Molecular assessment of Coxiella burnetii in horses in Northwestern Iran.

This research investigates the presence of Q Fever causing bacteria, Coxiella burnetii, in horses in northwestern Iran, with only a single horse out of 160 sampled found to be a carrier of the bacterium.

Objective of the Study

• The primary goal of the study was to examine the presence and prevalence of a bacteria, Coxiella burnetii, in the horse population of the West Azerbaijan and Ardabil provinces of northwestern Iran. Coxiella burnetii is the bacterium responsible for Q Fever, a disease known to affect both humans and various animal species.

Method of Research

• The research team obtained samples from 140 female (mares) and 20 male (stallions) healthy horses in these provinces.
• Swabbing techniques were used to collect specimens for the study.
• The team used a quantitative PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) assay technique to analyze the DNA obtained from the samples. This particular technique identifies and measures the IS1111 element of the bacterium, indicating its presence.

Research Findings

• The results of the DNA analysis showed that only 0.625% of the samples were positive for Coxiella burnetii.
• Only a single female horse from Ardabil was found to be a carrier of the bacterium.

Interpretation and Implications

• Despite the low positive case, the study’s findings suggest the possibility of horses being silent carriers of Coxiella burnetii. They might not show any visible clinical symptoms of Q fever but can still harbor the bacterium.
• This scenario has potential implications for the transmission of Q Fever as horses can contribute to its spread, possibly to humans and other animals.
• The study underscores the need to consider horses in preventive and control measures for Q fever in the regions studied.