Epidemiology and molecular detection of Anaplasma spp. in goats from Chattogram district, Bangladesh

OBJECTIVES: Anaplasmosis is an economically important disease affecting cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat etc. The study was conducted to determine the prevalence, potential risk factors and molecular identification of circulating Anaplasma spp. in goats in Chattogram district, Bangladesh. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Four hundred blood samples were collected from goats of different ages, breeds, sex, coat color and body condition. These goats were selected based on some inclusion criteria through the period of July 2017 to June 2018. Samples were examined microscopically (Giemsa staining method) followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing to identify of Anaplasma spp. RESULTS: The overall prevalences were estimated 5.75% (23/400) and 15.75% (63/400) by microscopy and PCR, respectively. Anaplasma ovis (A. ovis) and Anaplasma marginale (A. marginale) were identified with the prevalence of 14.75% (59/400) and 1.0% (4/400), respectively through PCR. Among different risk factors, jamnapari breed (p = 0.027), no use of acaricide (p = 0.025) and presence of tick (p < 0.01) were found to be significantly associated with anaplasmosis. Sequence analysis of msp4 gene revealed that, Anaplasma spp. detected in the present study were highly similar with those of China, Venezuela, Mongolia, Spain, Tunisia, Cyprus, Italy, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, Japan and Columbia. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, strategic use of acaricide can control tick that ultimately will control the anaplasmosis in goats. Besides, rearing local goats in compare to cross and exotic breed are also recommended for the farmer to prevent the disease.