Molecular epidemiology reveals co-circulation of five Anaplasma species with zoonotic potential in sheep and goats from Henan province, China.

Anaplasma spp. are tick-borne pathogens of veterinary and public health importance. Although infections in small ruminants have been documented across China, data from the major livestock region of Henan are limited. Here, we conducted the first molecular epidemiological survey of Anaplasma in sheep and goats from Henan province. During 2022-2023, 883 spleen samples were collected from ten prefectures. Screening by nested PCR assay targeting the 16S rRNA gene and subsequent phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA, gltA, and groEL genes revealed an overall prevalence of 12.46% (110/883), with significant regional variation (0-35.37%). Goats exhibited a higher infection rate (15.65%) than sheep (11.33%), a disparity most pronounced for A. ovis (5.22% vs. 0.31%). Five species were identified-A. bovis (5.21%), A. phagocytophilum (3.96%), A. ovis (1.59%), A. capra (0.68%), and A. platys (0.23%)-all of which are recognized as confirmed or potential human pathogens. Notably, seven unclassified strains were characterized as genetic variants of A. phagocytophilum, highlighting considerable local genetic diversity. These findings confirm the endemic circulation of multiple zoonotic Anaplasma species in Henan. Their co-circulation, particularly in densely populated areas, poses a tangible public health risk and underscores the imperative for a "One Health" approach to guide integrated surveillance and control strategies.