Detection of Rickettsia spp. and host and habitat associations of fleas (Siphonaptera) in eastern Taiwan

摘要: Rickettsia typhi and felis (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) are two rickettsiae principally transmitted by fleas, but the detection of either pathogen has rarely been attempted in Taiwan. Of 2048 small mammals trapped eastern Taiwan, Apodemus agrarius Pallas (24.5%) Mus caroli Bonhote (24.4%) (both: Rodentia: Muridae) were most abundant, M. hosted highest proportion fleas (63.9% 330 fleas). Two flea species identified: Stivalius aporus Jordan Rothschild (Siphonaptera: Stivaliidae), Acropsylla episema Leptopsyllidae). Nested polymerase chain reaction targeting parts ompB gltA genes showed six to be positive for spp. (3.8% 160 samples), which greatest similarity R. felis, japonica, conorii or sp. TwKM01. was not detected co-infection did occur. Both more abundant during months with lower temperatures less rainfall, abundance on related soil hardness, vegetative height, ground cover litter understory layer, caroli. Our study reveals potential circulation other necessitating further surveillance rickettsial diseases this region. This is especially important because many novel rickettsioses emerging worldwide.