A scoping review on tick species and pathogens distributed in Kenya and cross-border districts

Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a major threat to human and animal health worldwide; however, the geographic distribution of tick species and associated pathogens in Kenya and cross-border districts is limited. This scoping review synthesised published literature to map the reported distribution of tick species, pathogens, and host associations in Kenya and cross-border districts.

A total of 977 records were identified, of which 142 met the inclusion criteria. Extracted data were analysed to characterise geographic distribution patterns across counties in Kenya and bordering districts. Thirty-two tick species and nine pathogens were reported across 12 host categories, including livestock, domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. Reports were geographically concentrated in Laikipia County, while several regions in Eastern Kenya showed limited published data, indicating potential surveillance and research gaps.

The most frequently reported species included <i>Amblyomma variegatum</i> and <i>Rhipicephalus appendiculatus</i>, associated with pathogens such as <i>Theileria parva</i>, <i>Ehrlichia</i> spp., and <i>Rickettsia africae</i>. The findings highlight uneven spatial reporting and underscore the need for expanded surveillance and standardised diagnostic approaches, particularly in underrepresented regions.

This synthesis provides a consolidated spatial overview to inform future research priorities and tick-borne disease control strategies in Kenya and in cross-border areas.