Current distribution and disease association of Ixodidae (hard ticks) in Nigeria

Abstract Background This review documents the hard tick species that have been reported in Nigeria, their distribution, pathogens transmitted and disease they cause in Nigeria; the literature review considered studies that were conducted between 2000 and 2021. Main body The hard tick (Ixodidae) species widely present in the country are those of the genera; Amblyomma, Rhipicephalus/Boophilus, Hyalomma, Ixodes, Dermacentor and Haemaphysalis among which, Amblyomma sp, Hyalomma sp and Rhipicephalus sp. were most widely reported. Ticks cause serious economic losses to the livestock industry via their negative impact on animal health in general and possible transmission of zoonotic pathogens by some species. Ticks’ distribution is favoured by factors which include uncontrolled cross-border movement of animals, lack of strict quarantine measures, extensive animal grazing and suitable climatic condition. Tick-borne diseases commonly reported included Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis, Theileriosis and Ehrlichiosis, while diseases such as Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever and Africa tick bite fever are under-reported. Also, there is paucity of information on the economic impact of these diseases. Measures that have been implemented in the control of ticks included the use of acaricides and to some extent vaccines. Conclusions Ticks and tick-borne diseases constitute serious economic important and studies to fully ascertain these at the national level is recommended. Also, there is need for identification of other species of ticks and under-reported tick-borne diseases to develop more integrated control measures.