Anaplasma Platys Research Articles

Haemoprotozoan and haemorickettsial carrier status in pet and community owned dogs of south India

The increasing population of dogs and changes in the climatic conditions have resulted in the emergence and re-emergence of vector-borne diseases in canines. These vectors borne diseases in canines pose a diagnostic challenge to the field veterinarians because of co-infections with several pathogens. Comprehensive data on the prevalence of haemoparasites and haemorickettsiales in pet and community owned dogs from south India are scant. Hence, the present study aims to find and compare the prevalence of these infections in the pet and the community owned dogs of Kerala, a south Indian state. Two hundred and seventy-two pets and 150 community owned dogs were examined by microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for infections with different heamoparasites and haemorickettsials from January 2018–November 2020 in the state of Kerala. A high prevalence of Babesia gibsoni infection (42.2–60.0 %) in pet and community owned dogs, followed by Babesia vogeli (5.8–39.3 %), Hepatozoon canis (0.7–28.0 %), Trypanosoma evansi (0.0–27.3 %), Ehrlichia canis (0.3–0.6 %) and Anaplasma platys (0.0–0.6 %) was observed in the present study. Eighty-eight per cent (132/150) of the community owned dogs and 49.2 % (134/272) of the pet dogs were positive for at least one pathogen. Phylogenetic analysis based on the partial nucleotide sequences of 18S rRNA and TRAP gene of B. gibsoni, 18S rRNA genes of B. vogeli and H. canis and RoTat, 1.2 virB9 and 16S rRNA genes of T. evansi, E. canis and A. platys, respectively was carried out. B. vogeli, H. canis, E. canis and A. platys revealed genetic relatedness between the Indian isolates and the isolates from other countries. However, B. gibsoni isolates from the Indian sub-continent were genetically unique compared to other Asian isolates. The clustering of T. evansi isolates from India in two clades viz., livestock origin (cattle, buffalo) and others indicated their genetic variability. The present study summarizes the prevalence of some of the haemoparasites and haemorickettsials in the dog populations of Kerala (south India) and also determined their genetic relationship with the isolates prevalent in dogs in other countries.

Canine vector-borne infections of working dogs of the Sri Lanka Air Force, and free roaming, and privately owned dogs

Canine vector-borne infections (CVBIs) are a global health problem. The military working dogs of Sri Lanka die at an early age, and CVBIs have been a leading speculated cause. We examined CVBIs in the working dogs of the Sri Lanka air force (SLAF) and free-roaming dogs (FRDs) and privately owned dogs (PODs) country-wide. Giemsa-stained smears were prepared and conventional PCR-positive DNA was subjected to sequencing and phylogeny. Of the 668 dogs sampled, 212 (31.7%) had one or more CVBIs. The prevalence of infections among the FRDs (40.0%) was significantly higher than SLAF working dogs (30.0%; χ2 = 10.5216; p = 0.0012) and PODs (26.2%; χ2 = 5.3414, p = 0.0208) but not between SLAF dogs and PODs (χ2 = 1.7655, p = 0.1838). Many infected dogs were asymptomatic (57.4%), which was higher among the FRDs. Seven infectious agents were identified: Babesia gibsoni, B. canis, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys, Leishmania sp., Hepatozoon canis, and filaria worms. The most common infection was B. gibsoni (13.8%), followed by E. canis (9.9%). Three tick species: Rhipicephalus linneai, Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides and Haemophysalis bispinosa were found infesting the dogs. The SLAF dogs were thoroughly quarantined upon arrival, but the infection prevalence was similar to PODs.

Molecular detection of Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Bartonella spp. in dogs treated at a veterinary teaching clinic in Peru

In recent years, vector-borne diseases have become widespread throughout the world and affect the health of humans and domestic animals. These diseases spread to areas where their primary vectors, fleas and ticks, thrive, particularly in tropical and subtropical climate regions, providing ideal conditions for their proliferation. The growing closeness between people and their pets increases the likelihood of bites from these ectoparasites, which represents a latent zoonotic risk. Therefore, the objective of the study was to determine the presence of Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., and Bartonella spp. in dogs treated at the Small Animal Clinic of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, located in Lima, Peru. Blood samples from 214 dogs were molecularly analyzed for hemopathogen detection. The results revealed prevalences of 2.6 % (6/214) for Anaplasma platys, 5.14 % (11/214) for Ehrlichia canis, and 0.46 % (1/214) for Bartonella rochalimae. No statistically significant relationship was found between the animal infection and the age, sex, breed, presence of fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) and ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), and locality. This study reported molecularly for the first time the presence of A. platys, E. canis, and B. rochalimae in dogs from Lima city, and demonstrates the occurrence of zoonotic pathogens in pets treated at the veterinary clinic.

Accurate Diagnosis of Tick-borne Diseases in Working Dogs: The Impact of Unseen Risk Factors

Aims: Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) are a significant concern in India due to their widespread prevalence and impact on working dogs. This study aimed to screen National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) dogs in Arakkonam for canine hemoprotozoans using microscopy and PCR, while also assessing haematological and serum biochemical parameters as a part of regular health check-up. Methodology: The study was conducted in April 2024 at the 4th Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu, India. Blood samples from 39 dogs were examined using microscopy, complete blood count (CBC), serum biochemistry analysis, and PCR, including both hemoprotozoan and nested hemoprotozoan panels. The data related to hematological and serum biochemical parameters, as well as the molecular prevalence of hemoprotozoans, were statistically analyzed using Mean ± SD and Fisher's exact test in SPSS software. Results: While microscopy did not detect piroplasms, PCR revealed Babesia spp. (28.2%), Ehrlichia canis (2.56%), and Anaplasma platys (23.1%). Nested PCR further identified Babesia gibsoni (56.4%) being the most prevalent, followed by Babesia vogeli (10.3%). Coinfections were observed in 23% (9/39) of dogs. Older dogs (>1 year) had a significantly higher infection rate than younger dogs. Labrador Retrievers showed higher infection rates, suggesting a possible breed-specific susceptibility. Conclusion Despite tick control efforts, NDRF dogs remain at high risk due to environmental factors and interactions with stray dogs. Subclinical infections highlight the need for regular screenings and preventive measures. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive disease management strategies, including treatment of infected dogs, environmental tick control, and adherence to preventive protocols to potentially reduce transmission risks.

Identification of novel bovine leukocyte antigen alleles and association of BoLA-DRB3.2*020:02:01 with resistance to Theileria orientalis infection in crossbred Kedah-Kelantan cattle: a pilot study.

The bovine leukocyte antigen (BoLA) gene is a significant genetic part of the immune system and has been used as a disease marker in cattle. In this study, we detected Theileria orientalis, T. sinensis, Anaplasma marginale, Anaplasma platys, Candidatus Mycoplasma haemobos and Trypanosoma evansi by PCR amplification and sequencing of the amplicons. The allelic association of the BoLA-DRB3.2 gene with blood pathogen disease resistance and susceptibility in 87 Kedah-Kelantan x Brahman (KKB) and 38 Bali cattle was determined by Fisher's exact test and Cochran Mantel Haenszel (CMH) correction test. Sequence-based typing of the BoLA-DRB3.2 gene identified 43 alleles (27 previously reported alleles and 16 novel alleles) across the two cattle breeds. Alignment analysis of the 16 novel alleles revealed 90.7-95.8% and 85-92% nucleotide and amino acid identities, with the reference allele, BoLA-DRB3*016:01 cDNA clone NR-1. BoLA-DRB3*009:02 (25.6%) and BoLA-DRB3*036:01 (36%) were the most frequent alleles in KKB and Bali cattle, respectively. In KKB cattle, BoLA-DRB3*020:02:01 was significantly associated with resistance to T. orientalis whereas *007:01 and *009:02 were significantly associated with resistance to C. Mycoplasma haemobos. Also, DRB3*017:01 was associated with susceptibility to T. orientalis in KKB cattle. In the Bali cattle, BoLA-DRB3*015:01 was found to be a genetic marker of susceptibility to C. Mycoplasma haemobos infection. Therefore, this study identified BoLA-DRB3.2 alleles associated with resistance and susceptibility to T. orientalis infection in KKB cattle and susceptibility to C. Mycoplasma haemobos infection in Bali cattle for the first time. Therefore, this study suggests that these BoLA-DRB3 resistance alleles could be used as candidate markers for selection, whereas susceptibility alleles could be used as candidate markers for culling in the beef industry.

Surveillance of tick-borne pathogens in domestic dogs from Chad, Africa

BackgroundTick-borne pathogens are understudied among domestic animals in sub-Saharan Africa but represent significant threats to the health of domestic animals and humans. Specifically, additional data are needed on tick-borne pathogens in Chad, Africa. Surveillance was conducted among domestic dogs in Chad for selected tick-borne pathogens to measure (1) the prevalence of antibodies against Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi, and Ehrlichia spp.; (2) the prevalence of infections caused by Hepatozoon spp., Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys, and Babesia spp.; and (3) associations of pathogens with demographic, spatial, and temporal factors. Blood samples were collected from domestic dogs at three time points (May 2019, November 2019, June 2020) across 23 villages in southern Chad.ResultsOf the 428 dogs tested with the IDEXX SNAP 4Dx test in May 2019, 86% (n = 370, 95% CI = 83–90%) were positive for antibodies to Ehrlichia spp., 21% (n = 88, 95% CI = 17–25%) were positive for antibodies to Anaplasma spp., and 0.7% (n = 3, 95% CI = 0.1–2%) were positive for antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi. Four different pathogens were detected via PCR. Hepatozoon spp. were most commonly detected (67.2–93.4%, depending on the time point of sampling), followed by E. canis (7.0-27.8%), A. platys (10.1–22.0%), and Babesia vogeli (0.4–1.9%). Dogs were coinfected with up to three pathogens at a single time point, and coinfections were most common in May 2019 compared to November 2019 and May 2020.ConclusionsOverall, this study provides new data about the epidemiology of tick-borne pathogens in domestic dogs in Chad, with potential implications for dog and human health.

Molecular Screening and Genetic Identification of Anaplasma platys in Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus s. l.) Infested on Stray Dogs in Taiwan.

Anaplasma platys is a tick-borne zoonotic pathogen of canines. In this study, the presence of A. platys was screened for in brown dog ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus s. l.) infesting stray dogs in Taiwan to determine overall prevalence. This study represents the first instance of genetic identification of A. platys in brown dog ticks in Taiwan. In total, we examined 324 brown dog ticks for A. platys infection by nested polymerase chain reaction assay targeting the 16S ribosomal RNA gene. The general prevalence of A. platys infection was 3.1%, with 3.6%, 4.0%, and 2.1% in nymph, female, and male ticks, respectively. Monthly prevalence of infection was observed from May to September. Genetic relatedness was determined by comparing the sequences of the 16S rRNA gene obtained from six Taiwan strains and seventeen other strains, representing six genospecies of Anaplasma spp. and three outgroups (Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia rickettsia, and Escherichia coli). All Taiwan specimens were shown to genetically belong to the A. platys group, and could be clearly discriminated from other Anaplasma spp. Genetic similarities revealed a 100% identity match with various A. platys documented in GenBank. This study highlights the epidemiological importance of geographical transmission of A. platys among dogs and the possible risk for human infections in Taiwan.

Prevalence, risk factors, and hematologic changes in dogs from Baja California with presence of Ehrlichia spp., and coinfection with Anaplasma spp.

Ehrlichia and Anaplasma are obligate intracellular, gram-negative bacteria with tropism for hematopoietic cells, especially leukocytes and platelets. There are several Ehrlichia species that infect dogs. Ehrlichia canis is transmitted by Rhipicephalus sanguineus and replicates within monocytes and macrophages, leading to canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, a disease of worldwide distribution. The clinical signs are varied and non-specific. Anaplasma has two species that infect dogs, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma platys, the second also transmitted by Rhipicephalus sanguineus. This study aimed to evaluate the epidemiology and hematologic changes associated with the presence of Ehrlichia spp. and Anaplasma spp. coinfection in dogs from Baja California. Complete hematological analysis, examination of buffy coat smears, and ELISA tests were performed on blood samples from three veterinary diagnostic laboratories from Mexicali and Tijuana cities in Baja California, Mexico. A total of 5,469 dog samples were analyzed. The overall prevalence of Ehrlichia spp., was 4.79%, with a distribution of 6.3% in Mexicali (OR: 2.39 CI: 1.69-3.17) and 2.5% in Tijuana. The peak of infection was found in September. Contact with other dogs and tick infestation were the risk factors associated with infection (P < 0.05). There was 96% co-infection only in Tijuana and 0% in Mexicali. Anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hyperproteinemia are associated with Ehrlichia spp., and Ehrlichia/Anaplasma infection. In view of the foregoing, we have to maintain epidemiologic vigilance, as well as look further into the ticks present in the state and the possibility of transmission of unusual pathogens.

Molecular detection of Anaplasma platys in dogs in Nineveh province, Iraq

Molecular detection of Anaplasma platys in dogs in Nineveh province, Iraq

Metabarcoding using nanopore sequencing enables identification of diverse and zoonotic vector-borne pathogens from neglected regions: A case study investigating dogs from Bhutan

The diversity and prevalence of canine vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in Bhutan have to date remained unexplored, whilst recent epidemiological surveys in other South Asian nations have found diseases caused by VBPs to be rife in local dog populations. Importantly, many of such VBPs can infect people as well, with a building body of evidence identifying potentially zoonotic rickettsial organisms infecting humans in Bhutan. Given the lack of data on canine pathogens in Bhutan we employed a suite of deep-sequencing metabarcoding methods using Oxford Nanopore Technologies' MinION™ device to holistically characterise the bacterial, apicomplexan and filarial worm blood-borne pathogens of dogs in the country's south. Of the 95 stray, owned and community dogs sampled 78% (95% CI = 69%–85%) were infected with at least one VBP. Pathogen species detected were highly diverse including the bacteria Mycoplasma haemocanis in 16% (95% CI: 10–24%), Ehrlichia canis in 4% (95% CI: 2–10%), Anaplasma platys in 2% (95% CI: 0.5–7%) of dogs as well as the zoonotic species Bartonella clarridgeiae in 1% (95% CI: 0.1–6%), a potentially novel Bartonella spp. and an Ehrlichia chaffeensis-like bacterium, both in 1% (95% CI: 0.1–6%) of dogs. The apicomplexan haemoparasites Hepatozoon canis in 62% (95% CI: 52–71%), Babesia gibsoni in 45% (95% CI: 36–55%) and Babesia vogeli in 3% (95% CI: 1–9%) of dogs were also detected. Finally, 5% (95% CI: 2–12%) of dogs were found to be infected with the filarioid Acanthocheilonema reconditum and 1% (95% CI: 0.1–6%) with zoonotic Dirofilaria sp. hongkongensis. One canine was found positive to the filarioid Setaria tundra, a species normally found infecting cervids. The elucidated diversity of VBP communities highlights the strength of assumption-free diagnostics, such as metabarcoding, in detecting rare, novel, and unexpected pathogens. This approach to identifying pathogen diversity is of critical importance when investigating regions and populations that have thus far been neglected, with the findings aiding the development of future One Health informed strategies for disease control.

First molecular survey of tick-borne protozoan and bacterial pathogens in the questing tick population in Bangladesh

Questing ticks carry various tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) that are responsible for causing tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in humans and animals around the globe, especially in the tropics and sub-tropics. Information on the distribution of ticks and TBPs in a specific geography is crucial for the formulation of mitigation measures against TBDs. Therefore, this study aimed to survey the TBPs in the questing tick population in Bangladesh. A total of 2748 questing hard ticks were collected from the pastures in Sylhet, Bandarban, Sirajganj, Dhaka, and Mymensingh districts through the flagging method. After morphological identification, the ticks were grouped into 142 pools based on their species, sexes, life stages, and collection sites. The genomic DNA extracted from tick specimens was screened for 14 pathogens, namely Babesia bigemina (AMA-1), Babesia bovis (RAP-1), Babesia naoakii (AMA-1), Babesia ovis (18S rRNA), Theileria luwenshuni (18S rRNA), Theileria annulata (Tams-1), Theileria orientalis (MPSP), Anaplasma marginale (groEL), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (16S rRNA), Anaplasma bovis (16S rRNA), Anaplasma platys (16S rRNA), Ehrlichia spp. (16S rRNA), Rickettsia spp. (gltA), and Borrelia (Bo.) spp. (flagellin B) using genus and species-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. The prevalence of the detected pathogens was calculated using the maximum likelihood method (MLE) with 95 % confidence interval (CI). Among 2748 ixodid ticks, 2332 (84.86 %) and 416 (15.14 %) were identified as Haemaphysalis bispinosa and Rhipicephalus microplus, respectively. Haemaphysalis bispinosa was found to carry all the seven detected pathogens, while larvae of R. microplus were found to carry only Bo. theileri. Among the TBPs, the highest detection rate was observed in A. bovis (20/142 pools, 0.81 %, CI: 0.51–1.20), followed by T. orientalis (19/142 pools, 0.72 %, CI: 0.44–1.09), T. luwenshuni (9/142 pools, 0.34 %, CI: 0.16–0.62), B. ovis (4/142 pools, 0.15 %, CI: 0.05 – 0.34) and Bo. theileri (4/142 pools, 0.15 %, CI: 0.05–0.34), Ehrlichia ewingii (3/142 pools, 0.11 %, CI: 0.03–0.29), and Babesia bigemina (1/142, 0.04 %, CI: 0.00 – 0.16). This study reports the existence of T. luwenshuni, E. ewingii, and Bo. theileri in Bangladesh for the first time. The novel findings of this study are the foremost documentation of transovarian transmission of B. bigemina and E. ewingii in H. bispinosa and also provide primary molecular evidence on the presence of E. ewingii and Bo. theileri in H. bispinosa. Therefore, this study may shed light on the circulating TBPs in ticks in the natural environment and thereby advocate awareness among physicians and veterinarians to control and prevent TBDs in Bangladesh.

Molecular Detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Small Mammals and Infesting Ticks in Laikipia County, Kenya.

Anaplasmosis is a set of disease conditions of various mammals caused by bacteria species of the genus Anaplasma. These are sub-microscopic, Gram-negative, obligate intracellular pathogens that infect both vertebrate and invertebrate hosts. Significant species that infect domestic and wildlife animals include Anaplasma marginale, Anaplasma ovis, Anaplasma mesaeterum, Anaplasma platys, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Although A. phagocytophilum has a widespread distribution, there are only a few epidemiological reports from sub-Saharan Africa. This study focused on molecular detection and characterization of A. phagocytophilum in small mammals and their infesting ticks in Laikipia County, Kenya. A total of 385 blood and 84 tick archival samples from small mammals (155 females and 230 males) were analyzed. The blood samples were subjected to a nested PCR-HRM melt analysis using species-specific primers to amplify the 16S ribosomal RNA genes. The ticks were also subjected to nested PCR-HRM involving 16S rRNA gene primers. Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA was detected in 19 out of 385 samples using species-specific 16S rRNA gene primers giving a prevalence of 4.9% for A. phagocytophilum. Analysis of the tick's samples using 16S rRNA gene species-specific primers also detected A. phagocytophilum in 3 samples from Haemaphysalis leachi ticks (3/84) equivalent to prevalence of 3.6%. Sequencing of 16S rRNA PCR products confirmed A. phagocytophilum in small mammals and ticks' samples. Phylogenetic analysis of the haplotype from this study demonstrated a close ancestral link with strains from Canis lupus familiaris, Alces alces, Apodemus agrarius, and ticks (Haemaphysalis longicornis) reported in Europe, China, and Africa. Comparison was also made with a known pathogenic A. phagocytophilum variant HA and a nonpathogenic variant 1 that were clustered into a distinctive clade different form haplotypes detected in this study. All the haplotype sequences for A. phagocytophilum from this study were submitted and registered in GenBank under the accession numbers OQ308965-OQ308976. Our study shows that small mammals and their associated ticks harbor A. phagocytophilum. The vector competence for H. leachi in A. phagocytophilum transmission should further be investigated.

Molecular survey of Piroplasmida, Hepatozoon spp. and Anaplasmataceae in anemic and thrombocytopenic dogs from Uruguay

Canine tick-borne diseases, such as babesiosis, rangeliosis, hepatozoonosis, anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis, are of veterinarian relevance, causing mild or severe clinical cases that can lead to the death of the dog. The aim of this study was detecting tick-borne protozoan and rickettsial infections in dogs with anemia and/or thrombocytopenia in Uruguay. A total of 803 domestic dogs were evaluated, and 10% were found positive (detected by PCR) at least for one hemoparasite. Sequence analysis confirmed the presence of four hemoprotozoan species: Rangelia vitalii, Babesia vogeli, Hepatozoon canis and Hepatozoon americanum, and the rickettsial Anaplasma platys. The most detected hemoparasite was R. vitalii, followed by H. canis and A. platys. This is the first report of B. vogeli in Uruguay and the second report of H. americanum in dogs from South America. The results highlight the importance for veterinarians to include hemoparasitic diseases in their differential diagnosis of agents causing anemia and thrombocytopenia.

Detection of Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. in dogs from a veterinary teaching hospital in Italy: a retrospective study 2012–2020

Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys and Ehrlichia canis, responsible of diseases in dogs, are tick-borne pathogens with a proven or potential zoonotic role that have shown increasing prevalence worldwide. The aims of this retrospective study were to assess the frequency of Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. exposure in dogs tested in a veterinary teaching hospital in Italy over a 9-year period, to compare the performance of the diagnostic tests used, to evaluate correlations with clinical data, and to genetically analyse the identified bacteria. During the study period, 1322 dogs tested by at least one of the rapid immunoenzymatic test, indirect immunofluorescent antibody test or end-point PCR assay for Anaplasmataceae detection were included. Dogs were tested if they had clinical signs or clinicopathological alteration or risk factors related to infection, and if they were potential blood-donor animals. Ninety-four of 1322 (7.1%) dogs tested positive for at least one pathogen: 53 (4.3%) for A. phagocytophilum, one (0.1%) for A. platys and 63 (4.6%) for E. canis. The number of dogs tested increased and the positivity rate progressively declined over the years. Comparison of tests showed a near-perfect agreement between serological tests and a poor agreement between PCR and indirect assays. A breed predisposition has been highlighted for A. phagocytophilum infection in hunting breed dogs and for E. canis infection in mixed breed dogs. Phylogeny confirmed potential zoonotic implications for A. phagocytophilum and showed no correlation of the identified bacteria with the geographical origin. Our study provides new insights into possible risk factors in dogs and evidenced discordant results between different tests, suggesting that a combination of serological and molecular assays is preferable for a correct diagnosis.

Next-generation sequencing metabarcoding assays reveal diverse bacterial vector-borne pathogens of Mongolian dogs

Bacterial vector-borne pathogens (BVBPs) negatively impact canine health worldwide, with several also being zoonotic, posing an additional disease risk to humans. To date, BVBPs have been reported in humans and various sylvatic and domestic animal hosts across multiple Mongolian aimags (provinces); however, there has been no published data on these pathogens within Mongolia’s canine populations. Collection of such data is important given Mongolia’s size, diverse number of climatic regions, and large population of dogs, most of which closely share their environment with humans and livestock. Therefore, a bacteria-targeting next-generation sequencing metabarcoding (mNGS) assay was used to test the feasibility of mNGS as a proof-of-concept study to ascertain the detection of BVBP in 100 Mongolian dogs. The majority of dogs (n = 74) were infected with at least one of six BVBPs identified; including three species of haemoplasmas (also known as haemotropic mycoplasmas, n = 71), Bartonella rochalimae (n = 3), Ehrlichia spp. (n = 2) and Anaplasma platys (n = 1). Univariable analysis found sex, housing, and role of the dog to be associated with BVBP infection. Male dogs had 4.33 (95% CI: 1.61–11.62, P = 0.003) times the odds of infection with BVBPs compared to females. The majority of dogs included in this study were kept outdoors and had regular direct contact with both livestock and humans, indicating that dogs may contribute to the transmission and dissemination of BVBPs in Mongolia and could act as epidemiological sentinels. This study underscores the importance of pathogen surveillance studies in under-researched regions, reinforces the efficacy of mNGS as an explorative diagnostic tool, and emphasises the need for further larger-scale seroprevalence studies of Mongolian dogs.

Ocorrência de patógenos transmitidos pelo carrapato Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato em cães na região semiárida do estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of infection by Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys, Babesia vogeli, and Hepatozoon canis in dogs from the semiarid region of Rio Grande do Norte state. Also, we evaluated the characteristics that favor the infection by E. canis and the presence of Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. ticks. For that, 120 dogs were included, from which blood samples were collected for DNA extraction and molecular diagnosis of these four pathogens. Anamnesis and physical examination were performed on each patient, and all properties were characterized. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to verify the association of the studied variables. The most prevalent pathogen in the study was E. canis (13.3%), followed by A. platys (11.7%), H. canis (6%) and B. vogeli (6%). Correspondence analysis performed between E. canis positivity and the variables studied showed the influence of factors such as tick history, non-vaccination and non-use of antiparasitic medications. The main environmental factor observed in the infection by E. canis was the presence of trees and vegetation in the residences. Recognizing these characteristics can help elaborate prevention and control strategies since environmental management activities seek to reduce the interaction between vector and host and, consequently, the exposure to diseases.

Co-infecção de patógenos transmitidos por carrapatos e Leishmania sp. em cães com sinais sugestivos para leishmaniose em uma área endêmica no nordeste do Brasil

ABSTRACT: The present study aimed to investigate the occurrence of Leishmania spp., hemotropic Mycoplasma spp., tick-borne pathogens (TBP), and co-infection in dogs with clinical signs suggestive of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). It also aimed to determine the factors associated with infection and to map the distribution of co-infected dogs in an endemic area in the Northeast region of Brazil. Blood samples from 168 dogs were evaluated for serological analysis to Leishmania spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp., and molecular assays to Leishmania spp., Anaplasma platys, Ehrlichia canis, Babesia spp., and hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. In serological and molecular analysis, 29.8% and 5.9% of dogs were co-infected. In the regression analysis, seropositivity for Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp., and Leishmania spp. was significantly associated with the presence of petechiae, young dogs, and weight loss. Serology revealed that co-exposure with Babesia spp. and Ehrlichia spp. was associated with fever and thrombocytopenia, and there was an association between seropositivity for Ehrlichia spp. and Babesia spp. in dogs seropositive for Leishmania spp. The presence of hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. DNA was associated with anorexia. Thus, dogs with clinical VL have co-infection with other pathogens, reinforcing the importance of this study for a better understanding of these co-infections in dogs from endemic areas.

First report of dog ticks and tick-borne pathogens they are carrying in Malawi.

Ticks are vectors for transmitting tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in animals and humans. Therefore, tick identification is necessary to understand the distribution of tick species and the pathogens they carry. Unfortunately, data on dog ticks and the TBPs they harbor in Malawi are incomplete. This study aimed to identify dog ticks and the TBPs they transmit in Malawi. One hundred thirty-two ticks were collected from 87 apparently healthy but infested domestic dogs in four districts of Malawi, which were pooled into 128 tick samples. The ticks were morphologically identified under a stereomicroscope using identification keys, and species identification was authenticated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) through the amplification and sequencing of 12S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (CO1) genes. The tick species identified were Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (58.3%), Haemaphysalis elliptica (32.6%), and Hyalomma truncatum (9.1%). Screening for TBPs using species-specific PCR assays revealed that 48.4% of the ticks were infected with at least one TBP. The TBP detection rates were 13.3% for Anaplasma platys, 10.2% for Babesia rossi, 8.6% for B. vogeli, 6.3% for Ehrlichia canis, 3.9% for A. phagocytophilum, 3.1% for B. gibsoni, 2.3% for B. canis and 0.8% for Hepatozoon canis. Co-infections of up to three pathogens were observed in 48.4% of the positive samples. This is the first study to identify dog ticks and the TBPs they harbor in Malawi. These findings provide the basis for understanding dog tick distribution and pathogens they carry in Malawi. This study necessitates the examination of ticks from more study locations to have a better picture of tick challenge, and the development of ticks and tick-borne disease control methods in Malawi.

Molecular survey on vector-borne pathogens in clinically healthy stray cats in Zaragoza (Spain)

BackgroundIn Europe, feline vector-borne infections are gaining importance because of the changing climate, expanding habitats of potential vectors and expanding pathogen reservoirs. The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in stray cats in Zaragoza, Spain, and to investigate potential risk factors for infection, including feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).MethodsBlood samples from stray cats presented to the veterinary faculty in Zaragoza between February 2020 and 2022 were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Bartonella henselae, Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia spp., haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., Hepatozoon spp., Leishmania infantum, piroplasms and microfilariae at the LABOKLIN laboratory. The cats were also tested for FeLV and FIV by PCR.ResultsNearly half of the cats (158/332, 47.6%) were positive for at least one VBP. Hepatozoon spp. were detected in 25.6%, haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. in 22.9%, B. henselae in 9.3% and L. infantum in 2.1% of the cats. Male sex had a statistically significant association with test results for haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. (odds ratio 1.38 [1.21;1.57]); regionality with Hepatozoon spp., B. henseale and FIV; and seasonality with Hepatozoon spp., haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., L. infantum and FeLV (P ≤ 0.05 each). A strong positive correlation was reported for the amount of rainfall and the number of cats that tested positive for Hepatozoon spp. (ρ = 753, P = 0.05). None of the cats tested positive for A. phagocytophilum, A. platys, E. canis, Rickettsia spp., piroplasms, or microfilariae. Co-infections with multiple VBPs were detected in 56 out of 332 cats (16.9%). Thirty-one of the 332 cats included in the study (9.3%) tested positive for FeLV (6.9%) and for FIV (3.6%). In 20/31 cats (64.5%) that tested positive for FeLV/FIV, coinfections with VBP were detected (P = 0.048, OR 2.15 [0.99; 4.64]).ConclusionsVBPs were frequently detected in stray cats in Zaragoza. In particular, regionality and seasonality had a statistically significant association with PCR results for most VBPs included in the study.Graphical

Prevalence, Distribution, and Factors Associated with Vector-Borne Pathogen Infections in Pet Dogs from Different Geoclimatic Zones in Sri Lanka

Vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) cause significant diseases in dogs in the tropics. In Sri Lanka, the scarce availability of previous studies on canine VBPs has hampered an accurate evaluation of their prevalence in pet dog populations. In this study, we collected demographic, clinical, and environmental data together with whole blood from 423 pet dogs from three geoclimatic zones in Sri Lanka. All blood samples were screened using a previously validated multiplex qPCR assay to detect the six most prevalent canine VBPs in tropical Asia. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to investigate environmental and host factors as predictors of VBP infections. Overall, 254 dogs (60.1%, 95% CI: 55.3–64.6%) were infected with one or more VBPs. Babesia gibsoni was the most prevalent VBP with 37.4% (95% CI: 32.7–42.2%) of dogs infected followed by Hepatozoon canis (21.04%, 95% CI: 17.25–25.24%), haemotropic mycoplasmas (10.2%, 95% CI: 7.5–13.4%), Babesia vogeli (5%, 95% CI: 3.2–7.5%), Ehrlichia canis (4.5%, 95% CI: 2.7–6.9%), and Anaplasma platys (3.8%, 95% CI: 2.12–6.1%). Predictors of VBP infections included tick infestation for H. canis ( p = 0.05 ) and A. platys ( p = 0.01 ), as well as age for B. gibsoni ( p = 0.01 ) and H. canis ( p = 0.05 ) infection. Local breed ( p = 0.004 ), male dogs ( p = 0.001 ) and flea infestation ( p = 0.04 ) were significantly associated with haemotropic mycoplasma infections suggesting direct-blood exchange through fighting and fleas as a possible means of transmission for these pathogens. Clinical results suggest that B. gibsoni and E. canis caused clinically significant disease, especially in exotic breeds such as German shepherds and Rottweilers compared to the local breeds ( p < 0.001 ). Measures such as educating pet dog owners on the importance of being vigilant on ectoparasite infestation of their pets, preventing pet dogs from interacting with stray or community dogs, and the compliant use of effective ectoparasiticides will be crucial for effective control of VBPs in pet dogs in Sri Lanka.