Molecular detection of Coxiella burnetii in ticks from livestock in Kashmir: first evidence and molecular insights

BACKGROUND: Coxiella burnetii is a globally distributed zoonotic pathogen, but its presence in ticks from Kashmir has not been previously documented. METHODS: This study investigated the prevalence, seasonal trends, and phylogenetic characteristics of C. burnetii in ticks collected from domesticated ruminants across eight districts of Kashmir. A total of 1800 ticks were harvested from 4965 cattle, sheep, and goats. Ticks were identified morphologically and subjected to PCR targeting the IS1111 insertion sequence. Positive amplicons were sequenced and analysed phylogenetically. RESULTS: The tick infestation rate was 36.27%, with Haemaphysalis (84%) being the predominant genus, followed by Rhipicephalus (9.5%) and Ornithodoros (5.5%). C. burnetii DNA was detected in 10 ticks (0.55%) found in adult and nymphal stages of Haemaphysalis and Rhipicephalus from Srinagar and Kupwara districts. Infections were equally distributed between cattle and sheep, with no significant differences by tick gender or life stage. Peak prevalence was observed in summer in the month of July. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close clustering of Kashmir isolates (Cox-87 and Cox-81) with reference strains from the United States, Germany, and Indian goat-associated strains. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides the first molecular evidence of C. burnetii in ticks from Kashmir, highlighting low-level circulation and the need for integrated surveillance and One Health strategies.