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de Moraes IML, Afonso PHA, Salvador VF, Leal LLLL, Cavalcante ASDA, Couto LFM, Heller LM, Tamiozo GL, Zapa DMB, Soares VE, Ferreira LL, Lopes WDZ. Tick fever agents in Holstein calves grazing in a tropical region: predisposing factors, impact on milk production, productivity, and role of Rhipicephalus microplus in epidemiology. Vet Parasitol 2024; 331:110290. [PMID: 39153286 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110290] [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: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate under dairy farm conditions the predisposing factors, impact on milk production and productivity, and the role of Rhipicephalus microplus in the epidemiology of tick fever agents in Holstein calves grazing in a tropical region. A total of 4292 pure female Holsteins were evaluated at a commercial farm. Until April 2020, calves had contact with R. microplus for between 3 and 24 months, while after April 2020, no animal had further contact with ticks. Three times a week the rectal temperature (RT) of all animals was determined, and blood samples were collected for evaluation of tick fever (TF) agents from those that showed RT >39.3 °C. Specific treatment was performed against Anaplasma marginale, Babesia bigemina and Babesia bovis when these TF agents were diagnosed in the blood smears. The number of relapses and treatments for TF agents were sub-classified into scales (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7-10 treatments or relapses, and animals that received blood transfusions). Within each sub-class, the health data of calves during lactation along with productivity data were analyzed. Based in the results, whether an animal received colostrum enriched with powdered colostrum substitute, whether the animal was an embryo transfer calf, and the weight at which each calf was weaned were ascertained as factors leading to more recurrences or treatments against TF agents in post-weaned calves. On average, each recurrence of TF agents that a heifer presented between three and seven months decreased milk production by 213.5 liters in the first lactation. Calves that received a blood transfusion had lower milk production at first lactation; lower weight at first fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI); older age at first FTAI; older age at first, second, and third calving; and delayed age at third calving by 140 days compared to the farm average. R. microplus was the main agent causing clinical cases of TF on the farm, and 10,770 treatments against TF agents were carried out when calves aged between three and seven months had contact with this tick species (2018 and 2019). When the animals no longer had contact with ticks (2022 and 2023), there were no recurrences or treatments against TF agents despite the presence on the farm of S. calcitrans, which can maintain the transmission of A. marginale to the herd.
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Cuy-Chaparro L, Barney-Borrero D, Arévalo-Pinzón G, Reyes C, Moreno-Pérez DA, Patarroyo MA. Babesia bovis RON2 binds to bovine erythrocytes through a highly conserved epitope. Vet Parasitol 2024; 326:110081. [PMID: 38113611 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.110081] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
B. bovis invasion of bovine erythrocytes requires tight junction formation involving AMA-1/RON2 complex interaction. RON2 has been considered a vaccine candidate since antibodies targeting the protein can inhibit parasite invasion of target cells; however, the mechanism controlling B. bovis RON2 interaction with red blood cells is not yet fully understood. This study was thus aimed at identifying B. bovis RON2 protein regions associated with interaction with bovine erythrocytes. Natural selection analysis of the ron2 gene identified predominantly negative selection signals in the C-terminal region. Interestingly, protein-cell and competition assays highlighted the RON2-C region's role in peptide 42918-mediated erythrocyte binding, probably to a sialoglycoprotein receptor. This peptide (1218SFIMVKPPALHCVLKPVETL1237) lies within an intrinsically disordered region of the RON2 secondary structure flanked by two helical residues. The study provides, for the first time, valuable insights into RON2's role in interaction with its target cells. Future studies are required for studying the peptide's potential as an anti-B. bovis vaccine component.
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Rahal NM, Luz GB, Martins KR, Gasperin BG, Feijó JDO, Dalto AGC, Rovani MT, Cunha RC, Corrêa MN. Association between chronic Anaplasma marginale and Babesia spp. infection and hematological parameters of taurine heifers. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2023; 32:e006423. [PMID: 37672469 PMCID: PMC10503823 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612023052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the association between chronic Anaplasma marginale and Babesia spp. infection and hematological parameters of pregnant and non-pregnant taurine heifers. Blood samples from 94 females were collected on the first day (D-10) of timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol and on pregnancy diagnosis (D+34). Hematological parameters were determined and compared between pregnant (PG) and non-pregnant (NPG) heifers, and within group at different sampling days. Real-time PCR (qPCR) was used to determine A. marginale and Babesia bovis infection, and for absolute quantification of Babesia spp. between PG and NPG groups. Correlation analysis was performed between the number of gDNA copies (CN) of Babesia spp. and hematological parameters. On D-10, mean hemoglobin concentration was higher for NPG, and hematocrit and total plasma protein were higher on D+34 for both groups. There was no difference in Babesia spp. CN between groups. In the first qPCR, all heifers were positive for A. marginale and B. bovis. Significant correlations were found between hemoglobin and erythrocyte and between hemoglobin and hematocrit (r = 0.8082 and r = 0.3009, respectively). Low levels of A. marginale and Babesia spp. did not affect hematological parameters of chronically infected pregnant and non-pregnant taurine heifers.
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Santos JHM, Siddle HV, Raza A, Stanisic DI, Good MF, Tabor AE. Exploring the landscape of Babesia bovis vaccines: progress, challenges, and opportunities. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:274. [PMID: 37563668 PMCID: PMC10413621 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05885-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Bovine babesiosis, caused by different Babesia spp. such as B. bovis, B. bigemina, B. divergens, and B. major, is a global disease that poses a serious threat to livestock production. Babesia bovis infections are associated with severe disease and increased mortality in adult cattle, making it the most virulent agent of bovine babesiosis. Babesia bovis parasites undergo asexual reproduction within bovine red blood cells, followed by sexual reproduction within their tick vectors, which transmit the parasite transovarially. Current control methods, including therapeutic drugs (i.e., imidocarb) have been found to lead to drug resistance. Moreover, changing environmental factors add complexity to efficient parasite control. Understanding the fundamental biology, host immune responses, and host-parasite interactions of Babesia parasites is critical for developing next-generation vaccines to control acute disease and parasite transmission. This systematic review analyzed available research papers on vaccine development and the associated immune responses to B. bovis. We compiled and consolidated the reported vaccine strategies, considering the study design and rationale of each study, to provide a systematic review of knowledge and insights for further research. Thirteen studies published since 2014 (inclusive) represented various vaccine strategies developed against B. bovis such as subunit, live attenuated, and viral vector vaccines. Such strategies incorporated B. bovis proteins or whole live parasites with the latter providing the most effective prophylaxis against bovine babesiosis. Incorporating novel research approaches, such as "omics" will enhance our understanding of parasite vulnerabilities.
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Bastos RG, Capelli-Peixoto J, Laughery JM, Suarez CE, Ueti MW. Vaccination with an in vitro culture attenuated Babesia bovis strain safely protects highly susceptible adult cattle against acute bovine babesiosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1219913. [PMID: 37583702 PMCID: PMC10424928 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1219913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Live in vivo attenuated Babesia bovis vaccines produced by sequential passages in splenectomized calves have historically been used to control acute bovine babesiosis in endemic areas worldwide. However, several constraints prevent the widespread use of these vaccines, including the need for several splenectomized calves to produce vaccine batches, and potential inconsistent parasite attenuation, which contraindicates their use for highly Babesia-susceptible adult cattle. Thus, the use of vaccines based on well-defined in vitro culture attenuated B. bovis strains emerges as a more sustainable and efficient alternative. Previous work demonstrated that the culture attenuated strain Att-S74-T3Bo is non-tick transmissible and able to safely protect calves against needle challenge with a B. bovis virulent strain. Methods and results Herein we evaluated safety and efficacy of Att-S74-T3Bo in preventing acute babesiosis in adult (>1.5 year of age) cattle. Results demonstrated that Att-S74-T3Bo vaccination of adult animals (n=5) induced self-limiting signs of acute infection and protected the vaccinated animals against challenge with the homologous virulent B. bovis strain Vir-S74-T3Bo. Att-S74-T3Bo-vaccinated adult cattle developed significant (P<0.05) monocytosis, with concomitant neutropenia and CD4+ leukopenia, in peripheral blood early after vaccination. Also, vaccinated animals developed a specific signature of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine expression in peripheral blood and significant levels of IgM, total IgG, IgG1, and IgG2 against the B. bovis immunodominant antigen RAP-1 CT. Strikingly, none of the vaccinated animals showed any signs of acute babesiosis after challenge with Vir-S74-T3Bo. In contrast, control adult cattle (n=5) showed pathognomonic symptoms of acute babesiosis, and significant decrease (P<0.05) in lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils, starting on day 7 post-challenge. All control animals developed severe acute disease and were euthanized on days 10 through 12 days post-challenge. Discussion and conclusion Evidence from this study indicates that Att-S74-T3Bo safely protects highly susceptible adult cattle against challenge with a homologous virulent strain of B. bovis. In conclusion, Att-S74-T3Bo may be considered as a potential efficient and sustainable attenuated candidate vaccine strain to control acute bovine babesiosis in highly susceptible adult cattle. Future studies should focus on increasing the number of animals vaccinated, duration of immunity, and efficacy of this attenuated strain against heterologous virulent parasite strains.
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Bastos RG, Laughery JM, Ozubek S, Alzan HF, Taus NS, Ueti MW, Suarez CE. Identification of novel immune correlates of protection against acute bovine babesiosis by superinfecting cattle with in vitro culture attenuated and virulent Babesia bovis strains. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1045608. [PMID: 36466866 PMCID: PMC9716085 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1045608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The apicomplexan tickborne parasites Babesia bovis and B. bigemina are the major causative agents of bovine babesiosis, a disease that negatively affects the cattle industry and food safety around the world. The absence of correlates of protection represents one major impediment for the development of effective and sustainable vaccines against bovine babesiosis. Herein we superinfected cattle with attenuated and virulent strains of B. bovis to investigate immune correlates of protection against acute bovine babesiosis. Three 6-month-old Holstein calves were infected intravenously (IV) with the in vitro culture attenuated Att-S74-T3Bo B. bovis strain (106 infected bovine red blood cells (iRBC)/calf) while three age-matched Holstein calves were inoculated IV with normal RBC as controls (106 RBC/calf). All Att-S74-T3Bo-infected calves showed a significant increase in temperature early after inoculation but recovered without treatment. Att-S74-T3Bo-infected calves also developed: (a) monocytosis, neutropenia, and CD4+ lymphopenia in peripheral blood on days 3 to 7 post-inoculation; (b) significant levels of TNFα, CXCL10, IFNγ, IL-4, and IL-10 in sera at day 6 after infection; and (c) IgM and IgG against B. bovis antigens, starting at days 10 and 30 post-inoculation, respectively. At 46 days post-Att-S74-T3Bo inoculation, all experimental calves were infected IV with the homologous virulent B. bovis strain Vir-S74-T3Bo (107 iRBC/calf). All Att-S74-T3Bo-infected calves survived superinfection with Vir-S74-T3Bo without displaying signs of acute babesiosis. In contrast, control animals showed signs of acute disease, starting at day 10 post-Vir-S74-T3Bo infection, and two of them were humanely euthanized at days 13 and 14 after inoculation due to the severity of their symptoms. Also, control calves showed higher (P<0.05) parasite load in peripheral blood compared to animals previously exposed to Att-S74-T3Bo. No significant alterations in the profile of leukocytes and cytokines were observed in Att-S74-T3Bo-inoculated after Vir-S74-T3Bo infection. In conclusion, data demonstrate novel changes in the profile of blood immune cells and cytokine expression in peripheral blood that are associated with protection against acute bovine babesiosis. These identified immune correlates of protection may be useful for designing effective and sustainable vaccines against babesiosis in cattle.
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Otgonsuren D, Sivakumar T, Amgalanbaatar T, Enkhtaivan B, Narantsatsral S, Tuvshintulga B, Zoljargal M, Munkhgerel D, Davkharbayar B, Baatarjargal P, Davaasuren B, Myagmarsuren P, Battsetseg B, Battur B, Yokoyama N. Molecular epidemiological survey of Babesia bovis, Babesia bigemina, and Babesia sp. Mymensingh infections in Mongolian cattle. Parasitol Int 2020; 77:102107. [PMID: 32205192 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2020.102107] [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: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Bovine babesiosis caused by Babesia species is an economically significant disease of cattle. Severe clinical babesiosis in cattle is caused by Babesia bovis, B. bigemina, and the recently discovered Babesia sp. Mymensingh. Mongolia is an agricultural country with a large cattle inventory. Although previous studies have detected active infections of B. bovis and B. bigemina in Mongolian cattle, only a few provinces were surveyed. Additionally, the endemicity of Babesia sp. Mymensingh in Mongolia remains unknown. We screened blood DNA samples from 725 cattle reared in 16 of the 21 Mongolian provinces using B. bovis-, B. bigemina-, and Babesia. sp. Mymensingh-specific PCR assays. The overall positive rates of B. bovis, B. bigemina, and Babesia sp. Mymensingh were 27.9% (n = 202), 23.6% (n = 171), and 5.4% (n = 39), respectively. B. bovis and B. bigemina were detected in cattle in all surveyed provinces; whereas Babesia sp. Mymensingh was detected in 11 of the 16 surveyed provinces. On a per province basis, the B. bovis- B. bigemina-, and Babesia sp. Mymensingh-positive rates were 5.9-52.0%, 9.1-76.3%, and 0-35.7%, respectively. In conclusion, this is the first report of Babesia sp. Mymensingh in Mongolia. In addition, we found that species of Babesia that are capable of causing bovine clinical babesiosis, including B. bovis, B. bigemina, and Babesia sp. Mymensingh, are widespread throughout the country.
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Madder M, Thys E, Achi L, Touré A, De Deken R. Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus: a most successful invasive tick species in West-Africa. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2011; 53:139-45. [PMID: 20711801 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-010-9390-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2010] [Accepted: 07/15/2010] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is known to be a highly reproductive and efficient vector of Babesia bovis, two characters which make this tick a threat to livestock keeping in many continents. The authors identified this tick in Ivory Coast, West Africa, in 2007, and hypothesized the spread to be minimal, as this tick was not observed in previous years. To determine the extent of its distribution and to a lesser extent the possible impact of the tick on the livelihoods of Ivorian smallholders, a cross-sectional survey was carried out in the Abidjan and Agboville Departments of Ivory Coast, in April 2008. The results of the study reveal that the newly introduced tick has almost completely displaced all indigenous Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) species in the study area and gave rise to unsuccessful tick control, inappropriate pesticide use, loss of milk production and even increased mortality in dairy cattle.
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Barreira JD, Rossi MID, Pires FA, da Silva GVO, Massard CL. [The effect of different strains Babesia bovis (Babes, 1888) on tick of Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887)]. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2006; 15:138-42. [PMID: 17196115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2005] [Accepted: 10/20/2006] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Two samples (modified and no-modified) of Babesia bovis, were used to evaluate the effect on engorged females of Boophilus microplus Babesia spp - free. For so much, were used three holstein breed bovine, males with 6 months of age, (BH1, BH2 and BH3), coming of the Plateau of Itatiaia, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Each calf was infested with 0.2g of B. microplus larvae Babesia spp- free, for 10 consecutive days. They were inoculated in the calves BH1 and BH2, modified and no modified sample, respectively. After natural fall of adults ticks from the vertebrate host, 100 engorged females of each host (BH1, BH2 and BH3) were incubated in BOD, with superior Relative Humidity up 80%, Temperature of 28 degrees C, were appraised daily until the 12th day post incubation (dpi.). In the group of the engorged females obtained of calf BH1, infection of ticks was not observed, to the haemolymph exam and oviposture. The sporokinets absence in these samples was related with the successive passages in splenectomized calves and the criopreservation of the sample. In engorged females from BH2 it was observed rates of infection of 100% and 82% of mortality in 7th dpi. and 100% until 12nd dpi., as the oviposture, 70% did not make oviposition and 30% made it until 7th dpi.
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Goff WL, Johnson WC, Horn RH, Barrington GM, Knowles DP. The innate immune response in calves to Boophilus microplus tick transmitted Babesia bovis involves type-1 cytokine induction and NK-like cells in the spleen. Parasite Immunol 2003; 25:185-8. [PMID: 12940961 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3024.2003.00625.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The innate immune response to Babesia bovis infection in cattle is age-related, spleen-dependent and, in stabilate inoculated calves, has type-1 characteristics, including the early induction of IL-12 and IFN-gamma. In this study with three calves, parameters of innate immunity were followed for 2 weeks after tick transmission of B. bovis. Each calf survived the acute disease episode without drug intervention, and responded with increased levels of plasma interferon-gamma and type-1 cytokine expression, monocyte/macrophage activation, and CD8+ cellular proliferation in the spleen. The proliferating CD8+ population consisted primarily of NK-like cells, and the expansion occurred in parallel with an increase in IL-15 mRNA expression in the spleen.
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L'Hostis M, Seegers H. Tick-borne parasitic diseases in cattle: current knowledge and prospective risk analysis related to the ongoing evolution in French cattle farming systems. Vet Res 2002; 33:599-611. [PMID: 12387492 DOI: 10.1051/vetres:2002041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic diseases, like babesiosis and theileriosis are transmitted by ticks: their occurrence is therefore linked to the size of the tick stock and the seasonality of the vectors. Babesia divergens bovine babesiosis transmitted by Ixodes ricinus is widespread and often reported in France. Serological prevalence is high, ranging from 20 to 80% according to the farms. Clinical incidence is low: around 0.4% for the whole cattle population. The endemic situation is unstable and clinical cases occur more frequently with farming system modifications. L. ricinus is a tick essentially found in woodlands and so, for the most part, is found in closed rural areas. The situation of the other bovine babesiosis (Babesia major) and theileriosis (Theileria orientalis) is not well documented in France. However, the epidemiology of parasitic diseases is changing, especially because of changes in the environmental characteristics, i.e. both farm and herd management conditions and also climatic conditions. These modifications can provoke an increase in the tick stocks, an increase in the contact rate between cattle and ticks, and an increase in the contact rate between cattle and the wild fauna, especially deer. This results in likely modifications of the endemic situation, with a higher risk of clinical babesiosis in the medium term.
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Bram RA, George JE, Reichar RE, Tabaciinic WJ. Threat of foreign arthropod-borne pathogens to livestock in the United States. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2002; 39:405-416. [PMID: 12061432 DOI: 10.1603/0022-2585-39.3.405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
There are many exotic animal pathogens throughout the world that, if introduced into the United States. could have a significant detrimental impact on the health of livestock, agricultural economy, the environment, and public health. Many of these pathogens are arthropod-borne and potential vectors are readily available in the United States. A number of these arthropod-borne pathogens are discussed here as examples that illustrate the potential risk and the consequences of inadvertent introductions. Several International agencies have a role in global surveillance and in controlling animal diseases should they begin to expand their range. The risk to the United States is considerable. We propose that the United States invest in the improved infrastructure needed to reduce the risk of foreign arthropod-borne pathogens. Current U.S. programs focus on the exclusion of pathogens through regulation of animal movements and products, surveillance, especially trained animal disease diagnosticians, research support, international cooperation and, should pathogens enter our country, the resources for their prompt eradication. We suggest that the United States needs to develop a comprehensive, updated strategic plan to assess all aspects of current and future requirements, objectives, and resources needed to protect its national interests.
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Smith RD, Evans DE, Martins JR, Ceresér VH, Correa BL, Petraccia C, Cardozo H, Solari MA, Nari A. Babesiosis ( Babesia bovis) stability in unstable environments. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2001; 916:510-20. [PMID: 11193666 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2000.tb05330.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Enzootic stability (herd immunity) in bovine babesiosis occurs when the rate of transmission (inoculation rate) of Babesia spp by the tick vector is sufficient to immunize a majority of susceptible calves before the loss of calfhood resistance. The effect of three tick (Boophilus microplus) control strategies (none, threshold, and strategic) on enzootic stability and the likelihood of babesiosis (Babesia bovis) outbreaks was studied using a spreadsheet age-class computer simulation model. The model was driven by weekly bovine tick counts from Brazil and Uruguay. The Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil bovine population (30 degrees 05' South latitude) was found to be in a naturally occurring state of enzootic stability, corresponding to an inoculation rate exceeding 0.005 throughout the year. Threshold dipping strategies should not increase the risk of babesiosis in cattle so managed. Strategic dipping resulted in an extended period of enzootic instability lasting 30 weeks, which requires protection of the herd through immunization. Because of the more prolonged low winter temperature conditions, the Tacuarembó, Uruguay bovine population (31 degrees 40' South latitude) was found to be in a naturally occurring state of enzootic instability, characterized by a 28 week period in which the inoculation rate was below 0.005. Strategic dipping should lead to eradication of the babesial parasite from tick and bovine populations, but would not result in eradication of the tick vector. This could lead to subsequent outbreaks if Babesia carrier animals were to be introduced into the herd. In both populations, strategic tick control could be accompanied by concurrent babesiosis vaccination.
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Abstract
The major economically important tick-borne diseases of cattle are theileriosis, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and cowdriosis. Culture-derived attenuated schizonts of Theileria annulata have proved to be safe for all types of cattle and they protect against tick-borne theileriosis. T. parva was also successfully grown in vitro; however, inoculation of cattle with allogeneic schizont-infected cells resulted in rejection and destruction of the parasites together with the host cells. The number of schizont-infected cells needed for immunization is greater than for T. annulata theileriosis. Culture-propagated Babesia bovis and B. bigemina were used for large scale vaccination in the field. An avirulent population of Babesia spp. was obtained by in vitro cloning; inoculation of cattle did not induce clinical babesiosis, but produced specific antibodies. Culture-derived exoantigens of Babesia spp. proved to be completely safe for cattle, however, they conferred less protection than live parasites. Cell-cultured Cowdria ruminantium was highly infective for susceptible animals but, attenuated in vitro, could offer a potential source for vaccination. Anaplasma marginale, successfully grown in tick cell culture, may be developed for vaccines. Factors that should be considered in the developing of vaccines against tick-borne diseases include: the protective immune response to the pathogenic parasite developmental stages, virulence, immunological strain differences, and antigenic variations in cattle and in culture.
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Court RA, Jackson LA, Lee RP. Elevated anti-parasitic activity in peripheral blood monocytes and neutrophils of cattle infected with Babesia bovis. Int J Parasitol 2001; 31:29-37. [PMID: 11165268 DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7519(00)00144-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The innate immune response to bovine Babesia bovis infection in vivo has not previously been established. We used assays measuring phagocytosis and oxidative burst to investigate the immune response because they are indicative of the innate antimicrobial capacity of monocytes and neutrophils. Monocyte and neutrophil phagocytosis is thought to be non-specific in nature and so the phagocytosis of either opsonised Zymosan or Escherichia coli was used to indicate the non-specific phagocytic capacity of monocytes and neutrophils ex vivo. The kinetics of both phagocytic and oxidative burst activity in monocytes and neutrophils were followed twice weekly from pre-inoculation (day 0) through to 31 days after inoculation. Peripheral blood monocytes were found to display a pronounced oxidative burst, but a suppressed capacity to phagocytose during a primary infection. On the other hand, neutrophils exhibited an increased phagocytic capacity and reduced oxidative activity during a primary infection. These findings identified considerable antimicrobial activity evident in peripheral blood monocytes and neutrophils from cattle exposed to B. bovis as a primary exposure. This elevated antimicrobial activity was coincident with the time that parasite numbers peaked in the circulation and occurred prior to parasite clearance. These results suggest that peripheral blood monocytes and neutrophils are active mediators in the innate immune response to a primary B. bovis.
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Ferrer D, Castellà J, Gutiérrez JF. Seroprevalence of Babesia ovis in sheep in Catalonia, northeastern Spain. Vet Parasitol 1998; 79:275-81. [PMID: 9831951 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-4017(98)00175-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
An indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) was developed in order to detect antibodies against Babesia ovis in different sheep flocks from Catalonia, northeastern Spain. Of the total 2174 sera included in the study, 133 (6.1%) were positive. Considerable differences in seroprevalence were detected depending on the geographical areas from which the animals originated. This must have been a consequence of the presence or absence of the vector tick, Rhipicephalus bursa, the distribution of which depends upon the bioclimate and vegetation present in the different areas studied. Even within those areas which afford suitable conditions for the presence of Rh. bursa ticks, and therefore in which positive titres were found, great differences in seroprevalence were detected among different flocks.
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Yeruham I, Hadani A, Galker F. Effect of passage of Babesia ovis in the gerbil (Acomys cahirinus) on the course of infection in splenectomized lambs. Vet Parasitol 1996; 65:157-61. [PMID: 8916410 DOI: 10.1016/0304-4017(95)00934-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Splenectomized gerbils (Acomys cahirinus) have been found to be susceptible to Babesia ovis applied via blood inoculation, whereas intact gerbils were not infected. Blood from splenectomized latently infected gerbils caused infection in a splenectomized lamb. Intact Acomys cahirinus gerbils did not become infected by B. ovis, and all captured rodents in an enzootic area, intact and splenectomized, were found to be negative for B. ovis. It can thus be concluded that Acomys cahirinus does not serve as a natural reservoir for B. ovis.
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Figueroa JV, Alvarez JA, Canto GJ, Ramos JA, Mosqueda JJ, Buening GM. Comparative sensitivity of two tests for the diagnosis of multiple hemoparasite infection of cattle. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1996; 791:117-27. [PMID: 8784493 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.1996.tb53518.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of light microscopy (LM) examination of blood smears and a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (MPCR) assay, in terms of their ability to detect cattle experimentally infected with Babesia bovis, Babesia bigemina, and Anaplasma marginale. Blood samples were collected from 32 intact, 1-2 year old, Holstein bulls, previous to and after simultaneous inoculation of culture-derived or field isolates of B. bovis- and B. bigemina-infected erythrocytes. To establish the triple hemoparasite infection, 16 of the bulls were also inoculated with a calf-derived isolate of A. marginale. The results showed that both tests had 100% specificity. In contrast, the sensitivities of the MPCR assay against the LM test were 93.5% and 70.9%; 96.7% and 100%; and 93.8% and 93.8% for B. bovis, B. bigemina, and A. marginale infection, respectively. The advantages and disadvantages of the MPCR assay to differentially diagnose cattle with multiple hemoparasite infection are discussed.
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Alvarez V, Pérez E, Herrero MV. Epizootiologic instability of bovine populations against Babesia bovis (Piroplasmida:Babesiidae) in the region of Poas, Costa Rica. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1996; 791:110-6. [PMID: 8784492 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.1996.tb53517.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
In Poás (Costa Rica), more than 78% of the cattle population is susceptible to Babesia bovis (Babes, 1888) which indicates that care should be taken during animal movement to avoid tick exposure. Seroprevalence is less than 22%; the frequency distribution of antibody titers is presented. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in the distribution of seropositive animals between ecological zones. Lower mountain rain forest and lower mountain wet forest presented higher risk for seropositivity. Based on the serological characteristics of the herds and the frequency of clinical cases, it is suggested that the cattle situation in the area is epidemiologically unstable for B. bovis.
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Papadopoulos B, Perié NM, Uilenberg G. Piroplasms of domestic animals in the Macedonia region of Greece. 1. Serological cross-reactions. Vet Parasitol 1996; 63:41-56. [PMID: 8792579 DOI: 10.1016/0304-4017(95)00878-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
During a serological survey on haemoparasites in Macedonia, serum samples were collected from cattle, sheep and goats. All sera were tested by the indirect immunofluorescence test (IFAT); the cattle sera against Theileria orientalis, T. annulata, Babesia bigemina, B. bovis, B. divergens and B. major antigens; the sheep and goat sera against T. ovis, B. ovis, B. motasi and B. crassa antigens. Parallel tests of negative and positive control sera against all the antigens showed the existence of cross-reactions of different degrees between species of the same genus. In cattle, the most important cross-reactions were obtained against B. bigemina antigen, especially with the anti-B. bovis serum, in small ruminants against B. motasi with the anti-B. crassa serum. In the field sera, there was a high correlation between the antibody titres of B. bigemina and B. bovis, and also between the titres of these two Babesia spp. and B. divergens. A high correlation was also found between B. motasi and B. crassa, and lower ones between these two and B. ovis. The correlations of the sera titres were due to mixed infections or to cross-reactions. Therefore, the use of the IFAT is not always satisfactory for diagnosing infections in regions where animals are infected with different piroplasms.
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Papadopoulos B, Brossard M, Perié NM. Piroplasms of domestic animals in the Macedonia region of Greece. 2. Piroplasms of cattle. Vet Parasitol 1996; 63:57-66. [PMID: 8792580 DOI: 10.1016/0304-4017(95)00845-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
A study was carried out on piroplasms of cattle in the Macedonia region of Greece. During 1984-1986, 602 serum samples were collected from cattle in 33 localities. Blood smears were also prepared from 50 of the animals in 13 localities. The indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) test revealed that 41.4% of cattle sera were positive to Theileria orientalis, 2.0% to Theileria annulata, 21.6% to Babesia bovis, 15.2% to Babesia bigemina, 5.1% to Babesia major and 2.7% to Babesia divergens. Some of the positive titres were probably due to cross reactions. T. orientalis was widely distributed. T. annulata was limited to a small number of foci. B. bigemina and B. bovis, often present together, were widespread, whereas B. major was only present in a small number of localities. No convincing evidence of B. divergens infection was found. By examination of Giemsa stained blood smears T. orientalis, T. annulata and a Babesia sp. were detected.
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Abstract
Live vaccines against hemoparasitic diseases in livestock are based on parasites derived from culture (Theileria annulata), from blood of infected animals (Babesia bovis, Babesia bigemina, Anaplasma centrale, (attenuated) Anaplasma marginale and Cowdria ruminantium), and from ticks (Theileria parva). The T. annulata attenuated cultured schizont vaccine is safe for all varieties of cattle. Blood derived vaccines are recommended mainly for young cattle, the age limit varying with the different vaccines and breeds of cattle. In older animals, monitoring of the individual response is needed. Immunization against T. parva requires simultaneous or postinoculation chemotherapy. The potential for accidental transmission of disease agents exists with all blood derived vaccines. Various degrees of resistance to field infection have been reported in animals immunized with live vaccines. Nevertheless, all of them engender a level of protection against natural challenge that justifies their use in field vaccination. Chemotherapy or chemoprophylaxis may prevent establishment of infection with the vaccinal parasites, and thus may interfere with elaboration of immunity. Outbreaks of disease in vaccinated herds, caused by antigenic variants among the tick-transmitted parasites, have been observed mainly in Babesia infections. In recent years, the main efforts towards improvement of live vaccines have been in the direction of replacing blood- and tick-derived parasites by those cultured in vitro under controlled standardized conditions.
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Abstract
Development in and transmission of hemoparasites by tick vectors are phenomena closely synchronized with the tick feeding cycle. In all known life cycles, initial infection of tick tissues occurs in midgut epithelial cells and transmission is effected as ticks feed after parasites have developed and multiplied in salivary glands. Many factors reviewed affect development and transmission of hemoparasites by ticks including age of ticks, artificial temperature, climate and/or season, tick stage or sex, hemoparasite variation, concurrent infection of ticks with other pathogens, host cell susceptibility, transovarial transmission, effect of hemoparasites on tick biology, and the effect of infecting parasitemia level in cattle on infection rates in ticks. Four hemoparasites of cattle, Anaplasma marginale, Cowdria ruminantium, Theileria parva, and Babesia spp., are all dependent on ticks for biological transmission. Babesia is transmitted transovarially whereas the other three are transmitted transstadially. Mechanical transfer of infective blood via fomites and mouthparts of biting arthropods is also a major means of transmission for Anaplasma marginale but not of the others. Potential control methods for hemoparasites that target parasites as they are developing in their respective tick hosts include tick control, vaccines (against ticks and parasites), and drugs (against ticks and parasites). Successful application of control strategies will be dependent upon thorough understanding of parasite developmental cycles, biology of the tick vectors and the immune response of cattle to ticks and to hemoparasites. The most effective control measures will be those that are targeted against both ticks and the hemoparasites they vector.
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Nari A. Strategies for the control of one-host ticks and relationship with tick-borne diseases in South America. Vet Parasitol 1995; 57:153-65. [PMID: 7597780 DOI: 10.1016/0304-4017(94)03117-f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
A variety of hemoparasites occurs in ruminants of South America (12 degrees 00'N-56 degrees 00'S), but there is consensus on the significant economic impact of babesiosis (Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina) and anaplasmosis (Anaplasma marginale). The tick vector for the Babesia spp. for the whole region is Boophilus microplus which has been the most important target in control/eradication programs. Boophilus microplus and many different hematophagous diptera species are considered vectors of A. marginale. In areas where babesiosis and anaplasmosis are present, the wide range of climates (tropical, subtropical, temperate), husbandry practices (subsistence, extensive, intensive), and tick control strategies has led to the concepts of enzootic stability and instability. Within this framework, six control strategies for Boophilus microplus can be identified: (1) absolute tick control--with the establishment of quarantine areas and the implementation of state legislation; (2) absolute tick control in marginal areas--using local epidemiological knowledge, strategic treatments, quarantine areas and the intervention of the state; (3) prophylactic treatment--with a predetermined acaricide treatment schedule aimed at reducing tick burdens to an acceptably low level; (4) threshold treatment--acaricides are applied by the farmer whenever the number of ticks on cattle exceed a threshold level; (5) opportunistic treatment--acaricides are applied when cattle are assembled for other purposes; (6) integrated tick control--principally involving the combination of acaricides with the use of tick-resistant crossbred cattle.
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