Prevalence and Genetic Diversity of Echinococcus granulosus Sensu Stricto in Sheep from Kazakhstan Rabiga Uakhit, Aidana Tautanova, Ainura Smagulova, Carlos Hermosilla, Aida Abdybekova, Lyudmila Lider, Karina Jazina, Marat Dusmagambetov, Vladimir Kiyan Biology, 2026 Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease caused by the larval stage of the Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.) complex. The disease is globally distributed, with particularly high prevalence in Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan. Despite its significant impact on public health and livestock production, data on CE in sheep in Kazakhstan remain limited. This study investigated the prevalence and genetic diversity of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) in sheep across Kazakhstan, addressing an important zoonotic disease affecting both livestock and human health. Over the course of one year, a total of 31,389 sheep were examined, and cystic echinococcosis cysts were collected from the livers and lungs of 550 infected sheep across 14 regions of Kazakhstan. Molecular analyses targeting mitochondrial genes (nad1, cox1) were performed to determine genetic diversity. The results revealed a higher occurrence of CE in the southern regions of the country. Among the genotyped isolates (57), genotype G1 was dominant, accounting for 84.2% (48) of the samples, whereas genotype G3 (9) was detected at a lower frequency in three regions. A total of 11 distinct haplotypes were identified, indicating considerable genetic diversity among the isolates. Haplotype network analysis suggested gene flow among populations and revealed the widespread presence of the most common haplotype (EgKZ-2) across multiple regions. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and targeted control strategies for cystic echinococcosis, emphasizing the importance of understanding parasite genetic diversity for public health interventions and livestock management in endemic areas. Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of the genetic diversity and transmission dynamics of E. granulosus s.s. in Central Asia.
Parasitofauna of commercial fish species of the Northern (Small) Aral Sea Salika Berdiakhmetkyzy, Аigerim А. Abdibayeva, Ainur А. Zhaksylykova, Bekzhan I. Barbol, Еrzhan Zh Kidiraliyev, Eleonora A. Aryssova, Saltanat A. Kenessary, Alexandr B. Shevtsov, Dinara K. Kamalova, Tynysbek T. Barakbayev, Nurlan S. Sambayev, Aida M. Abdybekova International Journal for Parasitology Parasites and Wildlife, 2026 The catastrophic desiccation of the Aral Sea and subsequent hydrological changes have profoundly altered the region’s ecosystem, leading to the restructuring of both fish communities and their associated parasite assemblages. Despite these changes, data on the current parasite fauna of fish in the Northern (Small) Aral Sea remain extremely limited. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of metazoan parasites infecting commercial fish species in this region. A total of 424 individuals representing 13 fish species were examined, revealing 18 parasite species belonging to seven taxonomic classes: Digenea, Monopisthocotylea, Polyopisthocotylea, Chromadorea, Cestoda, Ichthyostraca, and Copepoda. Overall prevalence was 50%, with intensity ranging from 1 to 100 specimens and mean abundance ranging from 0.03 to 26.5. The highest prevalence and species richness were recorded in Sander lucioperca (83.7%, five species), Abramis brama (68.9%, three species), and Silurus glanis (65%, five species). Ergasilus briani is reported for the first time in the Aral Sea. Dominant species posing the greatest threat to fish health included Diplostomum spp., Tylodelphys clavata , and Achtheres percarum . Molecular analysis confirmed the phylogenetic placement of six parasite species using 18S rRNA sequences (97.4–100% identity), while COX1 data were available for only one species, indicating intraspecific variability and limited reference sequences for some taxa. Comparative analysis with historical data indicates a sharp reduction in metazoan parasite species richness (from 70 to 18 species), while infection levels in key commercial fish remain high. These findings reflect ongoing ecological restructuring and underscore the need for regular monitoring. • Comprehensive analysis of the North Aral Sea parasitofauna after 50 years. • Significant diversity reduction: only 20 parasite species found vs 171 historically. • Ergasilus briani (Copepoda) recorded as a new species for the Small Aral Sea. • Highest infection prevalence in H. molitrix , A. brama , and S. lucioperca. • Parasite identification confirmed using morphological and 18S rRNA sequencing.
Occurrence and epidemiology of bovine coronavirus in cattle in Kazakhstan Yuliya V. Perfilyeva, Andrey V. Zhigailov, Angelina A. Malysheva, Alena S. Cherusheva, Karina R. Ivanova, Zhanna A. Berdygulova, Akerke O. Bissenbay, Saltanat A. Kuatbekova, Zhaniya M. Dosmagambet, Anzhelika V. Lushova, Sofiya A. Kan, Artyom V. Kuligin, Moldir M. Kuatbek, Akzhigit S. Mashzhan, Nurshat Abdolla, Dinara A. Naizabayeva, Anna S. Nizkorodova, Perizat B. Akshalova, Kirpichenko V. Vladimir, Aida M. Abdybekova, Aralbek S. Rsaliyev, Yergali O. Abduraimov, Seidigapbar M. Mamadaliyev, Yuriy A. Skiba, Yekaterina O. Ostapchuk Veterinary Journal, 2025
Molecular Study of Theileria annulata and Anaplasma spp. in Ixodid Ticks from Southern Regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan Zaure Z. Sayakova, Saltanat A. Kenessary, Ainur A. Zhaksylykova, Bagzhan M. Abdimalik, Eleonora A. Kydyrkhanova, Dinara K. Kamalova, Anara Ryskeldina, Yekaterina O. Ostapchuk, Christine M. Budke, Aida M. Abdybekova Veterinary Sciences, 2025 Ixodid ticks are vectors of pathogens that cause dangerous infectious and parasitic diseases in animals, leading to reduced productivity and, in some cases, mass mortality. In Kazakhstan, information on tick fauna and their epizootological role in the transmission of hemoparasites is limited. This study aimed to determine the species composition of ixodid ticks parasitizing cattle in the Almaty, Zhambyl, and Turkistan oblasts, and to assess their potential role in the transmission of Theileria and Anaplasma spp. A total of 3121 ixodid ticks were collected from cattle, belonging to the genera Hyalomma (86.9%; 2711/3121), Rhipicephalus (8.5%; 266/3121), Dermacentor (3.2%; 101/3121), and Haemaphysalis (1.4%; 43/3121). Morphological identification revealed that ticks of the genus Hyalomma, including Hyalomma scupense (31.7%), Hyalomma asiaticum (27.9%), and Hyalomma anatolicum (19.6%), were the predominant species. Rhipicephalus annulatus was recorded for the first time in the Almaty and Zhambyl oblasts. Partial sequencing of the cox1 gene confirmed the species identification obtained by morphological examination. A total of 113 representative ticks were subjected to DNA extraction for the identification of Theileria and Anaplasma species using conventional PCR with primers targeting the 28SrRNA and GroEL genes, respectively. No Anaplasma spp. were detected in the analyzed tick samples. Theileria annulata DNA was identified in seven nymphs of Hy. scupense (6.1%) collected in the Zhambyl oblast, and for the first time in Kazakhstan, in one female Rhipicephalus annulatus (0.9%) collected in the Almaty oblast. The overall infection prevalence of Theileria annulata was 7.0% (8/113).
Survey and Associated Risk Factors for the Presence of Ruminant Pestiviruses in Domestic Ovine and Caprine Populations from Kazakhstan Andrey V. Zhigailov, Yuliya V. Perfilyeva, Angelina A. Malysheva, Alena S. Cherusheva, Zhanna A. Berdygulova, Dinara A. Naizabayeva, Karina R. Ivanova, Saltanat A. Kuatbekova, Zhaniya M. Dosmagambet, Anzhelika V. Lushova, Sofiya A. Kan, Artyom V. Kuligin, Akerke O. Bissenbay, Moldir M. Kuatbek, Akzhigit S. Mashzhan, Nurshat Abdolla, Anna S. Nizkorodova, Elina R. Maltseva, Aralbek S. Rsaliyev, Yergali O. Abduraimov, Ainur A. Zhaksylykova, Aida M. Abdybekova, Seidigapbar M. Mamadaliyev, Yuriy A. Skiba, Yekaterina O. Ostapchuk Viruses, 2025 Pestiviruses, particularly bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), cause significant economic losses worldwide. While cattle are the primary hosts for BVDV, sheep and goats can also be affected. This nationwide survey aimed to assess the prevalence, genetic characteristics, and risk factors associated with pestiviruses in sheep and goats in Kazakhstan. A one-off cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of pestiviruses in sheep and goats across 58 districts in 17 oblasts of Kazakhstan. A total of 2028 animals were examined using antibody ELISA, and RT-qPCR was performed on 2056 samples. Logistic regression models were used to identify potential risk factors linked to pestiviral infection. The overall prevalence of pestiviral infection in small ruminants was estimated to be 53.7% by ELISA and 2.5% by RT-qPCR. Regression analysis revealed that age, farm type, and geographic location were risk factors for pestiviral infections in small ruminants in Kazakhstan. Partial sequence analysis of the 5′-untranslated region confirmed the presence of BVDV2. Phylogenetic analysis revealed two distinct clusters of Kazakhstani BVDV2 strains, which were significantly different from known BVDV2 genotypes. No other ruminant pestiviruses were identified. The results highlight the importance of integrating small ruminants into BVDV infection control strategies to mitigate risks to livestock.
Molecular evaluation of Eimeria spp. Infection in the Volga-Ural Saiga antelope population of the Republic of Kazakhstan Erzhan Zh Kidiraliyev, Ainur A. Zhaksylykova, Eleonora A. Kydyrkhanova, Kaissar Zh Kushaliyev, Alexandr Shevtsov, Ryskeldina Anara, Zhibek P. Sembaeva, M.A. Arzybaev, Christine M. Budke, Aida M. Abdybekova International Journal for Parasitology Parasites and Wildlife, 2024 Saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica) is a protected species in Kazakhstan. Little is known about the parasitofauna of these mammals. Therefore, the focus of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and species diversity of Eimeria spp. infection in the Volga-Ural Saiga antelope population. In June 2023, 104 Saiga antelope fecal samples collected from the district of Zhanibek, located in the province of West Kazakhstan were evaluated using microscopic and molecular techniques. Based on coprovoscopy results, Eimeria spp. Oocysts were present in 22 samples (21%). The four fecal samples containing the largest numbers of Eimeria spp. Oocysts per 10x field were selected for further genetic analysis. DNA extraction, nested PCR amplification, and sequencing were performed on 91 clones, with 80 clones forming a distinct clade and exhibiting genetic similarity to MT801034 Eimeria sp. Voucher HY3. These clones possibly represent an Eimeria specific to Saiga antelopes and gazelle that has previously been morphologically described as Eimeria elegans (Svanbaev, 1979), underscoring the importance of further research into parasitic infections in this protected species.
Genetic diversity and haplotype analysis of cattle hydatid cyst isolates using mitochondrial markers in Kazakhstan Rabiga Uakhit, Sofiya Yalysheva, Aida Abdybekova, Ainura Smagulova, Lyudmila Lider, Karina Jazina, Aidana Tautanova, Vladimir Kiyan Veterinary World, 2024 Background and Aim: In Kazakhstan, the study of Echinococcus infection among farm animals is crucial to monitor the invasion among livestock and map the data obtained. Unfortunately, there are only partial data on the study of Echinococcus among cattle’s in Kazakhstan, which makes it difficult to conduct a comparative analysis of the epidemiological situation among livestock animals. The present study aimed to molecularly identify the species and haplotypes of the E. granulosus complex infecting cattle in Kazakhstan and investigate their genetic variation relative to mitochondrial (mt) targets. Materials and Methods: Individual cyst isolates (n = 700) were collected from infected cattle lungs and livers after slaughter from the slaughterhouse. Total DNA was extracted from the germinal layers of the cyst from each isolate. This DNA sequenced partial mt genes of cytochrome c oxidase 1 (450 bp) and NADH dehydrogenase 1 (1200 bp). Results: We determined that all the sequences were detected as E. granulosus s.s., of which 69 (94.5%) samples belonged to G1, and only 4 (5.4%) samples belonged to the G3 genotype. After bioinformatic analysis, 38 haplotypes were identified. Conclusion: Our findings revealed that the G1 genotype of E. granulosus s.s. is the predominant cattle genotype in Kazakhstan. However, only one region showed the presence of two genotypes G1 and G3, in the sequence, which suggests that further research is needed to investigate the epidemiology of Echinococcus infection in cattle in Kazakhstan. Keywords: cattle, cystic echinococcosis, Echinococcus granulosus, genotypes, haplotype, Kazakhstan.
A survey of the parasites of Ural saiga antelopes and Turkmenian kulans of Kazakhstan Aida M. Abdybekova, Ainur A. Zhaksylykova, Kaissar Zh Kushaliyev, Erzhan Zh Kidiraliyev, Aigerim R. Kozhayeva, Ulbolsyn Zh Kuzhebayeva, Alexey Grachev, Alexandr Shevtsov, Christine M. Budke International Journal for Parasitology Parasites and Wildlife, 2023 Saiga antelope and Turkmenian kulans are considered critically endangered and near threatened, respectively, by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Due to these species’ fragile status, it is important to understand the pathogens infecting their remaining populations. A total of 496 faecal samples were collected from Ural saiga antelope in western Kazakhstan during June, September, and November of 2021 and May and August of 2022 and 149 faecal samples were collected from kulans in the Altyn-Emel nature reserve in south-eastern Kazakhstan from June to August of 2021. Additionally, endo- and ecto-parasites were collected from 17 saiga that were found deceased due to natural causes. Nine helminths (3 cestodes, 6 nematodes) and two protozoans were found in Ural saiga antelope. In addition to intestinal parasites, one case of cystic echinococcosis due to Echinococcus granulosus infection and one case of cerebral coenurosis due to Taenia multiceps infection was identified on necropsy. None of the collected ticks (all Hyalomma scupense) were found positive for Theileria annulate (enolase gene) or Babesia spp. (18 S ribosomal RNA gene) via PCR. Three intestinal parasites (Parascaris equorum, Strongylus sp., and Oxyuris equi) were found in kulans. All identified parasites, in both saiga and kulans, are also found in domesticated livestock, suggesting a need for better understanding of how parasites are maintained within and between regional wild and domestic ungulate populations.
Development and planning of measures to reduce the risk of the foot-and-mouth disease virus spread (case of the Republic of Kazakhstan) Kairat Turgenbayev, Aida Abdybekova, Assiya Borsynbayeva, Vladimir Kirpichenko, Aiken Karabassova, et al. Caspian Journal of Environmental Sciences, 2023 The current epizootic situation of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the world indicates the need to organize measures for its prevention and elimination among agricultural and wild animals. The present study aimed to develop and plan measures to reduce the risk of spreading FMD virus in Kazakhstan. In epizootiological studies, the authors used the periodic bulletins of the World Organization for Animal Health, statistical data on the epizootic situation of FMD in Kazakhstan, geographical data of the territories of the regions of Kazakhstan included in the zones with vaccination and acceptable FMD status, and other necessary information. FMD monitoring was carried out by serological and virological studies of blood serum samples by detecting antibodies to the nonstructural protein of FMD virus and the reproductive pathogen or its antigenic components. According to the results of epizootiological monitoring, serological studies established the highest sero-positivity (25.3%) in cattle during 2021. Repeated virological studies of samples from these animals did not established signs of the presence and persistent circulation of FMD virus. However, in 2022, a case of FMD was recorded in the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan in the zone without vaccination. It was found that the immunogenicity of FMD vaccine among vaccinated cattle, goats and sheep was 85% or higher. However, the intensity of post-vaccination immunity persisted for about 3 months, instead of the 6 months guaranteed by the manufacturer. The extensive type of animal husbandry did not reduce the threats of the spread of FMD virus. The authors have identified logistics corridors through which the penetration and spread of FMD virus is possible. It is not possible to minimize the threat of spread using vaccination alone. Therefore, the authors have developed measures that include elements of biosecurity, surveillance and rapid diagnostics, animal movement control, and international cooperation.
Epizootology and Epidemiology of Opisthorchiasis in Northern Kazakhstan Marat Zhaksylykovich Aubakirov, Aida Makenovna Abdybekova, Madina Asylkhanovna Khassanova, Azamat Zhaksibekovich Issabayev, Nurlan Sarsenbayevich Kaumenov, Alexandra Alekseevna Tegza, Vladislav Andreevic Sapa, Vladimir Nikolaevich Domatsky, Evgenia Nikolaevna Erenko, Karina Namazbaevna Namazbai Online Journal of Biological Sciences, 2022
Parasites of farmed marals in Kazakhstan Aida M. Abdybekova, Akhmetzhan A. Sultanov, Nurgul M. Dzhusupbekova, Aigerim A. Abdibayeva, Ainur A. Zhaksylykova, Raushan A. Kerimbaeva, Gulnazi D. Akhmetova, Paul R. Torgerson Small Ruminant Research, 2017
Rabies in Kazakhstan Akmetzhan A. Sultanov, Sarsenbay K. Abdrakhmanov, Aida M. Abdybekova, Bolat S. Karatayev, Paul R. Torgerson Plos Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2016
