One Health Approach to Tick and Tick-Borne Disease Surveillance in Iran

Introduction: Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) represent a growing public health and veterinary concern, driven by environmental change, expanding vector habitats, and increased human–animal interactions. In Iran, ticks are vectors of zoonotic pathogens, including Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and theileriosis. The epidemiology of these diseases necessitates an integrated surveillance framework considering the interconnected health of humans, animals, and ecosystems. This study aimed to evaluate the application of a One Health approach for surveillance and control of ticks and tick-borne diseases in Iran. CCHF remains one of the most important tick-borne zoonoses in the country, with cases reported across many provinces and involvement of livestock and tick reservoirs.

Methods: A multidisciplinary surveillance framework was developed by integrating entomological, veterinary, environmental, and public health data. Tick specimens were collected from livestock, wildlife, and environmental habitats across ecological regions of Iran. Molecular screening, pathogen detection, geographic information systems (GIS), and epidemiological analyses were employed to identify tick species, prevalence, and transmission hotspots. Surveillance data from health sectors were incorporated to assess disease dynamics.

Results: Surveillance identified multiple tick genera, including Hyalomma, Rhipicephalus, Haemaphysalis, and Dermacentor, with Hyalomma species representing vectors of pathogens. Several tick-borne pathogens were detected in livestock ticks, particularly CCHF virus, demonstrating circulation within vector and animal populations. Previous studies documented distribution of CCHF-associated ticks and viral detection in several Iranian provinces. Spatial analyses revealed ecological factors associated with increased vector abundance and disease risk.

Discussion: The findings highlight the value of One Health-based surveillance for detection and prevention of tick-borne diseases in Iran. Strengthening collaboration among veterinary, medical, and environmental sectors, combined with surveillance and risk mapping, could improve preparedness and control. An integrated national surveillance network would enhance public health protection, livestock productivity, and ecosystem resilience against emerging tick-borne threats.