Wild canids as hosts for ticks and tick-borne zoonotic pathogens in Serbia
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Abstract
Wild canids are recognized as important reservoir hosts for several vector-borne
pathogens and are a good sentinel species for epidemiological surveillance. Identifying
the reservoir hosts for particular zoonotic pathogens in a specific area enables the
implementation of adequate measures in order to prevent the occurrence of zoonotic
diseases in humans and domestic animals. The present review aims to summarize the
role of wild canids in the epidemiology of tick-borne zoonoses in Serbia based on
previously published papers and to discuss the available data from an epidemiological
point of view. The results of previously published studies indicate that wild canids
are potential reservoir hosts for several zoonotic tick-borne pathogens in Serbia, and
hosts for several tick species which are proven competent vectors. Based on molecular
studies conducted so far, the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, was confirmed in
jackals while the presence of Candidatus Neoehrlichia micurensis (FU98), Borrelia burgdorferi
sensu stricto, Borrelia garinii, and Borrelia lusitaniae was proven by PCR in analyzed red
foxes. There is a need for continuous epidemiological monitoring of diseases caused
by pathogens previously confirmed in wild canids. Also, further research is needed to
reveal the role of other wild and domestic animals in the epidemiology of tick-borne
zoonoses in Serbia.
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