Molecular Detection and Genetic Diversity of Zoonotic Pathogens in Stray and Owned Dogs in Aqaba, Jordan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64149/J.Carcinog.24.3s.422-427Keywords:
Zoonotic diseases; Molecular epidemiology; Genetic diversity; PCR; Sequencing; Jordan; Stray dogs; Owned dogsAbstract
Background: Genetic surveillance of zoonotic pathogens in canine populations provides crucial insights into transmission risks for humans.
Objectives: To estimate prevalence and characterize genetic diversity of key zoonotic pathogens in stray and owned dogs in Aqaba, Jordan using molecular methods.
Methods: We sampled 600 dogs (Jan–Jun 2025). Molecular detection targeted Bartonella henselae, Leptospira spp., and Toxoplasma gondii by PCR with Sanger confirmation for representative amplicons. Epidemiologic comparisons were conducted between stray and owned dogs; significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results: Molecular detection identified Bartonella henselae (12%), Leptospira spp. (7%), Toxoplasma gondii (4%), other rare pathogens (2%), and 75% were negative. Stray dogs showed significantly higher positivity across targets. Conventional assays under-detected cases compared with PCR. An illustrative phylogenetic schematic shows clustering consistent with multiple clades.
Conclusions: Molecular methods improved detection and revealed genetic heterogeneity among pathogens circulating in dogs in Aqaba. Integrating PCR-based surveillance with One Health actions is recommended.
