Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with Neospora caninum infection in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in Sohag, Egypt

Neosporosis is a globally distributed protozoan disease caused by Neospora caninum, which causes significant economic losses due to its abortifacient effects, particularly in the cattle and buffalo industries. In Egypt, numerous studies have investigated this parasite in cattle; however, research on water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) remains limited. This study conducted a cross-sectional survey to determine the seroprevalence of N. caninum-specific antibodies in 342 water buffaloes in Sohag Governorate. Serum samples were collected from buffaloes representing various locations, age groups, sexes, physiological and pathological conditions, as well as other animal- and environment-related factors. A commercially available competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) was used for antibody detection. The overall seroprevalence of N. caninum was found to be 58.8 % (201/342). Several potential risk factors were evaluated, including body weight, reproductive disorders, seasonality, and contact with dogs, but only season (summer) and anestrus had a significant effect on seroprevalence. In conclusion, the high seroprevalence observed in this study suggests a widespread presence of N. caninum infection among water buffaloes in Sohag. These findings highlight the urgent need for implementing more effective control strategies to mitigate the impact of this parasite on the buffalo population in the region.