Molecular and Epidemiological Study of Babesia Bovis Infection in Cattle and Its Haematological Effects in Anbar Province, Iraq

Background: Babesia bovis is a major tick-borne protozoan parasite that causes anaemia, fever, and productivity losses in cattle Despite its importance, epidemiological and haematological data from Iraq remain limited. Objective: To determine the epidemiological status of B. bovis in Anbar Province, compare the efficiency of diagnostic techniques, and assess associated haematological changes Methodology: From January to December 2024, Three hundred and forty-four blood samples were drawn from cattle of both sexes and various ages across 22 farms in Ramadi, Fallujah, Saqlawiyah, Hit, Haditha, and Al-Qaim Samples were examined by Giemsa-stained smears, competitive ELISA, and PCR targeting the SBP-4 gene Haematological parameters (RBC, Hb, PCV, WBC) were measured using an automated analyser Associations with sex, age, and season were analysed using χ² and t-tests (p < 0.05) Results: PCR showed an overall prevalence of 41.6%. Infection was higher in females than in males (47.0% vs. 34.0%) Prevalence increased with age, reaching 47.5% in cattle aged 10–12 years Seasonal variation was clear, with the lowest rate in winter (17.3%) and the highest in summer (62.6%) Infected animals showed decreased RBC, Hb, and PCV, alongside elevated WBC counts. Conclusion: B. bovis is widespread in Anbar cattle, showing distinct age- and season-related patterns PCR was the most sensitive diagnostic method, supporting its use in surveillance and control programmes for bovine babesiosis in Iraq