Detection of Bartonella spp. in red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) and their ectoparasites in Lithuania

Abstract

Bartonella are vector-borne gram-negative bacteria causing blood-borne infections. Small mammals are reservoir hosts of Bartonella spp. and their ectoparasites such as fleas, ticks, sand flies, lice and mites are potential vectors. Rodents are one of the most important reservoirs for Bartonella pathogens. Bartonella washoensis was found in squirrels as the main reservoir and was isolated from human in the USA. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Bartonella infections in red squirrels and their ectoparasites using molecular tools in Lithuania. DNA from red squirrels was extracted by using a genomic DNA purification kit, according to the manufacturer's instructions. DNA from fleas and ticks was extracted by using 2.5% ammonium hydroxide. Bartonella DNA in samples was detected using a nested-PCR of the ITS region. Positive PCR products were selected for DNA sequencing. A total of 39 red squirrels victims of road traffic were found. Squirrels were found to be infested with Ixodes ricinus ticks (191) and Ceratophyllus sciurorum fleas (36). Bartonella spp. DNA was detected in 15 (38.5%) samples of squirrels, 2 (1.0%) sample of ticks and 20 (55.5%) samples of fleas. The ITS region sequences showed that Bartonella washoensis were detected in squirrels and their ectoparasites. The results of this study suggest that Ceratophyllus sciurorum fleas may be substantial vector for transmitting of Bartonella washoensis in red squirrels in Lithuania.