A prospective cohort study on seroprevalence and seroconversion of Ehrlichia canis in imported dogs from endemic regions to the Netherlands and other vector-borne coinfections

Abstract

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, caused by Ehrlichia canis, poses a significant health concern in dogs, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of the disease, such as the Mediterranean basin. This prospective cohort study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of Ehrlichia canis infections in dogs imported from the Mediterranean basin to the Netherlands. A total of 250 dogs underwent serological testing using the indirect immunofluorescence antibody (IFA) test, with samples collected twice—initially within 6 weeks of importation and subsequently during a follow-up consultation conducted 7-24 months later. The findings revealed a seroprevalence of 22.4% during the initial consultation and 17.9% during the follow-up consultation.