Molecular prevalence, characterization and associated risk factors of Anaplasma spp. and Theileria spp. in small ruminants in Northern Pakistan

Genetic diversity of tick-borne zoonotic pathogens in ixodid ticks collected from small ruminants in Northern Pakistan

Mapping tick distribution and pathogens in unexplored areas sheds light on their importance in zoonotic and veterinary contexts. In this study, we performed a comprehensive investigation of the genetic diversity of tick and tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) detection infesting/infecting small ruminants across northern Pakistan. We collected 1587 ixodid ticks from 600 goats and sheep, an overall tick infestation rate of 50.2 %. Notably, gender-based infestation rates were higher in female goats and sheep compared to their male counterparts. Age-wise analysis showed that the tick infestation rate was higher in older animals. This study identified 11 ixodid tick species within three genera: Hyalomma, Haemaphysalis, and Rhipicephalus, which were taxonomically classified using 16S rRNA and cytochrome oxidase I (cox1) molecular markers. Sequence analysis indicated that reported ticks are similar to ixodid species found across various Asian and African countries. Tick-borne pathogens were detected by amplifying 16S rRNA and citrate synthase (gltA) for bacterial pathogens and 18S rRNA for apicomplexan parasites. The present study reported a diverse array of TBPs in ticks from the study area, with Rickettsia massiliae (24.5 %) and Theleria ovis (16.4 %) as the most prevalent bacterial and apicomplexan pathogens. Phylogenetically, detected TBPs shared evolutionary relatedness with identical TBPs from old and new world countries. These findings highlight the presence of zoonotic TBPs in ixodid ticks from Pakistan. In addition, it also provides a foundation for future epidemiological research on ticks and TBPs, emphasizing their relevance in both zoonotic and veterinary contexts.

Molecular Epidemiology and Phylogeny of Theileria ovis and Theileria lestoquardi in Sheep and Goats from Southern Punjab, Pakistan

Background: Theileria spp. are responsible for ovine and caprine theileriosis, leading to significant morbidity and mortality in small ruminants. The present study aims to investigate Theileria spp. infections in small ruminants from Southern Punjab in Pakistan, and genetic characterize revealed Theileria spp. isolates. Methods: A total of 93 sheep and 107 goats were sampled between May and August 2022. Blood smears were examined microscopically, and PCR amplification targeting the 18S rRNA gene was performed to detect Theileria spp. Additionally, specific PCR assays targeting 18S rRNA and ms1 partial sequences were used to identify Theileria ovis and T. lestoquardi, respectively.  Results: The prevalence of Theileria spp. was significantly higher using PCR (13.5%) compared to microscopic screening (5%). Sheep showed a higher prevalence rate (19.4%) compared to goats (8.4%) (p = 0.024). Young sheep aged ≤ 1 year were more commonly infected with Theileria spp. (41%) compared to older sheep (p = 0.006). The prevalence of Theileria spp. was higher in sheep-only herds (37.3%) compared to goat-only herds (18%) or mixed-species herds (8.1%) (p = 0.015). The prevalence rates of T. ovis and T. lestoquardi were 9% and 2.5%, respectively, with four animals (2 goats and 2 sheep) showing co-infection. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that our T. ovis 18S rRNA sequence clustered with previously reported sequences from sheep in Turkey, China, Spain, and goats in Tanzania. The obtained T. lestoquardi ms1 partial sequence formed a distinct cluster from other T. lestoquardi isolates in Pakistan and neighboring countries.  Conclusion: Theileria spp. co-circulation in Pakistani small ruminants, particularly the presence of T. ovis and T. lestoquardi, highlights the need for attention from animal health decision-makers due to their financial and health impacts.

Molecular surveillance based on anaplasmosis in domestic small ruminants: First report on zoonotic Anaplasma capra and phylogenetic insights from Faisalabad, Pakistan

Anaplasma is an intracellular alphaproteobacteria that infects diverse blood cell types in animal hosts including small ruminants. Epidemiological and risk factors information on zoonotic anaplasmosis with respect to anaplasmosis in sheep and goats are scarce. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to estimate the prevalence, risk factors of anaplasmosis and phylogenetic investigation of A. capra in sheep and goats from Faisalabad district, Pakistan. Briefly, 384 blood samples were randomly collected from sheep and goats of Faisalabad district, Pakistan, during January to May 2022. The samples were processed for the detection of Anaplasma targeting 16S rRNA gene using PCR. The data regarding disease determinants were collected using a predesigned questionnaire. Out of 384 samples, 131 samples were found positive for Anaplasma spp. with a prevalence rate of 34.11%. The results indicated a significantly higher prevalence of anaplasmosis in goats (41.88%) compared to sheep (22.00%). In addition, the chi square indicated that housing type, tick infestation, gender, tick control practices, age, mix farming, and hygiene were significantly associated with the occurrence of disease. The analysis of multivariate logistic regression expressed gender as the significant risk factor (p = 0.0001, OR = 1.757, CI = 1.305-2.366). The acquired sequences revealed four novel isolates of A. capra (Genbank accession numbers ON834323, ON838209, ON838210, and ON838211). The phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene of A. capra revealed three distinct clusters with 99-100% homology with other isolates from different countries. Our isolates showed higher similarity with isolates from China (KM206273, KP314237, MT799937), Pakistan (ON238129, ON238130, ON238131), Angola (MT898988), India (MZ558066), Iran (MW692362), and Turkey (MT632469) isolated from human, sheep, ticks, goats, cattle, Gaddi goat, Persian Onager (Equus hemionus onager), and Turkish goats, respectively. In conclusion, A. capra is endemic in Punjab, Pakistan, there is a need to conduct large scale surveillance studies to assess the status of this pathogen at human-animal interface as well as to develop effective preventive and control strategies to reduce the economic losses associated with anaplasmosis in small ruminants.

Genetic diversity and prevalence of emerging Rickettsiales in Yunnan Province: a large-scale study

BACKGROUND

Rickettsia and related diseases have been identified as significant global public health threats. This study involved comprehensive field and systematic investigations of various rickettsial organisms in Yunnan Province.

METHODS

Between May 18, 2011 and November 23, 2020, field investigations were conducted across 42 counties in Yunnan Province, China, encompassing small mammals, livestock, and ticks. Preliminary screenings for Rickettsiales involved amplifying the 16S rRNA genes, along with additional genus- or species-specific genes, which were subsequently confirmed through sequencing results. Sequence comparisons were carried out using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST). Phylogenetic relationships were analyzed using the default parameters in the Molecular Evolutionary Genetics Analysis (MEGA) program. The chi-squared test was used to assess the diversities and component ratios of rickettsial agents across various parameters.

RESULTS

A total of 7964 samples were collected from small mammals, livestock, and ticks through Yunnan Province and submitted for screening for rickettsial organisms. Sixteen rickettsial species from the genera Rickettsia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Neoehrlichia, and Wolbachia were detected, with an overall prevalence of 14.72%. Among these, 11 species were identified as pathogens or potential pathogens to humans and livestock. Specifically, 10 rickettsial organisms were widely found in 42.11% (24 out of 57) of small mammal species. High prevalence was observed in Dremomys samples at 5.60%, in samples from regions with latitudes above 4000 m or alpine meadows, and in those obtained from Yuanmou County. Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis were broadly infecting multiple genera of animal hosts. In contrast, the small mammal genera Neodon, Dremomys, Ochotona, Anourosorex, and Mus were carrying individually specific rickettsial agents, indicating host tropism. There were 13 rickettsial species detected in 57.14% (8 out of 14) of tick species, with the highest prevalence (37.07%) observed in the genus Rhipicephalus. Eight rickettsial species were identified in 2375 livestock samples. Notably, six new Rickettsiales variants/strains were discovered, and Candidatus Rickettsia longicornii was unambiguously identified.

CONCLUSIONS

This large-scale survey provided further insight into the high genetic diversity and overall prevalence of emerging Rickettsiales within endemic hotspots in Yunnan Province. The potential threats posed by these emerging tick-borne Rickettsiales to public health warrant attention, underscoring the need for effective strategies to guide the prevention and control of emerging zoonotic diseases in China.

Molecular detection and characterization of Anaplasma ovis, Theileria ovis, and Theileria lestoquardi in sheep and goats in Luxor, Egypt

BACKGROUND

Tick-borne diseases cause economically significant losses to animal production globally, and anaplasmosis and theileriosis are associated with the greatest losses. However, the spread of the relevant pathogens in flocks of domesticated animals in southern Egypt is little understood. Accordingly, in this study, we aimed to determine the prevalences of Anaplasma ovis, Theileria ovis, and Theileria lestoquardi in southern Egyptian sheep and goats through blood tests, and to make a molecular characterization of the A. ovis detected in sheep targeting a specific gene.

RESULTS

We collected blood samples collected from 300 sheep and goats (n=150 /species) in Luxor Province in southern Egypt, and analyzed them for the presence of A. ovis, T. ovis and T. lestoquardi with screening by conventional and nested PCR targeting the msp4 and msp5, 18S rRNA, and merozoite surface protein genes. For A. ovis 140/300 samples (46.66%) were positive overall, with 90/150 (60%) and 50/150 (33.33%) positive samples in sheep and goats, respectively. Two major surface protein genes of A. ovis, msp4 and msp5, were sequenced using DNA extracted from sheep and goat blood samples, for phylogenetic analysis and genotyping. The msp4 gene sequence revealed no significant genetic diversity, to contrast to data on A. ovis strains from other countries. For T. lestoquardi, 8/150 (5.33%) samples were positive in sheep, but no samples were positive in goats (0%). For T. ovis, 32/150 (21.33%) samples were positive in sheep, but no samples were positive in goats (0%). Sequencing targeting the merozoite surface protein gene for T. lestoquardi and the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene for T. ovis revealed no significant genetic diversity in the study, another contrast to data on A. ovis strains from other countries.

CONCLUSION

This study provides valuable data on phylogenetic and molecular classifications of A. ovis, T. ovis and T. lestoquardi found in southern Egyptian sheep and goats. It also represents the first report on detection and molecular characterization of T. lestoquardi in southern Egyptian sheep based on the specific merozoite surface protein gene, thus providing valuable data for molecular characterization of this pathogen in southern Egypt.

Leading report of molecular prevalence of tick borne Anaplasma marginale and Theileria ovis in yaks (Bos grunniens) from Pakistan

Domestic yak (Bos grunniens) is an economically important feature of the mountainous region of Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan where agriculture is restricted and yaks play multiple roles which includes being a source of milk, meat, hides, fuel and power. However little is known about the parasitic infections in Pakistani yaks. Aim of this research was to report the prevalence and genetic diversity of protozoa parasite (Theileria ovis, 18 S rDNA gene was targeted) and an obligate bacterium (Anaplasma marginale, msp-1 gene was amplified) in the blood that was sampled from 202 yaks collected from four districts in Gilgit-Baltistan during January 2023 till January 2024. Results revealed that 6/202 (3%) yaks were of Theileria ovis while 8/202 (4%) were Anaplasma marginale infected. Positive PCR products of both parasites were confirmed by DNA sequencing and their similarity with previously available pathogen sequences was determined by BLAST analysis. Phylogenetic tree indicated that isolates of both parasites displayed genetic. Anaplasma marginale infection varied with the sampling districts and Shigar district had the highest rate of bacterial infection. Cows were significantly more prone to Theileria ovis infection than bulls. Calf and hybrid yaks were more prone to Anaplasma marginale infection. In conclusion, this is the first report that yaks residing the Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan are infected with Theileria ovis and Anaplasma marginale. Similar larger scales studies are recommended in various regions of Gilgit-Baltistan to document the infection rates of these parasites to formulate strategies that will lead to the effective control of these pathogens.

Epidemiology and Phylogeny of Anaplasma ovis with a Note on Hematological and Biochemical Changes in Asymptomatic Goats Enrolled from Four Districts in Punjab, Pakistan

Background: Anaplasma ovis is an intra-erythrocytic gram negative rickettsial bacterium that infects small ruminants, resulting in huge economic losses worldwide. Materials and Methods: The present investigation aims at reporting the molecular prevalence of A. ovis in 1200 asymptomatic goats that were enrolled from 4 districts (Layyah, Lohdran, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Rajanpur) in Punjab, Pakistan by targeting the msp4 gene of bacterium. Risk factors associated with the prevalence of A. ovis and phylogeny of bacterium were also documented. Results: 184 out of 1200 (15%) goat blood samples were infected with A. ovis. The prevalence of the pathogen varied with the sampling sites (p = 0.005), and the highest prevalence was detected in goats from Layyah (19%) followed by Rajanpur (17%), Dera Ghazi Khan (15%), and Lohdran district (9%). The represented partial msp4 gene amplicon was confirmed by Sanger sequencing and deposited to GenBank (OP225957-59). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the amplified isolates resembled the msp4 sequences reported from Iran, Mangolia, Sudan, and the United States. Sex and age of goats, herd composition and size, and the presence of ticks on goats and dogs associated with herds were the rick factors associated with the prevalence of A. ovis. Red blood cells, lymphocytes (%), neutrophils (%), hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels in blood and Aspartate amino transferase, urea, and creatinine levels in serum were disturbed in A. ovis infected goats when compared with uninfected animals. Conclusion: We are reporting the prevalence of A. ovis in Pakistani goats from four districts of Punjab and these data will help in developing the integrated control policies against this tick-borne pathogen that is infecting our goat breeds.

Molecular Epidemiology, Seasonality and Phylogenetic Investigations of Anaplasma ovis in Small Ruminants from Diverse Agro-Climatic Regions of Punjab, Pakistan

Anaplasma (A.) ovis is the most important cause of anaplasmosis in small ruminants. The current study was planned to estimate the molecular prevalence, risk factors, and phylogenetic analysis of A. ovis infection in sheep and goats from different agro-climatic regions of Central and Southern Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 400 jugular blood samples were collected from asymptomatic goats (n = 200) and sheep (n = 200) from the Jhang and Dera Ghazi Khan districts from January 2021 to February, 2023. Two hundred blood samples were collected from each district. Ten union councils (UC) were randomly chosen from each district, and 20 samples were collected from each UC based on the multistage cluster sampling technique. The samples were analyzed with PCR targeting the major surface protein (msp4) gene of A. ovis. The overall molecular prevalence of anaplasmosis was 57.5%. The disease occurrence was higher in Dera Ghazi Khan (61.5%) than in the Jhang district (53.5%). Infection positivity was greater in goats (65.5%) than in sheep (49.5%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that host species [sheep; Odds Ratio (OR) = 3.212; p = 0.000, Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.968-5.242], age (adult; OR = 2.606; p = 0.003, CI = 1.398-4.858), and acaricide use (never; OR = 13.671; p = 0.000, CI = 6.414-26.283) were significantly higher risk for A. ovis in small ruminants (p< 0.05; OR > 1). The sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of four representative isolates in the current study (Genbank numbers; Goats: OQ302202, OQ302203; Sheep: OQ319592, OQ319593) revealed novel strains of A. ovis with 97-100% similarity from different countries. The msp4-based goat isolates showed greater genetic diversity, while sheep genotypes showed homology with isolates from Italy, Spain, Hungary, Cyprus, Spain, Iran, and China. The current surveillance study will help in devising prevention and control strategies regarding anaplasmosis in small ruminants. However, there is a need for further study on the clinicopathological and vector competence aspects of these genotypes.

Seasonality, epidemiology and phylogeny of Theileria ovis with a note on hematological and biochemical changes in asymptomatic infected goats from Pakistan

Caprine theileriosis, caused by Theileria ovis is a serious production issue, especially in the areas that depend on goats and sheep for milk, meat, and other economic benefits. Pakistan has a large goat population, but few reports have been documented from this country regarding PCR-based detection of T. ovis. The molecular prevalence of T. ovis, on a seasonal basis, in various goat breeds enrolled from Muzaffar Garh district of Punjab in Pakistan was determined from October 2018 to September 2019. In this study, 1084 goat blood samples were screened for the detection of T. ovis DNA through PCR-based amplification of 18S rRNA gene. Out of 1084 goats, 12 (1.11%) were infected with T. ovis. The parasite prevalence varied with the sampling seasons (Chi square test, P = 0.008), and the parasite prevalence was highest in goat blood samples collected in summer (2.39%) followed by winter (1.88%). DNA sequencing and BLAST analysis confirmed the presence of T. ovis, and the amplified isolates from the 18S rRNA gene of T. ovis were found to be highly conserved during phylogenetic analysis. Young goats (Fischer exact test, P = 0.022) were found more infected with T. ovis during the winter season. Infected goats had elevated white blood cell counts (Two-sample t-test, P = 0.04), blood urea nitrogen to Creatinine ratio (Two-sample t-test, P = 0.02) and decreased serum Creatinine (Two-sample t-test, P = 0.001) as compared to T. ovis negative goats. We report a relatively low molecular prevalence of T. ovis in goats from the Muzaffar Garh district. However, it is recommended that control measures to eradicate T. ovis infection in goats in this area should be taken.

Molecular Detection and Phylogenetic Characterization of Anaplasma spp. in Dogs from Hainan Province/Island, China

Anaplasmosis is a serious infection which is transmitted by ticks and mosquitos. There are very few reports and studies that have been carried out to understand the prevalence, distribution, and epidemiological profile of Anaplasma spp. infection in dogs in Hainan province/island. In the present study, we have tried to understand the prevalence, distribution, and occurrence of Anaplasma spp. infections in dogs (n = 1051) in Hainan Island/Province to establish a surveillance-based study. The confirmed positive samples by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were subjected to capillary sequencing for further strain-specific confirmation, followed by the construction of phylogenetic trees to determine their genetic relations. Various statistical tools were used to analyze related risk factors. There were three species of Anaplasma detected from the Hainan region; namely, A. phagocytophilum, A. bovis, and A. platys. The overall prevalence of Anaplasma is 9.7% (102/1051). A. phagocytopihum was prevalent in 1.0% of dogs (11/1051), A. bovis was found in 2.7% of dogs (28/1051), and A. platys in 6.0% of dogs (63/1051). Our surveillance-based study conducted to understand the occurrence and distribution pattern of Anaplasma spp. in Hainan will help in designing effective control measures along with management strategies so as to treat and control the infection in the area.

Molecular identification and genetic characterization of Theileria and Anaplasma infection in sheep and goat of North Gujarat, India

Hemoprotozoal diseases are significant health concerns in small ruminants. The present study was conducted to identify and characterize the species of Theileria and Anaplasma in sheep and goats located in different districts of North Gujarat, India. A total of 226 (Banaskantha = 175, Patan = 26, and Bhuj = 25) blood samples were collected from sheep (n = 78) and goats (n = 148), and 46 ticks were collected and identified from sheep and goats. PCR assays were carried out using genus and species-specific primers for Theileria targeting 18S rRNA locus and for Anaplasma targeting the msp5 gene. Overall, 37.2% sheep (29/78) and 10.8% of goats (16/148) were positive for Theileria by PCR, whereas 15.4% of sheep (12/78) and 25.7% goats (38/148) were positive for Anaplasma infection. Moreover, mixed infection was found in 4.4% (10/226) of sheep and goats by PCR. Sanger sequencing of Theileria and Anaplasma positives revealed a high similarity to T. ovis and A. ovis using NCBI blast, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the Anaplasma spp. DNA sequences belonged to the A. ovis group and closely associated with the A. ovis nucleotide sequence strain Haibei isolated in China from sheep (GQ483471). The phylogenetic analysis based on the SSU rRNA locus revealed that the Theileria ovis DNA sequences belonged to the T. ovis group and closely related to MW440586 isolated in Kerala, India, from a goat. The majority of ticks (91.3%) were identified as Hyalomma. In conclusion, Theileria ovis and Anaplasma ovis were commonly identified species in sheep and goats and transmitted mainly by Hyalomma ticks in North Gujarat, India, which is important baseline data for future research and control strategies. This is the first report on Theileria and Anaplasma co-infections in sheep and goats from North Gujarat, India.

Clinical, hematological and molecular evaluation of piroplasma and Anaplasma infections in small ruminants and tick vectors from Kurdistan province, western Iran

Tick-borne haemoparasite infections are a major challenge in small ruminant (SR) production across tropical areas. The present study evaluated the prevalence of Theileria, Babesia and Anaplasma in SRs and their tick vectors and estimated the association between pathogen prevalence with clinical hematological findings among SR populations in Kurdistan province, western Iran. In total, 250 blood samples and 250 tick species (one per animal) were collected from SR populations, along with clinical and hematological examinations. Microscopy of blood smears and molecular analysis were performed to detect potential infection with Theileria, Babesia and Anaplasma. Moreover, haemoparasites were explored in the isolated ticks using semi-nested PCR. Based on microscopy, the prevalence of Theileria, Anaplasma and Babesia infections was 91.2%, 23.2% and 2.4%, respectively. Semi-nested PCR analysis of blood samples demonstrated 86.8%, 78.8% and 14% prevalence for T. ovis, A. ovis and B. ovis, respectively. Dermacentor marginatus and Rhipicephalus turanicus were predominant isolated tick vectors from SR, while D. marginatus was the most contaminated tick in all investigated counties. There were, also, a statistically significant association between the estimated molecular prevalence rates with semi-yellow conjunctiva (A. ovis), body temperature (T. ovis and A. ovis), heart rate (T. ovis and B. ovis), mean white blood cell count (T. ovis and A. ovis), mean red blood cell count (T. ovis and B. ovis), as well as mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration in all haemoparasite infections. Future studies are recommended to reveal the epidemiology of such infections in SRs in Iran.

Molecular prevalence and associated risk factors of Anaplasma ovis in Pakistani sheep

Background

Majority of Pakistani population lives in rural areas and raising animals, especially the small ruminants, is their primary source of income. Anaplasma ovis is known to infect small ruminants globally and causing significant economic losses to livestock owners, however prevalence of Anaplasma ovis has been least investigated from Pakistan despite having a huge sheep population.

Methods

The present study was conducted from June 2021 till December 2021 to report the PCR based prevalence of Anaplasma ovis in the blood samples of sheep (n = 239) that were collected from District Dera Ghazi Khan in Pakistan.

Results

Out of 239 samples, 30 (12.5%) amplified a 347 bp fragment specific for the msp4 gene of Anaplasma ovis. Represented partial msp4 gene sequences were confirmed by Sanger sequencing and deposited to GenBank (OP620757-59). None of the studied epidemiological factors (age, sex, breed, size of herd, dogs with herd, and composition of herd) showed an association (P &gt; 0.05) with the Anaplasma ovis infection in enrolled sheep. Analysis of the amplified partial mSP4 sequence of Anaplasma ovis revealed that this gene is highly conserved as all three sequences were identical and phylogenetically resembled with the msp4 sequences amplified from small ruminants in China, Kenya, and Germany, Turkey, Portugal, Tunisia and India. In conclusion, for the first time, we are reporting a moderate prevalence of Anaplasma ovis prevalence in Pakistani sheep and this data will help in developing the integrated control policies against this newly reported tick-borne disease that is infecting our sheep breeds.

First molecular identification of multiple tick-borne pathogens in livestock within Kassena-Nankana, Ghana

The risk of pathogen transmission continues to increase significantly in the presence of tick vectors due to the trade of livestock across countries. In Ghana, there is a lack of data on the incidence of tick-borne pathogens that are of zoonotic and veterinary importance. This study, therefore, aimed to determine the prevalence of such pathogens in livestock using molecular approaches. A total of 276 dry blood spots were collected from cattle (100), sheep (95) and goats (81) in the Kassena-Nankana Districts. The samples were analyzed using Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) and conventional assays and Sanger sequencing that targeted pathogens including Rickettsia, Coxiella, Babesia, Theileria, Ehrlichia and Anaplasma. An overall prevalence of 36.96% was recorded from the livestock DBS, with mixed infections seen in 7.97% samples. Furthermore, the prevalence of infections in livestock was recorded to be 19.21% in sheep, 14.13% in cattle, and 3.62% in goats. The pathogens identified were Rickettsia spp. (3.26%), Babesia sp. Lintan (8.70%), Theileria orientalis (2.17%), Theileria parva (0.36%), Anaplasma capra (18.48%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (1.81%), Anaplasma marginale (3.26%) and Anaplasma ovis (7.25%). This study reports the first molecular identification of the above-mentioned pathogens in livestock in Ghana and highlights the use of dry blood spots in resource-limited settings. In addition, this research provides an update on tick-borne pathogens in Ghana, suggesting risks to livestock production and human health. Further studies will be essential to establish the distribution and epidemiology of these pathogens in Ghana.

Distribution and Molecular Epidemiology of Anaplasma ovis in Melophagus ovinus and Small Ruminants in Border Regions of South Xinjiang, China

Background: Anaplasma ovis are obligate intracellular bacteria that can endanger human and animal health, and they can be transmitted by arthropod vectors, such as Melophagus ovinus and ticks. Materials and Methods: In this study, 433 specimens, including 370 M. ovinus and 63 sheep blood samples, were collected from nine districts of South Xinjiang to investigate the distribution and molecular epidemiology of A. ovis in M. ovinus and small ruminant. Results: DNA of A. ovis was detected in 109 (25.2%, 109/433) of the 433 samples using PCR and sequencing. The analysis of A. ovis msp4 sequences revealed four different genotypes, including genotype III (47.7%; 52/109), GB3 (34.0%; 37/109), AoGOv3 (15.6%; 17/109), and XJ9 (2.8%; 3/109). Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, A. ovis genotypes GB3, AoGOv3, and XJ9 detected in this study are the first to be reported in M. ovinus, and our data indicate that XJ9 is a novel A. ovis genotype presented herein for the first time. These findings provide important references for the new understanding and prevention of A. ovis in border counties in China.

First Molecular Identification of Babesia, Theileria, and Anaplasma in Goats from the Philippines

Goats are key livestock animals and goat raising is an income-generating venture for smallholder farmers, supporting agricultural development in many parts of the world. However, goat production is often limited by various factors, such as tick-borne diseases. Goat piroplasmosis is a disease caused by apicomplexan parasites Babesia spp. and Theileria spp., while anaplasmosis is caused by bacterial Anaplasma spp. In the Philippines, the presence of Babesia, Theileria, and Anaplasma has not been reported in goats. In this study, DNA obtained from goats were molecularly screened for Babesia/Theileria and Anaplasma. Of 396, 77.02% (305/396) and 38.64% (153/396) were positive for piroplasma and Anaplasma using PCR assays targeting the 18S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes, respectively. Similarly, Babesia ovis was detected in six samples (1.52%). Representative Babesia/Theileria sequences shared 89.97–97.74% identity with each other and were most closely related to T. orientalis, T. annulata, and Theileria spp. Meanwhile, Anaplasma 16SrRNA sequences were related to A. odocoilei, A. platys, and A. phagocytophilum. This is the first molecular identification of B. ovis, Theileria spp., and Anaplasma spp. in goats from the Philippines.

Molecular Detection and Genetic Diversity of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Goats from the Southern Part of Thailand

Tick-borne hemoprotozoan and rickettsial diseases affect the health and productivity of small ruminants in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite the large population of goats in the southern part of Thailand, there is limited information on the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens. In this study, polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the presence of Theileria spp., T. ovis, T. orientalis, Babesia ovis, Anaplasma ovis, and A. marginale in 262 goats from three provinces in the southern part of Thailand. In this investigation, Theileria spp. and A. ovis were detected while T. ovis, B. ovis, and A. marginale were not detected. Overall infection rates of Theileria spp. and A. ovis were 10.3% and 1.5%, respectively. The co-infections of two parasites was observed in 1.5% of goats. Sequence analysis showed the presence of T. luwenshuni and T. orientalis in the goat samples. This study is the first to use the molecular detection of T. orientalis in Thai goats, and presents genetic characterization using the major piroplasm surface protein (MPSP) gene. In the phylogenetic analysis, the T. orientalis MPSP sequence was classified as type 7. The A. ovis major surface protein 4 (MSP4) gene sequences shared high identities and similarity with each other and clustered with isolates from other regions. This study provides information about the prevalence and genetic diversity of tick-borne pathogens in goats in the study area, and is expected to be valuable for the development of effective control measures to prevent disease in animals in Thailand.

Tick-borne haemoparasitic diseases in small ruminants in Pakistan: Current knowledge and future perspectives

Livestock industry is an essential part of Pakistan’s economy, and a variety of ruminants (including sheep and goats) are reared for the increasing demand of milk, meat and hide products. Haemoparasitic illnesses such as theileriosis, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis are a significant health risk for small ruminants in our country. Information regarding distribution patterns, the tick species involved and effective strategies to control tick-borne diseases (TBD) in goats and sheep of Pakistan is limited. To this end, it is required to assess the present rank of TBDs in small ruminants of Pakistan with a note on their vector ticks in order to control and identify the gaps in the knowledge of TBDs. This will recommend areas for future research and will add to the understanding of these diseases and will draw attention to the need for better-quality tools for the diagnosis and control of TBDs in small ruminants of Pakistan.

Molecular evidence, risk factors analysis, and hematological alterations associated with Theileria spp. spillover in captive wild mouflon sheep in Punjab, Pakistan

Background

Landscape anthropization and interaction between domestic and wild animals are the major contributing factors involved in the emergence of new pathogens in wild animals. Theileriosis is an emerging issue of wild ungulates, especially in the tropical and subtropical areas of the globe.

Aims

The current study investigated the mouflon sheep for Theileria infection using molecular methods and hematological analysis.

Methods

This study was conducted on a total of 103 captive wild mouflon sheep present in eight different recreational zoos, and wildlife parks in Punjab, Pakistan to investigate the genotypic prevalence of Theileria spp. by targeting 18S rRNA and molecular evidence for Theileria spillover between domestic and wild mouflon sheep by phylogenetic analysis. The association of assumed risk factors and the effect of Theileria spp. on various hematological parameters were also assessed.

Results

The results depicted that Theileria spp. was prevalent in 8 (7.77%, CI 95%: 3.99-14.59%), and 11 (10.68%, CI 95%: 06.07-18.12%) animals based on microscopy, and PCR, respectively. The phylogenetic analysis of the 18S rRNA gene of Theileria spp. from mouflon revealed a close resemblance with T. annulata from domestic animals. The risk factor analysis revealed that tick infestation, enclosure hygiene, previous tick infestation history, and the presence of wooden logs in the enclosure were significantly (P<0.05) associated with the occurrence of Theileria spp. infection in the captive mouflon sheep of Pakistan. Furthermore, a significant reduction in blood parameters like PCV, RBCs count, Hb, and platelets was observed in Theileria-positive animals.

Conclusion

This study is the first evidence at the molecular level to characterize the spillover of Theileria spp. between the captive wild mouflon sheep and domestic animals of Pakistan, and it will be useful in developing control strategies for emerging theileriosis in captive wild animals.

Anaplasma ovis infection in sheep from Iran: molecular prevalence, associated risk factors, and spatial clustering

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the molecular prevalence and associated risk factors in sheep populations of Iran. To this end, between March 2017 and February 2018 jugular vein blood samples were collected from 1842 apparently healthy sheep from 327 herds in nine provinces in four ecological zones of Iran. A specific nested-PCR targeting the msp4 gene of A. ovis was employed. Fourteen variables were subjected to logistic regression analyses (univariate and multivariate) to specify the potential risk factors for infection. Statistically significant variables in univariate analyses (P ≤ 0.20) were assessed by multivariable logistic regression to control the confounding factors. Anaplasma ovis DNA was detected in 51.1% of herds (167/327) and 28.3% of animals (521/1842). Among geographical zones, herd and animal prevalence was highest in the Persian-Gulf zone (P < 0.001), and among provinces, Lorestan (in west) and Khuzestan (in south-west) had the highest prevalence (P < 0.001). Analysis of factors associated with A. ovis infection revealed that distance from other farms (OR = 2.52, P < 0.001), presence of other animal species in the farm (OR = 2.03, P = 0.046), season (OR = 1.40, P = 0.005), breed (OR = 3.762, P < 0.001), and age of sheep (OR = 1.20, P = 0.049) are potential risks in Iran. The spatial scan statistic in SaTScan recognized two high risks clusters for A. ovis infection in central (Semnan province) and the Persian-Gulf (Khuzestan province) zones amongst the study areas (P < 0.001). Sequence and phylogenetic analysis of the msp4 gene confirmed the detection of A. ovis. This research is the largest study focusing on ovine anaplasmosis in Iran and shows that infected sheep are present in all geographic zones, bioclimatic areas, and provinces.

Molecular detection and prevalence of Theileria ovis and Anaplasma marginale in sheep blood samples collected from Layyah district in Punjab, Pakistan

Theileria ovis and Anaplasma marginale are intracellular pathogens affecting a wide range of animals, causing huge economic losses worldwide. The present study reports the molecular evidence of Theileria ovis and Anaplasma marginale in sheep blood samples (N = 218) collected from Layyah district in Punjab (Pakistan), where economy heavily relies on livestock. A 520 base pair fragment specific for 18S ribosomal RNA gene of Theileria ovis was PCR amplified in 23/218 (10.6%) sheep blood samples, while for Anaplasma marginale, a 265 base pair fragment specific for msp1b gene was generated in 15/218 (6.9%) sheep blood samples. Two blood samples were found co-infected (0.9%) with both parasites. Amplified PCR products of both parasites were confirmed by DNA sequencing and submitted to GenBank. Prevalence of both Theileria ovis (p = 0.3) and Anaplasma marginale (p = 0.4) varied non-significantly among the investigated sheep breeds. Tick burden on dogs present with sheep herds was found associated with Theileria ovis infection in sheep (p = 0.05). It was observed that lambs (p = 0.009), sheep in small herds (p = 0.04), and tick burden on dogs present with sheep herds (p = 0.01) were associated with Anaplasma marginale infection in sheep during the present study. In conclusion, we are reporting a higher prevalence of Theileria ovis than Anaplasma marginale in blood samples of sheep collected from Layyah district. Tick-infested dogs were found to be risk factors for the transmission of both pathogens in sheep, and tick control strategies should be extended to dogs associated with sheep herds in this area.