[Monitoring the activity of Ixodes ricinus ticks and their positivity for selected pathogenic microorganisms in the agglomeration of the city of Brno].

Abstract

Objective: The aim is to present the results of monitoring the activity of Ixodes ricinus ticks and their positivity for dangerous pathogenic microorganisms in the Brno-Pisarky forest park. The monitored pathogens were Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Coxiella burnetii, Erhlichia chaffensis and Francisella tularensis. Additionally, factors potentially influencing tick activity in the location (especially the temperature) were monitored.

Materials and methods: In the location, ticks were caught using the flagging method. Positivity of ticks was determined by polymerase chain reaction followed by gel electrophoresis.

Results: Between March and November 2021, 563 ticks were collected in the location, the vast majority being nymphs (85 %). The positivity rates were 5.6 % for the pathogen Bbsl was and 2.4 % for A. phagocytophilum. C. burnetii, E. chaffensis and F. tularensis were not confirmed in the location.

Conclusion: The location was found to be infested with the pathogens Bbsl and A. phagocytophilum. However, the positivity in Brno-Pisarky is lower compared to other Brno areas.