Seroprevalence and associated risk factors for Trypanosoma evansi infection in equine in North of Egypt

Abstract

This study determined the seroprevalence of Trypanosoma evansi infection and its associated risk factors in 200 equines across four Egyptian governorates based on CATT/T. evansi. Serological testing revealed T. evansi antibodies in 34.5% of the examined animals, exhibiting notable discrepancies among different governorates. Dakahlia exhibited the highest seroprevalence at 42.4%, while the lowest seroprevalence rate (12.5%) was reported in Gharbia. No significant differences were observed in seroprevalence among age groups or equine species. The multivariate regression analysis model identified pivotal risk factors, wherein the presence of flies increasing infection odds threefold and animals lacking routine insecticide treatment having four times higher odds of infection. Equines in poor health condition displayed double the odds of infection. Surprisingly, a history of venereal disease increased the odds of T. evansi infection. Notably, there were no substantial differences in infection rates based on the disposal of used syringes or prior mange history. These findings provide essential insights into the transmission patterns of T. evansi. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of these identified risk factors is crucial for developing effective methods to reduce the prevalence of T. evansi in populations of equids.