Prevalence and predictors of vector-borne pathogens in Dutch roe deer

Background: The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of nine vector-borne pathogens or pathogen genera in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) in the Netherlands, and to identify which host variables predict vector-borne pathogen presence in roe deer. The host variables examined were the four host factors ‘age category’, ‘sex’, ‘nutritional condition’ and ‘health status’, as well as ‘roe deer density’. Methods: From December 2009 to September 2010, blood samples of 461 roe deer were collected and analysed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of genetic material... Mehr ...