Detection of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus markers in samples of Ixodes ticks collected in the territory of the Republic of Guinea

Objective of the study. This work was carried out to identify markers (antigen and RNA) of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus in samples from ticks, collected in all landscape-geographical areas of Guinea: Lower, Middle, Upper and Forest, to obtain up-to-date data on the distribution of the pathogen in the country. Materials and methods. Total of 4276 specimens of 8 species of ticks collected in 2016-2019 in the territory of the Republic of Guinea were studied, which were compiled into 1406 samples. Ectoparasites were collected from livestock animals, dogs, and small mammals. Viral antigen was detected using enzyme immunoassay (ELISA). The presence of RNA of the CCHF virus was determined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results and discussion. As a result of the studies, the antigen of the CCHF virus was detected in 21 samples (1.5 %), and RNA - in 37 (2.6 %). All samples, in which the viral antigen was detected, contained RNA of the CCHF virus. Positive results were obtained in samples from all geographical areas of the country. The main vectors and reservoirs of the pathogen in Guinea are ticks of the species Rh. sanguineus, Rh. geigyi, Rh. annulatus and Am. variegatum. The data obtained confirm the previously available information on the possibility of the pathogen circulation in this region and determine the need for further study of the spread of the CCHF virus in the territory of the Republic of Guinea.