<i>Babesia vulpes</i> and <i>Babesia banethi</i> infections in red foxes: molecular and morphological detection with clinical and cytological findings.

ABSTRACT: Red foxes are widespread carnivorans acting as reservoirs of Babesia vulpes , which is highly prevalent in foxes, yet its clinical impact remains poorly understood. The description of Babesia banethi raised knowledge gaps regarding pathogenicity and life cycle. This study investigated the occurrence of Babesia spp. in red foxes from southern Italy. Overall, 54 red foxes were clinically examined, sampled for hemato-biochemical analyses, and screened for Babesia spp. using microscopy and PCR. Necropsies were performed on 20 animals. Ticks were collected, identified, and dissected for cytological detection of Babesia spp., as well as by PCR. Overall, 46.3 % of foxes tested positive for Babesia spp., with B. vulpes (42.6 %) predominating

SUBMITTER: Carbonara M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12859807 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature