Improving Molecular Detection of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Citizen-Collected Ticks

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Molecular Diagnostics
• Public Health Surveillance

Background:

• Tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) pose a significant public health risk.
• Accurate and efficient identification of TBPs in ticks is crucial for surveillance and prevention.
• Citizen science initiatives can augment traditional tick collection methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate two CE-IVD multiplex real-time PCR (rt-PCR) assays for identifying human-relevant TBPs in ticks.
• To describe tick species distribution, developmental stages, and seasonal TBP circulation using aggregated data.
• To assess the utility of citizen science for tick collection in TBP surveillance.

Main Methods:

• 116 ticks collected via citizen science in northeastern Italy were analyzed using two CE-IVD multiplex rt-PCR kits.
• Pathogen detection was confirmed using in-house PCR methods and species-level identification where applicable.
• Tick species, developmental stages, and pathogen co-infections were documented.

Main Results:

• 33.6% of ticks tested positive for at least one TBP; 6.9% had co-infections.
• Kit B demonstrated higher detection rates for Borrelia spp. and Rickettsia spp.
• Ixodes ricinus nymphs were the most common tick, with peak TBP activity in late spring/early summer.

Conclusions:

• Multiplex rt-PCR kits are effective for TBP screening in citizen-science-collected ticks.
• Citizen science combined with molecular diagnostics provides a valuable tool for regional tick and TBP surveillance.
• The study highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring for tick-borne diseases in northeastern Italy.