Molecular prevalence of blood-borne pathogens in cattle and water buffaloes in Southeast Asia: Systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aims to systematically review and meta-analyze published evidence on the molecular prevalence of blood-borne pathogens in livestock, with a particular focus on cattle and water buffaloes raised in Southeast Asia. We will include cross-sectional that report PCR-based detection of rickettsial organisms and protozoan parasites. The review will summarize pooled prevalence estimates, describe the distribution of pathogens across countries and sub-regions (mainland and maritime Southeast Asia), and explore sources of heterogeneity related to host species, geographic location, and diagnostic methods. The findings are expected to provide a comprehensive overview of the burden of blood-borne pathogens in ruminants in Southeast Asia and to identify knowledge gaps relevant to disease surveillance and control in smallholder livestock systems.