First molecular detection of Babesia vulpes and Babesia capreoli in wild boars from southern Italy.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Following the increase of wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations in Europe, a potential risk of emerging infections by vector-borne pathogens may occur. Despite this, the circulation of piroplasmid species in these ungulates is still a neglected topic, particularly in the Mediterranean basin. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the presence of Babesia/Theileria spp. in wild boars from southern Italy to assess the epidemiological role of these ungulates in the circulation of piroplasmids.

Methods

By using a citizen science approach among hunters and veterinarians, wild boar spleen samples were collected in the Campania region (southern Italy) between 2016 and 2022. A combined semi-nested PCR/sequencing analysis targeting the V4 hype

SUBMITTER: Sgroi G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10442169 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature