Current Distribution of Selected Vector-borne Diseases in Domestic Dogs From Bucharest, Romania

Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) include various illnesses affecting dogs. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of major CVBDs in domestic dogs in Bucharest, Romania's largest urban centre, which is situated along the Dâmbovița River in the southeastern region.

The present study included 317 dogs presented to a veterinary hospital for routine health examinations or specialised consultations between August 2020 and August 2024. Two rapid serological tests (SNAP 4Dx Plus and SNAP Leishmania) were used to assess infection rates.

The findings revealed an overall seroprevalence of 8.8% for CVBDs, with Dirofilaria immitis exhibiting a prevalence of 12.62%. The seroprevalence of Ehrlichia spp. fluctuated over the years, peaking at 8.33% in 2022, resulting in an overall prevalence of 4.73%. An increase in Ehrlichia spp. seroprevalence during the 4 years was correlated with the presence of Rhipicephalus species in the region. Anaplasma spp. also showed a rising trend, with an overall prevalence of 4.42% and an increase from 2.94% in 2020 to 8.33% in 2024. In contrast, Borrelia burgdorferi exhibited low seroprevalence, and no positive cases for Leishmania spp. were detected.

This study assesses Bucharest's status as an endemic area for ehrlichial diseases and dirofilariosis, highlighting significant public health concerns. Globalisation, tourism and climate change are factors that influence vector biology, and it is crucial to develop a strategic management plan for the prevention and control of vector-borne diseases.