High prevalence of Neospora caninum antibodies in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in ranches of Corrientes, Chaco and Formosa provinces, Argentina

Abstract

Water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) are important to the economy of several countries including Argentina. N. caninum exposure and isolation have been reported in water buffaloes. The goal of this paper is to describe the prevalence of antibodies against N. caninum in water buffaloes from eight ranches located in the provinces of Corrientes, Chaco and Formosa. Anti-Neospora caninum antibodies were determined by using an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) in sera of 1,024 water buffaloes at a 1:100 dilution. Reproductive parameters were normal having >80% of pregnancy, >75% of calving and >70% of weaning in all farms. Antibody titers were found in 665 (64.9%) buffaloes. All farms presented positive animals. Results indicate a high exposure of water buffaloes to N. caninum in these provinces of the northeastern Argentina. Although more studies should be performed in order to assess the consequences of Neospora-infections in the water buffalo industry, the high prevalence of infected animals should be considered as a risky epidemiological variable.