Evidence of multiple bacterial, viral, and parasitic infectious disease agents in Mastomys natalensis rodents in riverine areas in selected parts of Zambia

ABSTRACT Background Infectious disease agents pose significant threats to humans, wildlife, and livestock, with rodents carrying a third of these agents, many linked to human diseases. However, the range of pathogens in rodents and the hotspots for disease remain poorly understood. Aim This study evaluated the prevalence of viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens in Mastomys natalensis rodents in riverine and non-riverine areas in selected districts in Zambia. Methods The study applied metagenomic next generation sequencing (mNGS). Tissues analysed included semen, foetal tissues, and blood-rich organs (liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs). A multivariate logistic regression model explored the relationship between pathogen presence and host or ecological factors. Results A total of 182 rodents were captured, and 14 pathogens were detected in 10.4% of the samples (19/182). Detected organisms included zoonoses (Klebsiella michiganensis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella enterica, and Bartonella elizabethae); Emerging zoonoses (Elizabethkingia miricola, Klebsiella variicola, Bartonella tribocorum, and Cardiovirus B); among others (Eimeria papillata etc). Riverine areas showed higher odds of pathogen presence (OR = 8.45; p < 0.001; 95% CI: 3.07–23.26). Conclusion These results suggest that M. natalensis harbours multiple infectious agents with zoonotic potential, and riverine regions may be key hotspots for rodent-borne pathogens in Zambia.