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Moerbeck L, Parreira R, Szczotko M, Seixas G, Velez R, Dmitryjuk M, Santos AS, Domingos A, Antunes S. Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens Circulating in Peri-Domestic Areas in Mainland Portugal. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1006. [PMID: 38792834 PMCID: PMC11123758 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12051006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the years, tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) have garnered significant interest due to their medical, veterinary and economic importance. Additionally, TBPs have drawn attention to how these microorganisms interact with their own vectors, increasing the risk to human and animal infection of emerging and reemerging zoonoses. In this sense, ticks, which are obligate hematophagous ectoparasites, have a key role in maintaining and transmitting TBPs among humans and animals. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of neglected TBPs in mainland Portugal, namely Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., Ehrlichia spp. and Neoehrlichia mikurensis. DNA fragments were detected in questing ticks collected from five different ecological areas under investigation. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study reports new worldwide findings, including B. bigemina infecting Ixodes frontalis, Ixodes ricinus and Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato. Additionally, it presents new findings in Portugal of N. mikurensis infecting I. ricinus and of presumably Wolbachia endosymbionts being detected in I. ricinus. Overall, there were 208 tick samples that were negative for all screened TBPs. The results herein obtained raise concerns about the circulation of neglected TBPs in mainland Portugal, especially in anthropophilic ticks, highlighting the importance of adopting a One Health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Moerbeck
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.P.); (G.S.); (A.D.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Parreira
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.P.); (G.S.); (A.D.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Szczotko
- Students’ Parasitology “Vermis” Science Club, Department of Medical Biology, Collegium Medicum, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Gonçalo Seixas
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.P.); (G.S.); (A.D.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita Velez
- Centro de Estudos de Vetores e Doenças Infeciosas Dr. Francisco Cambournac, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge (CEVDI-INSA), 2965-575 Águas de Moura, Portugal; (R.V.); (A.S.S.)
| | - Małgorzata Dmitryjuk
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Ana Sofia Santos
- Centro de Estudos de Vetores e Doenças Infeciosas Dr. Francisco Cambournac, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge (CEVDI-INSA), 2965-575 Águas de Moura, Portugal; (R.V.); (A.S.S.)
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Domingos
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.P.); (G.S.); (A.D.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sandra Antunes
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.P.); (G.S.); (A.D.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
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Rosario-Cruz R, Domínguez-García DI, Almazán C, Rosario Dominguez F. A One Health Epidemiological Approach for Understanding Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024. [PMID: 38687338 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The control and prevention of ticks and tick borne diseases (TBDs) is often difficult, since it is necessary to disrupt a complex transmission cycle, involving ticks and vertebrate hosts, which interact in a changing environment, driven by constant environmental and ecological changes. Our view is that factors driving the spread of R. microplus are complex and intrinsically interconnected, something that has often been ignored in control strategies. Results: The aim of this review is to analyze the importance of the epidemiological surveillance of ticks and tick-borne diseases (TTBDs) for Public Health, with the One Health approach; emphasizing the knowledge, importance, and distribution of TTBDs. Conclusions: The key points for surveillance, and raising the scope and limitations of surveillance programs, to delay the emergence of acaricide resistance, to reduce toxic residues in food for human consumption and to protect animal, human, and environmental health, from a One Health perspective will require calling producers, veterinarians, academics, pharmaceutical industry, and decision makers to join efforts in order to mitigate the effects of ticks and TBDs affecting the cattle industry in Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Rosario-Cruz
- Biotechnology in Health and Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autónomous University of Guerrero, Chilpancingo, Guerrero, México
| | - Delia Inés Domínguez-García
- Biotechnology in Health and Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autónomous University of Guerrero, Chilpancingo, Guerrero, México
| | - Consuelo Almazán
- Immunology and Vaccines Laboratory, College of Natural Sciences, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Fernando Rosario Dominguez
- Biotechnology in Health and Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autónomous University of Guerrero, Chilpancingo, Guerrero, México
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O'Neill DG, Komutrattananon R, Church DB, Hartley AN, Brodbelt DC. The epidemiology of tick infestation in dog breeds in the UK. J Small Anim Pract 2024. [PMID: 38653546 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to report the prevalence and risk factors for tick infestation in dogs in the UK based on anonymised electronic patient records. MATERIALS AND METHODS Clinical records of dogs under veterinary care in 2016 at clinics participating in the VetCompass Programme were followed over a 5-year period to identify cases of tick infestation. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression modelling. RESULTS The study included 905,553 dogs. From a random sample, 1903 tick infestation cases were identified. The estimated 5-year (2014 to 2018) period prevalence was 2.03% (95% confidence interval: 2.00 to 2.06). Sixteen breeds showed increased odds compared with non-designer-crossbreed dogs. Breeds with the highest odds included Cairn terrier (odds ratio 2.86, 95% confidence interval 1.64 to 4.98), standard poodle (odds ratio 2.80, 95% confidence interval 1.25 to 6.29) and Goldendoodle (odds ratio 2.63, 95% confidence interval 1.17 to 5.91). Six breeds showed reduced odds, with lowest odds shown by Staffordshire bull terrier (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.25 to 0.50), Rottweiler (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.15 to 0.85) and Chihuahua (odds ratio 0.38, 95% confidence interval 0.26 to 0.55). Males had 1.24 (95% confidence interval 1.13 to 1.36) times the odds of females. Compared with non-designer-crossbred dogs, designer-crossbreed dogs had increased odds (odds ratio 1.81, 95% confidence interval 1.52 to 2.15). Compared with breeds with short coats, breeds with medium length coats (odds ratio 2.20, 95% confidence interval 1.96 to 2.48) showed increased odds. Breeds with V-shaped drop and pendulous ear carriage had higher odds compared with breeds with erect ear carriage. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE These findings provide an evidence base for veterinary professionals to raise awareness of tick infestation as a preventable disorder in dogs in the UK and to support more effective prevention and therapeutic protocols based on targeted approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - R Komutrattananon
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D B Church
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - A N Hartley
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 7TA, UK
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Rosario-Cruz R, Domínguez-García DI, Almazán C. Inclusion of Anti-Tick Vaccines into an Integrated Tick Management Program in Mexico: A Public Policy Challenge. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:403. [PMID: 38675785 PMCID: PMC11053712 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12040403] [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: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Acaricides are the most widely used method to control the cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus. However, its use increases production costs, contaminates food and the environment, and directly affects animal and human health. The intensive use of chemical control has resulted in the selection of genes associated with resistance to acaricides, and consumers are increasingly less tolerant of food contamination. This scenario has increased the interest of different research groups around the world for anti-tick vaccine development, in order to reduce the environmental impact, the presence of residues in food, and the harmful effects on animal and human health. There is enough evidence that vaccination with tick antigens induces protection against tick infestations, reducing tick populations and acaricide treatments. Despite the need for an anti-tick vaccine in Mexico, vaccination against ticks has been limited to one vaccine that is used in some regions. The aim of this review is to contribute to the discussion on tick control issues and provide a reference for readers interested in the importance of using anti-tick vaccines encouraging concerted action on the part of Mexican animal health authorities, livestock organizations, cattle producers, and academics. Therefore, it is suggested that an anti-tick vaccine should be included as a part of an integrated tick management program in Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Rosario-Cruz
- Biotechnology in Health and Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autónomous Guerrero State University, Chilpancingo 39105, Guerrero, Mexico;
| | - Delia Inés Domínguez-García
- Biotechnology in Health and Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autónomous Guerrero State University, Chilpancingo 39105, Guerrero, Mexico;
| | - Consuelo Almazán
- Immunology and Vaccines Laboratory, College of Natural Sciences, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Santiago de Queretaro 76230, Queretaro, Mexico;
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Oviedo Á, Rodríguez MM, Flores FS, Castro LR. New hard tick (Acari: Ixodidae) reports and detection of Rickettsia in ticks from Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2024; 92:507-528. [PMID: 38485886 PMCID: PMC11035439 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-023-00887-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (SNSM), located in northern Colombia, is considered a geographical island with high levels of biodiversity and endemism. However, little is known about tick species and their associated microorganisms at the SNSM. In this study we sampled host-seeking ticks in areas of the town of Minca within the SNSM. We collected 47 ticks identified as Amblyomma pacae, Amblyomma longirostre, Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma mixtum, Haemaphysalis juxtakochi, Ixodes sp. cf. Ixodes affinis and Ixodes sp. Of these ticks, we tested for Rickettsia spp. by amplifying the gltA, SCA1, and 16S rRNA genes via PCR. Rickettsia amblyommatis was detected in one pool of 3 larvae and in a female of A. pacae. Additonally, we isolated Rickettsia sp. belonging to the group of spotted fevers in larvae of A. longirostre. This study reports new findings of six species of ticks and two species of Rickettsia within the SNSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Oviedo
- Grupo de investigación Evolución, Sistemática y Ecología Molecular (GIESEMOL), Universidad del Magdalena, Santa Marta, Colombia
| | - Miguel M Rodríguez
- Grupo de investigación Evolución, Sistemática y Ecología Molecular (GIESEMOL), Universidad del Magdalena, Santa Marta, Colombia
| | - Fernando S Flores
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (IIByT), Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones Entomológicas de Córdoba (CIEC), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Lyda R Castro
- Grupo de investigación Evolución, Sistemática y Ecología Molecular (GIESEMOL), Universidad del Magdalena, Santa Marta, Colombia.
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Arsevska E, Hengl T, Singleton DA, Noble PJM, Caminade C, Eneanya OA, Jones PH, Medlock JM, Hansford KM, Bonannella C, Radford AD. Risk factors for tick attachment in companion animals in Great Britain: a spatiotemporal analysis covering 2014-2021. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:29. [PMID: 38254168 PMCID: PMC10804489 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06094-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ticks are an important driver of veterinary health care, causing irritation and sometimes infection to their hosts. We explored epidemiological and geo-referenced data from > 7 million electronic health records (EHRs) from cats and dogs collected by the Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network (SAVSNET) in Great Britain (GB) between 2014 and 2021 to assess the factors affecting tick attachment in an individual and at a spatiotemporal level. METHODS EHRs in which ticks were mentioned were identified by text mining; domain experts confirmed those with ticks on the animal. Tick presence/absence records were overlaid with a spatiotemporal series of climate, environment, anthropogenic and host distribution factors to produce a spatiotemporal regression matrix. An ensemble machine learning spatiotemporal model was used to fine-tune hyperparameters for Random Forest, Gradient-boosted Trees and Generalized Linear Model regression algorithms, which were then used to produce a final ensemble meta-learner to predict the probability of tick attachment across GB at a monthly interval and averaged long-term through 2014-2021 at a spatial resolution of 1 km. Individual host factors associated with tick attachment were also assessed by conditional logistic regression on a matched case-control dataset. RESULTS In total, 11,741 consultations were identified in which a tick was recorded. The frequency of tick records was low (0.16% EHRs), suggesting an underestimation of risk. That said, increased odds for tick attachment in cats and dogs were associated with younger adult ages, longer coat length, crossbreeds and unclassified breeds. In cats, males and entire animals had significantly increased odds of recorded tick attachment. The key variables controlling the spatiotemporal risk for tick attachment were climatic (precipitation and temperature) and vegetation type (Enhanced Vegetation Index). Suitable areas for tick attachment were predicted across GB, especially in forests and grassland areas, mainly during summer, particularly in June. CONCLUSIONS Our results can inform targeted health messages to owners and veterinary practitioners, identifying those animals, seasons and areas of higher risk for tick attachment and allowing for more tailored prophylaxis to reduce tick burden, inappropriate parasiticide treatment and potentially TBDs in companion animals and humans. Sentinel networks like SAVSNET represent a novel complementary data source to improve our understanding of tick attachment risk for companion animals and as a proxy of risk to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Arsevska
- Unit for Animals, Health, Territories, Risks and Ecosystems (UMR ASTRE), French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), 34980, Montferrier-sur-Lez, France.
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK.
| | - Tomislav Hengl
- OpenGeoHub Foundation, 6708 PW, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - David A Singleton
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK
| | - Peter-John M Noble
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK
| | - Cyril Caminade
- Earth System Physics Department, Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), 34151, Trieste, Italy
| | - Obiora A Eneanya
- Health Programs, The Carter Center, 30307, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Philip H Jones
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK
| | - Jolyon M Medlock
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, UK Health Security Agency, SP4 0JG, Salisbury, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, WC1E 7HT, London, UK
| | - Kayleigh M Hansford
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology, UK Health Security Agency, SP4 0JG, Salisbury, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, WC1E 7HT, London, UK
| | - Carmelo Bonannella
- OpenGeoHub Foundation, 6708 PW, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Geo-information Science and Remote Sensing, Wageningen University & Research, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alan D Radford
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, UK
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D'Addiego J, Wand N, Afrough B, Fletcher T, Kurosaki Y, Leblebicioglu H, Hewson R. Recovery of complete genome sequences of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) directly from clinical samples: A comparative study between targeted enrichment and metagenomic approaches. J Virol Methods 2024; 323:114833. [PMID: 37879367 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2023.114833] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is the most prevalent human tick-borne viral disease, endemic to the Balkans, Africa, Middle East and Asia. There are currently no licensed vaccines or effective antivirals against CCHF. CCHF virus (CCHFV) has a negative sense segmented tripartite RNA genome consisting of the small (S), medium (M) and large (L) segments. Depending on the segment utilised for genetic affiliation, there are up to 7 circulating lineages of CCHFV. The current lack of geographical representation of CCHFV sequences in various repositories highlights a requirement for increased CCHFV sequencing capabilities in endemic regions. We have optimised and established a multiplex PCR tiling methodology for the targeted enrichment of complete genomes of Europe 1 CCHFV lineage directly from clinical samples and compared its performance to a non-targeted enrichment approach on both short-read and long-read sequencing platforms. We have found a statistically significant increase in mapped viral sequencing reads produced with our targeted enrichment approach. This has allowed us to recover near complete S segment sequences and above 90% of the M and L segment sequences for samples with Ct values as high as 31.3. This study demonstrates the superiority of a targeted enrichment approach for recovery of CCHFV genomic sequences from samples with low virus titre. CCHFV is an important vector-borne human pathogen with wide geographical distribution. The validated methodology reported here adds value to front-line public health laboratories employing genomic sequencing for CCHFV Europe 1 lineage surveillance, particularly in the Balkan and Middle Eastern territories currently monitoring the spread of the pathogen. Tracking the genomic evolution of the virus across regions improves risk assessment and directly informs the development of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake D'Addiego
- UK Health Security Agency, Science Group, Porton Down, Salisbury, United Kingdom; Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Nadina Wand
- UK Health Security Agency, Science Group, Porton Down, Salisbury, United Kingdom
| | - Babak Afrough
- UK Health Security Agency, Science Group, Porton Down, Salisbury, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Fletcher
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Yohei Kurosaki
- National Research Centre for the Control and Prevention of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University, Japan
| | | | - Roger Hewson
- UK Health Security Agency, Science Group, Porton Down, Salisbury, United Kingdom; Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom; National Research Centre for the Control and Prevention of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University, Japan
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Mota TF, Fukutani ER, Martins KA, Salgado VR, Andrade BB, Fraga DBM, Queiroz ATL. Another tick bites the dust: exploring the association of microbial composition with a broad transmission competence of tick vector species. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0215623. [PMID: 37800912 PMCID: PMC10714957 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02156-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Some tick species are competent to transmit more than one pathogen while other species are, until now, known to be competent to transmit only one single or any pathogen. Such a difference in vector competence for one or more pathogens might be related to the microbiome, and understanding what differentiates these two groups of ticks could help us control several diseases aiming at the bacteria groups that contribute to such a broad vector competence. Using 16S rRNA from tick species that could be classified into these groups, genera such as Rickettsia and Staphylococcus seemed to be associated with such a broad vector competence. Our results highlight differences in tick species when they are divided based on the number of pathogens they are competent to transmit. These findings are the first step into understanding the relationship between one single tick species and the pathogens it transmits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago F. Mota
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Eduardo R. Fukutani
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Kelsilandia A. Martins
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Vanessa R. Salgado
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária da União Metropolitana de Educação e Cultura (UNIME), Lauro de Freitas, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Bruno B. Andrade
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Deborah B. M. Fraga
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Artur T. L. Queiroz
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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Hoernke K, Shrestha A, Pokhrel B, Timberlake T, Giri S, Sapkota S, Dalglish S, Costello A, Saville N. Children in All Policies (CAP) 2030 Citizen Science for Climate Change Resilience: a cross-sectional pilot study engaging adolescents to study climate hazards, biodiversity and nutrition in rural Nepal. Wellcome Open Res 2023; 8:570. [PMID: 38434744 PMCID: PMC10904941 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.18591.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Young people will suffer most from climate change yet are rarely engaged in dialogue about it. Citizen science offers a method for collecting policy-relevant data, whilst promoting awareness and capacity building. We tested the feasibility and acceptability of engaging Nepalese adolescents in climate change and health-related citizen science. Methods We purposively selected 33 adolescents from two secondary schools in one remote and one relatively accessible district of Nepal. We contextualised existing apps and developed bespoke apps to survey climate hazards, waste and water management, local biodiversity, nutrition and sociodemographic information. We analysed and presented quantitative data using a descriptive analysis. We captured perceptions and learnings via focus group discussions and analysed qualitative data using thematic analysis. We shared findings with data collectors using tables, graphs, data dashboards and maps. Results Adolescents collected 1667 biodiversity observations, identified 72 climate-change related hazards, and mapped 644 geolocations. They recorded 286 weights, 248 heights and 340 dietary recalls. Adolescents enjoyed learning how to collect the data and interpret the findings and gained an appreciation of local biodiversity which engendered 'environmental stewardship'. Data highlighted the prevalence of failing crops and landslides, revealed both under- and over-nutrition and demonstrated that children consume more junk foods than adults. Adolescents learnt about the impacts of climate change and the importance of eating a diverse diet of locally grown foods. A lack of a pre-established sampling frame, multiple records of the same observation and spurious nutrition data entries by unsupervised adolescents limited data quality and utility. Lack of internet access severely impacted feasibility, especially of apps which provide online feedback. Conclusions Citizen science was largely acceptable, educational and empowering for adolescents, although not always feasible without internet access. Future projects could improve data quality and integrate youth leadership training to enable climate-change advocacy with local leaders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Hoernke
- Children in All Policies-2030, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | | | - Bhawak Pokhrel
- Kathmandu Living Labs, 1474 Lamtangin Marg, Chundevi, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Thomas Timberlake
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK
| | - Santosh Giri
- HERD International, Sainbu Awas Cr-10 Marga, Bhaisepati, Lalitpur, Nepal, Nepal
| | - Sujan Sapkota
- HERD International, Sainbu Awas Cr-10 Marga, Bhaisepati, Lalitpur, Nepal, Nepal
| | - Sarah Dalglish
- Children in All Policies-2030, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Anthony Costello
- Children in All Policies-2030, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Naomi Saville
- Children in All Policies-2030, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
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10
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Rowan S, Mohseni N, Chang M, Burger H, Peters M, Mir S. From Tick to Test: A Comprehensive Review of Tick-Borne Disease Diagnostics and Surveillance Methods in the United States. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2048. [PMID: 37895430 PMCID: PMC10608558 DOI: 10.3390/life13102048] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) have become a significant public health concern in the United States over the past few decades. The increasing incidence and geographical spread of these diseases have prompted the implementation of robust surveillance systems to monitor their prevalence, distribution, and impact on human health. This comprehensive review describes key disease features with the geographical distribution of all known tick-borne pathogens in the United States, along with examining disease surveillance efforts, focusing on strategies, challenges, and advancements. Surveillance methods include passive and active surveillance, laboratory-based surveillance, sentinel surveillance, and a One Health approach. Key surveillance systems, such as the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS), TickNET, and the Tick-Borne Disease Laboratory Network (TBDLN), are discussed. Data collection and reporting challenges, such as underreporting and misdiagnosis, are highlighted. The review addresses challenges, including lack of standardization, surveillance in non-human hosts, and data integration. Innovations encompass molecular techniques, syndromic surveillance, and tick surveillance programs. Implications for public health cover prevention strategies, early detection, treatment, and public education. Future directions emphasize enhanced surveillance networks, integrated vector management, research priorities, and policy implications. This review enhances understanding of TBD surveillance, aiding in informed decision-making for effective disease prevention and control. By understanding the current surveillance landscape, public health officials, researchers, and policymakers can make informed decisions to mitigate the burden of (TBDs).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Sheema Mir
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA; (S.R.)
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11
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Sgroi G, D'Alessio N, Vada R, Ferroglio E, Vicente J, Veneziano V. The contribution of citizen science in the surveillance of wildlife and related arthropods. Parasitology 2023; 150:1089-1095. [PMID: 37929599 PMCID: PMC10801373 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023001038] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Environmental and anthropogenic factors may significantly affect the diffusion of wild animals, enhancing the interface of human–wildlife interactions and driving the spread of pathogens and vector-borne diseases between animals and humans. However, in the last decade, the involvement of citizens in scientific research (the so-called citizen science approach, henceforth abbreviated as CS) provided a network of large-scale and cost-effective surveillance programmes of wildlife populations and their related arthropod species. Therefore, this review aims to illustrate different methods and tools used in CS studies, by arguing the main advantages and considering the limitations of this approach. The CS approach has proven to be an effective method for establishing density and distribution of several wild animal species, in urban, peri-urban and rural environments, as well a source of information regarding vector–host associations between arthropods and wildlife. Extensive efforts are recommended to motivate citizens to be involved in scientific projects to improve both their and our knowledge of the ecology and diseases of wildlife. Following the One Health paradigm, collaborative and multidisciplinary models for the surveillance of wildlife and related arthropod species should be further developed by harnessing the potentiality of the CS approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Sgroi
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Nicola D'Alessio
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
- Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio, Naples, Italy
| | - Rachele Vada
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Ezio Ferroglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Joaquin Vicente
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Vincenzo Veneziano
- Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio, Naples, Italy
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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12
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Nallan K, Ayyavu V, Ayyanar E, Thirupathi B, Gupta B, Devaraju P, Kumar A, Rajaiah P. Molecular Evidence of Rickettsia conorii subsp. raoultii and Rickettsia felis in Haemaphysalis intermedia Ticks in Sirumalai, Eastern Ghats, Tamil Nadu, South India. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1713. [PMID: 37512886 PMCID: PMC10384621 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Rickettsia is an important pathogenic entity among tick-borne diseases (TBD), which are considered serious emerging public health problems globally. In India, though the widespread distribution of ticks and TBD has been documented, its real burden remains underreported. In a preliminary attempt, rickettsial surveillance was carried out in ticks collected from Sirumalai, Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu, India by using pathogen genome-based phylogenetic inferences generated through multi-locus sequence typing (MLST), targeting the genes 16s rRNA, OmpA, OmpB, and gltA by nested PCR. The laboratory evidence confirms the circulation of Rickettsia in Haemaphysalis intermedia species collected from this area. Analysis of the four gene sequences detected demonstrates their closest identity to the spotted fever group (SFG) available in the GenBank database. Further, multiple sequence alignment with other sequences derived from the GenBank database showed close relatedness to Rickettsia conorii subsp. raoultii (16s rDNA-99.32%, OmpA-93.38%, OmpB-97.39%, and gltA-98.57%) and Rickettsia felis (16s rDNA 99.54%, OmpA-100%, OmpB-100% and gltA-99.41%). With this genomic evidence, the circulation of rickettsial pathogens in the pools of H. intermedia ticks infesting livestock in the Sirumalai foothill area has been demonstrated and to complement the microscopic identification of the tick species, DNA barcodes were generated for H. intermedia using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (COI). Nevertheless, R. raoultii and R. felis were found to be the aetiological agents of tick-borne lymphadenopathy and flea-borne spotted fever in human cases, respectively, further study on the determination of their diversity, distribution, clinical relevance, and potential risk to the local community in these areas is highly warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishnamoorthy Nallan
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, Field Unit, 4. Sarojini Street, Madurai 625002, India
| | - Veerapathiran Ayyavu
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, Field Unit, 4. Sarojini Street, Madurai 625002, India
| | - Elango Ayyanar
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, Puducherry 605006, India
| | - Balaji Thirupathi
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, Field Unit, 4. Sarojini Street, Madurai 625002, India
| | - Bhavna Gupta
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, Field Unit, 4. Sarojini Street, Madurai 625002, India
| | | | - Ashwani Kumar
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, Puducherry 605006, India
| | - Paramasivan Rajaiah
- ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, Field Unit, 4. Sarojini Street, Madurai 625002, India
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13
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McFadzean H, Johnson N, Phipps LP, Swinson V, Boden LA. Surveillance and Risk Analysis for Bovine Babesiosis in England and Wales to Inform Disease Distribution. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2118. [PMID: 37443916 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesia divergens is a zoonotic piroplasm that infects both cattle and humans in Europe. Disease transmission occurs through Ixodes ricinus tick bites, a species that is increasing in abundance and distribution across Europe in response to climate and land-use changes. Developments in agri-environment policy and changing consumer demands may also have unintended consequences on tick-borne disease rates. Currently, B. divergens surveillance in British cattle is limited, rendering temporal trend analysis and the detection of potential zoonotic hotspots impossible. The objective of this study was to assess syndromic surveillance as a means of determining babesiosis distribution in British cattle, and to evaluate the intrinsic disease risk factors in order to respond to disease threats posed by changing environments. Samples from 95 clinically affected cattle on 70 unique holdings were screened for Babesia spp., using established blood smear examination techniques and a B. divergens-specific PCR method, between April and December 2021. B. divergens was detected in 45/95 animals (47.4%), with PCR offering the advantage of identification at species level. Infection with Anaplasma phagocytophilum was detected in 19/95 animals (20%). Co-infection was detected in five animals. The cases were recorded across multiple geographic regions and throughout the sampling period. Univariate logistic regression analysis failed to identify any statistically significant risk factors for B. divergens presence. This study demonstrates that bovine babesiosis is geographically widespread throughout England and Wales, placing a large proportion of the cattle population at risk of infection, with the potential for zoonotic transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicholas Johnson
- Vector Borne Diseases, Animal and Plant Health Agency Weybridge, Surrey KT17 3NB, UK
| | - L Paul Phipps
- Vector Borne Diseases, Animal and Plant Health Agency Weybridge, Surrey KT17 3NB, UK
| | - Vanessa Swinson
- Animal and Plant Health Agency Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 1PZ, UK
| | - Lisa A Boden
- Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems, The University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK
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14
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Maxwell SP, Brooks C, Kim P, Kim D, McNeely CL, Thomas K. Understanding Habitats and Environmental Conditions of White-Tailed Deer Population Density and Public Health Data to Aid in Assessing Human Tick-Borne Disease Risk. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11040865. [PMID: 37110288 PMCID: PMC10146154 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11040865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The extent of tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in the United States is largely unknown and underreported. Equitable diagnostic and treatment options may vary by geographic location. Triangulating multi-modal data sources informed by a One Health approach provides robust proxies for human TBD risk. Using data from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources collected from hunters during the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) hunting season and other sources, we employ a mixed-methods approach based on thematic mapping and mixed effects modelling to determine if deer population density aligns with official disease data at the county level from (1) positive canine serological reports for, anaplasmosis, and Lyme Disease (LD); (2) positive human cases of ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, LD, and Spotted Fever rickettsioses; and (3) tick infectivity. We propose the need for multimodal data analysis using a variety of potential proxies to better estimate disease risk and inform public health policy and practice. We find similar spatial distributions between deer population density and human and canine TBDs in northeastern and southern Indiana, which are rural and mixed geographic areas. Overall, LD is more prevalent in the northwest, central-western, and southeastern counties, while ehrlichiosis is more common in the southern counties. These findings hold true across humans, canines, and deer.
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Szczotko M, Kubiak K, Michalski MM, Moerbeck L, Antunes S, Domingos A, Dmitryjuk M. Neoehrlichia mikurensis-A New Emerging Tick-Borne Pathogen in North-Eastern Poland? Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020307. [PMID: 36839579 PMCID: PMC9966005 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Neoehrlichia mikurensis is a new emerging tick-borne Gram-negative bacterium, belonging to the family Anaplasmataceae, the main vector of which in Europe is the tick Ixodes ricinus. N. mikurensis is responsible for neoehrlichiosis, occurring mostly in patients with underlying diseases. In the present study, a total of 348 I. ricinus and Dermacentor reticulatus ticks collected in north-eastern Poland were analyzed for the prevalence of N. mikurensis. A total of 140 questing ticks (124 of I. ricinus ticks and 16 D. reticulatus) collected with the flagging method and 208 ticks (105 and 103 I. ricinus and D. reticulatus, respectively) removed from dogs were selected for the study. cDNA (questing ticks) and total DNA (questing and feeding ticks) were analyzed by qPCR targeting the 16S rRNA gene of N. mikurensis. Positive samples were further analyzed by nested PCR and sequencing. The prevalence differed between ticks collected from vegetation (19.3%; 27/140) and ticks removed from dogs (6.7%; 14/208). The presence of the pathogen in questing and feeding D. reticulatus ticks was proven in Poland for the first time. In summary, our research showed that infections of ticks of both the most common tick species I. ricinus and D. reticulatus in north-eastern Poland are present and ticks collected from urban areas were more often infected than ticks from suburban and natural areas. The detection of N. mikurensis in I. ricinus and D. reticulatus ticks from north-eastern Poland indicates potential transmission risk for tick-bitten humans at this latitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Szczotko
- Students’ Parasitology “Vermis” Science Club, Department of Medical Biology, Collegium Medicum, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and Mazury, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kubiak
- Department of Medical Biology, Collegium Medicum, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Zolnierska 14c, 10-561 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Mirosław Mariusz Michalski
- Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 13, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Leonardo Moerbeck
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sandra Antunes
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Domingos
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University, 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal
- Correspondence: (A.D.); (M.D.)
| | - Małgorzata Dmitryjuk
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
- Correspondence: (A.D.); (M.D.)
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16
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Estrada-Peña A, Fernández-Ruiz N. An Agenda for Research of Uncovered Epidemiological Patterns of Tick-Borne Pathogens Affecting Human Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2206. [PMID: 36767573 PMCID: PMC9915995 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The panorama of ticks and tick-borne pathogens (TBP) is complex due to the many interactions among vertebrates, vectors, and habitats, occurring at different scales. At a broad spatial range, climate and host availability regulate most tick processes, including questing activity, development, and survival. At a local scale, interactions are obscured by a high indeterminacy, making it arduous to record in field surveys. A solid modelling framework could translate the local/regional empirical findings into larger scales, shedding light on the processes governing the circulation of TBP. In this opinion paper, we advocate for a re-formulation of some paradigms in the research of these outstanding cycles of transmission. We propose revisiting concepts that faced criticisms or lacked solid support, together with the development of a conceptual scheme exploring the circulation of TBP under a range of conditions. We encourage (i) an adequate interpretation of the niche concept of both ticks and vertebrate/reservoir hosts interpreting the (a)biotic components that shape the tick's niche, (ii) an assessment of the role played by the communities of wild vertebrates on the circulation of pathogens, and (iii) the development of new approaches, based on state-of-the-art epidemiological concepts, to integrate findings and modelling efforts on TBP over large regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Estrada-Peña
- Department of Animal Pathology, University of Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón (IA2), 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Natalia Fernández-Ruiz
- Department of Animal Pathology, University of Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón (IA2), 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
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17
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D’Amico G, Ionică AM, Györke A, Dumitrache MO. Epidemiological Survey of the Main Tick-Borne Pathogens Infecting Dogs from the Republic of Moldova. Pathogens 2022; 11:1267. [PMID: 36365018 PMCID: PMC9697118 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the significant burden of tick-borne diseases (TBDs), epidemiologic studies are missing, and TBD awareness is low in the Republic of Moldova. Our study is the first to assess the prevalence of the main tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) infecting dogs in this country and associated risk factors. In this cross-sectional, multi-centre study (June 2018-July 2019), blood samples were collected from dogs presenting in veterinary clinics (Chişinău: N = 30) and hosted in public dog shelters (Cahul: N = 42; Chişinău: N = 48). TBPs were assessed by molecular techniques and risk factors by the logistic regression model. Hepatozoon canis was the most prevalent TBP (15.8% [19/120]), followed by Babesia canis (11.7% [14/120]), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (5.8% [7/120]), and Bartonella spp. (0.8% [1/120]). Blood samples tested negative for Borrelia spp., Rickettsia spp., Francisella tularensis, Anaplasma platys, and Ehrlichia canis. Dogs originating from the veterinary clinics had a higher prevalence of A. phagocytophilum infection than those from the shelters (16.6% versus 2.2%, respectively, p = 0.0292; OR: 27.0 [95%CI: 1.4-521.9]). Dogs from Chișinău had a higher prevalence of Hepatozoon canis infection versus those from Cahul (19.2% versus 9.5%, respectively, p = 0.0295; OR: 3.9 [95%CI: 1.1-13.4]). We recommend routine use of acaricides and deworming of dogs to prevent or/and limit TBD spread. Further TBD surveillance studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca D’Amico
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Angela Monica Ionică
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases of Cluj-Napoca, 400348 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adriana Györke
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mirabela Oana Dumitrache
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Triangulating the New Frontier of Health Geo-Data: Assessing Tick-Borne Disease Risk as an Occupational Hazard among Vulnerable Populations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159449. [PMID: 35954807 PMCID: PMC9368420 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Determining interventions to combat disease often requires complex analyses of spatial-temporal data to improve health outcomes. For some vulnerable populations, obtaining sufficient data for related analyses is especially difficult, thus exacerbating related healthcare, research, and public health efforts. In the United States (U.S.), migrant and seasonal workers are especially affected in this regard, with data on health interventions and outcomes largely absent from official sources. In response, this study offers a multi-modal approach that involves triangulating geographically specified health data that incorporate reports on canine tick species, Lyme disease (LD) incidence, and patient symptom severity indicating potential subsequent disease burden. Spatial alignment of data at the U.S. county level was used to reveal and better understand tick-borne disease (TBD) incidence and risk among the identified populations. Survey data from migrant and seasonal workers in Texas were employed to determine TBD risk based on symptoms, occupations, and locations. Respondents who were found to have a higher likelihood of a TBD were also considerably more likely to report the most common symptoms of LD and other TBDs on the Horowitz Multiple Systemic Infectious Disease Syndrome Questionnaire. Those in the highly likely scoring group also reported more poor health and mental health days. Overall, a notable number of respondents (22%) were likely or highly likely to have a TBD, with particular relevance attributed to county of residence and living conditions. Also of note, almost a third of those reporting severe symptoms had received a previous Lyme disease diagnosis. These findings underscore the need for further surveillance among vulnerable populations at risk for TBDs.
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