Transmission of ‘Candidatus Anaplasma camelii’ to mice and rabbits by camel-specific keds, Hippobosca camelina

Anaplasmosis, caused by infection with bacteria of the genus Anaplasma , is an important veterinary and zoonotic disease. Transmission ticks has been characterized but little known about non-tick vectors livestock anaplasmosis. This study investigated presence spp. in camels northern Kenya whether hematophagous camel ked, Hippobosca camelina acts as a vector. Camels ( n = 976) > 10,000 keds were sampled over three-year period species was determined PCR-based assays targeting Anaplasmataceae 16S rRNA gene. infected single ‘Candidatus camelii ’ rates ranging from 63–78% during dry (September 2017), wet (June-July 2018), late seasons (July-August 2019). 10–29% harbored ‘ Ca . camelii’ acquired blood feeding. We that -positive could transmit to mice rabbits via blood-feeding. show competence pathogen transmission subsequent microscopic observation smears PCR. (8–47%) (25%) occurred readily after ked bites. Hence, we demonstrate, for first time, potential H vector key finding provides rationale establishing control programmes improvement human health.