Detection of bovine ehrlichiosis in the Philippines by PCR.

摘要

Two hundred forty six bovine blood samples from 83% Quirino Province, Philippines were analyzed by blood parasite examination (BPE) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Ehrlichia infected animals were identified based on the appearance of ~492-498 bp molecular band sizes. A total molecular parasite prevalence of 14.22% was obtained after PCR whereas BPE yielded negative results. The highest and lowest parasite prevalences occurred in Diffun (18.18%) and Saguday (7.14%) respectively. A higher number of positive samples came from female cattle and ages <1 year. Statistical analysis revealed that there was no correlation between the different parameters and positive detection of Ehrlichia in cattle. This is apparently the first molecular evidence for Ehrlichia spp. infection in cattle in the Philippines.