Prevalence and Effects of Theileria Spp. on Hematological Parameters in Dromedary Camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Northeastern Libya

Theileriosis is a hemoprotozoan infection spread by ticks and caused by Theileria spp., representing a serious health concern for dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) across Africa and the Middle East. However, its prevalence and hematological impacts in northeastern Libya remain poorly understood. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Theileria spp. infection in dromedary camels in northeastern Libya also to evaluate its effects on hematological parameters. Blood samples were collected randomly from 160 dromedary camels across diffrent localities in northeastern Libya between February 2021 and January 2022. Diagnosis was performed using microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained thin blood smears. Hematological analysis was conducted using an automated hematology analyzer (MEK-6510K, Nihon Kohden, Japan). Statistical differences between infected and non-infected  were evaluated using t-test and ANOVA.The overall prevalence of Theileria spp. infection was 85% (136/160). Parasites appeared within erythrocytes in ring, comma, oval forms, and schizonts were observed as blue bodies within lymphocytes. Infected camels exhibited macrocytic anemia characterized by a significant decrease in red blood cell count ( RBC: 4.83 ± 0.21 × 10⁶/µL) and hemoglobin concentration ( Hb: 10.58 ± 0.22 g/dL), alongside a marked increase in mean corpuscular volume ( MCV: 78.01 ± 5.34 fL). Leukocytosis was also observed ( WBC: 17.95 ± 0.99 × 10³/µL), driven primarily by neutrophilia.Conclusions: Theileriosis is highly endemic in northeastern Libya and significantly impairs the health status of dromedary camels. Urgent interventions including tick control programs and routine hematological monitoring are recommended. Molecular identification of circulating Theileria species is warranted in future studies.