Haemaphysalis ticks of India

Haemaphysalis ticks have significant role in the transmission of bacteria, virus and protozoa in humans and animals. They infest wild and domestic animals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals including humans and are found worldwide mainly in Oriental, Afrotropical, Palearctic regions and Australasia (Australia, New Zealand, and New Guinea). These ticks exhibit a three-host life cycle. The most widely distributed Haemaphysalis tick in India is H. bispinosa, followed by H. intermedia and H. spinigera. Haemaphysalis sambar, H. knobigera, H. wellingtoni and H. megalamae are not commonly reported in India and have been recorded only in one state. Following the first reported outbreak of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) in Shimoga district, Karnataka, India, research on Haemaphysalis ticks gained significant importance. Haemaphysalis spinigera is the known primary vector of KFD and hence understanding the ecology, behaviour, and distribution of these ticks became crucial for controlling and preventing further outbreaks in the region. This review aims to compile and summarize the reported Haemaphysalis tick species in India, along with the pathogens detected from them, providing insights into both species diversity and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) diversity.