Assessment of Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors for Anaplasmosis in Camelus dromedarius

Abstract

(1) Background: Anaplasmosis is an infectious disease in camels caused by an obligate intracellular bacterium that is transmitted by ticks. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during 2020 to study the seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. among Camelus dromedarius in three governorates in Egypt and assess the associated risk factors. Serum samples from 365 camels were examined by a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) test. (3) Results: Overall, the seroprevalence of anaplasmosis among camels was 18.6%. Multivariable logistic regression was performed, and it was discovered that tick infestation, application of acaricides, grooming practice and body condition were potential risk factors for Anaplasma spp. infection (odds ratio > 1) in dromedary camels. In contrast, the locality in which the camels lived and their age were not significant effects with regard to the occurrence of anaplasmosis. (4) Conclusions: The current findings suggest that improvement of protective measures to limit the effects of the identified risk factors can help to reduce the spread of anaplasmosis among camels in Egypt.