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Copyright of Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal is the property of World Health Organization and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Case series summary: This case series describes six cases involving seven cats naturally infected with Cytauxzoon felis in Indiana, USA. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed and all available information on signalment, history, clinical and diagnostic findings, treatment, outcome and pathology was reported. Cats infected with C felis were domestic shorthairs, were aged between 2 and 9 years and all but one of the cats were male. The seven infected cats originated from five counties in southwestern Indiana. Six of seven cats were found to have acute cytauxzoonosis based on clinical signs, gross pathologic lesions, observation of C felis in tissues and/or detection of C felis DNA. One cat was identified as a subclinical survivor cat with no known clinical history of cytauxzoonosis. Relevance and novel information: The reported cases are the first confirmed reports of acute and chronic cytauxzoonosis in cats from Indiana and document an expansion in the range of C felis. Veterinary practitioners in Indiana should consider infection with C felis as a differential diagnosis for cats that present with fever, inappetence, lethargy, depression, dehydration, dyspnea, hemolytic crisis, anorexia or icterus. Administration of approved acaricides to cats currently offers the best protection and control against C felis infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal is the property of World Health Organization and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This pilot study aimed to investigate the effects of regional and seasonal variations on the prevalence of Theileria orientalis and the hematological profile of non-grazed dairy cows in Korea. A total of 365 clinically healthy lactating Holstein Friesian cows from 26 dairy farms in 7 provinces that were categorized into northern, central, and southern regions were sampled during the warm period from July to August and the cold period from October to December. The detection of T. orientalis major piroplasm surface protein gene and the hematology non-grazed dairy cows were analyzed using peripheral blood samples. The T. orientalis prevalence was 20.0% (73/365). The prevalence in the southern region was 35.9%, which was significantly higher than that in the central (21.6%) and northern (12.9%) regions (P<0.05). The prevalence during warm period was higher (43.0%) than that during the cold season (13.5%). The infected cows showed significantly lower erythrocyte counts in the southern region (5.8±0.6 M/µl) and during the warm period (5.8±0.7 M/μl) compared with those in the central and northern regions and during the cold season, which affected the extended RBC parameters, including hematocrit and hemoglobin concentrations. Our findings revealed the prevalence of T. orientalis in Korea, highlighting its high occurrence during warm periods and in certain geographical regions. Climatic factors could contribute to the health and productivity of cattle, as evidenced by the prevalence of T. orientalis and its negative impact on animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lyme disease (LD) is a major public health problem in the United States. Given its incidence and geographic expansion, nurse practitioners (NPs) will likely encounter patients with this condition. NPs were invited to participate in an electronic survey via email, newsletter, and social media posts. The 31-question survey collected information on provider characteristics, clinical scenario decisions, resources used, and vaccine sentiment for LD. Survey participants (n = 606) were primarily cisgender female (75%) and aged 30–49 years (62%). Responding to six hypothetical clinical scenarios, only 31% of participants answered most questions correctly. If an LD vaccine becomes available, 39% said they would incorporate it into practice; 48% would seek further information before deciding. Additional education on LD prevention, diagnosis, and treatment is needed for NPs. Increasing provider awareness of current guidelines and developing tailored resources for NPs may improve patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Tick-borne diseases are a major concern for horses in Pennsylvania. • Higher knowledge scores are associated with previous equine Lyme disease diagnosis. • Veterinarians and the internet are main sources for tick-borne disease prevention. • Better tools and education focused on tick bite prevention could improve knowledge. There is limited data on current knowledge of Pennsylvania horse caretakers on tick-borne diseases (TBDs), tick identification, and tick management practices. This study aimed to determine tick knowledge, concern, and management among Pennsylvania equine caretakers using an online survey. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA tests were used to analyze data. The survey received 894 responses (539 completed) from Pennsylvania equine owners and caretakers. The largest proportion of respondents cared for 3-5 horses (31 %), followed by 2 horses (27 %). Veterinarian-confirmed diagnosis rates of two TBDs, Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, were 38 % and 22 %, respectively. Most respondents (39 %) were moderately confident in recognizing Lyme disease, while most (44 %) were not confident at all in recognizing anaplasmosis. Most respondents (69 %) were either extremely or very concerned about their horses contracting any TBDs. Tick bite and TBD prevention methods used by equine caretakers included performing tick checks, using on-animal repellents, and conducting pasture/landscape management. Ten knowledge-based questions were asked, and the mean correct score was 3.97 ± 2.18 out of 10 possible points. There were significant positive associations between higher knowledge scores and previous veterinarian-confirmed equine Lyme disease diagnosis, higher concern level of TBDs, and higher frequency of tick checks. With increased equine TBD prevalence and high levels of horse owner concern about TBD, Extension educators should focus on teaching about TBDs and managing ticks on horses and farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild animals in general, birds in particular, play a key role in transporting ticks and propagating tick-borne pathogens. Several studies have confirmed the infection of birds with Anaplasma phagocytophilum , with overall prevalence varying widely from country to country and/or study to study. This zoonotic bacterium, transmitted mainly by ticks of the genus Ixodes , is responsible for granulocytic anaplasmosis in humans (HGA) and domestic animals (cats, dogs, horses). The disease is also called tick-borne fever (TBF) in ruminants. Extremely rare in the USA, TBF is very common in Europe, where it causes economic losses in livestock. Conversely, HGA is well established in the USA whereas only a few less severe cases have been observed in Europe. Current typing techniques support the existence of multiple variants with differences in virulence/pathogenicity and tropism for certain tick and host species. However, epidemiological cycles remain difficult to characterize in Europe. Several studies describe a cycle apparently involving only birds in Europe, but no such study has been conducted in mainland France. Our objectives were to search for A. phagocytophilum in passerine birds in the Ile-de-France region and to explore their diversity using groEL and ankA gene typing and multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Various tissues (spleen, liver, and skin) were collected from cadavers of 680 passerines between March and December 2021. The presence of A. phagocytophilum was detected by qPCR Taqman targeting the msp2 gene. Three blackbirds (Turdus merula) were found positive, representing detection rates of 0.4 % in all birds tested and 3.3 % in blackbirds. The higher frequency of detection in blackbirds could be at least partially explained by their lifestyle, as they feed on the ground. Analysis of the results of groEL and ankA typing and MLST from positive blackbirds support the hypothesis that the avian A. phagocytophilum strains in Ile-de-France are distinct from those found in mammals, and that they form their own cluster in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tick-borne condition Lyme borreliosis, commonly known as Lyme Disease, is an emerging problem in the U.K. Thus media coverage highlighting clinical features and measures to prevent tick bites is welcome. How well does the news media provide this information? Here, reports from the British Public Service Broadcaster, the BBC, were examined. BBC coverage of Lyme Disease was classed depending on media type as 'television', 'radio' or 'web page'. Keywords related to symptoms and prevention techniques were recorded. Images of ticks or the characteristic EM rashes were also noted. More reports occurred in the spring and summer months than autumn and winter (Q2, 31.7%: Q3, 29.1%). Early diagnostic features such as a 'rash' (53.3%) and reference to tick bites (68.9%) were frequently mentioned. Other symptoms were well covered; including fever or 'flu-like' symptoms (43.6%), malaise (35.9%) and joint pain (43.6%). Less often mentioned were focal symptoms; including arthritis (8.7%) or facial palsy (6.7%). Prevention techniques were mentioned in 32% of all media reports, with tick removal (26.2%) and body checking (20.3%) being most often mentioned. Tick images were frequently provided (40.7%), but those of EM rashes less often (16.5%). Overall, coverage of early symptoms was high. However, symptoms indicative of later infection were less well covered. Increased use of EM images, and more appropriate tick images, could aid Lyme Disease identification amongst the general public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma gondii are intracellular protozoa that can cause neurological disease or death in fetuses and even in immunocompromised human adults. Ticks are recognized as vectors of many microorganisms including viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. Recent studies detected T. gondii in various tick species in many countries. In this study, we performed PCR detection of the T. gondii B1 gene from Haemaphysalis ticks collected from vegetation in 4 localities, Wonju, Gunsan, Miryang, and Yangsan, in Korea. We analyzed DNA from 314 ticks (268 Haemaphysalis longicornis and 46 Haemaphysalis flava) and the B1 gene of T. gondii was detected in 13 of these. The detection of T. gondii in ticks differed significantly by region (P=0.021). T. gondii was detected in the following percentages of collected ticks: 3.7% (7 of 189) in Gunsan, 10% (5 of 50) in Wonju, 16.7% (1 of 6) in Yangsan, and 0% (0 of 69) in Miryang. The detection of T. gondii in ticks was not associated with tick species or development stage. This is the first report of T. gondii detection in ticks in Korea. Our results provide important information necessary to understand toxoplasmosis transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lyme disease (LD) and other tick-borne diseases are emerging across Canada. Spatial and temporal LD risk is typically estimated using acarological surveillance and reported human cases, the former not considering human behavior leading to tick exposure and the latter occurring after infection. The primary objective was to explore, at the census subdivision level (CSD), the associations of self-reported tick exposure, alternative risk indicators (predicted tick density, eTick submissions, public health risk level), and ecological variables (Ixodes scapularis habitat suitability index and cumulative degree days > 0 °C) with incidence proportion of LD. A secondary objective was to explore which of these predictor variables were associated with self-reported tick exposure at the CSD level. Self-reported tick exposure was measured in a cross-sectional populational health survey conducted in 2018, among 10,790 respondents living in 116 CSDs of the Estrie region, Quebec, Canada. The number of reported LD cases per CSD in 2018 was obtained from the public health department. Generalized linear mixed-effets models accounting for spatial autocorrelation were built to fulfill the objectives. Self-reported tick exposure ranged from 0.0 % to 61.5 % (median 8.9 %) and reported LD incidence rates ranged from 0 to 324 cases per 100,000 person-years, per CSD. A positive association was found between self-reported tick exposure and LD incidence proportion (ß = 0.08, CI = 0.04,0.11, p < 0.0001). The best-fit model included public health risk level (AIC: 144.2), followed by predicted tick density, ecological variables, self-reported tick exposure and eTick submissions (AIC: 158.4, 158.4, 160.4 and 170.1 respectively). Predicted tick density was the only significant predictor of self-reported tick exposure (ß = 0.83, CI = 0.16,1.50, p = 0.02). This proof-of-concept study explores self-reported tick exposure as a potential indicator of LD risk using populational survey data. This approach may offer a low-cost and simple tool for evaluating LD risk and deserves further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tularemia is a rare zoonotic disease caused by the two predominant subspecies of Francisella tularensis, namely subspecies tularensis and subspecies holarctica. The latter is less virulent than the former, is endemic in Europe, and usually has a mild disease course, although respiratory involvement and bacteraemia can occur. Tularemia in Belgium is rare, but the incidence seems to be increasing. It therefore seems prudent to raise awareness among clinicians for this potentially severe disease. We report the first case of pneumonic tularemia with bacteraemia from Belgium, and want to recommend including Francisella tularensis in the differential diagnosis of pneumonia when an unfavorable evolution is seen with standard treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 20-year-old Paint gelding was evaluated for fever of unknown origin. History and clinical signs were consistent with potential tick-borne disease. Samples were collected and submitted for tick-borne disease panel, herpes virus, complete blood count, and serum biochemistry. Based on physical examination findings and vaccination history, the gelding was treated for suspected tick-borne disease with oxytetracycline (8 mg/kg intravenously BID) for 5 days, followed by doxycycline (10 mg/kg PO BID) for an additional 5 days. Although titers to Borrelia burgdorferi , Anaplasma phagocytophilum , and Neorickettsia risticii on Days 4 and 8 were negative, the Rickettsia rickettsii titer went from 1:1,600 on Day 4 to 1:800 on Day 8, 1:100 on Day 21, and was seronegative by Day 38. Although complete blood polymerase chain reaction for Rickettsia rickettsii was negative, the clinical and serologic features of this case are extremely consistent with clinical cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) described in both dogs and humans. Therefore, we submit this case report to document suspected clinical infection of an adult horse in the southeastern United States with Rickettsia rickettsii , the causative agent of RMSF. Other relevant differentials (i.e., Rickettsia parkeri , Theileria equi , and Babesia caballi) are also discussed. • The clinical significance of Rickettsia rickettsii infection in horses is currently unknown. • It may be advisable for practitioners in certain geographic locations to consider testing for Rickettsia rickettsii when suspicion of any tick-borne pathogen is present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato est l'agent responsable de la maladie de Lyme ou borréliose de Lyme. Il s'agit d'un groupe de spirochètes de découverte relativement récente. La borréliose de Lyme est la maladie vectorielle à tique la plus fréquente dans l'hémisphère Nord. C'est une maladie systémique dont les symptômes qui lui sont reliés incluent des manifestations cutanées (l'érythème migrant en est l'archétype) et/ou neurologiques (neuroborréliose), et/ou articulaires (arthrite de Lyme). L'expression clinique de la maladie peut avoir lieu de manière précoce ou des semaines, des mois voire des années après la piqûre de tique. Le diagnostic de cette pathologie repose sur la clinique étayée par des examens de biologie médicale (hormis pour l'érythème migrant dont le diagnostic est purement clinique). La sérologie Borrelia joue un rôle pivot dans le diagnostic biologique des formes disséminées de cette pathologie. Elle repose sur un algorithme séquentiel de deux tests (EIA puis immuno-empreinte). Cette dernière doit être interprétée en fonction de l'état clinique du patient. Elle ne doit pas être employée pour le diagnostic de l'érythème migrant. Sa sensibilité augmente avec l'évolution de la maladie, elle est voisine de 100 % pour les formes tardives. Le diagnostic direct de la borréliose de Lyme permet d'aider au diagnostic de certaines manifestations cliniques et est principalement basé sur des méthodes de biologie moléculaire. La culture est réalisée dans les centres spécialisés. Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato is the group of causative agents of Lyme borreliosis. This bacterium is a spirochete which discovery is relatively recent. Lyme borreliosis is the most prevalent tick-borne disease in the North hemisphere. This systemic disease whose related symptoms include cutaneous manifestations (mainly erythema migrans) and/or neurological (neuroborreliosis) and/or articular (Lyme arthritis). The clinical picture of Lyme borreliosis is well defined. The clinical expression of the disease can occur early after the tick bite, or weeks, months or even years after the bite. The diagnosis of this pathology is based on clinical evidence supported by biological tests. Borrelia serology plays a pivotal role in the biological diagnosis of this pathology. It is based on a two-tiered testing algorithm (EIA then immuno-blot). This serology must be interpreted according to the clinical symptoms of the patient. It should not be used for the diagnosis of erythema migrans. Its sensitivity increases with the evolution of the disease; it is close to 100% for late forms. The direct diagnosis of Lyme borreliosis support the clinical diagnosis of most of the clinical manifestations and is based on molecular biology methods. The culture is carried out in reference centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Le virus Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) est responsable de l'encéphalite à tique. Cette zoonose est transmise à l'homme essentiellement par piqûre de tiques du genre Ixodes. Elle est endémique en Europe centrale et de l'Est. Une augmentation du nombre de cas en Europe a été rapportée au cours de ces trente dernières années, avec notamment la découverte de nouveaux foyers d'infection. L'infection symptomatique, dans 30 % des cas, donne lieu à un tableau pseudo-grippal et peut évoluer vers des tableaux d'encéphalite ou de méningo-encéphalite, et occasionner des séquelles neurologiques à long terme. Le diagnostic d'encéphalite à tique repose, selon la définition du Centre européen de prévention et de contrôle des maladies (ECDC), sur des critères à la fois, biologiques et cliniques. Si en France, une dizaine de cas de TBE sont rapportés par an, en 2016, une recrudescence des cas a été observée avec 29 cas confirmés. Cette tendance semble se confirmer avec plus d'une vingtaine de cas diagnostiqués au cours de l'année 2018. L'Alsace reste la zone de plus forte prévalence de cette infection en France, mais un foyer secondaire en Haute-Savoie a été identifié au cours de ces dix dernières années. Depuis 2017, trois cas autochtones ont été rapportés en Auvergne. L'encéphalite à tique reste une pathologie peu connue en France, en dehors de sa principale zone d'endémie et est probablement insuffisamment diagnostiquée sur notre territoire. TBE (Tick-borne encephalitis) virus is responsible for tick-borne encephalitis. This zoonosis is mainly transmitted to humans by an Ixodes tick bite. This infection is endemic in Central and Eastern Europe. An increase of the number of cases in Europe has been reported over the last 30 years, including the discovery of new foci of infection. Infection is symptomatic in 30 % of cases consisting in a flu like disease and may evolve into encephalitis or meningoencephalitis, and cause long-term neurological sequelae. Diagnosis of tick-borne encephalitis is based, as defined by the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), on both biological and clinical criteria. If in France, around ten cases of TBE are reported each year, in 2016, a step increase was observed with 29 confirmed cases. This trend seems to be confirmed with more than twenty cases diagnosed during the year 2018. The Alsace region, remains the area with the highest prevalence of TBE in France, but a secondary focus was identified in Haute-Savoie (alpine region) during the last ten years. Since 2017, three autochtonous cases have been reported in Auvergne. Outside its main endemic zone, TBE is only poorly known in France and is probably underdiagnosed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Les tiques sont des parasites hématophages à tous les stades de leur évolution et dont la plus grande partie de l'existence se passe à l'état libre. Acariens de grande taille ils possèdent un rostre, appareil de fixation sur la peau, permettant la nutrition. Les tiques ont une importance considérable en pathologie humaine et vétérinaire. En effet, en dehors de l'action neurotrope voire paralysante de la salive élaborée par une femelle gravide, elles ont un rôle de réservoir et de vecteur de nombreuses maladies virales (arboviroses), bactériennes (borrélioses, rickettsioses, ehrlichioses ou anaplasmoses) et parasitaires (babésioses, filarioses). La plupart des germes sont à transmission transstadiale, voire transovarienne, ce qui permet leur pérennité à l'intérieur d'une population de tiques et le caractère parfois focal des maladies transmises. On retrouve deux familles principales : les Ixodidae ou tiques dures (700 espèces) et les Argasidae ou tiques molles (200 espèces). Elles ont une répartition mondiale, des zones les plus chaudes du globe aux régions les plus froides. Ce sont des arthropodes parasites temporaires, hématophages stricts ayant trois stases principales après les oeufs : larves, nymphes et adultes mâles et femelles. Les larves sont hexapodes, les nymphes et les adultes sont octopodes. L'homme est un hôte accidentel. En France métropolitaine, les principales espèces responsables de pathologies humaines sont Ixodes ricinus , (borréliose de Lyme, encéphalite à tique, anaplasmose), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (fièvre boutonneuse méditerranéenne), Dermacentor marginatus et D. reticulatus (Tick-born lymphadenopathy :Tibola) et Argas reflexus (lésions inflammatoires). All stages of ticks are hematophagous parasites and they live mostly independent of their hosts. These large size mites have a hypostome for attachment to host skin and blood feeding ticks are of considerable importance in humans and veterinary diseases. Indeed, their salivary secretions have neurotropic or even paralyzing properties. Moreover they can be reservoir host and have vector competences in many diseases: viral (arboviroses), bacterial (borreliosis, rickettsialisis disease, ehrlichiosis or anaplasmosis) and parasitic diseases (babesiosis, filariosis). For most pathogens transmission is horizontal (transstadial) and transovarial for maintaining in a tick population it explains the sometimes focal nature of transmitted diseases. Thy are two main families: Ixodidae or hard ticks (700 species) and Argasidae or soft ticks (200 species). Ticks have worldwide distribution both hot and cold areas. They are temporary parasitic arthropods, strictly hematophagous with three stages after eggs: larvae, nymphs and male or female adults. Larvae are hexapods whereas nymphs and adults are octopods. Human is an accidental host. In France, the main species involved in human pathologies are Ixodes ricinus (Lyme borreliosis, tick-borne encephalitis. anaplasmosis), Rhipicephalus sanguineu s (Mediteranean spotted fever), Dermacentor marginatus and D. reticulatus (Tibola, Tick-borne lymphadenopathy) and Argas reflexu s (inflammatory lesions). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Most people who contract Lyme borreliosis in the eastern United States (US) acquire infection from the bite of the nymphal life stage of the vector tick Ixodes scapularis , which is present in all eastern states. Yet <5% of Lyme borreliosis cases are reported from outside the north-central and northeastern US. Geographical differences in nymphal questing (i.e., host-seeking behavior) may be epidemiologically important in explaining this latitudinal gradient in Lyme borreliosis incidence. Using field enclosures and a 'common garden' experimental design at two field sites, we directly tested this hypothesis by observing above-litter questing of laboratory-raised nymphal I. scapularis whose parents were collected from 15 locations (= origins) across the species' range. Relative to southern nymphs from origins considered to be of low acarologic risk, northern nymphs from high-risk origins were eight times as likely to quest on or above the surface of the leaf litter. This regional variation in vector behavior (specifically, the propensity of southern nymphs to remain under leaf litter) was highly correlated with Lyme borreliosis incidence in nymphs' counties of origin. We conclude that nymphal host-seeking behavior is a key factor contributing to the low incidence of Lyme borreliosis in southern states. Expansion of northern I. scapularis populations could lead to increased incidence in southern states of Lyme borreliosis and other diseases vectored by this tick, if the 'northern' host-seeking behavior of immigrant nymphs is retained. Systematic surveillance for I. scapularis nymphs questing above the leaf litter in southern states will help predict future geographic change in I. scapularis -borne disease risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Babesia odocoilei, a tick-borne protozoan hemoparasite of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), is being increasingly recognized as a cause of disease in captive cervids in North America. Historically endemic in white-tailed deer, the natural wildlife reservoir in the southeastern US, B. odocoilei has been recently associated with hemolytic anemia in captive Eurasian tundra reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus), wapiti (Cervus canadensis), and woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) in the northcentral and northeastern US and several Canadian provinces. The emergence of B. odocoilei is likely related to the northward expansion of the range of the tick vector, Ixodes scapularis, and possibly to cervid translocations. Following a disease outbreak in reindeer and wapiti at the Toronto Zoo in Ontario, Canada, we utilized a prospective postmortem survey to investigate the prevalence of B. odocoilei in wild, farmed, and zoo cervids in Ontario (n=270) in 2016–18 by PCR and DNA sequencing of spleen samples. Zoo bovids have been suggested as potential hosts of B. odocoilei in zoos affected by cervid babesiosis, so we also collected postmortem samples from five species of bovids (n=7) at the Toronto Zoo that died or were euthanized during this time. We detected B. odocoilei in 1% (2/142) of farmed red deer (Cervus elaphus) as well as in 3% (1/29) of captive wapiti and 4% (3/68) of wild white-tailed deer. Tissues from all zoo bovids and caribou, zoo and wild moose (Alces alces), and farmed white-tailed deer, wapiti-red deer hybrids, and fallow deer (Dama dama), tested negative for B. odocoilei. No clinical cases of babesiosis were encountered during this study. These findings suggest that white-tailed deer are a potential natural wildlife reservoir for B. odocoilei in Ontario and that red deer and wapiti could serve as more-localized reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scope of literature concerning tick-borne disease in South Dakota (SD) is limited primarily to case reports by public health officials. Published records of ticks occurring in the state are scarce and are mostly limited to reports of ticks opportunistically collected from wildlife, with little focus on surveillance for ticks themselves or potential pathogens. There exists only one published record with a compilation of the ticks of South Dakota (1983). Here, the current literature on the ticks of South Dakota, the pathogens they may carry, and their relevance and history in South Dakota are reviewed. Three new tick species documented in the state since the last publication are included herein, bringing the total number of tick species in the state to 21. I review and update past reports to include new county records and identification of pathogens previously undetected in the state and include some information on ongoing research involving ticks and tick-borne disease in the state. This manuscript and the projects referenced within were conducted with the goal of drawing attention to the need for tick surveillance in South Dakota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Vector-borne agents comprise medically important infections affecting dogs throughout much of the world. Sensitive detection of antibodies directed at tick-borne disease-causing organisms in dogs is diagnostically important for veterinarians, pets and their owners, and epidemiologically important for public health surveillance. The SNAP 4Dx Plus Test (IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME) identifies antibodies to or infection with multiple tick-borne pathogens and canine heartworm antigen in a single assay. Recently, VetScan FLEX4 Rapid Test (Abaxis, Inc., Union City, CA) was launched as a new assay to detect tick-borne pathogen antibodies and heartworm antigen. In the present study, we evaluated the comparative performance of SNAP 4Dx Plus (SNAP) and FLEX4 Rapid Test (FLEX4) using samples selected based on geographic distributions for canine vector borne diseases, including Borrelia burgdorferi (n = 105), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (160), Anaplasma platys (115), Ehrlichia canis (154), Ehrlichia ewingii (163), Ehrlichia chaffeensis (151) and Dirofilaria immitis (105). Canine vector borne diseases infection status was established for each sample by a combination of reference methods that included necropsy (D. immitis, heartworm disease), Western immunoblotting (B. burgdorferi), immunofluorescence assays (A. phagocytophilum and E. canis) and species-specific ELISAs (A. platys, E. canis, E. ewingii and E. chaffeensis). For comparisons among the 2 assays, samples were evaluated per the manufacturers' instructions for each test kit. By testing each same sample set compared to the defined reference results, sensitivities differed substantially between SNAP and FLEX4, at 95.5 vs. 40.9%, respectively for B. burgdorferi , 97.1% vs. 61.4% for E. canis , 98.2% vs. 59.3% for E. ewingii , 64.3% vs. 35.7% for E. chaffeensis , 84.5% vs. 12.7% for A. phagocytophilum , 83.3% vs. 33.3% for A. platys , and 94.1% vs. 88.2% for D. immitis. Specificities for both rapid assay tests ranged from 98% to 100%. Based upon the comparative results derived from this study, the SNAP test was more sensitive than the FLEX4 test for detection of antibodies to all tick-borne pathogens and heartworm disease (Dirofilaria immitis) antigen in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Feline genes upregulated in response to acute infection with C. felis were involved with response to inflammatory responses, and type I interferon signaling pathway among others. • Feline genes downregulated during acute C. felis infection were involved with biological processes in the cell cycle, cellular response to stress, and DNA metabolic process. • Feline genes upregulated during chronic C. felis infection were related to cell-cell adhesion, regulation of postsynaptic membrane potential among others. • Feline genes downregulated during chronic C. felis infection were involved with metabolic processes, homeostasis, and apoptotic signaling pathways and others. Cytauxzoonosis is a severe tick transmitted protozoan disease of domestic cats, caused by Cytauxzoon felis. The disease is characterized by acute onset of high fever, depression, lethargy, inappentence, anorexia, icterus, dehydration, hemolytic anemia, and alteration of immune response. The aim of our study was to further detail the immune response of domestic cats to C. felis infection by comparing the differential expression of feline immune transcriptional elements during acute and chronic cytauxzoonosis. True single molecule sequencing (tSMS) was used to analyze the whole genome of acutely and chronically infected C. felis cats, focusing on the analysis of genes involved on the immune response. Two C. felis donor cats were infested with Amblyomma americanum nymphs, which after repletion were collected and kept in humidity chambers until they molted. The resulting A. americanum were randomly selected to infest three C. felis naïve principal cats. Infection of these cats was confirmed by nested PCR of the 18S rRNA C. felis gene and clinical signs. RNA was extracted from whole blood at different time points and used for tSMS analyses, the results revealed overexpression in transcripts involved in type I interferon signaling, cellular and cytokine responses during the acute stage of infection, while cell cycle, and metabolic processes were downregulated. Genes involved in cell adhesion increased their expression in the chronic infected cats, whereas inflammatory and apoptotic related genes were downregulated. This study provided information on the host immune response to C. felis in domestic cats, demonstrating that inflammatory, apoptotic, and cell adhesion are some of the pathways altered during acute and chronic infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 4-Poster Tick Control Deer Feeder (4-poster) device applies acaricide to white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and can reduce populations of the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis), which transmits the agents of Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and Powassan virus disease in the Northeastern United States. While 4-poster devices have the potential to provide community-wide management of blacklegged ticks in Lyme disease endemic areas, no recent study has assessed their acceptability among residents. We conducted a survey of residents from 16 counties with high annual average Lyme disease incidence (≥ 10 cases per 100,000 persons between 2013 and 2017) in Connecticut and New York to understand perceptions and experiences related to tickborne diseases, support or concerns for placement of 4-poster devices in their community, and opinions on which entities should be responsible for tick control on private properties. Overall, 37% of 1652 respondents (5.5% response rate) would support placement of a 4-poster device on their own property, 71% would support placement on other private land in their community, and 90% would support placement on public land. Respondents who were male, rented their property, resided on larger properties, or were very or extremely concerned about encountering ticks on their property were each more likely to support placement of 4-poster devices on their own property. The primary reason for not supporting placement of a 4-poster device on one's own property was the need for weekly service visits from pest control professionals, whereas the top reason for not supporting placement on other land (private or public) was safety concerns. Most respondents (61%) felt property owners should be responsible for tick control on private properties. Communities considering 4-poster devices as part of a tick management strategy should consider targeting owners of larger properties and placing devices on public lands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) causes tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), affecting human health in Europe and Asia. Reports on canine clinical cases of TBE are rare, although dogs are used as sentinels for assessing human health risks. The first canine clinical TBE case in Greece is reported in this case report. The dog had a history of tick infestation and displayed neurological symptoms, particularly tetraparesis, neck hyperalgesia, and a sudden behavior change. Serum samples were obtained and examined in a commercial ELISA to detect anti-TBEV specific IgG and IgM antibodies. The dog tested seropositive for both IgG and IgM, and based on its history and compatible clinical signs, the diagnosis of TBE infection was reached. The prognosis was initially poor, and treatment included the administration of fluids, corticosteroids, and antibiotics, followed by physical therapy. After a 10-day hospitalization, the dog had a much better prognosis. This case highlights that TBEV does emerge in new locations, increasing human and animal infection risk. Veterinarians should include TBE in their differential diagnosis of canine patients with a history of tick infestations, progressive neurological symptoms, and abnormal behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ticks and tick-borne diseases represent major threats to the public health of the Mongolian population, of which an estimated 26% live a traditional nomadic pastoralist lifestyle that puts them at increased risk for exposure. Ticks were collected by dragging and removal from livestock in Khentii, Selenge, Tuv, and Umnugovi aimags (provinces) during March-May 2020. Using next-generation sequencing (NGS) with confirmatory PCR and DNA sequencing, we sought to characterize the microbial species present in Dermacentor nuttalli (n = 98), Hyalomma asiaticum (n = 38), and Ixodes persulcatus (n = 72) tick pools. Rickettsia spp. were detected in 90.4% of tick pools, with Khentii, Selenge, and Tuv tick pools all having 100% pool positivity. Coxiella spp. were detected at an overall pool positivity rate of 60%, while Francisella spp. were detected in 20% of pools and Borrelia spp. detected in 13% of pools. Additional confirmatory testing for Rickettsia -positive pools demonstrated Rickettsia raoultii (n = 105), Candidatus Rickettsia tarasevichiae (n = 65) and R. slovaca/R. sibirica (n = 2), as well as the first report of Candidatus Rickettsia jingxinensis (n = 1) in Mongolia. For Coxiella spp. reads, most samples were identified as a Coxiella endosymbiont (n = 117), although Coxiella burnetii was detected in eight pools collected in Umnugovi. Borrelia species that were identified include Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (n = 3), B. garinii (n = 2), B. miyamotoi (n = 16), and B. afzelii (n = 3). All Francisella spp. reads were identified as Francisella endosymbiont species. Our findings emphasize the utility of NGS to provide baseline data across multiple tick-borne pathogen groups, which in turn can be used to inform health policy, determine regions for expanded surveillance, and guide risk mitigation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum , is an obligatory ectoparasite of many vertebrates and the primary vector of Ehrlichia chaffeensis , the causative agent of human monocytic ehrlichiosis. This study aimed to investigate the comparative transcriptomes of A. americanum underlying the processes of pathogen acquisition and of immunity towards the pathogen. Differential expression of the whole body transcripts in six different treatments were compared: females and males that were E. chaffeensis non-exposed, E. chaffeensis -exposed/uninfected, and E. chaffeensis -exposed/infected. The Trinity assembly pipeline produced 140,574 transcripts from trimmed and filtered total raw sequence reads (approximately 117M reads). The gold transcript set of the transcriptome data was established to minimize noise by retaining only transcripts homologous to official peptide sets of Ixodes scapularis and A. americanum ESTs and transcripts covered with high enough frequency from the raw data. Comparison of the gene ontology term enrichment analyses for the six groups tested here revealed an up-regulation of genes for defense responses against the pathogen and for the supply of intracellular Ca++ for pathogen proliferation in the pathogen-exposed ticks. Analyses of differential expression, focused on functional subcategories including immune, sialome, neuropeptides, and G protein-coupled receptor, revealed that E. chaffeensis -exposed ticks exhibited an upregulation of transcripts involved in the immune deficiency (IMD) pathway, antimicrobial peptides, Kunitz, an insulin-like peptide, and bursicon receptor over unexposed ones, while transcripts for metalloprotease were down-regulated in general. This study found that ticks exhibit enhanced expression of genes responsible for defense against E. chaffeensis. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • We compared transcriptomes of ticks between pathogen free and pathogen exposed. • Gold transcript set (GTS) was established to minimize the noise in the analyses. • Pathogen exposed ticks up-regulated genes for tick immunity against the pathogen. • Metalloprotease was down-regulated from pathogen exposed ticks. • The significant DE transcripts were validated by using qRT-PCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical research on donkeys needs to be in continual development because they require specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Unfortunately, donkeys are still considered to be small horses. Some update about donkey diseases is here provided on the basis of current knowledge, personal publications, and experiences. Several chronic diseases are not currently enough clear about the consequences they can have in donkeys. Epidemiology and clinical presentation of piroplasmosis and other tick-borne diseases (TBDs) show some differences between horses and donkeys. Nonspecific clinical presentation of Babesia caballi and Theileria equi infection seems to be common in donkeys, and clinical pathology alterations persist after natural infection. Nevertheless, donkeys seem to be less sensitive to Borrelia burgdorferi infection. Clinical monitoring for TBDs should be recommended because donkeys represent a risk both for transmission to other animals (as unapparent carriers) and for their own health and performances. A high prevalence of equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) in donkeys with no clinical signs of this disease has also been found. This suggests that subclinical forms of EGUS may be more common in donkeys than was previously thought, but it is routinely overlooked. The results indicate that this syndrome could be present in apparently healthy donkeys. Several peculiarities of donkey are present in respect to horses. Disease presentation can be very different, and also epidemiology of infectious and noninfectious disease needs to be specifically studied for donkeys, to identify control plans to decrease incidence and consequences, especially for the discussed subclinical diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) are common in livestock of sub-Saharan Africa. However, information regarding TBPs in sheep and goats in Sudan is limited. In this study, 178 blood samples of sheep and goats in Blue Nile and West Kordofan states were investigated for TBPs using PCR. Overall, 110 (61.8%) samples were found to be infected with at least one of the following pathogens: Anaplasma ovis , Theileria ovis , and Ehrlichia ruminantium . Babesia ovis and T. lestoquardi were not identified. A. ovis was the most prevalent pathogen ( n  = 107, 60.1%), followed by T. ovis ( n  = 23, 12.9%) and E. ruminantium ( n  = 1, 0.6%). The prevalence rates of A. ovis and T. ovis were significantly higher in sheep than in goats. Phylogenetic analysis of T. ovis 18S rRNA and A. ovis msp4, groEL , and 16S rRNA, revealed that the pathogens identified in this study are clustered together, indicating similar molecular characteristics. Additionally, phylogenetic analysis of E. ruminantium pCS20 revealed that E. ruminantium in this study belong to the West Africa group, and different to E. ruminantium previously identified in ticks from Sudan. We concluded that TBPs are highly prevalent in the study area and continuous monitoring of TBPs in sheep and goats in Sudan is highly required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iran, as an endemic country of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), has been suffering from severe health issues and substantial economic burdens imposed by the disease. We analyzed monthly and yearly spatial and temporal distributions of CCHF to better understand the epidemiology of the disease in Iran. A cross-sectional survey was performed on 1027 recorded cases between 2000 and 2014. Global Moran’s I analysis was applied to statistically evaluate the spatial pattern of the disease. Additionally, spatial and space-time scan statistics were used to study the presence of possible spatial and space-time hotspots. Global Moran’s I analysis proved that the incidence of the disease is strongly clustered in Iran (p < 0.01). Purely spatial scan statistics identified that there were three clusters in the eastern, southern and western parts of the country. Through space-time analysis, we found that the highest incidence of CCHF occurred in the eastern parts of the country between 2006 and 2012. Monthly clusters, which include cities with lower (average) temperatures, had been occurring in relatively short periods. The distribution of CCHF incidence in this country is spatially and temporally clustered. The majority of the clusters emerged during the critical years of 2009 and 2013. Summer is the predominant period for the formation of CCHF clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lyme borreliosis (or Lyme Disease) is an emerging threat to human health in the Northern Hemisphere caused by tick-borne bacteria from the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (Bbsl) complex. Seabirds are important reservoir hosts of some members of the Bbsl complex in the Northern Hemisphere, and some evidence suggests this may be true of penguins in the Southern Hemisphere. While the Bbsl complex has not been detected in Australia, a novel Borrelia species (‘ Candidatus Borrelia tachyglossi’) was recently sequenced from native ticks ( Ixodes holocyclus and Bothriocroton concolor ) parasitising echidnas ( Tachyglossus aculeatus ), suggesting unidentified borreliae may be circulating amongst native wildlife and their ticks. In the present study, we investigated whether ticks parasitising little penguins ( Eudyptula novaehollandiae ) harbour native or introduced Borrelia bacteria. We chose this penguin species because it is heavily exploited by ticks during the breeding season, lives in close proximity to other potential reservoir hosts (including native wildlife and migratory seabirds), and is known to be infected with other tick-borne pathogens ( Babesia ). We screened over 230 penguin ticks ( Ixodes spp.) from colonies in south-eastern Australia, and found no evidence of Borrelia DNA. The apparent absence or rarity of the bacterium in south-eastern Australia has important implications for identifying potential tick-borne pathogens in an understudied region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relapsing fever (RF) in North America is caused primarily by the spirochete Borrelia hermsii and is associated with the bite of its tick vector Ornithodoros hermsi. Although this spirochete was known long before the discovery of the Lyme disease (LD) spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi, basic methods to facilitate the study of B. hermsii have lagged behind. One important technique to expedite the study of the molecular biology and pathogenesis of B. hermsii would be a reliable method to grow and clone these bacteria in solid medium, which we now describe. We have defined the solidifying agent, plating temperature, oxygen concentration, and pH for the efficient plating of two species of RF spirochetes, B. hermsii and Borrelia turicatae . Importantly, this technique allowed us to successfully isolate virulent, clonal cell lines of spirochetes, and to enumerate and isolate viable B . hermsii from infected mouse blood and tick tissues. Our results also demonstrate the value of testing a range of several environmental variables to increase the efficiency of bacterial isolation, which may be helpful for researchers working on other prokaryotes that are intractable for in vitro growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. During feeding, the tick sucks blood from the host along with the pathogens that are in the blood, simultaneously exchanging its own pathogens with the host. Humans can also be a host. It is important to understand the most typical circumstances in which people might become infected with Borrelia burgdorferi. This knowledge will help to prepare health education programmes aimed at the prevention of Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. Objective. The aim of the study was to determine the percentage of ticks infected with Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, depending on the circumstances of getting bitten. Materials and method. The research material consisted of ticks acquired from people who had been bitten, and questionnaires completed by these people. 510 ticks were acquired from 257 females and 253 males. Following delivery of a tick for testing, the stage of its development was determined and a molecular assay of Borrelia burgdorferi DNA performed. Results. A positive result of the nested-PCR test was obtained in 78 ticks, which represents 15.30% of all ticks. The infected ticks were collected from male (41 ticks - 52.56%) and female subjects (37 ticks - 47.44%). The biggest number of infected ticks were collected in autumn (54 ticks - 69.23%) and from people who had been into forests (44 ticks - 56.41%). Among the people from whom the infected ticks were acquired, the dominating group included persons over 16 years of age (53 persons - 67.95%) and children aged 0-5 years (16 persons - 20.51%). One in four infected ticks were acquired from the southwestern (20 ticks - 25.64%) and eastern regions of Poland (21 ticks - 26.92%). Conclusion. Infestation of ticks infected with Lyme disease spirochete in this study proved to be variable and depend on the season, the area of tick attack and the region in Poland. The results of the study clearly show that ticks infected with Borrelia burgdorferi inhabit all regions of Poland. The results are consistent with National Institute of Hygiene data which indicates that Lyme disease cases are recorded in all regions of Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatozoon species are vector-borne pathogens that infect domestic and wild animals. Marsupials of the species Didelphis albiventris are adapted to urban and peri-urban areas and act as reservoir hosts for several parasites. The present study evaluated the occurrence of infection by Hepatozoon species in synantropic D. albiventris from Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil. Blood samples and ectoparasites from 19 D. albiventris were collected from urban and peri-urban areas. Hepatozoon spp. detection was performed by microscopy and molecular analysis. One opossum was positive for Hepatozoon spp. in microscopy analysis and PCR, while another animal was positive only in PCR. The obtained sequences were 100% identical to Hepatozoon canis . Six species of ticks and two species of fleas were detected on D. albiventris. This is the first report of H. canis in synantropic D. albiventris . In Brazil, H. canis transmission among dog populations is not well established, which highlights the importance of investigating the role that opossums might play in the epidemiology of this protozoan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most common tick-borne human disease in Norway is Lyme borreliosis. Ticks in Norway also harbour less known disease-causing agents such as Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Borrelia miyamotoi and Rickettsia helvetica . However, human infections caused by these pathogens have never been described in Norway. The main aims of the study were to evaluate the contribution of several tick-borne bacterial agents, other than Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, to zoonotic diseases in Norway and to determine their clinical pictures. Blood samples from 70 symptomatic tick-bitten adults from the Agder counties in southern Norway were screened for seven tick-borne pathogens by using a commercial multiplex PCR-based method and by singleplex real-time PCR protocols. Most patients (65/70) presented with a rash clinically diagnosed as erythema migrans (EM) . The most frequently detected pathogen DNA was from Ca. N. mikurensis and was found in the blood of 10% (7/70) of the patients. The Ca. N. mikurensis-infected patients presented with an EM-like rash as the only symptom. B. burgdorferi s.l. DNA was present in the blood of 4% (3/70) of the study participants. None had detectable Anaplasma phagocytophilum , B. miyamotoi , Rickettsia typhus group or spotted fever group , Francisella tularensis, Coxiella burnetii or Bartonella spp. DNA in the blood. The commercially available multiplex PCR bacteria flow chip system failed to identify half of the infected patients detected by corresponding real-time PCR protocols. The recovery of Ca. N. mikurensis DNA was higher in the pellet/plasma fraction of blood than from whole blood. To conclude, Ca. N. mikurensis appeared to be the etiological agent in patients with EM in a surprisingly large fraction of tick-bitten persons in the southern part of Norway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaplasma and Ehrlichia spp. are tick-borne pathogens that can cause severe disease in domestic animals, and several species are responsible for emerging zoonoses in the northern hemisphere. Until recently, the only members of these genera reported in Australia ( A . marginale , A . centrale , and A . platys ) were introduced from other continents, through the importation of domestic animals and their associated ticks. However, unique Anaplasma and Ehrlichia 16S rRNA gene sequences were recently detected for the first time in native Australian ticks, particularly in Amblyomma triguttatum subsp. ticks from southwest Western Australia (WA). We used molecular techniques to survey Am. triguttatum subsp. ticks from four allopatric populations in southern and western Australia for Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species, and described here the phylogeny of these novel organisms. An A . bovis variant (genotype Y11) was detected in ticks from two study sites; Yanchep National Park (12/280, 4.3%) and Barrow Island (1/69, 1.4%). Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA and groEL gene sequences concluded that A . bovis genotype Y11 is a unique genetic variant, distinct from other A . bovis isolates worldwide. Additionally, a novel Ehrlichia species was detected in Am . triguttatum subsp. from three of the four study sites; Yanchep National Park (18/280, 6.4%), Bungendore Park (8/46, 17.4%), and Innes National Park (9/214, 4.2%), but not from Barrow Island. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S, groEL , gltA , and map1 gene sequences revealed that this Ehrlichia sp. is most closely related to, but clearly distinct from, E. ruminantium and Ehrlichia sp. Panola Mountain. We propose to designate this new species ‘ Candidatus Ehrlichia occidentalis’. Anaplasma bovis genotype Y11 and ‘Candidatus E. occidentalis’ are the first Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species to be recorded in native Australian ticks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Far northern California forests are highly biodiverse in wildlife reservoirs and arthropod vectors that may propagate rickettsial pathogens in nature. The proximity of small rural communities to these forests puts people and domestic animals at risk of vector-borne infection due to spillover from wildlife. The current study was conducted to document exposure to rickettsial pathogens in people and domestic animals in a rural community, and identify which rickettsiae are present in sylvatic and peri-domestic environments near this community. Blood samples from people, domestic animals (dogs, cats, and horses) and wild carnivores were tested for Rickettsia spp. antibodies and DNA (people and domestic animals only) by serology and real time (RT)-PCR, respectively. Ectoparasites were collected from dogs, wild carnivores and from vegetation by flagging, and tested for Rickettsia spp. DNA by RT-PCR. DNA sequencing of the rickettsial 17 kDa protein gene or the ompA gene was used for species identification. Despite a seroprevalence of 3% in people, 42% in dogs, 79% in cats, 33% in gray foxes, and 83% in bobcats, RT-PCR on blood was consistently negative, likely because the sensitivity of this test is low, as Rickettsia spp. do not often circulate in high numbers in the blood. Rickettsia spp. DNA was found in four flea species collected from bobcats and Ctenocephalides felis collected from domestic dogs. All amplicons sequenced from fleas were R. felis . Ixodes pacificus collected by flagging were commonly infected with a Rickettsia sp. endosymbiont. Rickettsia rhipicephali DNA was found in Dermacentor variabilis from dogs, black bears, a gray fox, and a D. occidentalis collected by flagging. Dermacentor variabilis from dogs and black bears also contained R. montanensis DNA. Multiple Rickettsia spp. (including species with zoonotic and pathogenic potential) were found among human biting arthropod vectors of both wild and domestic carnivores and on flags. Knowledge of the diversity of Rickettsia spp. that are present within arthropod vectors to which people and domestic animals are exposed is an essential first step is making an accurate diagnosis and in better understanding the epidemiology of these potential pathogens. Within-host and vector interaction among these species may play a role in spillover into human and domestic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Borrelia miyamotoi ( Bm ) is a recently emerging bacterial agent transmitted by several species of ixodid ticks. Diagnosis of Bm infection can be challenging, as the organism is not easily cultivable. We have developed and validated a multiplex real-time PCR to simultaneously identify Bm infection and the agents causing human granulocytic anaplasmosis and human monocytic ehrlichiosis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Ehrlichia chaffeensis , respectively. The assay is 100% specific; highly sensitive, detecting 11 gene copies of Bm DNA in both whole blood and cerebral spinal fluid; and provides rapid results in less than two hours. A retrospective study of 796 clinical specimens collected between the years 2012 and 2014 and a prospective study of 366 clinical specimens were performed utilizing this novel assay to evaluate the frequency of Bm infection in New York State (NYS). Eight clinical specimens (1%) were found to be positive for Bm , 216 were positive for A. phagocytophilum, and 10 were positive for E. chaffeensis. Additionally, we tested 411 I. scapularis ticks collected in NYS during 2013 and 2014 in a separate multiplex real-time PCR to determine the prevalence of Bm, A. phagocytophilum , Borrelia burgdorferi s.s., and Borrelia species. Our results indicated rates of 1.5%, 27%, 19.7%, and 8.8% respectively. The ability to monitor both the frequency and geographic distribution of Bm cases and the prevalence and geographic distribution of Bm in ticks will help create a better understanding of this emerging tick-borne pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the high incidence of tick bites and tick-borne diseases in the United States, it is important for primary care providers to recognize common ticks and the pathogens they may transmit. If a patient has removed and saved an attached tick, identifying the tick helps guide clinical management and determine whether antibiotic prophylaxis for Lyme disease is appropriate. To investigate providers’ ability to recognize common ticks and the pathogens they may transmit, we asked 76 primary care providers from Lyme disease endemic areas to identify the common name or genus of preserved ticks found in their area. At baseline, 10.5%, 46.1%, and 57.9% of participants correctly identified an adult female blacklegged tick (engorged), dog tick, and lone star tick, respectively. Less than half of participants identified the three pathogens most frequently transmitted by blacklegged ticks. Use of a reference manual with tick photographs and drawings substantially improved identification of ticks and associated pathogens and therefore should be encouraged in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kyasanur forest disease (KFD) is a zoonotic viral haemorrhagic fever and has been endemic to Karnataka State, India. Outbreaks of KFD were reported in new areas of Wayanad and Malappuram districts of Kerala, India during 2014–2015. Investigation of the outbreaks was carried out in these districts during May 2015. The line-list data of KFD cases available with District Medical Office, Wayanad were analysed. Case investigation was carried out to determine the risk factors associated with the outbreak and possible site of contraction infections. Ticks from the forest floor were collected in areas associated with monkey deaths by flagging method to estimate species abundance. Of 102 confirmed cases of KFD reported in Wayanad, 91% were adults aged >15years. About 43% of the cases were from the areas of Poothady Primary Health Centre (PHC) followed by Chethalayam PHC (22%). Most of the affected individuals belong to Kattunayakan tribe, dependent on forest for their livelihood. Those tribes are engaged in trench digging and fire line works in summer months and hence are at a higher risk. In Malappuram, the Cholanaickan tribe, are under high risk of exposure to infected ticks as they live deep in the forest and trap monkeys for game meat. High abundance of Haemaphysalis spinigera and H. turturis , the established vectors of KFD virus was recorded in all affected areas. Incidence of KFD cases/monkey deaths and high abundance of Haemaphysalis vectors in the forest ranges of Wayanad and Malappuram districts indicate that the area has become receptive for KFD outbreaks. Preventive measures (vaccination of high risk groups) coupled with intensive health education should be carried out prior to transmission season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tick-borne diseases are an emerging public health threat in the United States. In Florida, there has been public attention directed towards the possibility of locally acquired Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto, the causative agent of Lyme disease, in association with the lone star tick. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of ticks and the pathogens they carry and potentially transmit, such as B. burgdorferi , in a highly utilized teaching and research forest in North Central Florida. Ticks were collected by dragging and flagging methods over a four month period in early 2014, identified, and tested by PCR for multiple pathogens including Anaplasma , Borrelia , Rickettsia , and Ehrlichia species. During the study period the following ticks were collected: 2506 (96.5%) Amblyomma americanum L., 64 (2.5%) Ixodes scapularis Say, 19 (0.7%) Dermacentor variabilis Say, and 5 (0.2%) Ixodes affinis Neuman. Neither Borrelia spp. (0/846) nor Anaplasma spp. (0/69; Ixodes spp. only) were detected by PCR in any of the ticks tested. However, Rickettsia DNA was present in 53.7% (86/160), 62.5% (40/64), 60.0% (3/5) and 31.6% (6/19) of A. americanum , I. scapularis, I. affinis and D. variabilis, respectively. Furthermore, E. chaffeensis and E. ewingii DNA were detected in 1.3% and 4.4% of adult A. americanum specimens tested, respectively. Although receiving an A. americanum bite is likely in wooded areas in North Central Florida due to the abundance of this tick, the risk of contracting a tick-borne pathogen in this specific area during the spring season appears to be low. The potential for pathogen prevalence to be highly variable exists, even within a single geographical site and longitudinal studies are needed to assess how tick-borne pathogen prevalence is changing over time in North Central Florida. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is limited data on the occurrence of ticks on horses in Pennsylvania (PA). Additionally, current knowledge of PA horse caretakers on tick-borne diseases (TBDs), tick identification, and tick management practices has not been assessed. The objectives of this study were to determine tick knowledge, concern, and management among PA equine caretakers. An online survey was distributed via e-mail lists, social media, and online advertising. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA tests were used to analyze data. The percentages shown represent the number of respondents who answered that question. The survey received 894 responses (539 completed) from PA equine owners and caretakers. The largest proportion of respondents cared for 3–5 horses (31%), followed by 2 horses (27%). Veterinarian-confirmed diagnosis rates of 2 TBDs, Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, were 38 and 22%, respectively. Most respondents (39%) were moderately confident in recognizing Lyme disease, while most (44%) were not confident at all in recognizing anaplasmosis. Most respondents (69%) were either extremely or very concerned about their horses contracting any TBDs. Horse caretakers (88%) were comfortable performing tick checks and most performed weekly full-body tick checks (40.6%) and daily partial tick checks (47%). A majority (67%) found 1–2 ticks on their horse each timethey checked, with the jaw, throatlatch, and chest being the most common areas ticks were found on horses. The primary method of tick control was on-animal repellants (60%), followed by pasture/landscape management (23%). Ten knowledge-based questions were asked, and the mean correct score was 3.97 ± 2.18. Respondents with horses that had a veterinarian-confirmed Lyme disease diagnosis had a higher knowledge score (4.93 ± 1.69) than those with probable or no Lyme disease diagnosed horses (4.21 ± 1.60 and 4.34 ± 1.65, respectively; P < 0.001). Respondents that were extremely concerned about TBDs had higher knowledge scores (4.8 ± 1.67) than those that were moderately, slightly, or not concerned (4.26 ± 1.65, 3.95 ± 1.59, 3.50 ± 1.68, respectively; P < 0.001). Respondents that performed full-body tick checks daily or weekly scored higher (4.75 ± 1.61, 4.79 ± 1.60, respectively) than those who performed them when they remembered or never conducted tick checks (4.19 ± 1.81, 3.94 ± 1.87; P < 0.001). As TBD concern level and rate of Lyme diagnosis increased, so did knowledge score of respondents. With most PA horse owners finding ticks every time they checked their horses, Extension educators should focus on teaching about TBDs and managing ticks on their horses and farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Borrelia miyamotoi is an emerging, tick-borne human pathogen. In North America, it is primarily associated with Ixodes scapularis and Ixodes pacificus , two species known to bite humans. Here we describe the development and evaluation of a pair of real-time TaqMan PCR assays designed to detect B. miyamotoi in North American ticks. We sought to achieve sensitivity to B. miyamotoi strains associated with ticks throughout North America, the full genetic diversity of which is unknown, by targeting sequences that are largely conserved between B. miyamotoi strains from the eastern United States and genetically distinct B. miyamotoi strains from Japan. The two assays target different loci on the B. miyamotoi chromosome and can be run side by side under identical cycling conditions. One of the assays also includes a tick DNA target that can be used to verify the integrity of tick-derived samples. Using both recombinant plasmid controls and genomic DNA from North American and Japanese strains, we determined that both assays reliably detect as few as 5 copies of the B. miyamotoi genome. We verified that neither detects B. burgdorferi , B. lonestari or B. turicatae . This sensitive and specific pair of assays successfully detected B. miyamotoi in naturally-infected, colony-reared nymphs and in field-collected I. scapularis and I. pacificus from the Northeast and the Pacific Northwest respectively. These assays will be useful in screening field-collected Ixodes spp. from varied regions of North America to assess the risk of human exposure to this emerging pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outbreaks of spotted fevers have been reported in Costa Rica since the 1950s, although vectors responsible for transmission to humans have not been directly identified. In this study, species of Rickettsia were detected in ectoparasites from Costa Rica, mostly from five study sites where cases of spotted fevers have been reported. Ticks and fleas were collected using drag cloths or directly from domestic and wild animals and pooled according to species, host, and location. Pools were analyzed initially by PCR to detect a fragment of Rickettsia spp. specific gltA gene, and those positive were confirmed by detection of htrA and/or ompA gene fragments. Partial sequences of the gltA gene were obtained, as well as at least one ompA and/or ompB partial sequence of each species. Rickettsia spp. were confirmed in 119 of 497 (23.9%) pools of ticks and fleas analyzed. Rickettsia rickettsii was identified in one nymph of Amblyomma mixtum and one nymph of Amblyomma varium . Other rickettsiae present were ‘ Candidatus Rickettsia amblyommii’ in A. mixtum , Amblyomma ovale , Dermacentor nitens , and Rhipicephalus sanguineus s. l.; Rickettsia bellii in Amblyomma sabanerae ; Rickettsia felis in Ctenocephalides felis ; and Rickettsia sp. similar to ‘ Candidatus R. asemboensis’ in C. felis, Pulex simulans, A. ovale , and Rhipicephalus microplus . Results show the presence of rickettsiae in vectors that may be responsible for transmission to humans in Costa Rica, and evidence suggests exposure to rickettsial organisms in the human environment may be common. This is the first study to report R. rickettsii in A. varium and in A. mixtum in Costa Rica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an emerging zoonotic tick-borne pathogen affecting a wide range of mammals. Rodents are suspected to be natural reservoirs for this bacterium, but their role in the epidemiologic cycles affecting domestic animals and wild ungulates has not been demonstrated. This study aimed to improve our knowledge on A. phagocytophilum prevalence in Apodemus sylvaticus , A. flavicollis and Myodes glareolus using data collected in 2010 in one area in eastern France and in 2012–2013 in two others areas in western France. Rodents were captured in each site and infection was tested using qualitative real-time PCR assays on either blood or spleen samples. Prevalence showed high variability among sites. The highest prevalence was observed in the most eastern site (with an average infection rate of 22.8% across all species), whereas no rodent was found to be PCR positive in the south-west site and only 6.6% were positive in the north-west of France. Finally, a significant increase in prevalence was observed in autumn samples compared to spring samples in the north-west, but no change was found in the other two sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervids host multiple species of ixodid ticks, other ectoparasites, and a variety of rickettsiae. However, diagnostic test cross-reactivity has precluded understanding the specific role of deer in rickettsial ecology. In our survey of 128 Columbian black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus (Richardson)) and their arthropod parasites from two northern Californian herds, combined with reports from the literature, we identified four distinct Anaplasma spp. and one Ehrlichia species. Two keds, Lipoptena depressa (Say) and Neolipoptena ferrisi Bequaert, and two ixodid ticks, Ixodes pacificus Cooley and Kohls and Dermacentor occidentalis Marx, were removed from deer. One D. occidentalis was PCR-positive for E. chaffeensis; because it was also PCR-positive for Anaplasma sp., this is an Anaplasma/Ehrlichia co-infection prevalence of 4.3%. 29% of L. depressa, 23% of D. occidentalis, and 14% of deer were PCR-positive for Anaplasma spp. DNA sequencing confirmed A. bovis and A. ovis infections in D. occidentalis, A. odocoilei in deer and keds, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum strain WI-1 in keds and deer. This is the first report of Anaplasma spp. in a North America deer ked, and begs the question whether L. depressa may be a competent vector of Anaplasma spp. or merely acquire such bacteria while feeding on rickettsemic deer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial pathogens of the families Anaplasmataceae and Rickettsiaceae are often spread to humans or other animals from bites from infected arthropod hosts. Recently, an increasing number of studies have implicated migratory birds in the circulation of these pathogens through the spread of arthropod vectors. However, few studies have examined the potential for resident bird populations to serve as reservoirs for these zoonoses. In this study, we used nested PCRs of the GroESL and 17 kDa genes to screen for Anaplasmataceae and Rickettsiaceae , respectively, in a resident population of the northern crested caracara ( Caracara cheriway ) from Florida ( n = 55). Additionally, a small number ( n = 6) of captive individuals from Texas were included. We identified one individual (1.64%) positive for Rickettsia felis and one (1.64%) positive for Ehrlichia chaffeensis; both these individuals were from Florida. Presence of these pathogens demonstrates that these birds are potential hosts; however, the low prevalence of infections suggests that these populations likely do not function as an ecological reservoir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lyme disease is the most commonly reported vector-borne illness in the United States. Since the institution of Nationally Notifiable surveillance efforts for Lyme disease in the United States in 1991, there has been a consistent increase in the number of reported cases. Thus, the need for targeted prevention strategies is underscored. The purpose of this study was to investigate knowledge about tick-borne diseases as well as beliefs and practices related to a variety of personal tick-borne disease prevention methods among individuals in southwestern Connecticut, a Lyme disease-endemic area. Between June and September 2014, an anonymous questionnaire was administered to 275 participants through a point-of-contact convenience sample obtained at community events in southwestern Connecticut. The questionnaire assessed individuals’ general knowledge about tick-borne diseases, performance of four selected tick-borne disease prevention methods, and perceived effectiveness and burdensomeness of those four behaviors. Some 80% of participants were female; median age was 55 years (IQR 45–64 years); 30% reported having been treated for a tick-borne illness and 50% reported a family member having been treated for a tick-borne illness. Overall, participants’ knowledge of tick-borne diseases was poor; the average knowledge score was only 57% (SD 22.6%). The reported frequency of performing preventive behaviors was variable. The most commonly reported behavior was performing a tick check (68%); use of tick repellent was the least commonly reported behavior (38%). Those who were more knowledgeable about Lyme disease were more likely to perform tick checks but knowledge score was not significantly associated with any of the other three behaviors studied. Respondents largely believed preventive behaviors to be effective at reducing the risk of tick-borne diseases. Belief that a prevention behavior is effective was highly correlated with performing that behavior but perceived burdensomeness does not appear to influence behavior performance. The reasons for differential uptake of preventive behaviors remains unknown; further study of barriers to performance of personal preventive behaviors is needed to better target public health interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an Ixodes species tick-transmitted bacterium that is capable of infecting a variety of host species, although there is a diversity of bacterial strains with differing host tropism. Recent analysis of A. phagocytophilum strains suggested that “ drhm ”, a gene locus designated “distantly related to human marker” ( drhm ), which was predicted to be an integral membrane protein with possible transporter functions was not present in available canine and human isolates. By assessing 117 strains from 14 host species from across the US, we extended this analysis. Phylogenetic clades were associated with geography, but not host species. Additionally, a virulent clade that lacks drhm and infects dogs, horses, and humans in northeastern US was identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ehrlichia muris -like agent (EMLA) is an emerging, tick-transmitted human pathogen that occurs in the upper Midwestern United States. Here, we describe the development and validation of a p 13-based quantitative real-time PCR TaqMan assay to detect EMLA in blood or tissues of ticks, humans, and rodents. The primer and probe specificities of the assay were ascertained using a large panel of various Ehrlichia species and other members of Rickettsiales . In addition to control DNA, both non-infected and EMLA-infected human blood, Mus musculus blood, and M. musculus tissue extracts were evaluated, as were non-infected and EMLA-infected Ixodes scapularis and uninfected Dermacentor variabilis DNA lysates. The specificity of the probe was determined via real-time PCR. An EMLA p 13 control plasmid was constructed, and serial dilutions were used to determine the analytical sensitivity, which was found to be 1 copy per 4 μl of template DNA. The sensitivity and specificity of this assay provides a powerful tool for ecological studies involving arthropod vectors and their mammalian hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tularaemia is a rare zoonotic disease caused by Francisella tularensis in humans. In Europe infections of humans and animals are mainly caused by F. tularensis subspecies holarctica . We report the first three documented cases of tularaemia in humans in Western Austria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ehrlichiosis is a potentially fatal zoonotic tick-borne disease, caused by a pleomorphic Gram-negative bacterium. It occurs worldwide and affects humans, domestic and wild animals. Dogs infected with Ehrlichia canis develop canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), a significant infectious disease of canines. TaqMan® based real-time PCR assays to detect Ehrlichia spp. affecting dogs were developed and a real-time PCR assay specific for E. canis validated. The efficiency of the assay was 93% and the 95% limit of detection was 33 E. canis plasmid copies/µl of blood (95% confidence interval: 23 - 58). The assay was specific for E. canis when tested against other haemoparasites. Consistent repeatability was observed, with an inter-run standard deviation (SD) range between 0.33 and 1.29 and an intra-run SD range between 0.04 and 1.14. Field samples were tested in parallel by both the E. canis real-time PCR assay and a reverse line blot hybridization assay. The results were in agreement for the two assays, with an exception of two out of 121 samples. Bayesian latent class analysis was used to calculate a diagnostic sensitivity of the E. canis real-time PCR assay of 90% and a specificity of 92%. This assay is a sensitive and reliable molecular detection method for E. canis and will be a useful tool for early diagnosis and timely treatment for this haemoparasite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ixodes ricinus ticks are considered as the vector of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex in urban areas, including city parks and green recreational areas. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of B. burgdorferi s. l. in urban areas in the city of Prague, Czech Republic. In selected public green areas in Prague, a total of 2819 I. ricinus ticks were collected in spring, from April to June, in 2014-2020. Quantitative real time PCR revealed 28.1% of ticks (31% of males, 33.7% of females and 25.8% of nymphs) to be positive for B. burgdorferi s. l. The prevalence varied significantly (p˂0.01) between collection sites, with the highest numbers of infected ticks found in the central city areas. The places serving people for recreational and sport activities in urban areas are characterized by a lower diversity of reservoir hosts, provide opportunity for exposure to Borrelia infected ticks, and pose a higher infection risk. We have detected seven Borrelia species in ticks: B. garinii, B. afzelii, B. bavariensis, B. burgdorferi sensu stricto, B. valaisiana, B. spielmanii, and B. finlandensis. Most positive ticks were infected by B. garinii (35%) and B. afzelii (36.9%). Our results show that the Borrelia transmission cycle occurs within urban biotops and highlight the need for surveillance of tick-borne pathogens in public green areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]