Back to Search
Start Over
Molecular detection of rickettsial agents in ticks and fleas collected from a European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) in Marseilles, France
- Source :
-
Comparative Immunology, Microbiology & Infectious Diseases . Jan2012, Vol. 35 Issue 1, p77-79. 3p. - Publication Year :
- 2012
-
Abstract
- Abstract: The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is a synanthropic nocturnal insectivore commonly found in the countryside and in the parks and gardens. Because hedgehogs are already involved in the transmission of a number of zoonoses, including salmonellosis and ringworm, we decided to study their possible role in the epidemiology of the spotted fever group of Rickettsia. We collected ticks and fleas from a hedgehog that was captured in the city of Marseilles in France. Using a genus-specific quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis followed by a species-specific qPCR analysis for positive samples, we observed that 91.7% (11/12) of the Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks were positive for Rickettsia massiliae and 99.2% (128/129) of the Archaeopsylla erinacei fleas were positive for Rickettsia felis. Hedgehogs carry infected ectoparasites and then likely ensure the dissemination of spotted fever group Rickettsiae, and their epidemiological role requires further investigation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 01479571
- Volume :
- 35
- Issue :
- 1
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- Comparative Immunology, Microbiology & Infectious Diseases
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 70261262
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cimid.2011.11.005