Seroprevalence of Trypanosoma evansi Infection in Equines of North and North Western States of India.
Authors: Yadav Suresh Chandra, Kumar Prabhat, Khurana Sandip, Kumar Rajender
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Trypanosoma evansi Seroprevalence in Indian Equines Surra, caused by the protozoan parasite *Trypanosoma evansi*, represents a chronic wasting disease of considerable concern in endemic regions, yet systematic epidemiological data for Indian equine populations has remained scarce—hampering evidence-based control strategies. Researchers screened 6,455 serum samples from horses and donkeys across north and north-western India between 2011 and 2015 using indirect ELISA to detect antibodies against *T. evansi*, stratifying results by geographical zone, season, age, and sex. Overall seroprevalence was modest at 5.24% (338 positive cases), though marked geographical variation emerged, with the Gangetic plains of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh showing substantially higher infection rates (9.75%) compared to Rajasthan's western dry zone (2.85%), suggesting environmental and vector-related factors influence disease distribution. Temporal patterns revealed year-round circulation with seasonal peaks during the post-monsoon months (September–November) and troughs in winter, whilst age and sex had no significant protective or predisposing effect. For practitioners in affected regions, these findings underscore the need for targeted surveillance and vector control measures during high-risk seasons, particularly in agriculturally intensive Gangetic zones where the disease burden justifies integrated prevention protocols and enhanced awareness among equine handlers.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Veterinarians in endemic regions (particularly Gangetic plains) should maintain clinical suspicion for surra in wasting equines and use indirect ELISA for serological confirmation
- •Increased disease surveillance and vector control measures are warranted during postmonsoon season when prevalence peaks across all regions
- •Systematic screening programs can identify disease patterns to inform development of regional control and treatment strategies for surra in equine populations
Key Findings
- •T. evansi antibodies detected in 338 of 6455 equine serum samples (5.24% overall seroprevalence) across India during 2011-2015
- •Highest prevalence of 9.75% recorded in Gangetic plains of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh; lowest of 2.85% in western dry region (Rajasthan)
- •Highest prevalence occurred during 2011-2012 (first year of study) with seasonal variation peaking in postmonsoon months (September-November) and lowest in winter (December-February)
- •No significant difference in disease prevalence observed between equine sexes or species