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Chikufenji B, Mohanta UK, Hayashida K, Chatanga E, Galon EM, Kamanga N, Ringo AE, Ma Z, Xuan X. Molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of tick-borne pathogens in cattle from southern Malawi. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:2753-2760. [PMID: 38676858 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-024-10395-z] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a major hindrance to livestock production in countries with limited resources. Effective prevention and management of TBDs require a thorough understanding of disease vectors and pathogens. However, there is limited information on studies of bovine tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) using molecular methods in Malawi. This study aimed to detect TBPs of cattle populations in southern Malawi, which has the largest cattle population in the country. METHODOLOGY A total of 220 blood samples from apparently healthy cattle were collected in six districts, and were screened for selected TBPs using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS The overall detection rate of TBPs was 72.3%. Among the detected pathogens, Babesia bigemina had the highest detection rate (34.5%), followed by Anaplasma marginale (23.2%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (22.3%), Theileria taurotragi (22.3%), Theileria parva (15.5%), Anaplasma bovis (9.6%), Babesia bovis (7.3%), Theileria mutans (4.1%), and Babesia naoakii (2.7%). Among the positive samples, 64.2% were found to be co-infected with two or more TBPs, with the highest number of seven pathogens detected in a single sample. The study documents the existence of A. phagocytophilum, B. bovis, and B. naoakii in Malawian cattle for the first time. CONCLUSION The findings herein demonstrate a significant burden of TBPs on cattle in Malawi, which gives a challenge in combating TBDs. The high TBP burden, along with the high co-infection frequencies in Malawian cattle necessitates the urgency to implement effective control strategies to enhance cattle production in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boniface Chikufenji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture Irrigation and Water Development, Post Office Box 2096, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Vets of Purpose Organization, Post Office Box 2355, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Uday Kumar Mohanta
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan.
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Sher‒e‒Bangla Agricultural University, Sher‒e‒Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, 1207, Bangladesh.
| | - Kyoko Hayashida
- Division of Collaboration and Education, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Kita-20, Nishi-10, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 001-0020, Japan
| | - Elisha Chatanga
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Post Office Box 219, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Eloiza May Galon
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cavite State University, 4122, Indang, Cavite, Philippines
| | - Nathan Kamanga
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture Irrigation and Water Development, Post Office Box 2096, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Aaron Edmond Ringo
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Zhuowei Ma
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan.
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Cossu CA, Cassini R, Bhoora RV, Menandro ML, Oosthuizen MC, Collins NE, Wentzel J, Quan M, Fagir DM, van Heerden H. Occurrence and molecular prevalence of Anaplasmataceae, Rickettsiaceae and Coxiellaceae in African wildlife: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prev Vet Med 2024; 230:106257. [PMID: 38955115 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106257] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) constitute an emerging threat to public and animal health especially in the African continent, where land-use change, and wildlife loss are creating new opportunities for disease transmission. A review of TBPs with a focus on ticks determined the epidemiology of Rhipicephalus ticks in heartwater and the affinity of each Rickettsia species for different tick genera. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to collect, map and estimate the molecular prevalence of Anaplasmataceae, Rickettsiaceae and Coxiellaceae in African wildlife. MATERIALS AND METHODS Relevant scientific articles were retrieved from five databases: PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Ovid and OAIster. Publications were selected according to pre-determined exclusion criteria and evaluated for risk of bias using the appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS). We conducted an initial descriptive analysis followed by a meta-analysis to estimate the molecular prevalence of each pathogen. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression models were employed to unravel associations with disease determinants. Finally, the quality of evidence of every estimate was finally assessed. RESULTS Out of 577 retrieved papers, a total of 41 papers were included in the qualitative analysis and 27 in the meta-analysis. We retrieved 21 Anaplasmataceae species, six Rickettsiaceae species and Coxiella burnetii. Meta-analysis was performed for a total of 11 target pathogens. Anaplasma marginale, Ehrlichia ruminantium and Anaplasma centrale were the most prevalent in African bovids (13.9 %, CI: 0-52.4 %; 20.9 %, CI: 4.1-46.2 %; 13.9 %, CI: 0-68.7 %, respectively). Estimated TBPs prevalences were further stratified per animal order, family, species and sampling country. DISCUSSION We discussed the presence of a sylvatic cycle for A. marginale and E. ruminantium in wild African bovids, the need to investigate A. phagocytophilum in African rodents and non-human primates as well as E. canis in the tissues of wild carnivores, and a lack of data and characterization of Rickettsia species and C. burnetii. CONCLUSION Given the lack of epidemiological data on wildlife diseases, the current work can serve as a starting point for future epidemiological and/or experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Cossu
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa; Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Legnaro 35020, Italy.
| | - R Cassini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Legnaro 35020, Italy
| | - R V Bhoora
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - M L Menandro
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Legnaro 35020, Italy
| | - M C Oosthuizen
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - N E Collins
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - J Wentzel
- Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa; Wildlife Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - M Quan
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - D M Fagir
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - H van Heerden
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
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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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Mohanta UK, Chikufenji B, Galon EM, Ji S, Ma Z, El-Sayed SAES, Amer MM, Do TT, Xuan X. Molecular characterization and phylogeny of Anaplasma marginale, A. phagocytophilum and A. bovis in livestock of Bangladesh. Parasitol Int 2023; 97:102790. [PMID: 37544642 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2023.102790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of Tick-borne Anaplasma spp. poses a significant threat to humans and animals worldwide. Traditional surveys based on examining blood smears overlook the existence of emerging pathogens. This study aimed to screen Anaplasma spp. in livestock species from diverse geographies with molecular tools. We collected 276 blood samples from cattle (Bos indicus), gayals (Bos frontalis) and goats (Capra hircus) in Jhenaidah, Bogura, Sirajganj and Bandarban districts, and Naikhongchari sub-district from June 2021 to March 2022. After that, a molecular screening was conducted through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing was done to confirm the PCR results. The PCR assays were performed based on the analyses of groEL (Anaplasma marginale) and 16S rRNA (A. phagocytophilum and A. bovis). The Anaplasma spp. detected in this study were A. marginale (10.51%), A. phagocytophilum (0.72%), and A. bovis (63.77%). However, A. platys was not detected in this study. Among the screened pathogens, the detection of A. bovis (82.86%) was significantly high in the Bandarban district, while A. marginale was found only in cattle in this location. Regarding animal species, the occurrence of A. bovis was significantly higher in cattle. Moreover, the detection rate of A. marginale was significantly higher in adult cattle (≥2 years). The phylogenetic analyses revealed that the groEL sequences of A. marginale and 16S rRNA sequences of A. bovis and A. phagocytophilum were included in a single clade in the respective phylograms, showing a single genotype of each species circulating in Bangladesh. This study reports the existence of A. phagocytophilum in Bangladesh for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uday Kumar Mohanta
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan; Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
| | - Boniface Chikufenji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Eloiza May Galon
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Shengwei Ji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Zhuowei Ma
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Shimaa Abd El-Salam El-Sayed
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Moaz M Amer
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Thanh Thom Do
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan.
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Makgabo SM, Brayton KA, Oosthuizen MC, Collins NE. Unravelling the diversity of Anaplasma species circulating in selected African wildlife hosts by targeted 16S microbiome analysis. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2023; 5:100198. [PMID: 37675244 PMCID: PMC10477809 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2023.100198] [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: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Organisms in the genus Anaplasma are obligate intracellular alphaproteobacteria. Bovine anaplasmosis, predominantly caused by Anaplasma marginale, is the most prevalent tick-borne disease (TBD) of cattle worldwide. Other Anaplasma species are known to cause disease; these include A. ovis, A. platys in dogs, A. capra in goats and humans, and A. phagocytophilum in humans. The rapid advancement of next-generation sequencing technologies has led to the discovery of many novel sequences ascribed to the genus Anaplasma, with over 20 putative new species being proposed since the last formal organization of the genus. Most 16S rRNA gene surveys for Anaplasma were conducted on cattle and to a lesser extent on rodents, dogs, and ticks. Little is known about the occurrence, diversity, or impact of Anaplasma species circulating in wildlife species. Therefore, we conducted a 16S rRNA gene survey with the goal of identifying Anaplasma species in a variety of wildlife species in the Kruger National Park and neighbouring game reserves, using an unbiased 16S rRNA gene microbiome approach. An Anaplasma/Ehrlichia-group specific quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay revealed the presence of Anaplasma and/or Ehrlichia species in 70.0% (21/30) of African buffalo, 86.7% (26/30) of impala, 36.7% (11/30) of greater kudu, 3.2% (1/31) of African wild dog, 40.6% (13/32) of Burchell's zebra, 43.3% (13/30) of warthog, 22.6% (7/31) of spotted hyena, 40.0% (12/30) of leopard, 17.6% (6/34) of lion, 16.7% (5/30) of African elephant and 8.6% (3/35) of white rhinoceros samples. Microbiome sequencing data from the qPCR positive samples revealed four 16S rRNA sequences identical to previously published Anaplasma sequences, as well as nine novel Anaplasma 16S genotypes. Our results reveal a greater diversity of putative Anaplasma species circulating in wildlife than currently classified within the genus. Our findings highlight a potential expansion of the Anaplasma host range and the need for more genetic information from other important genes or genome sequencing of putative novel species for correct classification and further assessment of their occurrence in wildlife, livestock and companion animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Marcus Makgabo
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa (UNISA), Florida Campus, Roodepoort, 1709, South Africa
| | - Kelly A. Brayton
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Marinda C. Oosthuizen
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - Nicola E. Collins
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
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Day CA, Butler RA, Durick HE, Chandler JG, Paulsen DJ, Mordoh SL, Foggin C, Parry R, Moyo I, Russo L, Kennedy MA, Trout Fryxell RT. An ecological and epidemiological single-season survey of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia positive ticks in Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 37:195-208. [PMID: 36695750 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
There is an urgent need for continued research on the ecology of tick-borne diseases in Africa. Our objective was to provide a preliminary description of the ecology and epidemiology of tick species, tick-borne pathogens, and animal hosts in Zimbabwe, focusing efforts at Victoria Falls National Park, for a single season. We tested the hypothesis that tick surveillance and pathogen screening data can be used to model associations among ticks, hosts, and pathogens. We collected ticks from domesticated animals and wildlife in Zimbabwe and screened the ticks for the presence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia bacteria. Nearly 30% of the screened ticks were PCR-positive; 89% of tick species were PCR-positive, and 88% of animal species carried at least one PCR-positive tick. We sequenced a subset of amplicons that were similar to three Anaplasma species and three Ehrlichia species. The odds of a tick being PCR-positive increased when many ticks were collected from the host or the tick was collected from a cow (domesticated animal). Tick species shared host species more often than expected. We demonstrate that ticks in northwestern Zimbabwe present a One Health problem for nearby wildlife and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Day
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - R A Butler
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - H E Durick
- Center for Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - J G Chandler
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - David J Paulsen
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - S L Mordoh
- Center for Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - C Foggin
- Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
| | - R Parry
- Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
| | - I Moyo
- Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
| | - L Russo
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - M A Kennedy
- Center for Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - R T Trout Fryxell
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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Kolo A. Anaplasma Species in Africa-A Century of Discovery: A Review on Molecular Epidemiology, Genetic Diversity, and Control. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12050702. [PMID: 37242372 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12050702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Anaplasma species, belonging to the family Anaplasmataceae in the order Rickettsiales, are obligate intracellular bacteria responsible for various tick-borne diseases of veterinary and human significance worldwide. With advancements in molecular techniques, seven formal species of Anaplasma and numerous unclassified species have been described. In Africa, several Anaplasma species and strains have been identified in different animals and tick species. This review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of the molecular epidemiology and genetic diversity of classified and unclassified Anaplasma species detected in animals and ticks across Africa. The review also covers control measures that have been taken to prevent anaplasmosis transmission on the continent. This information is critical when developing anaplasmosis management and control programs in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agatha Kolo
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
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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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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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10
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Chatanga E, Maganga E, Mohamed WMA, Ogata S, Pandey GS, Abdelbaset AE, Hayashida K, Sugimoto C, Katakura K, Nonaka N, Nakao R. High infection rate of tick-borne protozoan and rickettsial pathogens of cattle in Malawi and the development of a multiplex PCR for Babesia and Theileria species identification. Acta Trop 2022; 231:106413. [PMID: 35307457 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Malawi has an estimated cattle population of 1,884,803 heads, the indigenous Malawi zebu breed accounts for 91.2%, while the exotic and crossbred accounts for the remaining 8.8%. Although ticks and tick-borne diseases are widespread in Malawi, no molecular study has been conducted to investigate the tick-borne Anaplasmataceae and piroplasms infecting cattle. To provide an insight into the current status of tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) of cattle, a molecular survey was conducted in the central and southern regions of Malawi. A total of 191 cattle of which 132 were Malawi zebu, 44 were Holstein Friesian and 15 were Holstein-Friesian/ Malawi zebu crosses were screened for Anaplasmataceae and piroplasms using the heat shock protein groEL gene and 18S rDNA, respectively. A new 18S rDNA multiplex PCR assay was designed for Babesia and Theileria species identification without sequencing. Overall, 92.3% (n = 177) of the examined animals were infected with at least one TBP. Anaplasmataceae-positive rate was 57.6% (n = 110) while for piroplasms it was 80.1% (n = 153). The detected Anaplasmataceae were Anaplasma bovis 2.6% (n = 5), Anaplasma marginale 24.6% (n = 47), Anaplasma platys-like 13.6% (n = 26), uncharacterized Anaplasma sp. 14.1% (n = 27), and uncharacterized Ehrlichia sp. 16.2% (n = 31). The detected piroplasms were Babesia bigemina 2.6% (n = 5), Theileria mutans 73.8% (n = 141), Theileria parva 33.0% (n = 63), Theileria taurotragi 12.6% (n = 24), and Theileria velifera 53.4% (n = 102). Mixed infection rate was found in 79.6% (n = 152) of the samples analyzed. This study has shown a high burden of TBPs among cattle in Malawi which highlights the need to conceive new methods to control ticks and TBPs in order to improve animal health and productivity. The newly developed multiplex PCR assay would be a useful tool especially in resource limited settings where sequencing is not available and when mixed infections are expected.
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11
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The Use and Limitations of the 16S rRNA Sequence for Species Classification of Anaplasma Samples. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10030605. [PMID: 35336180 PMCID: PMC8949108 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10030605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
With the advent of cheaper, high-throughput sequencing technologies, the ability to survey biodiversity in previously unexplored niches and geographies has expanded massively. Within Anaplasma, a genus containing several intra-hematopoietic pathogens of medical and economic importance, at least 25 new species have been proposed since the last formal taxonomic organization. Given the obligate intracellular nature of these bacteria, none of these proposed species have been able to attain formal standing in the nomenclature per the International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes rules. Many novel species’ proposals use sequence data obtained from targeted or metagenomic PCR studies of only a few genes, most commonly the 16S rRNA gene. We examined the utility of the 16S rRNA gene sequence for discriminating Anaplasma samples to the species level. We find that while the genetic diversity of the genus Anaplasma appears greater than appreciated in the last organization of the genus, caution must be used when attempting to resolve to a species descriptor from the 16S rRNA gene alone. Specifically, genomically distinct species have similar 16S rRNA gene sequences, especially when only partial amplicons of the 16S rRNA are used. Furthermore, we provide key bases that allow classification of the formally named species of Anaplasma.
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12
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Molecular Detection of Coxiella burnetii, Rickettsia africae and Anaplasma Species in Ticks from Domestic Animals in Lesotho. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091186. [PMID: 34578218 PMCID: PMC8468460 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091186] [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: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) hamper the growth of the livestock sector and impose major constraints for the health and management of domestic animals in the tropic and subtropical regions globally. Currently, there is no scientific report on the presence of zoonotic pathogens transmitted by tick species in Lesotho. This study aimed to identify zoonotic tick-borne pathogens of economic importance from ticks infesting domestic animals in Lesotho using molecular techniques. A total of 322 tick DNA pools were subjected to PCR screening for the presence of zoonotic pathogens and sequenced. The overall prevalence of Anaplasma spp. was 35% (113/322), with a 100% infection rate in Rhipicephalus microplus, followed by R. evertsi evertsi (92%), Hyalomma rufipes and Otobius megnini sharing 50% and the lowest infection rate was observed in R. decoloratus with 40%. The prevalence of Coxiella burnetii, a gram-negative pleomorphic etiological agent of Query fever (Q fever), was 1% (2/322) for all screened samples, with 20% of R. decoloratus and 1% of R. e. evertsi infected. Rickettsia africae was detected from Hyalomma rufipes with a 70% prevalence. This study provides a baseline knowledge of tick-borne pathogens of medical and veterinary importance in Lesotho and raises awareness of the prevalence of such diseases within the tourism sector as they are mostly affected.
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13
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El Hamiani Khatat S, Daminet S, Duchateau L, Elhachimi L, Kachani M, Sahibi H. Epidemiological and Clinicopathological Features of Anaplasma phagocytophilum Infection in Dogs: A Systematic Review. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:686644. [PMID: 34250067 PMCID: PMC8260688 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.686644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum is a worldwide emerging zoonotic tick-borne pathogen transmitted by Ixodid ticks and naturally maintained in complex and incompletely assessed enzootic cycles. Several studies have demonstrated an extensive genetic variability with variable host tropisms and pathogenicity. However, the relationship between genetic diversity and modified pathogenicity is not yet understood. Because of their proximity to humans, dogs are potential sentinels for the transmission of vector-borne pathogens. Furthermore, the strong molecular similarity between human and canine isolates of A. phagocytophilum in Europe and the USA and the positive association in the distribution of human and canine cases in the USA emphasizes the epidemiological role of dogs. Anaplasma phagocytophilum infects and survives within neutrophils by disregulating neutrophil functions and evading specific immune responses. Moreover, the complex interaction between the bacterium and the infected host immune system contribute to induce inflammatory injuries. Canine granulocytic anaplasmosis is an acute febrile illness characterized by lethargy, inappetence, weight loss and musculoskeletal pain. Hematological and biochemistry profile modifications associated with this disease are unspecific and include thrombocytopenia, anemia, morulae within neutrophils and increased liver enzymes activity. Coinfections with other tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) may occur, especially with Borrelia burgdorferi, complicating the clinical presentation, diagnosis and response to treatment. Although clinical studies have been published in dogs, it remains unclear if several clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities can be related to this infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah El Hamiani Khatat
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Reproduction, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Sylvie Daminet
- Department of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Duchateau
- Department of Comparative Physiology and Biometrics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Latifa Elhachimi
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Public Health, Unit of Parasitology, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Malika Kachani
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Hamid Sahibi
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Public Health, Unit of Parasitology, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
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14
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Kennedy MA, Thompson RE, McRee Bakker A, Fung C, Dawson J, Parry R, Foggin C, Odoi A. Detection and analysis of tick-borne infections in communal dogs of northwest Zimbabwe. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2021; 92:e1-e4. [PMID: 33970003 PMCID: PMC8111609 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v92i0.2096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) may serve as a reservoir or a sentinel for infectious disease pathogens that can affect human and wildlife health. To understand the role of tick-borne diseases in rural and lesser developed regions, we investigated the prevalence of several tick-borne pathogens in communal dogs of Zimbabwe. Blood samples from 225 dogs in northwest Zimbabwe were assessed by serology for Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi, and 241 samples were assessed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Ehrlichia. There was a high seroprevalence (73%) of E. canis-specific antibodies in domestic dogs in northwest Zimbabwe, but follow up analyses via PCR and genetic sequencing indicated only 7.5% of the canines were actively infected with the organism. Whilst indicating that an organism serologically related to E. canis is likely present in the region, this data also shows that the organism is currently present in a relative minority of the domestic dogs in the region. Its presence as evidenced by both serologic and PCR analysis is significant because of the ‘one health’ paradigm, where humans and wildlife may be affected by the exposure to this pathogen in domestic dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A Kennedy
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America.
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15
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Chatanga E, Kainga H, Razemba T, Ssuna R, Swennen L, Hayashida K, Sugimoto C, Katakura K, Nonaka N, Nakao R. Molecular detection and characterization of tick-borne hemoparasites and Anaplasmataceae in dogs in major cities of Malawi. Parasitol Res 2020; 120:267-276. [PMID: 33225402 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06967-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in dogs have attracted much attention over the last decade since some are now known to be zoonotic and pose a threat to both animal and human health sectors. Despite the increase in the number of studies on canine TBPs worldwide, only a few studies have been conducted in resource-limited countries where research priority is given to food animals than companion animals. In the present study, the occurrence of TBPs of the genera Babesia, Hepatozoon, Anaplasma, and Ehrlichia was investigated in 209 owned and stray dogs in three major cities in Malawi through molecular techniques. Among the examined dogs, 93 (44.5%) were infected with at least one TBP. The detection rates were 23.1% for Babesia rossi, 2.9% for B. vogeli, 19.1% for Hepatozoon canis, 2.4% for Anaplasma platys, and 3.8% for Ehrlichia canis. This is the first molecular study that has provided evidence that dogs in Malawi are infected with TBPs. Sensitization is required for veterinary practitioners, dog handlers, and pet owners as the detected pathogens affect the animals' wellbeing. Further studies focusing on rural areas with limited or no access to veterinary care are required to ascertain the extent of the TBP infection in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisha Chatanga
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-18 Nishi-9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, P.O. Box 219, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Henson Kainga
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, P.O. Box 219, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Tinotenda Razemba
- Lilongwe Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (LSPCA), Private Bag 30383, Kanengo, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Richard Ssuna
- All Creatures Animal Welfare League, 18 Acacia Road, P.O. Box 30962, Capital City, Lilongwe 3, Malawi
| | - Lieza Swennen
- Lilongwe Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (LSPCA), Private Bag 30383, Kanengo, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Kyoko Hayashida
- Division of Collaboration and Education, Research Centre for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Kita-20 Nishi-10, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 001-0020, Japan
| | - Chihiro Sugimoto
- Division of Collaboration and Education, Research Centre for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Kita-20 Nishi-10, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 001-0020, Japan
| | - Ken Katakura
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-18 Nishi-9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Nariaki Nonaka
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-18 Nishi-9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Ryo Nakao
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Graduate School of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-18 Nishi-9, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan.
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16
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Kolo AO, Collins NE, Brayton KA, Chaisi M, Blumberg L, Frean J, Gall CA, M. Wentzel J, Wills-Berriman S, Boni LD, Weyer J, Rossouw J, Oosthuizen MC. Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Other Anaplasma spp. in Various Hosts in the Mnisi Community, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Microorganisms 2020; 8:E1812. [PMID: 33217891 PMCID: PMC7698776 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA samples from 74 patients with non-malarial acute febrile illness (AFI), 282 rodents, 100 cattle, 56 dogs and 160 Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks were screened for the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA using a quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay targeting the msp2 gene. The test detected both A. phagocytophilum and Anaplasma sp. SA/ZAM dog DNA. Microbiome sequencing confirmed the presence of low levels of A. phagocytophilum DNA in the blood of rodents, dogs and cattle, while high levels of A. platys and Anaplasma sp. SA/ZAM dog were detected in dogs. Directed sequencing of the 16S rRNA and gltA genes in selected samples revealed the presence of A. phagocytophilum DNA in humans, dogs and rodents and highlighted its importance as a possible contributing cause of AFI in South Africa. A number of recently described Anaplasma species and A. platys were also detected in the study. Phylogenetic analyses grouped Anaplasma sp. SA/ZAM dog into a distinct clade, with sufficient divergence from other Anaplasma species to warrant classification as a separate species. Until appropriate type-material can be deposited and the species is formally described, we will refer to this novel organism as Anaplasma sp. SA dog.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agatha O. Kolo
- Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (N.E.C.); (K.A.B.); (S.W.-B.); (L.D.B.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Nicola E. Collins
- Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (N.E.C.); (K.A.B.); (S.W.-B.); (L.D.B.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Kelly A. Brayton
- Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (N.E.C.); (K.A.B.); (S.W.-B.); (L.D.B.); (M.C.O.)
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Mamohale Chaisi
- Zoological Research, Foundational Biodiversity & Services, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Lucille Blumberg
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg 2192, South Africa; (L.B.); (J.F.); (J.W.); (J.R.)
| | - John Frean
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg 2192, South Africa; (L.B.); (J.F.); (J.W.); (J.R.)
| | | | - Jeanette M. Wentzel
- Hans Hoheisen Wildlife Research Station, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0110, South Africa;
| | - Samantha Wills-Berriman
- Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (N.E.C.); (K.A.B.); (S.W.-B.); (L.D.B.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Liesl De Boni
- Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (N.E.C.); (K.A.B.); (S.W.-B.); (L.D.B.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Jacqueline Weyer
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg 2192, South Africa; (L.B.); (J.F.); (J.W.); (J.R.)
- Department of Medical Virology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Rossouw
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg 2192, South Africa; (L.B.); (J.F.); (J.W.); (J.R.)
| | - Marinda C. Oosthuizen
- Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (N.E.C.); (K.A.B.); (S.W.-B.); (L.D.B.); (M.C.O.)
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17
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Viljoen S, O'Riain MJ, Penzhorn BL, Drouilly M, Serieys LEK, Cristescu B, Teichman KJ, Bishop JM. Molecular detection of tick-borne pathogens in caracals (Caracal caracal) living in human-modified landscapes of South Africa. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:220. [PMID: 32354342 PMCID: PMC7191760 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04075-5] [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] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Wild carnivores living alongside humans and domestic animals are vulnerable to changes in the infectious disease dynamics in their populations. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence and diversity of selected tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) of veterinary and/or zoonotic concern in wild populations of caracals (Caracal caracal) occurring in human-modified landscapes in South Africa. Using molecular techniques, we screened 57 caracal blood samples for infection by rickettsial bacteria and piroplasms in three regions of South Africa: rangeland in the Central Karoo (n = 27) and Namaqualand (n = 14) as well as the urban edge of the Cape Peninsula (n = 16) of South Africa. To characterise pathogen identity, we sequenced the 18S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes from positive samples and analysed sequences within a phylogenetic framework. We also examine the diversity of potential tick vectors. Results All individuals tested were infected with at least one tick-borne pathogen. Pathogens included Hepatozoon felis, Babesia felis, Babesia leo and a potentially novel Babesia species. An Anaplasma species previously described in South African domestic dogs was also found in 88% of urban edge caracals. Higher rates of co-infection characterised urban edge caracals (81% vs 15% and 0% in the two rangeland populations), as well as a greater incidence of mixed infections. Host attached tick species include Haemaphysalis elliptica, an important pathogen vector among carnivore hosts. Conclusions This study confirms the occurrence of previously undocumented tick-borne pathogens infecting free-ranging caracals in human-modified landscapes. We identify clear differences in the pathogen profiles among our study populations and discuss the likely health costs to caracals living adjacent to urban areas.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Storme Viljoen
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - M Justin O'Riain
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Barend L Penzhorn
- Vectors & Vector-borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Marine Drouilly
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Laurel E K Serieys
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,The Cape Leopard Trust, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bogdan Cristescu
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,The Cape Leopard Trust, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kristine J Teichman
- The Cape Leopard Trust, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Biology, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, Canada
| | - Jacqueline M Bishop
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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18
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Guo WP, Zhang B, Wang YH, Xu G, Wang X, Ni X, Zhou EM. Molecular identification and characterization of Anaplasma capra and Anaplasma platys-like in Rhipicephalus microplus in Ankang, Northwest China. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:434. [PMID: 31101084 PMCID: PMC6525361 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4075-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Four species within Anaplasma genus are emerging zoonotic pathogens, which are transmitted by ticks and generate veterinary and public health concerns. Here, we performed a molecular survey of Anaplasma in Ankang, Northwest China. Methods Hard ticks were collected and identified using morphological and molecular methods. Human-pathogenic Anaplasma species were tested using nested polymerase chain reaction. The nearly complete rrs, gltA, and groEL genes sequences from revealed Anaplasma species were amplified and sequenced to determine their molecular characteristics and their phylogeny. Results All ticks collected in Ankang belonged to the Rhipicephalus microplus. Novel unclassified Anaplasma strains genetically related to A. platys and A. capra were detected in these ticks. Co-infection of these two organisms was also found. The novel unclassified Anaplasma strains identified in this study formed a distinct phylogenetic lineage based on the groEL gene and two lineages based on the gltA gene within A. platys and related strains group. The revealed A. capra strains identified in this study were most closely related to those detected in humans and other vertebrate animals. Conclusion We revealed the presence of A. capra, a novel human pathogens in R. microplus ticks in previously unrecognized endemic regions. We also detected a novel unclassified Anaplasma species genetically related to A. platys. The epidemiology of anaplasmosis caused by these two Anaplasma species in humans should be assessed in future studies. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-019-4075-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ping Guo
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China. .,Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Bing Zhang
- Department of Human parasitology, Preclinical Medicine College, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yi-Han Wang
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.,Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Gang Xu
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.,Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoquan Wang
- Xuwang Town Comprehensive Agricultural Service Station, Hanzhong, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xuebing Ni
- State Key laboratory of Emerging infectious disease, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - En-Min Zhou
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xinong Road 22, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.,Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
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19
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Halajian A, Palomar AM, Portillo A, Heyne H, Romero L, Oteo JA. Detection of zoonotic agents and a new Rickettsia strain in ticks from donkeys from South Africa: Implications for travel medicine. Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 26:43-50. [PMID: 30312734 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In rural South Africa, people are in close contact with tick-infested donkeys. This study aimed to investigate the presence of spotted fever group Rickettsia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia and Coxiella species in these arthropods. METHOD 376 ticks (7 species) from donkeys from Limpopo Province (South Africa) were pooled and analyzed using PCR assays for the bacterium detection. RESULTS Rickettsia africae was amplified in 6 Amblyomma hebraeum, 1 Rhipicephalus appendiculatus and 5 Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi pools. Rickettsia aeschlimannii was found in 1 Hyalomma rufipes, 1 Rh. appendiculatus and 2 Rh. e. evertsi pools. Three Rhipicephalus simus specimens were infected with a new Rickettsia strain that showed low identity with any validated Rickettsia species. Ehrlichia canis was detected in 2 Rh. e. evertsi pools and in one of them Anaplasma bovis was amplified. An Am. hebraeum pool showed infection with Anaplasma ovis and another with Coxiella burnetii. CONCLUSION South African donkeys are involved in the epidemiology of tick-borne pathogens and other associated agents such as C. burnetii with Health importance. A potential new Rickettsia species, with unknown pathogenic potential, has been detected in the anthropophilic Rh. simus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Halajian
- Department of Biodiversity (Zoology), University of Limpopo, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa.
| | - Ana M Palomar
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain.
| | - Aránzazu Portillo
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain.
| | - Heloise Heyne
- Epidemiology, Parasites & Vectors (EPV), ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research (ARC-OVR), South Africa.
| | - Lourdes Romero
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain.
| | - José A Oteo
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain.
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20
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Tick-borne haemoparasites and Anaplasmataceae in domestic dogs in Zambia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 9:988-995. [PMID: 29622515 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs), including emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, are important threats to human and animal health worldwide. Indeed, the number of reported human and animal infectious cases of novel TBD agents has increased in recent decades. However, TBDs tend to be neglected, especially in resource-limited countries that often have limited diagnostic capacity. The aim of this molecular survey was to detect and characterise tick-borne pathogens (Babesia, Theileria, and Hepatozoon parasites and Anaplasmataceae bacteria) in domestic dogs in Zambia. In total, 247 canine peripheral blood samples were collected in Lusaka, Mazabuka, Monze, and Shangombo. Conventional PCR to detect the selected pathogens was performed using DNA extracted from canine blood. One hundred eleven samples were positive for protozoa and 5 were positive for Anaplasmataceae. Sequencing of thirty-five randomly selected protozoa-positive samples revealed the presence of Babesia rossi, Babesia vogeli, and Hepatozoon canis 18S rDNA. Based on these sequences, a multiplex PCR system was developed to yield PCR products with different amplicons, the size of which depended on the parasite species; thus, each species could be identified without the need for sequence analysis. Approximately 40% of dogs were positive for H. canis. In particular, the positive rate (75.2%) of H. canis infection was significantly higher in Shangombo than in other sampling sites. Multiplex PCR assay detected B. rossi and B. vogeli infections in five and seven dogs, respectively, indicating that this approach is useful for detecting parasites with low prevalence. Sequencing analysis of gltA and groEL genes of Anaplasmataceae revealed that two and one dogs in Lusaka were infected with Anaplasma platys and Ehrlichia canis, respectively. The data indicated that Zambian dogs were infected with multiple tick-borne pathogens such as H. canis, B. rossi, B. vogeli, A. platys, E. canis and uncharacterized Ehrlichia sp. Since some of these parasites are zoonotic, concerted efforts are needed to raise awareness of, and control, these tick-borne pathogens.
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21
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Penzhorn BL, Netherlands EC, Cook CA, Smit NJ, Vorster I, Harrison-White RF, Oosthuizen MC. Occurrence of Hepatozoon canis (Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae) and Anaplasma spp. (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) in black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) in South Africa. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:158. [PMID: 29554933 PMCID: PMC5859442 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2714-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Domestic dogs are not native to sub-Saharan Africa, which may account for their susceptibility to Babesia rossi, of which endemic black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) are natural reservoirs. There is virtually no information on the occurrence of potentially pathogenic haemogregarines (e.g. Hepatozoon canis) or even rickettsial bacteria (e.g. Ehrlichia spp. and Anaplasma spp.) in indigenous canids in sub-Saharan Africa. Such organisms could pose a risk to domestic dogs, as well as to populations of endangered indigenous canid species. Results Genomic DNA extracted from blood samples taken from 126 free-ranging and 16 captive black-backed jackals was subjected to reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization assay; 82 (57.8%) specimens reacted only with the Ehrlichia/Anaplasma genera-specific probe. Full-length bacterial 16S rRNA gene of five of these specimens was cloned and the recombinants sequenced. The ten 16S rDNA sequences obtained were most closely related, with approximately 99% identity, to Anaplasma sp. South African Dog, various uncultured Anaplasma spp., as well as various Anaplasma phagocytophilum genotypes. Ninety-one specimens were screened for haemogregarines through PCR amplification using the 18S rRNA gene; 20 (21.9%) specimens reacted positively, of which 14 (15.4%) were confirmed positive for Hepatozoon genotypes from within H. canis. Two (2.2%) specimens were found positive for two different Hepatozoon genotypes. Conclusions Sequence analyses confirmed the presence of 16S rDNA sequences closely related to A. phagocytophilum and Anaplasma sp. South African Dog as well as two H. canis genotypes in both free-ranging and captive black-backed jackals. Distinguishing between closely related lineages may provide insight into differences in pathogenicity and virulence of various Anaplasma and H. canis genotypes. By building up a more comprehensive understanding of the range and diversity of the bacteria and eukaryotic organisms (piroplasms and haemogregarines) in the blood of indigenous canids, we may gain insight to such infections in these often-endangered species and the potential for horizontal transmission to and from domestic dogs via ticks where favourable conditions exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barend L Penzhorn
- Vectors and Vector-borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa. .,National Zoological Gardens, Boom Street, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Edward C Netherlands
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.,African Amphibian Conservation Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.,Laboratory of Aquatic Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, University of Leuven, Charles Debériotstraat 32, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Courtney A Cook
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.,Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State, Qwaqwa, South Africa
| | - Nico J Smit
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Ilse Vorster
- Vectors and Vector-borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | | | - Marinda C Oosthuizen
- Vectors and Vector-borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
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22
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Vlahakis PA, Chitanga S, Simuunza MC, Simulundu E, Qiu Y, Changula K, Chambaro HM, Kajihara M, Nakao R, Takada A, Mweene AS. Molecular detection and characterization of zoonotic Anaplasma species in domestic dogs in Lusaka, Zambia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 9:39-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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23
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Ehounoud C, Fenollar F, Dahmani M, N’Guessan J, Raoult D, Mediannikov O. Bacterial arthropod-borne diseases in West Africa. Acta Trop 2017; 171:124-137. [PMID: 28365316 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Arthropods such as ticks, lice, fleas and mites are excellent vectors for many pathogenic agents including bacteria, protozoa and viruses to animals. Moreover, many of these pathogens can also be accidentally transmitted to humans throughout the world. Bacterial vector-borne diseases seem to be numerous and very important in human pathology, however, they are often ignored and are not well known. Yet they are in a phase of geographic expansion and play an important role in the etiology of febrile episodes in regions of Africa. Since the introduction of molecular techniques, the presence of these pathogens has been confirmed in various samples from arthropods and animals, and more rarely from human samples in West Africa. In this review, the aim is to summarize the latest information about vector-borne bacteria, focusing on West Africa from 2000 until today in order to better understand the epidemiological risks associated with these arthropods. This will allow health and veterinary authorities to develop a strategy for surveillance of arthropods and bacterial disease in order to protect people and animals.
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24
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Mtshali K, Nakao R, Sugimoto C, Thekisoe O. Occurrence of <i>Coxiella burnetii</i>, <i>Ehrlichia canis</i>, <i>Rickettsia</i> species and <i>Anaplasma phagocytophilum</i>-like bacterium in ticks collected from dogs and cats in South Africa. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2017; 88:e1-e6. [PMID: 28582983 PMCID: PMC6138182 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v88i0.1390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are major vectors of arthropod-borne infections and transmit a wide variety of zoonotic pathogens. This study was conducted mainly to determine the occurrence of canine tick-borne bacterial and rickettsial pathogens especially those with zoonotic potential. We examined 276 Rhipicephalus sanguineus, 38 Haemaphysalis elliptica and 4 Amblyomma hebraeum ticks from 90 dogs and 4 cats from the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, North West and Mpumalanga provinces. DNA of Coxiella burnetii (41%), Ehrlichia or Anaplasma (18%), Rickettsia spp. (37%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum-like bacterium (18%) and Ehrlichia canis (19%) was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from a total of 147 pooled DNA samples. All samples were negative for the presence of Borrelia burgdorferi DNA. Ehrlichia canis was detected in samples from all the provinces except the North West; A. phagocytophilum was absent in KwaZulu-Natal samples, whereas Rickettsia species and C. burnetii were detected in all sampled provinces. The PCR-positive samples were confirmed by direct sequencing of the product. Data from this study calls for a joint effort by both veterinary and medical sectors to conduct epidemiological studies of the zoonotic pathogens in both animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Oriel Thekisoe
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State; Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University.
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25
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Molecular detection of Anaplasma spp. in pangolins (Manis javanica) and wild boars (Sus scrofa) in Peninsular Malaysia. Vet Parasitol 2016; 227:73-6. [PMID: 27523941 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2016] [Revised: 03/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Anaplasma spp. infects a wide variety of wildlife and domestic animals. This study describes the identification of a novel species of Anaplasma (Candidatus Anaplasma pangolinii) from pangolins (Manis javanica) and Anaplasma bovis from wild boars (Sus scrofa) in Malaysia. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, Candidatus Anaplasma pangolinii is identified in a distinct branch within the family Anaplasmataceae, exhibiting the closest sequence similarity with the type strains of Anaplasma bovis (97.7%) and Anaplasma phagocytophilum (97.6%). The sequence also aligned closely (99.9%) with that of an Anaplasma spp. (strain AnAj360) detected from Amblyomma javanense ticks. The nearly full length sequence of the 16S rRNA gene derived from two wild boars in this study demonstrated the highest sequence similarity (99.7%) to the A. bovis type strain. Partial 16S rRNA gene fragments of A. bovis were also detected from a small population of Haemaphysalis bispinosa cattle ticks in this study. Our finding suggests a possible spread of two Anaplasma species in the Malaysian wildlife and ticks. The zoonotic potential of the Anaplasma species identified in this study is yet to be determined.
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26
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Ge Y, Yin H, Rikihisa Y, Pan W, Yin H. Molecular Detection of Tick-BorneRickettsialesin Goats and Sheep from Southeastern China. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2016; 16:309-16. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ge
- Department of Immunology and Pathogen Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongmei Yin
- Department of Immunology and Pathogen Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yasuko Rikihisa
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Weiqing Pan
- Department of Immunology and Pathogen Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Yin
- The State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Gansu, China
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27
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Kolo AO, Sibeko-Matjila KP, Maina AN, Richards AL, Knobel DL, Matjila PT. Molecular Detection of Zoonotic Rickettsiae and Anaplasma spp. in Domestic Dogs and Their Ectoparasites in Bushbuckridge, South Africa. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2016; 16:245-52. [PMID: 26974185 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the order Rickettsiales are small, obligate intracellular bacteria that are vector-borne and can cause mild to fatal diseases in humans worldwide. There is little information on the zoonotic rickettsial pathogens that may be harbored by dogs from rural localities in South Africa. To characterize rickettsial pathogens infecting dogs, we screened 141 blood samples, 103 ticks, and 43 fleas collected from domestic dogs in Bushbuckridge Municipality, Mpumalanga Province of South Africa, between October 2011 and May 2012 using the reverse line blot (RLB) and Rickettsia genus and species-specific quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assays. Results from RLB showed that 49% of blood samples and 30% of tick pools were positive for the genus-specific probes for Ehrlichia/Anaplasma; 16% of the blood samples were positive for Ehrlichia canis. Hemoparasite DNA could not be detected in 36% of blood samples and 30% of tick pools screened. Seven (70%) tick pools and both flea pools were positive for Rickettsia spp; three (30%) tick pools were positive for Rickettsia africae; and both flea pools (100%) were positive for Rickettsia felis. Sequencing confirmed infection with R. africae and Candidatus Rickettsia asemboensis; an R. felis-like organism from one of the R. felis-positive flea pools. Anaplasma sp. South Africa dog strain (closely related to Anaplasma phagocytophilum), A. phagocytophilum, and an Orientia tsutsugamushi-like sequence were identified from blood samples. The detection of emerging zoonotic agents from domestic dogs and their ectoparasites in a rural community in South Africa highlights the potential risk of human infection that may occur with these pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agatha O Kolo
- 1 Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria , Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Alice N Maina
- 2 Department of Viral and Rickettsial Disease, Naval Medical Research Center , Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Allen L Richards
- 2 Department of Viral and Rickettsial Disease, Naval Medical Research Center , Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Darryn L Knobel
- 3 Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine , Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Paul T Matjila
- 1 Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria , Pretoria, South Africa
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28
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Moustafa MAM, Lee K, Taylor K, Nakao R, Sashika M, Shimozuru M, Tsubota T. Molecular characterization and specific detection of Anaplasma species (AP-sd) in sika deer and its first detection in wild brown bears and rodents in Hokkaido, Japan. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2015; 36:268-274. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2015.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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29
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Noden BH, Soni M. Vector-borne diseases of small companion animals in Namibia: Literature review, knowledge gaps and opportunity for a One Health approach. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2015; 86:1307. [PMID: 26824340 PMCID: PMC6138184 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v86i1.1307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Namibia has a rich history in veterinary health but little is known about the vector-borne diseases that affect companion dogs and cats. The aim of this review is to summarise the existing published and available unpublished literature, put it into a wider geographical context, and explore some significant knowledge gaps. To date, only two filarial pathogens (Dirofilaria repens and Acanthocheilonema dracunculoides) and three tick-borne pathogens (Babesia canis vogeli, Hepatozoon canis and Ehrlichia canis) have been reported. Most studies have focused solely on dogs and cats in the urban Windhoek and surrounding areas, with almost nothing reported in rural farming areas, in either the populous northern regions or the low-income urban areas where animal owners have limited access to veterinary services. With the development of several biomedical training programmes in the country, there is now an excellent opportunity to address zoonotic vector-borne diseases through a One Health approach so as to assess the risks to small companion animals as well as diseases of public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce H Noden
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University.
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30
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Mtshali K, Khumalo Z, Nakao R, Grab DJ, Sugimoto C, Thekisoe O. Molecular detection of zoonotic tick-borne pathogens from ticks collected from ruminants in four South African provinces. J Vet Med Sci 2015; 77:1573-9. [PMID: 26227797 PMCID: PMC4710712 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.15-0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks carry and transmit a remarkable array of pathogens including bacteria, protozoa and
viruses, which may be of veterinary and/or of medical significance. With little to no
information regarding the presence of tick-borne zoonotic pathogens or their known vectors
in southern Africa, the aim of our study was to screen for Anaplasma
phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi, Coxiella
burnetii, Rickettsia species and Ehrlichia
ruminantium in ticks collected and identified from ruminants in the Eastern
Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga Provinces of South Africa. The most
abundant tick species identified in this study were Rhipicephalus evertsi
evertsi (40%), Rhipicephalus species (35%), Amblyomma
hebraeum (10%) and Rhipicephalus decoloratus (14%). A total of
1634 ticks were collected. DNA was extracted, and samples were subjected to PCR
amplification and sequencing. The overall infection rates of ticks with the target
pathogens in the four Provinces were as follows: A. phagocytophilum, 7%;
C. burnetii, 7%; E. ruminantium, 28%; and
Rickettsia spp., 27%. The presence of B. burgdorferi
could not be confirmed. The findings of this study show that zoonotic pathogens are
present in ticks in the studied South African provinces. This information will aid in the
epidemiology of tick-borne zoonotic diseases in the country as well as in raising
awareness about such diseases in the veterinary, medical and tourism sectors, as they may
be the most affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khethiwe Mtshali
- Veterinary Technology Program, Biomedical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Arcadia, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
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31
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Matei IA, Kalmár Z, Magdaş C, Magdaş V, Toriay H, Dumitrache MO, Ionică AM, D'Amico G, Sándor AD, Mărcuţan DI, Domşa C, Gherman CM, Mihalca AD. Anaplasma phagocytophilum in questing Ixodes ricinus ticks from Romania. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2015; 6:408-13. [PMID: 25838178 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2015.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Revised: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Granulocytic anaplasmosis is a common vector-borne disease of humans and animals with natural transmission cycle that involves tick vectors, among which Ixodes ricinus is the most important. The present paper reports the prevalence and geographical distribution of A. phagocytophilum in 10,438 questing Ixodes ricinus ticks collected at 113 locations from 40 counties of Romania. The unfed ticks were examined for the presence of A. phagocytophilum by PCR targeting a portion of ankA gene. The overall prevalence of infection was 3.42%, with local prevalences ranging between 0.29% and 22.45%, with an average prevalence of 5.39% in the infected localities. The infection with A. phagocytophilum was detected in 72 out of 113 localities and in 34 out of 40 counties. The highest prevalence was recorded in females followed by males and nymphs. The results and the distribution model have shown a large distribution of A. phagocytophilum, covering Romania's entire territory. This study is the first large scale survey of the presence of A. phagocytophilum in questing I. ricinus ticks from Romania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Adriana Matei
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania.
| | - Zsuzsa Kalmár
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Cristian Magdaş
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Virginia Magdaş
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Hortenzia Toriay
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Mirabela Oana Dumitrache
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Angela Monica Ionică
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Gianluca D'Amico
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Attila D Sándor
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Daniel Ioan Mărcuţan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Cristian Domşa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Călin Mircea Gherman
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Cluj Napoca, Cluj, Romania
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Kelly P, Marabini L, Dutlow K, Zhang J, Loftis A, Wang C. Molecular detection of tick-borne pathogens in captive wild felids, Zimbabwe. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:514. [PMID: 25404084 PMCID: PMC4243927 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-014-0514-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The populations of wild felids in Africa, of especially lions (Panthera leo) and cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus), are declining and the species are classified as vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. As infections with tick-borne pathogens (TBP) can become more of a problem in wild felids, there are relatively few studies on TBP in wild felids in Africa and on how these infections might influence population numbers. Methods To gain further knowledge on TBP in captive wild felids in Southern Africa, we collected whole blood from captive lions, Southern African wildcats, cheetahs and servals in Zimbabwe for PCRs against the 18S rRNA gene of the piroplasmids (Babesia, Theileria, Cytauxzoon) and Hepatozoon spp., and the 16S rRNA gene of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma spp. Results Overall, 78% of the lions (67/86) and all the Southern African wildcats (6/6), cheetahs (4/4) and servals (2/2) had evidence of infection with at least one organism. The organisms most commonly detected in the lions were B. leo (59%; 51/86), B. vogeli (12%; 10/86) and H. felis (11%; 9/86) while all the Southern African wildcats and servals were positive for B. vogeli and all the cheetahs were positive for B. leo. Mixed infections were found in 22% (15/67) of the PCR positive lions, most commonly B. leo and H. felis (27%; 4/15), and in 1 (50%) of the servals (B. vogeli and A. phagocytophilum). Two lions were infected with three TBP, mainly B. leo, H. canis and T. parva, and B. leo, A. phagocytophilum and T. sinensis. Mixed infections with B. vogeli and A. phagocytophilum were seen in a serval and a Southern African wildcat. Other TBP were detected at a low prevalence (≤2%) in lions, mainly H. canis, T. sinensis, T. parva, C. manul, E. canis, and E. canis-like and B. odocoilei-like organisms. Conclusions Infections with tick-borne agents are common in captive wild felids in Zimbabwe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Kelly
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis.
| | | | | | - Jilei Zhang
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China.
| | - Amanda Loftis
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA.
| | - Chengming Wang
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China.
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Chitanga S, Gaff H, Mukaratirwa S. Tick-borne pathogens of potential zoonotic importance in the southern African Region. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2014; 85:1084. [PMID: 25685942 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v85i1.1084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this communication is to provide preliminary information on the tick-borne pathogens of potential zoonotic importance present in southern Africa, mainly focusing on their geographical distribution and host range, and to identify research gaps. The following tick-borne zoonoses have been reported to occur in southern Africa based mainly on case reports: Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever caused by Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus; ehrlichiosis caused by Ehrlichia ruminantium, Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum; babesiosis caused by Babesia microti; relapsing fever caused by Borrelia duttonii and rickettsioses caused by Rickettsia africae, Rickettsia aeschlimannii and Rickettsia conorii. The epidemiological factors influencing their occurrence are briefly reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simbarashe Chitanga
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Zambia.
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Berggoetz M, Schmid M, Ston D, Wyss V, Chevillon C, Pretorius AM, Gern L. Tick-borne pathogens in the blood of wild and domestic ungulates in South Africa: interplay of game and livestock. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2014; 5:166-75. [PMID: 24418761 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2013.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 10/09/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We screened for tick-borne pathogens blood samples from 181 wild and domestic ungulates belonging to 18 host species in 4 South African Provinces. Polymerase chain reaction followed by reverse line blotting and sequencing allowed detecting 16 tick-borne pathogen species belonging to the genera Babesia, Theileria, Anaplasma, and Ehrlichia. Ten pathogen species were involved in 29 new host-pathogen combinations. Most infections (77.9%) involved more than one pathogen species. Principal component analysis (PCA) assigned the 163 infections, identified to species level, to 4 groups. Three groups were associated with sheep, cattle, and horse and their respective wild counterparts. Each group was characterised by high homogeneity in pathogen assemblage and host phylogenetic status. These groups characterised the most privileged transmission routes between and among wild and domestic ungulates. The 4th group showed high heterogeneity in pathogen assemblage and host phylogenetic status. This group seems to indicate frequent spill over events in impala of pathogens that usually circulate among cattle- or sheep-related species. Within 6 localities, we sampled an equal number of wild and domestic animals (n=128). On this dataset once having controlled for the significant variation among localities, the infection prevalence and intensity of infection did not differ significantly between wild and domestic hosts. This suggests that both animal types, domestic and wild hosts, could act as evenly efficient sources of infection for themselves and for each other. Overall, this study shed new light on the pathogen circulation naturally achieved at the interplay between wild and domestic ungulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Berggoetz
- Institut de Biologie, Laboratoire d'Eco-Epidémiologie des Parasites, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| | - M Schmid
- Institut de Biologie, Laboratoire d'Eco-Epidémiologie des Parasites, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| | - D Ston
- Institut de Biologie, Laboratoire d'Eco-Epidémiologie des Parasites, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| | - V Wyss
- Institut de Biologie, Laboratoire d'Eco-Epidémiologie des Parasites, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| | - C Chevillon
- Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution, Contrôle (MIVEGEC; UMR 5290 CNRS-IRD-Universités Montpellier I et II), 911 Avenue Agropolis BP 64 501, 34 394 Montpellier Cedex 5, France.
| | - A-M Pretorius
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Central University of Technology, Free State Province, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa.
| | - L Gern
- Institut de Biologie, Laboratoire d'Eco-Epidémiologie des Parasites, University of Neuchâtel, Emile Argand 11, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
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Djiba ML, Mediannikov O, Mbengue M, Thiongane Y, Molez JF, Seck MT, Fenollar F, Raoult D, Ndiaye M. Survey of Anaplasmataceae bacteria in sheep from Senegal. Trop Anim Health Prod 2013; 45:1557-61. [PMID: 23553260 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-013-0399-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The authors studied the role of bacteria belonging to Anaplasmataceae family as the causes of acute illnesses of sheep in West Africa. METHODS We examined and sampled 120 febrile sheep in two regions of Senegal for this study. The DNA extracted from these blood samples was tested by PCR using two pairs of primers (groEL-based and 16S rRNA gene-based). RESULTS In 52/120 samples, the microscopic examination revealed intraerythrocytic and/or intraphagocytic spherical inclusions. In 48/52 cases, we succeeded in identifying the bacterial agent: in 38 cases, it was Anaplasma ovis; in six cases, it was Ehrlichia ruminantium; in two cases, Anaplasma phagocytophilum; in one case, Anaplasma platys; and in one case, a yet uncultured Anaplasma sp. closely related to A. phagocytophilum. CONCLUSIONS Our studies demonstrated the great variety of pathogenic bacteria from the Anaplasmataceae family in the blood of clinically ill sheep. A. ovis was identified unexpectedly often. For the first time, A. phagocytophilum was found in sub-Saharan Africa, and its further epidemiology may be now reconsidered. The roles of canine pathogen, A. platys, and yet undescribed Anaplasma sp. "Badiouré" in ovine pathology should be more closely studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamadou Lamine Djiba
- Department of Microbiology, National Laboratory for Research on Animal Diseases, Hann, Dakar, BP2057, Senegal
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Abstract
Ehrlichiosis is the multiorgan infectious disease caused by small, intracellular rickettsias from the genus Ehrlichia. These microorganisms are known as an etiologic factor of infections world wide in humans and in different species of animals. Dog ehrlichiosis can be caused by several species of Ehrlichia attacking different groups of blood cells, but most often an infection by Ehrlichia canis is diagnosed with special relation to monocytes. A vector for E. canis are Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Ixodes ricinus, commonly occurring in Poland. Disease caused by E. canis is known as Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (CME). The disease most often has an asymptomatic course which can, in favourable circumstances, run into acute or chronic forms. The acute form of CME proceeds usually with fever, apathy, weakness and accompanying respiratory symptoms, lameness and disturbances in blood coagulation. In laboratory examinations thrombocytopenia, anemia and leucopenia are ascertained. The chronic form of CME proceeds among gentle, unspecific symptoms which may last even 5 years. The CME diagnosis is difficult and often demands parallel different diagnostic methods. A medicines of choice in the ehrlichiosis treatment are antibiotics from the group of tetracyclines, given at least for 28 days. They are largely efficient during treatment of the acute CME, causing the quick improvement. Instead, in the case of chronic form, answer for treatment can be weak, and cases of resistance to antibiotics ave known.
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Nowak M, Cieniuch S, Stańczak J, Siuda K. Detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Amblyomma flavomaculatum ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) collected from lizard Varanus exanthematicus imported to Poland. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2010; 51:363-371. [PMID: 20084536 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-009-9332-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2009] [Accepted: 12/15/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Adults and nymphs of Amblyomma exornatum, A. flavomaculatum, A. latum, Amblyomma spp. and Hyalomma aegyptium, were collected from savannah monitors, royal python (Africa, Ghana) and marginated tortoises (Europe, Greece) imported to Poland, in 2004-2007. Altogether 345 ticks were examined by polymerase chain reaction for rickettsial agents. None of the tested ticks was positive for the gltA gene of Rickettsia spp. DNA of 16S rRNA gene from Anaplasma phagocytophilum was amplified and sequenced from two adult A. flavomaculatum ticks attached to two different specimens Varanus exanthematicus from Ghana. Both PCR amplicons obtained (GQ305134) had 100% sequence homology with A. phagocytophilum sequences deposited in GenBank. This results suggests for the first time that A. flavomaculatum may be vector of this pathogen in Africa. It could be expected that ticks distributed on their hosts may introduce pathogens not yet known to Polish or even European fauna. This study contributes to the overall recognition of the scarcely explored fauna of the exotic ticks transferred to Poland on reptiles from remote destinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Nowak
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, Institute of Biology, Pedagogical University of Cracow, Kraków, Poland.
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Carrade D, Foley J, Borjesson D, Sykes J. Canine Granulocytic Anaplasmosis: A Review. J Vet Intern Med 2009; 23:1129-41. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2009.0384.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
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Molecular detection of tick-borne protozoal and ehrlichial infections in domestic dogs in South Africa. Vet Parasitol 2008; 155:152-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2008.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2008] [Revised: 04/14/2008] [Accepted: 04/16/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Ooshiro M, Zakimi S, Matsukawa Y, Katagiri Y, Inokuma H. Detection of Anaplasma bovis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum from cattle on Yonaguni Island, Okinawa, Japan. Vet Parasitol 2008; 154:360-4. [PMID: 18468796 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2008.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2008] [Revised: 03/11/2008] [Accepted: 03/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
DNA fragments of Anaplasma bovis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum were detected in cattle on Yonaguni Island, Okinawa, Japan. Although the pathogenesis and epidemiology of these pathogens have not yet been clarified, this is the first detection of their presence in cattle from Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamoru Ooshiro
- Okinawa Prefectural Institute of Animal Health, Naha, Okinawa 900-0024, Japan
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Strik NI, Alleman AR, Barbet AF, Sorenson HL, Wamsley HL, Gaschen FP, Luckschander N, Wong S, Chu F, Foley JE, Bjoersdorff A, Stuen S, Knowles DP. Characterization of Anaplasma phagocytophilum major surface protein 5 and the extent of its cross-reactivity with A. marginale. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2007; 14:262-8. [PMID: 17215333 PMCID: PMC1828860 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00320-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Major surface protein 5 (Msp5) of Anaplasma marginale is highly conserved in the genus Anaplasma and the antigen used in a commercially available competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) for serologic identification of cattle with anaplasmosis. This study analyzes the degrees of conservation of Msp5 among various isolates of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and the extent of serologic cross-reactivity between recombinant Msp5 (rMsp5) of Anaplasma marginale and A. phagocytophilum. The msp5 genes from various isolates of A. phagocytophilum were sequenced and compared. rMsp5 proteins of A. phagocytophilum and A. marginale were used separately in an indirect ELISA to detect cross-reactivity in serum samples from humans and dogs infected with A. phagocytophilum and cattle infected with A. marginale. Serum samples were also tested with a commercially available competitive ELISA that uses monoclonal antibody ANAF16C1. There were 100% sequence identities in the msp5 genes among all of the A. phagocytophilum isolates from the United States and a horse isolate from Sweden. Sheep isolates from Norway and dog isolates from Sweden were 99% identical to one another but differed in 17 base pairs from the United States isolates and the horse isolate. Serologic cross-reactivity was identified when serum samples from cattle infected with A. marginale were reacted with rMsp5 of A. phagocytophilum and when serum samples from humans and dogs infected with A. phagocytophilum were reacted with rMsp5 of A. marginale in an indirect-ELISA format. Serum samples from dogs or humans infected with A. phagocytophilum did not cross-react with rMsp5 of A. marginale when tested with the commercially available cELISA. These results suggest that rMsp5 of A. phagocytophilum is highly conserved among United States and European isolates and that serologic distinction between A. phagocytophilum and A. marginale infections cannot be accomplished if rMsp5 from either organism is used in an indirect ELISA.
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Affiliation(s)
- N I Strik
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 S.W. 16th Ave., Box 100103, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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Kawahara M, Rikihisa Y, Lin Q, Isogai E, Tahara K, Itagaki A, Hiramitsu Y, Tajima T. Novel genetic variants of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma bovis, Anaplasma centrale, and a novel Ehrlichia sp. in wild deer and ticks on two major islands in Japan. Appl Environ Microbiol 2006; 72:1102-9. [PMID: 16461655 PMCID: PMC1392898 DOI: 10.1128/aem.72.2.1102-1109.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild deer are one of the important natural reservoir hosts of several species of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma that cause human ehrlichiosis or anaplasmosis in the United States and Europe. The primary aim of the present study was to determine whether and what species of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma naturally infect deer in Japan. Blood samples obtained from wild deer on two major Japanese islands, Hokkaido and Honshu, were tested for the presence of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma by PCR assays and sequencing of the 16S rRNA genes, major outer membrane protein p44 genes, and groESL. DNA representing four species and two genera of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma was identified in 33 of 126 wild deer (26%). DNA sequence analysis revealed novel strains of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, a novel Ehrlichia sp., Anaplasma centrale, and Anaplasma bovis in the blood samples from deer. None of these have been found previously in deer. The new Ehrlichia sp., A. bovis, and A. centrale were also detected in Hemaphysalis longicornis ticks from Honshu Island. These results suggest that enzootic cycles of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma species distinct from those found in the United States or Europe have been established in wild deer and ticks in Japan.
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Loftis AD, Reeves WK, Szumlas DE, Abbassy MM, Helmy IM, Moriarity JR, Dasch GA. Rickettsial agents in Egyptian ticks collected from domestic animals. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2006; 40:67-81. [PMID: 17004028 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-006-9025-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2006] [Accepted: 08/06/2006] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
To assess the presence of rickettsial pathogens in ticks from Egypt, we collected ticks from domestic and peridomestic animals between June 2002 and July 2003. DNA extracts from 1019 ticks were tested, using PCR and sequencing, for Anaplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Coxiella burnetii, Ehrlichia spp., and Rickettsia spp. Ticks included: 29 Argas persicus, 10 Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum, 55 Hyalomma anatolicum excavatum, 174 Hyalomma dromedarii, 2 Hyalomma impeltatum, 3 Hyalomma marginatum rufipes, 55 unidentified nymphal Hyalomma, 625 Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus, 49 Rhipicephalus sanguineus, and 17 Rhipicephalus turanicus. Ticks were collected predominantly (>80%) from buffalo, cattle, and camels, with smaller numbers from chicken and rabbit sheds, sheep, foxes, a domestic dog, a hedgehog, and a black rat. We detected Anaplasma marginale, Coxiella burnetii, Rickettsia aeschlimannii, and four novel genotypes similar to: "Anaplasma platys," Ehrlichia canis, Ehrlichia spp. reported from Asian ticks, and a Rickettsiales endosymbiont of Ixodes ricinus.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Animals, Domestic/parasitology
- Base Sequence
- DNA, Bacterial/chemistry
- DNA, Bacterial/genetics
- Egypt
- Female
- Male
- Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary
- Polymorphism, Restriction Fragment Length
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/chemistry
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/chemistry
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
- Rickettsia/genetics
- Rickettsia/isolation & purification
- Rural Population
- Tick-Borne Diseases/microbiology
- Ticks/microbiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda D Loftis
- Viral and Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
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Reeves WK, Dowling APG, Dasch GA. Rickettsial agents from parasitic dermanyssoidea (Acari: Mesostigmata). EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2006; 38:181-8. [PMID: 16596351 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-006-0007-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2005] [Accepted: 02/01/2006] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Mites are often overlooked as vectors of pathogens, but have been shown to harbor and transmit rickettsial agents such as Rickettsia akari and Orientia tsutsugamushi. We screened DNA extracts from 27 mites representing 25 species of dermanyssoids for rickettsial agents such as Anaplasma, Bartonella, Rickettsia, and Wolbachia by PCR amplification and sequencing. DNA from Anaplasma spp., a novel Bartonella sp., Spiroplasma sp., Wolbachia sp., and an unclassified Rickettsiales were detected in mites. These could represent mite-borne bacterial agents, bacterial DNA from blood meals, or novel endosymbionts of mites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Will K Reeves
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd. NE, MS G-13, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
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