The Role of Camels in the Epizootiology and Epidemiology of Plague in the Republic of Kazakhstan

Camels are increasingly recognized as an important epizootological and epidemiological link in natural plague foci, facilitating the transmission of Yersinia pestis from wildlife to humans. In the Republic of Kazakhstan, where natural plague foci occupy up to 40% of the territory, the rapid growth of camel populations may significantly enhance epidemiological risks. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive assessment of the role of camels in the epizootology and epidemiology of plague based on retrospective data (1907–2003) and contemporary monitoring (2000–2025), including spatial analysis and risk zoning. A total of 64 cases of camel plague and 43 epizootic foci were identified during the historical period, associated with more than 400 human cases and deaths. Direct contact during slaughter and meat processing accounted for 94.7% of human infections. Modern data demonstrate that over 90% of the camel population is concentrated in plague-endemic regions. Spatial analysis and epidemiological zoning revealed a heterogeneous risk distribution, with western and southern regions representing the highest-risk areas. Serological investigation (n = 2726) showed 75.6% seropositivity, indicating a high level of population immunity, largely associated with vaccination. Despite increasing camel population size (from 227.7 to 304.0 thousand heads in 2020–2025), vaccination coverage varied between 32.0% and 51.0%, reflecting risk-based preventive strategies. The absence of recent camel plague cases confirms the effectiveness of integrated control measures, including vaccination, surveillance, and establishment of protective zones. These findings demonstrate that camels remain a critical component of plague transmission systems and should be systematically integrated into surveillance programs within a One Health framework.