Southeast Asia (SEA) faces persistent gaps in regional understanding and control of ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) despite recent advances (2023-2025). The second international symposium on ticks and TBDs in SEA (Singapore, August 2025), following the inaugural 2023 meeting in Cambodia, served as a catalyst for regional exchange that informed this perspective. SEA's ecological and host diversity supports complex tick-host-pathogen networks, yet evidence remains fragmented due to uneven sampling that has largely focused on livestock and peri-urban environments. Key constraints include limited taxonomic resolution driven by outdated or incomplete identification keys, under-sampling of soft ticks (Argasidae), and the absence of harmonized, open-access regional reference resources (including DNA barcodes and MALDI-TOF MS spectral databases). While MALDI-TOF MS, proteomics, AI-assisted identification, and next-generation sequencing/metagenomics are increasingly applied, their broader regional uptake is limited by the absence of harmonized, open-access reference resources (including DNA barcodes and MALDI-TOF MS spectral databases). Broad ecological surveys and integrated animal and human surveillance remain limited, and vector competence studies are constrained by the scarcity of SEA-derived tick colonies and cell lines. Regional data and recent findings (2024-2026) confirm circulation of multiple TBPs (including Anaplasma, Babesia, Borrelia, Coxiella, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia, and Theileria) and highlight emerging viral findings, including southward reports of Bandavirus dabieense. Human infestations and non-communicable tick bite outcomes (e.g., tick paralysis and alpha-gal syndrome) are recognized but remain under-reported due to low clinical awareness and limited diagnostics. Importantly, the diagnostic chain is further disrupted by missed/insufficient specimen collection at the point of care, and by constrained capacity to identify (especially immature) ticks to species level-limitations compounded by the absence of harmonized, open-access regional reference resources. The symposium identified six priorities: (1) full completion and regional validation of tick identification keys for adults (in progress) and immatures (to be initiated), plus an open-access DNA barcode library anchored by curated, voucher-based collections from all SEA countries; (2) harmonization of molecular and proteomic diagnostic platforms, including expansion of regional MALDI-TOF MS and NGS protocols and reference databases; (3) development of tick colonies and cell lines from locally prevalent species to support vector competence, vaccine, and acaricide testing; (4) expansion of One Health surveillance with enhanced ecological sampling at wildlife-livestock-human interfaces; (5) establishment of open-access, region-wide data platforms for integrated tick, TBP, and ecological metadata sharing; and (6) sustained investment in human resources, training, and policy advocacy to raise research and public health visibility of ticks and TBDs.
The 2023 iteration of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) estimated prevalence, incidence, and health burden for 375 diseases and injuries, including 12 mental disorders. We assess past, current, and emerging trends in the prevalence and burden of mental disorders across sexes and age groups, for 21 regions, 204 countries and territories, and by Socio-demographic Index (SDI) quintile, from 1990 to 2023. Mental disorders included in GBD 2023 were anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, dysthymia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, conduct disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, idiopathic developmental intellectual disability, and a residual category of other mental disorders. A literature review identified epidemiological data for each disorder. These were analysed via a Bayesian meta-regression to estimate prevalence by disorder, sex, age, location, and year. Disorder-specific prevalence was multiplied by disability weights representing the severity of health loss associated with each disorder to estimate years lived with disability (YLDs). Deaths due to anorexia nervosa were assessed with a Cause of Death Ensemble modelling strategy to estimate deaths by sex, age, location, and year, and then multiplied by the standard life expectancy at age of death to estimate years of life lost (YLLs). YLDs equalled disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) for all mental disorders except anorexia nervosa (the only mental disorder considered as an underlying cause of death in GBD), for which DALYs represented the sum of YLDs and YLLs. We presented prevalence, deaths, YLDs, YLLs, and DALYs as counts, age-specific rates per 100 000 population, and age-standardised rates per 100 000 population. We estimated 1·17 billion (95% uncertainty interval 1·06-1·31) prevalent cases of mental disorders globally in 2023, equivalent to an age-standardised prevalence rate of 14 210·7 cases (12 849·5-15 940·1) per 100 000 population. These estimates represented a 95·5% (75·0-121·2) increase in prevalent cases and 24·2% (11·4-41·4) increase in age-standardised prevalence rate between 1990 and 2023. All mental disorders showed increases in prevalent cases between 1990 and 2023, while notable increases were seen in age-standardised prevalence rates for anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, dysthymia, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, schizophrenia, and conduct disorder. There were an estimated 171 million (127-228) DALYs due to mental disorders globally across sex and age in 2023, equivalent to an age-standardised DALY rate of 2070·5 DALYs (1519·1-2750·5) per 100 000 population. Mental disorders contributed to 6·1% (4·8-7·6) of all-cause DALYs in 2023, making them the fifth leading cause of global DALYs (up from 12th in 1990). DALYs were almost entirely composed of YLDs. Mental disorders were the leading cause of YLDs in 2023 (up from second in 1990), explaining 17·3% (14·8-20·6) of all-cause global YLDs. Leading causes of mental disorder DALYs were anxiety disorders (ranked 11th among the 304 diseases and injuries at Level 4 of the GBD cause hierarchy), major depressive disorder (15th), and schizophrenia (41st). Globally in 2023, mental disorder age-standardised DALY rates were higher among females (2239·6 [1643·7-3014·1] per 100 000) than among males (1900·2 [1399·8-2510·8] per 100 000), and peaked in the 15-19 years age group (2617·3 [1850·6-3696·8] per 100 000). All locations showed increased mental disorder DALY rates in 2023 compared with 1990, ranging across countries and territories from 1302·4 (952·7-1683·7) per 100 000 in Viet Nam to 3555·8 (2661·9-4715·0) per 100 000 in the Netherlands. Across SDI quintiles, DALY rates ranged from 1853·0 (1352·1-2469·3) per 100 000 for middle SDI to 2184·1 (1606·1-2890·3) per 100 000 for high SDI. A significant health burden was imposed by mental disorders in all countries and territories in 2023, irrespective of the health resources available. In some instances, this burden has increased over time and is unevenly distributed across populations. Stronger surveillance systems, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries, are required. Additionally, we need more coordinated and inclusive policies to reduce the burden through early treatment and prevention, tailored to sex and age differences across locations. Responding to the mental health needs of our global population, especially those most vulnerable, is an obligation, not a choice. Gates Foundation, Queensland Health, and University of Queensland.
Anaplasma spp. and piroplasmids are tick-borne pathogens with worldwide distribution, affecting domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. Although several tick-borne species have relevance in animal health and can cause economic losses in livestock farms, little is known about the epidemiological situation in small ruminants in Portugal. We aimed to assess the infection prevalence, molecular characterization, co-infection patterns and risk factors of Anaplasma spp. and piroplasmids in sheep and goat farms from the Alentejo region (south-central Portugal). A total of 290 blood samples collected in 2019 were analyzed using conventional PCR assays targeting partial fragments of the 16S rRNA and RpoB genes for Anaplasma spp., and 18S rRNA gene for piroplasmids. The results confirmed a wide distribution and a high prevalence of Anaplasma spp. (34.5%, 100/290) and piroplasmids (25.2%, 73/290). The following species were identified: Anaplasma ovis (n = 31), "Candidatus Anaplasma corsicanum" (n = 1), Theileria ovis (n = 21), and Theileria capreoli (n = 1). Co-infections occurred in 11.0% (32/290) of animals, and the most common association was A. ovis/T. ovis (n = 20), followed by "Candidatus A. corsicanum"/T. ovis (n = 1) and A. ovis/T. capreoli (n = 1). The remaining 10 co-infected individuals harbored A. ovis and an uncharacterized piroplasmid. This study represents the first molecular detection of "Candidatus A. corsicanum" in Portugal. Risk factors positively associated with Anaplasma infection were age and breed, while piroplasmid prevalence was significantly higher in sheep and crossbred animals. The presence of mixed infections may influence the pathogenicity of existing pathogens and complicate both diagnosis and treatment, potentially leading to considerable economic impacts on the livestock sector. These findings highlight the need for an effective monitoring system to enhance disease surveillance.
Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) is an emerging respiratory pathogen associated with significant morbidity, particularly among young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Although clinically relevant, it remains underrecognized relative to influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Recent regional outbreaks, including the January 2025 surge in northern China, highlight hMPV's capacity to cause significant above-seasonal transmission events, particularly in settings with immunity debt following prolonged non-pharmaceutical interventions. This review synthesizes current knowledge on hMPV epidemiology, genetic diversity, transmission dynamics, pathogenesis, host immune interactions, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic and vaccine development efforts. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect with no publication date restriction, using MeSH and free-text terms including "hMPV," "epidemiology," "immune response," "diagnosis," "treatment," and "pandemic preparedness." Relevant reference lists were hand-searched to identify additional studies. Eligible articles included molecular, clinical, observational, and epidemiological studies; case reports and commentaries were excluded unless they provided unique outbreak insights. Findings emphasize that hMPV represents a growing public health concern due to limited awareness, diagnostic overlap with other viral pathogens, and the absence of targeted therapeutics or licensed vaccines. Strengthened surveillance, improved diagnostic capacity, and accelerated research into immunopathogenesis and vaccine platforms are urgently needed. Integrating hMPV into regional outbreak preparedness frameworks rather than pandemic-level frameworks applicable to influenza or SARS-CoV-2 while fostering collaborative research and proportionate public health communication, is essential to mitigate its future impact.
Bovine neosporosis, caused by Neospora caninum, is a major cause of reproductive disorders and economic loss in dairy cattle worldwide. This study evaluated the association between N. caninum serostatus and reproductive performance in Girolando cows in a closed herd in Valença, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A total of 144 cows were analyzed between September 2023 and April 2024. Blood samples were collected and tested for N. caninum antibodies using ELISA and confirmed by an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Reproductive indices, including the number of services per conception, service period, calving interval, reproductive efficiency, conception rates at first and second services, pregnancy rate within two services, pregnancy rate at 150 days in lactation, and abortion rate, were evaluated over a four-year period in multiparous cows. ELISA screening of a subset of 49 animals revealed a seroprevalence of 44.9%, whereas IFAT confirmed that 29.9% of the total herds were seropositive. Seropositive cows required more services per conception (2.7 ± 0.2 vs. 2.1 ± 0.08; P = 0.05) and had a longer service period (142.3 ± 11.5 vs. 107.9 ± 4.8 days; P = 0.01) compared to seronegative cows. Trends were observed for longer calving intervals (413.6 ± 10.1 vs. 387.7 ± 5.5 days; P = 0.07) and reduced reproductive efficiency (91.2% vs. 96.1%; P = 0.07) in seropositive animals. Conception rates at the second service and pregnancy rates within the two services were higher in seronegative cows (60.3% vs. 42.4%, P = 0.04; 76.4% vs. 61.2%, P = 0.02, respectively). No significant differences were observed in first-service conception, pregnancy rate at 150 d of lactation, or abortion rate. Abortion occurred primarily around mid-gestation (mean 148 days). Our findings indicate that seropositivity for N. caninum is associated with poorer reproductive performance in Girolando cows by increasing service per conception and prolonging the service period, ultimately reducing herd efficiency. Although abortion rates were not significantly different, management practices and multifactorial causes likely influenced the outcomes. This study provides herd-level evidence on the association between N. caninum infection and reproductive performance in Girolando cows and underscores the importance of monitoring and controlling neosporosis to support reproductive management in dairy herds. Future research should prioritize vaccine development, effective therapies, and management strategies to mitigate the economic and reproductive effects of neosporosis.
Information on childhood cancer burden is crucial for effective cancer policy planning. Unfortunately, observed paediatric cancer data are not available in every country, and previous global burden estimates have not discretely reported several common cancers of childhood. We aimed to inform efforts to address childhood cancer burden globally by analysing results from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2023, which now include nine additional cancer causes compared with previous GBD analyses. GBD 2023 data sources for cancer estimation included population-based cancer registries, vital registration systems, and verbal autopsies. For childhood cancers (defined as those occurring at ages 0-19 years), mortality was estimated using cancer-specific ensemble models and incidence was estimated using mortality estimates and modelled mortality-to-incidence ratios (MIRs). Years of life lost (YLLs) were estimated by multiplying age-specific cancer deaths by the standard life expectancy at the age of death. Prevalence was estimated using survival estimates modelled from MIRs and multiplied by sequelae-specific disability weights to estimate years lived with disability (YLDs). Disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) were estimated as the sum of YLLs and YLDs. Estimates are presented globally and by geographical and resource groupings, and all estimates are presented with 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs). Globally, in 2023, there were an estimated 377 000 incident childhood cancer cases (95% UI 288 000-489 000), 144 000 deaths (131 000-162 000), and 11·7 million (10·7-13·2) DALYs due to childhood cancer. Deaths due to childhood cancer decreased by 27·0% (15·5-36·1) globally, from 197 000 (173 000-218 000) in 1990, but increased in the WHO African region by 55·6% (25·5-92·4), from 31 500 (24 900-38 500) to 49 000 (42 600-58 200) between 1990 and 2023. In 2023, age-standardised YLLs due to childhood cancer were inversely correlated with country-level Socio-demographic Index. Childhood cancer was the eighth-leading cause of childhood deaths and the ninth-leading cause of DALYs among all cancers in 2023. The percentage of DALYs due to uncategorised childhood cancers was reduced from 26·5% (26·5-26·5) in GBD 2017 to 10·5% (8·1-13·1) with the addition of the nine new cancer causes. Target cancers for the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC) comprised 47·3% (42·2-52·0) of global childhood cancer deaths in 2023. Global childhood cancer burden remains a substantial contributor to global childhood disease and cancer burden and is disproportionately weighted towards resource-limited settings. The estimation of additional cancer types relevant in childhood provides a step towards alignment with WHO GICC targets. Efforts to decrease global childhood cancer burden should focus on addressing the inequities in burden worldwide and support comprehensive improvements along the childhood cancer diagnosis and care continuum. St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Gates Foundation, and St Baldrick's Foundation.
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is a tick-borne disease caused by the blood parasites Theileria equi, Theileria haneyi, and Babesia caballi transmitted primarily by hard ticks (Ixodidae). The clinical courses of EP range from asymptomatic to severe, and chronic infections for several years support the transmission among hosts. Over a period of two years, blood and fecal samples were taken from horses (n = 18) on a single farm in eastern Austria, starting with the first confirmed case of T. equi infection. Hard ticks (n = 1525 of Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor reticulatus and Haemaphysalis concinna) were collected by flagging on the horses' pastures. For detection of infections with piroplasms, PCR on the 18S rRNA gene with subsequent sequence analysis and antibody detection with a commercially available cELISA were performed. Initially, two horses showed clinical signs and tested positive for T. equi. Of the remaining 16 horses, 12 were positive for T. equi by PCR and serology at the first sampling timepoint without clinical symptoms. In the second year, 12/14 positive horses remained positive, two were unavailable. Additionally, two horses negative in the first year were then positive for T. equi by PCR and serology, leaving only one horse negative which had had no contact to the others and was kept on a separate pasture. None of the fecal samples was positive for piroplasms. Six out of 363 ticks flagged on three different pastures in the first year (four H. concinna, one I. ricinus, one D. reticulatus) and eight out of 196 D. reticulatus adults removed from an infected positive horse in the first year were T. equi-positive by PCR. The resulting sequences all belonged to T. equi genotype E. Here we report the occurrence and spread of T. equi on a horse farm in Austria, a country not considered endemic for EP but with sporadic cases documented in recent years. Due to the occurrence of T. equi on the farm and likelihood of lifelong infections, this pathogen will presumably remain in this herd and in Austria and might spread further due to the presence of putative vector ticks. Owners and veterinarians should be made aware of the risk of infection and the occurrence of clinical symptoms. Horses should be tested prior to import from endemic areas. Further studies are needed to identify risk areas, clarify the vector competence of the found tick species and develop strategies to mitigate the risk of endemisation.
A short-nosed louse, Haematopinus tuberculatus, infestation among different breeds of buffaloes in rural farming systems poses a potential threat to animals' health and milk production. A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the infestation rate of H. tuberculatus across different breeds of buffaloes and to identify potential associated risk factors by examining 1200 animals during surveys of 150 rural farms in Sialkot, Pakistan. Among 1200 sampled animals, a high overall infestation rate of 78.8% was observed. The Kundhi breed exhibited the highest infestation rate (∼85%), followed by the mixed breed (∼80%) and other indigenous breeds, including Nili-Ravi and Azakheli, ranging from 77 to 80%. Kernel density analysis revealed that lice burden followed a right-skewed distribution across all breeds, except Nili-Ravi, which showed broader and heavier lice distribution per 10 cm2/buffalo. Seasonal variation significantly affected infestation dynamics; winter had the highest prevalence (86.6%) and summer the lowest (67.4%). Risk factor analysis revealed that poor bedding, unhygienic practices, and contact with other lice-infested herds or domestic pets significantly increased the risk of H. tuberculatus infestation. Buffaloes with poor hygiene and bedding conditions showed >85% infestation rates, whereas animals with excellent bedding and hygienic practices showed 31.6% infestation prevalence. In buffaloes aged 0-2 years and 8-12 years, as well as in animals with poor body condition scores (BCS1: 89.35%), compared to healthier animals (BCS5: 58.21%). A strong positive correlation (r = 0.97) was observed between lice counts and egg production across all breeds, confirming lice density as a reliable proxy for reproductive outcome. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified contact with other herds (OR = 2.697, p < 0.001), poor bedding (OR = 3.120, p < 0.001), poor hygiene (OR = 1.856, p < 0.001), and contact with pets (OR = 2.064, p < 0.001) as the most significant predictors of H. tuberculatus infestation risk. In contrast, breed was not a significant predictor in the adjusted regression model (p = 0.449), indicating that observed crude breed-specific differences were primarily attributable to variations in management practices and environmental factors rather than inherent breed susceptibility. Conversely, better body and bedding conditions, as well as hygiene practices, and the summer season provided protective effects. In conclusion, the overall results underscore the importance of improving animal husbandry, housing hygiene, and minimizing inter-herd contact to reduce ectoparasite burdens. The non-significant breed effect in multivariate analysis suggests that targeted interventions focusing on management practices would be more effective than breed-control strategies.
Canine babesiosis is a disease caused by protozoa of the genus Babesia, an important hemoparasite in veterinary clinical practice. In Brazil, Babesia vogeli predominates; however, Babesia gibsoni, common in Asia and the United States, has emerged globally with distinct diagnostic, therapeutic, prophylactic, and prognostic features. In the present study, we report the first multilocus molecular characterization of B. gibsoni in Brazil with supported clinical, laboratory and morphological data. A Dachshund dog from the Federal District presented with nonspecific clinical signs, including fever, dehydration, and persistent anemia. Babesia infection was confirmed by PCR and further characterized using four molecular markers (cytb, cox3, hsp70, and 18S rRNA). Phylogenetic and sequence identity analyses confirmed the species as B. gibsoni. Haplotype networks were constructed, and diversity indices were calculated, revealing significant genetic variability within the species. The Brazilian isolate clustered within the dominant haplotype for the 18S rRNA gene. This network suggests a possible recent population expansion of the pathogen. The cytb and cox3 genes exhibited high genetic variability, demonstrating their suitability as markers for intraspecific diversity analyses. Our findings suggest that B. gibsoni infections may be underdiagnosed in Brazil. Furthermore, considering the genetic diversity and widespread distribution of this pathogen, epidemiological, phylogenetic, and phylogeographic studies are essential to enhance understanding of its occurrence and impact within the country. Although this study is limited by the evaluation of a single case, it emphasizes the importance of molecular surveillance in canine babesiosis and highlights B. gibsoni, an emerging pathogen, as a critical differential diagnosis in the clinical evaluation of dogs in Brazil.
Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are important protozoan parasites affecting a wide range of domestic and wild animals. Data on their prevalence and risk factors in local deer in Iraq are lacking. A sero-epidemiological survey was conducted on 168 free-ranging deer across multiple locations in Erbil Governorate, northern Iraq, between 2024 and 2025. Blood samples were collected, and serum was analyzed for antibodies against T. gondii and N. caninum using a competitive ELISA. Demographic, management, and environmental data were recorded for each animal. Associations between seropositivity and potential risk factors were assessed using Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests, with binomial logistic regression used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Sex was not associated with infection risk, whereas adult deer (>4 years) showed higher seroprevalence of T. gondii (30.5% vs. 16.2% in fawns; OR = 2.26) and N. caninum (25.4% vs. 11.8%; OR = 2.56). A history of abortion was a strong predictor of infection, with affected does exhibiting higher odds for both parasites (T. gondii: OR = 3.53; N. caninum: OR = 3.46). Poor body condition was associated with significantly increased odds of infection (T. gondii: OR = 3.21; N. caninum: OR = 7.49). Environmental factors, including the presence of even a few free-roaming cats and canids, were linked to higher infection rates, while prior antiparasitic treatment was protective against T. gondii infection (OR = 0.27). This study provides the first evidence of T. gondii and N. caninum exposure in local deer in northern Iraq and identifies key host and environmental risk factors. Findings highlight the roles of age, reproductive history, body condition, and exposure to definitive hosts in shaping infection risk, emphasizing the need for integrated wildlife management and monitoring strategies to reduce protozoal transmission.
Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection has serious deleterious effects on the health of goats, and costs Australian producers $2.5 million annually (Lane et al., 2015). Anthelmintic drugs are heavily relied upon for control of these parasites; however, anthelmintic resistance (AR) has become a major constraint for producers. This study assessed resistance to a range of registered and off-label anthelmintic treatments using faecal egg count reduction tests (FECRT) and compared four methods of FECRT analysis. Twelve meat goat properties in southern Queensland (n = 6) and New South Wales (n = 6) were recruited for resistance testing. Goats shedding a minimum of 150 eggs per gram (epg) were randomly allocated to treatment groups of 15 animals. Faecal egg count (FEC) samples were taken on day 0 and day 14 post-treatment. Four methods were employed to analyse FECRT results: a simple mean percentage reduction of FEC, a Bayesian Hierarchial Model ('eggCounts' package in R Studio), a computational method recommended by the World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology (WAAVP) (Kaplan et al. 2023), and a Beta Negative Binomial (BNB) Distribution analysis (FECRT.com). This study identified the first field cases of resistance, classifications to several anthelmintics: Moxidectin (MOX) on 70% of properties, Monepantel (MPL) + Abamectin (ABA) on 50%, Derquantel (DER) + ABA on 33%, ABA+Oxfendazole (OXF) + Levamisole (LEV) on 50% and ABA+Closantel (CLOS) + LEV+Albendazole (ABZ) on 50%. All properties (100%) had resistance to Fenbendazole (FBZ), ABA, Eprinomectin (EPM), Doramectin (DRM) and LEV in combined species tests. Haemonchus contortus was found to be the most commonly resistant GIN species, followed by Trichostrongylus spp. A comparison of the four methods used to evaluate FECRT results revealed that out of a total 104 individual FECRTs performed, 87 tests returned a consistent categorical outcome. The WAAVP method and BNB distribution yielded the most resistant classifications. These findings illustrate widespread AR to commonly used registered and off-label anthelmintic treatments in meat goats across both Queensland and New South Wales. This has significant implications for the longevity of these treatments and poses a serious risk to successful control of GIN in goats using chemicals. The continued reliance on anthelmintics is not sustainable, the incorporation of non-chemical control management practices should be encouraged for all goat producers.
Sarcoptes scabiei infestation (sarcoptic mange) is a common and debilitating ectoparasitic disease in rabbits, causing severe dermatological lesions and productivity losses. This study investigated the physiological, oxidative, histopathological, and immunological alterations associated with natural S. scabiei infestation in domestic rabbits. A total of 420 male weaner rabbits from farms in Giza and Cairo (Egypt) were examined from May to November 2022. Growth performance parameters, activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase [SOD] and glutathione peroxidase [GPx]), and the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers were assessed. Rabbits naturally infested exhibited characteristic crusted hyperkeratotic lesions affecting the head, face, and limbs, along with a significant decline in body weight gain, feed consumption, and feed conversion efficiency when compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Markers of oxidative stress (SOD, GPx) as well as pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) were significantly elevated in the infested tissues. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed epidermal hyperkeratosis, mast cell infiltration, and increased CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell expression. These findings clarify the immunopathological mechanisms underlying S. scabiei infestation in rabbits and highlight its detrimental effects on physiological and performance parameters, providing a basis for improved management and control strategies.
Rhipicephalus microplus (R. microplus) is the most significant tick in cattle worldwide, including Mexico; however, its presence in sheep is infrequent and typically associated with accidental exposures in production systems where they coexist with infested cattle. The objective of this study is to describe R. microplus infestation in sheep from Yucatán, Mexico, and to determine their toxicological response to coumaphos, cypermethrin, and ivermectin (IVM). The animal population of the production unit under study was examined for the presence of ticks, revealing infestations in sheep and cattle. Cattle exhibited between 12 and 21 standard ticks/animal, whereas six young sheep showed high infestation levels (35.1 standard ticks/animal). Engorged female ticks were collected for morphological identification and progeny collection. The larval packet technique was used to assess susceptibility to coumaphos and cypermethrin, and the larval immersion technique was used to assess susceptibility to IVM. Lethal concentrations at 50% (LC50) and 95% confidence intervals (CI95%) were determined using Probit analysis, as well as resistance ratios (RRs). All collected ticks were identified as R. microplus. The LC50s were 0.003 (0.002-0.004), 0.007 (0.005-0.009), and 0.0004 (0.0003-0.0005) for coumaphos, cypermethrin, and IVM, respectively. The evaluated population was susceptible to the acaricides, with RRs of 0.14, 0.53, and 0.8 for coumaphos, cypermethrin, and IVM, respectively. It is concluded that young sheep in a production unit in Yucatán, Mexico, had high infestations of R. microplus, and toxicological evaluation showed susceptibility to the evaluated compounds.
This study established the sensitivity (SENS), specificity (SPEC), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of FAMACHA© 4-5 or 3-5, or BCS 1-2 when used to identify sheep or goats with gastrointestinal (GIN) egg counts >75th and 90th percentile at 10 farms in Mississippi state, U.S., during the fall and spring. Animals in five sheep and five goat farms were sampled in both seasons. At each visit, all adult females were assessed for FAMACHA© and body condition score (BCS), and individual fecal samples were collected. The GIN egg counts (eggs per gram of feces, EPG) were estimated with the McMaster method. Descriptive statistics (mean, median, skewness, 75th or 90th percentiles) were generated for each farm in each season, and for all the sheep or goat farms in each season. Respective 2 × 2 contingency tables were used to establish the association between FAMACHA© or BCS and the EPG thresholds (75th or 90th percentile) in both seasons. A series of 2 × 2 contingency tables were used to calculate the SENS, SPEC, PPV, and NPV for FAMACHA© 4-5 or 3-5, or BCS 1-2 to identify animals with EPG > 90th or > 75th percentile (cut-off points). More than 80% of the animals on the goat farms were infected but had low EPG in both seasons, with medians at 200 EPG or less and 90th percentiles at 1200 EPG in the fall and 1150 EPG in the spring. Meanwhile, < 68% of the ewes were infected with GIN on the surveyed farms in both seasons, with medians of 50 EPG and 90th percentiles of 935 EPG in the fall and 850 EPG in the spring. Except for FAMACHA© 4-5 in sheep, the FAMACHA© and BCS thresholds tested had poor PPV for identifying goats or sheep with EPG at or above the 90th or 75th percentile in the fall and spring. The low PPV was due to the high number of thin or anemic animals with low EPG counts (< 90th or 75th percentile). However, high NPVs were observed for both phenotypic indicators in goats and sheep across both seasons. Based on the results presented, pale FAMACHA© scores or low BCS alone should not be used as the sole criterion for anthelmintic treatment decisions on Mississippi farms. These tools are better interpreted as preliminary screening measures that should be followed by fecal egg count testing to guide deworming decisions.
Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) pose a significant threat to dogs and public health. Although Lebanon's environmental conditions favor transmission, data on the prevalence and risk factors of CVBDs such as Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi, and Dirofilaria immitis remain scarce. This study investigates the prevalence of these pathogens in dogs across key urban and peri-urban regions (North Lebanon, Mount Lebanon, and Beirut) while identifying associated risk factors contributing to their spread. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 425 dogs. Blood samples were collected during routine veterinary visits and analyzed using the SNAP® 4Dx® Plus ELISA test. Data on potential risk factors were collected and analyzed using pathogen-specific multivariable logistic regression models. Seroprevalence was 11.06% for Ehrlichia spp. (n = 47), 5.65% for Anaplasma spp. (n = 24), 2.12% for Borrelia burgdorferi (n = 9), and 1.65% for Dirofilaria immitis (n = 7). Ectoparasite infestations and housing three or more dogs were significantly associated with seropositivity for Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Borrelia burgdorferi (P < 0.05). For Dirofilaria immitis, housing three or more dogs was the only factor significantly associated with seropositivity. Additional pathogen-specific associations were identified for Ehrlichia spp., including age over six years (P = 0.03), female sex (P = 0.04), and the summer season (P = 0.02), while inadequate sanitation was significantly associated with Anaplasma spp. seropositivity (P = 0.01). This study represents the first comprehensive epidemiological investigation of CVBDs in Lebanon. The findings highlight host factors, environmental conditions, and management practices as key contributors to disease transmission and emphasize the need for holistic control programs, long-term surveillance, and strengthened collaboration to reduce zoonotic disease risk in Lebanon and the wider Middle East.
Rodents are cosmopolitan micromammals inhabiting a vast variety of ecosystems worldwide, also acting as relevant reservoirs of many zoonotic pathogens. This study aimed to review the knowledge about zoonotic A. cantonensis and Trichinella spp. in synanthropic rodents from the African continent and Madagascar. Our results revealed a quantitatively limited (n = 17) and geographically restricted (9 countries) publications evaluating the epidemiology of A. cantonensis and Trichinella spp. A total of five genera and nine rodent species were reported in the reviewed publications. Although genus Rattus was present in many of the selected articles and harboured the highest pathogen prevalence (3.2-100% for A. cantonensis and 12.2-13.3% for Trichinella spp.), our findings suggest that minor rodents (e.g., Arvichanthis spp. and Mastomys spp.) could act as local reservoirs of these zoonoses in Africa. The reviewed publications also evidenced a limited use of sensitive methodological procedures to evaluate pathogen circulation, so the promotion of artificial digestion for the isolation of Trichinella spp. larvae, and molecular-based assays to detect and characterise both A. cantonensis and Trichinella spp. are recommended. Our findings suggest that promoting rodent-based surveillance programs in African countries and implementing control strategies on synanthropic rodents could positively reduce the human exposure to A. cantonensis and Trichinella spp. Given global interconnectedness and the effective spread of pathogens across boundaries, cooperation between African health authorities and the international community is encouraged to develop epidemiological surveys in Africa in search of global health.
Soft ticks (Argasidae) remain among the least studied hematophagous ectoparasites. One of these species, Otobius megnini, the spiny ear tick, is a widely distributed, likely Nearctic-origin species whose global spread has been facilitated by the movement of cattle and horses-its primary hosts. Despite its generalist habits and ability to parasitize a wide range of mammals, including livestock and companion animals from the orders Artiodactyla and Carnivora, its role as a potential vector of pathogens remains poorly understood. Previous studies have linked O. megnini to otitis and tissue damage during its larval and nymphal stages, and it is suspected of contributing to the maintenance of Coxiella burnetii and Anaplasma sp., the causative agents of Q fever and anaplasmosis. This study aimed to detect bacterial and protozoan pathogens in O. megnini collected January 2019 and July 2023 from dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), cattle (Bos taurus), and the environment across three central Mexican states (Mexico State, Guanajuato, and Hidalgo). A total of 690 specimens (42 females, 13 males, 624 nymphs, and 11 larvae) from 50 hosts of two different species, as well as from the environment in 12 localities in the states of Mexico, Guanajuato, and Hidalgo, were analyzed using conventional PCR and sequencing to detect Anaplasma, Bartonella, Coxiella, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia, and Babesia. Bartonella bovis DNA was detected in 10 engorged nymphs recovered from cattle in the State of Mexico; no additional pathogens were found. This represents the first molecular detection of Bartonella in O. megnini worldwide and particularly in Mexico. Further studies are needed to assess its implications for animal and human health.
Piroplasmosis, caused by Theileria and Babesia species, is an emerging threat to the health and productivity of cattle in Bangladesh. This study investigated clinical incidence of bovine piroplasms in commercial cattle farms across the country. A total of 480 clinically diseased cattle were examined for epidemiology, hematology and genetic profiling of piroplasms. PCR confirmed the morbidity rates 83.6% for theileriosis and 79.5% for babesiosis, respectively. Theileriosis was mostly found in Chattogram (89.47%), whereas babesiosis was predominantly recorded in Rajshahi and Mymensingh (90.9%) divisions. Mortality rates were 8.9% (32/360) for theileriosis and 9.16% (11/120) for babesiosis, with the highest in Mymensingh division, highlighting regional vulnerability. Mixed infection with Theileria and Babesia spp. was 18.18% of the positive cases, indicating the possible synergistic effects and clinical complexities. The common clinical signs of piroplasmosis were persistent fever, anemia, jaundice, with lymphadenopathy characteristic of theileriosis and pathognomonic hemoglobinuria for babesiosis. Hematology revealed the reduction of hemoglobin, packed cell volume, erythrocytes and platelet count, along with leukopenia. Seasonal variations, age, gender, breed, and tick infestation were identified as significant risk factors for occurrence of piroplasmosis. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Theileria 18S rRNA clustered with T. orientalis from China and Babesia 18S rRNA with B. naoakii from Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. The phylogeny of spherical body protein (SBP4) gene was clustered with B. bovis reported from Tanzania. Future investigations into transmission dynamics, mixed infections and genetic diversity of parasites are recommended to strengthen effective control strategies.
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease affecting both humans and animals and is caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. In livestock, the infection leads to significant economic losses, mainly due to reproductive disorders such as abortion, and may cause severe clinical manifestations in pregnant and immunocompromised hosts. Despite its importance, updated epidemiological data on caprine toxoplasmosis in underreported regions of Algeria remain limited. Therefore, this study provides recent epidemiological insights from midland and lowland goat-rearing areas of the country. The present study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection and to identify associated risk factors in goats from Algeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2022 and February 2024. A total of 184 blood samples were collected from goats, including 155 females and 29 males, originating from Laghouat (n = 161) and Djelfa (n = 23) regions. Serum samples were tested for anti-T. gondii antibodies using the ID Screen® Toxoplasmosis Indirect ELISA Multi-species kit. Of the 184 sera analyzed, 23 were positive, yielding an overall seroprevalence of 12.5%, while one sample was classified as doubtful. Statistical analysis revealed that seropositivity was significantly associated with age (p < 0.001), breed (p = 0.007), production type (p = 0.005), feeding regime (p < 0.001), body condition score (p = 0.026), breeding system (p = 0.001), and region (p < 0.001). No significant association was observed with gender or cohabitation with other animal species. In conclusion, this study confirms the circulation of T. gondii among goats in Algeria, with a notable seroprevalence indicating ongoing transmission. These findings highlight the importance of continuous epidemiological surveillance to better understand transmission dynamics and to support the implementation of effective control strategies aimed at reducing economic losses and potential public health risks.
The development and transmission of Fasciola hepatica, a parasitic flatworm responsible for causing fasciolosis, depend on the presence of freshwater snails belonging to the family Lymnaeidae, mainly of the genus Galba, which are obligate intermediate hosts. Although accurate identification of these snails is critical to understand disease transmission, the morphological similarities between species make taxonomic identification difficult. This study provides the first genetic characterization of freshwater snail species of the genus Galba in Salta province, Argentina. Snails were collected from two contrasting ecoregions, the Shrubland Intermontane Valleys (SIV) and the Yungas Montane Forest and Jungle (YF) and first analyzed morphologically and then molecularly using ITS-1, ITS-2, and COI markers. Two morphotypes were identified: morphotype A (elongated shell) and morphotype B (robust, globular shell). Molecular analyses revealed the presence of Galba viator in SIV and Galba neotropica in both SIV and YF, confirming the coexistence of two sympatric species in SIV. Phylogenetic analyses distinguished G. viator from the G. neotropica/G. cubensis group. These results showed the limitations of morphology for species identification and highlight the relevance of ecological plasticity of G. neotropica. This study expands the knowledge of distribution of Galba species in Argentina and provides essential baseline data to evaluate fasciolosis transmission and design control strategies.