Seroprevalence of Trypanosoma evansi Infection in Equines of North and North Western States of India.

The study focuses on the disease ‘surra’, caused by Trypanosoma evansi, in equines across different regions of India, particularly in the northern and north-western states. It aims to provide epidemiological information on the disease prevalence in order to facilitate the development of control and treatment strategies.

Research Overview

The researchers collected a comprehensive batch of 6455 serum samples from equines in different regions of the country over the span of four years (2011-2015). They tested these samples for T. evansi antibodies using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a common method employed to detect signs of infection in the body.

Findings

• The research showed that out of the total samples, 338 (5.24%) were positive for T. evansi antibodies. This indicates that about 5.24% of the equines sampled were affected by surra, highlighting the prevalence of the disease.
• The highest prevalence of the disease (9.75%) was observed in the Gangetic plains of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. In contrast, the western dry region, Rajasthan, displayed the lowest prevalence rate of 2.85%.
• Analysis of the results over the course of the four years showed that the highest prevalence rate was witnessed in 2011-2012. This could suggest possible changes in factors affecting the disease’s propagation over time.

Disease Pattern

• The research also revealed the disease to have been prevalent throughout all the seasons, with sporadic outbreaks among equines. Nonetheless, the postmonsoon season (September to November) recorded the highest prevalence, while winter (December to February) registered the lowest.
• Lastly, the research found no significant difference in the prevalence of the disease according to sex or species of the equines.

Implications

The study serves as an essential resource in the ongoing fight against surra. With information on the disease’s pattern and prevalence in India’s varying agro-climatic zones, it could help inform and direct the development of effective control and treatment strategies.