Molecular detection of Ehrlichia chaffeensis in marsh deer (Blastocerus dichotomus) and their parasitic Amblyomma triste ticks in Argentina suggests a local transmission cycle.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Since the first finding of Ehrlichia chaffeensis in the Argentinian marsh deer populations in 2018, we have conducted ongoing surveillance efforts to better understand the ecological and epidemiological dynamics of this zoonotic tick-borne pathogen in the region.

Methods

Over a period of 7 years (2018-2024) we analyzed blood and tissue samples from 40 marsh deer (Blastocerus dichotomus) and 13 parasitic Amblyomma triste ticks in the Paraná River Delta, Argentina.

Results

We identified E. chaffeensis DNA in two deer blood samples and in the salivary glands of three A. triste ticks parasitizing one of those deer. The approach used for E. chaffeensis detection in the tick sample ensured that the identified DNA came from an active tick infection, not residual h

SUBMITTER: Guillemi EC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12866569 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature