Molecular detection of vector-borne and hemotropic pathogens in raccoons (<i>Procyon lotor</i>) from a tropical ecotourism area in Costa Rica.

ABSTRACT: Interactions between wildlife, domestic animals, and humans in ecotourism settings could facilitate the circulation of pathogens with zoonotic potential. Raccoons (Procyon lotor), due to their synanthropic behavior and adaptability, may serve as hosts for several infectious agents at these interfaces. This study aimed to investigate the presence of vector-borne and hemotropic pathogens in free-ranging raccoons inhabiting Manuel Antonio National Park (MANP) and its surrounding communities, a major tourist destination in Costa Rica. Between 2021 and 2022, nineteen raccoons were captured using Tomahawk traps, anesthetized, clinically examined, and sampled for hematological and molecular analyses. DNA extracted from blood was screened using real-time and conventional PCR assays targetin

SUBMITTER: Calderon-Bailey J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12809098 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature