An ecological and epidemiological single‐season survey of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia positive ticks in Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe

A significant portion of ticks in Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe, were found to be positive for Anaplasma and Ehrlichia bacteria, with nearly 30% of screened ticks testing positive. This study highlights a substantial risk of tick-borne diseases, affecting both wildlife and domesticated animals, thereby presenting a One Health concern for the region. Researchers collected ticks from various hosts and used PCR screening to identify pathogen presence, revealing that certain tick species and hosts had higher odds of carrying these pathogens. The findings suggest complex interactions among ticks, hosts, and pathogens, emphasizing the need for continued surveillance and research in African ecosystems.

Day, C. A., Butler, R. A., Durick, H. E., Chandler, J. G., Paulsen, D. J., Mordoh, S. L., Foggin, C., Parry, R., Moyo, I., Russo, L., Kennedy, M. A., & Trout Fryxell, R. T. (2023). An ecological and epidemiological single‐season survey of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia positive ticks in Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe. Medical and Veterinary Entomology, 37(2), 195–208. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/mve.12640