Involvement of Birds of Prey in the Epidemiologyof the Lyme Disease Agent Borrelia Burgdorferi:An Update

摘要

Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease, is the most important zoonosis-pathogen in the Northern Hemisphere.1 Similar to small mammals, birds — primarily Passeriformes but also sea birds - play an important role in the transmission,distribution and maintenance of this disease.2 Previous studies on birds have focused mainly on the detection of B. burgdorferi-positive ticks. The present update analyzes the presence of B. burgdorferi antibodies in sera from free-living birds of preyin Eastern Westphalia, Germany. Of 29 samples analyzed, 4 samples were positive: 2 in eagle owls (Bubo bubo) and 2 in common buzzards (Buteo buteo) by using a modified indirect immunofluorescent test (IFT). The results show that birds of prey are susceptible to B. burgdorferi and react immunologically to an infection. In addition, a peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) was presented with a swollen intertarsal joint, diarrhea and a reduced general condition. Radiographs were inconspicuous. Antibacterial treatment against the bacterium Escherichia coli found in the intestine and joint did not lead to success. A serologic testing for B. burgdorferi was positive. The bird recovered well after therapy against borreliosis similar to humans and mammals. In the future, it should be taken into account that birds of prey can be vectors for B. burgdorferi.