First Detection of Bartonella clarridgeiae and Rickettsia felis in Cat Fleas in the Netherlands
Author Information
Author(s): Tijsse-Klasen Ellen, Fonville Manoj, Gassner Fedor, Nijhof Ard M, Hovius Emil KE, Jongejan Frans, Takken Willem, Reimerink Johan R, Overgaauw Paul AM, Sprong Hein
Primary Institution: National Institute for Public Health and Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
Are Bartonella species present in questing Ixodes ricinus ticks in the Netherlands and do they pose a risk to public health?
Conclusion
The risk of acquiring Cat Scratch Disease or a related bartonellosis from questing ticks in the Netherlands is negligible.
Supporting Evidence
- Bartonella clarridgeiae and Rickettsia felis were detected for the first time in Dutch cat fleas.
- B. henselae was found in cat fleas and B. schoenbuchensis in ticks and keds feeding on deer.
- None of the microorganisms were found in 1719 questing Ixodes ricinus ticks.
- The gltA gene from questing ticks was similar to an uncultured Bartonella-related species found in other hard tick species.
Takeaway
Ticks in the Netherlands are not likely to spread Cat Scratch Disease, but fleas might carry germs that can make people sick.
Methodology
Molecular detection and identification of Bartonella and Rickettsia species in ectoparasites using PCR.
Limitations
The study did not find Bartonella species in questing ticks, which contradicts previous findings.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% exact binomial confidence interval
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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