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Pinilla JC, Morales E, Muñoz AAF. A survey for potentially zoonotic parasites in backyard pigs in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area, Northeast Colombia. Vet World 2021; 14:372-379. [PMID: 33776302 PMCID: PMC7994133 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.372-379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Backyard pigs farming is a rearing system associated with poor hygienic and sanitary conditions of the pig, often causing public health and food safety problems. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the occurrence of potentially zoonotic parasites in population pig reared under backyard farming in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area, Northeast Colombia. Materials and Methods: From September to December 2019, a total of 558 fecal samples from 64 backyard pig farms were examined for the presence of enteric protozoan infection. The coprological diagnosis was done by direct examination using Lugol’s iodine solution, buffered saline solution, and Kinyoun technique. In addition, blood samples were collected from 200 pigs. Serum was collected and used for the detection of Trichinella spiralis and Taenia solium cysticercosis infections, using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The overall prevalence of zoonotic protozoa in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area was 65.2%, reporting 52.7% prevalence for Balantidium coli, 33.7% for Entamoeba coli, and 5.7% for Cryptosporidium spp. Regarding the prevalence by municipalities, there was no statistical association (p>0.05), indicating that the prevalence was similar in the region under study. Pigs >7 months of age showed to be a risk factor for B. coli infection, indicating that the prevalence increases with the age, while pigs raised at >1000 masl and access to latrines, increased infection risk for E. coli and Cryptosporidium spp. infections. In the present study, T. spiralis infection was not detected in the analyzed sera, while T. solium cysticercosis infection was found to be 40.5%. Conclusion: The high prevalence of protozoan infections and porcine cysticercosis reported in this study could be due to poor facilities, and lack of hygiene in the facilities, and suggests the possible transmission of these parasite populations between pigs and humans, thus increasing the transmission of parasites zoonotic potential. Therefore, appropriate sanitary management practices and deworming programs should be adopted to reduce the prevalence of these infectious agents.
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O’Keefe J, Tracy L, Yuen L, Bonanzinga S, Li X, Chong B, Nicholson S, Jackson K. Autochthonous and Travel Acquired Hepatitis E Virus in Australia. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:640325. [PMID: 33633719 PMCID: PMC7901960 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.640325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a common cause of acute viral hepatitis with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in pregnant women. There are four major genotypes which can cause disease in humans. Genotypes 1 and 2 are usually associated with outbreaks and spread via facal/oral route or contaminated water. Genotypes 3 and 4 are zoonotic and usually associated with handling of pigs or consumption of contaminated pork. The strains circulating in Australia have never been characterized. RATIONALE/AIMS The aims for this project are to identify the HEV genotypes found in Australia and link them to possible sources of transmission by phylogenetic analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between 2015 and 2020, 91 HEV isolates were sequenced and genotyped using an in-house PCR. Sixty-six of these were also sequenced by using the international HEVnet primers. Genotypes were determined using the BLASTn program. Relatedness to other strains in Australia was determined by phylogenetic analyses of the HEVnet sequences. Isolates were also stratified by state of origin, gender, age, predisposing factors and travel history (if known). RESULTS Of the 91 HEV isolates sequenced, 55 (60.4%) were genotype 1. There were 34 (37.4%) genotype 3 strains and two genotype 4 (2.2%). At least 20 of the genotype 1 strains have been linked to travel in India, and another three with Pakistan. Five of the "Indian" strains were closely related and are suspected to have originated in Gujarat. Phylogenetic analysis also showed that 12 genotype 3 strains were genetically related and potentially acquired in/from New South Wales, Australia. The two genotype 4 strains may have originated in China. DISCUSSION This is the first study to describe the HEV isolates identified in Australia. The results infer that HEV may be acquired during overseas travel as well as locally, presumably from consumption of pork or pork-related products. The phylogenetic analyses also reveal clusters of infection originating from India and Pakistan. This study provides some insight into the source and epidemiology of HEV infection in Australia which may be used to guide public health procedure and enable the implementation of measures to deal with potential outbreaks of infection.
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Jones B. Eating meat and not vaccinating: In defense of the analogy. BIOETHICS 2021; 35:135-142. [PMID: 33222212 PMCID: PMC7753820 DOI: 10.1111/bioe.12834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The devastating impact of the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic is prompting renewed scrutiny of practices that heighten the risk of infectious disease. One such practice is refusing available vaccines known to be effective at preventing dangerous communicable diseases. For reasons of preventing individual harm, avoiding complicity in collective harm, and fairness, there is a growing consensus among ethicists that individuals have a duty to get vaccinated. I argue that these same grounds establish an analogous duty to avoid buying and eating most meat sold today, based solely on a concern for human welfare. Meat consumption is a leading driver of infectious disease. Wildlife sales at wet markets, bushmeat hunting, and concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) are all exceptionally risky activities that facilitate disease spread and impose immense harms on human populations. If there is a moral duty to vaccinate, we also should recognize a moral duty to avoid most meat. The paper concludes by considering the implications of this duty for policy.
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Glasser DB, Goldberg TL, Guma N, Balyesiima G, Agaba H, Gessa SJ, Rothman JM. Opportunities for respiratory disease transmission from people to chimpanzees at an East African tourism site. Am J Primatol 2021; 83:e23228. [PMID: 33400317 PMCID: PMC7883129 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Respiratory illnesses, including COVID‐19, present a serious threat to endangered wild chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) populations. In some parts of sub‐Saharan Africa, chimpanzee tracking is a popular tourism activity, offering visitors a chance to view apes in their natural habitats. Chimpanzee tourism is an important source of revenue and thus benefits conservation; however, chimpanzee tracking may also increase the risk of disease transmission from people to chimpanzees directly (e.g., via aerosol transmission) or indirectly (e.g., through the environment or via fomites). This study assessed how tourist behaviors might facilitate respiratory disease transmission at a chimpanzee tracking site in Kibale National Park, Uganda. We observed tourists, guides, and student interns from the time they entered the forest to view the chimpanzees until they left the forest and noted behaviors related to disease transmission. Common behaviors included coughing, sneezing, and urinating, which respectively occurred during 88.1%, 65.4%, and 36.6% of excursions. Per excursion, individuals touched their faces an average of 125.84 ± 34.45 times and touched large tree trunks or branches (which chimpanzees might subsequently touch) an average of 230.14 ± 108.66 times. These results show that many pathways exist by which pathogens might move from humans to chimpanzees in the context of tourism. Guidelines for minimizing the risk of such transmission should consider tourist behavior and the full range of modes by which pathogen transmission might occur between tourists and chimpanzees. Great ape tourism presents risk for reverse zoonotic infection. Future guidelines for great ape tourism should take into consideration the behavioral propensities of individual tourists.
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Al-Salihi KA, Khalaf JM. The emerging SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2: An insight into the viruses zoonotic aspects. Vet World 2021; 14:190-199. [PMID: 33642804 PMCID: PMC7896889 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.190-199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic coronavirus disease (COVID) has emerged in the past two decades and caused a pandemic that has produced a significant universal health alarm. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and Middle East respiratory syndrome-CoV (MERS-CoV) emerged in 2002 and 2012, respectively, provoking severe lower respiratory infection and deadly pneumonia. COVID-19 is a severe respiratory disease caused by the new strain of novel CoV (SARS-CoV-2). The zoonotic aspects of the SARS-CoV-2 in comparison to SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV are highlighted in this article. COVID-19 has rapidly become a pandemic and has spread and infected millions of people worldwide. As of November 19, 2020, the date of submitting this review, the total CoV cases, deaths, and recovered patients are 56,828,218, 1,359,320, and 39,548,923, respectively. In conclusion, COVID-19 has particularly altered the opinion of the significance of zoonotic diseases and their animal origins and the intermediate reservoirs, which may be unknown wild animals. Genetically, the SARS-CoV-2 is related to the SARS-like bat CoVs and shares 85% identity with the SARS-CoV that is derived from the SARS-like bat CoVs. However, the virus is related to a lesser extent to the MERS-CoV. The SARS-CoV-2 uses the same receptor-binding domain receptor of the SARS-CoV - the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2; conversely, DPP4 (CD26). It has not been proved that the MERS-CoVs primary receptor is the receptor of the SARS-CoV-2.
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Torres-Chable OM, Brito-Argaez LG, Islas-Flores IR, Zaragoza-Vera CV, Zaragoza-Vera M, Arjona-Jimenez G, Baak-Baak CM, Cigarroa-Toledo N, Gonzalez-Garduño R, Machain-Williams CI, Garcia-Rejon JE. Dirofilaria immitis proteins recognized by antibodies from individuals living with microfilaremic dogs. J Infect Dev Ctries 2020; 14:1442-1447. [PMID: 33378288 DOI: 10.3855/jidc.12711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dirofilaria immitis is a nematode that affects human health in several countries of the world. This study was conducted to examine whether serum samples from the owners of microfilaremic dogs present immunoreactivity to parasite proteins. METHODOLOGY Eight serum samples from the owners of microfilaremic dogs were examined. Total proteins were extracted from adult worms and 12% SDS-PAGE was performed. The gel was electroblotted to a nitrocellulose membrane, and a Western blot (WB) was performed. Reactive bands of 22, 33, 39, 49, and 63 kDa in WB were excised from the gel and analyzed by mass spectrometry (MS). RESULTS The MS results showed the presence of 10 different proteins of D. immitis recognized by the human serum samples. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that in endemic areas of D. immitis, owners of infected dogs recognize specific proteins of the parasite, suggesting a possible infection.
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An Environmental Niche Model to Estimate the Potential Presence of Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus in Costa Rica. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 18:ijerph18010227. [PMID: 33396763 PMCID: PMC7795298 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18010227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) is an arbovirus transmitted by arthropods, widely distributed in the Americas that, depending on the subtype, can produce outbreaks or yearly cases of encephalitis in horses and humans. The symptoms are similar to those caused by dengue virus and in the worst-case scenario, involve encephalitis, and death. MaxEnt is software that uses climatological, geographical, and occurrence data of a particular species to create a model to estimate possible niches that could have these favorable conditions. We used MaxEnt with a total of 188 registers of VEEV presence, and 20 variables, (19 bioclimatological plus altitude) to determine the niches promising for the presence of VEEV. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) value for the model with all variables was 0.80 for the training data and 0.72 for the test. The variables with the highest contribution to the model were Bio11 (mean temperature of the coldest quarter) 32.5%, Bio17 (precipitation of the driest quarter) 16.9%, Bio2 (annual mean temperature) 15.1%, altitude (m.a.s.l) 6.6%, and Bio18 (precipitation of the warmest quarter) 6.2%. The product of this research will be useful under the one health scheme to animal and human health authorities to forecast areas with high propensity for VEEV cases in the future.
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Genera and Species of the Anisakidae Family and Their Geographical Distribution. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122374. [PMID: 33322260 PMCID: PMC7763134 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The parasites of the Anisakidae family infest mainly marine mammals; however, they have the ability to infest paratenic hosts such as mollusks, small crustaceans and fish. The consumption of meat from animals of aquatic origin favors the acquisition of the disease known as Anisakiasis or Anisakidosis, depending on the species of the infecting parasite. Currently, the identification of the members of this family is carried out through the use of molecular tests, which brings about the generation of new information. The purpose of this review was to identify the genus and species of the Anisakidae family by reviewing scientific papers that used molecular tests to confirm the genus and species. The adaptability of the Anisakidae family to multiple hosts and environmental conditions allows it to have a worldwide distribution. As it is a zoonotic agent and causes non-specific clinical symptoms, it is important to know about the different members of the Anisakidae family, as well as the hosts where they have been collected. Abstract Nematodes of the Anisakidae family have the ability to infest a wide variety of aquatic hosts during the development of their larval stages, mainly marine mammals, aquatic birds, such as pelicans, and freshwater fish, such crucian carp, these being the hosts where the life cycle is completed. The participation of intermediate hosts such as cephalopods, shrimp, crustaceans and marine fish, is an important part of this cycle. Due to morphological changes and updates to the genetic information of the different members of the family, the purpose of this review was to carry out a bibliographic search of the genus and species of the Anisakidae family identified by molecular tests, as well as the geographical area in which they were collected. The Anisakidae family is made up of eight different parasitic genera and 46 different species. Those of clinical importance to human health are highlighted: Anisakis pegreffi, A. simplexsensu stricto, Contracaecumosculatum, Pseudoterranova azarazi, P. cattani, P. decipiens and P. krabbei. The geographical distribution of these genera and species is located mainly in the European continent, Asia and South America, as well as in North and Central America and Australia. Based on the information collected from the Anisakidae family, it was determined that the geographical distribution is affected by different environmental factors, the host and the ability of the parasite itself to adapt. Its ability to adapt to the human organism has led to it being considered as a zoonotic agent. The disease in humans manifests nonspecifically, however the consumption of raw or semi-raw seafood is crucial information to link the presentation of the parasite with the disease. The use of morphological and molecular tests is of utmost importance for the correct diagnosis of the genus and species of the Anisakidae family.
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Ain-Najwa MY, Yasmin AR, Arshad SS, Omar AR, Abu J, Kumar K, Mohammed HO, Natasha JA, Mohammed MN, Bande F, Abdullah ML, J. Rovie-Ryan J. Exposure to Zoonotic West Nile Virus in Long-Tailed Macaques and Bats in Peninsular Malaysia. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122367. [PMID: 33321964 PMCID: PMC7764493 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The role of wildlife animals, such as macaques and bats, in the spreading and maintenance of deadly zoonotic pathogens in nature are documented in several studies. The present study substantially highlights the first evidence of West Nile Virus (WNV) infection, a mosquito borne virus in the Malaysian macaques and bats. Of the 81 macaques sampled, 24 of the long-tailed macaques were seropositive to WNV, indicating that they were exposed to the virus in the past. The long-tailed macaques were found in the mangrove forests located in the Central, Southern, and West Peninsular Malaysia. Meanwhile, five out of 41 bats (Lesser Short-nosed Fruit Bats, Lesser Sheath-tailed Bats, and Thai Horseshoe Bats) that were found in the caves from Northern Peninsular Malaysia showed susceptibility to WNV. Therefore, a constant bio surveillance of WNV in the wildlife in Malaysia is a proactive attempt. This study was aligned with the Malaysian government’s mission under the Malaysia Strategy for Emerging Diseases and Public Health Emergencies (MYSED) II (2017–2021) and the Ministry of Health priorities in order to enhance the regional capability to rapidly and accurately survey, detect, diagnose, and report outbreaks of pathogens and diseases of security concern. Abstract The role of wildlife such as wild birds, macaques, and bats in the spreading and maintenance of deadly zoonotic pathogens in nature have been well documented in many parts of the world. One such pathogen is the mosquitoes borne virus, namely the West Nile Virus (WNV). Previous research has shown that 1:7 and 1:6 Malaysian wild birds are WNV antibody and RNA positive, respectively, and bats in North America may not be susceptible to the WNV infection. This study was conducted to determine the status of WNV in Malaysian macaques and bats found in mangrove forests and caves, respectively. Archive sera and oropharyngeal swabs from long-tailed macaques were subjected to the antibody detection using WNV competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA) and WNV RNA using RT-PCR, respectively, while the archive oropharyngeal and rectal swabs from bats were subjected to RT-PCR without serological analysis due to the unavailability of serum samples. The analysis revealed a WNV seropositivity of 29.63% (24/81) and none of the macaques were positive for WNV RNA. Meanwhile, 12.2% (5/41) of the bats from Pteropodidae, Emballonuridae, and Rhinolophidae families tested positive for WNV RNA. Here, we show a high WNV antibody prevalence in macaques and a moderate WNV RNA in various Malaysian bat species, suggesting that WNV circulates through Malaysian wild animals and Malaysian bat species may be susceptible to the WNV infection.
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Martínez-Padilla A, Caballero-Gómez J, Magnet Á, Gómez-Guillamón F, Izquierdo F, Camacho-Sillero L, Jiménez-Ruiz S, del Águila C, García-Bocanegra I. Zoonotic Microsporidia in Wild Lagomorphs in Southern Spain. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122218. [PMID: 33256050 PMCID: PMC7761411 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsporidia are obligate intracellular protist-like fungal pathogens that infect a broad range of animal species, including humans. This study aimed to assess the presence of zoonotic microsporidia (Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Encephalitozoon intestinalis, Encephalitozoon hellem, and Encephalitozoon cuniculi) in organ meats of European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) consumed by humans in Spain. Between July 2015 and December 2018, kidney samples from 383 wild rabbits and kidney and brain tissues from 79 Iberian hares in southern Spain were tested by species-specific PCR for the detection of microsporidia DNA. Enterocytozoon bieneusi infection was confirmed in three wild rabbits (0.8%; 95% CI: 0.0-1.7%) but not in hares (0.0%; 95% CI: 0.0-4.6%), whereas E. intestinalis DNA was found in one wild rabbit (0.3%; 95% CI: 0.0-0.8%) and three Iberian hares (3.8%; 95% CI: 0.0-8.0%). Neither E. hellem nor E. cuniculi infection were detected in the 462 (0.0%; 95% CI: 0.0-0.8%) lagomorphs analyzed. The absence of E. hellem and E. cuniculi infection suggests a low risk of zoonotic foodborne transmission from these wild lagomorph species in southern Spain. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of E. intestinalis infection in wild rabbits and Iberian hares. The presence of E. bieneusi and E. intestinalis in organ meats from wild lagomorphs can be of public health concern. Additional studies are required to determine the real prevalence of these parasites in European wild rabbit and Iberian hare.
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Contrasted Epidemiological Patterns of West Nile Virus Lineages 1 and 2 Infections in France from 2015 to 2019. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9110908. [PMID: 33143300 PMCID: PMC7692118 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9110908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Since 2015, annual West Nile virus (WNV) outbreaks of varying intensities have been reported in France. Recent intensification of enzootic WNV circulation was observed in the South of France with most horse cases detected in 2015 (n = 49), 2018 (n = 13), and 2019 (n = 13). A WNV lineage 1 strain was isolated from a horse suffering from West Nile neuro-invasive disease (WNND) during the 2015 episode in the Camargue area. A breaking point in WNV epidemiology was achieved in 2018, when WNV lineage 2 emerged in Southeastern areas. This virus most probably originated from WNV spread from Northern Italy and caused WNND in humans and the death of diurnal raptors. WNV lineage 2 emergence was associated with the most important human WNV epidemics identified so far in France (n = 26, including seven WNND cases and two infections in blood and organ donors). Two other major findings were the detection of WNV in areas with no or limited history of WNV circulation (Alpes-Maritimes in 2018, Corsica in 2018–2019, and Var in 2019) and distinct spatial distribution of human and horse WNV cases. These new data reinforce the necessity to enhance French WNV surveillance to better anticipate future WNV epidemics and epizootics and to improve the safety of blood and organ donations.
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Hassan MM, El Zowalaty ME, Islam A, Rahman MM, Chowdhury MNU, Nine HSMZ, Rahman MK, Järhult JD, Hoque MA. Serological Evidence of Avian Influenza in Captive Wild Birds in a Zoo and Two Safari Parks in Bangladesh. Vet Sci 2020; 7:vetsci7030122. [PMID: 32882787 PMCID: PMC7558454 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7030122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian influenza (AI) is endemic and frequently causes seasonal outbreaks in winter in Bangladesh due to high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 and low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) H9N2. Among avian influenza A viruses (AIV), H5, H7, and H9 subtypes have the most zoonotic potential. Captive birds in zoos and safari parks are used for educational, recreational, breeding, and conservational purposes in Bangladesh. To screen for AIV in captive birds to assess potential public health threats, we conducted a cross-sectional study in two safari parks and one zoo in Bangladesh for four months, from November to December 2013 and from January to February 2014. We collected blood samples, oropharyngeal, and cloacal swabs from 228 birds. We tested serum samples for AIV antibodies using competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA) and AIV sero-subtype H5, H7, and H9 using hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test. Swab samples were tested for the presence of avian influenza viral RNA using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). Across all the samples, AIV antibody prevalence was 9.7% (95% CI: 6.1-14.2, n = 228) and AIV HA subtype H5, H7 and H9 sero-prevalence was 0% (95% CI: 0-1.6, n = 228), 0% (95% CI: 0-1.6, n = 228) and 6.6% (95% CI: 3.72-10.6, n = 228), respectively. No AI viral RNA (M-gene) was detected in any swab sample (0%, 95% CI: 0-1.6, n = 228). Birds in the Safari park at Cox's Bazar had a higher prevalence in both AIV antibody prevalence (13.5%) and AIV H9 sero-prevalence (9.6%) than any of the other sites, although the difference was not statistically significant. Among eight species of birds, Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) had the highest sero-positivity for both AIV antibody prevalence (26.1%) and AIV H9 prevalence (17.4%) followed by Golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus) with AIV antibody prevalence of 18.2% and AIV H9 prevalence of 11.4%. Our results highlight the presence of AI antibodies indicating low pathogenic AIV mingling in captive birds in zoos and safari parks in Bangladesh. Continuous programmed surveillance is therefore recommended to help better understand the diversity of AIVs and provide a clear picture of AI in captive wild birds, enabling interventions to reduce the risk of AIV transmission to humans.
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Charoenkul K, Janetanakit T, Bunpapong N, Boonyapisitsopa S, Tangwangvivat R, Suwannakarn K, Theamboonlers A, Poovorawan Y, Amonsin A. Molecular characterization identifies intra-host recombination and zoonotic potential of canine rotavirus among dogs from Thailand. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 68:1240-1252. [PMID: 32772501 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
From September 2016 to January 2019, we collected 710 rectal swabs from both healthy and sick dogs from small animal hospitals in 5 provinces of Thailand. The samples were tested for canine rotavirus group A (CRV) by using one-step RT-PCR specific to the VP6 gene. Our results showed that 0.70% (5/710) were positive for CRV. The five CRVs were then characterized by whole-genome sequencing. Our results showed that the genotype of Thai CRVs is G3P[3], which is the predominant genotype reported in dogs. The Thai CRVs posed a novel genetic constellation 'G3-P[3]-I3-R3-C3-M3-A9-N2-T3-E3-H6', which has never been reported in CRVs from dogs but has been reported in rotaviruses from humans. Based on phylogenetic analysis, the Thai CRVs are the result of multiple reassortments in which gene segments might have originated from human and bat rotaviruses and suggests the zoonotic potential of the virus.
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Putz EJ, Nally JE. Investigating the Immunological and Biological Equilibrium of Reservoir Hosts and Pathogenic Leptospira: Balancing the Solution to an Acute Problem? Front Microbiol 2020; 11:2005. [PMID: 32922382 PMCID: PMC7456838 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.02005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a devastating zoonotic disease affecting people and animals across the globe. Pathogenic leptospires are excreted in urine of reservoir hosts which directly or indirectly leads to continued disease transmission, via contact with mucous membranes or a breach of the skin barrier of another host. Human fatalities approach 60,000 deaths per annum; though most vertebrates are susceptible to leptospirosis, complex interactions between host species and serovars of Leptospira can yield disease phenotypes that vary from asymptomatic shedding in reservoir hosts, to multi-organ failure in incidental hosts. Clinical symptoms of acute leptospirosis reflect the diverse range of pathogenic species and serovars that cause infection, the level of exposure, and the relationship of the pathogen with the given host. However, in all cases, pathogenic Leptospira are excreted into the environment via urine from reservoir hosts which are uniformly recognized as asymptomatic carriers. Therefore, the reservoir host serves as the cornerstone of persistent disease transmission. Although bacterin vaccines can be used to abate renal carriage and excretion in domestic animal species, there is an urgent need to advance our understanding of immune-mediated host–pathogen interactions that facilitate persistent asymptomatic carriage. This review summarizes the current understanding of host–pathogen interactions in the reservoir host and prioritizes research to unravel mechanisms that allow for colonization but not destruction of the host. This information is required to understand, and ultimately control, the transmission of pathogenic Leptospira.
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Zhao W, Xu J, Xiao M, Cao J, Jiang Y, Huang H, Zheng B, Shen Y. Prevalence and Characterization of Cryptosporidium Species and Genotypes in Four Farmed Deer Species in the Northeast of China. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:430. [PMID: 32903723 PMCID: PMC7438801 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is a major public health problem in humans and animals. Information on the prevalence and molecular diversity of Cryptosporidium in farmed deer in northeastern China is limited. In this study, the prevalence of these parasites was investigated in four farmed deer species, including 125 reindeer, 109 red deer, 86 sika deer, and 18 Siberian roe deer by nested PCR amplification of the partial small subunit of ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene. C. ubiquitum isolates were subtyped using nested PCR and sequence analysis of the 60-kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium was 7.1%, with 15.1% for sika deer, 4.0% for reindeer, 4.6% for red deer, and 5.6% for roe deer. C. ubiquitum (n = 4), C. xiaoi (n = 2), and Cryptosporidium deer genotype (n = 18) were identified. All four C. ubiquitum isolates belonged to the XIIa subtype (n = 4). This study confirms that Cryptosporidium deer genotype is widely occurring in deer in the investigated areas. Presence of zoonotic C. ubiquitum XIIa subtype indicates that farmed deer represent potential source of zoonotic cryptosporidia and might pose a threat to human health.
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Lessler J, Orenstein WA. The Many Faces of Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Disease. Epidemiol Rev 2020; 41:1-5. [PMID: 31680167 DOI: 10.1093/epirev/mxz011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of disease threats can take many forms, from the adaptation of a traditionally zoonotic pathogen for efficient spread in humans, to the development of antibiotic resistance in well-known pathogens, to the creation of new niches for established disease through social and societal changes. In this commentary, the authors explore these various facets of disease emergence through the lens of the papers included in this issue of Epidemiologic Reviews. The authors explore multiple aspects of emergence and the ways in which emergent pathogens can be controlled with the limited tools available. In doing so, they put the papers in this issue in the context of the broader research agenda around understanding and combatting emergent pathogens.
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Sharma G, Mutua F, Deka RP, Shome R, Bandyopadhyay S, Shome BR, Goyal Kumar N, Grace D, Dey TK, Venugopal N, Sahay S, Lindahl J. A qualitative study on antibiotic use and animal health management in smallholder dairy farms of four regions of India. Infect Ecol Epidemiol 2020; 10:1792033. [PMID: 32944162 PMCID: PMC7480485 DOI: 10.1080/20008686.2020.1792033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global public health issue. In India, access to medicines is poorly regulated and therefore antibiotics in dairy cattle are commonly used by farmers without consulting with veterinarians. This study was conducted to understand practices and knowledge related to antibiotic use and AMR among dairy farmers and veterinary professionals in selected urban and peri-urban areas of India. Methods A total of 28 focus group discussions with farmers and 53 interviews with veterinary professionals were carried out. Results Mastitiswas identified as the main animal health challenge. Antibiotic consultation behavior of farmers depended on the availability of veterinarians. Except in Bangalore, farmers were found to often treat animals on their own. They were found unaware of the concept of AMR, but knew the importance of vaccination. Veterinarians included in the study had a good understanding of antibiotics, AMR, and zoonotic diseases. Conclusion The knowledge level and practices observed in the study related to the use/abuse of antibiotics can potentially increase the risk of development of AMR and its transfer in the community. Our findings can help support AMR – mitigation efforts in the country, including the design of better policies on antibiotic use in dairy.
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Warpeha KM, Munster V, Mullié C, Chen SH. Editorial: Emerging Infectious and Vector-Borne Diseases: A Global Challenge. Front Public Health 2020; 8:214. [PMID: 32733830 PMCID: PMC7358341 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Everest H, Hill SC, Daines R, Sealy JE, James J, Hansen R, Iqbal M. The Evolution, Spread and Global Threat of H6Nx Avian Influenza Viruses. Viruses 2020; 12:v12060673. [PMID: 32580412 PMCID: PMC7354632 DOI: 10.3390/v12060673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian influenza viruses of the subtype H6Nx are being detected globally with increasing frequency. Some H6Nx lineages are becoming enzootic in Asian poultry and sporadic incursions into European poultry are occurring more frequently. H6Nx viruses that contain mammalian adaptation motifs pose a zoonotic threat and have caused human cases. Although currently understudied globally, H6Nx avian influenza viruses pose a substantial threat to both poultry and human health. In this review we examine the current state of knowledge of H6Nx viruses including their global distribution, tropism, transmission routes and human health risk.
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Muhammad I, Niaz S, Gul E Nayab, Hussain A, Ahmad S, Rahman N, Khan H, Ali A. Molecular docking and in-vitro analysis of Fagonia cretica and Berberis lyceum extract against Brucella melitensis. Curr Comput Aided Drug Des 2020; 17:946-956. [PMID: 32532195 DOI: 10.2174/1573409916666200612145712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brucellosis is an economically important zoonotic disease caused by the gram negative bacteria belonging to the genus Brucella. Medicinal plants are well known for a wide variety of potential antimicrobial agents that can be used as anti-microbial drugs. METHOD In the present study, crude ethanol and methanol extracts of local plants (Berberies lyceum and Fagonia cretica) were tested in vitro against Brucella melitensis via well diffusion method for their antibacterial activity. In in-silico study, phytochemicals previously identified in the selected plants were docked with homology model of the cytotoxic factor malate synthase G (MSG) highly conserved among Brucella spp., in Molecular Operating Environment (MOE) to predict a potential drug against B. melitensis. Molecular dynamic simulation was performed to predict the stability of MSG through MOE. RESULT Ethanolic crude extracts of B. lyceum showed maximum zone of inhibition (32.5 mm) followed by methanolic extracts (30 mm), while ethanolic extracts of F. cretica showed zone of inhibition (29 mm) followed by methanolic extracts (27.5 mm). In silico screening predicted phytic acid as the most potent inhibitor followed by jehlumine, barbamine, oxyberberine and sindamine. CONCLUSION The synergistic utilization of phytochemicals derived from B. lyceum may potentially provide protection against B. melitensis.
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COVID-19, Health, Conservation, and Shared Wellbeing: Details Matter. Trends Ecol Evol 2020; 35:748-750. [PMID: 32564881 PMCID: PMC7269933 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2020.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Many have stridently recommended banning markets like the one where coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) originally spread. We highlight that millions of people around the world depend on markets for subsistence and the diverse use of animals globally defies uniform bans. We argue that the immediate and fair priority is critical scrutiny of wildlife trade.
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Venkatesan S, Johnston C, Mehrizi MZ. A rare case of tularemic meningitis in the United States from aerosolized Francisella tularensis. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2020; 1:238-241. [PMID: 33000038 PMCID: PMC7493567 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.12037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tularemia is a rare zoonotic disease caused by Francisella tularensis. It can often present with varied clinical presentations, but meningitis is extremely rare. In this case study, we describe a patient who presented to our emergency department with a Tularemic infection coupled with acute atypical meningitis, after he was exposed to aerosolized rabbit hair from lawn mowing. Prompt diagnosis of tularemic meningitis may be difficult without a known history of animal exposure. Despite what is taught in medical school, numerous studies have shown Kernig's sign, Brudzinski's sign, and nuchal rigidity do not have much diagnostic value in adults with meningitis. Yet, almost all patients with meningitis present with at least 2 of the 4 symptoms of fever, headache, altered mental status, and neck stiffness. For this reason, it is essential to stop using Kernig's sign and Brudzinski's sign as the only basis for diagnosing meningitis in every case. With the rampant population increase of rabbits in states like Colorado, Missouri, and Illinois, and a growing number of tularemic patients from lawn mowing incidents popping up across the country, it is also vital to consider the diagnosis of tularemia in your differential diagnosis and send for a cerebrospinal fluid culture, based on a more detailed historytaking of your patient, specifically noting his/her outdoor activities during the initial assessment in the emergency department (ED). This would immensely speed up the process of diagnosing the patient and would ensure a timely start of antibiotics for a full recovery.
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Swine ANP32A Supports Avian Influenza Virus Polymerase. J Virol 2020; 94:JVI.00132-20. [PMID: 32269123 PMCID: PMC7307101 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00132-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian influenza viruses can jump from wild birds and poultry into mammalian species such as humans or swine, but they only continue to transmit if they accumulate mammalian adapting mutations. Pigs appear uniquely susceptible to both avian and human strains of influenza and are often described as virus “mixing vessels.” In this study, we describe how a host factor responsible for regulating virus replication, ANP32A, is different between swine and humans. Swine ANP32A allows a greater range of influenza viruses, specifically those from birds, to replicate. It does this by binding the virus polymerase more tightly than the human version of the protein. This work helps to explain the unique properties of swine as mixing vessels. Avian influenza viruses occasionally infect and adapt to mammals, including humans. Swine are often described as “mixing vessels,” being susceptible to both avian- and human-origin viruses, which allows the emergence of novel reassortants, such as the precursor to the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. ANP32 proteins are host factors that act as influenza virus polymerase cofactors. In this study, we describe how swine ANP32A, uniquely among the mammalian ANP32 proteins tested, supports the activity of avian-origin influenza virus polymerases and avian influenza virus replication. We further show that after the swine-origin influenza virus emerged in humans and caused the 2009 pandemic, it evolved polymerase gene mutations that enabled it to more efficiently use human ANP32 proteins. We map the enhanced proviral activity of swine ANP32A to a pair of amino acids, 106 and 156, in the leucine-rich repeat and central domains and show these mutations enhance binding to influenza virus trimeric polymerase. These findings help elucidate the molecular basis for the mixing vessel trait of swine and further our understanding of the evolution and ecology of viruses in this host. IMPORTANCE Avian influenza viruses can jump from wild birds and poultry into mammalian species such as humans or swine, but they only continue to transmit if they accumulate mammalian adapting mutations. Pigs appear uniquely susceptible to both avian and human strains of influenza and are often described as virus “mixing vessels.” In this study, we describe how a host factor responsible for regulating virus replication, ANP32A, is different between swine and humans. Swine ANP32A allows a greater range of influenza viruses, specifically those from birds, to replicate. It does this by binding the virus polymerase more tightly than the human version of the protein. This work helps to explain the unique properties of swine as mixing vessels.
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Composting Reduces the Vitality of H9N2 in Poultry Manure and EMCV in Pig Manure Allowing for an Environmentally Friendly Use of These Animal Wastes: A Preliminary Study. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8060829. [PMID: 32486515 PMCID: PMC7356560 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8060829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In our study, we monitored the inactivation of two important viruses that are critical in animal husbandry throughout the world. To evaluate the influence of the composting process on inactivation of avian influenza virus (H9N2) in poultry manure compost (PMC) and Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) in pig (swine) manure compost (SMC), the H9N2 and EMCV were injected in dialysis cassettes and buried in two different manure compost piles of poultry and pig manure, respectively. The highest temperature achieved in the PMC and SMC piles during the test period were 75 °C and 73.5 °C, respectively. At the completion of the composting for 168 h, inactivation effect appeared to be more sensitive in H9N2 than EMCV. The vitality of H9N2 decreased by 6.25 ± 0.35 log10TCID50/mL to 0.0 log10TCID50/mL within 1 h of the composting. The vitality of EMCV decreased from 7.75 ± 0.35 log10TCID50/mL to 1.50 log10TCID50/mL within 24 h of starting the composting process. However, the activation of EMCV was not decreased (from 7.75 ± 0.35 to 7.50 ± 0.71 log10TCID50/mL) in the control treatment (not inserted in composts) after 168h, while the activation of H9N2 in dialysis cassettes was significantly decreased (from 6.25 ± 0.35 log10TCID50/mL to 2.00 ± 0.6 log10TCID50/mL). Our study demonstrated the effectiveness of the composting treatment in inactivating the viruses studied, which was not the case with air treatment.
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Abstract
Brucellosis is a form of zoonotic infection caused by various Brucella organisms. It most commonly presents as a case of pyrexia of unknown origin, alongside symptoms such as night sweats, malaise, arthralgias, and myalgias. This report describes the case of a man who presented with pyrexia of unknown origin for one month; he was diagnosed to be a case of brucellosis after enteric fever was ruled out. Investigations were ordered as it was a differential diagnosis with high clinical suspicion due to the presenting complaint and potential exposure of tainted consumable products. The systemic disease was determined to be brucellosis following blood results demonstrating positive antibody titers, and the suspicion of exposure due to widespread inadequacies in sterilization of food products.
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