Investigation of Ixodid ticks as vectors of Babesia caballi and Theileria equi (Protozoa: Apicomplexa) in central Italy

In this study, we identified a potential competent vector, investigating main features of its ecology together with EP infection rates. A two ‐year sampling of questing ticks was carried outfor the first time in Italy in an area known for high EP prevalence in horse sera, detectingthe association between Rhipicephalus bursa and causative agents of EP. Most of the positive pools harbored a single infection (91.1%); mixed infections were also detected (8.9%). The infection rate forT. equi slightly decreased among years;B. caballi showed a lower, but increasing, infection rate. Tick phenology, climate variables, and peaks of EP prevalence indicated late May and second half of June as periods with the highest risk of new infections, especially during warm and dry days.
Source: Journal of Vector Ecology - Category: Biology Authors: Tags: Original Article Source Type: research