Immunization of rabbits against Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum using larval and nymphal extracts

Abstract

The protective capacity of the crude extracts from larval and nymphal stages of Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum was examined in the New Zealand white rabbits. The rabbits were randomly divided into 3 groups of five animals. The rabbits in groups 1 and 2 were immunized with crude extracts of larval and nymphal antigens, respectively and group 3 was served as control. Following challenge of each rabbit with 2000 larvae of H. a. anatolicum , engorged nymphs were collected, weighed and then cultured in an incubator. A significant decrease in weight of engorged nymphs was only observed in group 1 that immunized with crude extracts of tick's larvae (P