First Report of Canine Babesiosis in Portugal
Author Information
Author(s): Paula Brilhante Simões, Luís Cardoso, Manuela Araújo, Yael Yisaschar-Mekuzas, Gad Baneth
Primary Institution: Inno - Serviços Especializados em Veterinária, Braga, Portugal
Hypothesis
Canine babesiosis caused by Babesia microti-like piroplasm can be transmitted vertically or through ticks.
Conclusion
This study confirms the first cases of canine babesiosis caused by the B. microti-like piroplasm in Portugal, indicating possible vertical transmission or local tick infection.
Supporting Evidence
- Two of the three dogs showed parasitemia with small piroplasms detected by microscopy.
- All three dogs tested positive for Babesia microti-like piroplasm using PCR.
- The study indicates that the infection could have been transmitted to the pup either vertically or through ticks.
Takeaway
Three dogs in Portugal got sick from a tiny bug that can be passed from mom to baby or through ticks, showing that this bug is now in Portugal.
Methodology
Blood samples from three German shepherd dogs were tested for babesial infection using microscopy and PCR.
Limitations
The study is limited by the small sample size and the lack of information on tick species involved.
Participant Demographics
Three German shepherd dogs: a 4-year-old female, a 1-year-old male, and a 2-month-old female.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website