Vectors and vector borne diseases: Morphological and molecular diagnosis, risk assessment, population genetics and control strategies

Abstract

Vector-borne diseases are transmitted through arthropods and new associations between them and pathogens are continually being described. In the present study, authors briefly address their research areas, reporting multiple collaboration studies and major findings achieved by the CIISA's Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases team and its partners over the past few years. Starting with Culicoides, their importance as vectors of animal/human diseases, the description of new species and also species modelling as disease surveillance is discussed. Studies on national lice species in wild birds raise awareness to a so far neglected group, evincing known records and new contributions towards a better knowledge. Tick and tick-borne pathogen studies over the years have contributed to a national portrait of species geographic and seasonal distribution and to pathogen endemic associations, describing most common public and veterinary health threats. In this regard, morphology identification strategies are enounced and molecular markers used considered. Due to a reported rise in prevalence, piroplasms impact is particularly focused as a major concern for cattle production industry sector. A national overview concerning Theileria and Babesia prevalence inferences and diagnosis specificities are reviewed. Ultimately, a national Dirofilaria immitis and Angiostrongylus vasorum epidemiological update is given while diagnosis and treatment options are debated.