Abstract
Background: Babesiosis is a tick-borne disease that mainly affects small mammals and it has been reported in at least five provinces in China. However, the host range and geographical distribution of the parasite in Fujian Province are unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence and genetic characteristics of Babesia in Fujian Province, Southeast China, between 2015 and 2020.Methods: Rodent blood samples were collected from 26 different surveillance sites across Fujian Province. Genomic DNA was extracted to screen for Babesia infection using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, based on 18S rRNA. DNA samples from 316 domestic goats, 85 water buffalo, 56 domestic dogs, and 18 domestic pigs were examined. The prevalence of Babesia was statistically analyzed using the Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using MEGA 5.0 by gene sequence alignment.Results: Babesia infections were found in 3.96% (43/1,087) of rodents and 1.26% (6/475) of other mammals. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that irrigated cropland, shrubs, and forests were risk factors for Babesia microti infections. The infection rates among domestic pigs, dogs, and goats were found to be 5.56%, 1.79%, and 1.27%, respectively, and no infection was found in water buffalo. Sequencing (18S rRNA gene) revealed that rodents were infected with Babesia (sensu lato) while other mammals were infected with Babesia (sensu stricto).Conclusions: The results indicate that there is wide geographical distribution and phylogenetic relationship of Babesia in Southeast China. This study suggests that mammals, especially wild rodents, are the main natural hosts of Babesia in Fujian. Our findings provide a solid foundation for public health officials to develop Babesia prevention and control measures.
Tectonic setting and exhumation history of the Pingtan–Dongshan Metamorphic Belt along the coastal area, Fujian Province, Southeast China
