%, Leishmania spp. 2.0%, and T. cruzi 12.2%. Coinfection or co-exposure took place in four (0.84%) dogs. In bivariable analysis, we found that D. immitis-positive and Ehrlichia-seropositive dogs were significantly older than negative dogs (p < 0.05). Furthermore, seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. was significantly higher among dogs in the Northeast United States relative to other areas of the country (4.7% vs. ≤1.4%; p = 0.041). Although autochthonous Leishmania infections have been described in the United States, the cases reported herein may represent imported Leishmania infection. Most federal working dogs are bred in Europe, where the parasite is endemic and congenitally transmitted. Serological cross-reaction between T. cruzi and Leishmania spp. complicates diagnosis. In this study, the use of multiple testing strategies in a comparative complementary manner provided evidence for these dogs' true exposures. Comprehensive surveillance for vector-borne pathogens in dogs can improve clinician awareness and target prevention and treatment in a One Health manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa C. Meyers
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Lisa Auckland
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Hannah F. Meyers
- Department of Chemistry, Kalamazoo College, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA
| | - Carlos A. Rodriguez
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Eric Kontowicz
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Bruno L. Travi
- Department of Internal Medicine (Infectious Diseases) and Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - John P. Sanders
- Office of Workforce Health and Safety, Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Sarah A. Hamer
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.,Address correspondence to: Sarah A. Hamer, Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-4458, USA
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Stanley H, Rhodes DVL. Presence of Rickettsia Species in Ticks Collected from Companion Animals in Northeastern Georgia, United States. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8030037. [PMID: 33652620 PMCID: PMC7996843 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8030037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases are a major threat to both humans and their pets; therefore, it is important to evaluate the prevalence of pathogens carried by ticks on companion animals. In this study, attached and unattached Ixodid ticks were removed from companion animals by a veterinary practice in Hall County, Georgia. DNA was extracted from unengorged adult ticks and each was screened for the presence of Rickettsia spp. by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced to determine the species present. Two hundred and four adult hard-bodied ticks were identified to species and Rickettsia spp. were found in 19.6% (n = 38) of the 194 analyzed DNA extracts. Rickettsia montanensis was found in Dermacentor variablis (14.7%; n = 25), Amblyomma maculatum (33.3%; n = 2), and Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. ticks (25%; n = 4). One Amblyomma americanum tick contained Rickettsia amblyommatis, while Rickettsia felis was found in one Dermacentor variablis tick, serving as the first report of Rickettsia felis in a tick in this region and within this tick vector. This study suggests that there is a risk of companion animals contracting a species of Rickettsia from a tick bite in northeastern Georgia, indicating a need for more investigation and highlighting the importance of tick prevention on pets.
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Saleh MN, Allen KE, Lineberry MW, Little SE, Reichard MV. Ticks infesting dogs and cats in North America: Biology, geographic distribution, and pathogen transmission. Vet Parasitol 2021; 294:109392. [PMID: 33971481 PMCID: PMC9235321 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A diverse array of ixodid and argasid ticks infest dogs and cats in North America, resulting in skin lesions, blood loss, and disease. The ticks most commonly found on pets in this region are hard ticks of the genera Amblyomma, Dermacentor, Ixodes, and Rhipicephalus, as well as the more recently established Haemaphysalis longicornis. Soft tick genera, especially Otobius and Ornithodoros, are also reported from pets in some regions. In this review, we provide a summary of the complex and diverse life histories, distinct morphologies, and questing and feeding behaviors of the more common ticks of dogs and cats in North America with a focus on recent changes in geographic distribution. We also review pathogens of dogs and cats associated with the different tick species, some of which can cause serious, potentially fatal disease, and describe the zoonotic risk posed by ticks of pets. Understanding the natural history of ticks and the maintenance cycles responsible for providing an ongoing source of tick-borne infections is critical to effectively combatting the challenges ticks pose to the health of pets and people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriam N Saleh
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States
| | - Kelly E Allen
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States.
| | - Megan W Lineberry
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States
| | - Mason V Reichard
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, United States
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Beard D, Stannard HJ, Old JM. Parasites of wombats (family Vombatidae), with a focus on ticks and tick-borne pathogens. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:395-409. [PMID: 33409643 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-07036-0] [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: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Ticks (Arachnida: Acari) are vectors for pathogens and the biggest threat to animal health. Many Australian ticks are associated with pathogens that impact humans, domestic animals and livestock. However, little is known about the presence or impact of tick-borne pathogens in native Australian wildlife. Wombats are particularly susceptible to the effects of the ectoparasite Sarcoptes scabiei which causes sarcoptic mange, the reason for which is unknown. Factors such as other ectoparasites and their associated pathogens may play a role. A critical understanding of the species of ectoparasites that parasitise wombats and their pathogens, and particularly ticks, is therefore warranted. This review describes the ectoparasites of wombats, pathogens known to be associated with those ectoparasites, and related literature gaps. Pathogens have been isolated in most tick species that typically feed on wombats; however, there are minimal molecular studies to determine the presence of pathogens in any other wombat ectoparasites. The development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies allows us to explore entire microbial communities in ectoparasite samples, allowing fast and accurate identification of potential pathogens in many samples at once. These new techniques have highlighted the diversity and uniqueness of native ticks and their microbiomes, including pathogens of potential medical and veterinary importance. An increased understanding of all ectoparasites that parasitise wombats, and their associated pathogens, requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Beard
- School of Science, Hawkesbury, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
| | - Hayley J Stannard
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Julie M Old
- School of Science, Hawkesbury, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.
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Teodorowski O, Adaszek Ł, Erman Or M, Dokuzeylül B, Ercan AM, Tarhan D, Staniec M, Winiarczyk S. Elevated serum manganese concentration in dogs as a possible predisposing factor of cerebral babesiosis in dogs. Acta Vet Hung 2020; 68:354-360. [PMID: 33372913 DOI: 10.1556/004.2020.00053] [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: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to demonstrate a relationship between the occurrence of clinical signs of brain involvement in dogs with babesiosis and the concentration of manganese (Mn) in their serum. The study included seven dogs with early babesiosis (Group 1), seven dogs with cerebral babesiosis (Group 2) and seven healthy dogs (Group 3). Haematological and biochemical blood tests were performed in all dogs, and the results were analysed statistically. The Mann-Whitney rank test was used to demonstrate the differences in Mn concentrations, as well as other haematological and biochemical parameters between groups. In dogs in Group 2 with cerebral babesiosis, as compared to dogs in Groups 1 and 3, a statistically significant increase in serum Mn concentration was shown (P = 0.002 and P = 0.029) that may have been associated with the development of anaemia and/or impairment of liver function. Given the well-established neurotoxic effects of Mn in humans, experimental rodents and primates, additional studies on the role of Mn in the pathogenesis of the cerebral form of canine babesiosis are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Łukasz Adaszek
- 2Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka str. 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mehmet Erman Or
- 3Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Banu Dokuzeylül
- 3Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Alev Meltem Ercan
- 4Department of Biophysics, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Duygu Tarhan
- 4Department of Biophysics, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Marta Staniec
- 2Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka str. 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
| | - Stanisław Winiarczyk
- 2Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka str. 30, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
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Bouattour A, Chabchoub A, Hajjaji I, M'ghirbi Y. Hepatozoon canis and Babesia vogeli infections of dogs in Tunisia. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 23:100512. [PMID: 33678367 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
A paucity of studies is available on haemoparasites in dogs in Tunisia. In this study, we used molecular techniques (PCR/sequencing) to detect and characterize haemoprotozoa in sick dogs from Tunisia. A total of 99 dogs displaying such clinical symptoms as fever, anorexia, and depression were presented for treatment to the hospital of the Veterinary School of Sidi Thabet (Tunisia). Among dogs screened by PCR, five (5%) proved to be infected with a hemoprotozoa species. An analysis of all the sequences that were obtained enabled us to identify two species of Protozoa: Babesia vogeli (in three dogs) and Hepatozoon canis (in two other dogs). This is the first time that an infection of dogs by Hepatozoon canis in Tunisia has been reported. Veterinary practitioners should be aware that these two haemoparasites can infect dogs and should include them in any differential diagnosis of clinical illnesses with manifestations compatible with tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Bouattour
- Laboratoire de Virus, Vecteurs et Hôtes : LR20IPT10, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, 13, Place Pasteur, 1002 Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia.
| | - Ahmed Chabchoub
- Laboratoire de Virus, Vecteurs et Hôtes : LR20IPT10, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, 13, Place Pasteur, 1002 Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Ecole Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire, Sidi Thabet, Université Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Iheb Hajjaji
- Ecole Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire, Sidi Thabet, Université Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Youmna M'ghirbi
- Laboratoire de Virus, Vecteurs et Hôtes : LR20IPT10, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, 13, Place Pasteur, 1002 Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia.
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