# Questionnaire-Based Survey on Risk Factors and Prevalence of Major Vector-Borne Diseases in the Aegean Region of Türkiye

## TL;DR

This study finds that nearly 26% of dogs in Türkiye's Aegean Region have vector-borne diseases, with geography being a key risk factor.

## Contribution

The study provides the first detailed prevalence data and risk factors for canine vector-borne diseases in the Aegean Region of Türkiye.

## Key findings

- 26.3% of dogs tested positive for at least one vector-borne disease.
- Ehrlichiosis and Leishmaniasis were the most common infections.
- Geographic location had a stronger influence on disease risk than dog demographics.

## Abstract

Vector-borne diseases are a growing concern for dog health worldwide, as they can cause severe illness and sometimes death. Understanding where and why these infections occur is essential for protecting both animals and people. This study investigates how common these diseases are in dogs living in the Aegean Region of Türkiye and which factors increase their risk. Medical records from 781 dogs examined between 2019 and 2024 were analyzed, along with information about their living conditions and outdoor exposure. Approximately one in four dogs tested positive for at least one infection, and some were infected with more than one disease at the same time. The most frequent infections were Ehrlichiosis and Leishmaniasis, both affecting the blood and immune system. Interestingly, geographic location played a larger role in disease risk than the dog’s age, breed, or daily activities. These findings highlight the importance of targeted prevention programs in high-risk areas within the Aegean Region (particularly Aydın and the surrounding districts) and underline the need for regular tick control and monitoring to reduce infection rates and protect the health of dogs and their owners.

This study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) in the Aegean Region of Türkiye. Using a questionnaire-based approach, this study intends to fill the gaps in existing knowledge regarding the prevalence and determinants of these infections. A retrospective analysis of 781 dogs presented to Aydın Adnan Menderes University Small Animal Clinic from 2019 to 2024 was conducted. Among these, 205 dogs were confirmed to have at least one CVBD using rapid diagnostic tests (SNAP 4DX PLUS and SNAP Leishmania) with confirmatory methods. Data on dog demographics, lifestyle, and environmental exposure were collected using structured questionnaires. Prevalence rates were calculated based on the at-risk population, and logistic regression determined associations between risk factors and disease occurrence. Overall CVBD prevalence was 26.3%, with Ehrlichiosis (9.9%) and Leishmaniasis (7.4%) being the most common infections. Co-infections were present in 8.3% of cases. Geographical factors significantly influenced infection rates, particularly in Aydın compared to İzmir and Muğla, while demographics like age, breed size, gender, and outdoor activity had no significant impact. This highlights the necessity for region-specific control measures and the need for consistent adherence to preventive protocols to mitigate CVBD prevalence in high-risk areas.