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We conducted surveillance studies in Sinaloa, Mexico, to determine the circulation of tick-borne relapsing fever spirochetes. We collected argasid ticks from a home in the village of Camayeca and isolated spirochetes. Genomic analysis indicated that Borrelia turicatae infection is a threat to those living in resource-limited settings.

Ticks are vectors for transmitting tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in animals and humans. Therefore, tick identification is necessary to understand the distribution of tick species and the pathogens they carry. Unfortunately, data on dog ticks and the TBPs they harbor in Malawi are incomplete. This study aimed to identify dog ticks and the TBPs they transmit in Malawi. One hundred thirty-two ticks were collected from 87 apparently healthy but infested domestic dogs in four districts of Malawi, which were pooled into 128 tick samples. The ticks were morphologically identified under a stereomicroscope using identification keys, and species identification was authenticated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) through the amplification and sequencing of 12S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (CO1) genes. The tick species identified were Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (58.3%), Haemaphysalis elliptica (32.6%), and Hyalomma truncatum (9.1%). Screening for TBPs using species-specific PCR assays revealed that 48.4% of the ticks were infected with at least one TBP. The TBP detection rates were 13.3% for Anaplasma platys, 10.2% for Babesia rossi, 8.6% for B. vogeli, 6.3% for Ehrlichia canis, 3.9% for A. phagocytophilum, 3.1% for B. gibsoni, 2.3% for B. canis and 0.8% for Hepatozoon canis. Co-infections of up to three pathogens were observed in 48.4% of the positive samples. This is the first study to identify dog ticks and the TBPs they harbor in Malawi. These findings provide the basis for understanding dog tick distribution and pathogens they carry in Malawi. This study necessitates the examination of ticks from more study locations to have a better picture of tick challenge, and the development of ticks and tick-borne disease control methods in Malawi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) is a semiaquatic carnivore and a top predator in the trophic chain, considered a sentinel of freshwater ecosystems. Ticks are common ectoparasites of worldwide distribution and potential vectors of diseases. In this study, we report the ectoparasitism by ticks on a giant otter carcass found during monitoring activity at the Negro River, that holds a viable population of this endangered species in the Brazilian Pantanal. A total of three tick specimens were collected: two adults were identified as Amblyomma sculptum and a nymph as Amblyomma spp. There is a lack of information about the health of free-ranging giant otters and this report contributes to elucidate some of the host-parasite relationships, although much more research is needed to expand the knowledge about which kinds of pathogens are circulating in the species, especially among those transmitted by ticks.

Background: Jingmen tick virus (JMTV) and Tacheng tick virus-1 (TcTV-1) are emerging tick-borne viruses that have been recently confirmed to be etiological agents of human disease in China. However, the ecology of JMTV and TcTV-1, especially their association with ticks in wildlife and livestock, remains largely unknown in Turkey. Materials and Methods: Eight hundred thirty-two tick specimens in 117 pools were collected in Turkey between 2020 and 2022 from wildlife ( Miniopterus schreibersii and Rhinolophus hipposideros; n  = 10, 1.2%; Testudo graeca; n  = 50, 6%) and livestock ( Ovis aries and Capra aegagrus hircus; n  = 772, 92.7%). The specimens were individually screened for JMTV and TcTV-1 using nRT-PCR assays targeting the partial genes. Results: JMTV was detected in one Ixodes simplex pool and two Rhipicephalus bursa pools collected from central and Aegean provinces, respectively. TcTV-1 was identified in five Hyalomma aegyptium pools collected in Mediterranean provinces. No coinfection was detected in the tick pools. Maximum likelihood analysis of JMTV partial segment 1 sequences reveal that these sequences form a separate cluster together with viruses previously characterized in Turkey and the Balkan Peninsula. The phylogenetic analysis of the TcTV-1 nucleocapsid sequences indicates that they are closely related to viruses in ticks, sheep, cattle, and humans in China, but form a separate group among themselves. Conclusion: This study provides the first molecular evidence of TcTV-1 in Hy. aegyptium in Turkey. In addion, these findings indicate that JMTV and TcTV-1 extend ticks species and geographic distributions. Thus, multiregional surveillance in livestock and wildlife is needed to evaluate potential tick vectors and the human health impact of these viruses in Turkey.

We evaluated the presence of Ehrlichia spp. in unfed capybara ticks, Amblyomma dubitatum, and explored its association with capybaras density, ticks density and environmental variables. We observed that in the Iberá wetlands ecoregion A. dubitatum is infected by "Candidatus Ehrlichia hydrochoerus" and in a lesser extent with an Ehrlichia species closely related to Ehrlichia chaffeensis. The frequency of "Ca. Ehrlichia hydrochoerus" presence in A. dubitatum was not associated with vector abundance, but the probability of finding "Ca. Ehrlichia hydrochoerus"-infected ticks increased when the density of capybaras was low two months before. We hypothesize that when the density of capybaras decreases, A. dubitatum immature stages may seek out alternative hosts one of which could exhibit high realized reservoir competence for "Ca. Ehrlichia hydrochoerus", leading to an increased prevalence of this ehrlichiae in questing A. dubitatum. High minimum temperatures and high cumulative rainfall in the time period previous to tick collection (15 to 60 days) were positively correlated with the prevalence of "Ca. Ehrlichia hydrochoerus" infection in A. dubitatum. Our results suggest that a combination of factors (both biological and abiotic) could raise the risk of human exposure to tick-borne Ehrlichia in the Iberá wetlands ecoregion., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: Ticks are obligate hematophagous ectoparasites involved in transmitting viruses of public health importance. The objective of this work was to identify the Jingmen tick virus in hard ticks from the Colombian Caribbean, an arbovirus of importance for public health. Methods: Ticks were collected in rural areas of Córdoba and Cesar, Colombia. Taxonomic identification of ticks was carried out, and pools of 13 individuals were formed. RNA extraction was performed. Library preparation was performed with the MGIEasy kit, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) with MGI equipment. Bioinformatic analyses and taxonomic assignments were performed using the Galaxy platform, and phylogenetic analyses were done using IQ-TREE2. Results: A total of 766 ticks were collected, of which 87.33% (669/766) were Rhipicephalus microplus, 5.4% (42/766) Dermacentor nitens, 4.2% (32/766) Rhipicephalus linnaei, and 3.0% (23/766) Amblyomma dissimile. Complete and partial segments 1, 2, 3, and 4 of Jingmen tick virus (JMTV) were detected in the metatranscriptome of the species R. microplus, D. nitens, and A. dissimile. The JMTVs detected are phylogenetically related to JMTVs detected in Aedes albopictus in France, JMTVs detected in R. microplus in Trinidad and Tobago, JMTVs in R. microplus and A. variegatum in the French Antilles, and JMTVs detected in R. microplus in Colombia. Interestingly, our sequences clustered closely with JMTV detected in humans from Kosovo. Conclusions: JMTV was detected in R. microplus, D. nitens, and A. dissimile. JMTV could pose a risk to humans. Therefore, it is vital to establish epidemiological surveillance measures to better understand the possible role of JMTV in tropical diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging tick-borne zoonosis caused by the SFTS virus (SFTSV). Understanding the prevalence of SFTSV RNA in humans, vertebrate hosts and ticks is crucial for SFTS control. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the prevalence of SFTSV RNA in humans, vertebrate hosts and questing ticks. Nine electronic databases were searched for relevant publications, and data on SFTSV RNA prevalence were extracted. Pooled prevalence was estimated using a random effects model. Subgroup analysis and multivariable meta-regression were performed to investigate sources of heterogeneity. Results: The pooled prevalence of SFTSV RNA in humans was 5.59% (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.78–9.15%) in those in close contact (close contacts) with infected individuals (infected cases) and 0.05% (95% CI 0.00–0.65%) in healthy individuals in endemic areas. The SFTSV infection rates in artiodactyls (5.60%; 95% CI 2.95–8.96%) and carnivores (6.34%; 95% CI 3.27–10.23%) were higher than those in rodents (0.45%; 95% CI 0.00–1.50%). Other animals, such as rabbits, hedgehogs and birds, also played significant roles in SFTSV transmission. The genus Haemaphysalis was the primary transmission vector, with members of Ixodes, Dermacentor, and Amblyomma also identified as potential vectors. The highest pooled prevalence was observed in adult ticks (1.03%; 95% CI 0.35–1.96%), followed by nymphs (0.66%; 95% CI 0.11–1.50%) and larvae (0.01%; 95% CI 0.00–0.46%). The pooled prevalence in ticks collected from endemic areas (1.86%; 95% CI 0.86–3.14%) was higher than that in ticks collected in other regions (0.41%; 95% CI 0.12–0.81%). Conclusions: Latent SFTSV infections are present in healthy individuals residing in endemic areas, and close contacts with SFTS cases are at a significantly higher risk of infection. The type of animal is linked to infection rates in vertebrate hosts, while infection rates in ticks are associated with the developmental stage. Further research is needed to investigate the impact of various environmental factors on SFTSV prevalence in vertebrate hosts and ticks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Ehrlichia canis has been the main hemopathogen affecting domestic dogs in Brazil. Even though tick-infested dogs may lead to household infestation and predispose human exposure and public health concern, no comprehensive study has surveyed humans, dogs, and environmental ticks altogether. Materials and Methods: Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess tick-infested households, identify tick species, perform serological (immunofluorescence assay) and molecular (PCR and q-PCR) detection of Ehrlichia in ticks, in the eighth biggest metropolitan area of Brazil. Results: Between 2007 and 2020, 233/5973 (3.9%) out of all complaints were from tick-infested households of 200 different addresses. Overall, 370/552 (67.0%) ticks were collected and identified as adult and 182/552 (33.0%) as immature forms of Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. complex; a single tick from one owner, a female tick of Amblyomma sculptum; and 395 ticks from dogs, 319/395 (80.8%) adult and 72/395 (18.2%) immature forms of Rhipicephalus spp., and 4/395 (1.01%) female Amblyomma aureolatum. Overall, 2/135 (1.5%) owners and 13/136 (9.6%) dogs were seropositive for E. canis. The DNA of Anaplasmataceae family was molecularly detected in 16/50 (32.0%) R. sanguineus s.l. As expected, the number of monthly tick infestation complaints were directly associated, and mean (p = 0.01), maximum (p = 0.011), and minimum (p = 0.008) temperature were statistically significant and had a low positive correlation (0.24, 0.23, and 0.24, respectively). In addition, complaints were highly associated to all socioeconomic variables (p < 0.001), with the exception of the presence of vacant lots. Conclusions: Despite low samplings and human negative results, areas with low-income with adequate temperature and urban agglomerations have been shown to be associated risks for tick infestations, predisposing tick-borne diseases. In conclusion, monitoring should always be conducted in such areas, including One Health approach with serosurvey of owners and dogs, along with identification and molecular screening of ticks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the misidentification of arthropods as ticks in community science programs, specifically focusing on the eTick platform in Canada. The study analyzes non-target taxa submissions from 2019 to 2023 and identifies commonly mistaken arthropods such as spider beetles, Japanese beetles, and weevils. The article suggests that certain characteristics of these arthropods, such as their appearance and habitat, contribute to the misidentification. The study emphasizes the need for better outreach tools and education to help the public differentiate between ticks and other arthropods, and highlights the importance of regional context and language in community science programs. Ultimately, the article advocates for a multi-faceted approach to combat entomophobia and promote a harmonious coexistence between humans and arthropods. [Extracted from the article]

Amblyomma ticks are vectors of both Rickettsia rickettsii and R. parkeri in the Americas, where capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are the main hosts in urban areas, thus contributing to the transmission of spotted fever. Herein, we studied: (i) the seasonal dynamics and abundance of ticks in areas where capybaras live, (ii) the effect of environmental variables on tick abundance, and (iii) the presence of Rickettsia-infected ticks. Between September 2021 and September 2022, we sampled ticks using cloth-dragging at 194 sites on the shore of Lake Paranoá in Brasília, Brazil. We measured environmental data (season, vegetation type, canopy density, temperature, humidity, and presence or vestige of capybara) at each site. Nymphs and adults were morphologically identified to the species level, and a selected tick sample including larvae was subjected to genotypic identification. We investigated Rickettsia-infected ticks by PCR (gltA, htrA, ompB, and ompA genes) and associations between tick abundance and environmental variables using Generalized Linear Models. A total of 30,334 ticks (96% larvae) were captured. Ticks were identified as Amblyomma, with A. sculptum comprising 97% of the adult/nymphs. Genotype identification of a larval sample confirmed that 95% belonged to A. dubitatum. Seasonal variables showed significant effects on tick abundance. Most larvae and nymphs were captured during the early dry season, while the adults were more abundant during the wet season. Vegetation variables and the presence of capybaras showed no association with tick abundance. Rickettsia parkeri group and R. bellii were identified in A. dubitatum, while A. sculptum presented R. bellii. We conclude that: (i) Amblyomma ticks are widely distributed in Lake Paranoá throughout the year, especially larvae at the dry season, (ii) the abundance of Amblyomma ticks is explained more by climatic factors than by vegetation or presence of capybaras, and (iii) A. dubitatum ticks are potential vectors of R. parkeri in Brasília. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, significant changes have been observed in the distribution and abundance of local Dermacentor reticulatus populations. However, changes in D. reticulatus dynamics have not been studied in southeastern Poland. Our objective was to enhance our understanding of the environmental factors influencing the occurrence and density of D. reticulatus in this area. Additionally, we sought to investigate the genetic diversity of the tick population and the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens (TBPs). To this end, we established 45 study sites in the Subcarpathian province. Ticks were collected during their peak activity in both spring and autumn. A subset of randomly selected specimens underwent molecular analysis for TBPs screening, using high-throughput microfluidic real-time PCR. Positive amplicons were then sequenced, and phylogenetic analyses were conducted. Our findings confirmed the presence of D. reticulatus ticks in 24 surveyed sites, primarily concentrated in the northern and eastern parts of the region. The mean density of D. reticulatus ticks in their compact range was 5.8 ± 6.4 specimens/100 m2. Notably, air temperature and altitude emerged as significant factors influencing the species' activity. We also identified a high prevalence of Rickettsia raoultii infections in adult D. reticulatus, reaching up to 84.21%. Additionally, 9.52% of ticks were found to be infected with R. helvetica and 4.76% with Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Furthermore, our genetic analyses confirmed the identity of D. reticulatus in the Subcarpathian region, aligning with haplotypes found in other regions of Poland, Czechia, Croatia, and Portugal. In conclusion, our study suggests that the surveyed region represents the current boundary of the compact range of D. reticulatus in Poland in which this tick species exhibits low genetic diversity and a narrow spectrum of detected TBPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasive Asian longhorned tick Haemaphysalis longicornis that vectors and transmits several animal pathogens is significantly expanding in the United States. Recent studies report that these ticks also harbor human pathogens including Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Babesia microti, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Therefore, studies that address the interactions of these ticks with human pathogens are important. In this study, we report the characterization of H. longicornis organic anion-transporting polypeptides (OATPs) in interactions of these ticks with A. phagocytophilum. Using OATP-signature sequence, we identified six OATPs in the H. longicornis genome. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that H. longicornis OATPs are closer to other tick orthologs rather than to mammalian counterparts. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that OATPs are highly expressed in immature stages when compared to mature stages of these ticks. In addition, we noted that the presence of A. phagocytophilum upregulates a specific OATP in these ticks. We also noted that exogenous treatment of H. longicornis with xanthurenic acid, a tryptophan metabolite, influenced OATP expression in these ticks. Immunoblotting analysis revealed that antibody generated against Ixodes scapularis OATP cross-reacted with H. longicornis OATP. Furthermore, treatment of H. longicornis with OATP antibody impaired colonization of A. phagocytophilum in these ticks. These results not only provide evidence that the OATP-tryptophan pathway is important for A. phagocytophilum survival in H. longicornis ticks but also indicate OATP as a promising candidate for the development of a universal anti-tick vaccine to target this bacterium and perhaps other rickettsial pathogens of medical importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The dispersion of ixodid ticks depends on their hosts, with tick density correlating positively with host density. Water deer, designated as harmful wildlife due to their foraging activities in croplands, are considered significant hosts for dispersing ixodid ticks within human residential areas. Over the course of two years, a substantial number of water deer captured while entering croplands were subjected to analysis for the presence of parasitic ixodid ticks. The findings revealed a notable mean intensity of nymphs and adults during summer, whereas larvae were found to be more abundant during fall. The number of larvae correlated positively with the population density of water deer. MaxEnt modeling predicted broad distribution areas for water deer in summer, coinciding with abundant crops, and similarly for nymphs and adults, which peak in summer. Forest valleys converted into croplands are expected to promote ixodid tick dispersion due to alignment with the habitat preferences of water deer and increased crop utilization. Since agricultural factors contribute significantly to the occurrence of tick-borne diseases, preventive measures such as selective land clearing and crop selection should be implemented to mitigate human contact with ixodid ticks in farming environments. Tick-borne diseases result from human–ixodid tick encounters, making it crucial to understand host–ixodid tick interactions and host-dependent distribution for epidemiology and prevention. This study examines water deer patterns and ixodid tick interactions in designated croplands of South Korea over two years, finding that the highest deer presence occurred in July and the lowest in May, during crop harvesting. Four tick species were identified, with Haemaphysalis longicornis being predominant (92.2%). Tick life stage analysis revealed peak nymphs and adults in July and larvae in October. Nymph abundance correlated positively with nearby water deer. MaxEnt biodiversity prediction results indicated wider water deer distribution in summer, reflecting their tendency to use multiple croplands. Areas with nymphs and adults aligned with predicted deer presence in summer, while larval areas aligned in autumn. Increased agroforestry expanded water deer habitats, enhancing tick dispersion. Prevention involved minimizing human–deer encounters by strategic land use in tick-prone areas. This comprehensive study provides insights into preventing severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome in agricultural workers, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions based on host behavior and tick life stages in different seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ticks are the main arthropod vector of pathogens to humans and livestock in the British Isles. Despite their role as a vector of disease, many aspects of tick biology, ecology, and microbial association are poorly understood. To address this, we investigated the composition of the microbiome of adult and nymphal Ixodes ricinus ticks. The ticks were collected on a dairy farm in Southwest England and RNA extracted for whole genome sequencing. Sequences were detected from a range of microorganisms, particularly tick-associated viruses, bacteria, and nematodes. A majority of the viruses were attributed to phlebo-like and nairo-like virus groups, demonstrating a high degree of homology with the sequences present in I. ricinus from mainland Europe. A virus sharing a high sequence identity with Chimay rhabdovirus, previously identified in ticks from Belgium, was detected. Further investigations of I. ricinus ticks collected from additional sites in England and Wales also identified Chimay rhabdovirus viral RNA with varying prevalence in all tick populations. This suggests that Chimay rhabdovirus has a wide distribution and highlights the need for an extended exploration of the tick microbiome in the United Kingdom (UK). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Anaplasma marginale is an obligate intraerythrocytic rickettsial parasite that infects cattle in tropical and subtropical regions. There is no evidence that A. marginale inoculation can be used to culture Rhipicephalus annulatus in rabbits. This study aimed to determine the molting of R. annulatus larvae, nymphs, and adults on rabbits as well as nymphs and adults of R. annulatus on calves with or without A. marginale. Transstadial, horizontal, and transovarial transmissions of A. marginale in R. annulatus reared on rabbits and calves were evaluated. Materials and Methods: Engorged female ticks were collected from field samples of A. marginale-infected and noninfected cattle. We divided the eight rabbits into two groups: A and B. Group A rabbits were infected with A. marginale through parenteral inoculation, whereas Group B rabbits were kept as a control. The "clean rabbits" in Group B were observed for tick rearing without A. marginale. Polymerase chain reaction was used to screen A. marginale in rabbits and stages of tick. The complete life cycle of R. annulatus with or without A. marginale was observed on rabbits. Results: A 6.5-day longer life cycle was observed in ticks harboring A. marginale than in ticks without A. marginale. To observe transstadial transmission, transstadial, horizontal, and transovarial transmissions of A. marginale in R. annulatus ticks were experimentally observed in one clean calf fed separately with infected nymphs and female adult ticks. Conclusion: We experimentally observed transovarian, transstadial, and transovarial transmission of A. marginale in R. annulatus ticks as a biological vector reared on calves and rabbits. We used rabbits as a model animal for rearing R. annulatus ticks and culture of A. marginale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ticks and pathogens they carry seriously impact human and animal health, with some diseases like Lyme and Alpha-gal syndrome posing risks. Searching for health information online can change people's health and preventive behaviors, allowing them to face the tick risks. This study aimed to predict the potential risks of tickborne diseases by examining individuals' online search behavior., Methods: By scrutinizing the search trends across various geographical areas and timeframes within the United States, we determined outdoor activities associated with potential risks of tick-related diseases. Google Trends was used as the data collection and analysis tool due to its accessibility to big data on people's online searching behaviors. We interact with vast amounts of population search data and provide inferences between population behavior and health-related phenomena. Data were collected in the United States from April 2022 to March 2023, with some terms about outdoor activities and tick risks., Results and Discussion: Results highlighted the public's risk susceptibility and severity when participating in activities. Our results found that searches for terms related to tick risk were associated with the five-year average Lyme Disease incidence rates by state, reflecting the predictability of online health searching for tickborne disease risks. Geographically, the results revealed that the states with the highest relative search volumes for tick-related terms were predominantly located in the Eastern region. Periodically, terms can be found to have higher search records during summer. In addition, the results showed that terms related to outdoor activities, such as "corn maze," "hunting," "u-pick," and "park," have moderate associations with tick-related terms. This study provided recommendations for effective communication strategies to encourage the public's adoption of health-promoting behaviors. Displaying warnings in the online search results of individuals who are at high risk for tick exposure or collaborating with outdoor activity locations to disseminate physical preventive messages may help mitigate the risks associated with tickborne diseases., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Yang, Baker and McLeod-Morin.)

Ticks and tick-borne pathogens (TTBP) pose a serious threat to animal and human health globally. Anaplasma bovis, an obligatory intracellular bacterium, is one of the more recent species of the Family Anaplasmaceae to be formally described. Owing to its diminutive size, microscopic detection presents a formidable challenge, leading to it being overlooked in laboratory settings lacking advanced equipment or resources, as observed in various regions, including Thailand. This study aimed to undertake a genetic analysis of A. bovis and determine its prevalence in goats and ticks utilizing three genetic markers (16S rRNA, gltA, groEL). A total of 601 goat blood and 118 tick samples were collected from 12 sampling sites throughout Thailand. Two tick species, Haemaphysalis bispinosa (n = 109), and Rhipicephalus microplus (n = 9) were identified. The results herein showed that 13.8 % (83/601) of goats at several farms and 5 % (1/20) of ticks were infected with A. bovis. Among infected ticks, A. bovis and an uncultured Anaplasma sp. which are closely related to A. phagocytophilum-like 1, were detected in each of H. bispinosa ticks. The remaining R. microplus ticks tested positive for the Anaplasma genus. A nucleotide sequence type network showed that A. bovis originated from Nan and Narathiwat were positioned within the same cluster and closely related to China isolates. This observation suggests the potential dispersal of A. bovis over considerable distances, likely facilitated by activities such as live animal trade or the transportation of infected ticks via migratory birds. The authors believe that the findings from this study will provide valuable information about TTBP in animals., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest. We additionally affirm the originality of our work, stating that it has not been submitted elsewhere. All authors have thoroughly reviewed the final manuscript and concur with its content., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Tick-borne infections are of great importance for many regions of Russia, including Eastern Siberia. This unfavorable epidemiological situation can be characterized not only by the circulation of well-known tick-borne infections, but also by the identification of new pathogens, the role of which remains little or generally unexplored. Multicomponent flavi-like viruses can cause infectious diseases in humans and pose a threat to public health. The purpose of the study was the identification and molecular genetic characterization of the Alongshan , ALSV) isolates, transmitted by ticks in the south of Eastern Siberia.virus ( Flaviviridae , ALSV) isolates, transmitted by ticks in the south of Eastern Siberia., Materials and Methods: Total 1060 ticks were collected and analyzed from the territory of the Republics of Khakassia, Tuva, Buryatia, Irkutsk Region and Transbaikal Territory (Zabaykalsky Krai) in the spring-summer period 2023. ALSV RNA was detected by RT-PCR followed by nucleotide sequence determination and phylogenetic analysis for each segment of the genome., Results: The ALSV infection rate in Ixodes ticks collected in the Republic of Khakassia was 3.3% (95% CI: 1.4-7.5); in Irkutsk Oblast - 1.0% (95% CI: 0.3-3.7); in the Republic of Tuva - 0.9% (95% CI: 0.3-3.4) and in Transbaikal Krai - 0.7% (95% CI: 0.2-3.6). Sequences of all four segments of ALSV genetic variants circulating in ticks in the south of Eastern Siberia are grouped with sequences found in China and clustered into the Asian subgroup transmitted by taiga ticks. The level of difference in the nucleotide sequences of genome fragments among the identified genetic variants of ALSV ranged from 2 to 3%.persulcatus ticks collected in the Republic of Khakassia was 3.3% (95% CI: 1.4-7.5); in Irkutsk Oblast - 1.0% (95% CI: 0.3-3.7); in the Republic of Tuva - 0.9% (95% CI: 0.3-3.4) and in Transbaikal Krai - 0.7% (95% CI: 0.2-3.6). Sequences of all four segments of ALSV genetic variants circulating in I . persulcatus ticks in the south of Eastern Siberia are grouped with sequences found in China and clustered into the Asian subgroup transmitted by taiga ticks. The level of difference in the nucleotide sequences of genome fragments among the identified genetic variants of ALSV ranged from 2 to 3%., Conclusion: The article shows the widespread distribution of ALSV in I ticks in the Republics of Khakassia and Tyva, Irkutsk Oblast and Transbaikal Territory. The obtained data actualize monitoring of changes in the area of distribution of potentially dangerous for humans flavi-like viruses and their vectors.. persulcatus ticks in the Republics of Khakassia and Tyva, Irkutsk Oblast and Transbaikal Territory. The obtained data actualize monitoring of changes in the area of distribution of potentially dangerous for humans flavi-like viruses and their vectors.

IntroductionCoxiella burnetii (C. burnetii)-infected livestock and wildlife have been epidemiologically linked to human Q fever outbreaks. Despite this growing zoonotic threat, knowledge of coxiellosis in wild animals remains limited, and studies to understand their epidemiologic role are needed. In C. burnetii-endemic areas, ticks have been reported to harbor and spread C. burnetii and may serve as indicators of risk of infection in wild animal habitats. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare molecular techniques for detecting C. burnetii DNA in ticks.MethodsIn total, 169 ticks from wild animals and cattle in wildlife conservancies in northern Kenya were screened for C. burnetii DNA using a conventional PCR (cPCR) and two field-friendly techniques: Biomeme’s C. burnetii qPCR Go-strips (Biomeme) and a new C. burnetii PCR high-resolution melt (PCR-HRM) analysis assay. Results were evaluated, in the absence of a gold standard test, using Bayesian latent class analysis (BLCA) to characterize the proportion of C. burnetii positive ticks and estimate sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of the three tests.ResultsThe final BLCA model included main effects and estimated that PCR-HRM had the highest Se (86%; 95% credible interval: 56–99%), followed by the Biomeme (Se = 57%; 95% credible interval: 34–90%), with the estimated Se of the cPCR being the lowest (24%, 95% credible interval: 10–47%). Specificity estimates for all three assays ranged from 94 to 98%. Based on the model, an estimated 16% of ticks had C. burnetii DNA present.DiscussionThese results reflect the endemicity of C. burnetii in northern Kenya and show the promise of the PCR-HRM assay for C. burnetii surveillance in ticks. Further studies using ticks and wild animal samples will enhance understanding of the epidemiological role of ticks in Q fever.

Abstract Background Ticks carry a variety of microorganisms, some of which are pathogenic to humans. The human risk of tick-borne diseases depends on, among others, the prevalence of pathogens in ticks biting humans. To follow-up on this prevalence over time, a Belgian study from 2017 was repeated in 2021. Methods During the tick season 2021, citizens were invited to have ticks removed from their skin, send them and fill in a short questionnaire on an existing citizen science platform for the notification of tick bites (TekenNet). Ticks were morphologically identified to species and life stage level and screened using multiplex qPCR targeting, among others, Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato), Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia miyamotoi, Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Babesia spp., Rickettsia helvetica and tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). The same methodology as in 2017 was used. Results In 2021, the same tick species as in 2017 were identified in similar proportions; of 1094 ticks, 98.7% were Ixodes ricinus, 0.8% Ixodes hexagonus and 0.5% Dermacentor reticulatus. A total of 928 nymphs and adults could be screened for the presence of pathogens. Borrelia burgdorferi (s.l.) was detected in 9.9% (95% CI 8.2–12.0%), which is significantly lower than the prevalence of 13.9% (95% CI 12.2–15.7%) in 2017 (P = 0.004). The prevalences of A. phagocytophilum (4.7%; 95% CI 3.5–6.3%) and R. helvetica (13.3%; 95% CI 11.2–15.6%) in 2021 were significantly higher compared to 2017 (1.8%; 95% CI 1.3–2.7% and 6.8%; 95% CI 5.6–8.2% respectively) (P

Abstract Background Amblyomma spp. ticks, known for their long mouthparts, bright ornate appearance and aggressive hunting behaviour, are vectors of a number of important pathogens. In southern Africa, 17 Amblyomma spp. are currently documented. Of these species, Amblyomma hebraeum and Amblyomma variegatum have been well studied due to their wide geographical range and their status as competent vectors of pathogens that are of veterinary and medical importance. Studies on other Amblyomma spp. in southern Africa have been neglected, fostering ongoing debates on the validity of certain species such as Amblyomma pomposum. This study investigated the inter- and intra-species variation of Amblyomma ticks collected in southern Africa, focusing on resolving the dispute about A. pomposum and A. variegatum being distinct species. Methods Four Amblyomma tick species were collected from Angola, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, and were identified morphologically as Amblyomma eburneum (208), A. hebraeum (4758), A. pomposum (191) and A. variegatum (2577) using identification keys. Gene amplification targeting the 12S and 16S rRNA, cytochrome oxidase I, cytochrome B and internal transcribed spacer-2 genes was conducted for 204 ticks, for which varying success was achieved during amplification for each of the markers. Maximum likelihood analyses were performed in IQ-TREE. Results The phylogenetic topologies and ABGD analyses of each individual gene clustered A. pomposum within the A. variegatum clade, while clearly separating A. eburneum and A. hebraeum from all other species. None of the genetic markers indicated intraspecific structuring on the basis of geographical origin, despite great distances between sampling sites. Conclusion Our study concludes that there is insufficient molecular evidence to differentiate A. pomposum and A. variegatum from each other. We highlight the need for whole mitochondrial genome sequencing of these two species to resolve the ongoing controversies. Furthermore, we propose mating and hybrid viability studies between the two species to confirm their reproductive isolation. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background Bartonella spp. infect a variety of vertebrates throughout the world, with generally high prevalence. Several Bartonella spp. are known to cause diverse clinical manifestations in humans and have been recognized as emerging pathogens. These bacteria are mainly transmitted by blood-sucking arthropods, such as fleas and lice. The role of ticks in the transmission of Bartonella spp. is unclear. Methods A recently developed quadruplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplicon next-generation sequencing approach that targets Bartonella-specific fragments on gltA, ssrA, rpoB, and groEL was applied to test host-seeking Ixodes scapularis ticks (n = 1641; consisting of 886 nymphs and 755 adults) collected in 23 states of the eastern half of the United States and Ixodes pacificus ticks (n = 966; all nymphs) collected in California in the western United States for the presence of Bartonella DNA. These species were selected because they are common human biters and serve as vectors of pathogens causing the greatest number of vector-borne diseases in the United States. Results No Bartonella DNA was detected in any of the ticks tested by any target. Conclusions Owing to the lack of Bartonella detection in a large number of host-seeking Ixodes spp. ticks tested across a broad geographical region, our results strongly suggest that I. scapularis and I. pacificus are unlikely to contribute more than minimally, if at all, to the transmission of Bartonella spp. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Ticks are blood-sucking ectoparasites that act as vectors for transmission of various pathogens. The purpose of this study was to assess tick-borne bacteria, whether pathogenic or not, in ticks distributed in Korea using 16S rRNA metabarcoding and to confirm the results by PCR. Questing ticks were collected from four provinces in Korea in 2021 using the flagging method. After pooling the DNAs from the 61 tick pools (including 372 ticks), the bacterial 16S rRNA V3–V4 hypervariable region was amplified and sequenced using the MiSeq platform. Rickettsia, Ehrlichia, and the endosymbiont Wolbachia were confirmed by conventional PCR and molecular analysis. In total, 6907 ticks (534 pools) were collected and identified as belonging to five species (Haemaphysalis spp., H. longicornis, H. flava, I. nipponensis, and A. testudinarium). Through 16S rRNA metabarcoding, 240 amplicon sequence variants were identified. The dominant taxa were Rickettsiella and Coxiella. Additionally, pathogenic bacteria such as Rickettsia and Ehrlichia, endosymbiotic bacteria such as Wolbachia and Spiroplasma were identified. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to confirm the presence of Rickettsia, Ehrlichia, Bartonella, and Wolbachia in individual ticks. Overall, 352 (65.92%) of 534 pools tested positive for at least one of the screened tick-borne bacteria. Rickettsia was the most prevalent (61.42%), followed by Wolbachia (5.05%). Ehrlichia was detected in 4.86% of tested samples, whereas Bartonella was not detected. In this study, 16S rRNA metabarcoding revealed the presence of Rickettsia, Wolbachia, and Ehrlichia, in that order of abundance, while showing absence of Bartonella. These results were confirmed to exhibit the same trend as that of the conventional PCR. Therefore, large-scale screening studies based on pooling, as applied in this study, will be useful for examining novel or rare pathogens present in various hosts and vectors.

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of six essential oils obtained from sour orange (Citrus aurantium L.), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf.), litsea (Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers.), clove (Eugenia caryophyllata Thunb.) and curcumin (Curcuma longa Linn.) against cattle ticks. Two essential oils demonstrated the greatest significant efficiency and were chosen for further testing on the cattle skin. The results showed that the 8% lemongrass essential oil had the most significant inhibiting effect on the oviposition of engorged female cattle ticks, whereas ginger oil, curcumin oil, sour orange, litsea oil and clove oil, showed lesser effect respectively (p

Abstract Babesia spp. and Theileria spp. are tick-borne protozoan parasites with veterinary importance. In China, epidemiological and genetic investigations on many Babesia and Theileria species were still absent in many areas and many tick species. From Aug 2021 to May 2023, 645 ticks were collected from the body surface of domestic animals (camels, goats, sheep, and cattle) using tweezers in seven counties in three provinces including Xinjiang (Qitai, Mulei, Hutubi, and Shihezi counties), Chongqing (Youyang and Yunyang counties), and Qinghai (Huangzhong county). Three tick species were morphologically and molecularly identified (334 Hyalomma asiaticum from Xinjiang, 245 Rhipicephalus microplus from Chongqing, and 66 Haemaphysalis qinghaiensis from Qinghai). A total of three Babesia species and two Theileria species were detected targeting the 18S gene. The COI and cytb sequences were also recovered from Babesia strains for further identification. In R. microplus from Chongqing, Babesia bigemina, the agent of bovine babesiosis, was detected. Notably, in H. asiaticum ticks from Xinjiang, a putative novel genotype of Babesia caballi was identified (0.90%, 3/334), whose COI and cytb genes have as low as 85.82% and 90.64–90.91% nucleotide identities to currently available sequences. It is noteworthy whether the sequence differences of its cytb contribute to the drug resistance of this variant due to the involvement of cytb in the drug resistance of Babesia. In addition, Theileria orientalis and Theileria annulata were detected in R. microplus from Chongqing (12.20%, 31/245) and H. asiaticum from Xinjiang (1.50%, 5/334), respectively. These results suggest that these protozoan parasites may be circulating in domestic animals in these areas. The pathogenicity of the novel genotype of B. caballi also warrants further investigation.

The aim of the work was to determine the species diversity of the causative agents of Ixodidae tick-borne borrelioses in Ixodes persulcatus ticks in the Khabarovsk Territory.Materials and methods. During the epidemic season (April–October) 2017–2023, 4751 specimens of I. persulcatus Schulze, 1930, removed after attachment to humans and 418 ones collected from vegetation in the Khabarovsk Region, were studied. Ixodidae ticks were collected in the green areas of Khabarovsk city during the snowless season of 2021–2023, as well as in the territory of the Khabarovsk Region on the flag. DNA of the borrelia complex Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) and B. miyamotoi was detected in ticks using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Differentiation of borrelia species in samples containing genetic material of B. burgdorferi s.l. was carried out in two stages. At the first stage, the presence of DNA from borrelia of the B. garinii s.l. group (B. garinii + B. bavariensis) and B. afzelii DNA was determined in the sample. At the second stage, positive samples of B. garinii s.l. were differentiated into B. garinii sensu stricto (s.s.) and B. bavariensis. Results and discussion. In engorged ticks, genetic material of B. burgdorferi s.l. was detected in 45.7 % of the cases, DNA of B. miyamotoi was identified in 7.2 % of samples. In ticks collected from vegetation, the DNA of B. burgdorferi s.l. was detected in 38.0 % of cases. Upon further study, the genetic material of B. afzelii and borrelia of the B. garinii s.l. group was identified in 47.2 % of cases for both pathogens. Within the group B. garinii s.l., DNA of B. bavariensis was detected in 18.6 %, B. garinii s.s. – in 8 % of samples, at the same time, mixed infection was noted in 53.3 % of cases. The infection rate with B. afzelii in I. persulcatus ticks turned out to be statistically significantly higher than that for B. garinii s.s. and B. bavariensis, thereat statistically significant differences in tick infection rates with B. garinii s.s. and B. bavariensis was not detected.