Introduction to Babesia microti
Babesiosis is a tick-borne zoonosis that poses significant risks to both humans and animals. Recent research in central and southern Shanxi Province, China, sheds light on the prevalence and genetic diversity of Babesia microti in local rodent populations. This study captured and analyzed rodents, providing crucial insights into the infection rates of this protozoan parasite.
In total, 301 rodents were captured. The study found a 6.64% prevalence of Babesia infection, notably higher in Niviventer confucianus at 16.87% compared to Apodemus agrarius at 3.85%. Central Shanxi exhibited a significantly higher infection rate of 9.74% compared to southern Shanxi’s 0.94%. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that all collected sequences were of the B. microti Kobe type, closely associated with previously recorded sequences.
Genetic Diversity Insights
The study’s genetic analysis revealed 21 haplotypes among the 65 sequences, showcasing diverse patterns based on host and geography. Interestingly, tick-derived sequences displayed greater genetic diversity than those from rodents or humans. The findings suggest that local rodent populations in Shanxi are closely related to sequences from other provinces, hinting at a complex ecological interaction.
This pivotal research can serve as a foundation for developing targeted prevention and control strategies against Babesia microti infections in the region. Source
