Chicken eggs as a surveillance tool for malaria and leishmaniasis vector presence

Abstract

Introduction: Malaria and leishmaniases are transmitted by vectors during blood-feeding. Vector-infected animals develop antibodies against the vector's saliva. This study evaluated IgY antibody detection in the chicken eggs exposed to bites from Migonemyia migonei, Lutzomyia longipalpis and Anopheles aquasalis. Methods: We used ELISA to quantify the antibody levels in the sera and exposed chicken eggs. Results: High IgY levels were observed following immunization; furthermore, higher reactivity was observed in the eggs and species-specific immune response was observed post final immunization. Conclusions: Chicken eggs can be used as sentinels to surveil vector saliva antibodies.