Molecular detection and risk factor analysis of Babesia spp. infection in camels from northern Egypt

Babesia spp. are important tick-borne hemoprotozoan parasites that affect the health and productivity of livestock, including camels. The present study aimed to determine the molecular prevalence of Babesia spp. infection in camels from northern Egypt and to evaluate the associated epidemiological risk factors. A total of 400 blood samples were collected from camels in Kafr El-Sheikh and Qalyubia Governorates, Egypt. Molecular detection of Babesia spp. was performed using PCR targeting the 18 S rRNA gene. Epidemiological data related to sex, age, season, body condition, tick infestation, and acaricide application were analyzed to identify potential risk factors associated with infection. The overall prevalence of Babesia spp. infection was 18%. Male camels showed a significantly higher prevalence (23.85%) compared with females (7.14%). Age was significantly associated with infection, with the highest prevalence observed in camels older than 5 years (38.18%), followed by those aged 2-5 years (11.9%), whereas the lowest prevalence was detected in animals younger than 2 years (6.26%). Seasonal analysis revealed higher infection rates during the warm months (OR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.05-4.15), suggesting the influence of climatic conditions on tick activity and pathogen transmission. Emaciated camels (OR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.01-3.79) were more susceptible to infection than healthy animals, likely due to compromised immunity and concurrent parasitic burdens. Tick infestation (OR = 2.23; 95% CI: 2.06-4.69)and the absence of acaricide application (OR = 2.84; 95% CI: 1.42-5.68) were also significantly associated with increased infection rates, emphasizing the major role of ticks in disease transmission. The findings support the importance of environmental and management-related factors in maintaining Babesia circulation among camel populations. The present study demonstrates that Babesia spp. infection is prevalent among camels in northern Egypt and is significantly associated with age, sex, season, body condition, tick infestation, and acaricide application practices. Effective tick control programs, improved management systems, and regular molecular surveillance are essential for reducing the epidemiological impact of babesiosis in camels. Furthermore, the use of species-specific nested PCR assays is recommended for accurate differentiation of Babesia species in future studies.