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Essa IM, Azzal GY, Thamer NK. First molecular sequencing of Babesia gibsoni in ticks, Iraq. Open Vet J 2024; 14:2029-2039. [PMID: 39308724 PMCID: PMC11415923 DOI: 10.5455/ovj.2024.v14.i8.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Tick is one of the most important ectoparasites distributed worldwide and plays an obvious role in the transmission of different infections to humans and animals as dogs. Aim This study conducted to molecular demonstration of Babesia gibsoni in ticks of stray dogs and phylogenetic analysis of study isolates to detect their identity to global isolates. Prevalence of ticks in dogs, identification of tick species, and their relationship to some risk factors were aimed, also. Methods A total of 97 stray dogs were inspected grossly to detect and collect ticks that existed in different body parts. After collection, all ticks were examined morphologically to identify their species, and then molecularly by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay to detect B. gibsoni in different species of ticks. Local B. gibsoni isolates were sequenced, documented in the National Center For biotechnology information (NCBI) database, analyzed phylogenetically, and compared with the global GenBank-NCBI isolates. Results In the current study, ticks were detected in 43.3% of dogs, and were shown to be varied in number and distribution among different body parts of each dog. Concerning its distribution, ticks were observed significantly on the abdomen, ear, and perineal region. In relation to risk factors, ticks were increased significantly in dogs <6 months old in comparison to older dogs, males more than females; and in rural areas more than dogs of sub-urban and urban areas. Based on morphology, different tick species were seen including Hylaomma anatolicum (86.12%), R. sanguineus (11.99%), and Rhipicephalus turanicus (1.89%). Targeting the 18S rRNA gene, PCR assay reported 3.79% positive ticks to B. gibsoni that were seen in R. sanguineus (13.16%) and H. anatolicum (2.56%). Based on phylogenetic analysis data of five local B. gibsoni isolates, this study demonstrated their close relations to the global NCBI-BLAST B. gibsoni Iraqi isolate (ID: MN385424.1). Conclusion This represents the first Iraqi study that demonstrated molecularly B. gibsoni in different species of ticks that infected stray dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israa M. Essa
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Basrah, Basra, Iraq
| | - Ghazi Y. Azzal
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Basrah, Basra, Iraq
| | - Nadia K. Thamer
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Basrah, Basra, Iraq
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Omeragić J, Kapo N, Goletić Š, Softić A, Terzić I, Šabić E, Škapur V, Klarić Soldo D, Goletić T. Investigation of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Ixodes Ticks from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2190. [PMID: 39123716 PMCID: PMC11311058 DOI: 10.3390/ani14152190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Limited information is available regarding the presence of tick-borne pathogens and their distribution within Ixodes species in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This study aimed to identify Rickettsia spp., Babesia spp., Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) in Ixodes ticks collected from domestic and wild animals and vegetation in different regions across Bosnia and Herzegovina. A total of 7438 adult ticks, including 4526 Ixodes ricinus, Ixodes canisuga, and Ixodes hexagonus, were collected. Real-time PCR screening of 450 pooled I. ricinus samples revealed a 22.1% infection rate with at least one pathogen. Rickettsia spp. (6.3%) were found in ticks from dogs, cats, and goats, Babesia spp. (3.1%) in ticks from dogs and cattle, A. phagocytophilum (8.8%) in ticks from dogs, goats, and cattle, and B. burgdorferi s.l. (3.4%) in ticks from dogs and cats. Mixed infections with B. burgdorferi s.l. and A. phagocytophilum, as well as B. burgdorferi s.l. and Rickettsia spp., were found in two pools of I. ricinus from dogs and cats, respectively. Additionally, co-infection with Rickettsia spp. and A. phagocytophilum was confirmed in three tick pools from dogs and goats. Each tick from these pooled samples was individually retested to confirm the presence of pathogens. In the examined pooled samples of I. canisuga (1) and I. hexagonus (6), none of the tested pathogens were detected. Our findings represent the first detection of Rickettsia spp., Babesia spp., A. phagocytophilum, and B. burgdorferi s.l. in I. ricinus collected from domestic animals and vegetation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Considering the established infection rates, the detection of tick-borne pathogens in adult ticks collected from domestic animals and vegetation enriches the current knowledge of the presence of tick-borne pathogens at the local, regional, national, and broader levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Omeragić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (A.S.); (I.T.); (E.Š.); (D.K.S.); (T.G.)
| | - Naida Kapo
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (A.S.); (I.T.); (E.Š.); (D.K.S.); (T.G.)
| | - Šejla Goletić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (A.S.); (I.T.); (E.Š.); (D.K.S.); (T.G.)
| | - Adis Softić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (A.S.); (I.T.); (E.Š.); (D.K.S.); (T.G.)
| | - Ilma Terzić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (A.S.); (I.T.); (E.Š.); (D.K.S.); (T.G.)
| | - Emina Šabić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (A.S.); (I.T.); (E.Š.); (D.K.S.); (T.G.)
| | - Vedad Škapur
- Faculty of Agriculture and Food Science, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Darinka Klarić Soldo
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (A.S.); (I.T.); (E.Š.); (D.K.S.); (T.G.)
| | - Teufik Goletić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (A.S.); (I.T.); (E.Š.); (D.K.S.); (T.G.)
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O'Neill DG, Komutrattananon R, Church DB, Hartley AN, Brodbelt DC. The epidemiology of tick infestation in dog breeds in the UK. J Small Anim Pract 2024; 65:569-581. [PMID: 38653546 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to report the prevalence and risk factors for tick infestation in dogs in the UK based on anonymised electronic patient records. MATERIALS AND METHODS Clinical records of dogs under veterinary care in 2016 at clinics participating in the VetCompass Programme were followed over a 5-year period to identify cases of tick infestation. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression modelling. RESULTS The study included 905,553 dogs. From a random sample, 1903 tick infestation cases were identified. The estimated 5-year (2014 to 2018) period prevalence was 2.03% (95% confidence interval: 2.00 to 2.06). Sixteen breeds showed increased odds compared with non-designer-crossbreed dogs. Breeds with the highest odds included Cairn terrier (odds ratio 2.86, 95% confidence interval 1.64 to 4.98), standard poodle (odds ratio 2.80, 95% confidence interval 1.25 to 6.29) and Goldendoodle (odds ratio 2.63, 95% confidence interval 1.17 to 5.91). Six breeds showed reduced odds, with lowest odds shown by Staffordshire bull terrier (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.25 to 0.50), Rottweiler (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.15 to 0.85) and Chihuahua (odds ratio 0.38, 95% confidence interval 0.26 to 0.55). Males had 1.24 (95% confidence interval 1.13 to 1.36) times the odds of females. Compared with non-designer-crossbred dogs, designer-crossbreed dogs had increased odds (odds ratio 1.81, 95% confidence interval 1.52 to 2.15). Compared with breeds with short coats, breeds with medium length coats (odds ratio 2.20, 95% confidence interval 1.96 to 2.48) showed increased odds. Breeds with V-shaped drop and pendulous ear carriage had higher odds compared with breeds with erect ear carriage. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE These findings provide an evidence base for veterinary professionals to raise awareness of tick infestation as a preventable disorder in dogs in the UK and to support more effective prevention and therapeutic protocols based on targeted approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - R Komutrattananon
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - A N Hartley
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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Middleton J, Cooper I, Rott AS. Tick hazard in the South Downs National Park (UK): species, distribution, key locations for future interventions, site density, habitats. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17483. [PMID: 38881864 PMCID: PMC11179636 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background South Downs National Park (SDNP) is UK's most visited National Park, and a focus of tick-borne Lyme disease. The first presumed UK autochthonous cases of tick-borne encephalitis and babesiosis were recorded in 2019-20. SDNP aims to conserve wildlife and encourage recreation, so interventions are needed that reduce hazard without negatively affecting ecosystem health. To be successful these require knowledge of site hazards. Methods British Deer Society members submitted ticks removed from deer. Key potential intervention sites were selected and six 50 m2 transects drag-sampled per site (mostly twice yearly for 2 years). Ticks were identified in-lab (sex, life stage, species), hazard measured as tick presence, density of ticks (all life stages, DOT), and density of nymphs (DON). Sites and habitat types were analysed for association with hazard. Distribution was mapped by combining our results with records from five other sources. Results A total of 87 Ixodes ricinus (all but one adults, 82% F) were removed from 14 deer (10 Dama dama; three Capreolus capreolus; one not recorded; tick burden, 1-35) at 12 locations (commonly woodland). Five key potential intervention sites were identified and drag-sampled 2015-16, collecting 623 ticks (238 on-transects): 53.8% nymphs, 42.5% larvae, 3.7% adults (13 M, 10 F). Ticks were present on-transects at all sites: I. ricinus at three (The Mens (TM); Queen Elizabeth Country Park (QECP); Cowdray Estate (CE)), Haemaphysalis punctata at two (Seven Sisters Country Park (SSCP); Ditchling Beacon Nature Reserve (DBNR)). TM had the highest DOT at 30/300 m2 (DON = 30/300 m2), followed by QECP 22/300 m2 (12/300 m2), CE 8/300 m2 (6/300 m2), and SSCP 1/300 m2 (1/300 m2). For I. ricinus, nymphs predominated in spring, larvae in the second half of summer and early autumn. The overall ranking of site hazard held for DON and DOT from both seasonal sampling periods. DBNR was sampled 2016 only (one adult H. punctata collected). Woodland had significantly greater hazard than downland, but ticks were present at all downland sites. I. ricinus has been identified in 33/37 of SDNPs 10 km2 grid squares, Ixodes hexagonus 10/37, H. punctata 7/37, Dermacentor reticulatus 1/37. Conclusions Mapping shows tick hazard broadly distributed across SDNP. I. ricinus was most common, but H. punctata's seeming range expansion is concerning. Recommendations: management of small heavily visited high hazard plots (QECP); post-visit precaution signage (all sites); repellent impregnated clothing for deerstalkers; flock trials to control H. punctata (SSCP, DBNR). Further research at TM may contribute to knowledge on ecological dynamics underlying infection density and predator re-introduction/protection as public health interventions. Ecological research on H. punctata would aid control. SDNP Authority is ideally placed to link and champion policies to reduce hazard, whilst avoiding or reducing conflict between public health and ecosystem health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Middleton
- Ecology and Evolution, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, United Kingdom
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Falmer, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Cooper
- Centre for Precision Health and Translational Medicine; Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Devices, School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Anja S Rott
- Ecology, Conservation and Society Research and Enterprise Group, School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
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Nasirian H. Hard Tick Species Parasitism Levels in Domestic Ruminants with Their Distribution and Role as Vectors: A Detailed Global Meta-analysis and Systematic Review. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1-105. [PMID: 37987883 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00724-8] [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: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This comprehensive global meta-analysis reviews the parasitism levels of tick genera and species, life stages, seasonality, attachment sites, the global mean ranks of tick species parasitism rates and records, and their distribution and role as vectors. METHODS From the 418 papers identified, 390 papers were selected to become part of the study. RESULTS The genera recorded as infesting domestic ruminants were Rhipicephalus (42 species), Haemaphysalis (32 species), Hyalomma (19 species), Amblyomma (18 species), Ixodes (10 species), Dermacentor (8 species), Margaropus and Nosomma (1 species). Globally, domestic ruminants are more infested by adult females and males than by the nymphal and larval stages of the tick species. The global tick species parasitism levels at the attachment sites of domestic ruminants were, in order, tail and anal region, neck and dewlap, scrotum or udder, ear region, thigh and abdomen, and dorsal surface. CONCLUSIONS Among 131 species of eight genera of hard ticks recorded infesting domestic ruminants, 42 species had mean ranks of tick species parasitism rates up to 10%, and 37 species had mean ranks of tick species parasitism up to 10 records. Briefly, the higher the indexes of tick species parasitism rates and records, the more important their role as vectors. In addition, the majority of them are found among tick species-infested humans with nearly high ranks of tick species parasitism rates and records that double their medical, veterinary, and zoonotic importance to be the most common vectors and reservoirs of bacterial, protozoan, and viral pathogenic microorganisms, causing severe infectious diseases, and as a result, can be more dangerous to humans and domestic ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Nasirian
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran.
- Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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Probst J, Springer A, Fingerle V, Strube C. Frequency of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia spp., and coinfections in Ixodes ricinus ticks collected from dogs and cats in Germany. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:87. [PMID: 38395915 PMCID: PMC10893606 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06193-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Changing geographical and seasonal activity patterns of ticks may increase the risk of tick infestation and tick-borne pathogen (TBP) transmission for both humans and animals. METHODS To estimate TBP exposure of dogs and cats, 3000 female I. ricinus from these hosts were investigated for Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia species. RESULTS qPCR inhibition, which was observed for ticks of all engorgement stages but not questing ticks, was eliminated at a template volume of 2 µl. In ticks from dogs, A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. prevalence amounted to 19.0% (285/1500) and 28.5% (427/1500), respectively, while ticks from cats showed significantly higher values of 30.9% (464/1500) and 55.1% (827/1500). Accordingly, the coinfection rate with both A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. was significantly higher in ticks from cats (17.5%, 262/1500) than dogs (6.9%, 104/1500). Borrelia prevalence significantly decreased with increasing engorgement duration in ticks from both host species, whereas A. phagocytophilum prevalence decreased only in ticks from dogs. While A. phagocytophilum copy numbers in positive ticks did not change significantly over the time of engorgement, those of Borrelia decreased initially in dog ticks. In ticks from cats, copy numbers of neither A. phagocytophilum nor Borrelia spp. were affected by engorgement. Borrelia species differentiation was successful in 29.1% (365/1254) of qPCR-positive ticks. The most frequently detected species in ticks from dogs were B. afzelii (39.3% of successfully differentiated infections; 70/178), B. miyamotoi (16.3%; 29/178), and B. valaisiana (15.7%; 28/178), while B. afzelii (40.1%; 91/227), B. spielmanii (21.6%; 49/227), and B. miyamotoi (14.1%; 32/227) occurred most frequently in ticks from cats. CONCLUSIONS The differences in pathogen prevalence and Borrelia species distribution between ticks collected from dogs and cats may result from differences in habitat overlap with TBP reservoir hosts. The declining prevalence of A. phagocytophilum with increasing engorgement duration, without a decrease in copy numbers, could indicate transmission to dogs over the time of attachment. The fact that this was not observed in ticks from cats may indicate less efficient transmission. In conclusion, the high prevalence of A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. in ticks collected from dogs and cats underlines the need for effective acaricide tick control to protect both animals and humans from associated health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Probst
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Volker Fingerle
- National Reference Centre for Borrelia, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Veterinärstraße 2, 85764, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany.
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Borowski S, Viljoen A, D'Hanis L, Mahabir S, Geurden T. Evaluation of the efficacy of Simparica Trio ® in the prevention of the transmission of Babesia canis by infected Dermacentor reticulatus to dogs. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:51. [PMID: 38308372 PMCID: PMC10836058 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06115-2] [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: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesia canis is a clinically relevant vector-borne pathogen in dogs, and its presence is expanding. The efficacy of Simparica Trio® (Zoetis) in the prevention of B. canis transmission was evaluated at the minimum recommended label dose of 1.2 mg/kg sarolaner, 24 µg/kg moxidectin and 5 mg/kg pyrantel per kg bodyweight. METHODS Twenty-four (24) dogs were randomly allocated to either a placebo-treated group or one of two treatment groups with Simparica Trio. Dogs were infested with B. canis-infected Dermacentor reticulatus ticks 21 or 28 days after treatment administration. Blood samples for antibody and DNA detection were collected from each dog prior to tick infestation until 28 days after infestation. A dog was defined as being B. canis positive if it tested positive by both an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and PCR at any time during the study. RESULTS No treatment-related adverse reactions were recorded during the study. All placebo-treated animals displayed clinical signs due to babesiosis and tested positive on both IFA and PCR. None of the Simparica Trio-treated animals displayed any clinical symptoms or tested positive, resulting in a 100% efficacy in the prevention of canine babesiosis (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS A single treatment with Simparica Trio at the minimum recommended label dose of 1.2 mg/kg sarolaner, 24 µg/kg moxidectin and 5 mg/kg pyrantel per kg bodyweight prevents the transmission of B. canis by infected D. reticulatus to dogs for at least 28 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stasia Borowski
- Zoetis Belgium SA, Veterinary Medicine Research & Development, Mercuriusstraat 20, 1930, Zaventem, Belgium.
| | - Alta Viljoen
- Clinvet International, Uitzich Road, Bainsvlei, Bloemfontein, 9338, South Africa
| | - Lina D'Hanis
- Zoetis Belgium SA, Veterinary Medicine Research & Development, Mercuriusstraat 20, 1930, Zaventem, Belgium
| | - Sean Mahabir
- Zoetis, Veterinary Medicine Research & Development, 333 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007, USA
| | - Thomas Geurden
- Zoetis Belgium SA, Veterinary Medicine Research & Development, Mercuriusstraat 20, 1930, Zaventem, Belgium
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Myers S, Clow K, DeWinter S, Sundstrom K, Little S. Multiple species of canine Rhipicephalus complex detected in Canada. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 48:100976. [PMID: 38316502 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100976] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Multiple species of brown dog ticks have been described in the United States and the Caribbean: Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu stricto (s.s.), also referred to as temperate lineage; R. linnaei (=tropical lineage); and R. rutilus (=southeastern Europe lineage) However, Rhipicephalus spp. are rarely recovered from dogs in Canada. To identify canine Rhipicephalus spp. in Canada and determine the influence of travel history on infestation, ticks morphologically identified as brown dog ticks (n = 93) collected from dogs (n = 13) in British Columbia, Ontario, and Québec, Canada were submitted with information regarding each dog's geographic location and travel history. Nucleic acid was extracted from available individual ticks (n = 86) and PCR was used to amplify sequences of a 12S rRNA mitochondrial gene fragment. Sequences were compared to published reference sequences of known species and a phylogenetic tree constructed. Twenty-three ticks (26.7%) consistent with R. linnaei were identified on seven dogs, including dogs from British Columbia and Ontario, with a median infestation intensity of 2 ticks/dog (mean = 3.3 ticks/dog). Sixty-one ticks (70.9%) consistent with R. sanguineus s.s. were found on two dogs from Québec and Ontario (median = 30.5 ticks/dog; mean = 30.5 ticks/dog). One dog from Ontario was infested with R. rutilus (n = 2) (2.3%). Species could not be determined for ticks from three dogs from Ontario and Québec. Most infested dogs (10/13; 76.9%) had a recent (< 1 month) international travel history. These data confirm that multiple species of canine Rhipicephalus are occasionally found in Canada and suggest introduction following travel is likely responsible for these infestations. Further analysis will allow for greater understanding of the range and diversity of canine Rhipicephalus spp. in North America and may reveal risk factors for infestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Myers
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Katie Clow
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sydney DeWinter
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kellee Sundstrom
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Susan Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA.
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Arsevska E, Hengl T, Singleton DA, Noble PJM, Caminade C, Eneanya OA, Jones PH, Medlock JM, Hansford KM, Bonannella C, Radford AD. Risk factors for tick attachment in companion animals in Great Britain: a spatiotemporal analysis covering 2014-2021. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:29. [PMID: 38254168 PMCID: PMC10804489 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06094-4] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ticks are an important driver of veterinary health care, causing irritation and sometimes infection to their hosts. We explored epidemiological and geo-referenced data from > 7 million electronic health records (EHRs) from cats and dogs collected by the Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network (SAVSNET) in Great Britain (GB) between 2014 and 2021 to assess the factors affecting tick attachment in an individual and at a spatiotemporal level. METHODS EHRs in which ticks were mentioned were identified by text mining; domain experts confirmed those with ticks on the animal. Tick presence/absence records were overlaid with a spatiotemporal series of climate, environment, anthropogenic and host distribution factors to produce a spatiotemporal regression matrix. An ensemble machine learning spatiotemporal model was used to fine-tune hyperparameters for Random Forest, Gradient-boosted Trees and Generalized Linear Model regression algorithms, which were then used to produce a final ensemble meta-learner to predict the probability of tick attachment across GB at a monthly interval and averaged long-term through 2014-2021 at a spatial resolution of 1 km. Individual host factors associated with tick attachment were also assessed by conditional logistic regression on a matched case-control dataset. RESULTS In total, 11,741 consultations were identified in which a tick was recorded. The frequency of tick records was low (0.16% EHRs), suggesting an underestimation of risk. That said, increased odds for tick attachment in cats and dogs were associated with younger adult ages, longer coat length, crossbreeds and unclassified breeds. In cats, males and entire animals had significantly increased odds of recorded tick attachment. The key variables controlling the spatiotemporal risk for tick attachment were climatic (precipitation and temperature) and vegetation type (Enhanced Vegetation Index). Suitable areas for tick attachment were predicted across GB, especially in forests and grassland areas, mainly during summer, particularly in June. CONCLUSIONS Our results can inform targeted health messages to owners and veterinary practitioners, identifying those animals, seasons and areas of higher risk for tick attachment and allowing for more tailored prophylaxis to reduce tick burden, inappropriate parasiticide treatment and potentially TBDs in companion animals and humans. Sentinel networks like SAVSNET represent a novel complementary data source to improve our understanding of tick attachment risk for companion animals and as a proxy of risk to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Arsevska
- Unit for Animals, Health, Territories, Risks and Ecosystems (UMR ASTRE), French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), 34980, Montferrier-sur-Lez, France.
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK.
| | - Tomislav Hengl
- OpenGeoHub Foundation, 6708 PW, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - David A Singleton
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK
| | - Peter-John M Noble
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK
| | - Cyril Caminade
- Earth System Physics Department, Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), 34151, Trieste, Italy
| | - Obiora A Eneanya
- Health Programs, The Carter Center, 30307, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Philip H Jones
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK
| | - Jolyon M Medlock
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, UK Health Security Agency, SP4 0JG, Salisbury, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, WC1E 7HT, London, UK
| | - Kayleigh M Hansford
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, UK Health Security Agency, SP4 0JG, Salisbury, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, WC1E 7HT, London, UK
| | - Carmelo Bonannella
- OpenGeoHub Foundation, 6708 PW, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Geo-information Science and Remote Sensing, Wageningen University & Research, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alan D Radford
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK
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10
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Ji H, Wei X, Ma D, Wang X, Liu Q. Predicting the global potential distribution of two major vectors of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever under conditions of global climate change. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011883. [PMID: 38198451 PMCID: PMC10805312 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a tick-borne disease that is highly dangerous but often overlooked by the public. To prevent the spread of the disease, it is important to understand the distribution patterns of its vectors' suitable areas. This study aims to explore the potential global suitability of areas for the vectors of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, including Dermacentor variabilis and Amblyomma cajennense under both historical and future climate scenarios. The study also seeks to investigate the impact of climatic factors on the distribution patterns of these vectors. Data on species distribution were downloaded from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility, Web of Science and PubMed database. The climatic variables were downloaded from WorldClim Global Climate Database. The Maximum Entropy Model was used to evaluate the contribution of monthly precipitation, monthly maximum temperature, monthly minimum temperature, elevation, and nineteen other climatic variables to vector survival, as well as to predict the suitable area for the vectors. We found that D. variabilis is distributed in North America, while A. cajennense is mainly distributed in South America, but all other continents except Antarctica have a suitable distribution. D. variabilis is more likely to survive in temperate regions, and A. cajennense is more likely to survive in tropical zones. D. variabilis is more sensitive to temperature, whereas A. cajennense is sensitive to both temperature and precipitation, and A. cajennense prefers tropical regions with hot and humid characteristics. The high suitable areas of both vectors were almost expanded in the ssp5-8.5 scenario, but not so much in the ssp1-2.6 scenario. Highly suitable areas with vectors survival should be strengthened with additional testing to prevent related diseases from occurring, and other highly suitable areas should be alert for entry and exit monitoring to prevent invasion and colonization of vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoqiang Ji
- Department of Vector Control, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong province, China
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; WHO Collaborating Centre for Vector Surveillance and Management, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohui Wei
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; WHO Collaborating Centre for Vector Surveillance and Management, Beijing, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu province, China
| | - Delong Ma
- Jinan Shizhong District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, Shandong province, China
| | - Xiaoxu Wang
- Department of Vector Control, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong province, China
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; WHO Collaborating Centre for Vector Surveillance and Management, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyong Liu
- Department of Vector Control, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong province, China
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; WHO Collaborating Centre for Vector Surveillance and Management, Beijing, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu province, China
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11
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Omazic A, Han S, Albihn A, Ullman K, Choklikitumnuey P, Perissinotto D, Grandi G. Ixodid tick species found in northern Sweden - Data from a frontier area. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102244. [PMID: 37611507 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102244] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Environmental and climatic changes in northern Europe have shaped a geographical area in which new tick species may become established and introduce new tick-borne pathogens. In recent decades, ticks have expanded their latitudinal and altitudinal range limits in northern Sweden. In this study, ticks were collected in 2018 and 2019 in northern Sweden from different hosts, mainly from dogs, cats and humans. The ticks in 2018 (n = 2141, collected from 65 municipalities in 11 provinces) were identified as Ixodes ricinus (n = 2108, 98.5%), Ixodes persulcatus (n = 18, 0.8%), Ixodes trianguliceps (n = 14, 0.7%) and Hyalomma marginatum (n = 1, 0.05%). The ticks collected in 2019 (n = 519, across a smaller area than in 2018, i.e. Sweden's four northernmost provinces) were identified as I. ricinus (n = 242, 46.6%) and I. persulcatus (n = 277, 53.4%). Among those collected in 2019, the majority of I. ricinus (n = 111, 45.9%) were submitted from the province of Västerbotten, while most I. persulcatus (n = 259, 93.5%) were collected in the province of Norrbotten. This study provides updated figures on the geographical distribution of two Ixodes species in northern Sweden. The results confirmed I. ricinus to be the dominant species and that I. persulcatus has enlarged its distributional area compared with previous reports. Updated knowledge of tick distribution is fundamental for the creation of risk maps and will allow relevant advice to be provided to the general public, suggesting measures to prevent tick bites and consequently tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Omazic
- Department of Chemistry, Environment and Feed Hygiene, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala SE-751 89, Sweden.
| | - Seungeun Han
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala SE-751 89, Sweden
| | - Ann Albihn
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala SE-751 89, Sweden; Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Ullman
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala SE-751 89, Sweden
| | - Phimphanit Choklikitumnuey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Debora Perissinotto
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala SE-751 89, Sweden
| | - Giulio Grandi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala SE-751 89, Sweden
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12
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Noll M, Wall R, Makepeace BL, Newbury H, Adaszek L, Bødker R, Estrada-Peña A, Guillot J, da Fonseca IP, Probst J, Overgaauw P, Strube C, Zakham F, Zanet S, Rose Vineer H. Predicting the distribution of Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor reticulatus in Europe: a comparison of climate niche modelling approaches. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:384. [PMID: 37880680 PMCID: PMC10601327 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05959-y] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ticks Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor reticulatus are two of the most important vectors in Europe. Climate niche modelling has been used in many studies to attempt to explain their distribution and to predict changes under a range of climate change scenarios. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of different climate niche modelling approaches to explain the known distribution of I. ricinus and D. reticulatus in Europe. METHODS A series of climate niche models, using different combinations of input data, were constructed and assessed. Species occurrence records obtained from systematic literature searches and Global Biodiversity Information Facility data were thinned to different degrees to remove sampling spatial bias. Four sources of climate data were used: bioclimatic variables, WorldClim, TerraClimate and MODIS satellite-derived data. Eight different model training extents were examined and three modelling frameworks were used: maximum entropy, generalised additive models and random forest models. The results were validated through internal cross-validation, comparison with an external independent dataset and expert opinion. RESULTS The performance metrics and predictive ability of the different modelling approaches varied significantly within and between each species. Different combinations were better able to define the distribution of each of the two species. However, no single approach was considered fully able to capture the known distribution of the species. When considering the mean of the performance metrics of internal and external validation, 24 models for I. ricinus and 11 models for D. reticulatus of the 96 constructed were considered adequate according to the following criteria: area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve > 0.7; true skill statistic > 0.4; Miller's calibration slope 0.25 above or below 1; Boyce index > 0.9; omission rate < 0.15. CONCLUSIONS This comprehensive analysis suggests that there is no single 'best practice' climate modelling approach to account for the distribution of these tick species. This has important implications for attempts to predict climate-mediated impacts on future tick distribution. It is suggested here that climate variables alone are not sufficient; habitat type, host availability and anthropogenic impacts, not included in current modelling approaches, could contribute to determining tick presence or absence at the local or regional scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Noll
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Richard Wall
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Benjamin L Makepeace
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Lukasz Adaszek
- Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences, Lublin, Poland
| | - René Bødker
- Section of Animal Welfare and Disease Control, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Agustín Estrada-Peña
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Saragossa, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón (IA2), Saragossa, Spain
| | - Jacques Guillot
- Department of Dermatology-Parasitology-Mycology, École Nationale Vétérinaire, Oniris, Nantes, France
| | - Isabel Pereira da Fonseca
- CIISA-Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Julia Probst
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Paul Overgaauw
- Department Population Health Sciences, Division of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Fathiah Zakham
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Stefania Zanet
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Hannah Rose Vineer
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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13
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Petrović A, Stanić K, Popović A, Ivanović I, Supić D, Marinković D, Bursić V. Seasonal Dynamics and Physiological Age of Ixodid Ticks Collected from Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3026. [PMID: 37835632 PMCID: PMC10571853 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193026] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to reproduce and complete life cycles, ticks have to feed on different hosts, thus participating as vectors and reservoirs in the maintenance and circulation of different pathogens. Since dogs can serve as suitable hosts for numerous tick species, the aims of this study were to determine tick species and their seasonal occurrence on pet dogs and to compare the accuracy of three indices frequently used to calculate engorged female physiological age. Ticks were collected from dogs brought to veterinary clinics. Three indices were analyzed: scutal index, alloscutal/scutal index ratio, and physiological age index. Four tick species were identified: Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor marginatus, D. reticulatus, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus group, and the last was the most abundant. The highest number of collected ticks was in April, but two species were continuously active throughout the year. The statistical analyses distinguished the physiological age index as more precise because of lower variability. Dog owners usually ignore regular dog anti-tick treatments throughout the year, as they are not aware that ticks could be active during the winter months. Tick surveillance is unquestionably important in order to monitor and prevent the distribution of these vectors and also the diseases they transmit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Petrović
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 8, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (A.P.); (K.S.); (I.I.); (D.M.); (V.B.)
| | - Ksenija Stanić
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 8, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (A.P.); (K.S.); (I.I.); (D.M.); (V.B.)
- Agro-Vet, Šenoina 16/I, 24000 Subotica, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Popović
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 8, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (A.P.); (K.S.); (I.I.); (D.M.); (V.B.)
| | - Ivana Ivanović
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 8, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (A.P.); (K.S.); (I.I.); (D.M.); (V.B.)
| | - Dejan Supić
- Faculty of Ecological Agriculture, University Educons, Vojvode Putnika 87, 21208 Sremska Kamenica, Serbia;
| | - Dušan Marinković
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 8, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (A.P.); (K.S.); (I.I.); (D.M.); (V.B.)
| | - Vojislava Bursić
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 8, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (A.P.); (K.S.); (I.I.); (D.M.); (V.B.)
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14
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Silvestrini P, Lloyd-Bradley B, Glanemann B, Barker EN, Badham H, Tappin S, Pascual M, Haines A, Mas A, Roura X, Piviani M. Clinical presentation, diagnostic investigations, treatment protocols and outcomes of dogs diagnosed with tick-borne diseases living in the United Kingdom: 76 cases (2005-2019). J Small Anim Pract 2023; 64:392-400. [PMID: 36727469 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To report the presence of tick-borne diseases in dogs living in the United Kingdom. MATERIALS AND METHODS Dogs with a final diagnosis of tick-borne diseases made between January 2005 and August 2019 at seven referral institutions in the United Kingdom were included in the study. RESULTS Seventy-six dogs were included: 25 were diagnosed with ehrlichiosis, 23 with babesiosis, eight with Lyme borreliosis and six with anaplasmosis. Fourteen dogs had co-infections with two or three pathogens. Except for those dogs with anaplasmosis and Lyme borreliosis, most dogs with tick-borne diseases had a history of travel to or from endemic countries. However, three dogs with ehrlichiosis, and one dog each infected with Babesia canis and Babesia vulpes did not have any history of travel. A variety of non-specific clinical signs and laboratory abnormalities were reported. Targeted treatment was successful at achieving clinical remission in 64 (84%) dogs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Even in non-endemic areas, veterinary surgeons should consider tick-borne diseases in dogs with compatible clinical presentation and laboratory findings and especially where there is a history of travel. As autochthonous transmission of tick-borne-pathogens does occur, an absence of travel should not rule out tick-borne diseases. Specific diagnostic testing is required to confirm infection, and this enables prompt targeted treatment and often a positive outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Silvestrini
- Ryan Veterinary Hospital, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - B Lloyd-Bradley
- Small Animal Teaching Hospital, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
- Dick White Referrals, Six Mile Bottom, UK
| | - B Glanemann
- Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, Royal Veterinary College - University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - E N Barker
- Small Animal Hospital, Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Langford, UK
| | - H Badham
- Davies Veterinary Specialists, Hitchin, UK
| | - S Tappin
- Dick White Referrals, Six Mile Bottom, UK
| | - M Pascual
- Dick White Referrals, Six Mile Bottom, UK
| | - A Haines
- Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, UK
| | - A Mas
- Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists, Winchester, UK
| | - X Roura
- Hospital Clinic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - M Piviani
- Ryan Veterinary Hospital, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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15
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Nasirian H. Monitoring of hard tick parasitism in domestic ruminants: A scale evidence for policymakers. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 41:100878. [PMID: 37208083 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100878] [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: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Domestic ruminants such as camels, cattle, goats, and sheep represent a substantial part of the global world economy. Hard ticks are well-known as obligatory bloodsucking ectoparasites of domestic ruminants. Policymakers need to get results that show the global distribution of tick genera and species, their parasitic levels, and their roles as disease vectors in camels, cattle, goats, and sheep. Iran is endemic to a broad range of hard tick-borne diseases. A study that reviews the tick genera and species, life stage, seasonal and attachment site parasitism levels, the global mean ranks of tick species parasitism rates and records, and their distribution in target animals would be of particular importance. Accordingly, this review aims to summarize the above objectives. After evaluating the identified articles, 147 were selected to be part of the survey based on the study objectives. Globally, tick parasitism levels were 28.7, 29.9, 36.0 and 47.6% for goats, cattle, sheep, and camels, respectively. The tick parasitism trends have exhibited an increasing trend for camels and sheep over the years while remaining constant for cattle and goats, indicating that current tick control measures are not being properly followed. Ticks tend to parasitize females more than males because males are more resistant to certain pests than females. The distribution of tick genera and species, their parasitism levels, and their roles as disease vectors provided. This information addresses the needs of decision-makers to make decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Nasirian
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran; Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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16
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Hansford KM, Gandy SL, Gillingham EL, McGinley L, Cull B, Johnston C, Catton M, Medlock JM. Mapping and monitoring tick (Acari, Ixodida) distribution, seasonality, and host associations in the United Kingdom between 2017 and 2020. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 37:152-163. [PMID: 36309852 PMCID: PMC10092223 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne disease risk is intrinsically linked to the distribution of tick vector species. To assess risk and anticipate disease emergence, an understanding of tick distribution, host associations, and seasonality is needed. This can be achieved, to some extent, using passive surveillance supported by engagement with the public, animal health, and public health experts. The Tick Surveillance Scheme (TSS) collects data and maps tick distribution across the United Kingdom (UK). Between 2017 and 2020, 3720 tick records were received and 39 tick species were detected. Most records were acquired in the UK, with a subset associated with recent overseas travel. The dominant UK acquired species was Ixodes ricinus (Ixodida: Ixodidae, Linnaeus), the main vector of Lyme borreliosis. Records peaked during May and June, highlighting a key risk period for tick bites. Other key UK species were detected, including Dermacentor reticulatus (Ixodida: Ixodidae, Fabricius) and Haemaphysalis punctata (Ixodida: Ixodidae, Canestrini & Fanzago) as well as several rarer species that may present novel tick-borne disease risk to humans and other animals. Updated tick distribution maps highlight areas in the UK where tick exposure has occurred. There is evidence of increasing human tick exposure over time, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, but seasonal patterns remain unchanged.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara L. Gandy
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Emma L. Gillingham
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Liz McGinley
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Benjamin Cull
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Colin Johnston
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Matthew Catton
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Jolyon M. Medlock
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
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17
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Probst J, Springer A, Strube C. Year-round tick exposure of dogs and cats in Germany and Austria: results from a tick collection study. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:70. [PMID: 36797779 PMCID: PMC9933410 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05693-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ticks and tick-borne diseases play a major role in companion animal health. Additionally, the European tick fauna is changing, for instance due to the spread of Dermacentor reticulatus, displaying a higher likelihood of winter activity than Ixodes ricinus. Therefore, we investigated current tick infestations in dogs and cats in Germany and in parts of Austria and the seasonal infestation risk. METHODS Overall, 219 veterinary practices were invited to collect ticks from cats and dogs on a monthly basis. Ticks were morphologically identified and female I. ricinus specimens were measured to estimate attachment duration. RESULTS In total, 19,514 ticks, 17,789 (91.2%) from Germany and 1506 (7.7%) from Austria, were received between March 2020 and October 2021, with 10,287 specimens (52.7%) detached from dogs, 8005 from cats (41.0%) and 1222 from other species (6.3%). In Germany, the most common tick species collected from dogs were I. ricinus (78.0%) and D. reticulatus (18.8%), while cats mainly harboured I. ricinus (91.3%) and I. hexagonus (5.5%) and only few D. reticulatus (0.6%). In Austria, collected I. ricinus reached similar proportions in dogs (90.4%) and cats (95.3%), followed by D. reticulatus in both dogs (5.2%) and cats (1.5%), with I. hexagonus (0.9%) collected only marginally from cats. The average infestation intensity amounted to 1.62 ticks/dog and 1.88 ticks/cat. The single to multiple infestation ratio was 79.1% to 20.9% in dogs and 69.0% to 31.0% in cats, with cats being significantly more often multiple infested than dogs, while the proportion of mixed-species infestations was 2.0% for both dogs and cats. The average attachment duration of female I. ricinus specimens amounted to 78.76 h for dogs and 82.73 h for cats. Furthermore, year-round tick exposure was confirmed, with 108 D. reticulatus and 70 I. ricinus received on average per month during December 2020 to February 2021. CONCLUSIONS The study shows a year-round tick infestation risk, with activity of both D. reticulatus and I. ricinus during winter, and confirms the widespread occurrence of D. reticulatus in Germany. Additionally, long average attachment durations and frequent multiple infestations underline the need for adequate year-round tick control, even during the winter months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Probst
- grid.412970.90000 0001 0126 6191Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- grid.412970.90000 0001 0126 6191Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany.
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18
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Bagster A, Elsheikha H. Perception of UK companion animal veterinarians on risk assessment based parasite control. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 34:100774. [PMID: 36041809 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Parasites can pose a risk to companion animals and potentially their owners. Current parasiticide use is possibly impacting the environment, increasing adverse reaction and resistance risk. As such parasiticides should be dispensed by the veterinary team proportional to individual risk, including owners in their approach. A mixed-methods questionnaire was designed and distributed using snowball sampling to ascertain overall awareness, observance, and attitude towards utilising a risk assessment based approach to parasite prophylaxis by UK companion animal veterinarians. 85.7% of veterinarians surveyed reported that they were aware of risk assessment based parasite control whereas only 53.9% said they utilise it always or often. Significant correlations were found between more frequent risk assessment based parasite control utilisation and increased owner involvement (P = 0.0007) and prescription confidence (P = 0.0001). Most attitudes towards adopting risk assessment based parasite control were positive. There was significant association with positive attitude and greater utilisation frequency (P = 0.0010), as well as working in corporate practice (P = 0.0126). Awareness of risk assessment based parasite control has potential to increase responsible utilisation of parasiticides by veterinarians, and therefore mitigate risks associated. Most veterinarians would like to see the profession move towards risk assessment based control use, but institutional changes are required. Further research, and education is also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Bagster
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Hany Elsheikha
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, UK.
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19
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Dobinson R, Wright I. Exotic bloodborne parasites and dogs imported from Africa. Vet Rec 2022; 191:67-69. [PMID: 35866941 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.2052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The number of dogs legally imported to the UK from Africa is on the rise, and so too, therefore, is the risk of co-importing currently exotic parasites. Here, Rebecca Dobinson and Ian Wright report the results of a small study carried out in Sierra Leone, in which visibly healthy dogs were screened for the presence of several bloodborne parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Dobinson
- Compassionate Paws International, Westway Veterinary Group, Houghton Business Centre, Houghton le Spring DH5 8BJ
| | - Ian Wright
- Mount Vets, 1 Harris Street, Fleetwood FY7 6QX
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20
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Johnson N, Phipps LP, Hansford KM, Folly AJ, Fooks AR, Medlock JM, Mansfield KL. One Health Approach to Tick and Tick-Borne Disease Surveillance in the United Kingdom. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19105833. [PMID: 35627370 PMCID: PMC9142090 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Where ticks are found, tick-borne diseases can present a threat to human and animal health. The aetiology of many of these important diseases, including Lyme disease, bovine babesiosis, tick-borne fever and louping ill, have been known for decades whilst others have only recently been documented in the United Kingdom (UK). Further threats such as the importation of exotic ticks through human activity or bird migration, combined with changes to either the habitat or climate could increase the risk of tick-borne disease persistence and transmission. Prevention of tick-borne diseases for the human population and animals (both livestock and companion) is dependent on a thorough understanding of where and when pathogen transmission occurs. This information can only be gained through surveillance that seeks to identify where tick populations are distributed, which pathogens are present within those populations, and the periods of the year when ticks are active. To achieve this, a variety of approaches can be applied to enhance knowledge utilising a diverse range of stakeholders (public health professionals and veterinarians through to citizen scientists). Without this information, the application of mitigation strategies to reduce pathogen transmission and impact is compromised and the ability to monitor the effects of climate change or landscape modification on the risk of tick-borne disease is more challenging. However, as with many public and animal health interventions, there needs to be a cost-benefit assessment on the most appropriate intervention applied. This review will assess the challenges of tick-borne diseases in the UK and argue for a cross-disciplinary approach to their surveillance and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Johnson
- Vector-Borne Diseases, Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (L.P.P.); (A.J.F.); (K.L.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lawrence Paul Phipps
- Vector-Borne Diseases, Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (L.P.P.); (A.J.F.); (K.L.M.)
| | - Kayleigh M. Hansford
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, UK Health Security Agency, Porton Down SP4 0JG, UK; (K.M.H.); (J.M.M.)
| | - Arran J. Folly
- Vector-Borne Diseases, Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (L.P.P.); (A.J.F.); (K.L.M.)
| | - Anthony R. Fooks
- International Development Team, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK;
| | - Jolyon M. Medlock
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, UK Health Security Agency, Porton Down SP4 0JG, UK; (K.M.H.); (J.M.M.)
| | - Karen L. Mansfield
- Vector-Borne Diseases, Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Woodham Lane, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (L.P.P.); (A.J.F.); (K.L.M.)
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21
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Monitoring of ticks and their pathogens from companion animals obtained by the "tekenscanner" application in The Netherlands. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1887-1893. [PMID: 35451704 PMCID: PMC9023694 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07518-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are vectors for many pathogens of veterinary and medical interest. In order to monitor ticks and tick-borne pathogens, the “Tekenscanner” (Dutch for Tick scanner), a citizen science project, was launched in The Netherlands. It is a smartphone application for pet-owners to get ticks from their dog or cat, identified and checked for pathogens for free. At the same time, information about the pet and the geographic location of tick infestation becomes available for research. The application was launched in 2018, and the results of the first 6 months after launch of the app were reported. Ticks were identified based on morphology, and DNA was extracted and amplified by a panel of tick-borne pathogen-specific primers. Next, the amplicons were subjected to reverse line blot with specific probes for important pathogens to determine their presence or absence. The present paper describes the results of 2019 and 2020. There were 2260 ticks collected from 871 dogs and 255 cats (26 ticks were from an unknown host) and all pet owners were informed about the results. Four species of ticks were collected: Ixodes ricinus (90.0%), Ixodes hexagonus (7.3%), Dermacentor reticulatus (2.8%) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (0.1%). Ixodes ricinus was the tick with the most divergent pathogens: Anaplasma sp. (1.3%), Babesia sp. (0.8%), Borrelia spp. (4.8%), Neoehrlichia sp. (3.7%) and Rickettsia helvetica (12.6%). In I. hexagonus, R. helvetica (1.8%) and Babesia sp. (0.6%) were detected and Rickettsia raoultii in D. reticulatus (16.2%). One of the two nymphs of R. sanguineus was co-infected with Borrelia and R. helvetica and the other one was uninfected. The high numbers of different pathogens found in this study suggest that companion animals, by definition synanthropic animals, and their ticks can serve as sentinels for emerging tick-borne pathogens.
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22
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Detailed new insights about tick infestations in domestic ruminant groups: a global systematic review and meta-analysis. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:526-601. [DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01460-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
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Cull B, Hansford KM, McGinley L, Gillingham EL, Vaux AGC, Smith R, Medlock JM. A nationwide study on Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. infection rates in questing Ixodes ricinus: a six-year snapshot study in protected recreational areas in England and Wales. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 35:352-360. [PMID: 33415732 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the variation in Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. infection rates in Ixodes ricinus ticks is important for assessing the potential for Lyme borreliosis transmission. This study aimed to investigate infection rates of B. burgdorferi s.l. bacteria in I. ricinus across 24 field sites in England and Wales, focussing on protected recreational areas in National Parks (NPs) and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), to provide comparable data across multiple years to assess spatio-temporal changes in B. burgdorferi s.l. infection. Working with park rangers, questing ticks were collected each spring from 2014 to 2019. A subset of ticks, 4104 nymphs, were analysed using a pan-Borrelia qPCR assay, as well as a Borrelia miyamotoi-specific qPCR, and sequenced to determine Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. genospecies. Site-specific B. burgdorferi s.l. infection rates in I. ricinus nymphs varied from 0% to 24%, with overall infection rates ranging from 2.5% to 5.1% across the years. Genospecies composition of sequenced samples was 62.5% B. garinii, 20.3% B. valaisiana and 17.2% B. afzelii. Borrelia miyamotoi was detected in 0.2% of ticks. This study increases our knowledge on B. burgdorferi s.l.. infection in areas used by the public for outdoor activity across England and Wales, highlighting the spatial and temporal variability which can impact the changing risk to humans from infected tick bites.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Cull
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
| | - K M Hansford
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
- Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
| | - L McGinley
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
| | - E L Gillingham
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
- Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
| | - A G C Vaux
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
| | - R Smith
- Health Protection Division, Public Health Wales, Cardiff, U.K
| | - J M Medlock
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department Science & Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
- Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
- Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Public Health England, Porton Down, U.K
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24
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Sands BO, Bryer KE, Wall R. Climate and the seasonal abundance of the tick Dermacentor reticulatus. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 35:434-441. [PMID: 33942903 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Dermacentor reticulatus (Ixodida: Ixodidae, Fabricius 1794) is one of the most widely distributed and abundant tick species in central Europe and is a vector for a range of pathogens. Nevertheless, many aspects of its ecology and distribution remain poorly understood. To quantify the seasonal abundance of this species in the U.K. and the environmental factors that determine this, weekly sampling at sites throughout Wales and southern England was undertaken for 12 months. This showed that the activity of adult D. reticulatus peaked February and March and that no individuals were collected between May and mid-October; no questing tick activity was observed when the 5-day average temperature was greater than 15 °C. A single nymph was collected by dragging, confirming speculation over the nidicolous status of larval and nymphal stadia. Laboratory analysis found that D. reticulatus were able survive cold shock and the lower lethal temperature was estimated to be between -18 and -20 °C. Habitat was significantly associated with tick activity, with higher numbers of ticks collected from low lying vegetation in marsh environments than from exposed grassland or woodland. A strong association was observed between activity and saturation deficit suggesting that the seasonal pattern of activity seen in the field, within the sites where it was abundant, is more strongly determined by temperature than humidity. Range expansion within the U.K. should be expected, bringing with it an elevated disease risk for animal and human hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- B O Sands
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - K E Bryer
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - R Wall
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
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Kopsco HL, Duhaime RJ, Mather TN. An analysis of companion animal tick encounters as revealed by photograph-based crowdsourced data. Vet Med Sci 2021; 7:2198-2208. [PMID: 34414695 PMCID: PMC8604111 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Community science is increasingly utilized to track important vectors of companion animal disease, providing a scalable, cost‐effective strategy for identifying new foci, changing phenology, and disease prevalence across wide geographies. Objectives We examined photographs of ticks found attached to predominately dogs and cats reported to a photograph‐based tick surveillance program to identify potential areas for improvements in tick prevention education and risk intervention. Methods We compared estimated days of tick attachment using a Kruskal–Wallis one‐way analysis of variance, and a Pearson's chi‐square analysis of variance on the number of submissions by host type submitted for each season. Results The blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) was the most common species reported (39.8%). Tick photographs submitted were almost entirely adults (89.5%), and ticks found on companion animals exhibited an estimated median engorgement time of 2.5 days. Ixodes scapularis displayed the highest median engorgement of the top tick species found feeding on companion animals (χ2 = 98.96, p < 0.001). Ticks were spotted year‐round; during spring and summer, ticks collected from pets represented 15.4 and 12.8% of all submissions, but increased to 28.5 and 35.2% during autumn and winter, respectively. Conclusions Crowdsourced data reveal that mostly adult ticks are detected on pets, and they are found at a point in the blood‐feeding process that puts pets at heightened risk for disease transmission. The increase in proportion of ticks found on pets during colder months may reveal a critical knowledge gap amongst pet owners regarding seasonal activity of I. scapularis, a vector of Lyme disease, providing an opportunity for prevention‐education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Kopsco
- Center for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island.,TickEncounter Resource Center, Kingston, Rhode Island.,Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Roland J Duhaime
- TickEncounter Resource Center, Kingston, Rhode Island.,Environmental Data Center, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island
| | - Thomas N Mather
- Center for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island.,TickEncounter Resource Center, Kingston, Rhode Island
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26
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Molecular Detection and Phylogeny of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Ticks Collected from Dogs in the Republic of Korea. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10050613. [PMID: 34067827 PMCID: PMC8157029 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are important vectors of various pathogens that result in clinical illnesses in humans and domestic and wild animals. Information regarding tick infestations and pathogens transmitted by ticks is important for the identification and prevention of disease. This study was a large-scale investigation of ticks collected from dogs and their associated environments in the Republic of Korea (ROK). It included detecting six prevalent tick-borne pathogens (Anaplasma spp., A. platys, Borrelia spp., Babesia gibsoni, Ehrlichia canis, and E. chaffeensis). A total of 2293 ticks (1110 pools) were collected. Haemaphysalis longicornis (98.60%) was the most frequently collected tick species, followed by Ixodes nipponensis (0.96%) and H. flava (0.44%). Anaplasma spp. (24/1110 tick pools; 2.16%) and Borrelia spp. (4/1110 tick pools; 0.36%) were detected. The phylogenetic analyses using 16S rRNA genes revealed that the Anaplasma spp. detected in this study were closely associated with A. phagocytophilum reported in humans and rodents in the ROK. Borrelia spp. showed phylogenetic relationships with B. theileri and B. miyamotoi in ticks and humans in Mali and Russia. These results demonstrate the importance of tick-borne disease surveillance and control in dogs in the ROK.
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Cull B. Potential for online crowdsourced biological recording data to complement surveillance for arthropod vectors. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250382. [PMID: 33930066 PMCID: PMC8087023 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Voluntary contributions by citizen scientists can gather large datasets covering wide geographical areas, and are increasingly utilized by researchers for multiple applications, including arthropod vector surveillance. Online platforms such as iNaturalist accumulate crowdsourced biological observations from around the world and these data could also be useful for monitoring vectors. The aim of this study was to explore the availability of observations of important vector taxa on the iNaturalist platform and examine the utility of these data to complement existing vector surveillance activities. Of ten vector taxa investigated, records were most numerous for mosquitoes (Culicidae; 23,018 records, 222 species) and ticks (Ixodida; 16,214 records, 87 species), with most data from 2019–2020. Case studies were performed to assess whether images associated with records were of sufficient quality to identify species and compare iNaturalist observations of vector species to the known situation at the state, national and regional level based on existing published data. Firstly, tick data collected at the national (United Kingdom) or state (Minnesota, USA) level were sufficient to determine seasonal occurrence and distribution patterns of important tick species, and were able to corroborate and complement known trends in tick distribution. Importantly, tick species with expanding distributions (Haemaphysalis punctata in the UK, and Amblyomma americanum in Minnesota) were also detected. Secondly, using iNaturalist data to monitor expanding tick species in Europe (Hyalomma spp.) and the USA (Haemaphysalis longicornis), and invasive Aedes mosquitoes in Europe, showed potential for tracking these species within their known range as well as identifying possible areas of expansion. Despite known limitations associated with crowdsourced data, this study shows that iNaturalist can be a valuable source of information on vector distribution and seasonality that could be used to supplement existing vector surveillance data, especially at a time when many surveillance programs may have been interrupted by COVID-19 restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Cull
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Keyte S, Abdullah S, James K, Newbury H, Helps C, Tasker S, Wall R. Prevalence and distribution of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in ticks collected from dogs in the United Kingdom. Vet Rec 2021; 188:e12. [PMID: 33818768 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anaplasma phagocytophilum is the etiological agent of canine granulocytic anaplasmosis in dogs and causes human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA). Tick-borne anaplasmosis has been recognised as an emerging zoonotic health concern worldwide. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of A. phagocytophilum in ticks collected from dogs in the UK and map its distribution. Routine surveillance of tick-borne disease is essential as part of a "One Health" approach to infectious disease management. METHODS Tick DNA samples collected in 2015 as part of a large-scale tick surveillance programme were analysed using a previously validated diagnostic quantitative PCR for A. phagocytophilum. RESULTS PCR analysis indicated that 138 out of 2994 tick DNA samples analysed were positive for A. phagocytophilum, a prevalence of 4.6% (95% CI: 3.89-5.42). Among these 138 tick DNA samples, 131 were from Ixodes ricinus, six were from Ixodes hexagonus and one was from Ixodes canisuga. Three of the I. ricinus tick DNA samples positive for A. phagocytophilum DNA were also positive for Borrelia spp. DNA and one was positive for Babesia spp. DNA, indicating co-infection. The ticks positive for the pathogen DNA were found widely distributed throughout the UK. CONCLUSIONS These data provide important information on the prevalence and wide distribution of A. phagocytophilum in ticks infesting dogs within the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Keyte
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Swaid Abdullah
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kate James
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Chris Helps
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Séverine Tasker
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Richard Wall
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Eisen L, Eisen RJ. Benefits and Drawbacks of Citizen Science to Complement Traditional Data Gathering Approaches for Medically Important Hard Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) in the United States. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1-9. [PMID: 32772108 PMCID: PMC8056287 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases are increasing in North America. Knowledge of which tick species and associated human pathogens are present locally can inform the public and medical community about the acarological risk for tick bites and tick-borne infections. Citizen science (also called community-based monitoring, volunteer monitoring, or participatory science) is emerging as a potential approach to complement traditional tick record data gathering where all aspects of the work is done by researchers or public health professionals. One key question is how citizen science can best be used to generate high-quality data to fill knowledge gaps that are difficult to address using traditional data gathering approaches. Citizen science is particularly useful to generate information on human-tick encounters and may also contribute to geographical tick records to help define species distributions across large areas. Previous citizen science projects have utilized three distinct tick record data gathering methods including submission of: 1) physical tick specimens for identification by professional entomologists, 2) digital images of ticks for identification by professional entomologists, and 3) data where the tick species and life stage were identified by the citizen scientist. We explore the benefits and drawbacks of citizen science, relative to the traditional scientific approach, to generate data on tick records, with special emphasis on data quality for species identification and tick encounter locations. We recognize the value of citizen science to tick research but caution that the generated information must be interpreted cautiously with data quality limitations firmly in mind to avoid misleading conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Eisen
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3156 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80521
| | - Rebecca J. Eisen
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3156 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80521
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Buczek A, Buczek W. Importation of Ticks on Companion Animals and the Risk of Spread of Tick-Borne Diseases to Non-Endemic Regions in Europe. Animals (Basel) 2020; 11:ani11010006. [PMID: 33375145 PMCID: PMC7822119 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased human mobility elevates the risk of exposure of companion animals travelling with their owners or imported from other regions to tick attacks. In this study, we highlight the potential role of dogs and cats taken for tourist trips or imported animals in the spread of ticks and tick-borne pathogens. The Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick, which is a vector of numerous pathogens causing diseases in animals and humans, is imported most frequently from endemic areas to many European countries. Additionally, alien tick species with high epizootic and epidemiological importance can be imported on dogs from other continents. Companion animals play an even greater role in the spread of autochthonous tick species and transmission of tick pathogens to other animals and humans. Although the veterinary and medical effects of the parasitism of ticks carried by companion animals travelling with owners or imported animals are poorly assessed, these animals seem to play a role in the rapid spread of tick-borne diseases. Development of strategies for protection of the health of companion animals in different geographic regions should take into account the potential emergence of unknown animal tick-borne diseases that can be transmitted by imported ticks.
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Gillingham EL, Cull B, Pietzsch ME, Phipps LP, Medlock JM, Hansford K. The Unexpected Holiday Souvenir: The Public Health Risk to UK Travellers from Ticks Acquired Overseas. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7957. [PMID: 33138220 PMCID: PMC7663673 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17217957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Overseas travel to regions where ticks are found can increase travellers' exposure to ticks and pathogens that may be unfamiliar to medical professionals in their home countries. Previous studies have detailed non-native tick species removed from recently returned travellers, occasionally leading to travel-associated human cases of exotic tick-borne disease. There are 20 species of tick endemic to the UK, yet UK travellers can be exposed to many other non-native species whilst overseas. Here, we report ticks received by Public Health England's Tick Surveillance Scheme from humans with recent travel history between January 2006 and December 2018. Altogether, 16 tick species were received from people who had recently travelled overseas. Confirmed imports (acquired outside of the UK) were received from people who recently travelled to 22 countries. Possible imports (acquired abroad or within the UK) were received from people who had recently travelled to eight European countries. Species-specific literature reviews highlighted nine of the sixteen tick species are known to vector at least one tick-borne pathogen to humans in the country of acquisition, suggesting travellers exposed to ticks may be at risk of being bitten by a species that is a known vector, with implications for novel tick-borne disease transmission to travellers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L. Gillingham
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JG, UK; (B.C.); (M.E.P.); (J.M.M.); (K.H.)
| | - Benjamin Cull
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JG, UK; (B.C.); (M.E.P.); (J.M.M.); (K.H.)
| | - Maaike E. Pietzsch
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JG, UK; (B.C.); (M.E.P.); (J.M.M.); (K.H.)
| | - L. Paul Phipps
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Research Group, Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK;
| | - Jolyon M. Medlock
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JG, UK; (B.C.); (M.E.P.); (J.M.M.); (K.H.)
| | - Kayleigh Hansford
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JG, UK; (B.C.); (M.E.P.); (J.M.M.); (K.H.)
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Ni J, Lin H, Xu X, Ren Q, Aizezi M, Luo J, Luo Y, Ma Z, Chen Z, Tan Y, Guo J, Liu W, Qu Z, Wu Z, Wang J, Li Y, Guan G, Luo J, Yin H, Liu G. Coxiella burnetii is widespread in ticks (Ixodidae) in the Xinjiang areas of China. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:317. [PMID: 32859190 PMCID: PMC7455992 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02538-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The gram-negative Coxiella burnetii bacterium is the pathogen that causes Q fever. The bacterium is transmitted to animals via ticks, and manure, air, dead infected animals, etc. and can cause infection in domestic animals, wild animals, and humans. Xinjiang, the provincial-level administrative region with the largest land area in China, has many endemic tick species. The infection rate of C. burnetii in ticks in Xinjiang border areas has not been studied in detail. Results For the current study, 1507 ticks were collected from livestock at 22 sampling sites in ten border regions of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous region from 2018 to 2019. C. burnetii was detected in 205/348 (58.91%) Dermacentor nuttalli; in 110/146 (75.34%) D. pavlovskyi; in 66/80 (82.50%) D. silvarum; in 15/32 (46.90%) D. niveus; in 28/132 (21.21%) Hyalomma rufipes; in 24/25 (96.00%) H. anatolicum; in 219/312 (70.19%) H. asiaticum; in 252/338 (74.56%) Rhipicephalus sanguineus; and in 54/92 (58.70%) Haemaphysalis punctata. Among these samples, C. burnetii was detected in D. pavlovskyi for the first time. The infection rate of Rhipicephalus was 74.56% (252/338), which was the highest among the four tick genera sampled, whereas the infection rate of H. anatolicum was 96% (24/25), which was the highest among the nine tick species sampled. A sequence analysis indicated that 63 16S rRNA sequences could be found in four newly established genotypes: MT498683.1 (n = 18), MT498684.1 (n = 33), MT498685.1 (n = 6), and MT498686.1 (n = 6). Conclusions This study indicates that MT498684.1 might represent the main C. burnetii genotype in the ticks in Xinjiang because it was detected in eight of the tick species studied. The high infection rate of C. burnetii detected in the ticks found in domestic animals may indicate a high likelihood of Q fever infection in both domestic animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Hanliang Lin
- Animal health supervision institute of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830011, P. R. China
| | - Xiaofeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Qiaoyun Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China.
| | - Malike Aizezi
- Animal health supervision institute of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830011, P. R. China
| | - Jin Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Yi Luo
- Animal health supervision institute of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830011, P. R. China
| | - Zhan Ma
- Animal health supervision institute of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830011, P. R. China
| | - Ze Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Yangchun Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Junhui Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Wenge Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Zhiqiang Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Zegong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Jinming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Youquan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Guiquan Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Jianxun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China
| | - Hong Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China.,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonose, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, PR China
| | - Guangyuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Xujiaping 1, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730046, P. R. China.
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de Waal T, Lawlor A, Zintl A, Cowley B, Bagha A. A Survey of Ticks Infesting Dogs and Cats in Ireland. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1404. [PMID: 32806603 PMCID: PMC7460173 DOI: 10.3390/ani10081404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are important ectoparasites of dogs and cats. Infestations can result in itching and localised dermatitis. In addition, ticks can act as vector of a range of viral, bacterial and protozoal pathogens. This paper reports the results of a nationwide survey of ticks infesting dogs and cats in Ireland. Seventy veterinary practices submitted a total of 120 ticks collected from 56 dogs and 16 cats. Ixodes ricinus was the most abundant species on dogs while Ixodes hexagonus was the most abundant species on cats. The remainder were identified as Ixodes canisuga and a single Rhipicephalus sanguineus specimen. The garden was most frequently associated with tick exposure in both dogs and cats. Sporting dog breeds (n = 17; 31%) were more likely to be infested with ticks than any other breed. Nearly all (n = 56; 95%) veterinarians indicated that ticks are a concern to their clients when they are found on their pets. Pet owners used a variety of products to control ectoparasites on their animals but a significant number (n = 18, 31%) indicated that they felt that the products are less effective highlighting the need for further investigations. Field sampling indicated that ticks are present at a low level in much of the greater Dublin area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theo de Waal
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6 Dublin, Ireland; (A.L.); (A.Z.); (A.B.)
| | - Amanda Lawlor
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6 Dublin, Ireland; (A.L.); (A.Z.); (A.B.)
| | - Annetta Zintl
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6 Dublin, Ireland; (A.L.); (A.Z.); (A.B.)
| | | | - Atiyah Bagha
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6 Dublin, Ireland; (A.L.); (A.Z.); (A.B.)
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Lihou K, Rose Vineer H, Wall R. Distribution and prevalence of ticks and tick-borne disease on sheep and cattle farms in Great Britain. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:406. [PMID: 32778148 PMCID: PMC7419194 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04287-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The most abundant and widespread tick species in Great Britain, Ixodes ricinus, is responsible for the transmission of a range of pathogens that cause disease in livestock. Empirical data on tick distribution and prevalence are required to inform farm management strategies. However, such data are largely unavailable; previous surveys have been rare and are usually relatively localised. METHODS A retrospective questionnaire survey of farmers was used to assess the reported prevalence of ticks on livestock across Great Britain. Spatial scan statistics and kernel density maps were used to assess spatial clustering and identify areas of significantly elevated risk, independent of the underlying distribution of respondents. Logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors for tick presence. RESULTS Tick infection risk to livestock is shown to be spatially aggregated, with areas of significantly elevated risk in north Wales, northwest England and western Scotland. Overall, the prevalence of farms reporting tick presence was 13% for sheep farms and 6% for cattle farms, but in "hot spot" clusters prevalence ranged between 48-100%. The prevalence of farms reporting tick-borne disease overall was 6% for sheep and 2% for cattle, but on farms reporting ticks, prevalence was 44% and 33% for sheep and cattle farms, respectively. Upland farming, larger flock sizes, region and the presence of sheep on cattle farms were all significant risk factors for tick presence. CONCLUSIONS These data have important implications for assessing both the risk of tick-borne disease in livestock and optimising approaches to disease management. In particular, the study highlights the need for effective livestock tick control in upland regions and the southwest, and provides evidence for the importance of sheep as tick maintenance hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Lihou
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK.
| | - Hannah Rose Vineer
- Department of Infection and Microbiome, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Richard Wall
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK
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Tsachev I, Baymakova M, Zlateva N, Kundurzhiev T, Solano-Gallego L. Seroprevalence Rates of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Cats from Southern Bulgaria. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2020; 20:864-867. [PMID: 32584697 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence rates of the feline tick-borne pathogens (FTBPs)-Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in stray cats from Southern Bulgaria. Serum antibodies were used to estimate the prevalence of exposure to FTBPs from blood swabs. Of the 100 cat samples tested with in-clinic assay SNAP 4Dx Plus, the overall FTBP seroprevalence was 3% (3/100); with B. burgdorferi-1% (1/100) and E. canis-2% (2/100). This study provides the first evidence of exposure to B. burgdorferi and E. canis in cats from Bulgaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia Tsachev
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Magdalena Baymakova
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Medical Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nadiya Zlateva
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Forestry, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Todor Kundurzhiev
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Department de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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36
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Jore S, Vanwambeke SO, Slunge D, Boman A, Krogfelt KA, Jepsen MT, Vold L. Spatial tick bite exposure and associated risk factors in Scandinavia. Infect Ecol Epidemiol 2020; 10:1764693. [PMID: 32922687 PMCID: PMC7448850 DOI: 10.1080/20008686.2020.1764693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases are emerging and re-emerging threats causing public health concerns in Europe and North America. Prevention and control requires understanding of human exposure and behaviour. The aim was to measure exposure to tick bites across Scandinavia, its spatial distribution and the associated risk factors. Methods We sent a web-based survey to a randomly chosen population and analysed answers by Principal Component Analysis and Chi-Square. Individual responses were aggregated at the municipality level to assess the spatial distribution of bites. Results Nearly 60% of adults reported bites at low levels (1-5 bites); however, the majority were not in their resident municipality. We found two spatial profiles: In their home municipalities, people were most often bitten in less, but not the least, urbanized areas. When visiting other municipalities, people were most frequently bitten in peri-urban areas. Running/walking in the forest, gardening, and paddling/rowing were activities most strongly associated with bites. Conclusion Tick bites affect the entire Scandinavian population, with a higher risk in Sweden compared to Denmark and Norway. The frequency of observation of ticks in the environment or on pets might be used as a proxy for the actual risk of exposure to tick bites. Our results indicates that urban-dwelling outdoor enthusiasts and inhabitants of rural areas must be equally targeted for prevention campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solveig Jore
- Department of Infection Prevention & Preparedness, Norwegian Public Health Institute, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sophie O Vanwambeke
- Georges Lemaître Centre for Earth and Climate Research, Earth & Life Institute, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Daniel Slunge
- Center for Sustainable Development, GMV, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Boman
- Department of Economics, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Karen A Krogfelt
- Department of Virus and Microbiological Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Dept of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Martin Tugwell Jepsen
- Department of Virus and Microbiological Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Line Vold
- Department of Infection Prevention & Preparedness, Norwegian Public Health Institute, Oslo, Norway
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Wright I. Maintaining routine parasite prevention in lockdown. Vet Rec 2020; 186:607. [PMID: 32527896 PMCID: PMC7365566 DOI: 10.1136/vr.m2222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ian Wright
- Mount Vets1 Harris Street, FleetwoodLancashireFY7 6QX
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38
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Daniel R, Hopkins BAM, Rocchi MS, Wessels M, Floyd T. High mortality in a sheep flock caused by coinfection of louping ill virus and
Anaplasma phagocytophilum. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2019-000980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mara S Rocchi
- Virus Surveillance UnitMoredun Research InstitutePenicuikUK
| | | | - Tobias Floyd
- PathologyAnimal and Plant Health AgencyAddlestoneUK
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39
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Management Options for Ixodes ricinus-Associated Pathogens: A Review of Prevention Strategies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17061830. [PMID: 32178257 PMCID: PMC7143654 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17061830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are important human and animal parasites and vectors of many infectious disease agents. Control of tick activity is an effective tool to reduce the risk of contracting tick-transmitted diseases. The castor bean tick (Ixodes ricinus) is the most common tick species in Europe. It is also a vector of the causative agents of Lyme borreliosis and tick-borne encephalitis, which are two of the most important arthropod-borne diseases in Europe. In recent years, increases in tick activity and incidence of tick-borne diseases have been observed in many European countries. These increases are linked to many ecological and anthropogenic factors such as landscape management, climate change, animal migration, and increased popularity of outdoor activities or changes in land usage. Tick activity is driven by many biotic and abiotic factors, some of which can be effectively managed to decrease risk of tick bites. In the USA, recommendations for landscape management, tick host control, and tick chemical control are well-defined for the applied purpose of reducing tick presence on private property. In Europe, where fewer studies have assessed tick management strategies, the similarity in ecological factors influencing vector presence suggests that approaches that work in USA may also be applicable. In this article we review key factors driving the tick exposure risk in Europe to select those most conducive to management for decreased tick-associated risk.
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Becskei C, Liebenberg J, Thys M, Mahabir SP. Efficacy of a novel chewable tablet containing sarolaner, moxidectin and pyrantel (Simparica Trio™) against four common tick species infesting dogs in Europe. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:100. [PMID: 32113468 PMCID: PMC7049386 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-3949-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tick infestations can cause direct deleterious effects to dogs as a result of tick blood-feeding, and indirectly ticks can transmit disease agents that can be detrimental to the health of both dogs and humans. Six laboratory studies were conducted to support dosage selection and efficacy confirmation of a novel combination of sarolaner, moxidectin and pyrantel against four tick species that commonly infest dogs in Europe. METHODS Two studies were conducted against Dermacentor reticulatus (one of which was a dose determination study), two against Ixodes ricinus, and one each against Ixodes hexagonus and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (sensu lato). In each study, eight purpose-bred Beagle or mix-breed dogs were randomly allocated to each treatment group and infested with 50 unfed adult ticks on Days-2, 5, 12, 19, 26 and 33. On Day 0 dogs were treated orally with placebo or the combination product. In the dose determination study, dogs received sarolaner at point dosages of 0.6 mg/kg, 1.2 mg/kg or 2.4 mg/kg in combination with moxidectin and pyrantel, and in all other studies dogs received Simparica Trio™ to provide minimum dosages of 1.2 mg/kg sarolaner, 24 µg/kg moxidectin and 5 mg/kg pyrantel (as pamoate salt). Efficacy was assessed based on live tick counts conducted 48 hours after treatment and each weekly infestation. RESULTS There were no treatment-related adverse events in any study. In the dose determination study, 1.2 mg/kg sarolaner was the lowest dosage evaluated that provided > 90% efficacy for at least 28 days and therefore was selected as the dosage to provide tick control for at least one month following a single oral treatment. In the dose confirmation studies, a single oral dose of Simparica Trio™ provided ≥ 99.2% efficacy against existing infestations of all tick species, and against re-infestations efficacy was ≥ 97.2% against D. reticulatus for 28 days and against all other species for 35 days. CONCLUSIONS These studies support the sarolaner dose selected and confirm the efficacy of a single oral dose of Simparica Trio™ against existing infestations and re-infestations of the common tick species infesting dogs in Europe for at least one month.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csilla Becskei
- Zoetis, Veterinary Medicine Research and Development, Mercuriusstraat 20, 1930, Zaventem, Belgium.
| | - Julian Liebenberg
- Clinvet International (pty) Ltd, Uitsigweg, Bainsvlei, 9338, Bloemfontein, Republic of South Africa
| | - Mirjan Thys
- Zoetis, Veterinary Medicine Research and Development, Mercuriusstraat 20, 1930, Zaventem, Belgium
| | - Sean P Mahabir
- Zoetis, Veterinary Medicine Research and Development, 333 Portage St., Kalamazoo, MI, 49007, USA
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Zhao L, Lv J, Li F, Li K, He B, Zhang L, Han X, Wang H, Johnson N, Lin X, Wu S, Liu Y. Identification and Molecular Analysis of Ixodid Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) Infesting Domestic Animals and Tick-Borne Pathogens at the Tarim Basin of Southern Xinjiang, China. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 58:37-46. [PMID: 32145725 PMCID: PMC7066438 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2020.58.1.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Livestock husbandry is vital to economy of the Tarim Basin, Xinjiang Autonomous Region, China. However, there have been few surveys of the distribution of ixodid ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and tick-borne pathogens affecting domestic animals at these locations. In this study, 3,916 adult ixodid ticks infesting domestic animals were collected from 23 sampling sites during 2012-2016. Ticks were identified to species based on morphology, and the identification was confirmed based on mitochondrial 16S and 12S rRNA sequences. Ten tick species belonging to 4 genera were identified, including Rhipicephalus turanicus, Hyalomma anatolicum, Rh. bursa, H. asiaticum asiaticum, and Rh. sanguineus. DNA sequences of Rickettsia spp. (spotted fever group) and Anaplasma spp. were detected in these ticks. Phylogenetic analyses revealed possible existence of undescribed Babesia spp. and Borrelia spp. This study illustrates potential threat to domestic animals and humans from tick-borne pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, People's Republic of China
| | - Jizhou Lv
- Institute of Animal Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Li
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar 843300, People's Republic of China
| | - Kairui Li
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar 843300, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo He
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar 843300, People's Republic of China
| | - Luyao Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar 843300, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueqing Han
- Institute of Animal Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiyu Wang
- Institute of Animal Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, People's Republic of China
| | - Nicholas Johnson
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Surrey, KT15 3NB UK
| | - Xiangmei Lin
- Institute of Animal Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoqiang Wu
- Institute of Animal Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonghong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, People's Republic of China
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Liddell C, Morgan ER, Bull K, Ioannou CC. Response to resources and parasites depends on health status in extensively grazed sheep. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20192905. [PMID: 32019442 PMCID: PMC7031671 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.2905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A fundamental question in animal ecology is how an individual's internal state and the external environment together shape species distributions across habitats. The increasing availability of biologgers is driving a revolution in answering this question in a wide range of species. In this study, the position of sheep (Ovis aries) from Global Positioning System collars was integrated with remote sensing data, field sampling of parasite distributions, and parasite load and health measures for each tagged individual. This allowed inter-individual variation in habitat use to be examined. Once controlling for a positive relationship between vegetation productivity and tick abundance, healthier individuals spent more of their time at sites with higher vegetation productivity, while less healthy individuals showed a stronger (negative) response to tick abundance. These trends are likely to represent a trade-off in foraging decisions that vary between individuals based on their health status. Given the rarity of studies that explore how animal distributions are affected by health and external factors, we demonstrate the value of integrating biologging technology with remote sensing data, traditional ecological sampling and individual measures of animal health. Our study, using extensively grazed sheep as a model system, opens new possibilities to study free-living grazing systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Liddell
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
| | - Eric R. Morgan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5BL, UK
| | - Katie Bull
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
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Zanet S, Battisti E, Pepe P, Ciuca L, Colombo L, Trisciuoglio A, Ferroglio E, Cringoli G, Rinaldi L, Maurelli MP. Tick-borne pathogens in Ixodidae ticks collected from privately-owned dogs in Italy: a country-wide molecular survey. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:46. [PMID: 32028946 PMCID: PMC7006417 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-2263-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ticks and tick-borne diseases are increasingly recognized as a cause of disease in dogs worldwide. The epidemiology of ticks and tick-transmitted protozoa and bacteria has changed due to the spread of ticks to urban and peri-urban areas and the movement of infected animals, posing new risks for animals and humans. This countrywide study reports information on distribution and prevalence of pathogens in ticks collected from privately-owned dogs in Italy. We analyzed 2681 Ixodidae ticks, collected from 1454 pet dogs from Italy. Specific PCR protocols were used to detect i) Piroplasms of the genera Babesia and Theileria, ii) Gram-negative cocci of the family Anaplasmataceae and iii) Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. Sequencing of positive amplicons allowed for species identification. Results Babesia/Theileria spp. DNA was detected in 435 homogeneous tick-pools (Minimum Infection Rate (MIR) = 27.6%; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 25.4–29.8%) with higher prevalence in Ixodes ricinus and Rhipicephalus sanguneus group. The zoonotic B. venatorum was the most prevalent species (MIR = 7.5%; 95% CI = 6.3–9.0%). Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species were detected in 165 tick-pools (MIR = 10.5%; 95% CI = 9.3–11.8%) and specifically, A. phagocytophilum was identified with MIR = 5.1% (95% CI = 4.1–6.3%). Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and B. afzelii were detected with MIR = 0.4% (95% CI = 0.2–0.8%) and MIR = 0.3% (95% CI 0.1–0.7%) respectively. Conclusions Zoonotic pathogens B. venatorum and A. phagocytophilum were the most frequently detected in ticks collected from privately-owned dogs which might be used as markers of pathogens presence and distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Zanet
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, largo Braccini 2, 10095, Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Elena Battisti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, largo Braccini 2, 10095, Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Paola Pepe
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Lavinia Ciuca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Liliana Colombo
- MSD Animal Health, Via Fratelli Cervi, 20090, Segrate, MI, Italy
| | - Anna Trisciuoglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, largo Braccini 2, 10095, Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Ezio Ferroglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, largo Braccini 2, 10095, Grugliasco, TO, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Cringoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Maurelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
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Folly AJ, Dorey-Robinson D, Hernández-Triana LM, Phipps LP, Johnson N. Emerging Threats to Animals in the United Kingdom by Arthropod-Borne Diseases. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:20. [PMID: 32118054 PMCID: PMC7010938 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, arthropod-borne disease transmission represents one of the greatest threats to public and animal health. For the British Isles, an island group on the north-western coast of continental Europe consisting of the United Kingdom (UK) and the Republic of Ireland, physical separation offers a barrier to the introduction of many of the pathogens that affect animals on the rest of the continent. Added to this are strict biosecurity rules at ports of entry and the depauperate vector biodiversity found on the islands. Nevertheless, there are some indigenous arthropod-borne pathogens that cause sporadic outbreaks, such as the tick-borne louping ill virus, found almost exclusively in the British Isles, and a range of piroplasmid infections that are poorly characterized. These provide an ongoing source of infection whose emergence can be unpredictable. In addition, the risk remains for future introductions of both exotic vectors and the pathogens they harbor, and can transmit. Current factors that are driving the increases of both disease transmission and the risk of emergence include marked changes to the climate in the British Isles that have increased summer and winter temperatures, and extended the period over which arthropods are active. There have also been dramatic increases in the distribution of mosquito-borne diseases, such as West Nile and Usutu viruses in mainland Europe that are making the introduction of these pathogens through bird migration increasingly feasible. In addition, the establishment of midge-borne bluetongue virus in the near continent has increased the risk of wind-borne introduction of infected midges and the inadvertent importation of infected cattle. Arguably the greatest risk is associated with the continual increase in the movement of people, pets and trade into the UK. This, in particular, is driving the introduction of invasive arthropod species that either bring disease-causing pathogens, or are known competent vectors, that increase the risk of disease transmission if introduced. The following review documents the current pathogen threats to animals transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks and midges. This includes both indigenous and exotic pathogens to the UK. In the case of exotic pathogens, the pathway and risk of introduction are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arran J. Folly
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (Weybridge), Addlestone, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Dorey-Robinson
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (Weybridge), Addlestone, United Kingdom
| | | | - L. Paul Phipps
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (Weybridge), Addlestone, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Johnson
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency (Weybridge), Addlestone, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
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Norman C, Stavisky J, Westgarth C. Importing rescue dogs into the UK: reasons, methods and welfare considerations. Vet Rec 2020; 186:248. [PMID: 31932354 PMCID: PMC7057815 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rescuing dogs from overseas is increasing in popularity but has associated risks. This study is the first to investigate the reasons why people bring rescue dogs into the UK from overseas, the importation process, and potential welfare problems associated with this practice. METHODS An online questionnaire was advertised on social media in 2017 and received 3080 responses. RESULTS Participants primarily chose to adopt from abroad based on a desire for a particular dog they had seen advertised and on concern for its situation. However, some were motivated by previously having been refused dogs from UK rescues. Adopters reported that the EU Pet Travel Scheme was used to import 89 per cent of dogs, with only 1.2 per cent reportedly under the more stringent (and correct) Balai Directive. 14.8 per cent (79/533) of dogs reportedly tested for Leishmania infantum had positive results. Although sometimes severe, the prevalence of behavioural problems appeared comparable to that of other rescue dogs. CONCLUSION It is important that vets consider testing for exotic diseases, and the provision of behavioural support, when seeing imported patients. Our findings emphasise the importance of clear guidelines on travel laws, and stricter checks on animals imported as rescues, to ensure protection against the importation of diseases that pose a risk to animal and human health in the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Norman
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Jenny Stavisky
- Centre for Evidence-based Veterinary Medicine, University of Nottingham School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, Nottingham, UK
| | - Carri Westgarth
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK .,Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to estimate the annual incidence of Lyme disease (LD) in the UK. DESIGN This was a retrospective descriptive cohort study. SETTING Study data were extracted from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), a primary care database covering about 8% of the population in the UK in 658 primary care practices. PARTICIPANTS Cohort of 8.4 million individuals registered with general practitioners with 52.4 million person-years of observation between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2012. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES LD was identified from recorded medical codes, notes indicating LD, laboratory tests and use of specific antibiotics. Annual incidence rates and the estimated total number of LD cases were calculated separately for each UK region. RESULTS The number of cases of LD increased rapidly over the years 2001 to 2012, leading to an estimated incidence rate of 12.1 (95% CI 11.1 to 13.2) per 100 000 individuals per year and a UK total of 7738 LD cases in 2012. LD was detected in every UK region with highest incidence rates and largest number of cases in Scotland followed by South West and South England. If the number of cases has continued to rise since the end of the study period, then the number in the UK in 2019 could be over 8000. : Conclusions : The incidence of LD is about threefold higher than previously estimated, and people are at risk throughout the UK. These results should lead to increased awareness of the need for preventive measures. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER This study was approved by the Independent Scientific Advisory Committee for CPRD research (Protocol number 13_210R).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher Wallenhorst
- Epidemiology, Institute for Epidemiology, Statistics and Informatics GmbH, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stephan Rietbrock
- Epidemiology, Institute for Epidemiology, Statistics and Informatics GmbH, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Carlos Martinez
- Epidemiology, Institute for Epidemiology, Statistics and Informatics GmbH, Frankfurt, Germany
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Tulloch JSP, Semper AE, Brooks TJG, Russell K, Halsby KD, Christley RM, Radford AD, Vivancos R, Warner JC. The demographics and geographic distribution of laboratory-confirmed Lyme disease cases in England and Wales (2013-2016): an ecological study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e028064. [PMID: 31362976 PMCID: PMC6677960 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lyme disease is a tick-borne disease of increasing incidence and public concern across the Northern Hemisphere. However, the socio-demographics and geographic distribution of the population affected in England and Wales are poorly understood. Therefore, the proposed study was designed to describe the demographics and distribution of laboratory-confirmed cases of Lyme disease from a national testing laboratory. DESIGN An ecological study of routinely collected laboratory surveillance data. SETTING Public Health England's national Lyme disease testing laboratory. PARTICIPANTS 3986 laboratory-confirmed cases of Lyme disease between 2013 and 2016. RESULTS In England and Wales, the incidence of laboratory-confirmed Lyme disease rose significantly over the study period from 1.62 cases per 100 000 in 2013 to 1.95 cases per 100 000 in 2016. There was a bimodal age distribution (with peaks at 6-10 and 61-65 years age bands) with a predominance of male patients. A significant clustering of areas with high Lyme disease incidence was located in southern England. An association was found between disease incidence and socioeconomic status, based on the patient's resident postcode, with more cases found in less deprived areas. Cases were disproportionately found in rural areas compared with the national population distribution. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that Lyme disease patients originate from areas with higher socioeconomic status and disproportionately in rural areas. Identification of the Lyme disease hotspots in southern England, alongside the socio-demographics described, will enable a targeted approach to public health interventions and messages.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S P Tulloch
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Field Epidemiology Service, Public Health England, Liverpool, UK
| | - Amanda E Semper
- Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Tim J G Brooks
- Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | | | - Kate D Halsby
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Robert M Christley
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Alan D Radford
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Roberto Vivancos
- Field Epidemiology Service, Public Health England, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Public Health England, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jenny C Warner
- Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
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Jongejan F, de Jong S, Voskuilen T, van den Heuvel L, Bouman R, Heesen H, Ijzermans C, Berger L. "Tekenscanner": a novel smartphone application for companion animal owners and veterinarians to engage in tick and tick-borne pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:116. [PMID: 30909941 PMCID: PMC6434828 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3373-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The engagement of companion animal owners into the process of collecting epidemiological data can be facilitated through smartphone applications. In April 2018, the “tekenscanner“ (Dutch for tick scanner) app was launched with the aim of engaging pet owners and veterinarians to record ticks removed from their pets and submit these ticks for identification and pathogen testing. Tick-borne pathogens identified in ticks removed from dogs and cats during the first 6 months after the app was launched in the Netherlands are reported. Methods The tekenscanner app was used to record the geographical coordinates of ticks removed from dogs or cats onto a map of the Netherlands. A barcode was assigned to each tick for the easy tracking of each submission to our laboratory for taxonomic identification. Thereafter, DNA extracted from the ticks was PCR amplified, subjected to reverse line blot hybridization (RLB) and screened for a broad range of tick-borne pathogens. Results were added to the same app, usually within 2 weeks after the submission of each tick. Results The app was downloaded 5591 times and resulted in the collection of 1273 georeferenced and barcoded ticks, with a peak submission in May and June of 2018. There were 1005 ticks collected from 406 dogs and 268 ticks collected from 111 cats. Ixodes ricinus was the predominant species (90.0%), with all stages found on dogs as well as on cats. Ixodes hexagonus (7.3%) female and nymphal ticks were also identified on both hosts, whereas adults of Dermacentor reticulatus (2.4%) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (0.2%) were exclusively found on dogs. Nearly 15% of the ticks recovered from dogs carried one or more pathogens, whereas 13.8% of the ticks removed from cats were infected. Ixodes ricinus collected from dogs contained Borrelia spp. (1.9%), Babesia spp. (0.7%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (1.3%), “Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis” (2.9%) and Rickettsia helvetica (7.3%). Ixodes ricinus recovered from cats were infected with Borrelia spp. (1.9%), Babesia spp. (0.4%), A. phagocytophilum (1.9%), “Ca. Neoehrlichia mikurensis” (2.6%) and R. helvetica (6.7%). Ixodes hexagonus ticks (n = 93) were not infected. Dermacentor reticulatus ticks, found only in autumn, were infected with Rickettsia raoultii (16 %) and A. phagocytophilum. Three R. sanguineus, on dogs from France and the USA imported into the Netherlands, were all negative. Conclusions The tekenscanner app is a versatile tool to use for submission of ticks and facilitated the fast feedback of test results. Community engagement through the app is suitable for identifying hotspots for ticks and tick-borne pathogens and provided an early warning system for exotic ticks invading the Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frans Jongejan
- Utrecht Centre for Tick-borne Diseases (UCTD), FAO Reference Centre for Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands. .,Vectors and Vector-borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, Republic of South Africa.
| | - Suzanne de Jong
- Utrecht Centre for Tick-borne Diseases (UCTD), FAO Reference Centre for Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Timo Voskuilen
- Utrecht Centre for Tick-borne Diseases (UCTD), FAO Reference Centre for Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Louise van den Heuvel
- Utrecht Centre for Tick-borne Diseases (UCTD), FAO Reference Centre for Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rick Bouman
- Utrecht Centre for Tick-borne Diseases (UCTD), FAO Reference Centre for Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Henk Heesen
- Bayer Animal Health, Energieweg 1, 3641 RT, Mijdrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Carlijn Ijzermans
- Bayer Animal Health, Energieweg 1, 3641 RT, Mijdrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Berger
- Utrecht Centre for Tick-borne Diseases (UCTD), FAO Reference Centre for Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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James CA, Pearl DL, Lindsay LR, Peregrine AS, Jardine CM. Risk factors associated with the carriage of Ixodes scapularis relative to other tick species in a population of pet dogs from southeastern Ontario, Canada. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2019; 10:290-298. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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50
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Zhao L, Lin XM, Li F, Li KR, He B, Zhang LY, Pan JJ, Wang QR, Gao JM, Johnson N, Yuan XF, Lv JZ, Wu SQ, Liu YH. A survey of argasid ticks and tick-associated pathogens in the Peripheral Oases around Tarim Basin and the first record of Argas japonicus in Xinjiang, China. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0208615. [PMID: 30586406 PMCID: PMC6306169 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0208615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Argasid ticks (Acari: Argasidae) carry and transmit a variety of pathogens of animals and humans, including viruses, bacteria and parasites. There are several studies reporting ixodid ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and associated tick-borne pathogens in Xinjiang, China. However, little is known about the argasid ticks and argasid tick-associated pathogens in this area. In this study, a total of 3829 adult argasid ticks infesting livestock were collected at 12 sampling sites of 10 counties in the Peripheral Oases, which carry 90% of the livestock and humans population, around the Tarim Basin (southern Xinjiang) from 2013 to 2016. Tick specimens were identified to two species from different genera by morphology and sequences of mitochondrial 16S rRNA and 12S rRNA were derived to confirm the species designation. The results showed that the dominant argasid ticks infesting livestock in southern Xinjiang were Ornithodoros lahorensis (87.86%, 3364/3829). Ornithodoros lahorensis was distributed widely and were collected from 10 counties of southern Xinjiang. Argas japonicus was collected from Xinjiang for the first time. In addition, we screened these ticks for tick-associated pathogens and showed the presence of DNA sequences of Rickettsia spp. of Spotted fever group and Anaplasma spp. in the argasid ticks. This finding suggests the potential role for Argas japonicus as a vector of pathogens to livestock and humans.
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MESH Headings
- Anaplasma/classification
- Anaplasma/genetics
- Anaplasma/isolation & purification
- Anaplasma/pathogenicity
- Animals
- Argas/classification
- Argas/genetics
- Argas/microbiology
- Cattle
- China
- Disease Vectors
- Mitochondria/genetics
- Ornithodoros/classification
- Ornithodoros/genetics
- Ornithodoros/microbiology
- Phylogeny
- RNA, Ribosomal/classification
- RNA, Ribosomal/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal/metabolism
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/classification
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/metabolism
- Rickettsia/classification
- Rickettsia/genetics
- Rickettsia/isolation & purification
- Rickettsia/pathogenicity
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sheep
- Tick Infestations/parasitology
- Tick Infestations/pathology
- Tick Infestations/veterinary
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhao
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Mei Lin
- Institute of Animal Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Li
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, People’s Republic of China
- Animal Loimia Controlling and Diagnostic Center of Aksu Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kai-Rui Li
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo He
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lu-Yao Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiao-Jiao Pan
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiang-Rong Wang
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia-Min Gao
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, People’s Republic of China
| | - Nicholas Johnson
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Xiang-Fen Yuan
- Institute of Animal Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ji-Zhou Lv
- Institute of Animal Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (Liu Y); (Wu S); (Lv J)
| | - Shao-Qiang Wu
- Institute of Animal Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (Liu Y); (Wu S); (Lv J)
| | - Yong-Hong Liu
- College of Animal Science, Tarim University; Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology of Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps, Alar, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (Liu Y); (Wu S); (Lv J)
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