Epidemiological Survey of Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina Infections of Cattle in Philippines

Abstract

A total of 250 blood samples were collected from clinically healthy cattle in five provinces of Philippines. DNA was extracted from the samples and analyzed by nested PCR assays for an epidemiological survey of Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina infections. Out of the 250 samples, 27 (10.8%) and 16 (6.4%) were positive for B. bovis infection and B. bigemina infection, respectively. Mixed infections were detected in a total of 4 samples (1.6%). Our data provide baseline information regarding the epidemiology of B. bovis and B. bigemina infections in cattle in Philippines, which can be utilized in developing proper strategies for disease control and management.