Background:
Abortion remains a key cause of reproductive and economic loss in small ruminants. Among infectious agents,
Campylobacter spp. are well-recognized bacterial pathogens responsible for ovine and caprine abortions globally, particularly Campylobacter fetus subsp. fetus and C. jejuni. Despite their established role, limited data exist on the molecular prevalence and geographical distribution of Campylobacter-associated abortion in Iranian small ruminant flocks. This study used
Polymerase Chain Reaction to detect
Campylobacter spp. in aborted fetuses of small ruminants across Iran. Methods: Over two years, ۲۲۴ aborted sheep and goat fetuses were collected from nine Iranian provinces. Necropsies were performed aseptically, and abomasal contents and major organs were sampled. DNA was extracted using a CinnaGen kit, and
Campylobacter spp. were detected by conventional PCR targeting a genus-specific gene. Amplified products were separated on ۱.۵% agarose gels and visualized under UV light. Results: Out of ۲۲۴ aborted fetuses,
Campylobacter spp. DNA was detected in ۲۰ (۸.۹%). The highest prevalence occurred in Gilan (۴۰%), followed by Mazandaran (۱۰%) and West Azerbaijan (۱۰.۳%). No positives were found in Kerman, Fars, Razavi Khorasan, or South Khorasan. Conclusion: This study provides molecular evidence of Campylobacter-associated abortions in small ruminant flocks across Iran. The ۹% prevalence highlights its epidemiological importance suggesting
Campylobacter spp. as an underrecognized cause of reproductive loss. Considering this pathogen’s potential effect on reproductive system, routine diagnostic screening in abortion investigations is recommended. Improved biosecurity, hygienic management of parturition areas, and farmer education are vital to reduce transmission. Further studies using species-level identification and genotyping are needed to clarify the epidemiology and transmission dynamics of Campylobacter-induced abortion in small ruminants.