Mixed tick-borne infections: Babesia and Theileria in migratory bakarwal sheep in Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

An outbreak of tick-borne piroplasmosis, caused by Babesia and Theileria species, affected Bakerwal sheep in Jammu and Kashmir, India, caused over 40 deaths (8.89% mortality rate) among Bakarwal sheep. Clinical signs included fever, haemoglobinuria, and haematochezia. Microscopic examination and molecular analysis confirmed mixed infections. Interestingly, despite identical exposure conditions, Kagani goats in the same flock remained unaffected, suggesting differential host susceptibility between sheep and goats. Serum biochemical analysis revealed significant abnormalities, including hypoproteinemia and hypocalcemia, with concurrent infestations of strongyles, Nematodirus, and coccidia. The study underscores the challenges of managing tick-borne diseases in migratory sheep, emphasizing the need for multifaceted treatment approaches