Prevalence of Hemoparasites in Rodents and Shrews and their Potential Zoonotic Risk in Arusha Municipal, Tanzania

Abstract

Rodents and shrews are important in public health as reservoirs of ectoparasites and zoonotic hemoparasites, which can threaten livestock and human health. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of hemoparasites in rodents and shrews in Arusha Municipal, Tanzania. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to May 2024, where rodents and shrews were captured using live traps in residential and peridomestic areas. Blood samples were collected and examined for hemoparasites through thick and thin smears. Data were analyzed using SPSS, and logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between prevalence and variables such as species, sex, and habitat. A total of 96 small mammals were captured, comprising 85 rodents and 11 shrews. Anaplasma spp. had the highest prevalence, infecting 24.7% of rodents and 36.4% of shrews, with co-infection of Anaplasma spp. and Theileria spp. detected in 4.7% of rodents and 27.3% of shrews. Babesia spp was detected at infection rate of 2.4% in rodents, and 9.1% in shrews. Logistic regression revealed that the odds of Anaplasma spp. infection were significantly higher in shrews compared to rodents (p = 0.023), and animals from peridomestic areas exhibited a higher prevalence (p = 0.017). The study highlights the high prevalence of hemoparasites in rodents and shrews, particularly in peridomestic areas, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Habitat management, vector control, and public health education are crucial for reducing zoonotic disease transmission. Future research should focus on ecological factors influencing hemoparasite transmission and their potential impacts on human and animal health.