Serological and molecular screening for zoonotic pathogens among wild hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) from urban areas of Poland.

Abstract

Introduction: Wild European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) can carry various pathogens potentially harmful to humans. This study was conducted to determine the occurrence of selected zoonotic pathogens in European hedgehogs from urban areas of central-western Poland.

Material and methods: Sixty-nine samples (43 of sera and 26 spleens) were collected from 54 hedgehogs brought to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Poznań, Poland, between June 2020 and September 2023. Antibodies against Coxiella burnetii, hepatitis E virus genotype 3, Toxoplasma gondii and Trichinella spp. in serum samples were determined using commercial ELISA tests. A PCR was used to evaluate the prevalence of Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Borrelia spp., Rickettsia spp. and Leptospira spp. genetic material in spleens.

Results: The genetic material of Anaplasma phagocytophilum was found in 18 out of 26 spleens (69.23%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 50.01-83.50), and the genetic material of Rickettsia helvetica in 4 out of these 26 (15.38 %; 95% CI: 6.15-33.53). All Rickettsia-positive spleens were also positive for Anaplasma spp. None of the other pathogens or antibodies against them were detected.

Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of some zoonotic pathogens in urban hedgehog populations and their potential impact on public health and urban biodiversity.