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O'Neill DG, Komutrattananon R, Church DB, Hartley AN, Brodbelt DC. The epidemiology of tick infestation in dog breeds in the UK. J Small Anim Pract 2024; 65:569-581. [PMID: 38653546 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13727] [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] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to report the prevalence and risk factors for tick infestation in dogs in the UK based on anonymised electronic patient records. MATERIALS AND METHODS Clinical records of dogs under veterinary care in 2016 at clinics participating in the VetCompass Programme were followed over a 5-year period to identify cases of tick infestation. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression modelling. RESULTS The study included 905,553 dogs. From a random sample, 1903 tick infestation cases were identified. The estimated 5-year (2014 to 2018) period prevalence was 2.03% (95% confidence interval: 2.00 to 2.06). Sixteen breeds showed increased odds compared with non-designer-crossbreed dogs. Breeds with the highest odds included Cairn terrier (odds ratio 2.86, 95% confidence interval 1.64 to 4.98), standard poodle (odds ratio 2.80, 95% confidence interval 1.25 to 6.29) and Goldendoodle (odds ratio 2.63, 95% confidence interval 1.17 to 5.91). Six breeds showed reduced odds, with lowest odds shown by Staffordshire bull terrier (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.25 to 0.50), Rottweiler (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.15 to 0.85) and Chihuahua (odds ratio 0.38, 95% confidence interval 0.26 to 0.55). Males had 1.24 (95% confidence interval 1.13 to 1.36) times the odds of females. Compared with non-designer-crossbred dogs, designer-crossbreed dogs had increased odds (odds ratio 1.81, 95% confidence interval 1.52 to 2.15). Compared with breeds with short coats, breeds with medium length coats (odds ratio 2.20, 95% confidence interval 1.96 to 2.48) showed increased odds. Breeds with V-shaped drop and pendulous ear carriage had higher odds compared with breeds with erect ear carriage. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE These findings provide an evidence base for veterinary professionals to raise awareness of tick infestation as a preventable disorder in dogs in the UK and to support more effective prevention and therapeutic protocols based on targeted approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - R Komutrattananon
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - A N Hartley
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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Goren A, Mysterud A, Jore S, Viljugrein H, Bakka H, Vindenes Y. Demographic patterns in Lyme borreliosis seasonality over 25 years. Zoonoses Public Health 2023; 70:647-655. [PMID: 37458418 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Lyme borreliosis, the most common vector-borne disease in Europe and North America, is attracting growing concern due to its expanding geographic range. The growth in incidence and geographic spread is largely attributed to climate and land-use changes that support the tick vector and thereby increase disease risk. Despite a wide range of symptoms displayed by Lyme borreliosis patients, the demographic patterns in clinical manifestations and seasonal case timing have not been thoroughly investigated and may result from differences in exposure, immunity and pathogenesis. We analysed 25 years of surveillance data from Norway, supplemented by population demography data, using a Bayesian modelling framework. The analyses aimed to detect differences in case seasonality and clinical manifestations of Lyme borreliosis across age and sex differentiated patient groups. The results showed a bimodal pattern of incidence over age, where children (0-9 years) had the highest incidence, young adults (20-29 years) had low incidence and older adults had a second incidence peak in the ages 70-79 years. Youth (0-19 years) presented with a higher proportion of neuroborreliosis cases and a lower proportion of arthritic manifestations compared to adults (20+ years). Adult males had a higher overall incidence than adult females and a higher proportion of arthritis cases. The seasonal timing of Lyme borreliosis consistently occurred around 4.4 weeks earlier in youth compared to adults, regardless of clinical manifestation. All demographic groups exhibited a shift towards an earlier seasonal timing over the 25-year study period, which appeared unrelated to changes in population demographics. However, the disproportionate incidence of Lyme borreliosis in seniors requires increased public awareness and knowledge about this high-risk group as the population continues to age concurrently with disease emergence. Our findings highlight the importance of considering patient demographics when analysing the emergence and seasonal patterns of vector-borne diseases using long-term surveillance data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asena Goren
- Department of Biosciences, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Atle Mysterud
- Department of Biosciences, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Solveig Jore
- Zoonotic, Food & Waterborne Infections, The Norwegian Public Health Institute, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hildegunn Viljugrein
- Department of Biosciences, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Ås, Norway
| | | | - Yngvild Vindenes
- Department of Biosciences, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Koczwarska J, Pawełczyk A, Dunaj-Małyszko J, Polaczyk J, Welc-Falęciak R. Rickettsia species in Dermacentor reticulatus ticks feeding on human skin and clinical manifestations of tick-borne infections after tick bite. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9930. [PMID: 37336983 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37059-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Dermacentor reticulatus ticks are sporadically removed from human skin and therefore the medical consequences of their feeding are neglected compared to Ixodes ricinus. We investigated the prevalence of pathogens in D. reticulatus removed from human skin and possible clinical manifestations suggestive of tick-borne diseases after a tick bite. A total of 2153 ticks were studied and of these only 34 were D. reticulatus. The mean prevalence of Rickettsia in D. reticulatus was 50.0% and R. raoultii was identified in 82.4% of infected D. reticulatus ticks. We confirmed the first case of R. aeschlimannii infection in D. reticulatus ticks. Among participants bitten by D. reticulatus, 13.3% reported reddening around the tick bite site and flu-like symptoms, including lymphadenopathy and 3.3% reported eschar on the tick site bite. All of the participants with flu-like symptoms after tick removal were bitten by ticks infected with R. raoultii. The results of this study indicate that even though D. reticulatus ticks bite humans sporadically, pathogenic Rickettsia have a remarkably high prevalence in this tick species. We can expect that the incidence of tick-borne lymphadenopathy might increase with the reported expansion of the D. reticulatus into new areas and its growing abundance in Central Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Koczwarska
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Pawełczyk
- Department of Immunopathology of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, Pawińskiego 3C, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Dunaj-Małyszko
- Department of the Infectious Diseases and Neuroinfections, Medical University in Białystok, Żurawia 14, 15-540, Białystok, Poland
| | - Justyna Polaczyk
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Renata Welc-Falęciak
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland.
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Human attachment site preferences of ticks parasitizing in New York. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20897. [PMID: 36463334 PMCID: PMC9719493 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25486-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks transmit several arthropod-borne pathogens in New York State. The primary human-biting ticks in this region are Ixodes scapularis, Amblyomma americanum, and Dermacentor variabilis. Body regions where tick bites human vary depending on the tick species and life stage, and clothing worn by the host. A community tick submission system was used to acquire information about bite-site location prior to pathogen testing to understand species and life stage-specific body-segment preferences. These data resulted in the identification of species-specific preferences for location, with D. variabilis preferentially biting the head and neck and A. americanum preferring the thighs, groin, and abdomen. Ixodes scapularis was found across the body, although it showed a significant life stage difference with adults preferring the head, midsection, and groin, while nymphs/larvae preferred the extremities. Infection with Borrelia burgdorferi resulted in a significant change in attachment site. This provides an assessment of which body region ticks of the most common species in New York are likely to be found.
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Eisen L. Personal protection measures to prevent tick bites in the United States: Knowledge gaps, challenges, and opportunities. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:101944. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.101944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Tetens MM, Dessau R, Ellermann-Eriksen S, Andersen NS, Jørgensen CS, Østergaard C, Bodilsen J, Damgaard DF, Bangsborg J, Nielsen AC, Møller JK, Omland LH, Obel N, Lebech AM. The diagnostic value of serum Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies and seroconversion after Lyme neuroborreliosis, a nationwide observational study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2022; 28:1500.e1-1500.e6. [PMID: 35709901 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Clinical guidelines disagree on the diagnostic usefulness of Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb) serum antibodies (serum-Bb) in investigation of Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB). We investigated the association between serum-Bb and Bb intrathecal antibody index (Bb-AI) and rates of seroconversion and seroreversion after LNB. METHODS Danish residents who had a Bb-AI and corresponding serum-Bb measured between 1994-2020 were identified at all Danish departments of clinical microbiology. We used descriptive statistics to examine the proportions of positive Bb-AI combined with positive or negative serum-Bb antibody tests. Next, the rate of seroconversion and seroreversion among those with positive Bb-AI and either an initial negative or positive serum-Bb was estimated. RESULTS We included 34 609 individuals with a Bb-AI and corresponding serum-Bb. The proportion of individuals with positive Bb-AI who had negative serum-Bb was 16.8% (95% confidence interval (CI), 15.1-18.6). The proportion of individuals with positive serum-Bb IgM, serum-Bb IgG or serum-Bb IgM and IgG antibodies who had positive Bb-AI was 10.6% (95% CI, 9.5-11.8), 24.7% (95% CI, 23.0-26.4) and 45.0% (95% CI, 42.4-48.0), respectively. The proportion of children (<18 years) with positive serum-Bb IgM and IgG antibodies who had a positive Bb-AI was 59.7% (95% CI, 53.4-65.8). The proportion of individuals with positive Bb-AI with initial negative or positive serum-Bb antibodies who seroconverted or seroreverted within 2 years was 17.3% (95% CI, 6.9-27.8) and 23.2% (95% CI, 19.1-27.7), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Serum-Bb antibodies could not predict results of Bb-AI. A fifth of both seronegative and seropositive individuals with positive Bb-AI seroconverted or seroreverted within 2 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malte M Tetens
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Ram Dessau
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Slagelse Hospital, Slagelse, Denmark; Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Nanna S Andersen
- Clinical Centre for Emerging and Vector-borne Infections, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Christian Østergaard
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jacob Bodilsen
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - David F Damgaard
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jette Bangsborg
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Alex Christian Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Kjølseth Møller
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Vejle Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Lars Haukali Omland
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Obel
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne-Mette Lebech
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Schöbi N, Agyeman PKA, Duppenthaler A, Bartenstein A, Keller PM, Suter-Riniker F, Schmidt KM, Kopp MV, Aebi C. PEDIATRIC TULAREMIA– A CASE SERIES FROM A SINGLE CENTER IN SWITZERLAND. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac292. [PMID: 35873298 PMCID: PMC9301579 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence of tularemia has recently increased throughout Europe. Pediatric tularemia typically presents with ulceroglandular or glandular disease and requires antimicrobial therapy not used in the empirical management of childhood acute lymphadenitis. We describe the clinical presentation and course in a case series comprising 20 patients. Methods This is a retrospective analysis of a single-center case series of microbiologically confirmed tularemia in patients <16 years of age diagnosed between 2010 and 2021. Results Nineteen patients (95%) presented with ulceroglandular (n = 14) or glandular disease (n = 5), respectively. A characteristic entry site lesion (eschar) was present in 14 (74%). Fever was present at illness onset in 15 patients (75%) and disappeared in all patients before targeted therapy was initiated. The diagnosis was confirmed by serology in 18 patients (90%). While immunochromatography was positive as early as on day 7, a microagglutination test titer 1:≥160 was found no earlier than on day 13. Sixteen patients (80%) were initially treated with an antimicrobial agent ineffective against F. tularensis. The median delay (range) from illness onset to initiation of targeted therapy was 12 (6–40) days. Surgical incision and drainage were ultimately performed in 12 patients (60%). Conclusions Pediatric tularemia in Switzerland usually presents with early, self-limiting fever and a characteristic entry site lesion with regional lymphadenopathy draining the scalp or legs. Particularly in association with a tick exposure history, this presentation may allow early first-line therapy with an agent specifically targeting F. tularensis, potentially obviating the need for surgical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Schöbi
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern , Switzerland
| | - Philipp KA Agyeman
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern , Switzerland
| | - Andrea Duppenthaler
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern , Switzerland
| | - Andreas Bartenstein
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern , Switzerland
| | - Peter M Keller
- Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern , Switzerland
| | | | - Kristina M Schmidt
- Spiez Laboratory, Federal Office for Civil Protection and Swiss National Reference Center for Francisella tularensis (NANT) , Spiez , Switzerland
| | - Matthias V Kopp
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern , Switzerland
- 17 Center North (ARCN), Member of the German Lung Research Center (DZL) , 18 University of Luebeck , Germany
| | - Christoph Aebi
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern , Switzerland
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Vieira Lista MC, Belhassen-García M, Vicente Santiago MB, Sánchez-Montejo J, Pedroza Pérez C, Monsalve Arteaga LC, Herrador Z, del Álamo-Sanz R, Benito A, Soto López JD, Muro A. Identification and Distribution of Human-Biting Ticks in Northwestern Spain. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13050469. [PMID: 35621803 PMCID: PMC9144542 DOI: 10.3390/insects13050469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary We conducted a tick surveillance study in northwestern Spain. Nymphs of Ixodes ricinus were the most frequently collected. Rhipicephalus bursa, Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.), Hyalomma marginatum, Hy. lusitanicum, Dermacentor marginatus, D. reticulatus and Haemaphysalis punctata were also found, with adults as the main stage. The number of collected Hyalomma spp. and R. bursa has been progressively increasing over time. Although bites occurred throughout the year, the highest number of incidents was reported from April to July. The distribution patterns of the tick species were different between the north and the south of the region, which was related to cases detected in humans of the pathogens they carried. Adult men were more likely to be bitten by ticks than women. Ticks were most frequently removed from adults from the lower limbs, while for children, they were mainly attached to the head. Epidemiological surveillance is essential given the increase in tick populations in recent years. Abstract Ticks transmit a wide diversity of pathogens to a great variety of hosts, including humans. We conducted a tick surveillance study in northwestern Spain between 2014 and 2019. Ticks were removed from people and identified. Tick numbers, species, development stages, the timeline, seasonal and geographical distribution and epidemiological characteristics of people bitten by ticks were studied. We collected ticks from 8143 people. Nymphs of I. ricinus were the most frequently collected. Rhipicephalus bursa, R. sanguineus s.l., Hy. marginatum, Hy. lusitanicum, D. marginatus, D. reticulatus and H. punctata were also found, with adults as the main stage. The number of collected Hyalomma spp. and R. bursa has been progressively increasing over time. Although bites occurred throughout the year, the highest number of incidents was reported from April to July. The distribution patterns of the tick species were different between the north and the south of the region, which was related to cases detected in humans of the pathogens they carried. Adult men were more likely to be bitten by ticks than women. Ticks were most frequently removed from adults from the lower limbs, while for children, they were mainly attached to the head. Epidemiological surveillance is essential given the increase in tick populations in recent years, mainly of species potentially carrying pathogens causing emerging diseases in Spain, such as Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCFH).
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Affiliation(s)
- María Carmen Vieira Lista
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain; (M.C.V.L.); (M.B.V.S.); (J.S.-M.); (C.P.P.); (J.D.S.L.)
| | - Moncef Belhassen-García
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain; (M.C.V.L.); (M.B.V.S.); (J.S.-M.); (C.P.P.); (J.D.S.L.)
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.B.-G.); (A.M.)
| | - María Belén Vicente Santiago
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain; (M.C.V.L.); (M.B.V.S.); (J.S.-M.); (C.P.P.); (J.D.S.L.)
| | - Javier Sánchez-Montejo
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain; (M.C.V.L.); (M.B.V.S.); (J.S.-M.); (C.P.P.); (J.D.S.L.)
| | - Carlos Pedroza Pérez
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain; (M.C.V.L.); (M.B.V.S.); (J.S.-M.); (C.P.P.); (J.D.S.L.)
| | | | - Zaida Herrador
- National Centre for Tropical Medicine, Health Institute Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (Z.H.); (A.B.)
| | | | - Agustin Benito
- National Centre for Tropical Medicine, Health Institute Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (Z.H.); (A.B.)
| | - Julio David Soto López
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain; (M.C.V.L.); (M.B.V.S.); (J.S.-M.); (C.P.P.); (J.D.S.L.)
| | - Antonio Muro
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain; (M.C.V.L.); (M.B.V.S.); (J.S.-M.); (C.P.P.); (J.D.S.L.)
- Correspondence: (M.B.-G.); (A.M.)
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Johnson N, Phipps LP, Hansford KM, Folly AJ, Fooks AR, Medlock JM, Mansfield KL. One Health Approach to Tick and Tick-Borne Disease Surveillance in the United Kingdom. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19105833. [PMID: 35627370 PMCID: PMC9142090 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Where ticks are found, tick-borne diseases can present a threat to human and animal health. The aetiology of many of these important diseases, including Lyme disease, bovine babesiosis, tick-borne fever and louping ill, have been known for decades whilst others have only recently been documented in the United Kingdom (UK). Further threats such as the importation of exotic ticks through human activity or bird migration, combined with changes to either the habitat or climate could increase the risk of tick-borne disease persistence and transmission. Prevention of tick-borne diseases for the human population and animals (both livestock and companion) is dependent on a thorough understanding of where and when pathogen transmission occurs. This information can only be gained through surveillance that seeks to identify where tick populations are distributed, which pathogens are present within those populations, and the periods of the year when ticks are active. To achieve this, a variety of approaches can be applied to enhance knowledge utilising a diverse range of stakeholders (public health professionals and veterinarians through to citizen scientists). Without this information, the application of mitigation strategies to reduce pathogen transmission and impact is compromised and the ability to monitor the effects of climate change or landscape modification on the risk of tick-borne disease is more challenging. However, as with many public and animal health interventions, there needs to be a cost-benefit assessment on the most appropriate intervention applied. This review will assess the challenges of tick-borne diseases in the UK and argue for a cross-disciplinary approach to their surveillance and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Johnson
- Vector-Borne Diseases, Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (L.P.P.); (A.J.F.); (K.L.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lawrence Paul Phipps
- Vector-Borne Diseases, Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (L.P.P.); (A.J.F.); (K.L.M.)
| | - Kayleigh M. Hansford
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, UK Health Security Agency, Porton Down SP4 0JG, UK; (K.M.H.); (J.M.M.)
| | - Arran J. Folly
- Vector-Borne Diseases, Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (L.P.P.); (A.J.F.); (K.L.M.)
| | - Anthony R. Fooks
- International Development Team, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK;
| | - Jolyon M. Medlock
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, UK Health Security Agency, Porton Down SP4 0JG, UK; (K.M.H.); (J.M.M.)
| | - Karen L. Mansfield
- Vector-Borne Diseases, Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (L.P.P.); (A.J.F.); (K.L.M.)
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Detection of Borrelia and Babesia species in Haemaphysalis punctata ticks sampled in Southern England. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:101902. [PMID: 35042078 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.101902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The distribution and population size of the red sheep tick (Haemaphysalis punctata) are increasing in Northern Europe, and in the United Kingdom reports of human biting by this species have increased in recent years. To assess the risk of tick-borne disease (TBD) transmission to humans and livestock by H. punctata, ticks sampled from sites in Southern England were screened using PCR for either Borrelia species or piroplasms over a three year period, 2018-2020. A total of 302 H. punctata were collected from eight locations. From these, two Babesia species associated with TBD infections in livestock, Babesia major and Babesia motasi, and the human pathogen Borrelia miyamotoi were detected, predominantly from a single location in Sussex. Consequently, the range expansion of this tick across Southern England may impact public and livestock health.
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Urban woodland habitat is important for tick presence and density in a city in England. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 13:101857. [PMID: 34763308 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Urban green spaces provide an opportunity for contact between members of the public and ticks infected with pathogens. Understanding tick distribution within these areas and the drivers for increased tick density or Borrelia infection are important from a risk management perspective. This study aimed to generate data on tick presence, nymph density and Borrelia infection across a range of urban green space habitats, in order to identify those that may potentially present a higher risk of Lyme borreliosis to members of the public. Several sites were visited across the English city of Bath during 2015 and 2016. Tick presence was confirmed in all habitats surveyed, with increased likelihood in woodland and woodland edge. Highest nymph densities were also reported in these habitats, along with grassland during one of the sampling years. Adult ticks were more likely to be infected compared to nymphs, and the highest densities of infected nymphs were associated with woodland edge habitat. In addition to Lyme borreliosis causing Borrelia genospecies, Borrelia miyamotoi was also detected at several sites. This study adds to the growing evidence that urban green space habitats present a public health risk from tick bites, and this has implications for many policy areas including health and wellbeing, climate adaptation and urban green space planning.
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Mihaljica D, Marković D, Repac J, Božić B, Radulović Ž, Veinović G, Sukara R, Ristanović E, Chochlakis D, Nedeljković BB, Tomanović S. Exploring immunogenicity of tick salivary AV422 protein in persons exposed to ticks: prospects for utilization. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2021; 85:83-99. [PMID: 34432178 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-021-00653-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In order to determine whether conserved tick salivary protein AV422 is immunogenic, the goal of our study was to detect specific IgG response within at-risk populations. Study groups included 76 individuals, differing in occurrence of recently recorded tick bites and health status. Western blotting with recombinant (r) protein derived from Ixodes ricinus (Ir) was performed. IgG response to Borrelia/Rickettsia, as indicators of previous tick infestations, was also assessed. Additionally, a detailed in silico AV422 protein sequence analysis was performed, followed by modelling of the interactions between peptides and corresponding MHC II molecules by molecular docking. Anti-rIrAV422 seroprevalences among individuals exposed to ticks were high (62.5, 57.9 and 66.7%) and anti-Borrelia/Rickettsia seroprevalences were 54.2, 15.8 and 44.4% among individuals with/without recent tick bite and patients suspected of tick-borne disease, respectively. In silico analysis of AV422 protein sequence showed a high level of conservation across tick genera, including also the predicted antigenic determinants specific for T and B cells. Docking to the restricted MHC II molecules was performed for all predicted AV422 T cell epitopes, and the most potent (highly immunogenic) epitope determinants were suggested. The epitope prediction reveals that tick salivary protein AV422 may elicit humoral immune response in humans, which is consistent with the high anti-rIrAV422 seroprevalence in tested at-risk subjects. Tick-borne diseases are a growing public health concern worldwide, and AV422 is potentially useful in clinical practice and epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darko Mihaljica
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Dragana Marković
- Group for Immunology, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Repac
- Institute for Physiology and Biochemistry "Ivan Djaja", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bojan Božić
- Institute for Physiology and Biochemistry "Ivan Djaja", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Željko Radulović
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences and Mathematics, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX, USA
| | - Gorana Veinović
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ratko Sukara
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Elizabeta Ristanović
- Institute for Microbiology, University of Defense, Military Medical Academy, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dimosthenis Chochlakis
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Snežana Tomanović
- Group for Medical Entomology, Centre of Excellence for Food- and Vector-Borne Zoonoses, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Garcia-Vozmediano A, Giglio G, Ramassa E, Nobili F, Rossi L, Tomassone L. Low Risk Perception about Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases in an Area Recently Invaded by Ticks in Northwestern Italy. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8070131. [PMID: 34357923 PMCID: PMC8310202 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8070131] [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: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Risk perception, together with the adoption of measures to prevent tick bites, may strongly influence human exposure to ticks and transmitted pathogens. We created a questionnaire to evaluate how people perceive the health risk posed by ticks in an area recently invaded by these arthropods, in the western Italian Alps. Moreover, through a collaborative effort with park rangers and physicians, we investigated which tick species bite humans and their infection with pathogens (Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and spotted-fever group Rickettsiae). Apart from two Dermacentor marginatus bites, we identified Ixodes ricinus (n = 124) as the main species responsible for tick bites. The investigated pathogens infected 25.4% of tested I. ricinus. The evaluation of the engorgement rate of biting I. ricinus revealed that they had been likely feeding on humans for 24 h or more, suggesting a high probability of pathogen transmission. Indeed, the questionnaires revealed that people infrequently adopt preventive measures, such as inspecting the body for ticks, although most respondents claimed that ticks are a threat to human health. Having suffered from previous tick bites was positively associated with the adoption of personal protection measures. Given the increasing incidence of tick-borne diseases in the region, the public should be better informed about the possibility of being bitten by infected ticks in order to mitigate the risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (A.G.-V.); (G.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Giorgia Giglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (A.G.-V.); (G.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Elisa Ramassa
- Ente di Gestione delle Aree Protette delle Alpi Cozie, Via Fransuà Fontan, 1, 10050 Salbertrand, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Nobili
- Ente di Gestione delle Aree Protette del Po Torinese, Corso Trieste 98, 10024 Moncalieri, Italy;
| | - Luca Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (A.G.-V.); (G.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (A.G.-V.); (G.G.); (L.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-011-670-9195
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Pawełczyk A, Bednarska M, Hamera A, Religa E, Poryszewska M, Mierzejewska EJ, Welc-Falęciak R. Long-term study of Borrelia and Babesia prevalence and co-infection in Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor recticulatus ticks removed from humans in Poland, 2016-2019. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:348. [PMID: 34210355 PMCID: PMC8252237 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04849-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lyme borreliosis (LB) is the most common vector-borne disease in Europe. Monitoring changes in the prevalence of different Borrelia species in ticks may be an important indicator of risk assessment and of differences in pathogenicity in humans. The objective of our study was to assess the prevalence, co-infection and distribution of Borrelia and Babesia species in ticks removed from humans in a large sample collected during a study period of 4 years. Methods The ticks were collected throughout Poland from March to November over 4-year period from 2016 to 2019. All ticks (n = 1953) were morphologically identified in terms of species and developmental stage. Molecular screening for Borrelia and Babesia by amplification of the flagellin gene (flaB) or 18S rRNA marker was performed. Pathogen identity was confirmed by Sanger sequencing or PCR–restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Results The ticks removed from humans in Poland during this study belonged to two species: Ixodes ricinus (97%) and Dermacentor reticulatus (3%). High Borrelia prevalence (25.3%), including B. miyamotoi (8.4%), was confirmed in Ixodes ricinus ticks removed from humans, as was the change in frequency of occurrence of Borrelia species during the 4-year study. Despite Babesia prevalence being relatively low (1.3%), the majority of tested isolates are considered to be pathogenic to humans. Babesia infection was observed more frequently among Borrelia-positive ticks (2.7%) than among ticks uninfected with Borrelia (0.8%). The most frequent dual co-infections were between Borrelia afzelii and Babesia microti. The presence of Borrelia was also confirmed in D. reticulatus (12.7%); however the role of these ticks in spirochete transmission to susceptible hosts is still unclear. Conclusions Although the overall risk of developing LB after a tick bite is low in Europe, knowledge of the prevalence and distribution of Borrelia and Babesia species in ticks might be an important indicator of the risk of both these tick-borne diseases. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04849-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Pawełczyk
- Department of Immunopathology of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, 3C Pawińskiego Street, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Bednarska
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 1 Miecznikowa Street, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adrianna Hamera
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 1 Miecznikowa Street, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Emilia Religa
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 1 Miecznikowa Street, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Milena Poryszewska
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 1 Miecznikowa Street, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa J Mierzejewska
- Wild Urban Evolution and Ecology Lab, Centre of New Technologies, Banacha 2c Street, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Renata Welc-Falęciak
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 1 Miecznikowa Street, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland.
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Hansford KM, McGinley L, Wilkinson S, Gillingham EL, Cull B, Gandy S, Carter DP, Vaux AGC, Richards S, Hayes A, Medlock JM. Ixodes ricinus and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in the Royal Parks of London, UK. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2021; 84:593-606. [PMID: 34125334 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-021-00633-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Assessing the risk of tick-borne disease in areas with high visitor numbers is important from a public health perspective. Evidence suggests that tick presence, density, infection prevalence and the density of infected ticks can vary between habitats within urban green space, suggesting that the risk of Lyme borreliosis transmission can also vary. This study assessed nymph density, Borrelia prevalence and the density of infected nymphs across a range of habitat types in nine parks in London which receive millions of visitors each year. Ixodes ricinus were found in only two of the nine locations sampled, and here they were found in all types of habitat surveyed. Established I. ricinus populations were identified in the two largest parks, both of which had resident free-roaming deer populations. Highest densities of nymphs (15.68 per 100 m2) and infected nymphs (1.22 per 100 m2) were associated with woodland and under canopy habitats in Richmond Park, but ticks infected with Borrelia were found across all habitat types surveyed. Nymphs infected with Borrelia (7.9%) were only reported from Richmond Park, where Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto and Borrelia afzelii were identified as the dominant genospecies. Areas with short grass appeared to be less suitable for ticks and maintaining short grass in high footfall areas could be a good strategy for reducing the risk of Lyme borreliosis transmission to humans in such settings. In areas where this would create conflict with existing practices which aim to improve and/or meet historic landscape, biodiversity and public access goals, promoting public health awareness of tick-borne disease risks could also be utilised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayleigh M Hansford
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK.
| | - Liz McGinley
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | | | - Emma L Gillingham
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Ben Cull
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Sara Gandy
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Daniel P Carter
- Genomics of Rare and Emerging Human Pathogens, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Alexander G C Vaux
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Simon Richards
- The Royal Parks, The Old Police House, Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH, UK
| | - Alister Hayes
- The Royal Parks, The Old Police House, Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH, UK
| | - Jolyon M Medlock
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
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16
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Cull B. Potential for online crowdsourced biological recording data to complement surveillance for arthropod vectors. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250382. [PMID: 33930066 PMCID: PMC8087023 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Voluntary contributions by citizen scientists can gather large datasets covering wide geographical areas, and are increasingly utilized by researchers for multiple applications, including arthropod vector surveillance. Online platforms such as iNaturalist accumulate crowdsourced biological observations from around the world and these data could also be useful for monitoring vectors. The aim of this study was to explore the availability of observations of important vector taxa on the iNaturalist platform and examine the utility of these data to complement existing vector surveillance activities. Of ten vector taxa investigated, records were most numerous for mosquitoes (Culicidae; 23,018 records, 222 species) and ticks (Ixodida; 16,214 records, 87 species), with most data from 2019–2020. Case studies were performed to assess whether images associated with records were of sufficient quality to identify species and compare iNaturalist observations of vector species to the known situation at the state, national and regional level based on existing published data. Firstly, tick data collected at the national (United Kingdom) or state (Minnesota, USA) level were sufficient to determine seasonal occurrence and distribution patterns of important tick species, and were able to corroborate and complement known trends in tick distribution. Importantly, tick species with expanding distributions (Haemaphysalis punctata in the UK, and Amblyomma americanum in Minnesota) were also detected. Secondly, using iNaturalist data to monitor expanding tick species in Europe (Hyalomma spp.) and the USA (Haemaphysalis longicornis), and invasive Aedes mosquitoes in Europe, showed potential for tracking these species within their known range as well as identifying possible areas of expansion. Despite known limitations associated with crowdsourced data, this study shows that iNaturalist can be a valuable source of information on vector distribution and seasonality that could be used to supplement existing vector surveillance data, especially at a time when many surveillance programs may have been interrupted by COVID-19 restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Cull
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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17
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Are Orienteers Protected Enough against Tick Bites? Estimating Human Exposure to Tick Bites through a Participative Science Survey during an Orienteering Competition. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18063161. [PMID: 33803910 PMCID: PMC8003242 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18063161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mass-participation events in temperate forests are now well-established features of outdoor activities and represent high-risk activities regarding human exposition to tick bites. In this study we used a citizen science approach to quantify the space-time frequency of tick bites and undetected tick bites among orienteers that participated in a 6-day orienteering competition that took place in July 2018 in the forests of Eastern France, and we looked at the use and efficacy of different preventive behaviors. Our study confirms that orienteers are a high-risk population for tick bites, with 62.4% of orienteers bitten at least once during the competition, and 2.4 to 12.1 orienteers per 100 orienteers were bitten by ticks when walking 1 km. In addition, 16.7% of orienteers bitten by ticks had engorged ticks, meaning that they did not detect and remove their ticks immediately after the run. Further, only 8.5% of orienteers systematically used a repellent, and the use of repellent only partially reduced the probability of being bitten by ticks. These results represent the first attempt to quantify the risk of not immediately detecting a tick bite and provide rare quantitative data on the frequency of tick bites for orienteers according to walking distance and time spent in the forest. The results also provide information on the use of repellent, which will be very helpful for modeling risk assessment. The study also shows that prevention should be increased for orienteers in France.
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Eisen L, Eisen RJ. Benefits and Drawbacks of Citizen Science to Complement Traditional Data Gathering Approaches for Medically Important Hard Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) in the United States. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1-9. [PMID: 32772108 PMCID: PMC8056287 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases are increasing in North America. Knowledge of which tick species and associated human pathogens are present locally can inform the public and medical community about the acarological risk for tick bites and tick-borne infections. Citizen science (also called community-based monitoring, volunteer monitoring, or participatory science) is emerging as a potential approach to complement traditional tick record data gathering where all aspects of the work is done by researchers or public health professionals. One key question is how citizen science can best be used to generate high-quality data to fill knowledge gaps that are difficult to address using traditional data gathering approaches. Citizen science is particularly useful to generate information on human-tick encounters and may also contribute to geographical tick records to help define species distributions across large areas. Previous citizen science projects have utilized three distinct tick record data gathering methods including submission of: 1) physical tick specimens for identification by professional entomologists, 2) digital images of ticks for identification by professional entomologists, and 3) data where the tick species and life stage were identified by the citizen scientist. We explore the benefits and drawbacks of citizen science, relative to the traditional scientific approach, to generate data on tick records, with special emphasis on data quality for species identification and tick encounter locations. We recognize the value of citizen science to tick research but caution that the generated information must be interpreted cautiously with data quality limitations firmly in mind to avoid misleading conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Eisen
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3156 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80521
| | - Rebecca J. Eisen
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3156 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80521
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Johnson N, Paul Phipps L, McFadzean H, Barlow AM. An outbreak of bovine babesiosis in February, 2019, triggered by above average winter temperatures in southern England and co-infection with Babesia divergens and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:305. [PMID: 32532309 PMCID: PMC7291436 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04174-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bovine babesiosis, commonly known as redwater fever, is a sporadic tick-borne disease in the United Kingdom. Outbreaks occur during the spring, summer and autumn months when ticks are active. This study reports the findings of an investigation of an outbreak of bovine babesiosis during the winter month of February, 2019. METHODS DNA from blood, organ and tick samples taken from affected cattle were tested for the presence of piroplasm and Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA using PCRs directed to the 18S rRNA gene and msp2 gene respectively. The species of piroplasm was confirmed by sequencing. RESULTS Babesia divergens DNA was detected in the blood of five cattle displaying clinical signs of babesiosis within a herd of twenty. This parasite was also detected in three of ten ticks removed from one of the affected cattle. In addition, A. phagocytophilum was detected in three cattle tested and two of ten of the ticks. CONCLUSIONS An outbreak of bovine babesiosis during February is unusual as the tick vector, Ixodes ricinus, does not generally become active until temperatures rise later in the year. February of 2019 was unusual as average temperatures during the first week of the month reached over 10 °C, well above historical averages that are typically below 5 °C, and a temperature at which ticks can become active. This unusual weather event is likely to have triggered tick questing, that combined with a co-infection with two tick-borne pathogens caused the severe outbreak of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Johnson
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, Surrey, UK. .,Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK.
| | - L Paul Phipps
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (Weybridge), Woodham Lane, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, Surrey, UK
| | - Harriet McFadzean
- Veterinary Investigation Centre Starcross, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Staplake Mount, Starcross, Exeter, EX6 8PE, Devon, UK
| | - Alex M Barlow
- Wildlife Network for Disease Surveillance, School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, Somerset, BS40 5DU, UK
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Jore S, Vanwambeke SO, Slunge D, Boman A, Krogfelt KA, Jepsen MT, Vold L. Spatial tick bite exposure and associated risk factors in Scandinavia. Infect Ecol Epidemiol 2020; 10:1764693. [PMID: 32922687 PMCID: PMC7448850 DOI: 10.1080/20008686.2020.1764693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases are emerging and re-emerging threats causing public health concerns in Europe and North America. Prevention and control requires understanding of human exposure and behaviour. The aim was to measure exposure to tick bites across Scandinavia, its spatial distribution and the associated risk factors. Methods We sent a web-based survey to a randomly chosen population and analysed answers by Principal Component Analysis and Chi-Square. Individual responses were aggregated at the municipality level to assess the spatial distribution of bites. Results Nearly 60% of adults reported bites at low levels (1-5 bites); however, the majority were not in their resident municipality. We found two spatial profiles: In their home municipalities, people were most often bitten in less, but not the least, urbanized areas. When visiting other municipalities, people were most frequently bitten in peri-urban areas. Running/walking in the forest, gardening, and paddling/rowing were activities most strongly associated with bites. Conclusion Tick bites affect the entire Scandinavian population, with a higher risk in Sweden compared to Denmark and Norway. The frequency of observation of ticks in the environment or on pets might be used as a proxy for the actual risk of exposure to tick bites. Our results indicates that urban-dwelling outdoor enthusiasts and inhabitants of rural areas must be equally targeted for prevention campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solveig Jore
- Department of Infection Prevention & Preparedness, Norwegian Public Health Institute, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sophie O Vanwambeke
- Georges Lemaître Centre for Earth and Climate Research, Earth & Life Institute, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Daniel Slunge
- Center for Sustainable Development, GMV, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Boman
- Department of Economics, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Karen A Krogfelt
- Department of Virus and Microbiological Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Dept of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Martin Tugwell Jepsen
- Department of Virus and Microbiological Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Line Vold
- Department of Infection Prevention & Preparedness, Norwegian Public Health Institute, Oslo, Norway
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Gillingham EL, Hall JL, Birtles RJ, Bown KJ, Medlock JM, Smith R, Hansford KM, Warner JC, Dryden M, Pietzsch ME. Study of general practitioner consultations for tick bites at high, medium and low incidence areas for Lyme borreliosis in England and Wales. Zoonoses Public Health 2020; 67:591-599. [PMID: 32159295 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12694] [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: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Lyme borreliosis (LB) is a tick-borne disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. In Europe, it is predominately transmitted by the sheep tick, Ixodes ricinus. Compared with other European countries, the United Kingdom (UK) is considered to have a low incidence of LB, although this varies regionally. To determine whether an association exists between tick bite consultations and LB incidence in the UK, retrospective questionnaires were sent to general practitioners (GPs) in high (Wiltshire), medium (Cumbria) and low (Wales) incidence areas. During 2011, the greatest incidence of consultations for tick bites was reported by GPs in Cumbria (204 consultations per 100,000 inhabitants), followed by Wiltshire (160 per 100,000 population) and Wales (54 per 100,000 population). In Wiltshire and Cumbria, GPs predominantly provided advice on tick removal, whilst Welsh GPs mostly advised patients on tick bite prevention. Focusing on Cumbria during 2011-2013, 72.5% of GPs removed ticks from patients (incidence of 101 consultations per 100,000 population), and more GPs diagnosed LB based on clinical features than laboratory-confirmed diagnoses. To date, this is the first study to investigate the incidence of tick bite consultations and LB in England and Wales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Gillingham
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Salisbury, UK
| | - Jessica L Hall
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Salford, UK
| | - Richard J Birtles
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Salford, UK
| | - Kevin J Bown
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Salford, UK
| | - Jolyon M Medlock
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Salisbury, UK.,NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Kayleigh M Hansford
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Salisbury, UK
| | - Jenny C Warner
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Liverpool, UK.,Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory, Public Health England, Salisbury, UK
| | - Matthew Dryden
- Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory, Public Health England, Salisbury, UK.,Department of Microbiology, Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Winchester, UK
| | - Maaike E Pietzsch
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Salisbury, UK
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