Güneş, Turabi Cumhuriyet University - Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksek Okulu, Turkey , Poyraz, Ömer Cumhuriyet Üniversitesi - Tıp Fakültesi - Mikrobiyoloji ve Klinik Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Turkey , Babacan, Adem Bartın Üniversitesi - İktisadi ve İdari Bilimler Fakültesi - İşletme Bölümü, Turkey

The seroepidemiologic survey of Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia conorii in clinically healthy dogs from Sinop region

33112

Aim. The aim of the present study was to determine seroprevalence of Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia conorii in dogs living in the villages of Sinop and to establish co-seroprevalance rate between both infection agents. Methods. In August 2007, blood samples were obtained from 93 dogs which seemed clinically healthy in Sinop. IgG antibodies to E. canis and R. conorii were investigated in dogs by ELISA. Results. E. canis and R. conorii antibodies were determined in 17 (18.28%) and 68 (73.12%) of 93 dogs, respectively. Only E. canis antibodies in 1 (1.08%) of 93 dogs and only R. conorii antibodies in 52 (55.91%) of them were determined. And also, the co-seroprevalance between E. canis and R. conorii were determined in 16 (17.20%) of them. In the dog group in which one of R. conorii or E. canis was seropositive, the probability of being seropositive of other infection agent was high (Fisher s exact test, p = 0.035). Conclusion. Dogs living in Sinop and somewhere with similar climate are at risk in terms of E. canis and R. conori infections. In this respect, tick borne infections should be considered in the solution of dog’s health problems. In addition, because of the friendly relationship between dogs and humans, antibody positivities against E. canis and R. conori in dogs can indicate that these infections can be seen in humans, too.

17

Canine Ehrlichiosis , Canine ricketsiosis , Dog , Ehrlichia canis , Rickettsia conorii

Cumhuriyet Medical Journal

22