الملخص

The water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is regarded as one of the most valuable domesticated species in Asia in general and in Iraq in particular, where it plays a crucial role in the agricultural economy. However, their productivity is greatly influenced by various infectious diseases, of which tick-borne haemoprotozoal diseases are a major constraint to animal health and profitability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiological and clinical parameters and hematological alterations associated with these infections in buffalo at Kerbala, Iraq. A total of 400 buffaloes of different ages were clinically investigated, and blood samples were collected for microscopic and hematological analysis. The data revealed a total prevalence of piroplasmosis of 37%, with 20.5% and 16.5% of the buffaloes being infected with theileriosis and babesiosis, respectively. Females and buffaloes<1 year of age were more frequently affected, suggesting that sex and age have a significant impact on the infection rate. The clinical symptoms of the infected animals included fever, superficial lymphadenopathy, nasal and ocular discharges, salivation, anemia, respiratory distress, corneal opacity, and haemoglobinuria. (mention of the diagnostic method (microscopy)) The haematological results showed a significant decrease in haemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), and red blood cell counts. There were also significant increases in white blood cells, basophils, lymphocytes, and neutrophils. This shows that these parasites cause anemia and stimulate the immune responses of the infected buffalo. The results of this study emphasise the need to monitor the clinical and haematological status of the animals, as well as the need to control tick infestations and implement measures to prevent the spread of these diseases.