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Vega-Mariño P, Olson J, Howitt B, Criollo R, Figueroa L, Orlando SA, Cruz M, Garcia-Bereguiain MA. A recent distemper virus outbreak in the growing canine populations of Galapagos Islands: a persistent threat for the endangered Galapagos Sea Lion. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1154625. [PMID: 37228838 PMCID: PMC10203394 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1154625] [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: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is a highly contagious virus that can cross mammalian species barriers and has widespread impacts on both domestic animals and wildlife populations. This study describes a recent outbreak of CDV in the Galapagos Islands in 2019. A total number of 125 dogs with clinical signs compatible with CDV were included in this study. Nasal swabs were taken and analyzed by RT-qPCR for the detection of CDV, resulting in a positivity rate of 74.4% (IC95%, 66-81%). Among the CDV positive dogs, 82.2% presented with respiratory signs, 48.8% neurological signs, and 28.9% gastrointestinal signs. CDV has been previously reported in the domestic canine population of the Galapagos Islands in 2001 and 2004. The current study shows how CDV is still a threat for the endemic and endangered Galapagos sea lion, despite recent policies for dog population control and CDV vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricio Vega-Mariño
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos, Santa Cruz, Galápagos, Ecuador
- Programa de Doctorado de Salud Pública Humana y Animal, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Jessie Olson
- Pan Animalia Galapagos, Santa Cruz, Galápagos, Ecuador
| | - Ben Howitt
- Pan Animalia Galapagos, Santa Cruz, Galápagos, Ecuador
- Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS), Cranborne, United Kingdom
| | - Rita Criollo
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos, Santa Cruz, Galápagos, Ecuador
| | - Lissette Figueroa
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos, Santa Cruz, Galápagos, Ecuador
| | - Solon Alberto Orlando
- Universidad Espiritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública e Investigación, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Marilyn Cruz
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos, Santa Cruz, Galápagos, Ecuador
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Culda CA, Dionnet R, Barbu AC, Cârstolovean AS, Dan T, Grijalva J, Espin P, Vinueza RL, Cruz M, Páez-Rosas D, Renato L, Mihalca AD. The Presence of Dirofilaria immitis in Domestic Dogs on San Cristobal Island, Galapagos. Pathogens 2022; 11:1287. [PMID: 36365038 PMCID: PMC9696258 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This study's concept was outlined around the principle of conservation medicine in a biodiversity hotspot from the Neotropical realm: the Galapagos Islands. The wildlife balance has been modified by multi-host parasites introduced with some domestic animals (dogs and cats). The endemic and endangered species, the Galapagos sea lion (GSL, Zalophus wollebaeki), has been exposed to pathogens of canine and feline origin that could become a significant conservation problem for this species. One of these potential cases is the filarial heartworm infection, Dirofilaria immitis, which has been reported on other pinnipeds, with fatalities and clinical symptoms. Therefore, this study evaluated the presence of the microfilaria of D. immitis in dogs from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal Island, where the largest rookery of GSLs lives and where the proximity to domestic dogs is the most intimate compared to other rookeries of the archipelago. Between July and September 2021, 587 blood samples were collected from owned dogs of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Overall, 10 dogs (1.7%) were positive for the presence of the microfilaria of D. immitis with a confidence interval of 0.7%-2.8%. No other filarial species were identified. Significant differences in prevalence between different dog categories were observed only for the age (p = 0.001). This study represents the first report of D. immitis, the agent of canine heartworm disease, in dogs from San Cristobal Island. Hence, the presence of the microfilaria of D. immitis in the blood of dogs could increase the risk of infection to which the GSL is exposed in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Andreea Culda
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Romane Dionnet
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andra Celia Barbu
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrada Silvia Cârstolovean
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Teodora Dan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Jaime Grijalva
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Cumbayá, Quito 150157, Ecuador
| | - Priscilla Espin
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos, Isla San Cristóbal 200152, Galápagos, Ecuador
| | - Rommel Lenin Vinueza
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Cumbayá, Quito 150157, Ecuador
- Laboratorio de Entomología Médica & Medicina Tropical LEMMT, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Cumbayá, Quito 150157, Ecuador
| | - Marylin Cruz
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos, Isla San Cristóbal 200152, Galápagos, Ecuador
| | - Diego Páez-Rosas
- Galapagos Science Center, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Isla San Cristóbal 200150, Islas Galápagos, Ecuador
- Dirección del Parque Nacional Galápagos, Unidad Técnica Operativa San Cristóbal, Isla San Cristóbal 200150, Islas Galápagos, Ecuador
| | - Leon Renato
- Laboratorio de Entomología Médica & Medicina Tropical LEMMT, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Cumbayá, Quito 150157, Ecuador
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Mohammad HA, Ajaj EA, Gharban HAJ. The first study on confirmation and risk factors of acute and chronic canine distemper in stray dogs in Wasit Province, Iraq, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Vet World 2022; 15:968-974. [PMID: 35698493 PMCID: PMC9178565 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.968-974] [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: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: In Iraq, stray dogs represent a critical population of free-roaming animals, which probably play a role in the transmission of different infections to other animals. Canine distemper is one of the most growing viral threats to carnivores in many countries worldwide, including Iraq. Therefore, this study was aimed to diagnose the disease using serological and molecular assay and the role of risk factors in the spreading infection. Materials and Methods: In all, 158 venous blood samples were collected randomly from stray dogs in rural and sub-urban areas of Iraq from May 2019 to December 2020. The samples were examined serologically using two enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits, immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM), and molecularly by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect and confirm chronic and acute infections. To determine the association between infection and various risk factors, the study animals were divided according to their locations, sexes, and ages. The age groups were ≤8 months (puppy), 1-3 years (young), and ≥3 years (old/mature). Results: ELISA result shows that 6.96% and 19.62% of dogs were seropositive for acute and chronic distemper, respectively. The titer of chronic infections (0.421±0.027) was significantly higher (p≤0.025) than that of acute canine distemper (0.337±0.016). On RT-PCR, 8.86% of dogs were found positive for distemper. Using RT-PCR as the gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of the IgM ELISA kit were 75% and 98.63%, respectively, whereas the positive and negative predictivity were 81.82% and 97.96%, respectively. A significant variation (p<0.05) was observed in the distribution of positive findings among the different epidemiological risk factors. Compared with rural areas, positivity was significantly higher (p<0.05) in sub-urban areas on IgM (26.92%) and IgG (64.15%) ELISA and RT-PCR (34.62%). On IgM ELISA and RT-PCR, no significant differences (p>0.05) were found among the three age groups; however, positivity was significantly higher (p≤0.048) in the ≥3 years group (22.73%) on IgG ELISA. Furthermore, only IgG ELISA showed a significantly higher (p≤0.032) positivity rate in female dogs (25.23%) than in male dogs (7.84%). Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first Iraqi study to demonstrate acute and chronic canine distemper in stray dogs, suggesting that the prolonged shedding of virus from positive dogs is a critical point in the epidemiology of the disease. Additional studies in dogs or other carnivores are required to establish baseline data on the prevalence of the disease in Iraq.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadeel Asim Mohammad
- Department of Internal and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul, Nineveh, Iraq
| | - Eva Aisser Ajaj
- Department of Internal and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul, Nineveh, Iraq
| | - Hasanain A. J. Gharban
- Department of Internal and Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wasit, Wasit, Iraq
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Mota-Rojas D, Calderón-Maldonado N, Lezama-García K, Sepiurka L, Maria Garcia RDC. Abandonment of dogs in Latin America: Strategies and ideas. Vet World 2021; 14:2371-2379. [PMID: 34840456 PMCID: PMC8613775 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.2371-2379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In this article, we gathered information from postgraduate theses and scientific articles published in several databases using inclusion criteria that had been made in Latin America, in countries with similar economic conditions, and also in the USA to present a point of comparison. The objective of this review is to broaden the readers' understanding of the causes of the increasing numbers of stray dogs and the reasons why people abandon pets in the streets, specifically in Latin America. It also discusses adoption and responsible ownership, identifies what failed in promoting positive human-dog interaction, and suggests strategies to address this problem. It concludes that adoption alone is not an effective solution but that it is necessary to offer education and awareness programs for owners, organize sterilization campaigns, and develop and apply - with the corresponding authorities - measures to ensure animal welfare that will provide benefits for society and improve animal quality of life. The role of veterinarians is fundamental in education and in disseminating the necessary information to orient people before they acquire a pet and prevent animal abandonment to resolve this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mota-Rojas
- Neurophysiology, Behavior, and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Xochimilco Campus, 04960, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Karina Lezama-García
- Neurophysiology, Behavior, and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Xochimilco Campus, 04960, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Leonardo Sepiurka
- Specialist in Canine and Feline Clinic of the College of Veterinarians of the Province of Buenos Aires. Small Animal Traumatology Specialist Professional Council CABA, Argentina
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Bergmann M, Freisl M, Hartmann K. [Prevention of canine parvovirosis - Part 1: Humoral and cellular immunity]. TIERAERZTLICHE PRAXIS AUSGABE KLEINTIERE HEIMTIERE 2021; 49:44-50. [PMID: 33588464 DOI: 10.1055/a-1319-4564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Canine parvovirosis remains a common and highly infectious disease. Thus, adequate protection is essential for all dogs at any time. In this, humoral immunity plays an essential role. The presence of antibodies in adult dogs suggests immunity against the disease, and nearly all adult dogs possess antibodies (either due to previous vaccination or infection). Meanwhile, worldwide vaccination guidelines recommend measurement of pre-vaccination antibodies instead of regular triennial re-vaccinations in adult dogs. Studies have demonstrated a long lasting duration of immunity against canine parvovirus. Re-vaccination therefore possesses no beneficial effect when dogs already have pre-vaccination antibodies. Thus, when antibodies are present, unnecessary re-vaccinations that potentially cause vaccine-associated adverse events should be avoided. Hemagglutination inhibition and virus neutralization can be performed in specialized laboratories for quantitative antibody titer measurement. Semiquantitative point-of-care (POC) tests for detection of CPV antibodies are available. Since the presence of CPV antibodies in adult dogs that have been vaccinated or previously infected suggests adequate immunity against disease, these POC tests can be a useful tool in practice. They identify dogs that might potentially be unprotected and require re-vaccination during preventive health care appointments. Concerning the POC tests' quality assessment, a high specificity (low number of false positive test results) is considered the most important feature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michèle Bergmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Monika Freisl
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
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Hernandez JA, Yoak AJ, Walden HS, Thompson N, Zuniga D, Criollo R, Duque V, Cruz M. Dog overpopulation on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos 2018. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge A. Hernandez
- College of Veterinary Medicine University of Florida Gainesville Florida USA
- College of Public Health and Health Professions University of Florida Gainesville Florida USA
- Center for Latin American Studies University of Florida Gainesville Florida USA
| | | | - Heather S. Walden
- College of Veterinary Medicine University of Florida Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Nina Thompson
- College of Veterinary Medicine University of Florida Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Daniela Zuniga
- College of Public Health and Health Professions University of Florida Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Rita Criollo
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos Santa Cruz Galápagos Ecuador
| | - Viviana Duque
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos Santa Cruz Galápagos Ecuador
| | - Marilyn Cruz
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos Santa Cruz Galápagos Ecuador
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Day MJ, Crawford C, Marcondes M, Squires RA. Recommendations on vaccination for Latin American small animal practitioners: a report of the WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines Group. J Small Anim Pract 2020; 61:E1-E35. [PMID: 32227347 PMCID: PMC7228315 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association Vaccination Guidelines Group has produced global guidelines for small companion animal practitioners on best practice in canine and feline vaccination. Recognising that there are unique aspects of veterinary practice in certain geographical regions of the world, the Vaccination Guidelines Group undertook a regional project in Latin America between 2016 and 2019, culminating in the present document. The Vaccination Guidelines Group gathered scientific and demographic data during visits to Argentina, Brazil and Mexico, by discussion with national key opinion leaders, visiting veterinary practices and review of the scientific literature. A questionnaire survey was completed by 1390 veterinarians in five Latin American countries and the Vaccination Guidelines Group delivered continuing education at seven events attended by over 3500 veterinarians. The Vaccination Guidelines Group recognised numerous challenges in Latin America, for example: (1) lack of national oversight of the veterinary profession, (2) extraordinary growth in private veterinary schools of undetermined quality, (3) socioeconomic constraints on client engagement with preventive health care, (4) high regional prevalence of some key infectious diseases (e.g. feline leukaemia virus infection, canine visceral leishmaniosis), (5) almost complete lack of minimal antigen vaccine products as available in other markets, (6) relative lack of vaccine products with extended duration of immunity as available in other markets, (7) availability of vaccine products withdrawn from other markets (e.g. Giardia vaccine) or unique to Latin America (e.g. some Leishmania vaccines), (8) accessibility of vaccines directly by pet owners or breeders such that vaccination is not delivered under veterinary supervision, (9) limited availability of continuing education in veterinary vaccinology and lack of compulsion for continuing professional development and (10) limited peer‐reviewed published scientific data on small companion animal infectious diseases (with the exception of leishmaniosis) and lack of support for such academic research. In this document, the Vaccination Guidelines Group summarises the findings of this project and assesses in evidence‐based fashion the scientific literature pertaining to companion animal vaccine‐preventable diseases in Latin America. The Vaccination Guidelines Group makes some recommendations on undergraduate and postgraduate education and academic research. Recognising that current product availability in Latin America does not permit veterinarians in these countries to vaccinate according to the global World Small Animal Veterinary Association guidelines, the Vaccination Guidelines Group makes a series of “pragmatic” recommendations as to what might be currently achievable, and a series of “aspirational” recommendations as to what might be desirable for the future. The concept of “vaccine husbandry” is addressed via some simple guidelines for the management of vaccine products in the practice. Finally, the Vaccination Guidelines Group emphasises the global trend towards delivery of vaccination as one part of an “annual health check” or “health care plan” that reviews holistically the preventive health care needs of the individual pet animal. Latin American practitioners should transition towards these important new practices that are now well embedded in more developed veterinary markets. The document also includes 70 frequently asked questions and their answers; these were posed to the Vaccination Guidelines Group during our continuing education events and small group discussions and should address many of the issues surrounding delivery of vaccination in the Latin American countries. Spanish and Portuguese translations of this document will be made freely available from the on‐line resource pages of the Vaccination Guidelines Group.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Day
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - C Crawford
- University of Florida School of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - M Marcondes
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - R A Squires
- Discipline of Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
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Yan X, Owens JR, Wen Y, Su X, Wang Z, Liu S, Zhang D, Callan R, Wenlei B, Qi D, Spotila JR, Hou R, Zhang Z. Dogs and Disease Threats to Giant Pandas in China. J Wildl Manage 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.21786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Yan
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Jacob R. Owens
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Yiping Wen
- Sichuan Agriculture University Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Su
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Zhenghao Wang
- Sichuan Agriculture University Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Songrui Liu
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Dongsheng Zhang
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Ramana Callan
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Bi Wenlei
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Dunwu Qi
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - James R. Spotila
- Department of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental ScienceDrexel University Philadelphia PA 19104 USA
| | - Rong Hou
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
| | - Zhihe Zhang
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered WildlifeChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Sichuan 610081 P.R. China
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Jimenez IA, Vega Mariño PA, Stapleton GS, Prieto JB, Bowman DD. Canine vector-borne disease in domestic dogs on Isla Santa Cruz, Galápagos. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 19:100373. [PMID: 32057400 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Vector-borne diseases result in significant morbidity and mortality in domestic dogs in tropical and subtropical regions and also pose a potential threat to wildlife species and humans. Ehrlichia canis, the causative agent of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), has a high reported seroprevalence in dogs on Santa Cruz in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. Veterinary diagnostic and treatment resources are often scarce and clinical follow-up is lacking in the Galápagos. This study evaluated 58 dogs presenting to the Darwin Animal Doctors clinic in the city of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island during August of 2018. The seroprevalence of E. canis/Ehrlichia ewingii (48.3%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum/Anaplasma platys (12.1%), and Borrelia burgdorferi (0%), as well as the proportion of dogs actively infected with E. canis (12.1%) and E. ewingii (0%), are reported. Active infection was defined as the identification of antigen by PCR. Dogs with a packed cell volume (PCV) ≤ 30% had a 10-fold risk of active infection with E. canis compared to dogs with a PCV ≥ 31% (p = .0124). A PCV cutoff of 30% may be a useful screening tool for active E. canis infection in regions with high Ehrlichia seroprevalence, in the absence of other apparent causes of anemia. Dirofilaria immitis antigen was present in 6.9% of examined dogs, with the highest prevalence in the barrio Las Ninfas. PCR and Sanger sequencing were used to provide the first molecular identification of D. immitis in the Galápagos. This study updates the seropositivity and prevalence data of these canine vector-borne pathogens and highlights the need for continued surveillance in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Angelica Jimenez
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 602 Tower Road, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States of America; Animal Medical Center, 510 E. 62nd Street, New York, NY 10065, United States of America.
| | - Patricio Alejandro Vega Mariño
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos, Avenida Baltra, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galápagos 200102, Ecuador
| | - G Sean Stapleton
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 602 Tower Road, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Battista Prieto
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 602 Tower Road, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States of America
| | - Dwight Douglas Bowman
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 602 Tower Road, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States of America
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DiGangi BA, Dingman PA, Grijalva CJ, Belyeu M, Tucker S, Isaza R. Prevalence and risk factors for the presence of serum antibodies against canine distemper, canine parvovirus, and canine adenovirus in communities in mainland Ecuador. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2019; 218:109933. [PMID: 31479955 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2019.109933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to estimate the apparent prevalence and identify risk factors for antibody levels (AL) against canine distemper virus (CDV), canine parvovirus (CPV), and canine adenovirus (CAV) in three communities in the metropolitan area of Quito, Ecuador that have limited access to regular veterinary care. Whole blood samples were collected from 154 dogs presenting to three veterinary field clinics in mainland Ecuador and tested for AL against CDV, CPV, and CAV by a commercially available point-of-care ELISA. Potential risk factors for the presence of AL were analyzed. A majority of dogs had AL against CDV (66%, 95% CI = 58-73%), CPV (95%, 95% CI = 91-98%) and CAV (60%, 95% CI = 52-67%). Dogs had significantly greater odds of AL against CDV if they were >2 years of age, from an urban community, and had previously received veterinary care. Dogs had significantly greater odds of AL against CAV if they were male, >2 years of age, and had previously received veterinary care. Results provide baseline estimates of AL within each community and allow for the targeting of future veterinary services to communities and dogs most at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian A DiGangi
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Box 100126, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
| | - Patricia A Dingman
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Box 100126, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - C Jaime Grijalva
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Box 100136, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Mark Belyeu
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Box 100126, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Sylvia Tucker
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Box 100126, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Ramiro Isaza
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Box 100126, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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da Costa VG, Saivish MV, Rodrigues RL, de Lima Silva RF, Moreli ML, Krüger RH. Molecular and serological surveys of canine distemper virus: A meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217594. [PMID: 31141576 PMCID: PMC6541297 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine morbillivirus (canine distemper virus, CDV) persists as a serious threat to the health of domestic dogs and wildlife. Although studies have been conducted on the frequency and risk factors associated with CDV infection, there are no comprehensive data on the current epidemiological magnitude in the domestic dog population at regional and national levels. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional study and included our results in a meta-analysis to summarize and combine available data on the frequency and potential risk factors associated with CDV infection. METHODS For the cross-sectional study, biological samples from dogs suspected to have canine distemper (CD) were collected and screened for viral RNA. Briefly, the PRISMA protocol was used for the meta-analysis, and data analyses were performed using STATA IC 13.1 software. RESULTS CDV RNA was detected in 34% (48/141) of dogs suspected to have CD. Following our meta-analysis, 53 studies were selected for a total of 11,527 dogs. Overall, the pooled frequency of CDV positivity based on molecular and serological results were 33% (95% CI: 23-43) and 46% (95% CI: 36-57), respectively. The pooled subgroup analyses of clinical signs, types of biological samples, diagnostic methods and dog lifestyle had a wide range of CDV positivity (range 8-75%). Free-ranging dogs (OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.05-1.97), dogs >24 months old (OR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.1-3) and unvaccinated dogs (OR: 2.92, 95% CI: 1.26-6.77) were found to be positively associated with CDV infection. In contrast, dogs <12 months old (OR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.20-0.64) and dogs with a complete anti-CDV vaccination (OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.05-0.59) had a negative association. CONCLUSION Considering the high frequency of CDV positivity associated with almost all the variables analyzed in dogs, it is necessary to immediately and continuously plan mitigation strategies to reduce the CDV prevalence, especially in determined endemic localities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivaldo Gomes da Costa
- Enzymology Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
- Virology Laboratory, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Jataí, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Marielena Vogel Saivish
- Virology Laboratory, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Jataí, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Roger Luiz Rodrigues
- Virology Laboratory, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Jataí, Goiás, Brazil
| | | | - Marcos Lázaro Moreli
- Virology Laboratory, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Jataí, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Henrique Krüger
- Enzymology Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
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12
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Dog overpopulation and diagnosis of intestinal parasites on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos 2016. Prev Vet Med 2018; 157:99-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2018.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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13
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Gioia GV, Vinueza RL, Marsot M, Devillers E, Cruz M, Petit E, Boulouis HJ, Moutailler S, Monroy F, Coello MA, Gondard M, Bournez L, Haddad N, Zanella G. Bovine anaplasmosis and tick-borne pathogens in cattle of the Galapagos Islands. Transbound Emerg Dis 2018; 65:1262-1271. [PMID: 29566306 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the species of Anaplasma spp. and estimate its prevalence in cattle of the three main cattle-producing Galapagos Islands (Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal and Isabela) using indirect PCR assays, genetic sequencing and ELISA. Ticks were also collected from cattle and scanned for 47 tick-borne pathogens in a 48 × 48 real-time PCR chip. A mixed effects logistic regression was performed to identify potential risk factors explaining Anaplasma infection in cattle. A. phagocytophilum was not detected in any of the tested animals. Genetic sequencing allowed detection of A. platys-like strains in 11 (36.7%) of the 30 Anaplasma spp.-positive samples analysed. A. marginale was widespread in the three islands with a global between-herd prevalence of 100% [89; 100]95% CI and a median within-herd prevalence of 93%. A significant association was found between A. marginale infection and age with higher odds of being positive for adults (OR = 3.3 [1.2; 9.9]95% Bootstrap CI ). All collected ticks were identified as Rhipicephalus microplus. A. marginale, Babesia bigemina, Borrelia theileri and Francisella-like endosymbiont were detected in tick pools. These results show that the Galapagos Islands are endemic for A. marginale.
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Affiliation(s)
- G V Gioia
- Epidemiology Unit, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, University Paris Est, Maisons-Alfort, France.,UBL, MAN-IMAL IDEFI ANR 11-0003, Atlantic National College of Veterinary Medicine, Food Science and Engineering (Oniris), Nantes, France
| | - R L Vinueza
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Quito, Ecuador
| | - M Marsot
- Epidemiology Unit, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, University Paris Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - E Devillers
- UMR BIPAR, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, INRA, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, University Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - M Cruz
- Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos (ABG), Puerto Ayora, Ecuador
| | - E Petit
- UMR BIPAR, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, INRA, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, University Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - H J Boulouis
- UMR BIPAR, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, INRA, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, University Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - S Moutailler
- UMR BIPAR, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, INRA, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, University Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - F Monroy
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Quito, Ecuador
| | - M A Coello
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Quito, Ecuador
| | - M Gondard
- UMR BIPAR, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, INRA, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, University Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - L Bournez
- Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, ANSES, Nancy, France
| | - N Haddad
- UMR BIPAR, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, INRA, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, University Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - G Zanella
- Epidemiology Unit, Laboratory for Animal Health, ANSES, University Paris Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
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Abstract
Colonization comprises the physical arrival of a species in a new area, but also its successful establishment within the local community. Oceanic islands, like the Hawaiian and the Galapagos archipelagos, represent excellent systems to study the mechanisms of colonization because of their historical isolation. In this chapter, we first review some of the major mechanisms by which parasites and vectors could arrive to an oceanic island, both naturally or due to human activities, and the factors that may influence their successful establishment in the insular host community. We then explore examples of natural and anthropogenic colonization of the Galapagos Islands by parasites and vectors, focusing on one or more case studies that best represent the diversity of colonization mechanisms that has shaped parasite distribution in the archipelago. Finally, we discuss future directions for research on parasite and vector colonization in Galapagos Islands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia G. Parker
- Department of Biology, University of Missouri – St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri USA
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15
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Adams DJ, Rosenberg DE, Yirui H. Prevalence of vector-borne diseases in a sample of client-owned dogs on Santa Cruz in the Galápagos Islands: A pilot study. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2016; 6:28-30. [PMID: 31014524 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2016.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 11/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A population of approximately 2500 dogs inhabits the island of Santa Cruz in the Galápagos Islands and many of these dogs freely roam the streets of the island in close proximity to people. The dog population receives minimal, if any, veterinary care or ectoparasite prophylaxis, leaving the majority of the dogs at risk for vector-borne infections such as Anaplasma platys, Borrelia burgdorferi, Dirofilaria immitis, Ehrlichia canis, and Ehrlichia ewingii. Data on the prevalence of vector-borne disease in dogs on the island of Santa Cruz are lacking. The current study served as a pilot investigation to estimate the prevalence of circulating antibodies or prevalence of circulating antigen specific to these vector-borne agents in client-owned dogs through the use of IDEXX SNAP® 4Dx® Plus Tests. Of the 37 dogs screened, the prevalence of antibodies to Ehrlichia spp. was the highest at 37.84% (95% CI=24.10, 54.90%), followed by a prevalence of 13.51% (95% CI=2.58, 24.44%) for antibodies to Anaplasma species. Prevalence of antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi was 0% (95% CI=0, 0%), and prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis antigen was also 0% (95% CI=0, 0%). Tick infestation (RR=2.90; p=0.03) and sex (RR=2.20; p=0.05) were statistically significant risk factors for exposure to either Ehrlichia or Anaplasma species. Considering the zoonotic potential of these pathogens, reducing the prevalence of infection in the dog population is crucial in preventing transmission to the island's inhabitants and its tourists. Therefore, prevalence determined in the current study serves as a useful estimate for future surveillance and is valuable for evaluating the effectiveness of future control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Adams
- University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Danielle E Rosenberg
- University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Heng Yirui
- University of Glasgow School of Veterinary Medicine, 464 Bearsden Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
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