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Bellinzona G, Nardi T, Castelli M, Batisti Biffignandi G, Adjou K, Betson M, Blanchard Y, Bujila I, Chalmers R, Davidson R, D'Avino N, Enbom T, Gomes J, Karadjian G, Klotz C, Östlund E, Plutzer J, Rimhanen-Finne R, Robinson G, Sannella AR, Sroka J, Stensvold CR, Troell K, Vatta P, Zalewska B, Bandi C, Sassera D, Cacciò SM. Comparative genomics of Cryptosporidium parvum reveals the emergence of an outbreak-associated population in Europe and its spread to the United States. Genome Res 2024; 34:877-887. [PMID: 38977307 DOI: 10.1101/gr.278830.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The zoonotic parasite Cryptosporidium parvum is a global cause of gastrointestinal disease in humans and ruminants. Sequence analysis of the highly polymorphic gp60 gene enabled the classification of C. parvum isolates into multiple groups (e.g., IIa, IIc, Id) and a large number of subtypes. In Europe, subtype IIaA15G2R1 is largely predominant and has been associated with many water- and food-borne outbreaks. In this study, we generated new whole-genome sequence (WGS) data from 123 human- and ruminant-derived isolates collected in 13 European countries and included other available WGS data from Europe, Egypt, China, and the United States (n = 72) in the largest comparative genomics study to date. We applied rigorous filters to exclude mixed infections and analyzed a data set from 141 isolates from the zoonotic groups IIa (n = 119) and IId (n = 22). Based on 28,047 high-quality, biallelic genomic SNPs, we identified three distinct and strongly supported populations: Isolates from China (IId) and Egypt (IIa and IId) formed population 1; a minority of European isolates (IIa and IId) formed population 2; and the majority of European (IIa, including all IIaA15G2R1 isolates) and all isolates from the United States (IIa) clustered in population 3. Based on analyses of the population structure, population genetics, and recombination, we show that population 3 has recently emerged and expanded throughout Europe to then, possibly from the United Kingdom, reach the United States, where it also expanded. The reason(s) for the successful spread of population 3 remain elusive, although genes under selective pressure uniquely in this population were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Bellinzona
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Tiago Nardi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Michele Castelli
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Karim Adjou
- UMR BIPAR, Anses, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, INRAE, École Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Martha Betson
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Yannick Blanchard
- Viral Genetics and Biosecurity Unit (GVB), French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (ANSES), 22440 Ploufragan, France
| | - Ioana Bujila
- Department of Microbiology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, SE-171 82 Solna, Sweden
| | - Rachel Chalmers
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Swansea SA2 8QA, United Kingdom
- Swansea Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | | | - Nicoletta D'Avino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Umbria e delle Marche, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Tuulia Enbom
- Animal Health Diagnostic Unit, Finnish Food Authority, FI-70210 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jacinto Gomes
- National Institute for Agricultural and Veterinary Research, 1300 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gregory Karadjian
- UMR BIPAR, Anses, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, INRAE, École Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Christian Klotz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Emma Östlund
- Swedish Veterinary Agency, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Judith Plutzer
- National Institute for Public Education, Budapest, 1007, Hungary
| | | | - Guy Robinson
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Swansea SA2 8QA, United Kingdom
- Swansea Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Rosa Sannella
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Jacek Sroka
- Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland
| | | | - Karin Troell
- Swedish Veterinary Agency, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Paolo Vatta
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbora Zalewska
- Veterinary Research Institute, Department of Food and Feed Safety, 621 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Claudio Bandi
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Sassera
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Simone M Cacciò
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
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Peñuelas Martinez M, Carmena D, Guzmán Herrador BR, Palau Miguel M, Saravia Campelli G, García Álvarez RM, Guerrero-Vadillo M, Dashti A, Köster PC, Guevara Alemany E, Simón Soria F, Fuentes Corripio I, Varela Martínez C, Sierra Moros MJ. Marked increase in cryptosporidiosis cases, Spain, 2023. Euro Surveill 2024; 29. [PMID: 38994603 PMCID: PMC11241854 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2024.29.28.2300733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BackgroundBy mid-September 2023, several event notifications related to cryptosporidiosis had been identified from different regions in Spain. Therefore, a request for urgent notification of cryptosporidiosis cases to the National Surveillance Network was launched.AimWe aimed at assessing the extent of the increase in cases, the epidemiological characteristics and the transmission modes and compared to previous years.MethodsWe analysed data on case notifications, outbreak reports and genotypes focusing on June-October 2023 and compared the results to 2016-2022.ResultsIn 2023, 4,061 cryptosporidiosis cases were notified in Spain, which is an increase compared to 2016-2022. The cumulative incidence was 8.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023, sixfold higher than the median of 1.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants 2016-2022. Almost 80% of the cases were notified between June and October. The largest outbreaks were related to contaminated drinking water or swimming pools. Cryptosporidium hominis was the most common species in the characterised samples (115/122), and the C. hominis IfA12G1R5 subtype, previously unusual in Spain, was detected from 76 (62.3%) of the 122 characterised samples.ConclusionsA substantial increase in cryptosporidiosis cases was observed in 2023. Strengthening surveillance of Cryptosporidium is essential for prevention of cases, to better understand trends and subtypes circulating and the impact of adverse meteorological events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Peñuelas Martinez
- CIBER in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- These authors contributed equally to the work and share first authorship
- Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
- National Centre of Epidemiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- These authors contributed equally to the work and share first authorship
- CIBER in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- National Centre of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Bernardo R Guzmán Herrador
- These authors contributed equally to the work and share first authorship
- Coordinating Centre for Health Alerts and Emergencies, Ministry of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Rosa María García Álvarez
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago (A Coruña), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Coordinating Centre for Health Alerts and Emergencies, Ministry of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Guerrero-Vadillo
- CIBER in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- National Centre of Epidemiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Dashti
- National Centre of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Pamela C Köster
- Faculty of Medicine, Alfonso X El Sabio University (UAX), Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Alfonso X El Sabio University (UAX), Villanueva de la Cañada, Madrid, Spain
- National Centre of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain
| | | | - Fernando Simón Soria
- Coordinating Centre for Health Alerts and Emergencies, Ministry of Health, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Fuentes Corripio
- These authors contributed equally to the work and share last authorship
- National Centre of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Carmen Varela Martínez
- These authors contributed equally to the work and share last authorship
- CIBER in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- National Centre of Epidemiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Sierra Moros
- These authors contributed equally to the work and share last authorship
- Coordinating Centre for Health Alerts and Emergencies, Ministry of Health, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
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de Andrés Aguayo A, Millet JP, Álvarez-Bruned L, Palma D, Gómez A, Gallés P, Sabaté S, Álvarez G, Rodriguez V, Cornejo T, Rius C. Clostridium and Cryptosporidium outbreak linked to a splash pad. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1578. [PMID: 38867266 PMCID: PMC11167891 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18870-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND . Splash pads for recreational purposes are widespread. Using these pads can pose a health risk if they lack installation regulation and water quality supervision. Our aim was to describe a waterborne disease outbreak caused by Clostridium perfringens and Cryptosporidium spp. in a Barcelona district and the measures taken for its control. METHODS . On August 2018, 71 cases of acute gastroenteritis were detected, affecting people who used a splash pad or were in contact with a user. Microbiological and environmental investigations were carried out. A descriptive analysis of the sample and Poisson regression models adjusted for age and sex were performed, obtaining frequencies, median values, and adjusted prevalence ratios with their 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS The median age of the cases was 6.7 years, 27 (38%) required medical care, and three (4.2%) were hospitalized. The greater the number of times a person entered the area, the greater the number of symptoms and their severity. Nineteen (76%) of the 25 stool samples collected from cases showed the presence of one or both pathogens. Environmental investigations showed deficiencies in the facilities and identified the presence of both species in the splash pad. Health education and hygiene measures were carried out, and 14 days after the closure of the facilities, no more cases related to the pad were recorded. CONCLUSIONS . Specific regulations are needed on the use of splash pads for recreational purposes. Until these regulations are in place, these types of facility should comply with the regulations that apply to swimming pools and spas, including those related to the design of the tanks, water recirculation systems, and adequate disinfection systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna de Andrés Aguayo
- Servei d'Epidemiología. Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain
| | - Joan-Pau Millet
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain.
| | - Laia Álvarez-Bruned
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain
| | - David Palma
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain
| | - Anna Gómez
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain
| | - Pau Gallés
- Public Health Department of Reus City Council, Ample, Reus, 13-43202, Spain
| | - Sara Sabaté
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain
| | - Gabriela Álvarez
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain
| | - Virginia Rodriguez
- Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain
| | - Thais Cornejo
- Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain
| | - Cristina Rius
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Plaza Lesseps 1, Barcelona, 08023, Spain
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Häkkänen T, Rimhanen-Finne R, Antikainen J, Ruotsalainen E, Vainio A. Molecular characteristics of Cryptosporidium spp. in human cases in five Finnish hospital districts during 2021: first findings of Cryptosporidium mortiferum (Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I) in Finland. Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:225-231. [PMID: 38242277 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
The aims of the study were to characterise the distribution of Cryptosporidium spp. and subtypes causing infections in Finland during 2021. This was carried out with 60 clinical samples from the hospital districts of Helsinki and Uusimaa, Vaasa, Kymenlaakso, South Karelia, and Central Finland, as well as with Finnish Infectious Diseases Register (FIDR) data. Additionally, the study aimed to explore the potential exposures related to Cryptosporidium mortiferum (Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I) infections via interview. Species identification was carried out with quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and 18S sequencing. Further typing was performed with gp60 subtyping. Over 70% of the samples were identified as Cryptosporidium parvum and 20% as C. mortiferum, which had not been identified in Finland before. Two cases of Cryptosporidium hominis were identified from patients reported to have travelled outside Europe. The C. parvum subtype IIaA15G2R1 and the C. mortiferum subtype XIVaA20G2T1 were the most common subtypes identified. The interviewed C. mortiferum cases did not report shared exposures such as contact with wild rodents. In conclusion, C. parvum and C. mortiferum were the major causes of cryptosporidiosis in the five studied Finnish hospital districts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Häkkänen
- Expert Microbiology Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, 00271 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Ruska Rimhanen-Finne
- Infectious Disease Control and Vaccinations Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, 00271 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jenni Antikainen
- Diagnostic Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 4, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eeva Ruotsalainen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Inflammation Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 4, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anni Vainio
- Expert Microbiology Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, 00271 Helsinki, Finland
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Wang Y, Li N, Liang G, Wang L, Zhang X, Cui Z, Li X, Zhang S, Zhang L. Identification of host protein ENO1 (alpha-enolase) interacting with Cryptosporidium parvum sporozoite surface protein, Cpgp40. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:146. [PMID: 38504274 PMCID: PMC10953254 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06233-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidium parvum is an apicomplexan zoonotic parasite causing the diarrheal illness cryptosporidiosis in humans and animals. To invade the host intestinal epithelial cells, parasitic proteins expressed on the surface of sporozoites interact with host cells to facilitate the formation of parasitophorous vacuole for the parasite to reside and develop. The gp40 of C. parvum, named Cpgp40 and located on the surface of sporozoites, was proven to participate in the process of host cell invasion. METHODS We utilized the purified Cpgp40 as a bait to obtain host cell proteins interacting with Cpgp40 through the glutathione S-transferase (GST) pull-down method. In vitro analysis, through bimolecular fluorescence complementation assay (BiFC) and coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP), confirmed the solid interaction between Cpgp40 and ENO1. In addition, by using protein mutation and parasite infection rate analysis, it was demonstrated that ENO1 plays an important role in the C. parvum invasion of HCT-8 cells. RESULTS To illustrate the functional activity of Cpgp40 interacting with host cells, we identified the alpha-enolase protein (ENO1) from HCT-8 cells, which showed direct interaction with Cpgp40. The mRNA level of ENO1 gene was significantly decreased at 3 and 24 h after C. parvum infection. Antibodies and siRNA specific to ENO1 showed the ability to neutralize C. parvum infection in vitro, which indicated the participation of ENO1 during the parasite invasion of HCT-8 cells. In addition, we further demonstrated that ENO1 protein was involved in the regulation of cytoplasmic matrix of HCT-8 cells during C. parvum invasion. Functional study of the protein mutation illustrated that ENO1 was also required for the endogenous development of C. parvum. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we utilized the purified Cpgp40 as a bait to obtain host cell proteins ENO1 interacting with Cpgp40. Functional studies illustrated that the host cell protein ENO1 was involved in the regulation of tight junction and adherent junction proteins during C. parvum invasion and was required for endogenous development of C. parvum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuexin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanda Liang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Luyang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaotian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaohui Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoying Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China.
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sumei Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China.
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China.
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Gattan HS, Wakid MH, Qahwaji RM, Altwaim S, Mahjoub HA, Alfaifi MS, Elshazly H, Al-Megrin WAI, Alshehri EA, Elshabrawy HA, El-kady AM. In silico and in vivo evaluation of the anti-cryptosporidial activity of eugenol. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1374116. [PMID: 38515537 PMCID: PMC10954888 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1374116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptosporidiosis is an opportunistic parasitic disease widely distributed worldwide. Although Cryptosporidium sp. causes asymptomatic infection in healthy people, it may lead to severe illness in immunocompromised individuals. Limited effective therapeutic alternatives are available against cryptosporidiosis in this category of patients. So, there is an urgent need for therapeutic alternatives for cryptosporidiosis. Recently, the potential uses of Eugenol (EUG) have been considered a promising novel treatment for bacterial and parasitic infections. Consequently, it is suggested to investigate the effect of EUG as an option for the treatment of cryptosporidiosis. Materials and methods The in silico bioinformatics analysis was used to predict and determine the binding affinities and intermolecular interactions of EUG and Nitazoxanide (NTZ) toward several Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum) lowa II target proteins. For animal study, five groups of immunosuppressed Swiss albino mice (10 mice each) were used. Group I was left uninfected (control), and four groups were infected with 1,000 oocysts of Cryptosporidium sp. The first infected group was left untreated. The remaining three infected groups received NTZ, EUG, and EUG + NTZ, respectively, on the 6th day post-infection (dpi). All mice were sacrificed 30 dpi. The efficacy of the used formulas was assessed by counting the number of C. parvum oocysts excreted in stool of infected mice, histopathological examination of the ileum and liver tissues and determination of the expression of iNOS in the ileum of mice in different animal groups. Results treatment with EUG resulted in a significant reduction in the number of oocysts secreted in stool when compared to infected untreated mice. In addition, oocyst excretion was significantly reduced in mice received a combination therapy of EUG and NTZ when compared with those received NTZ alone. EUG succeeded in reverting the histopathological alterations induced by Cryptosporidium infection either alone or in combination with NTZ. Moreover, mice received EUG showed marked reduction of the expression of iNOS in ileal tissues. Conclusion Based on the results, the present study signified a basis for utilizing EUG as an affordable, safe, and alternative therapy combined with NTZ in the management of cryptosporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hattan S. Gattan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed H. Wakid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rowaid M. Qahwaji
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Altwaim
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haifaa A. Mahjoub
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Sciences and Arts, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mashael S. Alfaifi
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hayam Elshazly
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences-Scientific Departments, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Wafa Abdullah I. Al-Megrin
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Hatem A. Elshabrawy
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Sam Houston State University, Conroe, TX, United States
| | - Asmaa M. El-kady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
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Bujila I, Troell K, Ögren J, Hansen A, Killander G, Agudelo L, Lebbad M, Beser J. Cryptosporidium species and subtypes identified in human domestic cases through the national microbiological surveillance programme in Sweden from 2018 to 2022. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:146. [PMID: 38291399 PMCID: PMC10826111 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09049-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intestinal protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium is an important cause of diarrheal disease worldwide. A national microbiological surveillance programme was implemented in Sweden in 2018 in order to increase knowledge of the molecular epidemiology of human cryptosporidiosis to better understand transmission patterns and potential zoonotic sources. This article summarises the results of the first five years of the surveillance programme. METHODS Cryptosporidium-positive faecal and DNA samples from domestically acquired infections were collected from clinical microbiological laboratories in Sweden. Species and subtype determination was performed using 60 kDa glycoprotein and/or small subunit ribosomal RNA gene analysis. RESULTS Between 2018 and 2022, 1654 samples were analysed and 11 different species were identified: C. parvum (n = 1412), C. mortiferum (n = 59), C. hominis (n = 56), C. erinacei (n = 11), C. cuniculus (n = 5), C. meleagridis (n = 3), C. equi (n = 2), C. ubiquitum (n = 2), and one each of C. canis, C. ditrichi and C. felis. Subtyping revealed seven subtype families of C. parvum (new subtype families IIy and IIz) and 69 different subtypes (11 new subtypes). The most common C. parvum subtypes were IIdA22G1c, IIdA24G1, IIdA15G2R1 and IIaA16G1R1b. For C. hominis, four different subtype families and nine different subtypes (two new subtypes) were identified. For additional species, two new subtype families (IIIk and VId) and nine new subtypes were identified. All successfully subtyped C. mortiferum cases were subtype XIVaA20G2T1, confirming previous findings in Sweden. Several outbreaks were identified of which the majority were foodborne and a few were due to direct contact with infected animals. CONCLUSION Infection with C. parvum is the leading cause of human cryptosporidiosis acquired in Sweden, where more than 90% of domestic cases are caused by this zoonotic species and only a small proportion of cases are due to infection with other species. The rodent-associated C. mortiferum is considered an emerging zoonotic species in Sweden and the number of domestically acquired human cases has surpassed that of infection with C. hominis. A high diversity of species and subtypes, as well as diversity within the same subtype, was detected. Also, cryptosporidiosis appears to affect adults to a great extent in Sweden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Bujila
- Department of Microbiology, Unit of Parasitology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden.
| | - Karin Troell
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Ås, Norway
| | - Jessica Ögren
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Laboratory Medicine, Jönköping County, Jönköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anette Hansen
- Department of Communicable Disease Control and Health Protection, Unit of Zoonoses and Antibiotic Resistance, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | - Gustav Killander
- Department of Microbiology, Unit of Parasitology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | - Lady Agudelo
- Department of Microbiology, Unit of Parasitology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | - Marianne Lebbad
- Department of Microbiology, Unit of Parasitology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | - Jessica Beser
- Department of Microbiology, Unit of Parasitology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
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8
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Schoeps A, Röbl K, Walter N, Neute A, Walter B, Freudenau I, Jurke A, Klier C, Heinmüller P, Saeed S, Metz J, Wilking H, Zanger P. Increased number of cryptosporidiosis cases with travel history to Croatia might be related to swimming pools, Germany, 2023. Euro Surveill 2024; 29:2300699. [PMID: 38179624 PMCID: PMC10905659 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2024.29.1.2300699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In August and September 2023, an unusually high number of cryptosporidiosis cases identified by routine German surveillance had travelled to Croatia (n = 23). Nine cases had stayed in the same camping resort and seven further cases had stayed at other camping sites within 15 km. Based on our standardised questionnaires, the most likely source of infection was swimming pools (93%). Further environmental investigations on site might reveal potential common sources of contamination that could be targeted by control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Schoeps
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- These authors contributed equally to this work and share first authorship
- Federal State Agency for Consumer and Health Protection Rhineland-Palatinate, Koblenz, Germany
| | - Klara Röbl
- These authors contributed equally to this work and share first authorship
- Postgraduate Training for Applied Epidemiology (PAE), Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Germany
| | - Nicole Walter
- District Public Health Authority Rhein-Pfalz-Kreis, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Andrea Neute
- Landesamt für Arbeitsschutz, Verbraucherschutz und Gesundheit (LAVG), Potsdam, Germany
| | - Bernadette Walter
- Postgraduate Training for Applied Epidemiology (PAE), Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Germany
- Department for Health Protection, Infection Control and Epidemiology, State Health Office, Ministry of Social Affairs, Health and Integration Baden-Württemberg, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Inga Freudenau
- Landeszentrum Gesundheit Nordrhein-Westfalen, Fachgruppe Infektionsepidemiologie, Bochum, Germany
| | - Annette Jurke
- Landeszentrum Gesundheit Nordrhein-Westfalen, Fachgruppe Infektionsepidemiologie, Bochum, Germany
| | - Christiane Klier
- Niedersächsisches Landesgesundheitsamt, Abt. 2: Infektionsepidemiologie, Hannover, Germany
| | - Petra Heinmüller
- Hessisches Landesamt für Gesundheit und Pflege (HLfGP), Abteilung 2 Gesundheits- und Infektionsschutz, Dillenburg, Germany
| | - Syamend Saeed
- Postgraduate Training for Applied Epidemiology (PAE), Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Germany
- Hessisches Landesamt für Gesundheit und Pflege (HLfGP), Abteilung 2 Gesundheits- und Infektionsschutz, Dillenburg, Germany
| | - Jasmin Metz
- Bayerisches Landesamt für Gesundheit und Lebensmittelsicherheit, München, Germany
- Postgraduate Training for Applied Epidemiology (PAE), Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Germany
| | - Hendrik Wilking
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Germany
| | - Philipp Zanger
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Federal State Agency for Consumer and Health Protection Rhineland-Palatinate, Koblenz, Germany
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Piazzesi A, Pane S, Russo A, Del Chierico F, Francalanci P, Cotugno N, Rossi P, Locatelli F, Palma P, Putignani L. Case Report: The impact of severe cryptosporidiosis on the gut microbiota of a pediatric patient with CD40L immunodeficiency. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1281440. [PMID: 37965266 PMCID: PMC10641285 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1281440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum is a protozoan parasite and one of the leading causes of gastroenteritis in the world, primarily affecting very young children and immunocompromised patients. While infection is usually self-limiting, it can become chronic and even lethal in these vulnerable populations, in whom Cryptosporidium treatments are generally ineffective, due to their acting in concert with a functioning immune system. Here, we describe a case of chronic cryptosporidiosis in a European child with severe CD40L immunodeficiency infected with Cryptosporidium parvum of the IIa20G1 subgenotype, a lineage which has thus far only ever been described in the Middle East. After years of on-off treatment with conventional and non-conventional anti-parasitic drugs failed to clear parasitosis, we performed targeted metagenomics to observe the bacterial composition of the patient's gut microbiota (GM), and to evaluate fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a potential treatment option. We found that C. parvum infection led to significant shifts in GM bacterial composition in our patient, with consequent shifts in predicted intestinal functional signatures consistent with a state of persistent inflammation. This, combined with the patient's poor prognosis and increasing parasitic burden despite many rounds of anti-parasitic drug treatments, made the patient a potential candidate for an experimental FMT procedure. Unfortunately, given the many comorbidities that were precipitated by the patient's immunodeficiency and chronic C. parvum infection, FMT was postponed in favor of more urgently necessary liver and bone marrow transplants. Tragically, after the first liver transplant failed, the patient lost his life before undergoing FMT and a second liver transplant. With this case report, we present the first description of how cryptosporidiosis can shape the gut microbiota of a pediatric patient with severe immunodeficiency. Finally, we discuss how both our results and the current scientific literature suggest that GM modulations, either by probiotics or FMT, can become novel treatment options for chronic Cryptosporidium infection and its consequent complications, especially in those patients who do not respond to the currently available anti-parasitic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Piazzesi
- Unit of Human Microbiome, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Pane
- Unit of Microbiomics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Russo
- Unit of Microbiomics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Paola Francalanci
- Department of Pathology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Cotugno
- Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine, Chair of Pediatrics, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Rossi
- Department of Systems Medicine, Chair of Pediatrics, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
- Academic Department of Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Haematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Palma
- Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine, Chair of Pediatrics, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenza Putignani
- Unit of Microbiomics and Unit of Human Microbiome, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Roche K, Dalle F, Capelli N, Borne R, Jouffroy-Bapicot I, Valot B, Grenouillet F, Le Bailly M. From modern-day parasitology to paleoparasitology: the elusive past record and evolution of Cryptosporidium. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1249884. [PMID: 37928683 PMCID: PMC10622768 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1249884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent efforts have been made to review the state of the art on a variety of questions and targets in paleoparasitology, including protozoan taxa. Meanwhile, these efforts seemed to let aside Cryptosporidium, and we then intended to review its paleoparasitological record to assess its past distribution and favored detection methods, and eventually highlight needed research trajectories. This review shows that contrary to other parasites, most of the positive results came from South-American sites and coprolites rather than sediment samples, highlighting the need to test this kind of material, notably in Europe where many negative results were reported in the published literature from sediment samples. Moreover, aDNA-based detections are nearly absent from the paleoparasitological record of this parasite, though punctually shown successful. With their potential to address the evolutionary history of Cryptosporidium species, notably through their 18S rRNA tree, aDNA-based approaches should be encouraged in the future. In sum, and though the limits of currently used methods and materials remain unclear, this review highlights the potential role of coprolites and aDNA for the study of Cryptosporidium species in the past and how this history shaped their current diversity and distribution, notably among human populations but also farm animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kévin Roche
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Frédéric Dalle
- CNR LE Cryptosporidiosis Collaborating Laboratory, Santé Publique France, Dijon, France
- Department of Parasitology/Mycology, University Hospital of Dijon, Dijon, France
| | - Nicolas Capelli
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Romain Borne
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | | | - Benoit Valot
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Frédéric Grenouillet
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Matthieu Le Bailly
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
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11
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Das R, Palit P, Haque MA, Levine MM, Kotloff KL, Nasrin D, Hossain MJ, Sur D, Ahmed T, Breiman RF, Freeman MC, Faruque ASG. Symptomatic and asymptomatic enteric protozoan parasitic infection and their association with subsequent growth parameters in under five children in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011687. [PMID: 37816031 PMCID: PMC10588856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium are common intestinal protozoan parasites that contribute to a high burden of childhood morbidity and mortality. Our study quantified the association between intestinal protozoan parasites and child anthropometric outcomes among children under-5. METHODS We analyzed data from 7,800 children enrolled in the Global Enteric Multicenter Study (GEMS) across seven study sites that were positive for intestinal protozoan parasites between December 2007 and March 2011. Parasites were assessed using stool immunoassays (ELISA). We applied multiple linear regression to test the association between any or concurrent parasite and child anthropometric outcomes: length/height-for-age (HAZ), weight-for-age (WAZ), and weight-for-length/height (WHZ) z-score after 60 days of enrollment. Models were stratified by diarrheal symptoms, driven by the study design, and adjusted for potential covariates. FINDINGS During the follow-up at day 60 after enrollment, child anthropometric outcomes, among the asymptomatic children showed, negative associations between Giardia with HAZ [β: -0.13; 95% CI: -0.17, -0.09; p<0.001] and WAZ [β -0.07; 95% CI: -0.11, -0.04; p<0.001], but not WHZ [β: -0.02; 95% CI:-0.06, 0.02; p = 0.36]; Cryptosporidium with WAZ [β: -0.15; 95% CI: -0.22, -0.09; p<0.001] and WHZ [β: -0.18; 95%CI: -0.25, -0.12; p<0.001], but not with HAZ [β: -0.03; 95% CI: -0.09, 0.04; p = 0.40]. For symptomatic children, no associations were found between Giardia and anthropometry; negative associations were found between Cryptosporidium with HAZ [β: -0.17; 95% CI: -0.23, -0.11; p<0.001], WAZ [β: -0.25; 95% CI: -0.31, -0.19; p<0.001] and WHZ [β: -0.23; 95% CI: -0.30, -0.17; p<0.001]. Among the asymptomatic 24-59 months children, Giardia had a negative association with HAZ [β: -0.09; 95% CI: -0.15, -0.04; p = 0.001]. No significant associations were found between E. histolytica with child growth. CONCLUSIONS While some studies have found that Giardia is not associated with (or protective against) acute diarrhea, our findings suggest that it is associated with growth shortfall. This observation underscores the need for preventive strategies targeting enteric protozoan parasites among young children, to reduce the burden of childhood malnutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rina Das
- Nutrition Research Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Parag Palit
- Nutrition Research Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Md. Ahshanul Haque
- Nutrition Research Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Myron M. Levine
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Karen L. Kotloff
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Dilruba Nasrin
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - M. Jahangir Hossain
- Medical Research Council Unit, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Dipika Sur
- National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Tahmeed Ahmed
- Nutrition Research Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
- James P. Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Robert F. Breiman
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Matthew C. Freeman
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - A. S. G. Faruque
- Nutrition Research Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
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12
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Liang Y, Liu YY, Mei JJ, Zheng WB, Liu Q, Gao WW, Zhu XQ, Xie SC. Molecular Identification and Genotyping of Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis sp. in Cattle in Representative Areas of Shanxi Province, North China. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2929. [PMID: 37760332 PMCID: PMC10525831 DOI: 10.3390/ani13182929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Both Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis sp. are common intestinal protozoa, which can cause zoonotic diseases and economic losses to livestock industry. To evaluate the prevalence and genetic population structure of Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis sp. in beef and dairy cattle in Shanxi Province, north China, a total of 795 fecal samples were collected from beef and dairy cattle in three representative counties in Shanxi Province, and these fecal samples were examined using molecular approaches based on 18S small-subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) of Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis sp., respectively. Among 795 cattle fecal samples, 23 were detected as Cryptosporidium-positive and 103 were detected as Blastocystis-positive, and the overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis sp. in cattle in Shanxi Province was 2.9% and 13.0%, respectively. For Cryptosporidium spp., DNA sequence analysis indicated that all 23 positive samples were identified as C. andersoni. Furthermore, five known subtypes (ST1, ST10, ST14, ST21 and ST26) and three unknown subtypes of Blastocystis sp. were detected among 103 positive samples using DNA sequence analysis. This study reported the occurrence and prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis sp. in cattle in Shanxi Province for the first time, which extends the geographical distribution of these two zoonotic parasites and provides baseline data for the prevention and control of these two important zoonotic parasites in cattle in Shanxi Province.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Liang
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Y.L.); (Y.-Y.L.); (J.-J.M.); (W.-B.Z.); (Q.L.); (W.-W.G.)
| | - Ya-Ya Liu
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Y.L.); (Y.-Y.L.); (J.-J.M.); (W.-B.Z.); (Q.L.); (W.-W.G.)
| | - Jin-Jin Mei
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Y.L.); (Y.-Y.L.); (J.-J.M.); (W.-B.Z.); (Q.L.); (W.-W.G.)
| | - Wen-Bin Zheng
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Y.L.); (Y.-Y.L.); (J.-J.M.); (W.-B.Z.); (Q.L.); (W.-W.G.)
| | - Qing Liu
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Y.L.); (Y.-Y.L.); (J.-J.M.); (W.-B.Z.); (Q.L.); (W.-W.G.)
| | - Wen-Wei Gao
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Y.L.); (Y.-Y.L.); (J.-J.M.); (W.-B.Z.); (Q.L.); (W.-W.G.)
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Y.L.); (Y.-Y.L.); (J.-J.M.); (W.-B.Z.); (Q.L.); (W.-W.G.)
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Higher Education of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Shi-Chen Xie
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Y.L.); (Y.-Y.L.); (J.-J.M.); (W.-B.Z.); (Q.L.); (W.-W.G.)
- Research Center for Parasites & Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
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Bacchetti R, Connelly L, Browning L, Alexander CL. Changing Molecular Profiles of Human Cryptosporidiosis Cases in Scotland as a Result of the Coronavirus Disease, COVID-19 Pandemic. Br J Biomed Sci 2023; 80:11462. [PMID: 37701073 PMCID: PMC10493326 DOI: 10.3389/bjbs.2023.11462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium, the most frequently reported parasite in Scotland, causes gastrointestinal illness resulting in diarrhoea, nausea and cramps. Two species are responsible for most cases: Cryptosporidium hominis (C. hominis) and Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum). Transmission occurs faecal-orally, through ingestion of contaminated food and water, or direct contact with faeces. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led to global restrictions, including national lockdowns to limit viral transmission. Such interventions led to decreased social mixing, and reduced/no local and international travel, which are factors associated with transmission of multiple communicable diseases, including cryptosporidiosis. This report assessed the impact of the pandemic on Scottish cryptosporidiosis cases, and identified changes in circulating molecular variants of Cryptosporidium species. Molecular data generated using real time PCR and GP60 nested-PCR assays on laboratory-confirmed cryptosporidiosis cases reported during 2018-22 were analysed. The Scottish Microbiology Reference Laboratories (SMiRL), Glasgow, received 774 Cryptosporidium-positive faeces during 2018-22, of which 486 samples were successfully subtyped. During this time period, C. hominis (n = 155; 21%) and C. parvum (n = 572; 77%) were the most commonly detected species. The total number of cases during 2020, which was greatly affected by the pandemic, was markedly lower in comparison to case numbers in the 2 years before and after 2020. The most predominant C. hominis family detected prior to 2020 was the Ib family which shifted to the Ie family during 2022. The most common C. parvum variant during 2018-22 was the IIa family, however a rise in the IId family was observed (n = 6 in 2018 to n = 25 in 2022). The dominant C. hominis subtype IbA10G2, which accounted for 71% of C. hominis subtypes in 2018-19 was superseded by three rare subtypes: IeA11G3T3 (n = 15), IdA16 (n = 8) and IbA9G3 (n = 3) by 2022. Frequently reported C. parvum subtypes in 2018-19 were IIaA15G2R1 and IIaA17G1R1, accounting for 59% of total C. parvum subtypes. By 2022, IIaA15G2R1 remained the most common (n = 28), however three unusual subtypes in Scotland emerged: IIdA24G1 (n = 7), IIaA16G3R1 (n = 7) and IIaA15G1R2 (n = 7). Continuous monitoring of Cryptosporidium variants following the pandemic will be essential to explore further changes and emergence of strains with altered virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Bacchetti
- Scottish Microbiology Reference Laboratories (Glasgow), Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Connelly
- Scottish Microbiology Reference Laboratories (Glasgow), Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Lynda Browning
- Clinical and Protecting Health Directorate, Public Health Scotland, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Claire L. Alexander
- Scottish Microbiology Reference Laboratories (Glasgow), Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Zhao L, Chai HL, Wang MY, Zhang ZS, Han WX, Yang B, Wang Y, Zhang S, Zhao WH, Ma YM, Zhan YJ, Wang LF, Ding YL, Wang JL, Liu YH. Prevalence and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in dairy cattle in Central Inner Mongolia, Northern China. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:134. [PMID: 37626358 PMCID: PMC10464073 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03696-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidium is a gastrointestinal protozoan that widely exists in nature, it is an established zoonotic pathogen. Infected cattle are considered to be associated with cryptosporidiosis outbreaks in humans. In the present study, we aimed to assess the prevalence and species distribution of Cryptosporidium in dairy cattle in Central Inner Mongolia. METHODS We focused on the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rRNA) of Cryptosporidium and 60-kDa glycoprotein gene (gp60) of Cryptosporidium parvum. We collected 505 dairy cattle manure samples from 6 sampling sites in Inner Mongolia in 2021; the samples were divided into 4 groups based on age. DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), sequence analysis, and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) using SspI and MboII restriction endonucleases were performed. RFLP analysis was performed to determine the prevalence and species distribution of Cryptosporidium. RESULTS SSU rRNA PCR revealed that the overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection was 29.90% (151/505), with a prevalence of 37.67% (55/146) and 26.74% (96/359) in diarrheal and nondiarrheal samples, respectively; these differences were significant. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection at the 6 sampling sites ranged from 0 to 47.06% and that among the 4 age groups ranged from 18.50 to 43.81%. SSU rRNA sequence analysis and RFLP analysis revealed the presence of 4 Cryptosporidium species, namely, C. bovis (44.37%), C. andersoni (35.10%), C. ryanae (21.85%), and C. parvum (11.92%), along with a mixed infection involving two or three Cryptosporidium species. Cryptosporidium bovis or C. andersoni was the most common cause of infection in the four age groups. The subtype of C. parvum was successfully identified as IIdA via gp60 analysis; all isolates were identified as the subtype IIdA19G1. CONCLUSIONS To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of dairy cattle infected with four Cryptosporidium species in Inner Mongolia, China, along with a mixed infection involving two or three Cryptosporidium species, with C. bovis and C. andersoni as the dominant species. Moreover, this is the first study to identify C. parvum subtype IIdA19G1 in cattle in Inner Mongolia. Our study findings provide detailed information on molecular epidemiological investigation of bovine cryptosporidiosis in Inner Mongolia, suggesting that dairy cattle in this region are at risk of transmitting cryptosporidiosis to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot, China
| | - Hai-Liang Chai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Ming-Yuan Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Zhan-Sheng Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Wen-Xiong Han
- Inner Mongolia Saikexing Reproductive Biotechnology (Group) Co.,Ltd, Hohhot, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Animal Disease Control Center of Ordos, Ordos, China
| | - Yan Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Shan Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Wei-Hong Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yi-Min Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yong-Jie Zhan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Li-Feng Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yu-Lin Ding
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot, China
| | - Jin-Ling Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot, China
| | - Yong-Hong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China.
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology in Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot, China.
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Lefebvre M, Razakandrainibe R, Schapman D, François A, Genty D, Galas L, Villena I, Favennec L, Costa D. Interactions between free-living amoebae and Cryptosporidium parvum: an experimental study. Parasite 2023; 30:31. [PMID: 37606589 PMCID: PMC10443459 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2023033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Free-Living Amebae (FLA) and Cryptosporidium oocysts occasionally share the same environment. From 2004 to 2016, Cryptosporidium was responsible for 60% of 905 worldwide waterborne outbreaks caused by protozoan parasites. The aim of this study was to evaluate interactions between C. parvum oocysts and two common FLAs (Acanthamoeba castellanii and Vermamoeba vermiformis) in a water environment. Encystment and survival of FLAs were evaluated by microscopy using trypan blue vital coloration. Oocysts were numerated on microscopy. Interactions were studied over time in conditions both unfavorable and favorable to phagocytosis. Potential phagocytosis was directly evaluated by several microscopic approaches and indirectly by numeration of microorganisms and oocyst infectivity evaluation. Occasional phagocytosis of C. parvum by FLAs was documented. However, oocyst concentrations did not decrease significantly, suggesting resistance of oocysts to phagocytosis. A temporary decrease of oocyst infectivity was observed in the presence of A. castellanii. The effect of these interactions on C. parvum infectivity is particularly interesting. The biofilm condition could favor the persistence or even the proliferation of oocysts over time. This study demonstrated interactions between C. parvum and FLAs. Further knowledge of the mechanisms involved in the decrease of oocyst infectivity in the presence of A. castellanii could facilitate the development of new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Lefebvre
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA7510 ESCAPE, University hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
| | - Romy Razakandrainibe
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA7510 ESCAPE, University hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
- National Reference Center Cryptosporidiosis, microsporidia and other protozoa, University Hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
| | - Damien Schapman
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM, CNRS, HeRacLeS US 51 UAR 2026, PRIMACEN 76000 Rouen France
| | - Arnaud François
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA7510 ESCAPE, University hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
- Department of anathomopathology, University Hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
| | - Damien Genty
- Department of anathomopathology, University Hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
| | - Ludovic Galas
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM, CNRS, HeRacLeS US 51 UAR 2026, PRIMACEN 76000 Rouen France
| | - Isabelle Villena
- Reims Champagne-Ardenne University, Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA7510 ESCAPE 51454 Reims France
| | - Loic Favennec
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA7510 ESCAPE, University hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
- National Reference Center Cryptosporidiosis, microsporidia and other protozoa, University Hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
| | - Damien Costa
- Univ Rouen Normandie, Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA7510 ESCAPE, University hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
- National Reference Center Cryptosporidiosis, microsporidia and other protozoa, University Hospital of Rouen Normandie 76000 Rouen France
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Ahmed SAA, Quattrocchi A, Elzagawy SM, Karanis P, Gad SEM. Diagnostic Performance of Toluidine Blue Stain for Direct Wet Mount Detection of Cryptosporidium Oocysts: Qualitative and Quantitative Comparison to the Modified Ziehl-Neelsen Stain. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2557. [PMID: 37568920 PMCID: PMC10416936 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13152557] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The wet mount staining technique is a simple, economical, and rapid method for detecting parasitic stages. The objective of the current study was to evaluate wet mount diagnostic stains for Cryptosporidium infection in human faecal samples and to compare the sensitivity and qualitative performance of toluidine blue (TolB) and modified Ziehl-Neelsen (mZN) stain. (2) Methods: The collection, purification, and molecular amplification of Cryptosporidium oocysts were performed. TolB, malachite green, trypan blue, and crystal violet were evaluated qualitatively to diagnose Cryptosporidium oocysts. The outperforming stain was compared to mZN using a quantitative evaluation and qualitative scoring system. (3) Results: The oocysts of Cryptosporidium parvum were effectively purified and utilized for spiking. TolB was the most effective diagnostic stain among wet mount stains for detecting Cryptosporidium oocysts. TolB outperformed mZN in terms of sensitivity, with 100% versus 79% at a concentration of 104 and 49% versus 23% at a concentration of 102. TolB had the most favourable qualitative stain characteristics against mZN; however, sample freshness and being a temporary stain were crucial considerations. (4) Conclusions: This study emphasizes that TolB, as a routine wet mount technique for screening Cryptosporidium infection, will provide a more sensitive and faster method than mZN staining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahira Abdelaziz Ali Ahmed
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (S.M.E.); (S.E.M.G.)
| | - Annalisa Quattrocchi
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, Nicosia CY-1700, Cyprus;
| | - Sherine M. Elzagawy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (S.M.E.); (S.E.M.G.)
- College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, 21 Ilia Papakyriakou, 2414 Engomi, Nicosia CY-1700, Cyprus
| | - Samer Eid Mohamed Gad
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (S.M.E.); (S.E.M.G.)
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17
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Campos-Ruiz M, Flamarich C, Fernández-Navarro A, Roura S, Martin L, Pillado P, Cardona PJ, Fernández-Rivas G. Clinical Performance of Lateral Flow Assay for Cryptosporidium spp. Diagnosis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2140. [PMID: 37626637 PMCID: PMC10452195 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082140] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. is an apicomplexan protozoan parasite associated with gastroenteritis in humans. In 2018, Spain showed 1511 confirmed cases, with a growing trend since 2014. Despite this fact, Cryptosporidium spp. is not usually routinely examined when a parasitological study is ordered, although accurate diagnosis is fundamental to prevent the spread of the illness. The main objectives of the present work is to demonstrate the circulation and to study the epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis in patients who were being tested for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. parasites in the faeces in the Metropolitan North Area of Barcelona, Maresme, and Vallés Occidental using a two-step algorithm. The stool samples were analysed using the Cryptosporidium/Giardia spp. immunochromatographic test; the positive samples were visualised under a microscope using auramine staining. The proportion of Cryptosporidium spp. cases was around 2% in the studied patients, with a pronounced seasonal incidence peak in late summer-early autumn. In our cohort, weight loss was the main symptom related to confirmed cases. The mean age of confirmed patients was 19 years old, and they were younger than the unconfirmed group. Cryptosporidium spp. is one of the parasites that currently circulate in many areas in Europe. Prevalence must be taken into account for active searching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Campos-Ruiz
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Clara Flamarich
- CAP Sant Roc. Catalan Institut of Health, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Anabel Fernández-Navarro
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Silvia Roura
- North Metropolitan International Health Program (PROSICS), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08196 Badalona, Spain
| | - Laura Martin
- CAP Doctor Robert Catalan Institut of Health, 08915 Badalona, Spain
| | - Pablo Pillado
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Pere-Joan Cardona
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Gema Fernández-Rivas
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
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18
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Enbom T, Suominen K, Laitinen S, Ollgren J, Autio T, Rimhanen-Finne R. Cryptosporidium parvum: an emerging occupational zoonosis in Finland. Acta Vet Scand 2023; 65:25. [PMID: 37349848 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-023-00684-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidiosis has increased in recent years in Finland. We aimed to identify risk factors for human cryptosporidiosis and to determine the significance of Cryptosporidium parvum as a causative agent. Based on notifications to the Finnish Infectious Disease Register (FIDR), we conducted a case-control study and genotyped Cryptosporidium species from patient samples from July to December 2019. We also retrieved the occupational cryptosporidiosis cases from 2011 to 2019 from the Finnish Register of Occupational Diseases (FROD). RESULTS Of 272 patient samples analyzed, 76% were C. parvum and 3% C. hominis. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis of 82 C. parvum cases and 218 controls, cryptosporidiosis was associated with cattle contact (OR 81, 95% confidence interval (CI) 26-251), having a family member with gastroenteritis (OR 34, 95% CI 6.2-186), and spending time at one's own vacation home (OR 15, 95% CI 4.2-54). Of the cases, 65% had regular cattle contact. The most common gp60 subtypes identified were IIaA15G2R1 and IIaA13G2R1. In FROD, 68 recognized occupational cryptosporidiosis cases were registered in 2011-2019. CONCLUSIONS C. parvum is the most common Cryptosporidium species found in humans in Finland and poses a moderate to high risk of occupational infection for people working with cattle. The number of occupational notifications of cryptosporidiosis increased between 2011 and 2019. Cryptosporidiosis should be recognized as an important occupational disease among persons working with livestock in Finland, criteria to identify occupational cryptosporidiosis need to be created, and occupational safety in cattle-related work should be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuulia Enbom
- Animal Health Diagnostic Unit, Finnish Food Authority, Neulaniementie 4, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Kristiina Suominen
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Sirpa Laitinen
- Occupational Safety, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Neulaniementie 4, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jukka Ollgren
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tiina Autio
- Animal Health Diagnostic Unit, Finnish Food Authority, Neulaniementie 4, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ruska Rimhanen-Finne
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, Helsinki, Finland
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19
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Chen Y, Wu Y, Qin H, Xu H, Zhang L. Prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in children from China: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Trop 2023; 244:106958. [PMID: 37257675 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an important zoonotic pathogen that causes diarrhea in humans and animals, and a leading cause of diarrhea morbidity and mortality in children under 5 years old. However, the meta-analysis of Cryptosporidium infection in children in China has not been published. We searched the databases for articles published on the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in children in China since the inception of these databases to 31 October 2022. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in children was estimated using a random effects model. The results showed that 111 datasets from 24 provinces were selected for the final quantitative analysis. The estimated pooled Cryptosporidium infection prevalence in children in China was 2.9% (3300/126,381). The highest prevalence rate was in southwestern China (4.8%, 365/7766). Subgroup analysis indicated that the Cryptosporidium infection rate in children aged < 3 years (4.9%, 330/8428) was significantly higher than that in children aged 3-6 years (2.5%, 609/26,080) and >6 years (2.6%, 647/27,586). Six Cryptosporidium species were detected in children in China from the selected studies. C. hominis was the dominant species (77.1%, 145/188) and the proportions of subgenotype IaA14R4 of C. hominis was highest (42.8%, 62/145). The findings suggest that Chinese children is in a low level of Cryptosporidium infection, however, the geographical distribution of the infection is extensive. We suggest that measures should be taken to ensure the healthy growth of Chinese children by improving the water environment, increasing public health facilities, strengthening children's health education, and developing sound Cryptosporidium infection control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuancai Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yayun Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Huikai Qin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Huiyan Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China.
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Luzardo OP, Zaldívar-Laguía JE, Zumbado M, Travieso-Aja MDM. The Role of Veterinarians in Managing Community Cats: A Contextualized, Comprehensive Approach for Biodiversity, Public Health, and Animal Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13101586. [PMID: 37238021 DOI: 10.3390/ani13101586] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Homeless cats are a major problem in Europe, with hundreds of thousands abandoned every year. While many die, others can adapt to a lifestyle of roaming freely and establish community cat populations that tend to cluster together in groups. These groups of cats are typically found in urban areas that offer food and shelter to the cats. Animal welfare organizations often care for these cats, providing them with food, shelter, and medical attention. Despite this, conflicts can arise due to the presence of free-roaming cats, with some individuals advocating for drastic measures such as trapping and killing the cats to reduce their populations. However, it is essential to note that such methods are frequently illegal, inhumane, and ultimately ineffective in most situations. A thorough assessment of the impact of cats on a particular natural area requires a comprehensive cat census, a detailed study of the species being preyed upon, and an investigation into the prevalence of zoonotic or epizootic diseases. Moreover, veterinary experts assert that the public health risks associated with cats are often overstated. This article aims to provide a nuanced perspective on the impact of cats on biodiversity in natural areas, while also discussing their role in transmitting the main zoonotic diseases identified in European countries in recent years, with a particular focus on Spain. Effective cat control programs should focus on non-lethal methods such as trap-neuter-return (TNR) and adoption. TNR has proven to be the most effective and humane method of controlling the free-roaming cat population, but its effectiveness is influenced by several factors, including adoption programs and public education on responsible pet ownership. According to Spanish veterinarians, sustainable and science-based solutions such as TNR programs are the best way to achieve population control of free-roaming cats. The veterinary profession should raise awareness regarding sterilization, vaccination, and identification of cats and the consequences of abandonment. They oppose lethal control and removal of cats from the environment, which are ineffective and unethical methods. To promote animal welfare, veterinary professionals must collaborate with public administrations to implement long-term, sustainable solutions to the problem of cat overpopulation. Greater social awareness regarding the importance of sterilization and identification to prevent abandonment and reduce the number of free-roaming cats is also needed. Despite the challenges presented by homeless cat populations in Spain and the rest of Europe, there are many reasons for optimism. Animal welfare organizations and veterinary professionals are actively collaborating to develop humane and effective solutions to manage community cats, including programs such as TNR and adoption. Furthermore, these initiatives are gaining momentum and support from emerging laws and regulations, such as the recent Spanish animal welfare law. Through these efforts, we can reduce the number of free-roaming cats and improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavio P Luzardo
- Biomedical and Health Research Institute (IUIBS), University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35016 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35400 Arucas, Spain
- Abolitionist Association of Veterinarians against Bullfighting and Animal Abuse (AVATMA), 28045 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Manuel Zumbado
- Biomedical and Health Research Institute (IUIBS), University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35016 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35400 Arucas, Spain
- Abolitionist Association of Veterinarians against Bullfighting and Animal Abuse (AVATMA), 28045 Madrid, Spain
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Suominen KA, Björkstrand M, Ollgren J, Autio TJ, Rimhanen-Finne R. Cryptosporidiosis in Finland is predominantly of domestic origin: investigation of increased reporting, 1995-2020. Infect Dis (Lond) 2023; 55:116-124. [PMID: 36266958 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2022.2136749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidiosis is gastroenteritis caused by Cryptosporidium. Since 2017, reporting of cryptosporidiosis has increased in Finland. METHODS We describe demographics of cryptosporidiosis cases notified to Finnish Infectious Disease Register (FIDR) during a 21-year surveillance period, 1995-2020, and a retrospective investigation of increased cryptosporidiosis in Ostrobothnian hospital districts in summer 2018. RESULTS Incidence of cryptosporidiosis during the period 2017-2020 represented 20-fold increase from the period 1995-2016, with the highest incidence detected in Ostrobothnia. In 2018, cryptosporidiosis in Ostrobothnia was associated with living on or visiting a farm where the production animals had diarrhoea, noticing more flies than usual, gardening or handling manure and having a family member with gastroenteritis. Four gp60 subtypes were identified in patient samples: IIaA18G1R1, IIaA15G2R1, IIaA13G2R1 and IIaA15G1R1. CONCLUSIONS In Finland, Cryptosporidium has been included in gastrointestinal PCR diagnostic panels in most clinical laboratories since 2016. Since then, the number of reported cases has subsequently increased, indicating improved diagnostics and awareness of the illness. In 2018, several C. parvum subtypes were identified in patients suggesting that the increase was not caused by a single source. Cryptosporidiosis increased in Finland in 2020 despite hand washing recommendations and travel restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating that domestic cases are more frequent than previously considered. To monitor cause and origin of cryptosporidiosis and the effect of control measures, Cryptosporidium should be identified at subspecies level, and travel history should be included in FIDR notification. Those working with cattle and calves require precise instructions on how to prevent C. parvum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristiina A Suominen
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marit Björkstrand
- Department of Social Services and Health Care, city of Jakobstad, Jakobstad
| | - Jukka Ollgren
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tiina J Autio
- Veterinary Bacteriology and Pathology, Finnish Food Authority, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ruska Rimhanen-Finne
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
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22
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Huang W, Guo Y, Lysen C, Wang Y, Tang K, Seabolt MH, Yang F, Cebelinski E, Gonzalez-Moreno O, Hou T, Chen C, Chen M, Wan M, Li N, Hlavsa MC, Roellig DM, Feng Y, Xiao L. Multiple introductions and recombination events underlie the emergence of a hyper-transmissible Cryptosporidium hominis subtype in the USA. Cell Host Microbe 2023; 31:112-123.e4. [PMID: 36521488 PMCID: PMC10124589 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2022.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The parasite Cryptosporidium hominis is a leading cause of the diarrheal disease cryptosporidiosis, whose incidence in the United States has increased since 2005. Here, we show that the newly emerged and hyper-transmissible subtype IfA12G1R5 is now dominant in the United States. In a comparative analysis of 127 newly sequenced and 95 published C. hominis genomes, IfA12G1R5 isolates from the United States place into three of the 14 clusters (Pop6, Pop13, and Pop14), indicating that this subtype has multiple ancestral origins. Pop6 (IfA12G1R5a) has an East Africa origin and has recombined with autochthonous subtypes after its arrival. Pop13 (IfA12G1R5b) is imported from Europe, where it has recombined with the prevalent local subtype, whereas Pop14 (IfA12G1R5c) is a progeny of secondary recombination between Pop6 and Pop13. Selective sweeps in invasion-associated genes have accompanied the emergence of the dominant Pop14. These observations offer insights into the emergence and evolution of hyper-transmissible pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyi Huang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yaqiong Guo
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Colleen Lysen
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Yuanfei Wang
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Kevin Tang
- Division of Scientific Resources, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Matthew H Seabolt
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Fengkun Yang
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Elizabeth Cebelinski
- Infectious Disease Laboratory, Minnesota Department of Health, St. Paul, MN 55101, USA
| | | | - Tianyi Hou
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Chengyi Chen
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Ming Chen
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Muchun Wan
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Na Li
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Michele C Hlavsa
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Dawn M Roellig
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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23
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Hernández-Castro C, Dashti A, Vusirikala A, Balasegaram S, Köster PC, Bailo B, Imaña E, López A, Llorente MT, González-Barrio D, Sánchez S, Carmena D. Prevalence and temporal dynamics of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Blastocystis sp. among toddlers attending day-care centres in Spain. A prospective molecular-based longitudinal study. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:213-223. [PMID: 36282323 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-022-04662-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Blastocystis sp. are common intestinal eukaryotic parasites affecting children in developed and resource-limited countries. Lack of information on the epidemiology and long-term stability in asymptomatic children complicates interpretation of transmission and pathogenesis. To assess the occurrence, genetic diversity, and temporal dynamics of intestinal eukaryotic parasites in young children, 679 stool samples from 125 toddlers attending six public day-care centres in Central Spain were collected bimonthly within a 1-year period. Detection and identification of species/genotypes were based on PCR and Sanger sequencing methods. Four eukaryotic species were identified: G. duodenalis (2.5‒31.6%), Cryptosporidium spp. (0.0‒2.4%), Blastocystis sp. (2.5‒6.4%), and Entamoeba dispar (0.0‒0.9%). Entamoeba histolytica and Enterocytozoon bieneusi were undetected. Sequence analyses identified assemblage A (63.6%) and B (36.4%) within G. duodenalis (n = 11), C. hominis (40%), C. parvum (40%), and C. wrairi (20%) within Cryptosporidium spp. (n = 5), and ST1 (3.8%), ST2 (46.2%), ST3 (15.4%), and ST4 (34.6%) within Blastocystis sp. (n = 26). Giardia duodenalis sub-assemblage AII/AIII was detected in a toddler for 10 consecutive months. Stable carriage of Blastocystis ST2 allele 9, ST3 allele 34, and ST4 allele 42 was demonstrated in five toddlers for up to 1 year. Conclusions: Giardia duodenalis and Blastocystis sp. were common in toddlers attending day-care centres in Central Spain. Long-term infection/colonization periods by the same genetic variant were observed for G. duodenalis (up to 10 months) and Blastocystis sp. (up to 12 months). What is Known: • Asymptomatic carriage of G. duodenalis and Blastocystis sp. is frequent in toddlers. • The epidemiology and long-term stability of these eukaryotes in asymptomatic young children is poorly understood. What is New: • Long-term colonization/infection periods by the same genetic variant were described for Blastocystis sp. (up to 12 months) and G. duodenalis (up to 10 months).
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Hernández-Castro
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.,Parasitology Group, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Corporation for the Study of Tropical Pathologies, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Alejandro Dashti
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Amoolya Vusirikala
- UK Field Epidemiology Training Programme, UK Health Security Agency, London, SE1 8UG, UK
| | | | - Pamela Carolina Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Bailo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Imaña
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea López
- Food and Waterborne Bacterial Infections Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Teresa Llorente
- Food and Waterborne Bacterial Infections Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - David González-Barrio
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Sánchez
- Food and Waterborne Bacterial Infections Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, 28220, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain. .,CIBER Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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24
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Tuemmers C, Fellenberg C, Pérez EJ, Paillaqueo J. Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in Horses from communities of the Mapuche native people, Araucanía Region, Chile. Equine Vet J 2023; 55:78-82. [PMID: 35253261 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no studies of potential zoonotic diseases in Mapuche communities' horses. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in horses of the Mapuche communities. STUDY DESIGN This was a cross-sectional study. METHODS Faecal samples from 100 randomly selected horses (n = 100) were taken from rural Mapuche communities from four municipalities from the Araucanía Region. These samples were processed with the modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique and grouped by sex, age and municipality. RESULTS The general prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. was 67.0% (n = 67). The prevalence was 51.0% (n = 51) in males and 49.0% (n = 49) in females, and there is no gender association to the presentation of Cryptosporidium spp. The prevalence by municipality was 60.0%, 80.0%, 64.0% and 64.0% in Curarrehue, Lonquimay, Padre las Casas and Teodoro Schmidt, respectively. The above shows no significant association between the sector and the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. The prevalence by age was 95.4% of horses tested positive for Cryptosporidium between birth and 6 years of age. About 27.3% of horses were tested positive in the age group between 7 and 10 years. There was no presence of Cryptosporidium spp. in the age group older than 11 years, showing a significant relationship between the age of the animal and the presence of Cryptosporidium (P ˂ 0.05). MAIN LIMITATIONS The sample analysis did not specifically identify the type of Cryptosporidium, and it was not possible to evaluate the zoonotic risk in the Mapuche communities. CONCLUSIONS Cryptosporidium spp. is present in working horses in Mapuche communities, with a 67.7% general prevalence, and there is a significant association between this parasite and the age of the horses, being higher in the age group between 0 and 6 years, with a prevalence of 95.4%. There may be a potential zoonotic risk in the Mapuche communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Tuemmers
- Veterinary Science and Public Health Department, Natural Resources Faculty, Catholic University of Temuco, Temuco, Chile
| | - Constanza Fellenberg
- Veterinary Science and Public Health Department, Natural Resources Faculty, Catholic University of Temuco, Temuco, Chile
| | - Eugenio J Pérez
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Javier Paillaqueo
- Veterinary Science and Public Health Department, Natural Resources Faculty, Catholic University of Temuco, Temuco, Chile
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25
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Mauriello A, Mari A, Nseir W, Saracco GM, Pellicano R. Diarrhea due to parasites: a short, updated point of view from the clinical setting. Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino) 2022; 68:463-469. [PMID: 35001606 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5985.21.03095-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Diarrhea represents a common manifestation of several gastrointestinal diseases. Infectious agents are the most common causes of diarrhea in developing countries, where the inadequate sanitation and hygiene are prevalent. In these countries, the scarcity of preventive measures as well as the limited health resources cause a substantial increase in incidence, morbidity and mortality due to infectious diseases, including diarrhea. Currently, with the availability of rapid and inexpensive air transportation millions of people travel for tourism, work and immigration from developing countries to industrialized countries and vice versa. This leads to a high number of imported pathogens such as parasites causing infectious diarrhea. Importantly, while most cases of parasitic diarrhea are short, mild and self-limited, other cases may be associated with chronic diarrhea and serious morbidity and mortality. The aim of the current review was to provide an update, from a clinician's point of view, of the main parasites causing diarrhea, with a focus on their diagnosis and management in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mauriello
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Amir Mari
- Unit of Gastroenterology, Nazareth Hospital, The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Nazareth, Israel
| | - William Nseir
- Department of Internal Medicine A, Baruch Padeh Medical Center, The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Nazareth, Israel
| | - Giorgio M Saracco
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,Unit of Gastroenterology, Molinette Hospital, Turin, Italy
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26
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Sánchez I, Dashti A, Köster PC, Bailo B, González N, Allende J, Stensvold CR, Carmena D, González-Barrio D. Development, Optimisation and Validation of a Novel Multiplex Real-Time PCR Method for the Simultaneous Detection of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis and Dientamoeba fragilis. Pathogens 2022; 11:1277. [PMID: 36365028 PMCID: PMC9693193 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The enteric protozoan parasites Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis and Dientamoeba fragilis are-to various extents-contributors to the burden of gastrointestinal illness in high-income countries. Detection of these pathogens by microscopy examination is challenging because of the limited sensitivity and need for specific staining procedures. We developed and optimised a new multiplex real-time PCR assay for the simultaneous detection of Cryptosporidium spp., G. duodenalis and D. fragilis in clinical (stool) samples. The diagnostic performance of the assay was evaluated against a large panel of well-characterised DNA samples positive for Cryptosporidium spp. (n = 126), G. duodenalis (n = 132) and D. fragilis (n = 49). The specificity of the test was assessed against a DNA panel from other intestinal or phylogenetically related parasites (n = 105) and faecal DNA from individuals without clinical manifestations (n = 12). The assay exhibited a diagnostic sensitivity of 0.90-0.97 and a diagnostic specificity of 1. The limit of detection was estimated for Cryptosporidium (1 oocyst) and G. duodenalis (5 × 10-4 cysts). The method allowed the detection of four Cryptosporidium species (C. hominis, C. parvum, C. meleagridis and C. cuniculus) and five G. duodenalis assemblages (A-E) without cross-reacting with other parasites belonging to the phyla Amoebozoa, Apicomplexa, Euglenozoa, Microsporidia, Nematoda and Platyhelminthes. This newly developed multiplex real-time PCR assay represents a novel alternative for the rapid and accurate detection of Cryptosporidium, G. duodenalis and D. fragilis in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alejandro Dashti
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pamela C. Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Bailo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Christen Rune Stensvold
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institute, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research Network (CIBER) in Infectious Diseases, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - David González-Barrio
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
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27
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Watier-Grillot S, Costa D, Petit C, Razakandrainibe R, Larréché S, Tong C, Demont G, Billetorte D, Mouly D, Fontan D, Velut G, Le Corre A, Beauvir JC, Mérens A, Favennec L, Pommier de Santi V. Cryptosporidiosis outbreaks linked to the public water supply in a military camp, France. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010776. [PMID: 36095017 PMCID: PMC9499286 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Contaminated drinking and recreational waters account for most of the reported Cryptosporidium spp. exposures in high-income countries. In June 2017, two successive cryptosporidiosis outbreaks occurred among service members in a military training camp located in Southwest France. Several other gastroenteritis outbreaks were previously reported in this camp, all among trainees in the days following their arrival, without any causative pathogen identification. Epidemiological, microbiological and environmental investigations were carried out to explain theses outbreaks. Material and methods Syndromic diagnosis using multiplex PCR was used for stool testing. Water samples (100 L) were collected at 10 points of the drinking water installations and enumeration of Cryptosporidium oocysts performed. The identification of Cryptosporidium species was performed using real-time 18S SSU rRNA PCR and confirmed by GP60 sequencing. Results A total of 100 human cases were reported with a global attack rate of 27.8%. Cryptosporidium spp. was identified in 93% of stool samples with syndromic multiplex PCR. The entire drinking water network was contaminated with Cryptosporidium spp. The highest level of contamination was found in groundwater and in the water leaving the treatment plant, with >1,000 oocysts per 100 L. The same Cryptosporidium hominis isolate subtype IbA10G2 was identified in patients’ stool and water samples. Several polluting activities were identified within the protection perimeters of the water resource. An additional ultrafiltration module was installed at the outlet of the water treatment plant. After several weeks, no Cryptosporidium oocysts were found in the public water supply. Conclusions After successive and unexplained gastroenteritis outbreaks, this investigation confirmed a waterborne outbreak due to Cryptosporidium hominis subtype IbA10G2. Our study demonstrates the value of syndromic diagnosis for gastroenteritis outbreak investigation. Our results also highlight the importance of better assessing the microbiological risk associated with raw water and the need for sensitive and easy-to-implement tools for parasite detection. Cryptosporidiosis remains a neglected infectious disease, even in high-income countries. Most of the reported cases and outbreaks are related to drinking water and recreational water contaminated with Cryptosporidium spp. In Europe, the search for Cryptosporidium spp. and other parasites in stool or water samples is not routinely performed by laboratories, especially in the absence of dedicated national guidance on testing. In France, cryptosporidiosis is not a notifiable disease. In order to better assess the pathogens involved in foodborne and waterborne disease outbreaks a new outbreak investigation strategy was implemented in the French Armed Forces including: systematic stool sampling, routine syndromic multiplex PCR diagnoses, and pathogens genotyping. After several unexplained gastroenteritis outbreaks in a military camp in France, we identified the same C. hominis IbA10G2 isolate in the stools of patients and in the entire water distribution network. The highest levels of contamination were found in groundwater and in the water leaving the treatment plant. Our study demonstrates the value of syndromic diagnosis for gastroenteritis outbreaks investigation and highlights the importance of better assessing the microbiological risks associated with raw water.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Damien Costa
- Rouen Normandy University, EA7510 ESCAPE, CNR Expert Laboratory for Cryptosporidiosis, Rouen, France
| | | | - Romy Razakandrainibe
- Rouen Normandy University, EA7510 ESCAPE, CNR Expert Laboratory for Cryptosporidiosis, Rouen, France
| | | | - Christelle Tong
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), Marseille, France
| | | | - David Billetorte
- Regional Health Service of Occitanie, Territorial Delegation, Montauban, France
| | - Damien Mouly
- Santé Publique France, Regional Office of Occitanie, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Guillaume Velut
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), Marseille, France
| | | | | | | | - Loïc Favennec
- Rouen Normandy University, EA7510 ESCAPE, CNR Expert Laboratory for Cryptosporidiosis, Rouen, France
| | - Vincent Pommier de Santi
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille University, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- * E-mail:
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28
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Masangkay FR, Milanez GD, Dionisio JD, Ormita LAGL, Alvarez AV, Karanis P. Well water sources simultaneous contamination with Cryptosporidium and Acanthamoeba in East-Southeast Asia and Acanthamoeba spp. in biofilms in the Philippines. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 837:155752. [PMID: 35533862 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is the leading agent of waterborne parasitic protozoan outbreaks and is the second leading cause of infant mortality due to diarrhoea worldwide. Acanthamoeba spp. causes Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) and a life-threatening condition known as granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE). The present study aimed to assess the water quality of an indigenous and a rural community for waterborne parasitic protozoan contamination. Aquatic samples (n = 22) were processed by filtration of 500 mL portion through a 1.2 μm pore size glass microfiber filter and eluted for light microscopy, culture in non-nutrient agar, and PCR analysis. Overall, 36% (8/22) of the investigated aquatic samples were positive for either Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts (13%; 3/22) or Acanthamoeba spp., (36%; 8/22) or both (13%; 3/22). Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts were detected in 27% (3/11) of wet season samples only while Acanthamoeba spp. were detected in 18% (2/11) and 55% (6/11) of wet and dry season samples, respectively. Subsequently, molecular detection for Acanthamoeba species identified A. lenticulata and A. hatchetti with 98-99% BLAST similarity. This is the first report on the simultaneous contamination of Cryptosporidium and Acanthamoeba in well water sources in East-Southeast Asia, the first detection of Acanthamoeba spp. in biofilms in the Philippines, and the longest viability demonstrated for A. lenticulata in two-year-old water samples stored at room temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick R Masangkay
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila 1008, Philippines.
| | - Giovanni D Milanez
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila 1008, Philippines
| | - Joseph D Dionisio
- Department of Medical Technology, Far Eastern University-Manila, Manila 1015, Philippines
| | - Luzelle Anne G-L Ormita
- Department of Psychology, Far Eastern University-Manila, Manila 1015, Philippines; Community Extension Services, Far Eastern University-Manila, Manila 1015, Philippines
| | - Abel V Alvarez
- Community Extension Services, Far Eastern University-Manila, Manila 1015, Philippines
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medical and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne 50923, Germany; Medical School, Department of Basic and Clinical Science, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, 2417, Cyprus.
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29
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Franceschelli A, Bonadonna L, Cacciò SM, Sannella AR, Cintori C, Gargiulo R, Coccia AM, Paradiso R, Iaconelli M, Briancesco R, Tripodi A. An outbreak of cryptosporidiosis associated with drinking water in north-eastern Italy, August 2019: microbiological and environmental investigations. EURO SURVEILLANCE : BULLETIN EUROPEEN SUR LES MALADIES TRANSMISSIBLES = EUROPEAN COMMUNICABLE DISEASE BULLETIN 2022; 27. [PMID: 36052722 PMCID: PMC9438396 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2022.27.35.2200038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a leading global cause of waterborne disease, with many reported outbreaks related to main water supplies. In August 2019, an outbreak of cryptosporidiosis involving 80 cases occurred among 114 vacationers in a small municipality located in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, north-eastern Italy. After excluding a potential food-borne outbreak, the epidemiological investigation focussed on the hypothesis of a waterborne outbreak. This was confirmed by the finding of Cryptosporidium oocysts in stools of the cases and in water samples from the municipal water network. Molecular characterisation revealed the zoonotic species Cryptosporidium parvum as the causative agent. A single subtype (IIdA25G1) was found among all cases, and in one of two positive water samples. The municipality's water supply used spring water that only received a disinfection treatment insufficient to inactivate the parasite. Possible entry means into the water mains were found through further environmental investigations. As these types of water supplies are particularly vulnerable to various environmental factors, a control system based on the risk assessment of each phase of the water supply chain is required to guarantee water safety. Effective methods for detection of protozoan pathogens, which are generally excluded from routine water supply analysis, should be applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando Franceschelli
- Food Hygiene and Nutrition Service, Public Health Department, Local Health Unit of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Lucia Bonadonna
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone M Cacciò
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Rosa Sannella
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Christian Cintori
- Prevention Service and Collective Public Health, General Directorate of Care to Person, Health and Welfare, Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy.,Public Hygiene Service, Public Health Department, Local Health Unit of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Raffaele Gargiulo
- Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology, Local Health Unit of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Coccia
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Paradiso
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello Iaconelli
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Briancesco
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Tripodi
- Food Hygiene and Nutrition Service, Public Health Department, Local Health Unit of Modena, Modena, Italy
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30
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Lanrewaju AA, Enitan-Folami AM, Sabiu S, Edokpayi JN, Swalaha FM. Global public health implications of human exposure to viral contaminated water. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:981896. [PMID: 36110296 PMCID: PMC9468673 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.981896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteric viruses are common waterborne pathogens found in environmental water bodies contaminated with either raw or partially treated sewage discharge. Examples of these viruses include adenovirus, rotavirus, noroviruses, and other caliciviruses and enteroviruses like coxsackievirus and polioviruses. They have been linked with gastroenteritis, while some enteric viruses have also been implicated in more severe infections such as encephalitis, meningitis, hepatitis (hepatitis A and E viruses), cancer (polyomavirus), and myocarditis (enteroviruses). Therefore, this review presents information on the occurrence of enteric viruses of public health importance, diseases associated with human exposure to enteric viruses, assessment of their presence in contaminated water, and their removal in water and wastewater sources. In order to prevent illnesses associated with human exposure to viral contaminated water, we suggest the regular viral monitoring of treated wastewater before discharging it into the environment. Furthermore, we highlight the need for more research to focus on the development of more holistic disinfection methods that will inactivate waterborne viruses in municipal wastewater discharges, as this is highly needed to curtail the public health effects of human exposure to contaminated water. Moreover, such a method must be devoid of disinfection by-products that have mutagenic and carcinogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abimbola Motunrayo Enitan-Folami
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Abimbola Motunrayo Enitan-Folami,
| | - Saheed Sabiu
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Joshua Nosa Edokpayi
- Water and Environmental Management Research Group, Engineering and Agriculture, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
| | - Feroz Mahomed Swalaha
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
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Krumkamp R, Conraths FJ, Caccio S, Schares G, Hogan B, Winter D, Jaeger A, Melhem S, Rakotozandrindrainy N, May J, Rakotozandrindrainy R, Eibach D. Clustering of Cryptosporidium species infections among sheep and cattle but not children in remote highland communities of Madagascar. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:304. [PMID: 36031635 PMCID: PMC9422120 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05434-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to identify local transmission patterns of Cryptosporidium spp. infections among livestock and humans in four extremely rural and remote highland communities in Madagascar. Methods In this cross-sectional study, households were randomly sampled throughout a 1-year study period, with one feces sample collected from each child (≤ 5 years old), sheep and cattle. Cryptosporidium spp. were identified using a nested PCR assay targeting the 18S ribosomal RNA gene. All samples positive for Cryptosporidium hominis were further subtyped by sequencing the 60-kDa glycoprotein gene (gp60). Spatial clustering methods were applied to analyze potential transmission patterns. Results In total, 252 households participated in the study, and samples from 197 children, 862 cattle and 334 sheep were collected and included in the study. Of the samples collected, 11 (5.6%) from children, 30 (3.5%) from cattle and 42 (12.6%) from sheep tested positive for Cryptosporidium spp. Very little overlap in the species distribution between human and animal infections was found. Global (overall) and local (spatially defined) clustering was observed for Cryptosporidium spp. infections in sheep and for Cryptosporidium xiaoi/bovis infections among sheep and cattle. Discussion The results of this analysis do not support the occurrence of defined disease outbreaks, rather they point to a continuous series of transmission events that are spatially aggregated. Despite the close coexistence between humans, sheep and cattle in the study area, mutual transmission was not observed. Hence, the study underlines the importance of sustained sanitation and hygiene measures to prevent cryptosporidiosis transmission among infants, since asymptomatic children serve as an infection reservoir. Similarly, the study highlights the importance of improving hygiene to reduce the transmission of Cryptosporidium spp. in livestock, an infection with serious consequences, especially in newborn calves. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05434-0.
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First report of rodent-adapted Cryptosporidium wrairi in an immunocompetent child, Spain. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:3007-3011. [PMID: 35906999 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07607-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is a leading cause of childhood diarrhoea. Two species, Cryptosporidium hominis and Cryptosporidium parvum, are responsible for most confirmed cases globally. Close contact with pet animals can be an unnoticed source of children infections. We describe a case of infection by rodent-adapted Cryptosporidium wrairi in a 22-month-old immunocompetent toddler with no clinical manifestations in close contact with a pet guinea pig and poor personal hygiene practices in Majadahonda (Madrid, Spain). Attempts to determine the C. wrairi genotype family at the 60-kDa glycoprotein marker failed repeatedly. This is the first description of C. wrairi in a human host. Although a spurious infection cannot be completely ruled out, data presented here suggest that C. wrairi can be transmitted zoonotically.
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Ryan U, Hill K, Deere D. Review of generic screening level assumptions for quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) for estimating public health risks from Australian drinking water sources contaminated with Cryptosporidium by recreational activities. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 220:118659. [PMID: 35635918 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
As urban communities continue to grow, demand for recreational access (including swimming) in drinking water sources have increased, yet relatively little is understood about the public health implications this poses for drinking water consumers. Preventative risk-based approaches to catchment management, informed by quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA), requires accurate input data to effectively model risks. A sound understanding of the knowledge gaps is also important to comprehend levels of uncertainty and help prioritise research needs. Cryptosporidium is one of the most important causes of waterborne outbreaks of gastroenteritis globally due to its resistance to chlorine. This review was undertaken by Water Research Australia to provide the most up-to-date information on current Cryptosporidium epidemiological data and underlying assumptions for exposure assessment, dose response and risk assessment for generic components of QMRA for Cryptosporidium and highlights priorities for common research. Key interim recommendations and guidelines for numerical values for relatively simple screening level QMRA modelling are provided to help support prospective studies of risks to drinking water consumers from Cryptosporidium due to body-contact recreation in source water. The review does not cover site-specific considerations, such as the levels of activity in the source water, the influence of dilution and inactivation in reservoirs, or water treatment. Although the focus is Australia, the recommendations and numerical values developed in this review, and the highlighted research priorities, are broadly applicable across all drinking source water sources that allow recreational activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Perth, Australia.
| | - Kelly Hill
- Water Research Australia, 250 Victoria Square, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dan Deere
- Water Futures, Sydney, Australia and Water Research Australia, Australia
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Kaupke A, Rzeżutka A. Population genetics of Cryptosporidium parvum subtypes in cattle in Poland: the geographical change of strain prevalence and circulation over time. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:263. [PMID: 35794543 PMCID: PMC9258080 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03328-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum) is a cosmopolitan parasite that infects various livestock animals including cattle. Microsatellite typing tools for identification of C. parvum subtypes are currently employed to better understand the species-specific epidemiology of cattle cryptosporidiosis. The aim of this study was to analyse the population genetics of C. parvum strains infecting cattle and recognise geographical distribution and time-span correlations in subtype prevalence in Poland. In total, 1601 faecal samples were collected from 2014 to 2018 from healthy cattle from dairy, meat and mixed breeds at the age of 1 week to 4 months. The 267 farms visited were randomly selected and represented all Polish provinces. PCR–RFLP based identification of C. parvum at the 18 small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) locus was performed, followed by strain subtyping by GP60-PCR. Results The overall prevalence of C. parvum in Polish cattle was estimated at 6.2% (100/1601). Animals below the age of 1 month were the major host for this parasite. Excluding one breed, that of dairy-meat mixed, there were no significant differences observed between breed and presence of C. parvum infections (95% TPIAll breeds: 1.67–73.53%; POPR = 0.05—0.95). Infected animals were detected in 15 out of 16 Polish provinces, with significant regional prevalence diffrences (Kruskal–Wallis rank sum test, Kruskal–Wallis χ2 = 13.46, p < 0.001). When the population genetics of C. parvum strains were analysed, 11 parasite subtypes from the IIa and IId genetic families were identified. Compared to other parasite strains, IIaA17G1R1 and IIaA17G2R1 appeared at statistically significantly higher frequency (F-test, F = 3.39; p = 0.0003). The prevalence of C. parvum subtypes in cattle was breed-related (Chi-squared test, χ2 = 143.6; p < 0.001). Conclusions The analysis of the population genetics of C. parvum subtypes showed that strains from the IIa subtype family predominated in the tested cattle population. However, relations in changes of subtype prevalence and circulation over time were observed. They were associated with the disappearance of some strains and emergence of new variants from the same genetic family in different geographical locations. C. parvum subtypes from the IIa allele family predominated in the tested cattle. The prevalence of C. parvum subtypes in cattle was breed-related. Dynamicity in the population C. parvum strains circulating in cattle was shown.
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Dashti A, Alonso H, Escolar-Miñana C, Köster PC, Bailo B, Carmena D, González-Barrio D. Evaluation of a Novel Commercial Real-Time PCR Assay for the Simultaneous Detection of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Entamoeba histolytica. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0053122. [PMID: 35502919 PMCID: PMC9241732 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00531-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Entamoeba histolytica are the most common diarrhea-causing protozoan species globally. Misdiagnosis is a concern for asymptomatic and chronic infections. Multiplexing, i.e., the detection of more than one parasite in a single test by real-time PCR, allows high diagnostic performance with favorable cost-effectiveness. We conducted a clinical evaluation of the VIASURE Cryptosporidium, Giardia, & E. histolytica real-time PCR assay (CerTest Biotec, San Mateo de Gállego, Spain) against a large panel (n = 358) of well-characterized DNA samples positive for Cryptosporidium spp. (n = 96), G. duodenalis (n = 115), E. histolytica (n = 25), and other parasitic species of the phyla Amoebozoa (n = 11), Apicomplexa (n = 14), Euglenozoa (n = 8), Heterokonta (n = 42), Metamonada (n = 37), Microsporidia (n = 4), and Nematoda (n = 6). DNA samples were obtained from clinical stool specimens or cultured isolates in a national reference center. Estimated sensitivity and specificity were 0.96 and 0.99 for Cryptosporidium spp., 0.94 and 1 for G. duodenalis, and 0.96 and 1 for E. histolytica, respectively. Positive and negative predictive values were calculated as 1 and 0.98 for Cryptosporidium spp., 0.99 and 0.98 for G. duodenalis, and 1 and 0.99 for E. histolytica, respectively. The assay identified six Cryptosporidium species (Cryptosporidium hominis, Cryptosporidium parvum, Cryptosporidium canis, Cryptosporidium felis, Cryptosporidium scrofarum, and Cryptosporidium ryanae) and four G. duodenalis assemblages (A, B, C, and F). The VIASURE assay provides rapid and accurate simultaneous detection and identification of the most commonly occurring species and genetic variants of diarrhea-causing parasitic protozoa in humans. IMPORTANCE Thorough independent assessment of the diagnostic performance of novel diagnostic assays is essential to ascertain their true usefulness and applicability in routine clinical practice. This is particularly true for commercially available kits based on multiplex real-time PCR aimed to detect and differentiate multiple pathogens in a single biological sample. In this study, we conducted a clinical evaluation of the VIASURE Cryptosporidium, Giardia, & E. histolytica real-time PCR assay (CerTest Biotec) for the detection and identification of the diarrhea-causing enteric protozoan parasites Cryptosporidium spp., G. duodenalis, and E. histolytica. A large panel of well-characterized DNA samples from clinical stool specimens or cultured isolates from a reference center was used for this purpose. The VIASURE assay demonstrated good performance for the routine testing of these pathogens in clinical microbiological laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Dashti
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Henar Alonso
- Department of Microbiology, Paediatrics, Radiology, and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Saragossa, Spain
| | - Cristina Escolar-Miñana
- Department of Animal Production and Food Science, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Zaragoza, Saragossa, Spain
| | - Pamela C. Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Bailo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - David González-Barrio
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
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Corsi GI, Tichkule S, Sannella AR, Vatta P, Asnicar F, Segata N, Jex AR, van Oosterhout C, Cacciò SM. Recent genetic exchanges and admixture shape the genome and population structure of the zoonotic pathogen Cryptosporidium parvum. Mol Ecol 2022; 32:2633-2645. [PMID: 35652748 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum is a globally distributed zoonotic pathogen and a major cause of diarrhoeal disease in humans and ruminants. The parasite's life cycle comprises an obligatory sexual phase, during which genetic exchanges can occur between previously isolated lineages. Here, we compare 32 whole genome sequences from human- and ruminant-derived parasite isolates collected across Europe, Egypt and China. We identify three strongly supported clusters that comprise a mix of isolates from different host species, geographic origins, and subtypes. We show that: (1) recombination occurs between ruminant isolates into human isolates; (2) these recombinant regions can be passed on to other human subtypes through gene flow and population admixture; (3) there have been multiple genetic exchanges, and most are likely recent; (4) putative virulence genes are significantly enriched within these genetic exchanges, and (5) this results in an increase in their nucleotide diversity. We carefully dissect the phylogenetic sequence of two genetic exchanges, illustrating the long-term evolutionary consequences of these events. Our results suggest that increased globalisation and close human-animal contacts increase the opportunity for genetic exchanges between previously isolated parasite lineages, resulting in spillover and spillback events. We discuss how this can provide a novel substrate for natural selection at genes involved in host-parasite interactions, thereby potentially altering the dynamic coevolutionary equilibrium in the Red Queens arms race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia I Corsi
- CIBO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy.,Center for non-coding RNA in Technology and Health, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Swapnil Tichkule
- Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Anna Rosa Sannella
- Department of Infectious Diseases, European Union Reference Laboratory for Parasites, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Vatta
- Department of Infectious Diseases, European Union Reference Laboratory for Parasites, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Aaron R Jex
- Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Cock van Oosterhout
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Simone M Cacciò
- Department of Infectious Diseases, European Union Reference Laboratory for Parasites, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome, Italy
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Molecular identification of Cryptosporidium species from domestic ruminants and wild reptiles in Cyprus. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2193-2198. [PMID: 35488924 PMCID: PMC9055218 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07527-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
The presence of Cryptosporidium species in faecal samples of 32 sheep (Aries bovis), 10 goats (Capra circus), 1 blunt nose viper (Macrovipera lebetina lebetina), 3 Kotschy’s geckos (Mediodactylus kotschyi) and 6 wild stellagamas (Stellagama stellio cypriaca) in Cyprus were investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. Cryptosporidium species were found in 9/32 sheep, 5/10 goats, 2/3 Kotschy’s geckos and 2/6 stellagamas faecal samples based on the sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene. Subtyping was achieved based on the sequencing of the gp60 gene. Four different species have been identified: Cryptosporidium parvum in goats (subtype IIaA15G1R1), C. xiaoi (subtypes XXIIId and XXIIIl) and C. ubiquitum (subtype XIIa) in sheep and C. varanii and C. parvum in lizards; the viper snake sample was negative. This is the first report on the molecular identification of a variety of Cryptosporidium species from domestic ruminants and wild reptiles in the Republic of Cyprus.
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Sjöström M, Arvidsson M, Söderström L, Lilja M, Lindh J, Widerström M. Outbreak of Cryptosporidium hominis in northern Sweden: persisting symptoms in a 5-year follow-up. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2043-2049. [PMID: 35451705 PMCID: PMC9192462 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07524-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In 2010-2011, a waterborne outbreak of the parasite, Cryptosporidium hominis, affected approximately 27,000 inhabitants in the city of Östersund, Sweden. Previous research suggested that post-infectious symptoms, such as gastrointestinal symptoms and joint pain, could persist for up to 2 years after the initial infection. In this study, we investigated whether the parasite caused post-infectious sequelae for up to 5 years after the outbreak. Prospective cohort study. A randomly selected cohort of individuals residing in Östersund at the time of the outbreak was sent a postal questionnaire in 2011. Responders were sent a follow-up questionnaire in 2016 and completed items on whether they experienced a list of symptoms. We examined whether outbreak cases were more likely than non-cases to report post-infectious symptoms 5 years later. We analysed data using logistic regression and calculated odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. The analysis included 626 individuals. Among the 262 individuals infected during the outbreak, 56.5% reported symptoms at follow-up. Compared to non-cases, outbreak cases were more likely to report watery diarrhoea, diarrhoea, swollen joints, abdominal pain, bloating, joint discomfort, acid indigestion, alternating bowel habits, joint pain, ocular pain, nausea, and fatigue at the follow-up, after adjusting for age and sex. Our findings suggested that cryptosporidiosis was mainly associated with gastrointestinal- and joint-related post-infectious symptoms for up to 5 years after the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Sjöström
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - M Arvidsson
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - L Söderström
- Unit of Research, Education and Development-Östersund Hospital, Östersund, Sweden
| | - M Lilja
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Unit of Research, Education, and Development, Östersund Hospital, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - J Lindh
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - M Widerström
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Robinson G, Pérez-Cordón G, Hamilton C, Katzer F, Connelly L, Alexander CL, Chalmers RM. Validation of a multilocus genotyping scheme for subtyping Cryptosporidium parvum for epidemiological purposes. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2022; 27:e00151. [PMID: 35498551 PMCID: PMC9043402 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2022.e00151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Subtyping Cryptosporidium parvum for outbreak investigations or epidemiological surveillance usually relies on DNA sequence analysis of a gene coding for a 60 KDa glycoprotein (gp60). Although gp60 can be useful for allelic discrimination and to help investigate sources and routes of transmission, the presence of common subtypes and recombination during the parasite's sexual life-cycle demand a multilocus-based method for more discriminatory genotyping. While whole genome sequencing would provide the ultimate approach, it is a time consuming and expensive option for faecal parasites such as Cryptosporidium that occur at low density and are difficult to propagate routinely. In this study, we selected and evaluated a panel of previously identified variable-number tandem-repeat (VNTR) markers, to establish a multilocus genotyping scheme based on fragment sizing, appropriate for inter-laboratory surveillance and outbreak investigations. Seven VNTR markers were validated in vitro and demonstrated typeability of 0.85 and discriminatory power of 0.99. The discriminatory power was much greater than the currently used gp60 sequencing (0.74), which identified 26 subtypes, compared to 100 different MLVA profiles within the same sample set. The assay was robust, with repeatable results and reproducibility across three laboratories demonstrating the scheme was suitable for inter-laboratory comparison of C. parvum subtypes. As the majority of genotypes (79%) were unique among epidemiologically unrelated samples, there was efficiency to infer linkage, and epidemiological concordance was observed in historical outbreaks. We propose that the multilocus variable number of tandem repeats analysis scheme is suitable to assist outbreak investigations.
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Costa D, Razakandrainibe R, Basmaciyan L, Raibaut J, Delaunay P, Morio F, Gargala G, Villier V, Mouhajir A, Levy B, Rieder C, Larreche S, Lesthelle S, Coron N, Menu E, Demar M, de Santi VP, Blanc V, Valot S, Dalle F, Favennec L. A summary of cryptosporidiosis outbreaks reported in France and overseas departments, 2017–2020. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2022; 27:e00160. [PMID: 35586547 PMCID: PMC9108463 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2022.e00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a known foodborne pathogen, ranked fifth out of 24 among foodborne parasites in terms of importance and a cause of many cryptosporidiosis outbreaks worldwide. In France, very few outbreaks were reported before 2017, and data recently obtained by the Expert Laboratory of the Cryptosporidiosis National Reference Center (CNR-LE-Cryptosporidiosis) have shown that outbreaks are in fact common and frequently underreported. In this work, we aim to report the characteristics of outbreaks detected in France during the period 2017–2020 and present a summary of investigations carried out by the CNR-LE-Cryptosporidiosis. During the study period, there were eleven cryptosporidiosis outbreaks, including three with no identified origin. Among the eight identified outbreaks: six were due to water contamination (five tap water and one recreational water), one was due to direct contact with infected calves, and one was due to consumption of contaminated curd cheese. Among these outbreaks, five of them exceeded one hundred cases. Recent results obtained by the CNR-LE-Cryptosporidiosis revealed the multiannual occurrence of Cryptosporidium outbreaks in France. Waterborne outbreaks were more frequently detected, while foodborne outbreaks which are more difficult to detect were likely underreported. Massive Cryptosporidium outbreaks were detected in France recently. Waterborne origin appeared predominant. Foodborne origin is probably strongly neglected. Develop adapted monitoring and preventing strategies could reduce cryptosporidiosis
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Love NK, Elliot AJ, Chalmers RM, Douglas A, Gharbia S, McCormick J, Hughes H, Morbey R, Oliver I, Vivancos R, Smith G. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gastrointestinal infection trends in England, February-July 2020. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e050469. [PMID: 35314468 PMCID: PMC8968111 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish the impact of the first 6 months of the COVID-19 outbreak response on gastrointestinal (GI) infection trends in England. DESIGN Retrospective ecological study using routinely collected national and regional surveillance data from seven UK Health Security Agency coordinated laboratory, outbreak and syndromic surveillance systems using key dates of UK governmental policy change to assign phases for comparison between 2020 and historic data. RESULTS Decreases in GI illness activity were observed across all surveillance indicators as COVID-19 cases began to peak. Compared with the 5-year average (2015-2019), during the first 6 months of the COVID-19 response, there was a 52% decrease in GI outbreaks reported (1544 vs 3208 (95% CI 2938 to 3478)) and a 34% decrease in laboratory confirmed cases (27 859 vs 42 495 (95% CI 40 068 to 44 922)). GI indicators began to rise during the first lockdown and lockdown easing, although all remained substantially lower than historic figures. Reductions in laboratory confirmed cases were observed across all age groups and both sexes, with geographical heterogeneity observed in diagnosis trends. Health seeking behaviour changed substantially, with attendances decreasing prior to lockdown across all indicators. CONCLUSIONS There has been a marked change in trends of GI infections in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The drivers of this change are likely to be multifactorial; while changes in health seeking behaviour, pressure on diagnostic services and surveillance system ascertainment have undoubtably played a role, there has likely been a true decrease in the incidence for some pathogens resulting from the control measures and restrictions implemented. This suggests that if some of these changes in behaviour such as improved hand hygiene were maintained, then we could potentially see sustained reductions in the burden of GI illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola K Love
- UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alex J Elliot
- UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Emergency Preparedness and Response, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rachel M Chalmers
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales Microbiology and Health Protection, Singleton Hospital, Swansea, UK
| | | | | | | | - Helen Hughes
- UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Roger Morbey
- UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Emergency Preparedness and Response, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Isabel Oliver
- UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Roberto Vivancos
- UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Gillian Smith
- UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Emergency Preparedness and Response, King's College London, London, UK
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42
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Tichkule S, Cacciò SM, Robinson G, Chalmers RM, Mueller I, Emery-Corbin SJ, Eibach D, Tyler KM, van Oosterhout C, Jex AR. Global population genomics of two subspecies of Cryptosporidium hominis during 500 years of evolution. Mol Biol Evol 2022; 39:6550530. [PMID: 35302613 PMCID: PMC9004413 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msac056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is a major global health problem and a primary cause of diarrhea, particularly in young children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The zoonotic Cryptosporidium parvum and anthroponotic Cryptosporidium hominis cause most human infections. Here, we present a comprehensive whole-genome study of C. hominis, comprising 114 isolates from 16 countries within five continents. We detect two lineages with distinct biology and demography, which diverged circa 500 years ago. We consider these lineages two subspecies and propose the names C. hominis hominis and C. hominis aquapotentis (gp60 subtype IbA10G2). In our study, C. h. hominis is almost exclusively represented by isolates from LMICs in Africa and Asia and appears to have undergone recent population contraction. In contrast, C. h. aquapotentis was found in high-income countries, mainly in Europe, North America, and Oceania, and appears to be expanding. Notably, C. h. aquapotentis is associated with high rates of direct human-to-human transmission, which may explain its success in countries with well-developed environmental sanitation infrastructure. Intriguingly, we detected genomic regions of introgression following secondary contact between the subspecies. This resulted in high diversity and divergence in genomic islands of putative virulence genes, including muc5 (CHUDEA2_430) and a hypothetical protein (CHUDEA6_5270). This diversity is maintained by balancing selection, suggesting a co-evolutionary arms race with the host. Finally, we find that recent gene flow from C. h. aquapotentis to C. h. hominis, likely associated with increased human migration, maybe driving the evolution of more virulent C. hominis variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swapnil Tichkule
- Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Simone M Cacciò
- Department of Infectious Disease, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Guy Robinson
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales Microbiology, Singleton Hospital, Swansea, UK.,Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, UK
| | - Rachel M Chalmers
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales Microbiology, Singleton Hospital, Swansea, UK.,Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, UK
| | - Ivo Mueller
- Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Samantha J Emery-Corbin
- Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Daniel Eibach
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine Hamburg, Bernhard-Nocht-Strasse 74, 20359 Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Germany
| | - Kevin M Tyler
- Biomedical Research Centre, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK.,Center of Excellence for Bionanoscience Research, King Abdul Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Cock van Oosterhout
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Aaron R Jex
- Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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43
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Essendi WM, Muleke C, Miheso M, Otachi E. Genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium species in Njoro Sub County, Nakuru, Kenya. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:262-271. [PMID: 35299918 PMCID: PMC8901856 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01444-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. cause cryptosporidiosis in humans through zoonotic and anthroponotic transmission. Previous studies illustrated the significance of domestic animals as reservoirs of this parasite. Cryptosporidium occurs in Njoro River; a main source of water to humans and animals. However, there is no information on the Cryptosporidium spp. and genotypes circulating in Njoro Sub County. A total of 2174 samples from humans, cattle, chickens, sheep and goats were assessed for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. Thirty-three positive samples were subsequently successfully sequenced and compared to Cryptosporidium sequences in the GenBank repository using NCBI's (National Center for Biotechnology Information) online BLAST (Basic Local Alignment Search Tool) algorithmic program. Sequence alignment was done using the Clustal W program and phylogenetic analysis was executed in MEGA X (Molecular Evolutionary Genetics Analysis version X). The prevalence of cryptosporidiosis in Njoro Sub County is 6.99%. Cryptosporidium spp. present in the watershed showed great genetic diversity and nine Cryptosporidium species were recorded: Cryptosporidium parvum, Cryptosporidium hominis, Cryptosporidium ubiquitum, Cryptosporidium meleagridis, Cryptosporidium andersoni, Cryptosporidium baileyi, Cryptosporidium muris, Cryptosporidium xiaoi and Cryptosporidium viatorum. This is the first study to report the presence of C. viatorum in Kenya. Cattle is the major reservoir of zoonotic Cryptosporidium spp. while goats harbored the lowest number of species. Humans and domestic animals drink the contaminated water from Njoro River, humans are therefore, exposed to a high cryptosporidiosis risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles Muleke
- Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya
| | - Manfred Miheso
- Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Food Crops Research Centre Njoro, Njoro, Kenya
| | - Elick Otachi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya
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44
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Ahlinder J, Svedberg AL, Nystedt A, Dryselius R, Jacobsson K, Hägglund M, Brindefalk B, Forsman M, Ottoson J, Troell K. Use of metagenomic microbial source tracking to investigate the source of a foodborne outbreak of cryptosporidiosis. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2022; 26:e00142. [PMID: 35024477 PMCID: PMC8728467 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2021.e00142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite of global public health importance that causes gastroenteritis in a variety of vertebrate hosts, with many human outbreaks reported yearly, often from ingestion of contaminated water or food. Despite the major public health implications, little is typically known about sources of contamination of disease outbreaks caused by Cryptosporidium. Here, we study a national foodborne outbreak resulted from infection with Cryptosporidium parvum via romaine lettuce, with the main goal to trace the source of the parasite. To do so, we combined traditional outbreak investigation methods with molecular detection and characterization methods (i.e. PCR based typing, amplicon and shotgun sequencing) of romaine lettuce samples collected at the same farm from which the contaminated food was produced. Using 18S rRNA typing, we detected C. parvum in two out of three lettuce samples, which was supported by detections in the metagenome analysis. Microbial source tracking analysis of the lettuce samples suggested sewage water as a likely source of the contamination, albeit with some uncertainty. In addition, the high degree of overlap in bacterial species content with a public human gut microbial database corroborated the source tracking results. The combination of traditional and molecular based methods applied here is a promising tool for future source tracking investigations of food- and waterborne outbreaks of Cryptosporidium spp. and can help to control and mitigate contamination risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Ahlinder
- CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency, FOI, Umeå, Sweden
| | - A.-L. Svedberg
- Department of Infection control, Region Norrbotten, Luleå, Sweden
| | - A. Nystedt
- Department of Infection control, Region Norrbotten, Luleå, Sweden
| | - R. Dryselius
- Department of Biology, National Food Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - K. Jacobsson
- Department of Biology, National Food Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - M. Hägglund
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Clinical Genomics Facility, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - B. Brindefalk
- CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency, FOI, Umeå, Sweden
| | - M. Forsman
- CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency, FOI, Umeå, Sweden
| | - J. Ottoson
- Department of Risk and benefit assessment, National Food Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - K. Troell
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala university, Uppsala, Sweden
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45
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Hoque S, Mavrides DE, Pinto P, Costas S, Begum N, Azevedo-Ribeiro C, Liapi M, Kváč M, Malas S, Gentekaki E, Tsaousis AD. High Occurrence of Zoonotic Subtypes of Cryptosporidiumparvum in Cypriot Dairy Farms. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10030531. [PMID: 35336110 PMCID: PMC8951114 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10030531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum is one of the major causes of neonatal calf diarrhoea resulting in reduced farm productivity and compromised animal welfare worldwide. Livestock act as a major reservoir of this parasite, which can be transmitted to humans directly and/or indirectly, posing a public health risk. Research reports on the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in ruminants from east Mediterranean countries, including Cyprus, are limited. This study is the first to explore the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in cattle up to 24 months old on the island of Cyprus. A total of 242 faecal samples were collected from 10 dairy cattle farms in Cyprus, all of which were screened for Cryptosporidium spp. using nested-PCR amplification targeting the small subunit of the ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) gene. The 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene was also sequenced for the samples identified as Cryptosporidium parvum-positive to determine the subtypes present. The occurrence of Cryptosporidium was 43.8% (106/242) with at least one positive isolate in each farm sampled. Cryptosporidium bovis, Cryptosporidium ryanae and C. parvum were the only species identified, while the prevalence per farm ranged from 20–64%. Amongst these, the latter was the predominant species, representing 51.8% of all positive samples, followed by C. bovis (21.7%) and C. ryanae (31.1%). Five C. parvum subtypes were identified, four of which are zoonotic—IIaA14G1R1, IIaA15G1R1, IIaA15G2R1 and IIaA18G2R1. IIaA14G1R1 was the most abundant, representing 48.2% of all C. parvum positive samples, and was also the most widespread. This is the first report of zoonotic subtypes of C. parvum circulating in Cyprus. These results highlight the need for further research into the parasite focusing on its diversity, prevalence, host range and transmission dynamics on the island.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumaiya Hoque
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK; (S.H.); (P.P.); (S.C.); (N.B.); (C.A.-R.)
| | - Daphne E. Mavrides
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia 2408, Cyprus; (D.E.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Pedro Pinto
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK; (S.H.); (P.P.); (S.C.); (N.B.); (C.A.-R.)
| | - Silvia Costas
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK; (S.H.); (P.P.); (S.C.); (N.B.); (C.A.-R.)
| | - Nisa Begum
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK; (S.H.); (P.P.); (S.C.); (N.B.); (C.A.-R.)
| | - Claudia Azevedo-Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK; (S.H.); (P.P.); (S.C.); (N.B.); (C.A.-R.)
| | - Maria Liapi
- Veterinary Services of Cyprus, Nicosia 1417, Cyprus;
| | - Martin Kváč
- Biology Centre CAS, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic;
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Stavros Malas
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia 2408, Cyprus; (D.E.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand;
- Gut Microbiome Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
| | - Anastasios D. Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK; (S.H.); (P.P.); (S.C.); (N.B.); (C.A.-R.)
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia 2408, Cyprus; (D.E.M.); (S.M.)
- Correspondence: or
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46
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Baz-González E, Martín-Carrillo N, García-Livia K, Foronda P. Molecular Detection of Cryptosporidium cuniculus in Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) from Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9020091. [PMID: 35202344 PMCID: PMC8877424 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9020091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium cuniculus is a zoonotic parasite responsible for cryptosporidiosis cases and outbreaks in both humans and rabbits. Since there are no molecular Cryptosporidium spp. infection data in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) from Spain, our aim was to gather information about this parasite in wild European rabbits from Tenerife, Canary Islands (Spain). A total of 100 faecal samples were collected from rabbits from eight municipalities of Tenerife. Microscopic analysis showed that 4.0% of the samples presented structures compatible with Cryptosporidium oocyst. A nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene fragments was carried out, and sequencing confirmed the identity of C. cuniculus in one sample (1.0%). The sample was successfully subtyped using nested PCR analysis of the 60-kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene as the subtype VbA26R3. This study confirms the presence of C. cuniculus in wild rabbits from Tenerife, providing new information on the occurrence of this zoonotic parasite. Further studies are required to better understand the epidemiology of Cryptosporidium spp. in wild rabbits in Spain and their possible public health repercussions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Baz-González
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain; (E.B.-G.); (N.M.-C.); (K.G.-L.)
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Natalia Martín-Carrillo
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain; (E.B.-G.); (N.M.-C.); (K.G.-L.)
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Katherine García-Livia
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain; (E.B.-G.); (N.M.-C.); (K.G.-L.)
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Pilar Foronda
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain; (E.B.-G.); (N.M.-C.); (K.G.-L.)
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
- Correspondence:
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47
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McKerr C, Chalmers RM, Elwin K, Ayres H, Vivancos R, O’Brien SJ, Christley RM. Cross-sectional household transmission study of Cryptosporidium shows that C. hominis infections are a key risk factor for spread. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:114. [PMID: 35105330 PMCID: PMC8807379 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07086-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection with the Cryptosporidium parasite causes over 4000 cases of diagnosed illness (cryptosporidiosis) in England and Wales each year. The incidence of sporadic disease has not been sufficiently established, and how frequently this arises from contact with other infected people is not well documented. This project aimed to explore potential transmission in the home and attempt to identify asymptomatic infections, which might play a role in transmission. Risk factors and characteristics associated with spread of infection in the home were described including any differences between Cryptosporidium species. METHODS The study identified cryptosporidiosis cases from North West England and Wales over a year and invited them and their household to take part. Each household was sent a study pack containing study information and a questionnaire, and stool sample kits to provide samples from consenting household members. Cryptosporidium-positive stool samples, identified by immunofluorescence microscopy, were characterised using molecular methods to help describe any patterns of transmission. Characteristics of households with and without additional cases were described, and compared using odds ratios (OR) and a multivariable logistic regression identified independent risk factors for household transmission. Data collection ran for one year, beginning in September 2018 with an initial pilot phase. RESULTS We enrolled 128 index cases and their households. Additional illness occurred in over a quarter of homes, each reporting an average of two additional cases. The majority of these were undiagnosed and unreported to surveillance. This burden was even greater in households where the index case was infected with C. hominis versus C. parvum, or the index case was under five years old, with mums and siblings most at risk of secondary infection. Only having an index case of C. hominis was independently associated with transmission in the multivariable model (OR 4.46; p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Cryptosporidium was a considerable burden in the home. At-risk homes were those where the index was less than five years old and/or infected with C. hominis. Of particular risk were female caregivers and siblings. Hygiene advice should be specifically directed here. This work provides evidence for humans as sources of C. hominis infection and that person-person is a key pathway. We recommend that all stools submitted for the investigation of gastrointestinal pathogens are tested for Cryptosporidium to better capture cases, inclusion of speciation data in routine surveillance, and the consideration of specific clinical advice on prevention for high-risk homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caoimhe McKerr
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Swansea Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Present Address: Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Rachel M. Chalmers
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Swansea, UK
- Swansea Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Present Address: Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kristin Elwin
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Swansea, UK
- Present Address: Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Heather Ayres
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Swansea, UK
- Present Address: Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Roberto Vivancos
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Field Epidemiology Services, Public Health England, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sarah J. O’Brien
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Robert M. Christley
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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48
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Guo Y, Ryan U, Feng Y, Xiao L. Association of Common Zoonotic Pathogens With Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:810142. [PMID: 35082774 PMCID: PMC8784678 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.810142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal farming has intensified significantly in recent decades, with the emergence of concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) in industrialized nations. The congregation of susceptible animals in CAFOs can lead to heavy environmental contamination with pathogens, promoting the emergence of hyper-transmissible, and virulent pathogens. As a result, CAFOs have been associated with emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses, hepatitis E virus, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Streptococcus suis, livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and Cryptosporidium parvum in farm animals. This has led to increased transmission of zoonotic pathogens in humans and changes in disease patterns in general communities. They are exemplified by the common occurrence of outbreaks of illnesses through direct and indirect contact with farm animals, and wide occurrence of similar serotypes or subtypes in both humans and farm animals in industrialized nations. Therefore, control measures should be developed to slow down the dispersal of zoonotic pathogens associated with CAFOs and prevent the emergence of new pathogens of epidemic and pandemic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqiong Guo
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Una Ryan
- Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
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49
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Lu Y, Pu T, Ma B, Wang L, Zhou M, Chen Y, Li X, Zheng C, Liu H, Liu J, Guan C, Yu H, Dai C, Huang Y, Yang Y, Peng Z, Han L, Chai H, Hou Z. A survey of Cryptosporidium prevalence among birds in two zoos in China. PeerJ 2022; 10:e12825. [PMID: 35111415 PMCID: PMC8783555 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidiosis is an important zoonotic protozoan disease worldwide, but few studies on this disease have been performed in wild birds; thus, our knowledge of this disease is insufficient, even in zoo birds. Animals in zoos are possible zoonotic disease reservoirs, potentially resulting in zoonotic agent spillover to humans; accordingly, our understanding of such phenomena should be improved. METHODS A total of 263 fresh fecal samples from 43 avian species were randomly collected from the Beijing Zoo and Harbin North Forest Zoo and screened for the prevalence of Cryptosporidium by 18S rRNA gene sequencing. Cryptosporidium species were distinguished based on the combined results of phylogenetic tree and genetic distance analyses conducted with the inclusion of seven avian Cryptosporidium species and 13 avian Cryptosporidium genotypes. The genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium parvum among different hosts, including humans, cattle, dogs, and birds, and the genetic diversity of avian C. parvum among avian hosts in China, Iraq and Brazil were determined based on C. parvum 18S rRNA haplotypes. RESULTS The results of PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene revealed that 1.9% (5/263) of the samples were Cryptosporidium-positive. Four of the five Cryptosporidium-positive samples originated from white cranes (Grus leucogeranus), and one originated from a flamingo (Phoenicopteridae). Avian C. parvum isolates, including the isolates examined in the present study, showed gene flow with other isolates from different types of hosts, including humans, cattle and dogs, indicating that zoo birds potentially pose zoonotic and pathogenic risks to humans and animals. Additionally, gene flow between avian C. parvum isolates from China and Brazil was detected. CONCLUSIONS To the best of our knowledge, our results demonstrate C. parvum infection in a flamingo (Phoenicopteridae) and white cranes (Grus leucogeranus) for the first time. The results of our study provide an important reference for understanding the host range, biological characteristics, and molecular epidemiology of C. parvum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxian Lu
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Tianchun Pu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Captive Wildlife Technologies, Beijing, China
| | - Baohua Ma
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Lixin Wang
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Mengchao Zhou
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiuyun Li
- Harbin North Forest Zoo, Harbin, China
| | - Changming Zheng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Captive Wildlife Technologies, Beijing, China
| | - Hetong Liu
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Jinpeng Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Captive Wildlife Technologies, Beijing, China
| | | | - Hongyan Yu
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Chunkuo Dai
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Captive Wildlife Technologies, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Huang
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Yuling Yang
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhiwei Peng
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | - Lei Han
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
| | | | - Zhijun Hou
- Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China,Laboratory of Vector-Borne Diseases and Pathogens Ecology, Northeast Forest University, Harbin, China
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Guo Y, Ryan U, Feng Y, Xiao L. Emergence of zoonotic Cryptosporidium parvum in China. Trends Parasitol 2021; 38:335-343. [PMID: 34972653 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Zoonotic cryptosporidiosis is a major public health problem in industrialized nations; in those countries it is caused mainly by Cryptosporidium parvum IIa subtypes that are prevalent in dairy calves. Because of the short history of intensive animal farming in China, strains of C. parvum are found only on some dairy farms in this country and are the IId subtypes. However, the prevalence of C. parvum is increasing rapidly, with IIa subtypes recently detected in a few grazing animals, and both IIa and IId subtypes are emerging in humans. As animal farming intensifies, China may follow in the footsteps of industrialized nations where zoonotic cryptosporidiosis is rampant. One Health and biosecurity measures are urgently needed to slow down the dispersal of autochthonous IId subtypes and imported IIa subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqiong Guo
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Una Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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