Soroprevalência de neospora caninum em rebanhos bovinos e bubalinos no Estado do Amapá

Abstract

Neosporosis is one of the most important reproductive diseases affecting ruminant production systems worldwide, widely associated with abortions and substantial economic losses. The protozoan Neospora caninum has canids as its definitive hosts and a variety of mammals and birds as intermediate hosts, among which the domestic buffalo stands out due to its high seroprevalence, particularly in regions where it is raised alongside other species. Considering the productive relevance of the state of Amapá and the scarcity of regional studies, this research aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of N. caninum in dairy cattle and buffalo herds located on three farms in the municipalities of Porto Grande, Ferreira Gomes, and Laranjal do Jari. A total of 27 blood samples were collected from cattle and water buffalo aged 3 to 8 years, some with a history of abortion. Samples were processed using the DOT-ELISA method with the ImmunoComb® kit (Biogal®). The study confirmed the presence of anti-N. caninum antibodies in all evaluated herds, reinforcing the circulation of the parasite in the region and highlighting the importance of serological monitoring as an essential tool for sanitary management and mitigation of reproductive losses. The findings contribute pioneering epidemiological data on neosporosis in the state of Amapá and provide a foundation for future studies addressing the disease’s impact and serological surveillance in local production systems.