Cross-infectivity of Theileria annulata and Theileria lestoquardi between cattle and sheep in the field in Sudan

Objective: Typically, animal owners in Sudan raise cattle and sheep together or utilize the same grazing land. Thus, Theileria annulata and Theileria lestoquardi can be transmitted between sheep and cattle. This study evaluated the field cross-infectivity of T. annulata and T. lestoquardi in sheep and cattle, respectively, and the antigenic cross-reactivity between these species. Materials and Methods: A total of 80 blood samples and 150 serum samples were collected from closely raised sheep and cattle. The samples were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Results: The PCR analysis revealed that 7.5% of the sheep were only infected with T. annulata, and there was no evidence of mixed infection in these samples. None of the examined cattle tested positive for T. lestoquardi by PCR. The IFAT analysis revealed that T. lestoquardi and T. annulata antigens were detected in 28% and 37.3% of 75 sheep sera, respectively. In addition, the IFAT revealed that 0% and 17.3% of 75 bovine sera were positive for T. lestoquardi and T. annulata antigens, respectively. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that T. annulata and T. lestoquardi differ significantly in their ability to infect sheep and cattle. While sheep can become infected with T. annulata and exhibit theileriosis symptoms, T. lestoquardi cannot infect cattle. Additionally, sheep can develop immunity to both species, whereas cattle only develop immunity to T. annulata. [Vet. Res. Notes 2022; 2(5.000): 43-47]

Abstract licence: CC BY

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