Identification of Ticks Infesting Cattle in Konya Region and Investigation of the Presence of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Ticks

Aim: This study was designed to identify the tick species infesting cattle in the southern region of Konya and to investigate the presence of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in these ticks. Materials and Methods: Tick samples were obtained from 60 cattle selected from 30 farms, where tick infestations were macroscopically observed in the livestock. The presence of CCHF was investigated molecularly by RT-PCR method. Ticks infesting 60 cattle from 30 farms located in the five designated study areas (Karabayır, Karacahisar, Arslantaş, Kozağaç, and Kayapınar neighborhoods) were collected. The collected ticks were identified to species. Results: A total of 117 ticks were identified, with 111 (94.87%) identified as Hyalomma marginatum, 3 (2.56%) identified as Hyalomma excavatum, and 3 (2.56%) identified as Dermacentor marginatus. In the RT-PCR analysis conducted on 35 pools of ticks (considering tick species, sex, and collection area), no presence of the CCHF virus was detected. Conclusion: The identification of the majority of the ticks in this study as Hyalomma marginatum is noteworthy. The identification of Hyalomma marginatum as the vector of the CCHF disease in Türkiye is indicative of increasing concerns. Molecular and serological evidence showing the presence of the CCHF virus in the region, albeit limited, indicates that more comprehensive studies related to the disease are necessary.