Mapping Infected Ticks on Martha's Vineyard
Author Information
Author(s): Heidi K. Goethert, Sam R. Telford III
Primary Institution: Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University
Hypothesis
We sought to identify a natural focus of transmission of the agent of tularemia by mapping the distribution of PCR-positive ticks.
Conclusion
We have identified a microfocus where the agent of tularemia stably perpetuates and where genetic diversity is generated.
Supporting Evidence
- Ticks collected from the identified cluster were 3.3 times more likely to test positive for F. tularensis.
- The majority of PCR-positive ticks came from a small area of the study site.
- VNTR analysis revealed 13 different haplotypes of F. tularensis in the ticks.
Takeaway
Researchers found a small area on Martha's Vineyard where infected ticks live, helping us understand how tularemia spreads.
Methodology
Ticks were collected from 85 waypoints over four years and tested for F. tularensis DNA using PCR.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific geographic area and may not represent broader patterns of tularemia transmission.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.001
Confidence Interval
[95% CI]
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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