Serological investigation of vector-borne pathogens in stray dogs of Pakistan

Background Dogs serve a variety of tasks in Pakistani society. Beside pet dogs, significant populations of dogs exist as stray dogs. These dogs host various diseases e.g. brucellosis, leptospirosis, rabies as well as different vector-borne infections. The purpose of this study was to investigate important vector-borne pathogens in rural dogs.

Material and methods In total, 156 stray dog sera collected from Faisalabad (n=76) and Bahawalpur (n=80) were screened for the presence of antibodies against Ehrlichia (E.) canis, Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp. and Leishmania spp. by IFAT and for Dirofilaria (D.) immitis antigen by ELISA.

Results Sera of 61 (39.1%) dogs were positive for at least one pathogen, whereas 29 (18.5%) were positive for two or more pathogens. Overall, 28.2% were seropositive for antibodies against E. canis, 19.2% for Anaplasma spp., 12.2% for Babesia spp., and 0.64% for Leishmania spp. whereas 4.5% were positive for D. immitis antigen.

Conclusions The dogs showed a noticeable seropositivity for E. canis, Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., and D. immitis. However, there might be cross-reactions between E. canis and Anaplasma spp. Various vector species, including Rhipicephalus, Ixodes, Phlebotomus and mosquitoes, are endemic to the sampling areas. The human population should be aware of the potential role of these dogs and the vectors in transmission of various pathogens. Correct use of vector repellents can prevent pathogen transmission.

Publication History

Article published online:
08 March 2022