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[Vectors of Borrelia burgdorferi]
Glas. Srpska Akademija Nauka I Umetnosti. Odeljenje Medicinskih Nauka
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Ixodes ricinus ticks in Belgrade are frequently infected with Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria causing Lyme borreliosis. Researchers identified numerous active foci for this tick-borne illness in various urban and mixed environments.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Belgrade experienced a significant tick collection and identification effort between 1990-1992.
- Ixodes ricinus constituted 99.8% of the collected ticks, with Dermacentor marginatus making up 0.2%.
- Borrelia burgdorferi infection rates in ticks ranged from 27.0% to 31.7%.
Purpose:
- To identify tick species prevalent in Belgrade.
- To determine the prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi infection in these ticks.
- To map potential and active foci of Lyme borreliosis in the Belgrade area.
Summary:
- A total of 5,915 ticks were identified, predominantly Ixodes ricinus.
- Higher infection rates of Borrelia burgdorferi were observed in female ticks compared to males, and in nymphs versus larvae.
- Infection levels varied by habitat, being lowest in parks and highest in mixed park-wood areas.
- Out of 28 surveyed locations, 20 were classified as active foci of Lyme borreliosis.
Impact:
- This study provides crucial data for understanding Lyme borreliosis epidemiology in urban settings.
- Identified active foci can guide public health interventions and tick control strategies.
- The findings highlight the significant public health risk posed by Borrelia burgdorferi-infected ticks in Belgrade.