Bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis in Corrientes, Argentina: a 20-year study (2003–2023)
Bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis, caused by Babesia spp. and Anaplasma marginale, respectively, are vector-borne diseases that significantly impact livestock production worldwide. These diseases, known as the ‘Bovine Tick Fever Complex’ (BTFC), are transmitted by the tick Rhipicephalus microplus,...
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| Autores principales: | , , , , |
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| Formato: | Artículo revista |
| Lenguaje: | Español |
| Publicado: |
Universidad Nacional del Nordeste
2025
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| Acceso en línea: | https://revistas.unne.edu.ar/index.php/vet/article/view/8086 |
| Aporte de: |
| Sumario: | Bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis, caused by Babesia spp. and Anaplasma marginale, respectively, are vector-borne diseases that significantly impact livestock production worldwide. These diseases, known as the ‘Bovine Tick Fever Complex’ (BTFC), are transmitted by the tick Rhipicephalus microplus, hematophagous insects such as Tabanus spp., or through iatrogenic practices. Despite the availability of vaccines and acaricides, the BTFC remain a significant challenge in Argentina due to insufficient epidemiological monitoring, vector resistance to treatments, and variable management practices. This study analyzed 20 years (2003–2023) of data from the Animal Health Diagnostic Service of INTA EEA Mercedes, focusing on outbreaks in the central-southern region of Corrientes Province. Diagnostic methods included microscopic evaluation of blood and tissue smears, hematocrit determination, and clinical sign assessment. A total of 1,626 bovine samples from 813 establishments were examined, confirming 826 cases of bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis: 52.43% caused by A. marginale, 40.43% by B. bovis, and 7.14% by B. bigemina. Most outbreaks occurred during summer and autumn, peaking in March and April. Climatic conditions, particularly high humidity and temperatures above 30°C, were associated with increased vector activity and higher outbreak frequency. This study underscores the complex interplay of environmental, biological, and management factors influencing the occurrence of bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis outbreaks. The findings emphasize the need for integrated management strategies that consider climatic trends, sustainable acaricide use, and farmer education to mitigate the impact of these diseases on livestock production. |
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