[Seroprevalence of babesiosis in cattle in Sivas]

The purpose of this study was the investigation of the seroprevalence of babesiosis in cattle in the Sivas region. Serum samples were collected from a total of 240 cattle in the Sivas region. Serum antibodies against Babesia bigemina and Babesia bovis for cattle were investigated by the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT). In addition, blood smears taken from the ear veins of cattle were prepared and examined under microscope. Two hundred and forty cattle from 25 different localities were examined during the period from March-June 2008. During the microscopic examination of 240 blood smears, Babesia sp. were detected in 14 (5.83%) cattle in Sivas region. These cattle also had an antibody reaction to Babesia bigemina or Babesia bovis. Anti-Babesia IgG antibodies were obtained in 32 (13.3%), of 240 cattle for Babesia bovis and in 45 (37.5%), of 120 cattle for Babesia bigemina in Sivas region. Babesiosis is a common disease in cattle in Sivas province.