Temporal and spatial variation inAnaplasma phagocytophiluminfection in Swedish moose (Alces alces)

Abstract

SUMMARYThe occurrence ofAnaplasma phagocytophilumwas investigated in spleen and serum samples from Swedish moose (Alces alces) in southern Sweden (island and mainland). Samples were analysed for presence ofA. phagocytophilumDNA by real-time PCR (n = 263), and forAnaplasmaantibodies with ELISA serology (n = 234). All serum samples had antibodies againstA. phagocytophilum. The mean DNA-based prevalence was 26·3%, and significant (P < 0·01) temporal, and spatial variation was found. Island moose had significantly (P < 0·001) higher prevalence ofA. phagocytophilumDNA than moose from the mainland areas. Two samples were sequenced to determine genetic variation in the 16S rRNA andgroESLgenes. Genetic sequence similarity with the human granulocytic anaplasmosis agent, equine granulocytic ehrlichiosis agent, and different wildlife-associatedA. phagocytophilumvariants were observed in the 16S rRNA andgroESLgenes. Our study shows that moose are exposed toA. phagocytophilumin Sweden, and represent a potential wildlife reservoir of the pathogen.