Investigation of Babesia species using molecular methods

Aims: To determine the presence of Babesia species in ticks in the Ankara region and neighboring provinces; the aim of this study was to detect and distribute Babesia species using molecular methods in ticks collected from nature and hosts. Methods: Babesia was detected at the species level by conventional PCR method by DNA extraction of 191 tick samples collected from Ankara and neighboring provinces, which applied to the Parasitology National Reference Laboratory of the Ministry of Health, General Directorate of Public Health, between 2020-2021. Results: A total of 191 tick samples were examined in the study, and as a result of the conventional PCR study, 4 Babesia agents were found positive, 1 of them was Babesia bigemina (B. bigemina), 2 were Babesia ovis, 1 was Babesia spp. were determined. Conclusion: In tick-borne diseases such as Babesiosis; it should not be forgotten that ticks continue to focus some infections in nature and serve as reservoirs for disease agents in nature, and the necessary strategies for tick control should be followed.