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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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Sioutas G, Tsakou K, Top C, Jongejan F, Papadopoulos E. First clinical case of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in a dog in Greece. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102226. [PMID: 37419000 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) causes tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), affecting human health in Europe and Asia. Reports on canine clinical cases of TBE are rare, although dogs are used as sentinels for assessing human health risks. The first canine clinical TBE case in Greece is reported in this case report. The dog had a history of tick infestation and displayed neurological symptoms, particularly tetraparesis, neck hyperalgesia, and a sudden behavior change. Serum samples were obtained and examined in a commercial ELISA to detect anti-TBEV specific IgG and IgM antibodies. The dog tested seropositive for both IgG and IgM, and based on its history and compatible clinical signs, the diagnosis of TBE infection was reached. The prognosis was initially poor, and treatment included the administration of fluids, corticosteroids, and antibiotics, followed by physical therapy. After a 10-day hospitalization, the dog had a much better prognosis. This case highlights that TBEV does emerge in new locations, increasing human and animal infection risk. Veterinarians should include TBE in their differential diagnosis of canine patients with a history of tick infestations, progressive neurological symptoms, and abnormal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Sioutas
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece
| | - Kyriaki Tsakou
- Veterinary Center of Companion Animals "Pet Vet Academy", Xanthi, GR 67100, Greece
| | - Chousein Top
- Veterinary Center of Companion Animals "Pet Vet Academy", Xanthi, GR 67100, Greece
| | - Frans Jongejan
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece.
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Aneela A, Almutairi MM, Alouffi A, Ahmed H, Tanaka T, da Silva Vaz I, Chang SC, Chen CC, Ali A. Molecular Detection of Rickettsia hoogstraalii in Hyalomma anatolicum and Haemaphysalis sulcata: Updated Knowledge on the Epidemiology of Tick-Borne Rickettsia hoogstraalii. Vet Sci 2023; 10:605. [PMID: 37888557 PMCID: PMC10611279 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10100605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites that transmit pathogens to animals and humans. Updated knowledge regarding the global epidemiology of tick-borne Rickettsia hoogstraalii is dispersed, and its molecular detection and genetic characterization are missing in Pakistan. The current study objectives were to molecularly detect and genetically characterize Rickettsia species, especially R. hoogstraalii, in hard ticks infesting livestock in Pakistan, and to provide updated knowledge regarding their global epidemiology. Ticks were collected from livestock, including goats, sheep, and cattle, in six districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Pakistan. Overall, 183 hosts were examined, of which 134 (73.2%), including goats (number = 39/54, 72.2%), sheep (23/40, 57.5%), and cattle (71/89, 80%) were infested by 823 ticks. The most prevalent tick species was Rhipicephalus microplus (number = 283, 34.3%), followed by Hyalomma anatolicum (223, 27.0%), Rhipicephalus turanicus (122, 14.8%), Haemaphysalis sulcata (104, 12.6%), Haemaphysalis montgomeryi (66, 8.0%), and Haemaphysalis bispinosa (25, 3.03%). A subset of 210 ticks was selected and screened for Rickettsia spp. using PCR-based amplification and subsequent sequencing of rickettsial gltA and ompB fragments. The overall occurrence rate of R. hoogstraalii was 4.3% (number = 9/210). The DNA of Rickettsia was detected in Hy. anatolicum (3/35, 8.5%) and Ha. sulcata (6/49, 12.2%). However, no rickettsial DNA was detected in Rh. microplus (35), Rh. turanicus (35), Ha. montgomeryi (42), and Ha. bispinosa (14). The gltA and ompB fragments showed 99-100% identity with R. hoogstraalii and clustered phylogenetically with the corresponding species from Pakistan, Italy, Georgia, and China. R. hoogstraalii was genetically characterized for the first time in Pakistan and Hy. anatolicum globally. Further studies should be encouraged to determine the role of ticks in the maintenance and transmission of R. hoogstraalii in different hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneela Aneela
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
| | - Mashal M. Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Abdulaziz Alouffi
- King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh 12354, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Haroon Ahmed
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Park Road, Chak Shahzad, Islamabad 45550, Pakistan;
| | - Tetsuya Tanaka
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan;
| | - Itabajara da Silva Vaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia and Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90050-170, RS, Brazil;
| | - Shun-Chung Chang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi 60002, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chin Chen
- Department of Pathology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi 60002, Taiwan;
- Department of Cosmetic Science, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan 71710, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioindustry Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Abid Ali
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
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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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Athanasiou LV, Katsogiannou EG, Tyrnenopoulou P, Gougoulis D, Apostolidis KN, Papadakis SM, Kokkinaki KCG, Papatsiros VG, Tsokana CN. Evidence of Horse Exposure to Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leishmania infantum in Greece through the Detection of IgG Antibodies in Serum and in an Alternative Diagnostic Sample-The Saliva. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1374. [PMID: 37759774 PMCID: PMC10526806 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091374] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the various zoonotic pathogens that infect horses, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia spp. and Leishmania spp. have gained scientific interest, and relevant molecular and serological studies in horses have been conducted worldwide. Moreover, human and veterinary medicine have extensively applied alternatives to serum diagnostic samples-such as saliva-for detecting pathogens or antibodies. In this study, we investigated the exposure of horses in Greece to A. phagocytophilum, B. burgdorferi, and L. infantum, and we assessed the diagnostic accuracy of saliva compared to serum in detecting IgG antibodies against the abovementioned pathogens. Paired saliva and serum samples were collected from 317 horses from different regions in Greece. The paired samples were examined using the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) for detecting IgG antibodies against A. phagocytophilum, B. burgdorferi, and L. infantum. Sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), and negative likelihood ratio (NLR) were determined to assess the validity of saliva as an alternative to serum. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve revealed that the optimal cut-off value for detecting antibodies against all the examined pathogens in saliva was 1/10. Higher seropositivity rates were found for B. burgdorferi (15.14%) and A. phagocytophilum (14.19%) compared to L. infantum (1.26%). The detection of IgG antibodies using IFAT in saliva samples had a good test performance compared to serum. The two sample types had a substantial to almost perfect agreement. Although the sensitivity was moderate (70.83-75.56%) in all cases, the specificity was almost perfect to perfect (99.63-100%). This study provides the first evidence that horses in Greece are exposed to A. phagocytophilum and B. burgdorferi and confirms that the seroprevalence of L. infantum in horses in Greece remains low. Our findings suggest that saliva sampling coupled with IFAT could be successfully applied for detecting IgG antibodies against these important zoonotic pathogens in large-scale epidemiological studies in horses, at the population level, as an alternative to serum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Labrini V. Athanasiou
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.G.K.); (P.T.); (D.G.); (K.N.A.); (S.M.P.); (K.C.G.K.); (V.G.P.)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Constantina N. Tsokana
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.G.K.); (P.T.); (D.G.); (K.N.A.); (S.M.P.); (K.C.G.K.); (V.G.P.)
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Brianti E, Napoli E, De Benedetto G, Venco L, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Basile A, Bezerra-Santos MA, Drake J, Schaper R, Otranto D. Elimination of Dirofilaria immitis Infection in Dogs, Linosa Island, Italy, 2020-2022. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:1559-1565. [PMID: 37486185 PMCID: PMC10370836 DOI: 10.3201/eid2908.221910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
On Linosa Island, Italy, Dirofilaria immitis infection has been hyperendemic in dogs and seroprevalent among islanders. In 2020, we implemented a heartworm disease elimination program on Linosa Island. Of 54 dogs tested for D. immitis antigen and microfilariae, 28 had positive results and received treatment with oral doxycycline twice daily for 4 weeks plus topical imidacloprid/moxidectin monthly for 12 months. The 26 dogs with negative results received monthly topical imidacloprid/moxidectin as preventive. During month 1, the number of microfilaremic dogs was reduced by 76.5%. From month 2 on, all animals were microfilariae negative, and during months 3 to 9, the number of antigen-positive dogs decreased progressively. Treatment of positive dogs coupled with chemoprophylaxis for noninfected dogs was effective, protecting them from new infections. The elimination program reduced the risk for human infection, representing a One Health paradigm. Monitoring and chemoprophylaxis are advocated to maintain the status of heartworm disease-free area.
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Ligda P, Gizzarelli M, Kostopoulou D, Foglia Manzillo V, Saratsis A, Saratsi K, Michler S, Ringeisen H, Boegel A, Schunack B, Pollmeier M, Kontrafouris M, Tsatsaki O, Oliva G, Sotiraki S. Determination of the effect of collars containing 10% w/w imidacloprid and 4.5% w/w flumethrin (Seresto®) on the incidence of Leishmania and other canine vector-borne pathogen infections in Greece. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:89. [PMID: 36882870 PMCID: PMC9990277 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05678-4] [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: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this field study was to assess the effect of treating a considerable portion of a dog population naturally exposed to canine vector-borne pathogens (CVBPs) in endemic areas with a 10% w/w imidacloprid/4.5% w/w flumethrin collar (Seresto®) on the transmission of CVBPs and the resulting incidence of infection. METHODS A total of 479 dogs from two sites were enrolled in the study. Collars were placed on all dogs continuously for 21 months, with replacement of the collar every 7 months. All dogs were examined, including body weight and blood/conjunctival swab collections, every 7 months. Serum samples were analysed for the presence of antibodies against Leishmania infantum, Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. PCR assays were also performed on blood samples and conjunctival swab collected from the dogs for the presence of L. infantum, and on blood samples only for the presence of Ehrlichia spp. and Anaplasma spp. Sand flies were collected, identified to species level and molecularly tested for L. infantum throughout two vector activity seasons. RESULTS The results showed that the Seresto collar was safe with continuous use. At study inclusion, 419, 370 and 453 dogs tested negative for L. infantum, Ehrlichia spp. and Anaplasma spp., respectively (353 dogs tested negative for any pathogen). Overall, 90.2% of the dogs were protected from L. infantum infection on both sites combined. The entomological survey confirmed the presence of competent vectors of L. infantum at all monitored locations, namely the sand flies Phlebotomus neglectus and Phlebotomus tobbi, both of which are regarded as the most important competent vectors in the Mediterranean basin. All captured sand flies tested negative for L. infantum. Protection against ticks and fleas was high, with only two dogs showing a low number of ticks and seven dogs having low numbers of fleas at single evaluation time points. Across the entire study population, a number of dogs became infected with tick-transmitted pathogens, but prevention of transmission was 93% for E. canis and 87.2% for Anaplasma spp. when all cases from both sites were combined. CONCLUSIONS The Seresto® (10% w/w imidacloprid/4.5% w/w flumethrin) collar significantly reduced the risk of CVBP transmission when compared to previously observed incidences of CVBP infections in two highly endemic areas under field conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Ligda
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization–Demeter, 57001 Thermi, Thessaloniki Greece
| | - Manuela Gizzarelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Despoina Kostopoulou
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization–Demeter, 57001 Thermi, Thessaloniki Greece
| | - Valentina Foglia Manzillo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Anastasios Saratsis
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization–Demeter, 57001 Thermi, Thessaloniki Greece
| | - Katerina Saratsi
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization–Demeter, 57001 Thermi, Thessaloniki Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gaetano Oliva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Smaragda Sotiraki
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization–Demeter, 57001 Thermi, Thessaloniki Greece
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Saratsis A, Ligda P, Aal F, Jelicic M, Polgar J, de Vries M, Mastranestasis I, Musella V, Rinaldi L, Jongejan F, Sotiraki S. The Scenario of Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens of Sheep on a Mediterranean Island. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10081551. [PMID: 36013969 PMCID: PMC9412349 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10081551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks and transmitted pathogens constitute a major concern for livestock health/welfare and productivity for the Mediterranean region, often posing an important zoonotic threat. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence, infection intensity, and seasonality of ticks and tick-borne pathogens on the island of Lesvos in Greece, which was selected as a potential hotspot for their circulation. To this end, 101 sheep farms were visited over a tick activity season, and ticks, blood samples, and questionnaire data were collected. Ticks were identified by species, and DNA from both ticks and blood samples was further investigated using the polymerase chain reaction–reverse line blot (PCR–RLB) technique. In 72.3% of the farms, sheep were found to be infected by 9 ixodid species, with Rhipicephalus turanicus being the most common during the spring/early summer period. As regards tick-borne pathogens (TBPs), 84.9% of the animals were found to be infected with at least one pathogen, the most common being genera of Anaplasma and Theileria, alone or in co-infections. To further characterize the Anaplasma species found, selected samples were sequenced, revealing isolates of A. ovis, A. capra, A. marginale, and A. phagocytophilum. Of the 169 female R. turanicus ticks analyzed by PCR–RLB, 89.9% were harboring at least one TBP belonging to the genera Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Babesia, Theileria, or Rickettsia. Overall, the data presented in this study revealed a high burden of ticks and TBPs in sheep, including zoonotic species, stressing the need for applying effective monitoring and control programs using a more holistic One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Saratsis
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation-Demeter, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.L.); (I.M.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); or (S.S.)
| | - Panagiota Ligda
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation-Demeter, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.L.); (I.M.)
| | - Fredie Aal
- 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; (F.A.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.d.V.); or (F.J.)
| | - Mandy Jelicic
- 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; (F.A.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.d.V.); or (F.J.)
| | - Juliette Polgar
- 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; (F.A.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.d.V.); or (F.J.)
| | - Myrthe de Vries
- 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; (F.A.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.d.V.); or (F.J.)
| | - Ioannis Mastranestasis
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation-Demeter, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.L.); (I.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Musella
- Department of Health Science, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, CREMOPAR Campania Region, Via Della Veterinaria 1, 80137 Naples, Italy;
| | - 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; (F.A.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.d.V.); or (F.J.)
- TBD International B.V., Ramstraat 39, 3581 HE Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
| | - Smaragda Sotiraki
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation-Demeter, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.L.); (I.M.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); or (S.S.)
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Bezerra-Santos MA, de Macedo LO, Nguyen VL, Manoj RRS, Laidoudi Y, Latrofa MS, Beugnet F, Otranto D. Cercopithifilaria spp. in ticks of companion animals from Asia: new putative hosts and vectors. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:101957. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.101957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Distribution of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Domestic Animals and Their Ticks in the Countries of the Mediterranean Basin between 2000 and 2021: A Systematic Review. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10061236. [PMID: 35744755 PMCID: PMC9228937 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10061236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) include a wide range of bacteria, parasites and viruses that cause a large spectrum of animal, human and zoonotic tick-borne diseases (TBDs). The object of this review was to establish an inventory and an analysis of TBPs found in domestic animals in the countries of the Mediterranean Basin. This geographic area occupies a central position between several continents and is an area of movement for animals, humans and pathogens of interest and their vectors, which is important in terms of animal and human health. In this systematic review, we included a total of 271 publications produced between 2000–2021 concerning TBPs in domestic animals. Among this literature, we found a total of 90 pathogen species (known as TBPs) reported in the 20 countries of the area; these were detected in tick species from domestic animals and were also directly detected in domestic animals. In all, 31 tick species were recorded and 12 domestic animal species, the latter comprising nine livestock and three pet species. More than 50% of the publications were from Western Europe. Island data were extracted and assessed, as islands of the Mediterranean Basin were represented in 16% of the publications and 77.8% of the TBPs reported. Our results show the importance of islands in the monitoring of TBPs, despite the low percentage of publications.
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Lineberry MW, Sundstrom KD, Little SE, Allen KE. Molecular detection of Cercopithifilaria bainae in brown dog ticks collected from dogs across the United States. Vet Parasitol 2021; 299:109583. [PMID: 34583143 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cercopithifilaria bainae is a filarioid nematode of dogs shown to use Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.), the brown dog tick, as the vector. Previously in the United States, C. bainae infections have been reported in a dog from Florida, and in dogs and ticks in Oklahoma, but data are lacking from other areas of the country. Here, we tested brown dog ticks from across the United States for C. bainae DNA to assess the geographic distribution of where this novel parasite may be cycling in ticks and dogs. Archival brown dog ticks were available for testing through the national tick survey Show Us Your Ticks. Ticks were morphologically identified, dissected, and tested by PCR to detect filarioid mitochondrial DNA. A total of 1400 brown dog ticks were tested from 321 separate animals from 23 states, with 5.7 % (80/1400) of the ticks testing positive for C. bainae DNA. At least one positive tick was detected in submissions from 9 states in addition to Florida and Oklahoma. Cercopithifilaria bainae DNA was detected in larval, nymphal, and adult stages of brown dog ticks and only in ticks removed from dogs. Of all dogs with brown dog ticks collected from them, 17.6 % (55/312) were infested with at least one tick that harbored C. bainae DNA. Findings from this study demonstrate a wider geographic range of C. bainae than previously known, and that dogs are commonly infested with brown dog ticks with molecular evidence of C. bainae infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan W Lineberry
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Kellee D Sundstrom
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Susan E Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Kelly E Allen
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Stillwater, OK, USA.
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Efstratiou A, Karanis G, Karanis P. Tick-Borne Pathogens and Diseases in Greece. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9081732. [PMID: 34442811 PMCID: PMC8399993 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9081732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) are recognized as a serious and growing public health epidemic in Europe, and are a cause of major losses in livestock production worldwide. This review is an attempt to present a summary of results from studies conducted over the last century until the end of the year 2020 regarding ticks, tick-borne pathogens, and tick-borne diseases in Greece. We provide an overview of the tick species found in Greece, as well as the most important tick-borne pathogens (viruses, bacteria, protozoa) and corresponding diseases in circulation. We also consider prevalence data, as well as geographic and climatic conditions. Knowledge of past and current situations of TBDs, as well as an awareness of (risk) factors affecting future developments will help to find approaches to integrated tick management as part of the ‘One Health Concept’; it will assist in avoiding the possibility of hotspot disease emergencies and intra- and intercontinental transmission. Increased surveillance in Greece is required to ensure clear and effective policies for TBD control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artemis Efstratiou
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan;
| | - Gabriele Karanis
- Orthopädische Rehabilitationsklinik, Eisenmoorbad Bad Schmiedeberg Kur GmbH, 06905 Bad Schmiedeberg, Germany;
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Medical Faculty and University Hospital, The University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi. P.O. Box 24005, Nicosia CY-1700, Cyprus
- Correspondence:
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Panarese R, Iatta R, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Zatelli A, Beugnet F, Otranto D. Efficacy of afoxolaner (NexGard®) in preventing the transmission of Leishmania infantum and Dirofilaria immitis to sheltered dogs in a highly endemic area. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:381. [PMID: 34325730 PMCID: PMC8323259 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04883-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leishmania infantum and Dirofilaria immitis are among the most important canine vector-borne pathogens (CVBPs) of zoonotic concern in Europe. In endemic areas for both of these CVBPs, the use of systemic ectoparasiticides, such as afoxolaner (NexGard®; Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health), may have the potential for controlling these infections. The aim of this study was to assess, for the first time, the insecticidal efficacy of NexGard® in decreasing the transmission of D. immitis and L. infantum to sheltered dogs living in a hyperendemic area, compared to the year before treatment, as well as its impact on the abundance of mosquito and sand fly populations. Methods All dogs (n = 179) enrolled in the study were divided into two groups based on their infection status at enrollment: a non-infected group (G1) and an infected group (G2; infected with D. immitis, L. infantum or both). The study was conducted from March 2020 to March 2021. In order to exclude all animals infected with L. infantum and D. immitis before March 2020 (sampling time: T0), dogs in G1 were sampled in June (T1; i.e. T0 + 90 days) and in October 2020 (T2; i.e. T0 + 210 days). From March to September 2020, all animals (G1 and G2) were weighed and treated monthly with NexGard®. Animals in G1 were tested for the last time in March 2021 (T3; i.e. T0 + 330 days) for assessing post-treatment incidence rate of infection and prevention efficacy. Results The post-treatment incidence of D. immitis was 3.7% (1/27; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2–18.1) and that of L. infantum was 3.6% (3/83; 95% CI: 1.0–10.1). Considering the annual incidence in 2019 and 2020, the protective efficacy against D. immitis and L. infantum infections was 94.2 and 64%, respectively. Of the female mosquitoes collected (n = 146), only one pool out of 50 tested positive for D. immitis DNA, whereas out of 1252 female Sergentomya minuta specimens collected, only four tested positive for L. infantum (0.3%). Conclusions Afoxolaner is efficacious in decreasing the rate of transmission of both D. immitis and L. infantum; however, comparison of the pre- and post-treatment period demonstrated that there was a significant difference only in the seasonal incidences of D. immitis infection. Preventive measures are recommended throughout the year in endemic areas to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission to animals and humans. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Panarese
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Zatelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy. .,Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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15
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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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Coimbra-Dores MJ, Jaarsma RI, Carmo AO, Maia-Silva M, Fonville M, da Costa DFF, Brandão RML, Azevedo F, Casero M, Oliveira AC, Afonso SMDS, Sprong H, Rosa F, Dias D. Mitochondrial sequences of Rhipicephalus and Coxiella endosymbiont reveal evidence of lineages co-cladogenesis. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2020; 96:5824628. [PMID: 32329790 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiaa072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhipicephalus ticks are competent vectors of several pathogens, such as Spotted Fever Group Rickettsiae (SFGR) and many Babesia species. Within this genus, different R. sanguineus s.l. lineages show an unequal vector competence and resistance regarding some pathogenic strains. Current literature supports that tick endosymbionts may play an essential role in the transmission ability of a vector. Indeed, the microbial community of Rhipicephalus seems to be dominated by Coxiella-like endosymbionts (CLE). Still, their co-evolutionary associations with the complicated phylogeny of Rhipicephalus lineages and their transmissible pathogens remain unclear. We performed a phylogenetic congruence analysis to address whether divergent R. sanguineus s.l. lineages had a different symbiont composition. For that, we applied a PCR based approach to screen part of the microbial community present in 279 Rhipicephalus ticks from the Iberian Peninsula and Africa. Our analyses detected several qPCR-positive signals for both SFGR and Babesia species, of which we suggest R. sanguineus-tropical lineage as a natural vector of Babesia vogeli and R. sanguineus-temperate lineage of SFGR. The acquisition of 190 CLE sequences allowed to evaluate co-phylogenetic associations between the tick and the symbiont. With this data, we observed a strong but incomplete co-cladogenesis between CLE strains and their Rhipicephalus tick lineages hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria João Coimbra-Dores
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ryanne Isolde Jaarsma
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Anderson Oliveira Carmo
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mariana Maia-Silva
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Manoj Fonville
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ricardo Manuel Lemos Brandão
- Wild Animal Ecology, Rehabilitation and Surveillance Center (CERVAS), Serra da Estrela Natural Park, 6290-909 Gouveia, Portugal
| | - Fábia Azevedo
- Wildlife Rehabilitation and Investigation Center (RIAS), Ria Formosa Natural Park, 8700-225 Olhão, Portugal
| | - María Casero
- Wildlife Rehabilitation and Investigation Center (RIAS), Ria Formosa Natural Park, 8700-225 Olhão, Portugal
| | - Ana Cristina Oliveira
- Casa dos Animais Veterinary Clinic, Travessa Quinta da Rosa Linda, Morro Bento, Luanda, Angola
| | | | - Hein Sprong
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Fernanda Rosa
- Instituto Superior de Agronomia (ISA), Universidade de Lisboa, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017 Lisboa, Portugal.,Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Deodália Dias
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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Morelli S, Diakou A, Traversa D, Di Gennaro E, Simonato G, Colombo M, Dimzas D, Grillini M, Frangipane di Regalbono A, Beugnet F, Halos L, Paoletti B, Di Cesare A. First record of Hepatozoon spp. in domestic cats in Greece. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 12:101580. [PMID: 33113475 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Feline hepatozoonosis is an emerging disease of domestic and wild felids though there is limited knowledge of this infection, e.g. regarding geographical distribution and parasite species involved. The present study evaluated microscopically and molecularly the occurrence of Hepatozoon spp. in domestic cats from insular (Crete, Mykonos and Skopelos) and continental (prefectures of Attica and Thessaloniki) Greece. Out of 282 cats examined, 72 (25.5 %) scored positive by PCR for Hepatozoon spp. and of them, 9 (12.5 %) showed gamonts on the blood smear microscopic examination. Sequences obtained from 35 of the amplicons proved the presence of two haplotypes of Hepatozoon felis. One, herein called H1 (34/35 amplicons) resulted 100 % identical with H. felis from Italy and isolates from other continents, and ∼98 % similar with a H. felis isolate causing severe clinical signs in Austria. The haplotype H2, found in a cat in Skopelos, had ∼94 % identity with H1, with H. felis isolates from Italy, Israel, Spain, a ∼92 % identity with the isolate from Austria, and ∼94-98 % with isolates from South Africa. These are the first records of H. felis in cat populations from Greece and indicate that the infection may be present at high prevalences in different regions of the country. Furthermore, the results of the molecular and phylogenetic analysis support a recent hypothesis indicating the existence of a species-complex classification for H. felis. Further studies aiming at elucidating the genetic make-up of Hepatozoon populations and possible variations in terms of geographic distribution and clinical relevance are necessary. The importance of a continuous epizootiological monitoring is crucial for the establishment of preventative and control measures protecting the health of cats living in or travelling to enzootic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Elisa Di Gennaro
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giulia Simonato
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy
| | - Mariasole Colombo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Dimitris Dimzas
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Marika Grillini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Barbara Paoletti
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
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Nguyen VL, Colella V, Greco G, Fang F, Nurcahyo W, Hadi UK, Venturina V, Tong KBY, Tsai YL, Taweethavonsawat P, Tiwananthagorn S, Tangtrongsup S, Le TQ, Bui KL, Do T, Watanabe M, Rani PAMA, Dantas-Torres F, Halos L, Beugnet F, Otranto D. Molecular detection of pathogens in ticks and fleas collected from companion dogs and cats in East and Southeast Asia. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:420. [PMID: 32799914 PMCID: PMC7429691 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04288-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ticks and fleas are considered amongst the most important arthropod vectors of medical and veterinary concern due to their ability to transmit pathogens to a range of animal species including dogs, cats and humans. By sharing a common environment with humans, companion animal-associated parasitic arthropods may potentially transmit zoonotic vector-borne pathogens (VBPs). This study aimed to molecularly detect pathogens from ticks and fleas from companion dogs and cats in East and Southeast Asia. Methods A total of 392 ticks and 248 fleas were collected from 401 infested animals (i.e. 271 dogs and 130 cats) from China, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam, and molecularly screened for the presence of pathogens. Ticks were tested for Rickettsia spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp. and Hepatozoon spp. while fleas were screened for the presence of Rickettsia spp. and Bartonella spp. Result Of the 392 ticks tested, 37 (9.4%) scored positive for at least one pathogen with Hepatozoon canis being the most prevalent (5.4%), followed by Ehrlichia canis (1.8%), Babesia vogeli (1%), Anaplasma platys (0.8%) and Rickettsia spp. (1%) [including Rickettsia sp. (0.5%), Rickettsia asembonensis (0.3%) and Rickettsia felis (0.3%)]. Out of 248 fleas tested, 106 (42.7%) were harboring at least one pathogen with R. felis being the most common (19.4%), followed by Bartonella spp. (16.5%), Rickettsia asembonensis (10.9%) and “Candidatus Rickettsia senegalensis” (0.4%). Furthermore, 35 Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks were subjected to phylogenetic analysis, of which 34 ticks belonged to the tropical and only one belonged to the temperate lineage (Rh. sanguineus (sensu stricto)). Conclusion Our data reveals the circulation of different VBPs in ticks and fleas of dogs and cats from Asia, including zoonotic agents, which may represent a potential risk to animal and human health.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Viet-Linh Nguyen
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Vito Colella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy.,Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Grazia Greco
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Fang Fang
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Wisnu Nurcahyo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakata, Indonesia
| | | | - Virginia Venturina
- College of Veterinary Science & Medicine, Central Luzon State University, Nueva Ecija, Philippines
| | | | - Yi-Lun Tsai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | - Thong Quang Le
- Faculty of Animal Science & Veterinary Medicine, Nong Lam University, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
| | - Khanh Linh Bui
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thom Do
- Biodiversity Conservation and Tropical Disease Research Institute, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Malaika Watanabe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | | | - Filipe Dantas-Torres
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy.,Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Recife, Brazil
| | - Lenaig Halos
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Lyon, France
| | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy. .,Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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Angelou A, Latrofa MS, Annoscia G, Symeonidou I, Theodoridis A, Polizopoulou ZS, Otranto D, Papadopoulos E. Cercopithifilaria species in dogs and ticks from Greece. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:3391-3400. [PMID: 32607708 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06784-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Filarioids of the genus Cercopithifilaria (Spirurida, Onchocercidae) are parasites of wild and domestic animals in tropical and subtropical regions being transmitted by ixodid ticks. Though this filarioid species have been studied in canine and tick populations in Europe, data on their species diversity and geographical distribution in Greece is scant. Thus, the aims of this study were to investigate the presence of Cercopithifilaria spp. in dogs and ticks across Greece and to assess the possible risk factors. A total of 500 skin biopsies were collected from dogs, while 508 ticks were collected from 180 infested animals and examined. Sediments from skin biopsies were microscopically screened for detection of dermal microfilaria (mfs). Skin samples (n = 115) and tick specimens (n = 153) were molecularly subjected by PCR. Overall, 70 samples (14%) scored positive for mfs. Specifically, 68 samples (13.6%) were positive for Cercopithifilaria bainae and two (0.4%) were co-infected with C. bainae and Cercopithifilaria sp. II. Molecular analyses revealed that all sequences obtained belong to C. bainae. Haplotype I was the most frequent (92.6%), followed by haplotype XVIII (3%) and haplotypes II and IX (1.5%). Three new haplotypes of C. bainae, named XIX, XX, and XXI, were also identified. Among the risk factors examined, habitat, dog use, body weight, tick infestation history, and the use of acaricides were associated with the presence of C. bainae. The estimated prevalence of Cercopithifilaria spp. demonstrates that these filarioids are common in dogs and ticks in Greece. Finally, the identification of 7 haplotypes for C. bainae confirms their genetic variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Angelou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, University Campus, GR 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Giada Annoscia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Isaia Symeonidou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, University Campus, GR 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandros Theodoridis
- Laboratory of Animal Production Economics, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Zoe S Polizopoulou
- Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy.,Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Felestin Sq., Hamedan, Iran
| | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, University Campus, GR 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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20
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Kostopoulou D, Gizzarelli M, Ligda P, Foglia Manzillo V, Saratsi K, Montagnaro S, Schunack B, Boegel A, Pollmeier M, Oliva G, Sotiraki S. Mapping the canine vector-borne disease risk in a Mediterranean area. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:282. [PMID: 32493470 PMCID: PMC7268178 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04153-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to determine exposure to vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in populations of dogs living on Greek islands in the Ionian and Aegean seas. Methods In total, 1154 dogs with different lifestyles and of varying ages and breeds were randomly sampled and examined for the presence of clinical signs compatible with canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs). Blood was collected from each individual animal. For the detection of antibodies against Leishmania spp., the WITNESS® Leishmania test was performed, and positive samples were further examined with indirect enzymatic immunoassay (ELISA). Antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis or E. ewingii, as well as Anaplasma phagocytophilum or A. platys were investigated using the Snap® 4Dx® Plus test. Positive Ehrlichia spp. and Anaplasma spp. samples were further examined using an indirect ELISA for further identification of the species. Results In total, 25.6% of dogs were exposed to at least one of the pathogens investigated, with seroprevalences varying regionally. Of these seropositive dogs, 27.4% displayed clinical signs suggestive of CVBDs, such as cutaneous lesions, enlarged lymph nodes, pale mucous membranes, onychogryphosis and weight loss. The overall seroprevalence detected using the rapid tests was 15.3% for Leishmania spp., whereas 2.3% of the examined dogs were found to be positive for Anaplasma spp. and 7.5% for Ehrlichia spp. while B. burgdorferi was not detected. Twenty-four samples positive to A. phagocytophilum by ELISA were analysed by PCR for the presence of Anaplasma DNA. PCR and sequencing results showed the presence of A. platys DNA in 4 samples and E. canis DNA in 4 samples. The remaining samples (66.7%) were negative. Conclusions In the present study, exposure of dogs to VBPs was shown in the geographical areas investigated. Results confirm that on Greek islands VBPs represent a constant health risk for both native and visiting dogs, suggesting the presence of distinct “hot-spots” of VBP infections on different islands. In order to reduce the risk of transmission and the spread to non-endemic regions, the protection of dogs through use of repellents and vaccines, together with owner education, seem to be of paramount importance.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Despoina Kostopoulou
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, 57001, Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Manuela Gizzarelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Panagiota Ligda
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, 57001, Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Valentina Foglia Manzillo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Katerina Saratsi
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, 57001, Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Serena Montagnaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Gaetano Oliva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137, Naples, Italy.
| | - Smaragda Sotiraki
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, 57001, Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Panarese R, Iatta R, Latrofa MS, Zatelli A, Ćupina AI, Montarsi F, Pombi M, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Beugnet F, Otranto D. Hyperendemic Dirofilaria immitis infection in a sheltered dog population: an expanding threat in the Mediterranean region. Int J Parasitol 2020; 50:555-559. [PMID: 32479831 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
A study on the occurrence of Dirofilaria immitis and its vectors was carried out in order to assess the prevalence of the disease in dogs in previously non-endemic areas of southern Italy. Blood samples (n = 385) and mosquitoes (n = 1540) were collected in two dog shelters and analysed by Knott's test and duplex real-time PCR, respectively. Dirofilaria immitis was the most prevalent filarioid (44.2%), while Culex pipiens was the most prevalent mosquito species (68.8%). This high prevalence of D. immitis infection confirms this location as one of the most hyperendemic foci of dirofilariosis in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Panarese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Zatelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Montarsi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro PD, Italy
| | - Marco Pombi
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Università di Roma "Sapienza", Roma, Italy
| | | | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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22
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Diakou A, Dimzas D, Astaras C, Savvas I, Di Cesare A, Morelli S, Neofitos Κ, Migli D, Traversa D. Clinical investigations and treatment outcome in a European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) infected by cardio-pulmonary nematodes. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 19:100357. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Seroprevalences of Rickettsia conorii, Ehrlichia canis and Coxiella burnetii in Dogs from Montenegro. Acta Parasitol 2019; 64:769-778. [PMID: 31286358 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-019-00098-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The incidence of vector-borne zoonoses has been increasing in Europe as a result of global climate change, and rickettsioses are a significant etiologic entity among these infections. The objective of this study was to investigate the seroprevalences of Rickettsia conorii, Ehrlichia canis and Coxiella burnetii in dogs in Montenegro. METHODS The seroepidemiological study covered 259 dogs, of which 155 were owned dogs suspected of infection with agents of rickettsial aetiology from the continental (Podgorica) or five coastal municipalities of Montenegro (Budva, Herceg Novi, Kotor, Ulcinj and Bar), and 104 dogs were from a public shelter in Podgorica. The presence of specific IgG antibodies against R. conorii was analysed using a commercial indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test, and the presence of antibodies against E. canis and C. burnetii was analysed using commercial indirect immunofluorescence tests (IFAT). RESULTS Seroprevalences of 73.36, 19.3 and 1.16% were determined for R. conorii, E. canis and C. burnetii, respectively. R. conorii was significantly more prevalent (χ2 = 14.53; p < 0.001) in owned dogs (81.93%) than in dogs from the public shelter (60.6%), while E. canis was more prevalent (χ2 = 12.31; p < 0.001) in dogs from the public shelter (29.81%) than in owned dogs (12.26%). Coinfection with two pathogens was determined in 40 (15.44%) dogs, and the prevalence of R. conorii/E. canis (χ2 = 4.23; p < 0.05) was greater in dogs from the public shelter (20.19%) than in owned dogs (10.97%). CONCLUSION The prevailing evidence from this study shows that dogs from Montenegro are exposed to pathogens of veterinary and public health importance. This calls for the One Health approach to sensitise the public on the risks of zoonoses from dogs and to formulate policies and strategies to mitigate their spread and safeguard public health.
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Kebbi R, Nait-Mouloud M, Hassissen L, Ayad A. Seasonal activity of ticks infesting domestic dogs in Bejaia province, Northern Algeria. Onderstepoort J Vet Res 2019; 86:e1-e6. [PMID: 31714138 PMCID: PMC6852545 DOI: 10.4102/ojvr.v86i1.1755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
This epidemiological study aimed to determine the species of tick infestation in dogs, their prevalence and dynamic in the Bejaia province, northeastern Algeria. A total of 631 dogs were examined from different localities of the Bejaia province between March 2016 and February 2017. Of the 631 examined dogs, 15% were infested with one or more tick species. A total of 339 adult ticks were collected and identified, including 199 male tick species and 140 female tick species. Our results revealed that most of these were Rhipicephalus species, with Rhipicephalus sanguineus (51.32%) being the most prevalent followed by Rhipicephalus bursa (35.1%) and Rhipicephalus turanicus (12.98%). Ixodes ricinus represented only 0.6% of all ticks collected. The highest infested seasons were spring (22.55%) and summer (22.54%) and the lowest infested seasons were autumn (8.62%) and winter ( 0.9%). There is no significant difference between the sex of the animal and the prevalence of infestation (p = 0.837). Also, the prevalence of infestation by ticks in young animals was higher than that in adult animals (p = 0.550). A significant difference between the prevalence of infestation and animal breed was observed (p = 0.042). This study is the first epidemiological investigation conducted on the prevalence of hard ticks infesting domestic dogs in Bejaia (northeastern Algeria) based on conventional methods. It is therefore necessary to implement an effective tick control strategy during infestation periods in order to prevent vector-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Kebbi
- Department of Environment Biological Sciences, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Bejaia, Bejaia.
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Angelou A, Gelasakis AI, Verde N, Pantchev N, Schaper R, Chandrashekar R, Papadopoulos E. Prevalence and risk factors for selected canine vector-borne diseases in Greece. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:283. [PMID: 31159843 PMCID: PMC6547445 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3543-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) represent a wide group of diseases of major significance for canine health. In addition to their veterinary importance, many of these diseases are of great zoonotic concern, posing a risk of potential transmission to humans. To date, there has been scant knowledge regarding the prevalence, distribution and risk factors of CVBDs in Greece. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to update the current knowledge on the seroprevalence of Dirofilaria immitis, Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp. and Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato) in dogs in Greece and, furthermore, to assess possible environmental and any other risk factors associated with these infections. A total of 1000 apparently healthy and randomly selected dogs, presented in veterinary clinics, were involved at the national level (n = 66 municipalities). Serum samples were obtained from each individual dog and were tested using the SNAP® 4Dx® Plus kit from IDEXX Laboratories. Possible risk factors were assessed using binary regression models, including dogs’ lifestyle, climatological parameters and the altitude of the region. Results Overall, 21.8% (95% CI: 19.4–24.5%) of the sampled dogs were found to be seropositive to at least one of the four pathogens examined. The most prevalent pathogen was Ehrlichia spp. (12.5%, 95% CI: 10.6–14.7) followed by D. immitis (9.0%, 95% CI: 7.8–11.5) and Anaplasma spp. (6.2%, 95% CI: 4.9–7.9). The lowest prevalence (0.1%) was recorded for B. burgdorferi (s.l.) where only one dog was found to be positive. Among the examined risk factors, low mean temperature was found to increase the prevalence of Ehrlichia spp. (P ≤ 0.001) and Anaplasma spp. (P ≤ 0.001), while low minimum temperature increased the prevalence of D. immitis (P ≤ 0.001). In addition, low total annual rainfall had an effect of the prevalence of Ehrlichia spp. (P ≤ 0.01). Altitude also had a significant effect on the prevalence of D. immitis (P ≤ 0.05) and Anaplasma spp. (P ≤ 0.01). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first large-scale seroepidemiological study of CVBDs in Greece. It has been evidenced that environmental factors such as temperature, rainfall and altitude can influence the prevalence and distribution of CVBDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Angelou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios I Gelasakis
- Laboratory of Farm Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, School of Agricultural Production, Infrastructure and Environment, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855, Iera Odos, Greece
| | - Natalia Verde
- Laboratory of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, Department of Cadastre, Photogrammetry and Cartography, Faculty of Rural and Surveying Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Krčmar S. Diversity, ecology, and seasonality of hard ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) in eastern Croatia. JOURNAL OF VECTOR ECOLOGY : JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR VECTOR ECOLOGY 2019; 44:18-29. [PMID: 31124224 DOI: 10.1111/jvec.12325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The diversity of hard tick fauna was studied in different forest communities in 48 localities of eastern Croatia using the dragging-flagging method and by hand from ten different vertebrate hosts. A total of 2,225 specimens comprising seven species in three genera were identified. Ixodes ricinus, the most abundant species (72.8% of all collected specimens) was recorded in 44 localities, followed by Dermacentor reticulatus in 19 localities, while the other five species (D. marginatus, H. concinna, H. inermis, I. canisuga, and I. hexagonus) were recorded in fewer localities. The highest ratio (67% of collected ticks) was in the adult stage with the predominance of females. The numbers of collected females, males, and nymphs of I. ricinus and H. concinna differed significantly. Ten new tick-host associations in Croatia were recorded. Fifty-three animals were infested with one tick species. Single species infestation with I. ricinus was found in 45.8% of animals, followed by D. reticulatus with 25.4%, D. marginatus with 10.2%, H. inermis and I. hexagonus with 3.4%, and I. canisuga with 1.7%. Coinfestation with two species of ticks were recorded in six animals. Ixodes ricinus, H. inermis, and D. reticulatus showed bimodal seasonal activity; for other species unimodal activity patterns were recorded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stjepan Krčmar
- Department of Biology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Cara Hadrijana 8/A, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia
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Diakou A, Di Cesare A, Morelli S, Colombo M, Halos L, Simonato G, Tamvakis A, Beugnet F, Paoletti B, Traversa D. Endoparasites and vector-borne pathogens in dogs from Greek islands: Pathogen distribution and zoonotic implications. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007003. [PMID: 31067231 PMCID: PMC6527238 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the presence of endo- and ecto-parasites, and vector-borne pathogens, in dogs from four islands of Greece. A total of 200 (123 owned and 77 sheltered) dogs were examined with different microscopic, serological and molecular methods. Of the examined dogs, 130 (65%) were positive for one or more parasites and/or vector-borne pathogens. The most common zoonotic intestinal helminths recorded were Ancylostomatidae (12.5%) and Toxocara canis (3.5%). Ninety-three dogs (46.5%) seroreacted to Rickettsia conorii. Twenty-two (11%) of them were also PCR positive and 7 (3.5%) showed corpuscles suggestive of Rickettsia spp. on the blood smears. Nineteen dogs (9.5%) were seropositive for Ehrlichia canis, three of them being also PCR positive. Dogs positive for Anaplasma phagocytophilum-Anaplasma platys (1%), Dirofilaria immitis (0.5%) and Babesia canis (0.5%) were also found. Fleas and ticks were recorded in 53 (26.5%) and 50 (25%) dogs, respectively, and all specimens were identified as Ctenocephalides felis felis and Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato. Binary multiple univariate Generalized Linear Models were used to investigate factors and clinical signs related to the recorded positivity, while the association of specific signs with the pathogens was evaluated using tests of independence. Knowledge of occurrence and impact of zoonotic parasites and vector-borne pathogens in dog populations is crucial to prevent the infection in animals and people, and to control the risk of spreading of these pathogens in endemic and non-endemic areas. Both owned and sheltered dogs can harbor a variety of intestinal and extra-intestinal endoparasites, as well as vector-borne pathogens and ectoparasites, of zoonotic concern. Dog shelters and stray dogs are present in several touristic areas of Greece, including Sporades and Cyclades islands, where tourists often bring their pets with them, likely travelling from non-endemic to endemic areas. The present study has been carried out with the aim to evaluate the occurrence of the aforementioned pathogens. Data obtained showed that they are present in canine populations of Greece, with possibilities of infection for travelling dogs, which can also contribute to the spreading of zoonotic vector-borne diseases, introducing new pathogens in previously non-endemic areas. For these reasons, a constant monitoring of the epidemiological situation, improving control measures and correct diagnostic approaches are of primary importance for the prevention of canine and human infections, decreasing the spreading of potentially deadly pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
| | - Mariasole Colombo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
| | - Lenaig Halos
- Boehringer-Ingelheim Animal Health, Lyon, France
| | - Giulia Simonato
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università, Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Androniki Tamvakis
- Laboratory of Ecology and System Dynamics, Department of Marine Sciences, University of the Aegean Mytilene, Lesvos, Greece
| | | | - Barbara Paoletti
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Vila A, Estrada-Peña A, Altet L, Cusco A, Dandreano S, Francino O, Halos L, Roura X. Endosymbionts carried by ticks feeding on dogs in Spain. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2019; 10:848-852. [PMID: 31006611 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Studies on tick microbial communities historically focused on tick-borne pathogens. However, there is an increasing interest in capturing relationships among non-pathogenic endosymbionts and exploring their relevance for tick biology. The present study included a total of 1600 adult ticks collected from domestic dogs in 4 different biogeographical regions of Spain. Each pool formed by 1 to 10 halves of individuals representing one specific ticks species was examined by PCR for the presence of Coxiellaceae, Rickettsia spp., Rickettsiales, Wolbachia spp., and other bacterial DNA. Of the pools analyzed, 92% tested positive for endosymbiont-derived DNA. Coxiella spp. endosymbionts were the most prevalent microorganisms, being always present in Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) pools. Rickettsia spp. DNA was detected in 60% of Dermacentor reticulatus pools and 40% of R. sanguineus s.l. pools, with a higher diversity of Rickettsia species in R. sanguineus s.l. pools. Our study reveals a negative relationship of Rickettsia massiliae with the presence of tick-borne pathogens in the same pool of ticks. An additional endosymbiont, 'Candidatus Rickettsiella isopodorum', was only detected in D. reticulatus pools. Data from this study indicate that dogs in Spain are exposed to several endosymbionts. Due to the importance of tick-borne pathogens, characterizing the role of endosymbionts for tick physiology and prevalence, may lead to novel control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Vila
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.
| | - A Estrada-Peña
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - L Altet
- Vetgenomics, Edifici Eureka, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - A Cusco
- Vetgenomics, Edifici Eureka, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - S Dandreano
- Vetgenomics, Edifici Eureka, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - O Francino
- Molecular Genetics Veterinary Service, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - L Halos
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Lyon, France
| | - X Roura
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
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Costa PL, Brazil RP, Fuzari AA, Latrofa MS, Annoscia G, Tarallo VD, Capelli G, Otranto D, Brandão-Filho SP, Dantas-Torres F. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses of Lutzomyia migonei from three Brazilian states. Acta Trop 2018; 187:144-150. [PMID: 30063885 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Lutzomyia migonei is incriminated as a vector of Leishmania braziliensis, the main causative agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Brazil. Recently, this phlebotomine sand fly species has been suggested as a vector for Leishmania infantum, which causes zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis. Considering the widespread distribution of Lu. migonei in South America, the existence of isolated populations has been hypothesized. Three Lu. migonei populations, two from north-eastern Brazil (Machados, Pernambuco State, and Baturité, Ceará State) and other from the south-eastern region (Niterói, Rio de Janeiro State) were analysed both morphologically and genetically. Though no significant morphological differences were found amongst the sand fly specimens analysed, discriminant analysis based on specific morphometric characters (i.e., length of wing, antennal segment 3 and coxite for males, and length of wing and antennal segment 3 for females), showed that specimens from Machados were closer to Baturité than to Niterói. The molecular analysis of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene sequences also supported this observation by the distinct separation of two monophyletic clades, grouping specimens from Machados and Baturité separately from those of Niterói. Our results suggest the existence of different populations within the distribution range of Lu. migonei. Whether these populations are reproductively isolated and/or present differences in terms of vector competence/capacity for L. braziliensis and L. infantum needs to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietra Lemos Costa
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | | | - Maria Stefania Latrofa
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Giada Annoscia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Viviana Domenica Tarallo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Gioia Capelli
- Laboratorio di Parassitologia, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Filipe Dantas-Torres
- Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil; Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", Valenzano, Bari, Italy.
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Maurelli MP, Pepe P, Colombo L, Armstrong R, Battisti E, Morgoglione ME, Counturis D, Rinaldi L, Cringoli G, Ferroglio E, Zanet S. A national survey of Ixodidae ticks on privately owned dogs in Italy. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:420. [PMID: 30012202 PMCID: PMC6048866 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2994-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The geographical distribution of ticks on companion animals needs to be monitored to develop and plan effective control measures, as suggested by the European Scientific Counsel on Companion Animal Parasites. The aim of this study was to conduct the first Italian national survey of tick distribution on privately owned dogs. METHODS The study was performed over 20 months (February 2016 - September 2017) and involved 153 veterinary practices in 64 different provinces covering 17/20 (85%) Italian regions. Participating practitioners were asked to examine five different dogs per month at random and complete a questionnaire for each dog. Differences in tick infestation associated with: sex, age and hair length (long and short); the dog's habitat (indoor or outdoor/kennel); and the dog's environment (urban or rural/sylvatic) were evaluated. The attachment site of ticks on the dog was also recorded. Acaricide efficacy was evaluated for the subset of dogs for which complete information on product used, date of sampling and date of last ectoparasiticide treatment was available. RESULTS Of the 3026 dogs examined, 1383 (45.7%) were carrying at least one tick. Overall, 2439 tick samples were collected and a total of 14 tick species identified. Rhipicephalus sanguineus group were the most predominant ticks (63.6%), followed by Ixodes ricinus (30.6%) and I. hexagonus (5.6%). Twenty-four dogs had mixed tick infestations. Long-haired dogs had a higher tick infestation risk as did dogs with outdoor and rural/sylvatic lifestyles. Ticks were located on the head (37.4%), the neck (28.8%), the muzzle (15.5%) and the back (15.3%). A higher prevalence of Rhipicephalus was found in the interdigital spaces (10.8%) compared to Ixodes (0.2%). Finally, ectoparasiticide treatments were found significantly protective against tick infestation, especially orally administered formulations. CONCLUSIONS Privately owned dogs in Italy have a high prevalence (45.7%) of infestation with ixodid ticks and this risk varies by dog phenotype and lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Paola Maurelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Pepe
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Elena Battisti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Morgoglione
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cringoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ezio Ferroglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Stefania Zanet
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Rubel F, Brugger K, Walter M, Vogelgesang JR, Didyk YM, Fu S, Kahl O. Geographical distribution, climate adaptation and vector competence of the Eurasian hard tick Haemaphysalis concinna. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 9:1080-1089. [PMID: 29678401 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The ixodid tick Haemaphysalis concinna Koch, 1844 is a proven vector of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) virus and Francisella tularensis, the causative agent of tularaemia. In the present study, up-to-date maps depicting the geographical distribution and climate adaptation of H. concinna are presented. A dataset was compiled, resulting in 656 georeferenced locations in Eurasia. The distribution of H. concinna ranges from the Spanish Atlantic coast to Kamchatka, Russia, within the belt of 28-64° N latitude. H. concinna is the second most abundant tick species after Ixodes ricinus collected from birds, and third most abundant tick species flagged from vegetation in Central Europe. To investigate the climate adaptation of H. concinna, the georeferenced locations were superimposed on a high-resolution map of the Köppen-Geiger climate classification. A frequency distribution of the H. concinna occurrence under different climates shows three peaks related to the following climates: warm temperate with precipitation all year round, boreal with precipitation all year round and boreal, winter dry. Almost 87.3 % of all H. concinna locations collected are related to these climates. Thus, H. concinna prefers climates with a warm and moist summer. The remaining tick locations were characterized as cold steppes (6.2%), cold deserts (0.8%), Mediterranean climates (2.7%) or warm temperate climates with dry winter (2.9%). In those latter climates H. concinna occurs only sporadically, provided the microclimate is favourable. Beyond proven vector competence pathogen findings in questing H. concinna are compiled from the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz Rubel
- Institute for Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Austria.
| | - Katharina Brugger
- Institute for Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Austria
| | - Melanie Walter
- Institute for Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Austria
| | - Janna R Vogelgesang
- Institute for Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Austria
| | - Yuliya M Didyk
- Department of Acarology, Institute of Zoology, NAS of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Su Fu
- Eye Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Baxarias M, Álvarez-Fernández A, Martínez-Orellana P, Montserrat-Sangrà S, Ordeix L, Rojas A, Nachum-Biala Y, Baneth G, Solano-Gallego L. Does co-infection with vector-borne pathogens play a role in clinical canine leishmaniosis? Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:135. [PMID: 29554918 PMCID: PMC5859550 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2724-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The severity of canine leishmaniosis (CanL) due to Leishmania infantum might be affected by other vector-borne organisms that mimic its clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities. The aim of this study was to determine co-infections with other vector-borne pathogens based on serological and molecular techniques in dogs with clinical leishmaniosis living in Spain and to associate them with clinical signs and clinicopathological abnormalities as well as disease severity. METHODS Sixty-one dogs with clinical leishmaniosis and 16 apparently healthy dogs were tested for Rickettsia conorii, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Bartonella henselae antigens by the immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and for E. canis, Anaplasma spp., Hepatozoon spp., Babesia spp. and filarioid DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS Among the dogs examined by IFAT, the seroprevalences were: 69% for R. conorii, 57% for E. canis, 44% for A. phagocytophilum and 37% for B. henselae; while the prevalences found by PCR were: 8% for Ehrlichia/Anaplasma, 3% for Anaplasma platys and 1% for H. canis. No other pathogen DNA was detected. Statistical association was found between dogs with clinical leishmaniosis and seroreactivity to R. conorii antigen (Fisher's exact test: P = 0.025, OR = 4.1, 95% CI = 1-17) and A. phagocytophilum antigen (Fisher's exact test: P = 0.002, OR = 14.3, 95% CI = 2-626) and being positive to more than one serological or molecular tests (co-infections) (Mann-Whitney test: U = 243, Z = -2.6, n 1 = 14, n 2 = 61, P = 0.01) when compared with healthy dogs. Interestingly, a statistical association was found between the presence of R. conorii, E. canis, A. phagocytophilum and B. henselae antibodies in sick dogs and some clinicopathological abnormalities such as albumin and albumin/globulin ratio decrease and increase in serum globulins. Furthermore, seroreactivity with A. phagocytophilum antigens was statistically associated with CanL clinical stages III and IV. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that dogs with clinical leishmaniosis from Catalonia (Spain) have a higher rate of co-infections with other vector-borne pathogens when compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, positivity to some vector-borne pathogens was associated with more marked clinicopathological abnormalities as well as disease severity with CanL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baxarias
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Alejandra Álvarez-Fernández
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Pamela Martínez-Orellana
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Sara Montserrat-Sangrà
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Laura Ordeix
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Alicia Rojas
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Gad Baneth
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.
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