Original Article

• Molecular Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of Flea Species in Human and Livestock Residence by Targeting ITS2 Region in East Azerbaijan Province, Iran

  Mostafa Farmani , Adel Spotin , Afsaneh Dolatkhah , Saber Gholizadeh , Teimour Hazratian

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  Abstract

  Background: Fleas are blood-sucking ectoparasites with complete metamorphosis. They belong to the order Si­phonaptera and can infest both humans and animals, causing dermatitis and transmitting vector-borne diseases. De­spite extensive study of their classification and biology, the phylogenetic relationship between fleas in Iran is not fully understood. This research aimed to identify the flea species collected from different parts of East Azerbaijan Province in northwest Iran, using morphological, molecular, and phylogenetic analysis.

  Methods: From October 2019 to October 2020, we collected fleas using various methods such as hand catching for humans, brushing for dogs and cats, sticky traps for rodent burrows, light traps, and dishes with water for sheep and goats. After identifying the flea species using morphological identification keys, we extracted total genomic DNA and amplified it by targeting the ITS2 region. The PCR products were then directly sequenced to investigate the flea species.

  Results: In total, 1929 flea specimens were collected, revealing three genera and four species. The breakdown of the specimens is as follows: Pulex irritans (n=1206; 62.5%), Ctenocephalides canis (n=345; 18%), Ctenocephalides felis felis (n=203; 10.5%), Ctenocephalides felis orientis (n=160; 8%), and Xenopsylla nuttalli (n=15; 1%). Phyloge­netic analysis indicated low to moderate haplotype diversity (Hd: 0−0.524) across five distinct clades: P. irritans, C. canis, C. felis felis, C. felis orientis, and X. nuttalli.

  Conclusion: This study represents the first in-depth analysis in East Azerbaijan Province, highlighting the signifi­cance of considering P. irritans as a major vector when assessing the risk of local disease transmission.

• A Five-Year Trend of Malaria Parasitemia with Coverage and Use of the Major Control Interventions in Itang District, Gambella Region, Western Ethiopia (2017–2021)

  Bolgony Bonker , Oljira Kenea , Damtew Bekele

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  Abstract

  Background: One of the main global public health issues that affect several facets of the population is malaria.  Ethio­pia primarily uses Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) and Long-lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) as lifesaving frontline malaria vector prevention and control interventions. This study intends to assess the trend of malaria prevalence and coverage and utilization of IRS and LLINs in Itang district, western Ethiopia.

  Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on malaria cases reported by Health Centers from 2017 to 2021. Data were gathered between July 02, 2021, and October 30, 2021, using a community-based cross-sectional household sur­vey to evaluate the coverage and utilization of IRS and LLINs. The chi-square test was used to compare the trend of malaria prevalence among sex and age groups. Statistical significance was considered at P< 0.05.

  Results: Among 4,500 patients with suspected cases of malaria, 40% of the cases had microscopically confirmed malar­ia. Plasmodium falciparum was more prevalent than P. vivax in the district. Only 368 (38.25%) people slept under the net yesterday night out of the 962 people who utilized it overall during the study period. 127 (63.5%) households re­ported no insecticide spraying in the past 12 months, while 73 (36.5%) reported their houses were sprayed.

  Conclusion: The number of malaria cases reached its peak in 2019 and hit its lowest point in 2021.  Results show that IRS and LLINs coverage and utilization were poor and warrant community awareness and support by all concerned bodies.