Work

Seroprevalence of Neospora caninum in dairy goats from northern South Africa: A preliminary study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Neospora caninum is an intracellular protozoan parasite with a global distribution, known to cause abortions in livestock. This study aimed to determine N. caninum seroprevalence in dairy goats with a history of reproductive failure in South Africa. Blood samples were collected from 131 dairy goats across five farms in three provinces and tested for N. caninum antibodies using the commercial indirect ELISA (IDvet Screen® Neospora caninum ), followed with confirmatory testing with western blot (WB). The ELISA detected antibodies in one goat (1/131) [95 % CI: 0–2.8 %], while no positives were detected by WB. While N. caninum infection and associated abortions do not currently pose a major concern, farmers are encouraged to perform surveillance for potential infections. • Sera from 131 dairy goats across three provinces were tested for N. caninum antibodies using a commercial indirect ELISA, followed by a confirmatory western blot. • The ELISA detected specific antibodies in one goat (1/131), while the western blot showed no positive results (0/131). • This is the first time N. caninum seroprevalence is assessed in dairy goats with a history of reproductive failure in South Africa.

Source: Veterinary Parasitology Regional Studies and Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2025.101213

Authors: Whatmore Munetsi Tagwireyi, Gema Alvarez Garcia, Darshana Morar-Leather, Luis Neves, Peter N. Thompson

Institutions: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pretoria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Eduardo Mondlane University

Language: English

Topic: Toxoplasma gondii Research Studies

Subfield: Parasitology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,970