Evaluation of haemoparasite and Sarcocystis infections in Australian wild deer

Wild animals are natural reservoir hosts for a variety of pathogens that can be transmitted to other wildlife, livestock, domestic animals, and humans. deer (family Cervidae) in Europe, Asia, North South America have been reported infected with gastrointestinal vector-borne parasites. In Australia, wild populations expanded considerably recent years, yet there is little information regarding which present whether these pose biosecurity threats humans, or animals. To address this knowledge gap, PCR-based screening five parasitic genera was conducted blood samples (n = 243) sourced from chital (Axis axis), fallow (Dama dama), rusa (Rusa timorensis) sambar unicolor) sampled eastern Australia. These were tested the presence DNA Plasmodium spp., Trypanosoma Babesia Theileria spp. Sarcocystis Further, antibodies against bovis investigated serum 105) by immunofluorescence. study, neither parasite nor detected any investigated. results indicate not currently host reservoirs Plasmodium, Trypanosoma, Babesia, parasites We conclude do play significant role transmission This survey represents first large-scale molecular study its type Australian provides important baseline about infection status The expanding throughout Australia warrant similar surveys parts country surveillance efforts continually assess level threat could livestock