Field Studies

The Field Studies section provides human reference and serological and/or molecular diagnostic services for selected zoonotic disease agents including:

• Anaplasma phagocytophilum
• Babesia species including B. microti, B. duncani and B. divergens
• Bartonella species including B. henselae and B. quintana
• Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) sensu stricto and B. burgdorferi sensu lato including European genospecies B. afzelii and B. garinii
• Ehrlichia chaffeensis
• Leptospira species
• Relapsing Fever Borrelia including B. hermsii and B. miyamotoi

Please contact nml.fs-lnm.et@phac-aspc.gc.ca for any and all non-human animal or arthropod vector-borne reference, surveillance or research services.

In addition, the section undertakes outbreak investigations, national surveillance and research studies related to many additional zoonotic disease agents not listed above. Research interests include field- and laboratory-based investigations on the factors determining the distribution and prevalence of zoonotic diseases in Canada with emphasis on tick-borne, mosquito-borne and rodent-associated diseases. Results of these activities are used to better inform interested parties (including the general public, non-governmental and governmental agencies) about the relative risks of contracting these zoonotic diseases in Canada and form the basis for recommendations about how best to prevent or minimize exposure to these pathogens. Applied research interests include the development and optimization of assays to detect emerging tick and mosquito-borne pathogens. The section also performs a reference role by providing proficiency panels, pathogen samples, and technical expertise to external clients. Please reach out to the section directly for inquires.