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Masombuka M, Mphuthi MBN, Ngoshe YB, Mokolopi G, Gcebe N. Seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii in sheep and goats of North West Province, South Africa. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:120. [PMID: 38532402 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03939-7] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii causes toxoplasmosis, one of the most prevalent parasitic zoonotic diseases with significant economic and public health implications worldwide. Infection with the parasite has a significant adverse effect on sheep and goat production and can frequently go undetected in the herd, resulting in abortions and weak or dead offspring. Although there are few studies on seroprevalence and risk factors associated with T. gondii infections in livestock in other provinces of South Africa, there is no data in the North West province. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and risk factors associated with exposure in sheep and goats of the North West province of South Africa. Sera from 439 livestock (164 sheep and 285 goats) were collected and analysed for the presence of T. gondii IgG antibodies using indirect ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). An assessment of potential risk factors in farms associated with seropositivity was also conducted using a structured questionnaire. RESULTS Out of the 439 tested sheep and goats, 13.9% (61/439) were positive for IgG antibodies against T. gondii. Sheep and goats had seroprevalences of 19.5% (32/164) and 10.5% (29/275) respectively. In the multivariable logistic regression model, the risk of acquiring T. gondii was significantly higher in the mixed breed [Odds ratio (OR) = 71.07; 95% confidence interval (CI): 266.8-1893.1; p < 0.011)] animals than white dorper sheep and in farms that burn or bury aborted material (OR = 42.04; CI: 179.9-982.5; p = 0.020) compared to those that only burn aborted material. The risk was lower for the farms in Kagisano-Molopo (OR = 0.00; CI: 0.0-25.4; p = 0.015) and Mahikeng (OR = 0.00; CI: 0.0-4.9; p < 0.001) local municipalities than Greater Taung local municipality, and for the animals that drink water from dams (OR = 0.03; CI: 0.2-58.8; p = 0.021) than those that drink from boreholes. CONCLUSION The seroprevalence and risk factors associated with transmission observed show that T. gondii infection is widespread in sheep and goats of the North West province.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mthokozisi Masombuka
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Science Campus, Private Bag X6, Florida, Johannesburg, 1710, South Africa.
- Department of Animal Health, School of Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2735, South Africa.
| | - Malekoba B N Mphuthi
- Department of Animal Health, School of Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2735, South Africa
| | - Yusuf B Ngoshe
- Epidemiology Section, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Gloria Mokolopi
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Science Campus, Private Bag X6, Florida, Johannesburg, 1710, South Africa
| | - Nomakorinte Gcebe
- Agricultural Research Council- Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Bacteriology, and Zoonotic Diseases Laboratory, 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
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Prevalence and risk factors of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii infection in breeding ewes from central western Mexico. Trop Anim Health Prod 2022; 54:225. [PMID: 35794282 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-022-03221-8] [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: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to analyse the prevalence of infection by N. caninum and T. gondii in breeding ewes from central western Mexico. For this purpose, 184 blood samples were collected from sheep in the reproductive stage, which were analysed by ELISA and PCR tests, respectively, and the association between seroprevalence and some management factors was estimated by means of a logistic regression analysis. For N. caninum, a seroprevalence of 15.22% was identified, while the DNA detection in blood was 14.13% (26/184); positive animals were found in 75% of the farms (6/8). The variables poor placental waste management (OR 8.4), abortion history (OR 1.5) and presence of rodents (OR 1.3) were identified as risk factors for N. caninum infection. In the case of T. gondii, a seroprevalence of 61.96% was found, and antibodies were detected in eight farms included in the study; no positive samples were identified for T. gondii by the PCR test. The main identified risk factors for T. gondii were as follows: poor hygiene conditions (OR 12.5), presence of cats (OR 9.5), presence of other domestic animals (OR 5.7), urban context of the farm (OR 9.5) and public water supply (OR 5.3). The seroprevalence of co-infection of T. gondii and N. caninum in breeding ewes was 7% (13/184; 95% CI 6.92-7.20). T. gondii has a high seroprevalence while N. caninum was of lower proportion, and both may be associated with reproductive losses for these herds studied.
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Sousa LN, Batista SP, Silva SS, da Silva RF, Sarmento WF, Mota RA, Brasil AWL, Amaku M, Feitosa TF, Vilela VLR. Dynamics of natural infection by Toxoplasma gondii in goat herds in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil: transitional antibody observation. Vet Res Commun 2022; 46:507-515. [PMID: 34985650 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-021-09878-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to describe the transmission of T. gondii in naturally infected goats in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil, through evaluating the serological status of these animals from one to 12 months of age. Seven goat farms were selected. During the first visit, an epidemiological questionnaire was applied. Blood samples were collected from pregnant goats and from their female offspring every month, to monitor them for anti-T. gondii antibodies, using the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT). Out of 66 pregnant goats evaluated, 47% (31/66) (95% CI: 34.6% - 59.7%) were positive and out of 93 female offspring, 61.3% (57/93) (95% CI: 52.4% - 69.2%) were positive, in at least one month during the evaluation period. Among the positive female offspring, 43.3% (27/57) (95% CI: 39.7% - 56.9%) presented environmental infection and 56.7% (30/57) (95% CI: 43.4% - 66.3 %) probably had only colostral antibodies or vertical transmission. It was observed that 92,6% (25/27) from environmental infections occurred until reproductive age (six months) (p<0.0001). It was also noted that there is a correlation between the titration of mothers and offspring, until four months of age (p<0.0001). Large fluctuations in the presence of antibodies were observed among the animals over the months monitored. It can be concluded that the prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies within the herds was greater than what has been expressed in specific prevalence studies and that most goat become infected up to the six months of life in the studied area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Nascimento Sousa
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), Patos, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Samira Pereira Batista
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), Patos, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Samara Santos Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), Patos, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Rômulo Fylipe da Silva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Institute of Paraíba (IFPB), Avenida Presidente Tancredo Neves, s/n, Jardim Sorrilândia, ZC, Sousa, Paraíba, 58800-970, Brazil
| | - Wlysse Ferreira Sarmento
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Institute of Paraíba (IFPB), Avenida Presidente Tancredo Neves, s/n, Jardim Sorrilândia, ZC, Sousa, Paraíba, 58800-970, Brazil
| | - Rinaldo Aparecido Mota
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Bioscience, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco (UFRPE), Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | - Marcos Amaku
- Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Thais Ferreira Feitosa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Institute of Paraíba (IFPB), Avenida Presidente Tancredo Neves, s/n, Jardim Sorrilândia, ZC, Sousa, Paraíba, 58800-970, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Longo Ribeiro Vilela
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), Patos, Paraíba, Brazil. .,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Institute of Paraíba (IFPB), Avenida Presidente Tancredo Neves, s/n, Jardim Sorrilândia, ZC, Sousa, Paraíba, 58800-970, Brazil.
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Seroprevalence and risk factors for Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in goats of Maranhão State, Brazil. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2021; 26:100634. [PMID: 34879945 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We estimated the seroprevalence and possible risk factors for neosporosis and toxoplasmosis in goats in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. In addition, the variables related to these animals and the management of the farm were investigated in terms of the significance of the associations. In total, 383 serum samples from goats, of both sexes and different ages, were collected from 15 farms in four municipalities. The indirect immunofluorescence test was used for antibody detection against Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii. The overall seroprevalence of N. caninum in goats was 26.4% (101/382; IC 95% 22.3-31.1), and 114 out of 383 serum samples were T. gondii-seropositive (29.8%, IC 95% 25.4-34.5). In addition, the seroprevalence of coinfection of T. gondii and N. caninum in goats was 8.6% (33/382; IC 95% 6.2-11.8). The risk factors significantly associated with the seroprevalence of N. caninum were age, type of sheepfold floor, rearing system, feeding, pasture area cultivated, cats having access to the feed deposits, worming, slaughter place of the animals, history of abortion and the presence of dogs and cats. Regarding the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection, age, category, presence of other species and purpose of breeding were the risk factors. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the seroprevalence and risk factors for N. caninum and T. gondii in goats in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, which provides basic data for the implementation of strategies and control measures against neosporosis and toxoplasmosis.
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Steffen KD, Gos ML, Gortari L, Arias RO, Venturini MC, Moré G. Eleven years of Toxoplasma gondii serological follow-up in a goat herd and association of toxoplasmosis with reproductive losses. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2021; 25:100599. [PMID: 34474792 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is considered one of the most important causes of abortion in small ruminants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between Toxoplasma gondii antibody titres and reproductive losses over an 11 year period in a goat farm located in Buenos Aires province, Argentina. Blood samples were obtained from 85 goats, representing three breeds, during the last third of gestation (n = 165 gestations), in consecutive pregnancies (2008-2019), and from 51 goats during kidding to analyze seroconversion. Serum was evaluated by IFAT with T. gondii antigen, using 1:100 dilution as the cut-off titre and processed to end titre. An overall reproductive loss of 31% (51/165) was detected, including 16.4% (27/165) abortions and 14.6% (24/165) perinatal deaths. The seropositivity to T. gondii was 100% (85/85) with all animals positive in successive samplings and, therefore, considered chronically infected. Antibody titres showed average values greater than 1100 in each year and breed group. Differences in antibody levels were associated with breed and were lower in those that were predominately Creole and higher in those that were predominately Saanen. Seroconversion was detected in 16.2% (6/37) and 57.1% (8/14) of goats from the Creole and Sannen breed groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in the antibody titre average between goats with reproductive losses and those with healthy kids, although the goats with perinatal deaths had a significantly higher titre average. These results suggest reinfection or reactivation, although no association with reproductive losses was observed. Higher antibody titres were associated with perinatal deaths. The high T. gondii antibody titres in a farm with 100% seroprevalence did not allow for association with reproductive losses, particularly abortion, to be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- K D Steffen
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science-La Plata National University, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Animal Production Department, Faculty of Agrarian and Forest Sciences-La Plata National University, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M L Gos
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science-La Plata National University, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - L Gortari
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - R O Arias
- Animal Production Department, Faculty of Agrarian and Forest Sciences-La Plata National University, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M C Venturini
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science-La Plata National University, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G Moré
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science-La Plata National University, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Hasan T, Mannan A, Hossain D, Rekha A, Hossan MM, Alim MA, Uddin AHMM. Molecular detection of Toxoplasma gondii in aborted fetuses of goats in Chattogram, Bangladesh. Vet World 2021; 14:2386-2391. [PMID: 34840458 PMCID: PMC8613768 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.2386-2391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that is responsible for the major cause of congenital diseases, abortion, and stillbirth in humans and farm animals. Primary infection in pregnant goats due to T. gondii leads to abortion and significant economic losses in the livestock industry. Moreover, very few studies have been performed for the identification of T. gondii from aborted fetuses of goats. The study was conducted for the molecular identification of Toxoplasma gondii from aborted fetuses of goats in Chattogram, Bangladesh. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty aborted fetuses of goats were collected from 52 farms in the study area. A nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay targeting the B1 gene was performed, and a positive sample yield of 197 bp amplified DNA products consistent with T. gondii. RESULTS The overall prevalence of toxoplasmosis in the aborted fetus of goats was 35%. Heart muscle, liver, brain, and placenta showed positive PCR results. The risk factors related to the does age, presence of cats in farms, and aborted fetus age were found to be statistically significant (p<0.05). Our results showed that T. gondii is a major possible causal factor for abortion and reproductive failure in goats. The high prevalence of T. gondii infection in aborted fetuses of goats revealed that T. gondii could be imperative in causing reproductive failure in goats. CONCLUSION Active or congenital toxoplasmosis was shown by the presence of T. gondii in fetal tissues, which is a matter of concern as this parasite has zoonotic significance and causes economic hazards to the livestock industry by causing various reproductive problems. Therefore, proper control measures and strategies are needed to reduce the rate of abortion in goats, ultimately saving the livestock industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanjila Hasan
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram 4225, Bangladesh
| | - Abdul Mannan
- Teaching and Training Pet Hospital and Research Center, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram 4225, Bangladesh
| | - Delower Hossain
- Department of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
| | - Azizunnesa Rekha
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram 4225, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Monir Hossan
- Upazila Livestock Office, Department of Livestock Services, Farmgate, Dhaka 1215, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Abdul Alim
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram 4225, Bangladesh
| | - AHM Musleh Uddin
- Department of Surgery and Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet 3100, Bangladesh
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Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among animals in Algeria: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 74:101603. [PMID: 33385968 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2020.101603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite that can infect all warm-blooded animals. It is responsible for considerable economic losses in some regions and farming systems. This review aims to synthesize current findings on the prevalence and risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in animal species in Algeria. It was performed according to the recommendations of the PRISMA guideline. A total of 14 papers from 1955 to 2020 were eligible to be included in this systematic review and meta-analysis study including a number of 10,187 animals of which 2594 were positive cases (25.46 %) (24.62-26.31 %, 95 %CI). Prevalence of Toxoplasma-infection was 20.04 % in cattle, 22.57 % in sheep, 33.61 % in goats, 28.17 % in horses, 30 % in donkeys, 70.31 % in stray cats, 14.57 % in local rabbits, 30.47 % in dogs and 50.70 % in poultry farms. Adult animals and females were most infected. The highest prevalences were reported in stray cats and poultry. Rabbits were the least infected. This analysis showed a trend of increasing infection since 2015 (R² = 0.129, p > 0.05) which requires further studies to provide better prevention strategies.
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Maia MO, Maia MO, Silva ARSD, Gomes AAD, Aguiar DMD, Pacheco RDC, Costa AJD, Santos-Doni TRD. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in sheep intended for human consumption in the Rondônia state, Western Brazilian Amazon. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 74:101599. [PMID: 33260021 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2020.101599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to carry out a seroepidemiological study of anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies in serum samples from sheep intended for human consumption in the Rondônia state, in the Western Brazilian Amazon, and identify possible risk factors associated with seropositivity. The analysis of the 616 sheep serum samples revealed animal-level seroprevalence of T. gondii in the order of 52.4 % and of N. caninum of 60.6 %. Prevalence of co-infections was 33.4 %. The herd-level seroprevalence was 100 % for both the parasites. Applying of multivariate logistic regression analysis, test of the association between seroprevalence of T. gondii infection and the potential predictors showed that feed, fetal malformation, abortion, neurological problems (lambs), presence of rodents were the significant (P < 0.05) predictors. The variables presence of rodents, cats, wild animals and main activity showed statistical association (P < 0.05) with the seroprevalence of N. caninum. Due to the high prevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum found in this study, the absence of specific slaughterhouses for sheep and raw or undercooked sheep meat for human consumption we concluded that sheep can represent an important source of infection for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maerle Oliveira Maia
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias (PPGVET) da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária (FAVET) da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Moura de Aguiar
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias (PPGVET) da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária (FAVET) da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | - Richard de Campos Pacheco
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias (PPGVET) da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária (FAVET) da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | | | - Thaís Rabelo Dos Santos-Doni
- Instituto de Ciências Agrárias da Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri (UFVJM), Unaí, MG, Brazil.
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Arefkhah N, Sarkari B, Asgari Q, Moshfe A, Khalafi MH, Mohammadpour I. Molecular Genotyping of Toxoplasma gondii in Sheep Aborted Fetuses Reveals Predominance of Type I Infection in Southwest of Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 15:374-382. [PMID: 33082802 PMCID: PMC7548476 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v15i3.4202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Background We aimed to detect Toxoplasma gondii in ovine aborted fetuses and evaluate its genetic variations in the southwest of Iran. Methods This cross-sectional study was performed on 100 aborted ovine fetuses collected from the different region of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province, Iran, in lambing season during 2017 and 2018. DNA was extracted from the brain samples of all of the aborted fetuses and PCR amplified, targeting a 529 bp repetitive element gene of T. gondii. Moreover, to find out the heterogeneity of the positive samples, PCR-DNA amplification of the two main genetic markers, B1 and GRA6, of T. gondii were performed. Nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were performed, using the BLAST program and MEGA-X software. Results The 529 bp gene of T. gondii was detected in 2 out of 100 (2%) of the ovine aborted samples. The sequences analysis of GRA6 and B1 genes revealed that both isolates from the aborted fetuses of sheep belonged to type I of T. gondii. Intra-divergence was more seen in GRA6 gene whereas less divergence was observed in B1 gene. Conclusion Congenital infection with Type I of T. gondii during the neonatal period is associated with abortion in ovine. Evaluation of more aborted samples from broader geographical areas is needed to elucidate the molecular epidemiology and also the genotypes of T. gondii associated with abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasir Arefkhah
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Bahador Sarkari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Qasem Asgari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Abdolali Moshfe
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | | | - Iraj Mohammadpour
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Seroepidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii in small ruminants in Northwest Ethiopia. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 22:100456. [PMID: 33308719 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This cross-sectional study with a cluster random sampling method was undertaken from November 2018 to May 2019 to estimate the prevalence and assess the potential risk factors of T. gondii seropositivity, and to assess the association of the T. gondii seropositivity with reproductive losses in small ruminants in Northwest Ethiopia. A total of 576 blood samples from 135 small ruminant flocks were collected and assayed for T. gondii IgG antibodies using the Toxo-latex slide agglutination test. A questionnaire survey was also conducted to gather information on the potential risk factors of T. gondii seropositivity and on the status of reproductive losses in the small ruminant flocks. The study demonstrated a high flock and animal level T. gondii seroprevalence of 96.3% (95% CI: 91% - 98%) and 70.48% (95% CI: 68% - 79%), respectively. Mixed effect logistic regression analysis of the potential risk factors showed that the odds of seropositive for T. gondii was significantly higher in sheep (OR = 1.7, 95%CI: 1.19-2.46) than in goats, in adult (OR = 1.6, 95%, CI: 1.11-2.31) than in young, in the presence of cats (OR = 2, 95%CI:1.32-3.04) than in the absence of cats, in the lack of knowledge on the role of cats as a pathogen source than knowing it (OR = 1.82, 95% CI:1.21-2.77). The study also showed that the likelihoods of experiencing the abortion, neonatal death and weak birth in the previous one year in T. gondii seropositive flocks were 20.76 (95% CI: 2.2-195.1, p < 0.001), 8.90 (95% CI: 1.99-83.0, p = 0.021) and 9.33 (95% CI: 1.1-86.2, p = 0.019) times more than the seronegative flocks, respectively. In conclusion, this study revealed high flock and animal level seroprevalence of T. gondii in the small ruminant population in northwest Ethiopia, suggesting that lamb and goat might be a source of this pathogen for human infection if their infected meat is consumed undercooked or uncooked. Besides, the observed association of T. gondii seropositivity with reproductive losses may suggest the economic importance of the pathogen for the small ruminant producers. Therefore, it warrants control attention to reduce its economic and public health burden in the study areas. Further works on the economic impacts, bioassay, isolation, and genetic characterization of the pathogen are suggested.
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Dubey JP, Murata FHA, Cerqueira-Cézar CK, Kwok OCH, Su C. Economic and public health importance of Toxoplasma gondii infections in sheep: 2009-2020. Vet Parasitol 2020; 286:109195. [PMID: 32979682 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, diagnosis, control, and genetic diversity of T. gondii in sheep in the past decade. There is debate and uncertainty concerning repeat congenital infection as evidenced by finding T. gondii DNA in progeny of chronically infected sheep. However, there is no concrete evidence that T. gondii is the cause of repeated abortions in sheep. Recent data concerning pathogenesis of abortion in acutely infected sheep are reviewed. PCR-RFLP typing of T. gondii DNA derived from viable T. gondii isolates or tissues of infected sheep revealed low genetic diversity in sheep in Europe, Africa, Asia and North America but high diversity in South America. This review will be of interest to biologists, parasitologists, veterinarians, and public health workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Dubey
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA.
| | - F H A Murata
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - C K Cerqueira-Cézar
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - O C H Kwok
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - C Su
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-0845, USA
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Dubey J, Murata F, Cerqueira-Cézar C, Kwok O, Su C. WITHDRAWN: Economic and public health importance of Toxoplasma gondii infections in sheep: the last decade. Vet Parasitol X 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vpoa.2020.100028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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Dubey JP, Murata FHA, Cerqueira-Cézar CK, Kwok OCH. Public health and economic importance of Toxoplasma gondii infections in goats: The last decade. Res Vet Sci 2020; 132:292-307. [PMID: 32711218 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. Toxoplasmosis in goats continues to be of public health and economic concern. The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and genetic diversity of T. gondii in goats in the past decade. There is debate and uncertainty regarding excretion of T. gondii in milk and the ingestion of raw milk as sources of T. gondii infection for humans. Toxoplasmosis can cause abortion and deaths even in adult goats. PCR-RFLP typing of T. gondii DNA derived from viable T. gondii isolates has revealed genetic diversity in goats in North and South America. The significance of T. gondii isolates in domestic goats usually associated with wildlife in USA is discussed. This review will be of interest to biologists, parasitologists, veterinarians, and public health workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Dubey
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA.
| | - F H A Murata
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - C K Cerqueira-Cézar
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - O C H Kwok
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
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Investigation of Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Aborted Fetuses of Sheep Using PCR: A Study in North Khorasan Province, Iran. Vet Med Int 2020; 2020:7913912. [PMID: 32637063 PMCID: PMC7322599 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7913912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic obligate intracellular protozoan parasite that infects warm-blooded animals as well as humans worldwide. The purpose of this study was to delineate the prevalence of Toxoplasma infection in aborted fetuses of sheep in North Khorasan province, Iran. Three hundred and ninety-nine samples of the liver (133 samples), placenta (133 samples), and brain (133 samples) from 133 aborted fetuses of sheep were collected from 2015 to 2017. The ages of aborted fetuses were higher than 120 days' gestational age in this study. According to the samples, sixteen out of 133 aborted fetuses of sheep were infected with T. gondii. Toxoplasma DNA was found in the placenta (68.75%) and liver (31.25%) samples of infected fetuses using the PCR method. The highest and lowest rates of Toxoplasma infection were observed during 2016 and 2017, respectively. Shirvan and Faruj provinces were recognized as the two most infected districts among others. There was a significant difference between the year and abortion rate in sheep due to infection by the Toxoplasma parasite (P < 0.05). Furthermore, no significant difference between the prevalence of T. gondii infection and aborted fetuses was seen (P > 0.05) in different areas. According to the present study, T. gondii infection can be one of the causes of fetus abortion of sheep in North Khorasan province, Iran.
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Karshima SN, Karshima MN, Karaye GP, Oziegbe SD. Toxoplasma gondii infections in birds, companion, food and recreational animals in Nigeria: A systematic review and meta-analysis. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 21:100418. [PMID: 32862897 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan pathogen of zoonotic and economic importance with a global distribution. The pathogen is associated with abortion, stillbirth, neonatal mortalities and mummification in sheep and goats which may also serve as sources of human infections. In pregnant women, the parasite undergoes intrauterine transmission to cause neonatal complications like miscarriage, chorioretinitis, hydrocephalus, cerebral calcification and foetal death. Here, we determine the prevalence and geographical distribution of T. gondii infections in Nigeria using the PRISMA protocol. Prevalence estimates (PE) and heterogeneity were determined by the random-effects model and the Cochran's Q-test respectively. Twenty-eight articles identified, reported 2311 positive cases of Toxoplasma gondii from a total of 9847 animals examined across 15 Nigerian States. Overall PE was 20.70% (95% CI: 15.05-27.78) with a range of 10.18% (95% CI: 2.66-31.98) to 94.00% (95% CI: 89.73-96.56) across sub-groups. PEs varied significantly (p < .05) across host species, with a range of 4.06% (95% CI: 2.47-6.87) to 40.65% (95% CI: 19.88-65.40). PEs in females (22.65%, 95% CI: 15.78-31.72) was significantly higher (p < .05) than that in males (18.97%, 95% CI: 12.78-27.22), while those for adult and young animals were 20.23% (95% CI: 13.42-29.33) and 18.96% (95% CI: 11.11-30.45) respectively. The majority of the studies were published from the south-western region. Toxoplasma gondii infection is prevalent among birds, companion, food and recreational animals from Nigeria. Integrated control strategies including adequate sanitation, cat movement restrictions, public enlightenment are recommended to curtail the menace of T. gondii in animals and its public health consequences in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Ngutor Karshima
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Jos, PMB, 2084 Jos, Nigeria.
| | - Magdalene Nguvan Karshima
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria
| | - Gloria Pisha Karaye
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, University of Jos, PMB, 2084 Jos, Nigeria
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Tesfaye A, Sahele M, Sori T, Guyassa C, Garoma A. Seroprevalence and associated risk factors for chlamydiosis, coxiellosis and brucellosis in sheep and goats in Borana pastoral area, southern Ethiopia. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:145. [PMID: 32434500 PMCID: PMC7238558 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02360-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abortion is considered an important disease problem of small ruminants in Borana pastoral area. A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of chlamydiosis, coxiellosis (Q-fever) and brucellosis in small ruminants in selected districts of Borana zone. RESULTS A total of 506 sheep and goats were tested using serological tests. Fifty (9.88%; 95% CI: 7.42, 12.82), 144 (28.46%; 95% CI: 24.56, 32.61) and none (0.00%; 95% CI: 0.00, 0.59) of them were positive for chlamydiosis, coxiellosis and brucellosis, respectively. History of abortion was recorded in 136 (32.00%; CI: 27.59, 36.67) of sheep and goats in the study area. The logistic regression analysis, however, showed that statistically significant difference ccurred among districts and between the species of small ruminants. The prevalence odd of antibodies against C. abortus was significantly lower in Miyo, Dire and Teltelle districts compared to Dillo. The odd of infection with this bacterium was lower in sheep than goats. Similarly the odd of infection with C. burnettii was significantly higher in Dillo district than the rest of the districts studied, higher in goats than sheep and higher in adult animals than young ones. CONCLUSION High prevalence of abortion is observed in sheep and goats in the study area. High seropositivity of C. burnetii and C. abortus in both sheep and goats tested implies risks of human infection by both diseases. Thus, attention needs to be paid to further study of both diseases in animals and humans in the area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asamenew Tesfaye
- National Anima Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center (NAHDIC), P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
| | - Mesfin Sahele
- National Anima Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center (NAHDIC), P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
| | - Teshale Sori
- Collage of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Addis Ababa University, P. O. Box, 34 Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Chala Guyassa
- National Anima Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center (NAHDIC), P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Garoma
- National Anima Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center (NAHDIC), P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
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Molecular Diagnosis and Pathological Study of Toxoplasma gondii in Aborted Caprine and Ovine Fetuses in Borderline of Iran-Iraq. Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:187-192. [PMID: 31797193 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-019-00147-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection with the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is widely prevalent in animals and humans. In goats and sheep this infection has a high economic impact as it causes abortions and lamb losses. Although there are several studies reporting seroprevalence in small ruminants in Iran, molecular-based information is scarce. PURPOSE This study aimed to screen caprine and ovine aborted fetuses for T. gondii infection by PCR and histopathology. METHODS Brains of 121 aborted fetuses (10 caprine and 111 ovine) were collected from different parts of the Kordestan province, bordering with Iraq. Gestational age and the general status of each fetus such as freshness, autolysis, mummification and presence of macroscopic lesions in the fetus and foetal membranes was recorded. Individual brain tissues of fetuses were subjected to nested-PCR targeting the B1 gene, and histopathological sections prepared from brains were examined microscopically. RESULTS PCR results revealed T. gondii-associated abortion in one caprine and nine ovine fetuses (8.3%). Microscopically, pathological lesions included non-purulent meningitis associated with gliosis, focal necrosis, and occasionally tissue cyst. CONCLUSION This paper reports for the first time T. gondii-associated abortion in goats in Iran. As organs from aborted fetuses do not necessarily show lesions, molecular confirmation is the unique diagnostic method and should be used in situations of an abortion epidemic.
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Deyhimi MS, Yousefidarani H, Soleimanifard S. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Cattle and Sheep in Isfahan, Iran. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EPIDEMIOLOGIC RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.15171/ijer.2019.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite which has the potential to infect all warm-blooded animals. Sheep and cattle play a main role in the economy and their infection to T. gondii, besides economic losses, can cause the infection of humans through the consumption of raw meat and other products. In this study, we aimed to survey the prevalence of T. gondii in the livestock in Isfahan, Iran. Methods: A total of 384 samples including 144 sheep and 130 bovine serum samples from Isfahan and 50 sheep and 60 bovine serum samples from Kashan slaughterhouses were tested for the presence of T. gondii antibody using the indirect immunofluorescence method. Results: In general, the antibody was found in 27.31% of sheep and 22.63% of cattle at a dilution of ≥1:200. In detail, 26.15% of bovine and 26.17% of sheep serums from Isfahan and 15% of bovine and 22% of sheep serums from Kashan were seropositive. Conclusion: The study revealed that sheep and cattle can be a significant intermediate host for the spread of the disease in this region (Isfahan province) and the health and livestock authorities in the province should be given priority in improving animal welfare and nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitra Sadat Deyhimi
- School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences & Health Services, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hossein Yousefidarani
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences & Health Services, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Simindokht Soleimanifard
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences & Health Services, Isfahan, Iran
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Maia A, Silva M, Brandão F, Souza-Fabjan J, Faria L, Côrtes L, Facó O, Fonseca J. Epidemiological survey and risk factors associated with hydrometra in dairy goat herds. Small Rumin Res 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2019.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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20
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Stelzer S, Basso W, Benavides Silván J, Ortega-Mora L, Maksimov P, Gethmann J, Conraths F, Schares G. Toxoplasma gondii infection and toxoplasmosis in farm animals: Risk factors and economic impact. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2019; 15:e00037. [PMID: 32095611 PMCID: PMC7033994 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2019.e00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Felids, including domestic cats, are definitive hosts that can shed oocysts with their feces. In addition to infections that occur by accidental oral uptake of food or water contaminated with oocysts, it is assumed that a large proportion of affected humans may have become infected by consuming meat or other animal products that contained infective parasitic stages of T. gondii. Since farm animals represent a direct source of infection for humans, but also a possible reservoir for the parasite, it is important to control T. gondii infections in livestock. Moreover, T. gondii may also be pathogenic to livestock where it could be responsible for considerable economic losses in some regions and particular farming systems, e.g. in areas where the small ruminant industry is relevant. This review aims to summarize actual knowledge on the prevalence and effects of infections with T. gondii in the most important livestock species and on the effects of toxoplasmosis on livestock. It also provides an overview on potential risk factors favoring infections of livestock with T. gondii. Knowledge on potential risk factors is prerequisite to implement effective biosecurity measures on farms to prevent T. gondii infections. Risk factors identified by many studies are cat-related, but also those associated with a potential contamination of fodder or water, and with access to a potentially contaminated environment. Published information on the costs T. gondii infections cause in livestock production, is scarce. The most recent peer reviewed reports from Great Britain and Uruguay suggest annual cost of about 5-15 million US $ per country. Since these estimates are outdated, future studies are needed to estimate the present costs due to toxoplasmosis in livestock. Further, the fact that T. gondii infections in livestock may affect human health needs to be considered and the respective costs should also be estimated, but this is beyond the scope of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Stelzer
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - W. Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - J. Benavides Silván
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León) Grulleros, 24346 León, Spain
| | - L.M. Ortega-Mora
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - P. Maksimov
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - J. Gethmann
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - F.J. Conraths
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - G. Schares
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
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Benlakehal A, Miroud K, Djeghim H, Kaidi R. Serological survey for anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in sheep of northeastern Algeria. Trop Anim Health Prod 2019; 51:2227-2233. [PMID: 31134558 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-019-01921-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Although T. gondii is of considerable both public and veterinary importance worldwide, studies on its existence in sheep in Algeria, either through serology and or parasitology is scarce. To this end, a cross-sectional study was carried out in Tébessa, an Algerian eastern province, to, firstly, investigate the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in sheep and, secondly, determine the potential risk factors that may be associated with seropositivity. A total of 376 serum samples from 39 flocks, collected between September 2015 and October 2017, were tested for anti-T.gondii antibodies via the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique (ELISA). A T. gondii seroprevalence of 35.37% (95% CI 30.54-40.21%) was recorded, and 84.61% (95% CI 73.29-95.94%) of the flocks sampled had, at least, one seropositive animal. The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that abortion during the latest pregnancy (OR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.02-2.44; p = 0.05), presence of goats in sheep flocks (OR = 1.76; 95% CI 1.04-2.98; p = 0.037), and the sampling period were the variables significantly associated with seropositivity. The present study reports, for the first time in this part of Algeria, the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection and bears out the highly dissemination capacity of the parasite. This is of a great importance for veterinarians in charge of veterinary public health, veterinary practitioners, and breeders in order to improve the control and prophylactic measures of toxoplasmosis. Nevertheless, further study should be conducted to explore the impact of the parasite on public and animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar Benlakehal
- Epidemiological Surveillance Laboratory, Health, Production and Reproduction, Experimentation and Cell Therapy of Domestic and Wild Animals, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Chadli Bendjedid University, 36000, El-Tarf, Algeria.
- Department of Natural and Life Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences and Natural and Life Sciences, Larbi Tebessi University, 12002, Tebessa, Algeria.
| | - Kamel Miroud
- Epidemiological Surveillance Laboratory, Health, Production and Reproduction, Experimentation and Cell Therapy of Domestic and Wild Animals, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Chadli Bendjedid University, 36000, El-Tarf, Algeria
| | - Hanène Djeghim
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry Plant Biotechnology, Constantine, Algeria
- Health and Biotechnology Division, National Center for Biotechnology Research , Constantine, Algeria
| | - Rachid Kaidi
- Veterinary Institute, Saad Dahleb University, Soumâa Road, 09000, Blida, Algeria
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Kledmanee K, Liabsuetrakul T, Sretrirutchai S. Seropositivities against brucellosis, coxiellosis, and toxoplasmosis and associated factors in pregnant women with adverse pregnancy outcomes: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216652. [PMID: 31071166 PMCID: PMC6508713 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Brucellosis, coxiellosis, and toxoplasmosis can be transmitted from infected ruminants to pregnant women and may induce adverse pregnancy outcomes; however, there are to date few studies. This study aimed to examine the seropositivities of immunoglobulin G (IgG) against those three pathogens among pregnant women with adverse pregnancy outcomes, and to explore the associated factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in southern Thailand, where goat production is common. A total of 105 pregnant Thai women who had adverse pregnancy outcomes and serum samples collected at first antenatal care visit before their 28th gestational week from June 2015 to June 2016 were included. The seropositivities of IgG anti-Brucella abortus, Toxoplasma gondii, and Coxiella burnetii antibodies were tested by using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Associated factors with seropositivity were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. Results Most women were Muslim aged 20–34 years and 32.4% had a prior history of one or more adverse pregnancy outcomes. One-third of the women had been exposed to goats or raw goat products. Of the 105 serum samples, the seropositivity of anti-T. gondii IgG was highest (33/105, 31.4%), followed by anti-C. burnetii IgG (2/105, 1.9%), and anti-B. abortus IgG (1/105, 1.0%), respectively. None of the pregnant women were found to be co-seropositive for those three pathogens. Conclusions One-third of women with adverse pregnancy outcomes showed positive antibodies for toxoplasmosis, coxiellosis and brucellosis. A dose-response relationship between seropositivity of anti-T. gondii IgG and age was noticed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kan Kledmanee
- Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Tippawan Liabsuetrakul
- Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
- * E-mail:
| | - Somporn Sretrirutchai
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
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Mesquita E, Oliveira J, Silva G, Torres S, Oliveira A, Silva Júnior V, Mota R, Amorim M. Imunodetecção de Toxoplasma gondii em tecido placentário de cabras naturalmente infectadas. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-9797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO A imuno-histoquímica (IHQ) é considerada uma ferramenta rápida e precisa para a identificação de protozoários, como Toxoplasma gondii, em tecidos fetais e placentários. Neste estudo foi avaliada a imunodetecção de Toxoplasma gondii em tecido placentário de cabras naturalmente infectadas. Foram coletadas e analisadas 80 amostras de placentas de cabras procedentes de único rebanho com sorologia positiva para T. gondii na técnica de ELISA. Na histopatologia, 27/80 amostras apresentaram lesões sugestivas de infecção por protozoários. Após a avaliação histopatológica, procedeu-se à realização da técnica de imuno-histoquímica, obtendo-se 85,2% (23/27) de amostras com marcação positiva. A imunodetecção ocorreu no epitélio de revestimento das vilosidades coriônicas e foi classificada de acordo com o grau de intensidade da imunomarcação. Também foi evidenciada imunomarcação no interior dos vasos sanguíneos fetais em 8,69% (2/23) das amostras. Este estudo demonstrou que a técnica de IHQ se comportou como uma ferramenta valiosa no diagnóstico da infeção por T. gondii em tecido placentário de cabras naturalmente infectadas e complementou, de forma decisiva, o diagnóstico, além de agregar maior valor aos resultados obtidos nas análises histopatológica e sorológica.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - R.A. Mota
- Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Brazil
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Al Hamada A, Habib I, Barnes A, Robertson I. Risk factors associated with seropositivity to Toxoplasma among sheep and goats in Northern Iraq. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2019; 15:100264. [PMID: 30929941 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Serum samples from 423 small ruminants (335 sheep and 97 goats) from 72 farms in 6 districts in the province of Dohuk, north Iraq, were tested for the presence of antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii using a latex agglutination test (Latex) and an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). When the test results were interpreted in parallel, 42.1% (95% confidence interval (CI): 36.7, 47.7) of sheep and 36.1% (95% CI: 26.6, 46.5) of goats were found to have antibodies against Toxoplasma. A multivariable logistic regression model was developed to determine the risk factors for Toxoplasma seropositivity in small ruminant flocks. Factors which increased the risk of infection included the presence of cats near the feed of animals (Odds ratio (OR) = 6.3; 95% CI 1.6, 24.6) and a history of abortions in sheep in the preceding 12 months (OR = 13.4; 95% CI 2.1; 86.7). For every ten goats aborting in the preceding 12 months the odds of seropositivity increased significantly (OR = 6.7; 95% CI 1.3; 32.9). Results of the regression model indicate that for every 1000 Iraqi Dinars (~0.85 USD) spent by the farmers on prophylactic treatment in their flocks the odds of Toxoplasma seropositivity decreased significantly (OR = 0.94; 95% CI 0.90, 0.98). This study contributes to the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis in small ruminants in northern Iraq.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Al Hamada
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia; College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul, Mosul, Iraq
| | - Ihab Habib
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia; High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Anne Barnes
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Ian Robertson
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia; China-Australia Joint Research and Training Center for Veterinary Epidemiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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Selim A, Elhaig M, Moawed S. A Serological Survey of Four Abortifacient Infectious Agents among Small Ruminant in Egypt. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.3923/ajava.2018.114.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Elahi E, Abid M, Zhang L, Alugongo GM. The use of wastewater in livestock production and its socioeconomic and welfare implications. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:17255-17266. [PMID: 28555394 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-9263-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Although epidemiological studies have found a significant amount of toxins in surface water, a complex link between animals' access to wastewater and associated animal and human welfare losses needs to be explored. The scarcity of safe water has put stress on the utilization of wastewater for crops and livestock production. The access of animals to wastewater is related to the emergence of dangerous animal's diseases, hampering productivity, increasing economic losses, and risking human health along the food chain. This review explores use of wastewater for agriculture, epidemiological evidence of microbial contamination in wastewater, and animal and human welfare disruption due to the use of wastewater for crop and livestock production. More specifically, the review delves into animals exposure to wastewater for bathing, drinking, or grazing on a pasture irrigated with contaminated water and related animal and human welfare losses. We included some scientific articles and reviews published from 1970 to 2017 to support our rational discussions. The selected articles dealt exclusively with animals direct access to wastewater via bathing and indirect access via grazing on pasture irrigated with contaminated wastewater and their implication for animal and human welfare losses. The study also identified that some policy options such as wastewater treatments, constructing wastewater stabilization ponds, controlling animal access to wastewater, and dissemination of necessary information to ultimate consumers related to the source of agricultural produce and wastewater use in animal and crop production are required to protect the human and animal health and welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Elahi
- Department of Agricultural Economics, College of Economics and Management, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - Muhammad Abid
- Centre for Climate Research and Development (CCRD), COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Park Road, Chak Shahzad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Liqin Zhang
- Department of Agricultural Economics, College of Economics and Management, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Gibson Maswayi Alugongo
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China
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Li F, Wang SP, Wang CJ, He SC, Wu X, Liu GH. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in goats in Hunan province, China. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 23:44. [PMID: 27762212 PMCID: PMC5075832 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2016053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are prevalent in animals and humans worldwide. In the present investigation, the seroprevalence of T. gondii in goats was investigated in Hunan province, subtropical China between March 2014 and December 2015. A total of 1,028 serum samples collected from 14 administrative regions of Hunan province were evaluated by the indirect hemagglutination test (IHAT) for the detection of specific antibodies. Antibodies to T. gondii were detected in 124 serum samples (12%). The T. gondii seroprevalence ranged from 1.7% to 19% among different regions in subtropical China, and the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.01). The results of the present survey indicated that T. gondii infection is prevalent in goats in Hunan, which poses a potential risk for human infection with T. gondii in this province.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen Li
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan province 410013, PR China - College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan province 410128, PR China - Hunan Co-Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, Changsha, Hunan province 410128, PR China
| | - Shi-Ping Wang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan province 410013, PR China
| | - Chang-Jian Wang
- Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center of Hunan province, 410001, PR China
| | - Shi-Cheng He
- Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center of Hunan province, 410001, PR China
| | - Xiang Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan province 410128, PR China
| | - Guo-Hua Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan province 410128, PR China - Hunan Co-Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, Changsha, Hunan province 410128, PR China
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Klauck V, Pazinato R, Radavelli WM, Custódio E, Bianchi AE, Camillo G, Cezar AS, Vogel FF, Tonin AA, Ferreira R, Stefani LM, Da Silva AS. Toxoplasma gondii infection in dairy ewes: Vertical transmission and influence on milk production and reproductive performance. Microb Pathog 2016; 99:101-105. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2016.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Hireche S, Ababneh MMK, Bouaziz O, Boussena S. Seroprevalence and molecular characterization of Chlamydia abortus in frozen fetal and placental tissues of aborting ewes in northeastern Algeria. Trop Anim Health Prod 2015; 48:255-62. [PMID: 26526957 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-015-0944-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Enzootic abortion of ewes is one of the most serious health problems in sheep flocks worldwide. It has a significant economic impact because abortion, decrease in milk production and weak lambs. Besides, the bacteria is zoonotic. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with Chlamydia abortus infection in 552 ewes in Constantine using a C. abortus-specific indirect ELISA kit. Chlamydial DNA was investigated in ten ovine fetuses and eight placentas using PCR- restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and DNA sequencing. The study concluded that 7.2 % of ewes were seropositive and 33.3 % of sheep flocks had at least one seropositive ewe. Adjacent farmworker visits (OR = 7.667, 95 % CI (OR) = 2.307; 27.203) was defined as a risk factor. Deliveries of weak lambs (OR = 2.920, 95 % CI (OR) = 1.022; 8.342) and septicemia in lambs (OR = 9.971, 95 % CI (OR) = 2.383; 41.713) were significantly associated with chlamydial infection. PCR-RFLP analysis revealed positive signals to C. abortus in six fetuses and four placentas. Sequencing of the omp2 gene revealed that the Algerian strain is 96 % similar with C. abortus FAS strain. C. abortus plays a major role in abortion in northeastern Algeria. Appropriate control measures must be implemented to reduce economic losses and to avoid human contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Hireche
- Management of Animal Health and Productions Laboratory, Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University of Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria.
| | | | - Omar Bouaziz
- Management of Animal Health and Productions Laboratory, Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University of Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Sabrina Boussena
- Management of Animal Health and Productions Laboratory, Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University of Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria
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Guo M, Dubey JP, Hill D, Buchanan RL, Gamble HR, Jones JL, Pradhan AK. Prevalence and risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii infection in meat animals and meat products destined for human consumption. J Food Prot 2015; 78:457-76. [PMID: 25710166 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-14-328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that is responsible for approximately 24% of all estimated deaths attributed to foodborne pathogens in the United States. Human infection results from accidental ingestion of oocysts from the environment, in water, or on insufficiently washed produce or from consumption of raw or undercooked meat products that contain T. gondii tissue cysts. This review focused on studies of T. gondii in meat because many human T. gondii infections are acquired through consumption of raw or undercooked meat. Prevalence of T. gondii is higher in conventionally reared pigs, sheep, and poultry than in cattle and is greater in meat products from organic than from conventionally reared meat animals because of outdoor access, which poses substantially greater opportunities for exposure to infected rodents, wildlife, and oocyst-contaminated feed, water, or environmental surfaces. Risk factors related to T. gondii exposure for livestock include farm type, feed source, presence of cats, methods of rodent and bird control, methods of carcass handling, and water quality. This review serves as a useful resource and information repository for informing quantitative risk assessment studies for T. gondii infection in humans through meat consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Guo
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, USA
| | - Jitender P Dubey
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agriculture Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland 20705, USA
| | - Dolores Hill
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agriculture Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland 20705, USA
| | - Robert L Buchanan
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Center for Food Safety and Security Systems, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, USA
| | - H Ray Gamble
- Fellowships Office, National Academy of Sciences, Washington, DC 20001, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Jones
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30333, USA
| | - Abani K Pradhan
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Center for Food Safety and Security Systems, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, USA.
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Liu ZK, Li JY, Pan H. Seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infections in small ruminants in China. Prev Vet Med 2015; 118:488-92. [PMID: 25591976 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2014.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2014] [Revised: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Little information is available about the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infections in sheep and goats in China. In the present investigation, the seroprevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum infections in sheep and goats were investigated in Qinghai province, China between January 2012 and June 2013. A total of 1250 serum samples (600 sheep and 650 goats) collected from 8 administrative regions of Qinghai province, China were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of specific antibodies, and sera positive were subsequently confirmed with indirect fluorescent antibody test. Specific IgG against T. gondii were detected in 21.33% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.06-24.61%) (128/600) and 29.54% (95% CI: 26.03-33.05%) (192/650) and against N. caninum in 10.33% (95% CI: 7.9-12.77%) (62/600) and 7.23% (95% CI: 5.24-9.22%) (47/650) of the sheep and goats, respectively. The risk factors significantly associated with T. gondii and N. caninum seroprevalence were the presence of cats and dogs, the pasturing system, the herd size, the hygiene in the farms. The results of the present survey indicate that T. gondii and N. caninum infections are highly prevalent in sheep and goats in Qinghai province, China. This is the first time that antibodies to N. caninum have been detected in sheep and goats in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Kui Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan Province 410128, China; National and Provincial Union Engineering Research Center for the Veterinary Herbal medicine resources and initiative, Changsha, Hunan Province 410128, China; Hunan Agricultural University Animal Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Liuyang 410311, China.
| | - Jian-Yong Li
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of CAAS, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Hu Pan
- Lanzhou Institute of Animal Sciences and Pharmaceutics of CAAS, Lanzhou 730050, China
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Verhelst D, De Craeye S, Entrican G, Dorny P, Cox E. Parasite distribution and associated immune response during the acute phase of Toxoplasma gondii infection in sheep. BMC Vet Res 2014; 10:293. [PMID: 25511864 PMCID: PMC4279818 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-014-0293-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In many countries, Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a major cause of reproductive disorders and abortions in the sheep industry, and therefore responsible for important financial and economic losses. In addition, undercooked infected lamb is an important risk factor for human toxoplasmosis. In the present study, the initial phase of the infection was investigated: the parasite's entry site, the subsequent distribution of the parasite and the host-immune response. RESULTS Parasite DNA was already detected in the cranial small intestinal mucosa the first days after oral infection with T. gondii tissue cysts. Simultaneously, high IFN-gamma and IL-12 responses were induced mainly in the mesenteric lymph nodes. The emergence of IgG1 (at 8dpi), and IgG2 (at 11 dpi) was accompanied by a decrease or even disappearance of the IFN-gamma and IL-12 response in the Peyers' patches (PP), PBMC's and popliteal LN's. Meanwhile the parasite DNA could be recovered from most mucosal and systemic tissues to become undetectable in the small intestine, popliteal LN, PBMC and spleen 3 weeks pi. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that parasites enter the cranial small intestine the first days after infection and that after an increase the first two weeks after infection, the parasite DNA levels in the intestine drop below the detection limit three weeks after infection. This coincides with an increase in parastic-specific serum IgG1 and IgG2 and a decrease of the antigen-specific IFN-gamma response in PP, PBMC and popliteal LN. We suggest a role for IFN-gamma and IL-12 in controlling the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delfien Verhelst
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stéphane De Craeye
- National Reference Laboratory for Toxoplasmosis, Operational Direction Communicable and Infectious Diseases, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Gary Entrican
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Midlothian, Penicuik, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium. .,Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Eric Cox
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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Toxoplasma gondii infection among sheep and goats in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasitol Res 2014; 114:1-16. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-4176-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Ababneh HS, Ababneh MMK, Hananeh WM, Alsheyab FM, Jawasreh KI, Al-Gharaibeh MA, Ababneh MM. Molecular identification of chlamydial cause of abortion in small ruminants in Jordan. Trop Anim Health Prod 2014; 46:1407-12. [PMID: 25109376 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-014-0654-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydophila abortus (Ch. abortus) is the etiological agent of ovine enzootic abortion (OEA) and one of the most common infectious agents of abortion in small ruminants worldwide. RFLP-PCR analysis of the outer membrane protein gene (OMP2 gene) was used for diagnosis and characterization of chlamydial causes of abortion in small ruminants in Jordan. Sixty-six placental tissues and 15 vaginal swabs were collected from aborted ewes and does to identify cause of abortion in Jordan. Thirty-eight placental samples (58 %) and 13 vaginal swabs (87 %) were positive for chlamydial DNA. Shedding of bacteria in vaginal swabs was detected within 7 days after abortion. The results of this study showed that chlamydiosis is one of the important causes of abortion in small ruminants in Jordan. In addition, vaginal swab is an excellent sample for molecular diagnosis of chlamydiosis. DNA sequencing and RFLP analysis of the OMP2 reveal that all chlamydial cause of abortion in small ruminants in Jordan are due to Ch. abortus. While, Ch. pecorum was not detected in any sample. OMP2 gene of the isolated Jordanian strain was identical (100 %) to Ch. abortus FAS strain. In conclusion, Ch. abortus is an important cause of abortion in Jordan; vaginal swab within 7 days of abortion can be used for molecular diagnosis of chlamydiosis in small ruminants.
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Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with Chlamydophila spp. infection in ewes in the northeast of Algeria. Trop Anim Health Prod 2013; 46:467-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-013-0515-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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36
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Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with zoonotic parasitic infections in small ruminants in the Greek temperate environment. Parasitol Int 2013; 62:554-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2013.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Revised: 08/07/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Gebremedhin EZ, Agonafir A, Tessema TS, Tilahun G, Medhin G, Vitale M, Di Marco V. Some risk factors for reproductive failures and contribution of Toxoplasma gondii infection in sheep and goats of Central Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. Res Vet Sci 2013; 95:894-900. [PMID: 24011595 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2013.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2012] [Revised: 07/15/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive failure has a negative impact on animal production, health and welfare and ultimately rural economies. In Ethiopia, the factors affecting small ruminant reproductive efficiency are inadequately investigated. A cross-sectional survey was done from November, 2010 to May, 2011 to investigate risk factors of reproductive failures including Toxoplasma gondii infection. Analysis of 1372 sera (787 sheep and 585 goats) from 409 flocks using ELISA showed high flock (59.7%) and animal (31.8%) level T. gondii seroprevalence. An overall 24.9% (341/1372) annual abortion rate (19.6% in sheep and 32.0% in goats) was recorded. Animal level T. gondii seroprevalence was significantly associated with abortion in Ambo and Ada'a-Liben districts (Odds ratio [OR] = 2.31, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.42, 3.76; P = 0.001). Questionnaire survey on 199 households of Ambo, Ada'a-Liben and Fentale districts revealed high flock level abortion (57.5%), still birth (28.9%) and neonatal losses (47.9%), which are significantly different between study districts (P<0.001). Multivariable logistic regression model showed that species (goat), large flock size, pastoral and agro-pastoral production systems, drinking water from river and stagnant water bodies, grazing/browsing in plain land and extensive management were significant predictors of flock level reproductive failures. In the final Zero inflated Poisson regression model number of abortions was significantly higher in goat than in sheep flocks (Incidence risk ratio [IRR] = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.87; P = 0.012). It is also significantly higher in pastoral (IRR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.16, 2.83; P = 0.008) and agro-pastoral production systems (IRR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.32, 2.86; P = 0.001) than in sedentary production system. Prevention of toxoplasmosis, improved husbandry practices and further epidemiological studies to identify causes of reproductive failures are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endrias Zewdu Gebremedhin
- Department of Veterinary Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences Ambo University, P.O. Box 19, Ambo, Ethiopia.
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Andrade MMC, Carneiro M, Medeiros AD, Neto VA, Vitor RW. Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with ovine toxoplasmosis in Northeast Brazil. Parasite 2013; 20:20. [PMID: 23707895 PMCID: PMC3718521 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2013019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2012] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Serum samples of 930 sheep were tested by ELISA to assess the prevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies and to identify risk factors associated with the presence of toxoplasmosis in two regions of Rio Grande do Norte (Northeast Brazil), with different climatic conditions. The overall estimated prevalence was 22.1%, with 26.3% and 17.8% positive sheep in Leste Potiguar and Central Potiguar regions, respectively. Among the positive sheep, 18.1% had low-avidity IgG antibodies, suggesting the occurrence of recent toxoplasmosis. The risk factors for toxoplasmosis in sheep were: presence of cats (odds ratio (OR) = 1.55; confidence interval (CI) 95% = 1.11-2.16), age of the animals, with adults presenting a greater chance of infection (OR = 2.44; CI 95% = 1.58-3.75), and the use of running water (OR = 1.61; CI 95% = 1.25-2.09), characterizing the existence of transmission by sporulated oocysts of T. gondii in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena M. Clementino Andrade
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Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, UFMG, Belo Horizonte MG Brazil
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Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Centro de Biociências, UFRN Natal RN Brazil
| | - Mariangela Carneiro
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Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, UFMG, Belo Horizonte MG Brazil
| | - Andrea D. Medeiros
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Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Centro de Biociências, UFRN Natal RN Brazil
| | - Valter Andrade Neto
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Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Centro de Biociências, UFRN Natal RN Brazil
| | - Ricardo W.A. Vitor
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Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, UFMG, Belo Horizonte MG Brazil
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