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Matos CA, Nomboro CF, Gonçalves LR, Cala AC, Sitoe CF, Vinte APR, Mondlane CM, André MR, do Carmo Carrilho M. Molecular diagnosis and characterization of Anaplasma marginale and Ehrlichia ruminantium infecting beef cattle of Maputo Province, Mozambique. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:185. [PMID: 38730389 PMCID: PMC11084066 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04045-4] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Members of the Anaplasmataceae family, such as the Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species, cause economic losses and public health risks. However, the exact economic impact has not been comprehensively assessed in Mozambique due to limited data available on its basic epidemiology. Therefore, we investigated the molecular occurrence and identity of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia spp. infecting beef cattle in Maputo province, Mozambique. METHODS A total of 200 whole blood samples were collected from apparently healthy beef cattle. Whole blood DNA was extracted and tested for presence of Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia ruminantium DNA through amplification of the 16S rRNA and map1 genes. Positive samples to Anaplasma spp. were subject to PCR assay targeting the A. marginale-msp5 gene. Amplicons obtained were purified, sequenced and subject to phylogenetic analyses. RESULTS Anaplasma spp., A. marginale and E. ruminantium were detected in 153 (76.5%), 142 (71%) and 19 (9.5%) of all the samples analyzed, respectively. On this same sample group, 19 (9.5%) were co-infected with A. marginale and E. ruminantium. The 16S rRNA sequences of Anaplasma spp. obtained were phylogenetically related to A. marginale, A. centrale and A. platys. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that A. marginale-msp5 nucleotide sequences were grouped with sequences from Asia, Africa and Latin America, whereas E. ruminantium-map1 DNA nucleotide sequences were positioned in multiple clusters. CONCLUSION Cattle in Maputo Province are reservoirs for multiple Anaplasma species. A high positivity rate of infection by A. marginale was observed, as well as high genetic diversity of E. ruminantium. Furthermore, five new genotypes of E. ruminantium-map1 were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos António Matos
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Direcção de Ciências Animais, Avenida de Moçambique, km 1.5, Bairro do Jardim, Cidade de Maputo, C.P. 1922 , Moçambique.
| | | | | | - Aida Cristina Cala
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Direcção de Ciências Animais, Avenida de Moçambique, km 1.5, Bairro do Jardim, Cidade de Maputo, C.P. 1922 , Moçambique
| | - Carlos Francisco Sitoe
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Direcção de Ciências Animais, Avenida de Moçambique, km 1.5, Bairro do Jardim, Cidade de Maputo, C.P. 1922 , Moçambique
| | - Ana Paula Rúpia Vinte
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Direcção de Ciências Animais, Avenida de Moçambique, km 1.5, Bairro do Jardim, Cidade de Maputo, C.P. 1922 , Moçambique
| | - Cristovão Mario Mondlane
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Direcção de Ciências Animais, Avenida de Moçambique, km 1.5, Bairro do Jardim, Cidade de Maputo, C.P. 1922 , Moçambique
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, Jaboticabal, Jaboticabal, SP, Brasil
| | - Maria do Carmo Carrilho
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Direcção de Ciências Animais, Avenida de Moçambique, km 1.5, Bairro do Jardim, Cidade de Maputo, C.P. 1922 , Moçambique
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Ali S, Ahmad AS, Ashraf K, Khan JA, Imran Rashid M. Rearing of Rhipicephalus annulatus ticks on rabbits for the biological transmission of Anaplasma marginale. Vet World 2024; 17:903-910. [PMID: 38798298 PMCID: PMC11111724 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.903-910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Anaplasma marginale is an obligate intraerythrocytic rickettsial parasite that infects cattle in tropical and subtropical regions. There is no evidence that A. marginale inoculation can be used to culture Rhipicephalus annulatus in rabbits. This study aimed to determine the molting of R. annulatus larvae, nymphs, and adults on rabbits as well as nymphs and adults of R. annulatus on calves with or without A. marginale. Transstadial, horizontal, and transovarial transmissions of A. marginale in R. annulatus reared on rabbits and calves were evaluated. Materials and Methods Engorged female ticks were collected from field samples of A. marginale-infected and non-infected cattle. We divided the eight rabbits into two groups: A and B. Group A rabbits were infected with A. marginale through parenteral inoculation, whereas Group B rabbits were kept as a control. The "clean rabbits" in Group B were observed for tick rearing without A. marginale. Polymerase chain reaction was used to screen A. marginale in rabbits and stages of tick. The complete life cycle of R. annulatus with or without A. marginale was observed on rabbits. Results A 6.5-day longer life cycle was observed in ticks harboring A. marginale than in ticks without A. marginale. To observe transstadial transmission, transstadial, horizontal, and transovarial transmissions of A. marginale in R. annulatus ticks were experimentally observed in one clean calf fed separately with infected nymphs and female adult ticks. Conclusion We experimentally observed transovarian, transstadial, and transovarial transmission of A. marginale in R. annulatus ticks as a biological vector reared on calves and rabbits. We used rabbits as a model animal for rearing R. annulatus ticks and culture of A. marginale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sikandar Ali
- Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah Saghir Ahmad
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur 63100, Pakistan
| | - Kamran Ashraf
- Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Jawaria Ali Khan
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran Rashid
- Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
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Ansah-Owusu J, Addo SO, Tawiah-Mensah CNL, Obuam PK, Malm ROT, Yartey KN, Yanney JN, Torto FA, Accorlor SK, Dadzie SK. Tick-borne pathogens of zoonotic and veterinary importance in cattle ticks in Ghana. Parasitol Res 2023; 123:44. [PMID: 38095712 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08071-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are important vectors involved in the transmission of pathogens of zoonotic and veterinary importance. In this study, ticks were collected from cattle in Navrongo, Kintampo, and Kumasi and screened for pathogen DNA using PCR and Sanger sequencing. A total of 454 ticks were collected, morphologically identified and confirmed using primers that target the 660-bp segment of the mitochondrial COI gene. The predominant tick species was Amblyomma variegatum (70.26%). DNA was extracted from 85 tick pools and screened for the presence of Rickettsia DNA based on the 639 bp of the outer membrane protein A (ompA) gene, Ehrlichia/Anaplasma DNA based on the 345 bp fragment of the 16SrRNA gene and Babesia/ Theileria DNA based on the 560 bp fragment of the ssrRNA gene. From the 85 tick pools, the DNA of pathogens detected were Rickettsia africae (36.47%), Rickettsia aeschlimannii (16.47%), Ehrlichia canis (2.35%), Babesia occultans (1.18%), Theileria velifera (1.18%) and a symbiont Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii (8.24%). This study reports the first molecular detection of Candidatus Cryptoplasma californiense (1.18%) in Ghana. Coinfections were recorded in 8.24% of the tick pools. The findings of this study highlight the importance of tick species in Ghana and the need to adopt effective control measures to prevent pathogen spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Ansah-Owusu
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Seth Offei Addo
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | | | - Patrick Kwasi Obuam
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Richard Odoi-Teye Malm
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kevin Nii Yartey
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Jennifer Nyamekye Yanney
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Francisca Adai Torto
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Stephen Kwabena Accorlor
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Samuel K Dadzie
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
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Molecular survey of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species in livestock ticks from Kassena-Nankana, Ghana; with a first report of Anaplasma capra and Ehrlichia minasensis. Arch Microbiol 2023; 205:92. [PMID: 36795247 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03430-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne pathogens harm livestock production and pose a significant risk to public health. To combat these effects, it is necessary to identify the circulating pathogens to create effective control measures. This study identified Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species in ticks collected from livestock in the Kassena-Nankana Districts between February 2020 and December 2020. A total of 1550 ticks were collected from cattle, sheep and goats. The ticks were morphologically identified, pooled and screened for pathogens using primers that amplify a 345 bp fragment of the 16SrRNA gene and Sanger sequencing. The predominant tick species collected was Amblyomma variegatum (62.98%). From the 491 tick pools screened, 34 (6.92%) were positive for Ehrlichia and Anaplasma. The pathogens identified were Ehrlichia canis (4.28%), Ehrlichia minasensis (1.63%), Anaplasma capra (0.81%) and Anaplasma marginale (0.20%). This study reports the first molecular identification of the above-mentioned Ehrlichia and Anaplasma species in ticks from Ghana. With the association of human infections with the zoonotic pathogen A. capra, livestock owners are at risk of infections, calling for the development of effective control measures.
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Chatanga E, Maganga E, Mohamed WMA, Ogata S, Pandey GS, Abdelbaset AE, Hayashida K, Sugimoto C, Katakura K, Nonaka N, Nakao R. High infection rate of tick-borne protozoan and rickettsial pathogens of cattle in Malawi and the development of a multiplex PCR for Babesia and Theileria species identification. Acta Trop 2022; 231:106413. [PMID: 35307457 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Malawi has an estimated cattle population of 1,884,803 heads, the indigenous Malawi zebu breed accounts for 91.2%, while the exotic and crossbred accounts for the remaining 8.8%. Although ticks and tick-borne diseases are widespread in Malawi, no molecular study has been conducted to investigate the tick-borne Anaplasmataceae and piroplasms infecting cattle. To provide an insight into the current status of tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) of cattle, a molecular survey was conducted in the central and southern regions of Malawi. A total of 191 cattle of which 132 were Malawi zebu, 44 were Holstein Friesian and 15 were Holstein-Friesian/ Malawi zebu crosses were screened for Anaplasmataceae and piroplasms using the heat shock protein groEL gene and 18S rDNA, respectively. A new 18S rDNA multiplex PCR assay was designed for Babesia and Theileria species identification without sequencing. Overall, 92.3% (n = 177) of the examined animals were infected with at least one TBP. Anaplasmataceae-positive rate was 57.6% (n = 110) while for piroplasms it was 80.1% (n = 153). The detected Anaplasmataceae were Anaplasma bovis 2.6% (n = 5), Anaplasma marginale 24.6% (n = 47), Anaplasma platys-like 13.6% (n = 26), uncharacterized Anaplasma sp. 14.1% (n = 27), and uncharacterized Ehrlichia sp. 16.2% (n = 31). The detected piroplasms were Babesia bigemina 2.6% (n = 5), Theileria mutans 73.8% (n = 141), Theileria parva 33.0% (n = 63), Theileria taurotragi 12.6% (n = 24), and Theileria velifera 53.4% (n = 102). Mixed infection rate was found in 79.6% (n = 152) of the samples analyzed. This study has shown a high burden of TBPs among cattle in Malawi which highlights the need to conceive new methods to control ticks and TBPs in order to improve animal health and productivity. The newly developed multiplex PCR assay would be a useful tool especially in resource limited settings where sequencing is not available and when mixed infections are expected.
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Tazawa K, Poolsawat N, Gibson AD, Gamble L, King A, Anuracpreeda P. First study on molecular detection of three major canine tick-borne pathogens in subclinically infected dogs in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Vet World 2022; 15:1121-1128. [PMID: 35698525 PMCID: PMC9178580 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1121-1128] [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: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Canine tick-borne pathogens (CTBPs) are an important cause of morbidity in dogs in Thailand. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of three CTBPs in clinically normal, owned dogs to understand the risk for the general canine population. We also examined sex, age, tick infestation, and packed cell volume (PCV) of the animals in association with active infection of the CTBPs. Materials and Methods: A total of 139 dogs were included in the study. Blood samples were collected for thin blood smear, PCV and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Statistical analyses were performed to examine the association between individual factors and CTBP infection status determined by PCR. In addition, sensitivity, specificity, and Cohen’s kappa were calculated to assess the utility of routine blood smear. Results: The PCR results showed that 31 dogs (22.3%) were infected with at least one of the three pathogens. The occurrence rate for Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys, and Hepatozoon canis was 2.2% (3/139), 18.7% (24/139), and 2.8% (4/139), respectively. There were two cases of coinfection with A. platys and E. canis. The univariate analyses did not yield any associations between recorded variables and the active infection. Microscopic examination showed good sensitivity and agreement only for H. canis (Sn: 75%, 95% confidence interval: 24.9-98.7, k=0.85). Conclusion: Our findings confirmed the endemicity of the CTBPs in owned canine population in the study site. In-depth epidemiological investigation would be warranted to elucidate environmental risk factors for CTBP infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiichiro Tazawa
- Worldwide Veterinary Service, Cranborne, Dorset BH21 5PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Napassorn Poolsawat
- Parasitology Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
| | - Andrew D. Gibson
- Worldwide Veterinary Service, Cranborne, Dorset BH21 5PZ, United Kingdom; Mission Rabies, Cranborne, Dorset BH21 5PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Luke Gamble
- Worldwide Veterinary Service, Cranborne, Dorset BH21 5PZ, United Kingdom; Mission Rabies, Cranborne, Dorset BH21 5PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Alasdair King
- Merck Animal Health, Madison, New Jersey 07940, United States
| | - Panat Anuracpreeda
- Parasitology Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
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Basit MA, Ijaz M, Khan JA, Ashraf K, Abbas RZ. Molecular Evidence and Hematological Profile of Bovines Naturally Infected with Ehrlichiosis in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:72-78. [PMID: 34138414 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00433-0] [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: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ehrlichiosis is one of the tick-borne diseases, which is not only neglected in Pakistan but only a few reports have been documented throughout the globe. The purpose of this study is to highlight and report the neglected pathogen from bovines in Pakistan. METHODS In this study, the pathogen was detected initially based on microscopy, followed by the molecular confirmation and phylogenetic analysis of the pathogen from bovines from south Punjab, Pakistan. The hematological parameters were also assessed in Ehrlichia positive and negative animals. The information of different disease determinants was analyzed by a logistic regression model on SPSS. RESULTS The study has reported an 11.98% (23/192) prevalence of Ehrlichiosis from bovines. The prevalence was slightly more in cattle (13.5%) as compared to the buffaloes (10.4%). The previous tick's history and tick control methods were proved to be the key factors with the occurrence of the disease. The isolates from Pakistan Ehrlichia spp. Pakistan/31, 36, and 8 clustered with the isolates from the USA, Nicaraguan, France, South Africa, and Uganda. Platelet count, hemoglobin level, and hematocrit were found significantly decreased in Ehrlichia affected animals when compared to the healthy bovines. CONCLUSION This is the first report of ehrlichiosis from bovines in Pakistan and will provide the roadmap for future research.
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Masika SJ, Muchemi GM, Okumu TA, Mutura S, Zimmerman D, Kamau J. Molecular evidence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in olive baboons and vervet monkeys in Kenya. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:385. [PMID: 34906141 PMCID: PMC8669034 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03095-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nonhuman primates (NHPs) play a significant role in zoonotic spill-overs, serving as either reservoirs, or amplifiers, of multiple neglected tropical diseases, including tick-borne infections. Anaplasma phagocytophilum are obligate intracellular bacteria of the family Anaplasmatacae, transmitted by Ixodid ticks and cause granulocytic anaplasmosis (formerly known as Human Granulocytic Ehrlichiosis (HGE)) in a wide range of wild and domestic mammals and humans too. The aim of this study was to determine whether Anaplasma phagocytophilum was circulating in olive baboons and vervet monkeys in Laikipia County, Kenya. Results Some 146 blood samples collected from olive baboons and 18 from vervet monkeys from Mpala Research Center and Ol jogi Conservancy in Laikipia County were screened for the presence of Anaplasma species using conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and then A. phagocytophilum was confirmed by sequencing using conventional PCR targeting 16S rRNA. This study found an overall prevalence of 18.3% for Anaplasma species. DNA sequences confirmed Anaplasma phagocytophilum in olive baboons for the first time in Kenya. Conclusion This study provides valuable information on the endemicity of A. phagocytophilum bacteria in olive baboons in Kenya. Future research is needed to establish the prevalence and public health implications of zoonotic A. phagocytophilum isolates and the role of nonhuman primates as reservoirs in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Jerusa Masika
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya. .,Molecular biology laboratory, Institute of Primate Research, Nairobi Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Gerald Mwangi Muchemi
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Tequiero Abuom Okumu
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samson Mutura
- Molecular biology laboratory, Institute of Primate Research, Nairobi Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Dawn Zimmerman
- Global Health Program, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Disease, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joseph Kamau
- Molecular biology laboratory, Institute of Primate Research, Nairobi Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
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Peter SG, Kariuki HW, Aboge GO, Gakuya DW, Maingi N, Mulei CM. Prevalence of Ticks Infesting Dairy Cattle and the Pathogens They Harbour in Smallholder Farms in Peri-Urban Areas of Nairobi, Kenya. Vet Med Int 2021; 2021:9501648. [PMID: 34925753 PMCID: PMC8683169 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9501648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at determining the tick species infesting dairy cattle in Nairobi, Kenya, and the pathogens they harbour. While ticks are well-known vectors of major bacterial pathogens of both veterinary importance and public health importance, few studies have investigated the range of the tick species and the associated pathogens, especially present in unique dairy production systems, which compromise animal welfare, such as those in peri-urban areas. A cross-sectional study was undertaken involving 314 randomly selected dairy cattle in 109 smallholder farms. Each animal was examined for attached ticks followed by morphological tick identification at the species level. Genomic DNA was extracted from each of the ticks, and 16S rDNA gene was amplified for pathogen identification. Sequencing of the amplicons and subsequent BLASTn analysis, multiple sequence alignment, and phylogenetic reconstruction were performed to confirm the species of the pathogens. Sixty-six (21.0%) of the cattle examined had ticks. A total of 94 adult ticks were found on the cattle, and of these, 63 (67.0%), 18 (19.1%), and 13 (13.8%) were in the genera Rhipicephalus, Amblyomma, and Hyalomma, respectively. Twelve tick species in Rhipicephalus genus and two in Amblyomma and Hyalomma genera were identified. Although Rh. decoloratus was the most prevalent tick (24.5% (23/94)), the emerging Rh. microplus (6.4% (6/94)) was also identified. The DNA of Rickettsia was detected in the ticks, with Rickettsia conorii in H. rufipes and A. variegatum, and Rickettsia aeschlimannii in Rh. microplus and H. rufipes, while Ehrlichia ruminantium and E. canis were in A. variegatum. In conclusion, the study reported a wide range of tick species present in the study area including Rhipicephalus microplus, which is an emerging tick species in parts of Kenya. The ticks harboured DNA of Rickettsia and Ehrlichia, highlighting possible animal and human health concerns. Hence, effective tick control strategies remain paramount to prevent potential diseases associated with the harboured pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shepelo Getrude Peter
- Department of Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hellen Wambui Kariuki
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 19676-00202, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Gabriel Oluga Aboge
- Department of Public Health Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel Waweru Gakuya
- Department of Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ndichu Maingi
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Charles Matiku Mulei
- Department of Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
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Zhai J, Wu Y, Chen J, Zou J, Shan F, Li W, Chen W, Zhou N. Identification of Amblyomma javanense and detection of tick-borne Ehrlichia spp. in confiscated Malayan Pangolins. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 14:107-116. [PMID: 33598400 PMCID: PMC7868807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.01.008] [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: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Due to habitat destruction and illegal hunting and trade, the number of pangolins has been sharply reduced. To protect pangolins from extinction, relevant departments are combined and active action have been taken. A total of 21 confiscated Malayan pangolins were rescued in 2019, but died continuously for unknown reasons. This study aimed to investigate the reasons for the death of these pangolin and rescue them. 19 of the 21 confiscated pangolins had ticks on their body integument. A total of 303 ticks were collected and identified as Amblyomma javanense (A. javanense) according to their morphology and the sequences of 16S rRNA and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2). There were multi-organ damages in the dead pangolins, especially congestion and hemorrhage in lung, heart and kidney and inflammation of which were observed using HE staining. Pathogens' nucleic acid detection showed ticks were only positive for Ehrlichia spp, with 56.7% positive rate of collected ticks (127/224), which was further confirmed in tissues from dead pangolins. Our findings confirm that ehrlichiosis caused by Ehrlichia spp. from A. javanense might accelerate the confiscated pangolin's death. More attention should be payed to tick-elimination work and the diagnoses and treatment of tick-borne diseases in the follow-up rescue operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqiong Zhai
- Guangzhou Zoo, Guangzhou, 510070, China
- Wildlife Microbiology Laboratory, Guangzhou Wildlife Research Center, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Yajiang Wu
- Guangzhou Zoo, Guangzhou, 510070, China
- Wildlife Microbiology Laboratory, Guangzhou Wildlife Research Center, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Jinping Chen
- Guangdong Institute of Applied Biological Resources, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Jiejian Zou
- Guangdong Provincial Wildlife Rescue Center, Guangzhou, 510520, China
| | - Fen Shan
- Guangzhou Zoo, Guangzhou, 510070, China
- Wildlife Microbiology Laboratory, Guangzhou Wildlife Research Center, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Wanping Li
- Guangzhou Zoo, Guangzhou, 510070, China
- Wildlife Microbiology Laboratory, Guangzhou Wildlife Research Center, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Wu Chen
- Guangzhou Zoo, Guangzhou, 510070, China
- Wildlife Microbiology Laboratory, Guangzhou Wildlife Research Center, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Niu Zhou
- Guangzhou Zoo, Guangzhou, 510070, China
- Wildlife Microbiology Laboratory, Guangzhou Wildlife Research Center, Guangzhou, 510070, China
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Peter SG, Aboge GO, Kariuki HW, Kanduma EG, Gakuya DW, Maingi N, Mulei CM, Mainga AO. Molecular prevalence of emerging Anaplasma and Ehrlichia pathogens in apparently healthy dairy cattle in peri-urban Nairobi, Kenya. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:364. [PMID: 32993638 PMCID: PMC7526178 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02584-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species are tick-borne pathogens of both veterinary and public health importance. The current status of these pathogens, including emerging species such as Ehrlichia minasensis and Anaplasma platys, infecting cattle in Kenya, remain unclear, mainly because of limitation in the diagnostic techniques. Therefore, we investigated the Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species infecting dairy cattle in Nairobi, Kenya using molecular methods. Results A total of 306 whole blood samples were collected from apparently healthy dairy cattle. Whole blood DNA was extracted and tested for presence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia DNA through amplification and sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene. Sequence identity was confirmed using BLASTn analysis while phylogenetic reconstruction was performed to determine the genetic relationship between the Kenyan isolates and other annotated genotypes available in GenBank. Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species were detected in 19.9 and 3.3% of all the samples analyzed, respectively. BLASTn analysis of the sequences against non-redundant GenBank nucleotide database revealed infections with A. platys (44.8%), A. marginale (31%) and A. bovis (13.8%). All four sequenced Ehrlichia spp. were similar to Ehrlichia minasensis. Nucleotide polymorphism was observed for A. platys, A. bovis and E. minasensis. The Anaplasma species clustered in four distinct phylogenetic clades including A. marginale, A. platys, A. bovis and some unidentified Anaplasma spp. The Kenyan Ehrlichia minasensis clustered in the same clade with isolates from America and Australia but distant from E. ruminantium. Conclusion This study provides the first report of infection of dairy cattle in Kenya with A. platys and E. minasensis, which are emerging pathogens. We conclude that cattle in peri-urban Nairobi are infected with various species of Anaplasma and E. minasensis. To understand the extent of these infections in other parts of the country, large-scale screening studies as well as vector identification is necessary to inform strategic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shepelo Getrude Peter
- Department of Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Gabriel Oluga Aboge
- Department of Public Health Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hellen Wambui Kariuki
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Daniel Waweru Gakuya
- Department of Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ndichu Maingi
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Charles Matiku Mulei
- Department of Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alfred Omwando Mainga
- Department of Public Health Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
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