A study published in Heliyon successfully established the first animal model for Rickettsia helvetica infections in C3H/HeN mice, advancing research on this tick-borne pathogen. Although the infection had a 100% prevalence, classic signs of spotted fever were absent, offering new insights into its pathology. The study highlighted the limited susceptibility of Ixodes ricinus ticks, commonly found in Europe, to R. helvetica. This research sets the stage for future investigations into disease mechanisms, host responses, and vaccine development for tick-borne illnesses.

This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of zoonotic parasites, specifically Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm) and Dirofilaria repens, in dogs and humans within the hyperenzootic region of Thrace, northeastern Greece. The research was carried out within the "One Health" framework and involved collecting 604 blood samples from dogs and 625 serum samples from humans residing in the Thrace region.

New study by Banović et al. has highlighted the complex epidemiology of tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in Serbia and North Macedonia, two countries with diverse ecosystems that support various tick species capable of transmitting TBDs. Conducted in 2022, this observational study focused on human-biting ticks and the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) among individuals from Novi Sad, Serbia, and Skopje, North Macedonia.

Tick-borne diseases, a pressing global health issue, are on the rise due to increased tick populations and expanding habitats influenced by climate change. Predominantly transmitted by Ixodes ticks, these diseases include Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE). Lyme disease is prevalent in North America and Europe, characterized by symptoms like fever, headache, and fatigue. Anaplasmosis, also common in these regions, presents with similar symptoms and can be severe if untreated. TBE, primarily in Europe and Asia, causes neurological complications and has seasonal peaks in spring and summer.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) poses a significant health risk in Croatia, particularly in the northwestern regions. The disease is transmitted by Ixodes ricinus ticks, with cases peaking in spring, summer, and autumn. Since the first case in 1953, regions like Bjelovar, Pakrac, and Varaždin have reported cases. Most patients are aged 40-69, predominantly male, with symptoms ranging from meningitis to encephalitis. Seroprevalence studies reveal widespread exposure among humans and animals. Vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups, but uptake data is insufficient. Ongoing research aims to enhance epidemiological understanding and control strategies.

The chapter on Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) in Serbia provides a detailed history and current status of the disease in the country. TBE was first reported in Serbia in 1972, with subsequent sporadic findings in ticks. Despite the presence of the virus in ticks, no active TBE foci have been established. Diagnostic challenges due to antibody cross-reactivity with West Nile Virus have hindered accurate TBE diagnosis. Recent serosurveys and advancements in diagnostic assays have improved understanding, though no TBE vaccine is licensed in Serbia. Surveillance and case definition protocols vary across regions.

This manuscript examines occurrence of tick paralysis in Cyprus. Tick paralysis, caused by neurotoxins from tick salivary glands, results in a flaccid, ascending paralysis that can be fatal if untreated. The most potent tick is Ixodes holocyclus in Australia, but 73 species worldwide can cause paralysis. In Cyprus, cases are primarily in the Akamas peninsula, with periodic 3- and 7-year cycles. Ixodes gibbosus is identified as the causative tick. Affected animals, especially free-ranging small ruminants, show severe symptoms but recover quickly after tick removal. Prevention includes acaricides and movement restriction during high-risk periods. t

This comprehensive manuscript examines the threat posed by the red-poultry mite, Dermanyssus gallinae, a significant pest in the poultry industry and a potential vector for various pathogens affecting both poultry and humans. It details the mite's biology, host preferences, and its role in transmitting bacterial and viral pathogens, including Salmonella, Coxiella burnetii, Borrelia burgdorferi, and several others. The study employs molecular techniques to identify D. gallinae specimens collected from a household infestation in Serbia, linking them to potential disease transmission. Furthermore, it discusses the clinical manifestations of D. gallinae infestation in humans and underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to manage this emerging threat effectively.

The manuscript investigates the potential connection between ABO blood groups and susceptibility to COVID-19. It begins by discussing the role of blood group antigens in immune response to pathogens. The study analyzes ABO blood group distribution among convalescent COVID-19 plasma (CCP) donors and regular blood donors during the pandemic in Serbia, comparing it with pre-pandemic data. Results indicate that individuals with blood group A are more likely to become CCP donors, while those with blood groups B, O, and AB are less likely. Notably, blood group O individuals seem more resistant to symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. The discussion explores possible mechanisms behind these associations, including the role of blood group antigens and anti-ABO antibodies. The findings suggest implications for public health measures and personalized healthcare strategies. Further research is needed to fully understand these connections.

Climate change and conflicts are making disasters involving animals’ health more common. We studied how the Greek media covered the major flood in Thessaly, September 2023. We looked at how people felt about animal health and disease risks. This study found that crisis plans did not focus enough on animals and on communication. Our research also showed that (i) people rely on each other for health information rather than experts during a crisis, and (ii) media often sensationalize animal deaths. This highlights the need for better crisis management (with the use of social media listening tools) in veterinary education and practices to handle disasters.