Journal
ACTA TROPICA
Volume 229, Issue -, Pages -Publisher
ELSEVIER
DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106370
Keywords
Anaplasma ovis; Sheep; Molecular prevalence; Genetic characterization; Phylogeny, msp4 gene; Egypt
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Funding
- King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia [RSP-2021/369]
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This study investigated the molecular prevalence and associated risk factors of A. ovis in sheep from Egypt. The overall molecular prevalence rate of A. ovis was found to be 15.5%, with the highest rate observed in Kafr ElSheikh governorate. Statistical analysis revealed that A. ovis infection was significantly associated with sheep gender and tick infestation.
Anaplasma ovis is the most common etiologic agent of ovine anaplasmosis, mainly transmitted by ticks. The present study aimed to determine the molecular prevalence of A. ovis in sheep from Egypt and assessed the associated risk factors. The study was conducted, between January and December 2020, in four governorates situated in Northern Egypt. Blood samples from 355 asymptomatic sheep were collected and examined by the use of PCR specific to A. ovis. Diversity analysis and phylogenetic study based on partial msp4 gene sequence were performed on revealed A. ovis DNA. Overall, the molecular prevalence rate of A. ovis was 15.5% and the highest rate was observed in Kafr ElSheikh governorate (16.8%). Statistical analysis revealed that A. ovis infection was significantly related to sheep gender and to tick infestation. The risk factors that were found to be associated with A. ovis infection in exposed sheep were: female sex (OR=2.6, 95%CI: 1.13-6.12), and infestation with ticks (OR=2.1, 95%CI: 1.11-3.79). The analysis of A. ovis msp4 sequences revealed two different genotypes classified in the Old World sub-cluster with other Egyptian isolates. Investigation on prevalence, risk factors and genetic variability of A. ovis in sheep reported in this study is important for the implementation of control programs. Further studies are needed to determine the vectors and reservoirs of A. ovis in Egyptian small ruminants and to identify the real economic impact of A. ovis infection on the country.
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