Seroprevalence of Neospora infection in horses and donkeys in Hamedan province, Western Iran

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the seroprevalence of Neospora infection in horses and donkeys in Hamedan province, Western Iran. Materials and Methods: In cross-sectional study, Blood samples (n=220) were collected from 120 horses and 100 donkeys in 2012 year. All sera were screened for Neospora using Neospora modified direct agglutination test (N-MAT). Results: Antibodies to Neospora infection in horses and donkeys were reported in 40.8% and 52%, respectively. There was not significant correlation demonstrated between infection rates in different age groups and genders. Conclusion: The current study is the first report of Neospora infection in donkeys from Iran. Further investigations and designing control strategies is recommended.