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Feiz-Haddad MH, Moradkhani MA. Molecular phylodiagnosis of Echinococcus multilocularis and Echinococcus granulosus among canids in Guilan province, northern Iran. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 111:102210. [PMID: 38936204 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2024.102210] [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: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Canine-transmitted worms and an uncontrolled deworming program of stray dogs have caused that accurate diagnosis of zoonotic parasites received notable attention in endemic regions. This study aimed to assess the presence of E. multilocularis and E. granulosus infections in canids from Guilan province, northern Iran. A total of 272 fecal samples from carnivores were collected across 24 different regions in Guilan province between 2023 and 2024. All fecal specimens were observed following concentration and flotation techniques. DNAs of taeniid eggs were extracted, amplified, and sequenced targeting of specific mitochondrial Cox1 gene for E. granulosus and NAD 1 gene for E. multilocularis. On the base of molecular and phylogenetic analysis 1.47 % (in jackal) and 25 % (in dogs and jackal) of samples were positive for E. multilocularis and E. granulosus sensu strico G1 genotype, respectively. Molecular technique was found to be more sensitive in detecting infection in comparison with conventional techniques. Sequence analysis of Cox1 indicated a high genetic diversity (Haplotype diversity; 0.933; Number of haplotypes, h: 7) in E. granulosus G1. Current findings show that canids particularly jackals play potential role of definitive host in maintenance and transmission dynamic of E. multilocularis and E. granulosus in northern Iran. The presence of these infections is of particular concern in Guilan province due to the high influx of tourists, increasing the risk of transmission to humans. Therefore, the implementation of preventive programs is warranted to apply hygienic practices and adjusting deworming programs for the canids and at-risk individuals in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Feiz-Haddad
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Islamic Republic of Iran; Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Mohammad-Ali Moradkhani
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Islamic Republic of Iran; Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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2
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Scholz C, Jarquín-Díaz VH, Planillo A, Radchuk V, Scherer C, Schulze C, Ortmann S, Kramer-Schadt S, Heitlinger E. Host weight, seasonality and anthropogenic factors contribute to parasite community differences between urban and rural foxes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 936:173355. [PMID: 38796016 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173355] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Pathogens often occur at different prevalence along environmental gradients. This is of particular importance for gradients of anthropogenic impact such as rural-urban transitions presenting a changing interface between humans and wildlife. The assembly of parasite communities is affected by both the external environmental conditions and individual host characteristics. Hosts with low body weight (smaller individuals or animals with poor body condition) might be more susceptible to infection. Furthermore, parasites' mode of transmission might affect their occurrence: rural environments with better availability of intermediate hosts might favour trophic transmission, while urban environments, typically with dense definitive host populations, might favour direct transmission. We here study helminth communities (141 intestinal samples) within the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), a synanthropic host, using DNA metabarcoding of multiple marker genes. We analysed the effect of urbanisation, seasonality and host-intrinsic (weight, sex) variables on helminth communities. Helminth species richness increased in foxes with lower body weight and in winter and spring. Season and urbanisation, however, had strong effects on the community composition, i.e., on the identity of the detected species. Surprisingly, transmission in two-host life cycles (trophic transmission) was more pronounced in urban Berlin than in rural Brandenburg. This disagrees with the prevailing hypothesis that trophically transmitted helminths are less prevalent in urban areas than in rural areas. Generally, co-infestations with multiple helminths and high infection intensity are associated with lighter (younger, smaller or low body condition) animals. Both host-intrinsic traits and environmental drivers together shape parasite community composition and turnover along urban-rural gradients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Scholz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V., Berlin, Germany
| | - Víctor Hugo Jarquín-Díaz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V., Berlin, Germany; Department of Molecular Parasitology, Institute for Biology, Humboldt University Berlin (HU), Berlin, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany; Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Aimara Planillo
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V., Berlin, Germany; Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
| | - Viktoriia Radchuk
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V., Berlin, Germany
| | - Cédric Scherer
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V., Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Schulze
- Berlin-Brandenburg State Laboratory (LLBB), Frankfurt (Oder), Germany
| | - Sylvia Ortmann
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V., Berlin, Germany
| | - Stephanie Kramer-Schadt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V., Berlin, Germany; Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany; Institute of Ecology, Technische Universität Berlin, Germany
| | - Emanuel Heitlinger
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V., Berlin, Germany; Department of Molecular Parasitology, Institute for Biology, Humboldt University Berlin (HU), Berlin, Germany.
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3
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Giannelli A, Schnyder M, Wright I, Charlier J. Control of companion animal parasites and impact on One Health. One Health 2024; 18:100679. [PMID: 39010968 PMCID: PMC11247265 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The last decades have witnessed an increase in the global population and movements of companion animals, contributing to changes in density and distribution of pet parasites. Control of companion animal parasites (CAPs) becomes increasingly relevant because of the intensifying human-animal bond. Parasites impact on the health of humans and their pets, but also of wildlife and the environment. We conducted a qualitative review on the current advancements, gaps and priorities for the monitoring and treatment of CAPs with a focus on securing public health. There is a need to raise awareness, coordinate global surveillance schemes and better quantify the impact of companion animal parasites on One Health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Ian Wright
- ESCCAP UK & Ireland, PO Box 358, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 9HQ, United Kingdom
- Mount Veterinary Practice, 1 Harris Street, Fleetwood FY7 6QX, United Kingdom
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Akyuz M, Kirman R, Guven E, Balkaya I, Avcioglu H. Echinococcus granulosus Sensu Stricto and Echinococcus multilocularis in a Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) in Turkey: Further Evidence for Increased Risk of Alveolar Echinococcosis in Urban Areas. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1319-1323. [PMID: 38662075 PMCID: PMC11182862 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00842-x] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to identify Echinococcus species by morphological and molecular means. METHODS A dead gray wolf (Canis lupus) was found near Erzurum province and brought to the parasitology laboratory. Sedimentation and counting technique (SCT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis were conducted. RESULTS The SCT implications indicated that the wolf had a substantial worm burden (62,720 and 49,280 parasites) due to a co-infection of E. granulosus s.l. and E. multilocularis. Genus/species-specific PCR was used to analyze DNA extracted from adult worms and confirmed as E. granulosus s.s. and E. multilocularis, utilizing COI and 12S rRNA gene sequence analysis, respectively. CONCLUSION This report presents the first co-detection of E. granulosus s.s. and E. multilocularis in a gray wolf found in an urban area in a highly endemic area for human echinococcosis in northeastern Turkey. The results emphasize that AE is not only a problem of rural areas, but also occurs in urban areas, which may pose a threat to public health. Therefore, surveillance in urban areas is crucial. The need to develop new control strategies for domestic and wildlife in the study area is also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muzaffer Akyuz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, 25240, Turkey
| | - Ridvan Kirman
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, 25240, Turkey
| | - Esin Guven
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, 25240, Turkey.
| | - Ibrahim Balkaya
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, 25240, Turkey
| | - Hamza Avcioglu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum, 25240, Turkey
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Arcenillas-Hernández I, Ruiz de Ybáñez MR, Tizzani P, Pérez-Cutillas P, Martínez-Carrasco C. Influence of environmental factors on the occurrence of gastrointestinal and cardiopulmonary nematodes in the red fox in the semi-arid Mediterranean areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Res Vet Sci 2024; 171:105199. [PMID: 38458043 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105199] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Human-induced ecosystem fragmentation is one of the drivers causing wildlife migration from their natural habitats to urban areas, among other reasons. The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is the most abundant wild canid in the semi-arid Mediterranean areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Water scarcity may result in areas shared by synanthropic fox populations and domestic animals becoming hotspots for parasite transmission. This study describes the gastrointestinal and cardiopulmonary nematode species affecting fox populations in these semi-arid areas and the influence of environmental variables on parasite abundance. A total of 167 foxes collected from 2015 to 2021 in the Region of Murcia (SE Spain) were analysed. Parasite abundance and spatial distribution were evaluated using environmental variables and host characteristics with a Generalised Linear Model and the Moran index. Eleven species (seven from the gastrointestinal tract and four from the cardiopulmonary tract) were described. The influence of biotic and abiotic variables was studied for Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina. Temperature, humidity and areas of forest or agricultural land influenced the abundance of these parasites, providing optimal conditions for free-living stages of the direct life cycle nematodes and intermediate hosts. Absolute abundance distribution maps showed defined locations for C. vulpis, T. canis and T. leonina. The results for U. stenocephala, T. canis and T. leonina were particularly important as their higher abundance levels were found close to anthropized areas, which need to be carefully evaluated to prevent transmission of these nematodes between domestic and wild canids and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Arcenillas-Hernández
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, Campus Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - M R Ruiz de Ybáñez
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, Campus Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
| | - P Tizzani
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Torino, Italy
| | - P Pérez-Cutillas
- Departamento de Geografía, Facultad de Letras, Universidad de Murcia, Campus de La Merced, 30001 Murcia, Spain
| | - C Martínez-Carrasco
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, Campus Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
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Romig T, Wassermann M. Echinococcus species in wildlife. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 23:100913. [PMID: 38405672 PMCID: PMC10884515 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2024.100913] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Transmission of Echinococcus spp. in life cycles that involve mainly wildlife is well recognized for those species with small mammals as intermediate hosts (e. g. E. multilocularis), as well as for E. felidis and the 'northern' genotypes of E. canadensis (G8 and G10). In contrast, the remaining taxa of E. granulosus sensu lato are best known for their domestic life cycles, and the numerous wild mammal species (mainly ungulates) that have been recorded with cystic echinococcosis in the past were mainly considered a result of spill-over from the dog-livestock transmission system. This view was challenged with the advent of molecular characterization, allowing discrimination of the metacestodes, although the contribution of wild mammals to various Echinococcus life cycles has remained uncertain for scarcity of wildlife studies. Numerous records of cysts in wild ungulates date back to the 20th century, but cannot with certainty be allocated to the Echinococcus species and genotypes that are recognized today. This means that our current knowledge is largely restricted to studies of the past two decades that kept adding gradually to our concepts of transmission in various geographic regions. In particular, new insights were gathered in the past years on E. granulosus s.l. in wildlife of sub-Saharan Africa, but also on transmission patterns of E. multilocularis in previously neglected regions, e. g. North America. Here, an update is provided on the current state of knowledge on wild mammals as hosts for all Echinococcus species, listing >150 species of wild hosts with references, as well as estimates on their epidemiological impact and our current gaps of knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Romig
- University of Hohenheim, Parasitology Unit, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
- University of Hohenheim, Center for Biodiversity and Integrative Taxonomy, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Marion Wassermann
- University of Hohenheim, Parasitology Unit, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
- University of Hohenheim, Center for Biodiversity and Integrative Taxonomy, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
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Cerkvenik-Flajs V, Schenke D, Žele-Vengušt D, Korenjak-Černe S, Perpar A, Vengušt G. Exposure assessment of anticoagulant rodenticides in the liver of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Slovenia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170400. [PMID: 38307261 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170400] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
The study deals with the environmental residues of anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) in Slovenia to evaluate the toxicological risk of secondary poisoning of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) as representatives of non-target wildlife, and in relation to the investigated use patterns of ARs and specific local parameters in Slovenia. From 2019 to 2022, 148 liver tissue samples of adult red foxes were collected from almost all state geographical regions. The samples were extracted with methanol/water (2:1, v/v), cleaned-up using a solid supported liquid-liquid extraction, and measured by liquid chromatography-electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) with reporting limits of 0.5 to 5.0 ng/g. Residues of at least one rodenticide were detected in 77.7 % of the samples. The second generation ARs of bromadiolone, brodifacoum and difenacoum were the most frequently found, appearing in 75.0, 51.4, and 18.9 % of the samples, respectively. Concentrations of pooled ARs ranged from 1.5 to 2866.5 ng/g with mean and median values of 601.4 and 350.2 ng/g, respectively. We determined bromadiolone and brodifacoum at concentrations of ≥800 ng/g in 10.8 and 10.1 % of the samples, and 1.4 and 0.7 % of the samples contained residues >2000 ng/g, respectively. These concentrations are much higher than those found in comparable studies in Europe and elsewhere in the world. Residues of ARs were detected in all monitored statistical regions of Slovenia, with higher concentrations in the eastern parts of the country. First generation ARs were found in only 9.5 % of samples, and residues were below 10 ng/g with one exception (coumatetralyl with 55 ng/g). The results of the study indicate a serious toxicological risk for red foxes in Slovenia as part of the Western Balkans, and will contribute to the growing body of knowledge about the protection of European ecosystems, as wildlife is not limited by national borders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vesna Cerkvenik-Flajs
- University of Ljubljana, Veterinary Faculty, Institute of Pathology, Wild Animals, Fish and Bees, Gerbičeva 60, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Detlef Schenke
- Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) - Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Ecological Chemistry, Plant Analysis and Stored Product Protection, Königin-Luise Str. 19, D-14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Diana Žele-Vengušt
- University of Ljubljana, Veterinary Faculty, Institute of Pathology, Wild Animals, Fish and Bees, Gerbičeva 60, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Simona Korenjak-Černe
- University of Ljubljana, School of Economics and Business, Kardeljeva ploščad 17, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Institute of Mathematics, Physics and Mechanics, Jadranska ulica 21, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Anton Perpar
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Agronomy, Jamnikarjeva 101, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gorazd Vengušt
- University of Ljubljana, Veterinary Faculty, Institute of Pathology, Wild Animals, Fish and Bees, Gerbičeva 60, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Toews E, Musiani M, Smith A, Checkley S, Visscher D, Massolo A. Risk factors for Echinococcus multilocularis intestinal infections in owned domestic dogs in a North American metropolis (Calgary, Alberta). Sci Rep 2024; 14:5066. [PMID: 38429417 PMCID: PMC10907371 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55515-6] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Human alveolar echinococcosis is increasingly documented in Alberta, Canada. Its causative agent, Echinococcus multilocularis (Em), can be transmitted to humans by infected dogs. We assessed the prevalence and associated risk factors for Em infections in domestic dogs in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. In this cross-sectional study that coupled collection and assessment of dog feces with a survey on potential risk factors, 13 of 696 (Bayesian true prevalence, 2.4%; 95% CrI: 1.3-4.0%) individual dogs' feces collected during August and September 2012 were qPCR positive for Em. Sequencing two of these cases indicated that both were from the same Em European strain responsible for human infections in Alberta. Likelihood of intestinal Em was 5.6-times higher in hounds than other breeds, 4.6-times higher in dogs leashed at dog parks than those allowed off-leash, 3.1-times higher in dogs often kept in the backyard during spring and summer months than those rarely in the yard, and 3.3-times higher in dogs living in neighbourhoods bordering Bowmont park than those in other areas of Calgary. This situation warrants surveillance of dog infections as a preventative measure to reduce infections in North America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Toews
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Marco Musiani
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences (BiGeA), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Anya Smith
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sylvia Checkley
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Darcy Visscher
- Department of Biology, The King's University, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Alessandro Massolo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Ethology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Volta 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
- UMR CNRS 6249 Chrono-Environnement, Université Franche-Comté, Besançon, France.
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Simoncini A, Massolo A. Multiscale ecological drivers of Echinococcus multilocularis spatial distribution in wild hosts: A systematic review. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2024; 34:e00216. [PMID: 38152424 PMCID: PMC10749871 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2023.e00216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the ecological factors that drive the spatial patterns of parasites transmission is essential to predict their distribution under global change and to direct proactive surveillance efforts. Here, we systematically reviewed the literature to assess the main ecological drivers responsible for the spatial distribution and transmission of the zoonotic cestode Echinococcus multilocularis, the aetiological agent of alveolar echinococcosis, focusing on wild hosts. The 23 retrieved studies suggested that the dispersal of definitive hosts, climatic and biotic factors (distribution of intermediate hosts, composition of host communities) shape continental-scale distribution patterns of E. multilocularis, whereas the relative importance of climate and land cover in driving E. multilocularis distribution at a smaller (country/regional) scale varies with the geographic area considered. At a local scale, two additional factors contribute to determine the distribution of micro-foci of transmission: the trophic relationships between carnivores definitive hosts and small mammals intermediate hosts, and the defecation and marking behaviour of definitive hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Simoncini
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20133, Italy
| | - Alessandro Massolo
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Pisa, Pisa 56121, Italy
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada
- UMR CNRS 6249 Chrono-environnement, Université Franche-Comté, Besançon 25030, France
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10
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Heiderich E, Origgi FC, Pisano SRR, Kittl S, Oevermann A, Ryser-Degiorgis MP, Marti IA. LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES INFECTION IN FREE-RANGING RED FOXES ( VULPES VULPES) AND EURASIAN LYNX ( LYNX LYNX) IN SWITZERLAND. J Zoo Wildl Med 2024; 55:268-276. [PMID: 38453511 DOI: 10.1638/2022-0144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes is an ubiquitous environmental saprophytic bacterium causing listeriosis in domestic animals, humans, and occasionally wildlife. In animals, this foodborne zoonotic disease mainly occurs in ruminants and it is rare in carnivores. Seven red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and one Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) were diagnosed with listeriosis between 2010 and 2021 at the Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health, Bern, Switzerland. Necropsy and histopathology revealed meningitis (six of seven red foxes), hepatitis (six of seven red foxes), pneumonia (five of seven red foxes), splenitis (two of seven red foxes) and splenomegaly (the Eurasian lynx, two of seven red foxes). Listeria monocytogenes was isolated from either lung, spleen, liver, or kidney of all animals. Serotyping detected L. monocytogenes serotype 1/2a in five red foxes and the Eurasian lynx and serotype 4b in two red foxes. Six red foxes were positive for canine distemper virus (CDV) by polymerase chain reaction, whereas the Eurasian lynx and one red fox were negative. One red fox that was positive for CDV and listeriosis was also diagnosed with salmonellosis. The identified L. monocytogenes serotypes are among the three most frequently isolated serotypes (1/2a, 1/2b, and 4b) from food or the food production environment and those that cause most listeriosis cases in humans and animals. Coinfection with CDV in six red foxes questions the role of CDV as potential predisposing factor for septicemic listeriosis. The detection of listeriosis in the regionally endangered Eurasian lynx and in carnivores highly abundant in urban settings, such as red foxes, reinforces the importance of wildlife health surveillance in a One Health context and adds the Eurasian lynx to the list of carnivores susceptible to the disease. Further investigations are required to assess the prevalence and epidemiology of L. monocytogenes in free-ranging carnivores and its interaction with CDV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Heiderich
- Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health, University of Bern, Postfach, 3001 Bern, Switzerland,
| | - Francesco C Origgi
- Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health, University of Bern, Postfach, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Simone R R Pisano
- Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health, University of Bern, Postfach, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sonja Kittl
- Institute of Veterinary Bacteriology, University of Bern, Postfach, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anna Oevermann
- Department of Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, Neurological Sciences, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Iris A Marti
- Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health, University of Bern, Postfach, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
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Dimzas D, Morelli S, Colombo M, Di Cesare A, Martinis D, Dourdas G, Diakou A. Unusual parasitoses in urban dogs: Urinary capillariosis and linguatulosis, cases report. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 47:100949. [PMID: 38199692 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100949] [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: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Parasitic diseases caused by uncommonly diagnosed parasites may pose a threat to companion animals' health in urban environments where they are least expected. The pentastomid Linguatula serrata (tongue worm) and the capillarid Pearsonema plica (syn. Capillaria plica) are parasites with an indirect life cycle, infecting both domestic and wild carnivores. The present report describes two cases: the first one of urinary capillariosis and the other of linguatulosis, in two dogs living in the urban environment of Athens, Greece. In the case of capillariosis, the dog never lived out of the city, so it was presumably infected in the urban environment. On the contrary, in the case of linguatulosis, the dog was adopted at a young age from a rural environment but remained asymptomatic for several months while living in the city. Both dogs had mild symptoms, compatible with these infections. Urinary capillariosis and linguatulosis are uncommon in owned, pet dogs, living in cities due to epizootiological characteristics, i.e. need for wildlife reservoir for P. plica and consumption of raw infected viscera for L. serrata. Different factors contribute to the fact that such infections may occur in scenarios where they are least expected. Recent studies show a progressive worldwide increase in the number of uncommon parasitoses in pet animals, that in some cases, such as linguatulosis, are of zoonotic relevance. Regular parasitological examinations and preventive antiparasitic schemes are necessary in order to treat and prevent infections in pet animals and safeguard the health of both animals and humans under the concept of One Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Dimzas
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy.
| | - Mariasole Colombo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy.
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy.
| | | | - Georgios Dourdas
- Plakentia Veterinary Clinic, Agia Paraskevi, 15343 Attica, Greece.
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
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12
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Holland CV. A walk on the wild side: A review of the epidemiology of Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati in wild hosts. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2023; 22:216-228. [PMID: 37964985 PMCID: PMC10641444 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2023.10.008] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Toxocara species are cosmopolitan nematode parasites of companion, domestic and wild hosts. Of the 26 known species of Toxocara, only Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati are definitively zoonotic. The significance of wild carnivores as definitive hosts of T. canis and T. cati respectively, has received far less attention compared to domestic dogs and cats. Complex environmental changes have promoted increasing contact between wildlife, domestic animals and humans that can enhance the risk of pathogen spillover. This review lists a total of 19 species of wild canid host that have been shown to act as definitive hosts for T. canis and a total of 21 species of wild felid host. In general, the number of publications focusing on felid host species is fewer in number, reflecting the general paucity of data on T. cati. The wild canids that have received the most attention in the published literature include the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), the wolf (Canis lupus), and the golden jackal (Canis aureus). The wild felid species that has received the most attention in the published literature is the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx). Some non-canid and non-felid hosts also act as definitive hosts of Toxocara species. Certainly, red foxes would appear to be the most significant wild species in terms of their potential to transmit Toxocara to domestic dogs and humans via environmental contamination. This can be explained by their increasing population densities, encroachment into urban areas and their dietary preferences for a wide range of potential paratenic hosts. However, a major challenge remains to assess the relative importance of wild hosts as contributors to environmental contamination with Toxocara ova. Furthermore, one major constraint to our understanding of the significance of wildlife parasitism is a lack of access to samples, particularly from rare host species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia V. Holland
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
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13
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Igelbrink R, Frey T, Schwabe I, Prot M, Reimus F, Oehme R, Löwenstein F. [Alveolar echinococcosis in fattening pigs in a conventional housing system]. Tierarztl Prax Ausg G Grosstiere Nutztiere 2023; 51:391-398. [PMID: 38056472 DOI: 10.1055/a-2199-8963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
In a conventional fattening farm in southern Germany, up to 100 % of the livers of individual slaughter groups were condemned due to parasitic lesions during 2022. Intensification of antiparasitic metaphylaxis with fenbendazole to control Ascaris suum in the herd was unsuccessful. A pathomorphologic examination of 6 livers from two slaughter groups revealed oligofocal fibrotic inflammation. Histologically, chronic granulomatous hepatitis with massive involvement of eosinophilic granulocytes and central parasitic structures of a helminth were detected. Examination of the liver lesions by PCR revealed evidence of Echinococcus (E.) multilocularis. To determine the source of introduction into the herd, fecal samples were collected from semi-feral domestic cats near the feed mixer and in the corridor of the barn. Parasitologically, cestode eggs were detected in the fecal samples. Genome fragments of E. multilocularis could not be amplified by PCR. In the present case, domestic cats were suspected as the most likely source of entry into the herd. Control measures were aimed at preventing parasite entry by therapy of the domestic cats with antiparasitics. Differentially, no other possible pathogens could be detected by PCR and bacteriological examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Igelbrink
- Schweinegesundheitsdienst der Tierseuchenkasse Baden-Württemberg, Fellbach
| | - Tanja Frey
- Schweinegesundheitsdienst der Tierseuchenkasse Baden-Württemberg, Fellbach
| | - Ingo Schwabe
- Chemisches und Veterinäruntersuchungsamt Stuttgart, Fellbach
| | - Manuel Prot
- Amt für Veterinärwesen und Lebensmittelüberwachung Rastatt
| | | | - Rainer Oehme
- Landesgesundheitsamt Baden-Württemberg, Stuttgart
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Abstract
This report by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control presents the results of the zoonoses monitoring and surveillance activities carried out in 2022 in 27 Member States (MSs), the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) and 11 non-MSs. Key statistics on zoonoses and zoonotic agents in humans, food, animals and feed are provided and interpreted historically. In 2022, the first and second most reported zoonoses in humans were campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis, respectively. The number of cases of campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis remained stable in comparison with 2021. Nineteen MSs and the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) achieved all the established targets in poultry populations for the reduction of Salmonella prevalence for the relevant serovars. Salmonella samples from carcases of various animal species, and samples for Campylobacter quantification from broiler carcases, were more frequently positive when performed by the competent authorities than when own checks were conducted. Yersiniosis was the third most reported zoonosis in humans, followed by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Listeria monocytogenes infections. L. monocytogenes and West Nile virus infections were the most severe zoonotic diseases, with the most hospitalisations and highest case fatality rates. In 2022, reporting showed an increase of more than 600% compared with 2021 in locally acquired cases of human West Nile virus infection, which is a mosquito-borne disease. In the EU, the number of reported foodborne outbreaks and cases, hospitalisations and deaths was higher in 2022 than in 2021. The number of deaths from outbreaks was the highest ever reported in the EU in the last 10 years, mainly caused by L. monocytogenes and to a lesser degree by Salmonella. Salmonella and in particular S. Enteritidis remained the most frequently reported causative agent for foodborne outbreaks. Norovirus (and other calicivirus) was the agent associated with the highest number of outbreak human cases. This report also provides updates on brucellosis, Coxiella burnetii (Q fever), echinococcosis, rabies, toxoplasmosis, trichinellosis, infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (focusing on Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium caprae) and tularaemia.
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15
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Schneider C, Kratzer W, Binzberger A, Schlingeloff P, Baumann S, Romig T, Schmidberger J. Echinococcus multilocularis and other zoonotic helminths in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from a southern German hotspot for human alveolar echinococcosis. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:425. [PMID: 37980538 PMCID: PMC10657614 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06026-2] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We describe the spatial distribution of Echinococcus multilocularis in its main definitive host, the red fox, and the distribution of human cases of alveolar echinococcosis (AE) within a highly endemic focus in southern Germany (13.7-19.9/100,000 in 1992-2018). Human cases were unequally distributed within the endemicity focus. The purpose of the study was to test whether this is reflected in the small-scale distribution of E. multilocularis in foxes. METHODS Three areas with contrasting numbers of human cases were selected within the counties of Ravensburg and Alb-Donau, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. From 2018 to 2020, a total of 240 fox carcasses were obtained from traditional hunters in these areas. Carcasses were necropsied and examined for the presence of intestinal helminths. The statistical analysis was performed with SAS version 9.4, and the geo-mapping with QGIS version 3.16.0 Hannover. RESULTS The prevalence of E. multilocularis in foxes was 44/106 (41.5%) in area I (commune Leutkirch and environs), 30/59 (50.8%) in area II (commune Isny and environs), and 31/75 (41.3%) in area III (commune Ehingen and environs). From 1992 to 2018, a total of nine human cases of alveolar echinococcosis were recorded in area I, five cases were recorded in study area III, and no cases were recorded in area II. No statistically significant differences between the areas were observed (P > 0.05) for intestinal infections with E. multilocularis, and no apparent spatial correlation with the small-scale distribution of human cases was found. Concerning other zoonotic helminths, Toxocara spp. were equally common, with prevalence of 38.7%, 47.4% and 48.0%, respectively, while the frequency of Alaria alata varied among the study areas (0.0-9.4%), probably reflecting the specific habitat requirements for the establishment of its complex life cycle. CONCLUSIONS Echinococcus multilocularis is highly prevalent in foxes in all the studied areas. The varying number of human AE cases within these areas should therefore be caused by factors other than the intensity of parasite transmission in foxes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Schneider
- Department of Parasitology, Hohenheim University, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Kratzer
- Klinik Für Innere Medizin I, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Andreas Binzberger
- Klinik Für Innere Medizin I, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Patrycja Schlingeloff
- Klinik Für Innere Medizin I, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sven Baumann
- Klinik Für Innere Medizin I, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Thomas Romig
- Department of Parasitology, Hohenheim University, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Julian Schmidberger
- Klinik Für Innere Medizin I, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
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Müller S, Ghafoor S, Meyer Zu Schwabedissen C, Grimm F, Murray FR, Husmann L, Stanek N, Deplazes P, Schlag C, Kremer AE, Gubler C, Reiner CS, Semela D, Müllhaupt B, Deibel A. Management of biliary obstruction in patients with newly diagnosed alveolar echinococcosis: a Swiss retrospective cohort study. Swiss Med Wkly 2023; 153:40116. [PMID: 37956136 DOI: 10.57187/smw.2023.40116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Alveolar echinococcosis, an orphan zoonosis affecting the liver, is of increasing concern worldwide. Most symptomatic cases present at an advanced and inoperable stage, sometimes with biliary obstruction prompting biliary tract interventions. These are, however, associated with a high risk of infectious complications. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of conservative and interventional treatment approaches in patients with newly diagnosed alveolar echinococcosis and biliary obstruction. PATIENTS AND METHODS Alveolar echinococcosis patients treated at two referral centres in Switzerland, presenting with hyperbilirubinaemia (total bilirubin >1.5 Upper Limit of Normal) at diagnosis were included, unless another underlying aetiology, i.e. common bile duct stones or decompensated cirrhosis, was identified. Patients were divided into two groups, according to whether they initially received a biliary tract intervention. The primary endpoint was normalisation of bilirubin levels within a 6-month period. Secondary endpoints included, among others, the occurrence of early and late biliary complications, the need for biliary tract interventions during follow-up and overall duration of hospital stays for treatment initiation and for biliary complications. RESULTS 28 patients were included in this study, of whom 17 received benzimidazole therapy alone and 11 additionally received a biliary tract intervention. Baseline characteristics did not differ between groups. All but one patient in each group achieved the primary endpoint (p=0.747). Biliary tract intervention was associated with faster laboratory improvement (t1/2 1.3 vs 3.0 weeks), but also with more frequent early biliary complications (7/11 vs 1/17, p=0.002) and longer initial hospital stay (18 days vs 7 days, p=0.007). CONCLUSION Biliary obstruction in patients with newly diagnosed alveolar echinococcosis can be treated effectively with benzimidazole therapy alone. Biliary tract intervention, on the other hand, is associated with a high complication rate and should probably be reserved for patients with insufficient response to benzimidazole therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Müller
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Soleen Ghafoor
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Felix Grimm
- Institute of Parasitology, University Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Fritz Ruprecht Murray
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatalogy, Stadtspital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lars Husmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nadine Stanek
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Peter Deplazes
- Institute of Parasitology, University Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Schlag
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas E Kremer
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss HPB (Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary) Center, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Gubler
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatalogy, Stadtspital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cäcilia S Reiner
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Semela
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Beat Müllhaupt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss HPB (Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary) Center, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ansgar Deibel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss HPB (Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary) Center, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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17
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Arcenillas-Hernández I, de Ybáñez MRR, Martínez-Carrasco C. What is the sensitivity and exactness of post-mortem diagnostic method for cardiopulmonary nematodes in wild carnivores? towards the gold standard. Vet Res Commun 2023; 47:1369-1378. [PMID: 36918466 PMCID: PMC10485123 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10084-3] [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: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Cardiopulmonary nematodes cause health and fitness disorders in wild and domestic carnivores. The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) participates in the spread of these shared parasites at the domestic-wildlife interface. This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of post-mortem diagnostic method for detecting lungworms in carnivores, and its exactness to estimate the parasite intensity of each nematode species. Cardiorespiratory system of fifty-one foxes were examined through three consecutively methodological steps: first, the tracheobronchial tree, pulmonary arteries and their branches were opened (OT); next, lung parenchyma was immersed in water and squeezed (WS); finally, the parenchyma was artificially digested in a pepsin and chlorhydric acid solution (AD). Eucoleus aerophilus, Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis and Metathelazia capsulata were identified. The number of recovered nematodes in each step were 454 (OT), 285 (WS) and 141 (AD). The use of OT and WS helped to improve parasite intensity results and decreased false negative cases. Accordingly, when OT and WS were used together, the sensitivity in the detection of parasitized foxes was 96.1%, while the exactness of parasite intensity was 84%. When AD was performed, although sensitivity does not rise, results were more exact, increasing the total number of detected parasites by 16%. Moreover, AD improved the sensitivity in the detection of A. vasorum and M. capsulata, as well as quantifying more exactly the parasite intensity (92.5% and 92.3% of exactness without AD, respectively). Our study provides valuable information that should be taken into account when planning epidemiological studies based on cardiopulmonary nematode detection in carnivores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Arcenillas-Hernández
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Internacional "Campus Mare, Nostrum" Universidad de Murcia, Espinardo, Murcia, 30100, España
| | - M R Ruiz de Ybáñez
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Internacional "Campus Mare, Nostrum" Universidad de Murcia, Espinardo, Murcia, 30100, España.
| | - Carlos Martínez-Carrasco
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Internacional "Campus Mare, Nostrum" Universidad de Murcia, Espinardo, Murcia, 30100, España
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18
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Bezerra-Santos MA, Dantas-Torres F, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Thompson RCA, Modry D, Otranto D. Invasive mammalian wildlife and the risk of zoonotic parasites. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:786-798. [PMID: 37429777 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Invasive wild mammals are present in all continents, with Europe, North America, and the Asian-Pacific region having the largest number of established species. In particular, Europe has been the continent with the highest number of zoonotic parasites associated with invasive wild mammals. These invasive species may represent a major threat for the conservation of native ecosystems and may enter in the transmission cycle of native parasites, or act as spreaders of exotic parasites. Here, we review the role of invasive wild mammals as spreaders of zoonotic parasites, presenting important examples from Europe, America, and the Asia-Pacific region. Finally, we emphasize the need for more research on these mammals and their parasites, especially in areas where their monitoring is scantily performed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - R C Andrew Thompson
- Division of Veterinary Biology, School of Veterinary Studies, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - David Modry
- Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy; Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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19
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Nonnis F, Tamponi C, Tosciri G, Manconi M, Pudda F, Cabras P, Dessì G, Scala A, Varcasia A. Cardio-pulmonary nematodes of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) of Sardinia, Italy. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:1685-1688. [PMID: 37212835 PMCID: PMC10276099 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07882-8] [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: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Cardio-pulmonary parasites, such as Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, and Eucoleus aerophilus, pose a significant concern on account of pulmonary and cardiac problems they induce in dogs. While the red fox is known to be a key reservoir host for A. vasorum and may also play a role in transmitting C. vulpis and E. aerophilus, there has been no recent research on these parasites in foxes from Sardinia, with the most current studies dating back to 1986. A survey was conducted on red foxes in Sardinia, where a total of 51 foxes were collected, necropsied, and examined for adult worms in their hearts and lungs. The worms were identified using morphometric analysis and molecular methods. The results showed a 54.9% overall prevalence at dissection: 45.1% of the foxes were positive for E. aerophilus, 17.6% for C. vulpis, and 13.7% for A. vasorum. The molecular analyses validated the morphological characterization. In comparison to previous research, which found 13 out of 85 foxes to be positive for A. vasorum with a prevalence rate of 15.3% and 1 for E. aerophilus with a prevalence of 1.2%, this study showed an increased prevalence of E. aerophilus and C. vulpis, and a decrease in the prevalence of A. vasorum. These results indicate that the red foxes in Sardinia represent a reservoir host for cardio-pulmonary nematodes and it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of respiratory distress syndrome in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Nonnis
- Parassitologia Veterinaria, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudia Tamponi
- Parassitologia Veterinaria, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Gabriele Tosciri
- Parassitologia Veterinaria, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Manconi
- Parassitologia Veterinaria, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Flavia Pudda
- CARFS (Centro di Recupero della Fauna Selvatica Ferita) Forestas, Bonassai, Sardinia Italy
| | - Pierangela Cabras
- IZS (Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale) Sardegna, Tortoli, Sardinia Italy
| | - Giorgia Dessì
- Parassitologia Veterinaria, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Scala
- Parassitologia Veterinaria, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Varcasia
- Parassitologia Veterinaria, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Vienna, 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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20
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Cenni L, Simoncini A, Massetti L, Rizzoli A, Hauffe HC, Massolo A. Current and future distribution of a parasite with complex life cycle under global change scenarios: Echinococcus multilocularis in Europe. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2023; 29:2436-2449. [PMID: 36815401 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Global change is expected to have complex effects on the distribution and transmission patterns of zoonotic parasites. Modelling habitat suitability for parasites with complex life cycles is essential to further our understanding of how disease systems respond to environmental changes, and to make spatial predictions of their future distributions. However, the limited availability of high quality occurrence data with high spatial resolution often constrains these investigations. Using 449 reliable occurrence records for Echinococcus multilocularis from across Europe published over the last 35 years, we modelled habitat suitability for this parasite, the aetiological agent of alveolar echinococcosis, in order to describe its environmental niche, predict its current and future distribution under three global change scenarios, and quantify the probability of occurrence for each European country. Using a machine learning approach, we developed large-scale (25 × 25 km) species distribution models based on seven sets of predictors, each set representing a distinct biological hypothesis supported by current knowledge of the autecology of the parasite. The best-supported hypothesis included climatic, orographic and land-use/land-cover variables such as the temperature of the coldest quarter, forest cover, urban cover and the precipitation seasonality. Future projections suggested the appearance of highly suitable areas for E. multilocularis towards northern latitudes and in the whole Alpine region under all scenarios, while decreases in habitat suitability were predicted for central Europe. Our spatially explicit predictions of habitat suitability shed light on the complex responses of parasites to ongoing global changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Cenni
- Ethology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Applied Ecology Research Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Trento, Italy
- Conservation Genomics Research Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Trento, Italy
| | - Andrea Simoncini
- Ethology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luciano Massetti
- Institute of Bioeconomy of the National Research Council, Firenze, Italy
| | - Annapaola Rizzoli
- Applied Ecology Research Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Trento, Italy
| | - Heidi C Hauffe
- Conservation Genomics Research Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Trento, Italy
| | - Alessandro Massolo
- Ethology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Calgary, Canada
- UMR CNRS 6249 Chrono-environnement, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
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Santa MA, Umhang G, Klein C, Grant DM, Ruckstuhl KE, Musiani M, Gilleard JS, Massolo A. It's a small world for parasites: evidence supporting the North American invasion of European Echinococcus multilocularis. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20230128. [PMID: 36883278 PMCID: PMC9993045 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.0128] [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] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Echinococcus multilocularis (Em), the causative agent of human alveolar echinococcosis (AE), is present in the Holarctic region, and several genetic variants deem to have differential infectivity and pathogenicity. An unprecedented outbreak of human AE cases in Western Canada infected with a European-like strain circulating in wild hosts warranted assessment of whether this strain was derived from a recent invasion or was endemic but undetected. Using nuclear and mitochondrial markers, we investigated the genetic diversity of Em in wild coyotes and red foxes from Western Canada, compared the genetic variants identified to global isolates and assessed their spatial distribution to infer possible invasion dynamics. Genetic variants from Western Canada were closely related to the original European clade, with lesser genetic diversity than that expected for a long-established strain and spatial genetic discontinuities within the study area, supporting the hypothesis of a relatively recent invasion with various founder events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A. Santa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gerald Umhang
- Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-epidemiology Unit, ANSES, Technopôle Agricole et Vétérinaire, Malzéville, France
| | - Claudia Klein
- Department of Clinical and Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Bundesforschungsinstitut für Tiergesundheit, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Neustadt, Germany
| | - Danielle M. Grant
- Department of Clinical and Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- NORCE Climate, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Bjerknes Centre for Climate Research, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kathreen E. Ruckstuhl
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Marco Musiani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biologiche, Geologiche e Ambientali (BiGeA), University of Bologna, Italy
| | - John S. Gilleard
- Department of Comparative Biology & Experimental Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions (HPI) program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alessandro Massolo
- Ethology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- UMR CNRS 6249 Chrono-environnement, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Zoonotic helminths - why the challenge remains. J Helminthol 2023; 97:e21. [PMID: 36790130 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x23000020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Helminth zoonoses remain a global problem to public health and the economy of many countries. Polymerase chain reaction-based techniques and sequencing have resolved many taxonomic issues and are now essential to understanding the epidemiology of helminth zoonotic infections and the ecology of the causative agents. This is clearly demonstrated from research on Echinococcus (echinococcosis) and Trichinella (trichinosis). Unfortunately, a variety of anthropogenic factors are worsening the problems caused by helminth zoonoses. These include cultural factors, urbanization and climate change. Wildlife plays an increasingly important role in the maintenance of many helminth zoonoses making surveillance and control increasingly difficult. The emergence or re-emergence of helminth zoonoses such as Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Toxocara, Dracunculus and Thelazia exacerbate an already discouraging scenario compounding the control of a group of long neglected diseases.
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23
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Mendoza Roldan JA, Otranto D. Zoonotic parasites associated with predation by dogs and cats. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:55. [PMID: 36747243 PMCID: PMC9901148 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05670-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most common behaviors of cats that have an indoor/outdoor lifestyle is to bring hunted "gifts" to their owners, represented by small mammals, reptiles and birds. Access to the outdoors by dogs and cats may represent a problematic issue, since they may be at risk of diseases, traffic accidents and ingestion of toxins. Yet, the impact of this population of roaming dogs and cats predating wildlife is another concerning issue that receives less attention. Despite these risks, most owners still prefer to give outdoor access to their pets to allow them to express their "natural instincts," such as hunting. Therefore, with a growing population of > 470 million dogs and 373 million cats worldwide, predation not only represents a threat to wildlife, but also a door of transmission for parasitic diseases, some of them of zoonotic concern. In this review, the role played by dogs, and especially cats, in the perpetuation of the biological life cycle of zoonotic parasites through the predation of rodents, reptiles and birds is discussed. Feral and domestics dogs and cats have contributed to the population collapse or extinction of > 63 species of reptiles, mammals and birds. Although the ecological impact of predation on wild populations is well documented, the zoonotic risk of transmission of parasitic diseases has not received significant attention. The parasitic diseases associated to predation vary from protozoan agents, such as toxoplasmosis, to cestodes like sparganosis and even nematodes such as toxocariasis. Raising awareness about predation as a risk of zoonotic parasitic infections in dogs and cats will aid to create responsible ownership and proper actions for controlling feral and free-roaming cat and dog populations worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy. .,Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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Veronesi F, Deak G, Diakou A. Wild Mesocarnivores as Reservoirs of Endoparasites Causing Important Zoonoses and Emerging Bridging Infections across Europe. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020178. [PMID: 36839450 PMCID: PMC9964259 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesocarnivores are small- or mid-sized carnivore species that display a variety of ecologies and behaviours. In Europe, wild mesocarnivores are represented by the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), the golden jackal (Canis aureus), the European wildcat (Felis silvestris), the Mustelidae of the genera Meles, Martes, Mustela, Lutra, the invasive species of raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides), raccoons (Procyon lotor), and American mink (Neogale vison). These abundant animals thrive in various habitats and often develop their activity close to human settlements. Thus, they may play an important role in the introduction, maintenance, and transmission of major parasitic zoonoses and promote bridging infections with domestic animals. Against this background, this article reports and discusses some of the most important endoparasites of wild mesocarnivores living in Europe, on the basis of their actual role as reservoirs, spreaders, or sentinels. The data derived from epizootiological studies in different European countries, and the proven or speculated implications of the detected endoparasites in human and domestic animals' health, are discussed. Through older and recent literature review, the state-of-the-art knowledge on the occurrence and prevalence of the parasites under consideration is presented, showing further, warranted investigations and the need for surveillance and vigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizia Veronesi
- Parasitology Laboratory of the University Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, 06124 Perugia, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (G.D.); (A.D.)
| | - Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (G.D.); (A.D.)
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (G.D.); (A.D.)
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Lesiczka PM, Rudenko N, Golovchenko M, Juránková J, Daněk O, Modrý D, Hrazdilová K. Red fox (Vulpes vulpes) play an important role in the propagation of tick-borne pathogens. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102076. [PMID: 36345066 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.102076] [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: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is the most widespread free-living carnivore in the world. Over the years, foxes have been recognized as hosts for a number of tick-borne pathogens. However, their role as reservoirs for zoonotic tick-borne diseases is poorly understood. The aim of our study was to investigate tick-borne pathogens in the red fox population in the Czech Republic. Out of 117 red foxes, 110 (94.02%) individuals tested positive for the presence of at least one pathogen by the combined PCR and sequencing approach. Hepatozoon canis was the most frequently detected pathogen (n = 95; 81.2%), followed by Babesia vulpes (n = 75; 64.1%). Babesia canis was not detected in our study. Four (3.42%) red foxes were positive for Candidatus Neoehrlichia sp., 3 (2.56%) for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and one red fox (0.85%) tested positive for the presence of Ehrlichia sp. DNA. Overall, DNA of spirochetes from the Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. complex was detected in 8.6% of the foxes and B. miyamotoi in 5.12% of the samples. As a carnivore found in all ecosystems of Central Europe, foxes obviously contribute to transmission of tick-borne pathogens such as A. phagocytophilum, B. burgdorferi s.l., and B. myiamotoi. In addition, foxes apparently harbour a community of pathogens, associated with this host in local ecological context, dominated by H. canis and B. vulpes (possibly also Candidatus Neoehrlichia sp.). These species have the potential to spread to the domestic dog population and should be included in the differential diagnosis of febrile diseases with hematologic abnormalities in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Maria Lesiczka
- Department of Veterinary Sciences/CINeZ, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Prague, Czech Republic; CEITEC VETUNI, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Palackého třída 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Natalia Rudenko
- Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Maryna Golovchenko
- Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Juránková
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Palackého třída 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Daněk
- Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, Palackého třída 1946/1, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - David Modrý
- Department of Veterinary Sciences/CINeZ, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Prague, Czech Republic; Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Hrazdilová
- Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Biomedical Center, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, Plzeň, Czech Republic; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University, Zemědělská 1665/1, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Alvi MA, Alsayeqh AF. Food-borne zoonotic echinococcosis: A review with special focus on epidemiology. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1072730. [PMID: 36605765 PMCID: PMC9807814 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1072730] [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: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinococcosis is a neglected, WHO-listed cyclozoonotic parasitic disease that is caused by a number of species belonging to the genus Echinococcus. This disease is widespread across the globe, resulting in heavy economic losses for farmers and cystic disease in aberrant human hosts. This review paper briefly discussed taxonomy, a brief history, the magnitude of economic losses, host spectrum and life cycle, risk factors, and clinical manifestations. Furthermore, the copro- and sero-ELISA-based prevalence of echinococcosis on different continents was summarized. Finally, the authors analyzed the frequency and use of molecular epidemiology in the taxonomy of Echinococcus species based on molecular markers. This review will serve as a quick reference to Echinococcus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mughees Aizaz Alvi
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah F. Alsayeqh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia,*Correspondence: Abdullah F. Alsayeqh
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27
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Oehm AW, Schnyder M. Adult parasite burden and excretion of first-stage larvae of Angiostrongylus vasorum in dogs: Methodologically relevant diagnostic aspects and associations with serological detection of parasite antigen and specific antibodies. Vet Parasitol 2022; 312:109814. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2022.109814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abstract
This report of the European Food Safety Authority and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control presents the results of zoonoses monitoring and surveillance activities carried out in 2021 in 27 MSs, the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) and nine non-MSs. Key statistics on zoonoses and zoonotic agents in humans, food, animals and feed are provided and interpreted historically. In 2021, the first and second most reported zoonoses in humans were campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis, respectively. Cases of campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis increased in comparison with 2020, but decreased compared with previous years. In 2021, data collection and analysis at the EU level were still impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the control measures adopted in the MSs, including partial or total lockdowns. Sixteen MSs and the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) achieved all the established targets in poultry populations for reduction in Salmonella prevalence for the relevant serovars. Salmonella samples from carcases of various animal species and samples for Campylobacter quantification from broiler carcases were more frequently positive when performed by the competent authorities than when own-checks were conducted. Yersiniosis was the third most reported zoonosis in humans, followed by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Listeria monocytogenes infections. L. monocytogenes and West Nile virus infections were the most severe zoonotic diseases, with the most hospitalisations and highest case fatality rates. Overall, MSs reported more foodborne outbreaks and cases in 2021 than in 2020. S. Enteritidis remained the most frequently reported causative agent for foodborne outbreaks. Salmonella in 'eggs and egg products' and in 'mixed foods' were the agent/food pairs of most concern. Outbreaks linked to 'vegetables and juices and products thereof' rose considerably compared with previous years. This report also provides updates on brucellosis, Coxiella burnetii (Q fever), echinococcosis, rabies, toxoplasmosis, trichinellosis, tuberculosis due to Mycobacterium bovis or M. caprae, and tularaemia.
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Arcenillas-Hernández I, Ruiz de Ybáñez M, Tizzani P, Pérez-Cutillas P, Martínez-Carrasco C. Pearsonema plica in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from semi-arid areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2022; 19:78-83. [PMID: 36090666 PMCID: PMC9449666 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Tull A, Valdmann H, Tammeleht E, Kaasiku T, Rannap R, Saarma U. High overlap of zoonotic helminths between wild mammalian predators and rural dogs - an emerging One Health concern? Parasitology 2022; 149:1565-1574. [PMID: 35924728 PMCID: PMC11010195 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022001032] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The concept of One Health emphasizes the interdependence of human, animal and environmental health and is of growing significance, in part owing to the problems related to emerging infectious diseases of wildlife origin. Wild mammalian predators are a potential risk factor for transmission of zoonotic pathogens to domesticated animals and humans. This is especially relevant in rural areas, where transmission of zoonotic pathogens can occur particularly efficiently when free-ranging dogs are present. The main aim of this study was to determine helminth infections among wild mammalian predators and evaluate the overlap between helminth faunas of wild mammals and dogs. Scat samples of predators were collected in coastal areas of Western Estonia and genetic methodology applied for the correct identification of predator species from their scat. Parasitic helminths of mammalian predators in the scat samples were analysed and compared with dog data from a previous study. High helminth prevalence (~90%) was found in dominant predator species in the area, namely the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and golden jackal (Canis aureus). Moreover, the helminth fauna of both wild species, including potentially zoonotic helminths, overlapped largely with that of rural dogs in the same area. The results, together with the ones from earlier parasitological studies among humans in Estonia, emphasize the potential risk of pathogen transmission from wild mammalian predators to dogs and from dogs to humans, making parasitic diseases of wildlife a One Health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ants Tull
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, J. Liivi 2, 50409 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Harri Valdmann
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, J. Liivi 2, 50409 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Egle Tammeleht
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, J. Liivi 2, 50409 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Triin Kaasiku
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, J. Liivi 2, 50409 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Riinu Rannap
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, J. Liivi 2, 50409 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Urmas Saarma
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, J. Liivi 2, 50409 Tartu, Estonia
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Wild Carnivore Survey of Echinococcus Species in Slovenia. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12172223. [PMID: 36077943 PMCID: PMC9454715 DOI: 10.3390/ani12172223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild carnivores are definitive hosts and potential reservoirs for the tapeworm Echinococcus sp. which can cause cystic and alveolar echinococcosis. Both are considered neglected and important food-borne pandemics. This study is the first to molecularly test Slovenian wild carnivores for Echinococcus species that can cause disease in humans. Fecal samples from 210 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), 42 wolves (Canis lupus), 39 golden jackals (Canis aureus), 18 martens (Marten sp.), 2 Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), 2 European badger (Meles meles), and 1 Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) were examined for Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (EGsl: E. granulosus sensu stricto, E. canadensis) and E. multilocularis (EM) using real-time PCR. Red foxes (29.1%) and golden jackals (18%) were positive for EM. All animals examined were negative for EGsl. Univariate analysis showed no significant differences in EM prevalence with respect to animal species (red fox vs., golden jackal) (p = 0.22), age (p = 0.12), and sex (p = 0.18). Prevalence of EM was associated with the region (p < 0.001), with regions in central and southern Slovenia having higher EM prevalence and risk of infection. Due to the increase in population and expansion of habitat, the golden jackal may soon become as important definitive host for EM as the red fox.
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EROL U, DANYER E, ÜTÜK AE. Türkiye’de kızıl tilki beyin (Vulpes vulpes) örneğinde Neospora caninum’un ilk moleküler tespiti. ANKARA ÜNIVERSITESI VETERINER FAKÜLTESI DERGISI 2022. [DOI: 10.33988/auvfd.1121661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Kızıl tilki dünyada en geniş yayılım alanına sahip yabani karnivordur. Kızıl tilkiler besin zincirinin tepesinde yer almakta ve bu nedenle de birçok parazit türüne ara konaklık veya son konaklık yapmaktadır. Neospora caninum sığır, koyun ve keçilerde atıklara neden olan en önemli protozoal etkenlerden birisidir. N. caninum’un son konakları evcil köpekler ile kurt ve çakal gibi yabani karnivorlar iken ara konakları ise evcil ruminantlar ile kızıl tilki gibi çeşitli sıcakkanlı hayvanlardır. Bu çalışmanın amacı yaban hayatından elde edilen üç kızıl tilkinin beyin örneklerinde N. caninum’un PCR ile araştırılmasıdır. Çalışma ile üç kızıl tilkinin birinde N. caninum DNA’sı tespit edilmiştir. Bu çalışma ile Türkiye’de ilk kez kızıl tilki beyin örneğinde N. caninum DNA’sı tespit edilmiştir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ufuk EROL
- SİVAS CUMHURİYET ÜNİVERSİTESİ, VETERİNER FAKÜLTESİ
| | | | - Armağan Erdem ÜTÜK
- ÇUKUROVA ÜNİVERSİTESİ, CEYHAN VETERİNER FAKÜLTESİ, KLİNİK ÖNCESİ BİLİMLERİ BÖLÜMÜ
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Miró G, Wright I, Michael H, Burton W, Hegarty E, Rodón J, Buch J, Pantchev N, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G. Seropositivity of main vector-borne pathogens in dogs across Europe. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:189. [PMID: 35668469 PMCID: PMC9169295 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05316-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine vector-borne disease (CVBD) has been an area of increasing interest in Europe over the last few decades, and there have been changes in the prevalence and distribution of many of these diseases. Monitoring CVBD infections in Europe is often done by individual countries, but aggregated data for the European countries are helpful to understand the distribution of CVBDs. METHODS We used an extensive retrospective database of results from point-of-care rapid enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests on dogs across Europe to identify distribution and seropositivity in animals tested for selected CVBDs (Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Borrelia burgdorferi, Leishmania spp., and Dirofilaria immitis) from 2016 through 2020. Geographic distribution of positive tests and relative percent positive values were mapped by the Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics classification for regions with sufficient test results for reporting. RESULTS A total of 404,617 samples corresponding to 1,134,648 canine results were available from dogs tested in 35 countries over the 5-year study period. Over this period the number of test results per year increased whereas test positivity decreased. Leishmania spp. had the largest increase in total test results from 25,000 results in 2016 to over 60,000 results in 2020. Test positivity for Leishmania spp. fell from 13.9% in 2016 to 9.4% in 2020. Test positivity fell for Anaplasma spp. (7.3 to 5.3%), Ehrlichia spp. (4.3 to 3.4%), and Borrelia burgdorferi (3.3 to 2.4%). Dirofilaria immitis test positivity trended down with a high of 2.7% in 2016 and low of 1.8% in 2018. Leishmania spp. test positivity was highest in endemic areas and in several non-endemic countries with low numbers of test results. Co-positivity rates were significantly higher than expected for all pathogen test positive pairs except for Ehrlichia spp. with Borrelia burgdorferi and D. immitis with Borrelia burgdorferi. CONCLUSIONS This study represents the largest data set on CVBD seropositivity in Europe to date. The increase in the number of test results and decreasing test positivity over the study period may reflect changes in testing behavior and increased screening of healthy animals. The Europe-wide mapping of CVBD provides expected test positivity that can help inform veterinarians' decisions on screening and improve prevention and identification of these important, sometimes zoonotic, diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guadalupe Miró
- Department of Animal Health, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ian Wright
- Mount Veterinary Practice, Fleetwood, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Jesse Buch
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc, Westbrook, ME, USA
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Massolo A, Simoncini A, Romig T. The ‘bridge effect’ by intermediate hosts may explain differential distributions of Echinococcus species. Trends Parasitol 2022; 38:501-512. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Deibel A, Meyer zu Schwabedissen C, Husmann L, Grimm F, Deplazes P, Reiner CS, Müllhaupt B. Characteristics and Clinical Course of Alveolar Echinococcosis in Patients with Immunosuppression-Associated Conditions: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11040441. [PMID: 35456117 PMCID: PMC9032794 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11040441] [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: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Since the change in the millennium, an increase in cases of alveolar echinococcosis (AE) has been observed in endemic European countries. Previous studies indicate that a significant proportion of the new AE cases have an immunosuppression-associated condition (IAC). The aim of the current study was to determine how IACs impact the number of new AE diagnoses per year and the characteristics of AE at diagnosis and its clinical course at our center. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 189 patients with AE diagnosed between 2000 and 2021 and participating in the Zurich Echinococcosis Cohort Study (ZECS) included clinical characteristics of AE at diagnosis and report of an IAC, as well as the clinical course during follow-up. Results: Of 189 patients participating in this study, 38 had an IAC reported at, or shortly after, AE diagnosis. Over time, there was a steeper increase in the number of newly diagnosed AE patients without an IAC than the number of patients with IAC. Patients with an IAC were older at diagnosis, more frequently had an incidental finding of AE, smaller mean lesion size, and negative Em18 serology. All but two showed favorable outcomes on the last follow-up. Conclusion: IACs have little impact on the increase in new AE cases, as well as on the extent of the disease at diagnosis and clinical course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ansgar Deibel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (C.M.z.S.); (B.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-432539700
| | | | - Lars Husmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Felix Grimm
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse and Medical Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (F.G.); (P.D.)
| | - Peter Deplazes
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse and Medical Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (F.G.); (P.D.)
| | - Cäcilia S. Reiner
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Beat Müllhaupt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (C.M.z.S.); (B.M.)
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Porter E, Seguin MA, Estrada M, Szlosek D, Massolo A, Visscher DR. Assessing the potential for infections of Echinococcus multilocularis in dogs in a hotspot of human alveolar echinococcosis infections in North America. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 29:100704. [PMID: 35256128 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Echinococcus multilocularis is a zoonotic tapeworm, whose metacestode larval stage is the etiological agent for alveolar echinococcosis in humans and is a parasite of emerging concern according to the World Health Organization which is difficult to diagnose and has a case mortality rate of >90% when left untreated. Echinococcus multilocularis requires two mammalian hosts to complete its lifecycle: wild and domestic canids as definitive hosts, and small mammals (mostly rodents) as intermediate ones. Because of their close relations with humans, domestic dogs have been indicated as a mean of infection to people. Human alveolar echinococcosis has historically been rare in North America, however, since 2013, at least seventeen diagnoses have been confirmed in Alberta, Canada. Because of this unprecedented series of cases, assessing the frequency of infections in dogs in Alberta is key to estimate risk for dog owners and animal health professionals. This study was carried out in Edmonton to determine the frequency of E. multilocularis infection in domestic dogs and potential risk factors. Fecal samples and corresponding behavior risk surveys were collected from 775 dogs in seven urban off-leash parks within Edmonton city limits during the summer of 2020. A quantitative PCR fecal test was used to diagnose E. multilocularis infection. We found a single case of E. multilocularis infection (1/775) and determined that the overall true prevalence was 0.2% (95% CrI: 0.0-0.7%) corrected for detection sensitivity and specificity. Overall, these findings confirm the presence of E. multilocularis infection in domestic dogs in Edmonton although further work is required to fully understand the risk factors that may contribute to infection and potential transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Porter
- Department of Biology, The King's University, 9125 50 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 2H3, Canada
| | - M Alexis Seguin
- IDEXX Reference Laboratories, Inc, Westbrook, ME 04092, United States of America
| | - Marko Estrada
- IDEXX Reference Laboratories, Inc, Westbrook, ME 04092, United States of America
| | - Donald Szlosek
- IDEXX Reference Laboratories, Inc, Westbrook, ME 04092, United States of America
| | - Alessandro Massolo
- Ethology Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Volta 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Department of Ecosystem and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada; UMR CNRS 6249 Chrono-environnement, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 16 Route de Gray, 25030 Besançon, France
| | - Darcy R Visscher
- Department of Biology, The King's University, 9125 50 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 2H3, Canada; Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, CW405 Biological Sciences Bldg., Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada; Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Darwinweg 2, 2333CR Leiden, the Netherlands.
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Combs MA, Kache PA, VanAcker MC, Gregory N, Plimpton LD, Tufts DM, Fernandez MP, Diuk-Wasser MA. Socio-ecological drivers of multiple zoonotic hazards in highly urbanized cities. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2022; 28:1705-1724. [PMID: 34889003 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of pathogen spillover from wildlife to human hosts, particularly in densely populated urban centers. Prevention of future zoonotic disease is contingent on informed surveillance for known and novel threats across diverse human-wildlife interfaces. Cities are a key venue for potential spillover events because of the presence of zoonotic pathogens transmitted by hosts and vectors living in close proximity to dense human settlements. Effectively identifying and managing zoonotic hazards requires understanding the socio-ecological processes driving hazard distribution and pathogen prevalence in dynamic and heterogeneous urban landscapes. Despite increasing awareness of the human health impacts of zoonotic hazards, the integration of an eco-epidemiological perspective into public health management plans remains limited. Here we discuss how landscape patterns, abiotic conditions, and biotic interactions influence zoonotic hazards across highly urbanized cities (HUCs) in temperate climates to promote their efficient and effective management by a multi-sectoral coalition of public health stakeholders. We describe how to interpret both direct and indirect ecological processes, incorporate spatial scale, and evaluate networks of connectivity specific to different zoonotic hazards to promote biologically-informed and targeted decision-making. Using New York City, USA as a case study, we identify major zoonotic threats, apply knowledge of relevant ecological factors, and highlight opportunities and challenges for research and intervention. We aim to broaden the toolbox of urban public health stakeholders by providing ecologically-informed, practical guidance for the evaluation and management of zoonotic hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Combs
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Pallavi A Kache
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Meredith C VanAcker
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nichar Gregory
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Laura D Plimpton
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Danielle M Tufts
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Department, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maria P Fernandez
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Maria A Diuk-Wasser
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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Morelli S, Diakou A, Di Cesare A, Colombo M, Traversa D. Canine and Feline Parasitology: Analogies, Differences, and Relevance for Human Health. Clin Microbiol Rev 2021; 34:e0026620. [PMID: 34378954 PMCID: PMC8404700 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00266-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cats and dogs are treated as family members by most pet owners. Therefore, a high quality of veterinary care and preventive medicine is imperative for animal health and welfare and for the protection of humans from zoonotic pathogens. There is a general perception of cats being treated as "small dogs," especially in the field of clinical parasitology. As a result, several important differences between the two animal species are not taken into proper consideration and are often overlooked. Dogs and cats are profoundly different under evolutionary, biological, ethological, behavioral, and immunological standpoints. These differences impact clinical features, diagnosis, and control of canine and feline parasites and transmission risk for humans. This review outlines the most common parasitoses and vector-borne diseases of dogs and cats, with a focus on major convergences and divergences, and discusses parasites that have (i) evolved based on different preys for dogs and cats, (ii) adapted due to different immunological or behavioral animal profiles, and (iii) developed more similarities than differences in canine and feline infections and associated diseases. Differences, similarities, and peculiarities of canine and feline parasitology are herein reviewed in three macrosections: (i) carnivorism, vegetarianism, anatomy, genetics, and parasites, (ii) evolutionary adaptation of nematodes, including veterinary reconsideration and zoonotic importance, and (iii) behavior and immune system driving ectoparasites and transmitted diseases. Emphasis is given to provide further steps toward a more accurate evaluation of canine and feline parasitology in a changing world in terms of public health relevance and One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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Globokar M, Pantchev N, Hinney B, Leschnik M, Peschke R, Schaper R, Schnyder M. Serological and faecal detection of Angiostrongylus vasorum in dogs from Austria. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2021; 26:100641. [PMID: 34879952 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Canine angiostrongylosis is a potentially lethal parasitic disease that can manifest itself with a broad spectrum of clinical signs, including respiratory distress, neurological and bleeding disorders, or non-specific signs. The occurrence of Angiostrongylus vasorum is widely reported in Europe, but very little is known about its presence in Austria. In this first large-scale survey, 1279 sera were collected from Austrian dogs and tested by an ELISA for the detection of circulating antigen of A. vasorum (sensitivity: 95.7%, specificity 94.0%) and by a separate ELISA detecting specific antibodies (sensitivity 81.0%, specificity 98.8%). Furthermore, 1040 faecal samples were tested for the presence of lungworm first stage larvae (L1). One dog (0.1%, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.0-0.4%) was positive in both ELISAs, while 1.2% (n = 15, CI: 0.7-1.9%) of the tested dogs were antigen-positive and 1.5% (n = 19, CI: 0.9-2.3%) were positive for specific antibodies. Overall, 13 dogs (1.3%; CI: 0.7-2.1%) were positive for A. vasorum L1 while 31 dogs were positive for Crenosoma vulpis L1 (3.0%; CI: 2.0-4.2%). One dog shed L1 from both A. vasorum and C. vulpis (0.1%, CI: 0.0-0.5%). Dogs positive for A. vasorum originated from northeast, southeast and south Austria (antigen and/or antibody detection), but also from north, west and southwest Austria (antibody detection) and from northeast and west Austria (L1 detection). One of 88 blood samples (1.1%, CI: 0.0-6.2%) submitted from the eastern part of Austria was positive by a rapid assay for A. vasorum antigen detection (Angio Detect™). Crenosoma vulpis positive samples originated from northwest, north, northeast, south and west Austria. These results confirm the very sporadic occurrence of A. vasorum in the investigated areas of the country. However, due to the substantial infectious pressure from the surrounding countries and the free circulation of dogs and foxes acting as wildlife reservoirs and due to clinical relevance for infected dogs, it is crucial to maintain disease awareness also in areas where the parasite has not yet been detected.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Barbara Hinney
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Leschnik
- Clinical Unit of Internal Medicine Small Animals, University Hospital for Small Animals, Department/Hospital for Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roman Peschke
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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Abstract
This report of the EFSA and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control presents the results of zoonoses monitoring activities carried out in 2020 in 27 EU Member States (MS) and nine non-MS. Key statistics on zoonoses and zoonotic agents in humans, food, animals and feed are provided and interpreted historically. Two events impacted 2020 MS data collection and related statistics: the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU. In 2020, the first and second most reported zoonoses in humans were campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis, respectively. The EU trend for confirmed human cases of these two diseases was stable (flat) from 2016 to 2020. Fourteen of the 26 MS reporting data on Salmonella control programmes in poultry met the reduction targets for all poultry categories. Salmonella results for carcases of various species performed by competent authorities were more frequently positive than own-checks conducted by food business operators. This was also the case for Campylobacter quantification results from broiler carcases for the MS group that submitted data from both samplers, whereas overall at EU level, those percentages were comparable. Yersiniosis was the third most reported zoonosis in humans, with 10-fold less cases reported than salmonellosis, followed by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Listeria monocytogenes infections. Illnesses caused by L. monocytogenes and West Nile virus infections were the most severe zoonotic diseases with the highest case fatality. In 2020, 27 MS reported 3,086 foodborne outbreaks (a 47.0% decrease from 2019) and 20,017 human cases (a 61.3% decrease). Salmonella remained the most frequently reported causative agent for foodborne outbreaks. Salmonella in 'eggs and egg products', norovirus in 'crustaceans, shellfish, molluscs and products containing them' and L. monocytogenes in 'fish and fish products' were the agent/food pairs of most concern. This report also provides updates on tuberculosis due to Mycobacterium bovis or Mycobacterium caprae, Brucella, Trichinella, Echinococcus, Toxoplasma, rabies, Coxiella burnetii (Q fever) and tularaemia.
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Da Silva AM, Bastien M, Umhang G, Boué F, Bastid V, Boucher JM, Caillot C, de Garam CP, Renault C, Faisse M, Courquet S, Scalabrino V, Millon L, Knapp J, Poulle ML. Soil contamination by Echinococcus multilocularis in rural and urban vegetable gardens in relation to fox, cat and dog faecal deposits. Parasite 2021; 28:74. [PMID: 34723788 PMCID: PMC8559720 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2021073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinococcus multilocularis eggs are deposited on the ground with the faeces of the carnivore definitive hosts. A reliable assessment of the spatial distribution of E. multilocularis eggs in environments used by humans is crucial for the prevention of alveolar echinococcosis (AE). This study was conducted in 192 rural and 71 urban vegetable gardens in AE endemic areas of north-eastern France. Its objective was to explore the relationship between the spatial distribution of E. multilocularis estimated from the collection and molecular analysis of two types of samples: faeces and soil. A total of 1024 carnivore faeces and 463 soil samples were collected and analysed by real-time PCR. No fox droppings and no positive soil samples were collected from the urban gardens. Positive soil samples, positive carnivore faeces, or both, were found in 42%, 24% and 6% of the sampled rural gardens, respectively. No significant association was found between the detection of E. multilocularis in soil samples collected from 50 gardens during a single sampling session and the extent and frequency of deposits of fox and cat faeces collected during repeated sampling sessions conducted in the previous months. In 19/50 gardens, E. multilocularis was detected in the soil while no positive faeces had been collected in the previous 12 months. Conversely, in 8/50 gardens, no soil samples were positive although positive faeces had been collected in the previous months. Collecting and analysing faeces provide information on soil contamination at a given time, while analysing soil samples provides an overview of long-term contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdou Malik Da Silva
- Chrono-Environnement, UMR UBFC/CNRS 6249 Aff. INRA, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25030 Besançon, France - Department of Parasitology-Mycology, National Reference Centre for Echinococcoses, University Hospital of Besançon, 25030 Besançon, France
| | - Matthieu Bastien
- Entente for the Control of Zoonoses, Malzéville, 54220 Nancy, France - Epidémio-Surveillance et Circulation des Parasites dans les Environnements (ESCAPE), EA 7510, CAP SANTE, Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne, 51095 Reims Cedex, France
| | - Gérald Umhang
- ANSES Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-Epidemiology Unit, Technopole Agricole et Vétérinaire, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Franck Boué
- ANSES Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-Epidemiology Unit, Technopole Agricole et Vétérinaire, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Vanessa Bastid
- ANSES Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-Epidemiology Unit, Technopole Agricole et Vétérinaire, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Jean-Marc Boucher
- ANSES Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-Epidemiology Unit, Technopole Agricole et Vétérinaire, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Christophe Caillot
- ANSES Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-Epidemiology Unit, Technopole Agricole et Vétérinaire, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Carine Peytavin de Garam
- ANSES Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-Epidemiology Unit, Technopole Agricole et Vétérinaire, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Camille Renault
- ANSES Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-Epidemiology Unit, Technopole Agricole et Vétérinaire, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Marine Faisse
- Entente for the Control of Zoonoses, Malzéville, 54220 Nancy, France - ANSES Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-Epidemiology Unit, Technopole Agricole et Vétérinaire, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Sandra Courquet
- Chrono-Environnement, UMR UBFC/CNRS 6249 Aff. INRA, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25030 Besançon, France - Department of Parasitology-Mycology, National Reference Centre for Echinococcoses, University Hospital of Besançon, 25030 Besançon, France
| | - Vincent Scalabrino
- Chrono-Environnement, UMR UBFC/CNRS 6249 Aff. INRA, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25030 Besançon, France
| | - Laurence Millon
- Chrono-Environnement, UMR UBFC/CNRS 6249 Aff. INRA, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25030 Besançon, France - Department of Parasitology-Mycology, National Reference Centre for Echinococcoses, University Hospital of Besançon, 25030 Besançon, France
| | - Jenny Knapp
- Chrono-Environnement, UMR UBFC/CNRS 6249 Aff. INRA, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25030 Besançon, France - Department of Parasitology-Mycology, National Reference Centre for Echinococcoses, University Hospital of Besançon, 25030 Besançon, France
| | - Marie-Lazarine Poulle
- Epidémio-Surveillance et Circulation des Parasites dans les Environnements (ESCAPE), EA 7510, CAP SANTE, Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne, 51095 Reims Cedex, France - CERFE, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 08240 Boult-aux-Bois, France
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Lightowlers MW, Gasser RB, Hemphill A, Romig T, Tamarozzi F, Deplazes P, Torgerson PR, Garcia HH, Kern P. Advances in the treatment, diagnosis, control and scientific understanding of taeniid cestode parasite infections over the past 50 years. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:1167-1192. [PMID: 34757089 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In the past 50 years, enormous progress has been made in the diagnosis, treatment and control of taeniid cestode infections/diseases and in the scientific understanding thereof. Most interest in this group of parasites stems from the serious diseases that they cause in humans. It is through this lens that we summarize here the most important breakthroughs that have made a difference to the treatment of human diseases caused by these parasites, reduction in transmission of the taeniid species associated with human disease, or understanding of the parasites' biology likely to impact diagnosis or treatment in the foreseeable future. Key topics discussed are the introduction of anti-cestode drugs, including benzimidazoles and praziquantel, and the development of new imaging modalities that have transformed the diagnosis and post-treatment monitoring of human echinococcoses and neurocysticercosis. The availability of new anti-cestode drugs for use in dogs and a detailed understanding of the transmission dynamics of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato have underpinned successful programs that have eliminated cystic echinococcosis in some areas of the world and greatly reduced the incidence of infection in others. Despite these successes, cystic and alveolar echinococcosis and neurocysticercosis continue to be prevalent in many parts of the world, requiring new or renewed efforts to prevent the associated taeniid infections. Major advances made in the development of practical vaccines against E. granulosus and Taenia solium will hopefully assist in this endeavour, as might the understanding of the parasites' biology that have come from an elucidation of the nuclear genomes of each of the most important taeniid species causing human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marshall W Lightowlers
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia.
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Romig
- University of Hohenheim, Parasitology Unit, Emil-Wolff-Strasse 34, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Francesca Tamarozzi
- Department of Infectious Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, 37024 Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - Peter Deplazes
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse, and Medical Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Paul R Torgerson
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Hector H Garcia
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory Research-LID, Faculty of Science and Philosophy, Alberto Cazorla Talleri, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Perú; Cysticercosis Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurológicas, Lima, Perú
| | - Peter Kern
- Ulm University Hospital, Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany
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Abstract
Human toxocariasis is a neglected tropical disease, which is actually global in distribution and has a significant impact on global public health. The infection can lead to several serious conditions in humans, including allergic, ophthalmic and neurological disorders such as epilepsy. It is caused by the common roundworm species Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, with humans becoming accidentally infected via the ingestion of eggs or larvae. Toxocara eggs are deposited on the ground when infected dogs, cats and foxes defecate, with the eggs contaminating crops, grazing pastures, and subsequently food animals. However, transmission of Toxocara to humans via food consumption has received relatively little attention in the literature. To establish the risks that contaminated food poses to the public, a renewed research focus is required. This review discusses what is currently known about food-borne Toxocara transmission, highlighting the gaps in our understanding that require further attention, and outlining some potential preventative strategies which could be employed to safeguard consumer health.
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Fuehrer HP, Morelli S, Unterköfler MS, Bajer A, Bakran-Lebl K, Dwużnik-Szarek D, Farkas R, Grandi G, Heddergott M, Jokelainen P, Knific T, Leschnik M, Miterpáková M, Modrý D, Petersen HH, Skírnisson K, Vergles Rataj A, Schnyder M, Strube C. Dirofilaria spp. and Angiostrongylus vasorum: Current Risk of Spreading in Central and Northern Europe. Pathogens 2021; 10:1268. [PMID: 34684217 PMCID: PMC8537668 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past few decades, the relevance of Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens, causing cardiopulmonary and subcutaneous dirofilariosis in dogs and cats, and of Angiostrongylus vasorum, causing canine angiostrongylosis, has steadily increased in Central and Northern Europe. In this review, a summary of published articles and additional reports dealing with imported or autochthonous cases of these parasites is provided for Central (Austria, Czechia, Germany, Hungary, Luxemburg, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland) and Northern (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) Europe. Research efforts focusing on Dirofilaria spp. and A. vasorum have varied by country, and cross-border studies are few. The housing conditions of dogs, pet movements, the spread of competent vectors, and climate change are important factors in the spread of these nematodes. Dogs kept outside overnight are a major factor for the establishment of Dirofilaria spp. However, the establishment of invasive, diurnal, synanthropic, competent mosquito vectors such as Aedes albopictus may also influence the establishment of Dirofilaria spp. The drivers of the spread of A. vasorum remain not fully understood, but it seems to be influenced by habitats shared with wild canids, dog relocation, and possibly climatic changes; its pattern of spreading appears to be similar in different countries. Both Dirofilaria spp. and A. vasorum merit further monitoring and research focus in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Peter Fuehrer
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (M.S.U.); (K.B.-L.)
| | - Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
| | - Maria Sophia Unterköfler
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (M.S.U.); (K.B.-L.)
| | - Anna Bajer
- Department of Eco-Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096 Warsaw, Poland; (A.B.); (D.D.-S.)
| | - Karin Bakran-Lebl
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (M.S.U.); (K.B.-L.)
| | - Dorota Dwużnik-Szarek
- Department of Eco-Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096 Warsaw, Poland; (A.B.); (D.D.-S.)
| | - Róbert Farkas
- Department of Parasitology and Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1078 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Giulio Grandi
- Section for Parasitology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden;
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), 756 51 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mike Heddergott
- Department of Zoology, Musée National d’Historire Naturelle, 25, Rue Münster, 2160 Luxembourg, Luxembourg;
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark;
| | - Tanja Knific
- Institute of Food Safety, Feed and Environment, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Michael Leschnik
- Clinical Unit of Internal Medicine Small Animals, Department/Universitätsklinik für Kleintiere und Pferde, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Martina Miterpáková
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia;
| | - David Modrý
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 37005 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic;
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources/CINeZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 16500 Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 61137 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Heidi Huus Petersen
- Centre for Diagnostic, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark;
| | - Karl Skírnisson
- Institute for Experimental Pathology at Keldur, University of Iceland, Keldnavegur 3, 112 Reykjavik, Iceland;
| | - Aleksandra Vergles Rataj
- Institute of Microbiology and Parasitology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland;
| | - Christina Strube
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
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Morgan ER, Modry D, Paredes-Esquivel C, Foronda P, Traversa D. Angiostrongylosis in Animals and Humans in Europe. Pathogens 2021; 10:1236. [PMID: 34684185 PMCID: PMC8538298 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Lungworms in the genus Angiostrongylus cause disease in animals and humans. The spread of Angiostrongylus vasorum within Europe and the recent establishment of Angiostrongylus cantonensis increase the relevance of these species to veterinary and medical practitioners, and to researchers in parasitology, epidemiology, veterinary science and ecology. This review introduces the key members of the genus present in Europe and their impacts on health, and updates the current epidemiological situation. Expansion of A. vasorum from localized pockets to wide distribution across the continent has been confirmed by a rising prevalence in foxes and increasing reports of infection and disease in dogs, while the list of carnivore and mustelid definitive hosts continues to grow. The tropically distributed rat lungworm A. cantonensis, meanwhile, has been recorded on islands south of Europe, previously the Canary Islands, and now also the Balearic Islands, although so far with limited evidence of zoonotic disease. Other members of the genus, namely, A. chabaudi, A. daskalovi and A. dujardini, are native to Europe and mainly infect wildlife, with unknown consequences for populations, although spill-over can occur into domestic animals and those in zoological collections. The epidemiology of angiostrongylosis is complex, and further research is needed on parasite maintenance in sylvatic hosts, and on the roles of ecology, behaviour and genetics in disease emergence. Improved surveillance in animals and humans is also required to support risk assessments and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R. Morgan
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - David Modry
- Biology Center, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 37005 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic;
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources/CINeZ, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 16500 Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 61137 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Claudia Paredes-Esquivel
- Applied Zoology and Animal Conservation Group, University of the Balearic Islands, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Spain;
| | - Pilar Foronda
- University Institute of Tropical Diseases and Public Health, University La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain;
| | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
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Avcioglu H, Guven E, Balkaya I, Kirman R, Akyuz M, Mebarek Bia M, Gulbeyen H, Yaya S. The situation of echinococcosis in stray dogs in Turkey: the first finding of Echinococcus multilocularis and Echinococcus ortleppi. Parasitology 2021; 148:1092-1098. [PMID: 34002689 PMCID: PMC11010043 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021000755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Echinococcosis, caused by larval stage of the genus Echinococcus, is one of the most important zoonotic diseases worldwide. The purpose of this study was to determine the presence and prevalence of Echinococcus species in stray dogs of Erzurum, a highly endemic region for cystic echinococcosis (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE) in Turkey. The study samples consisted of 446 stray dog faecal specimens collected from an animal shelter in Erzurum, Turkey, between October 2015 and February 2016. The faecal samples were collected from individual dogs for the isolation of taeniid eggs using the sequential sieving and flotation method (SSFM). Molecular analyses and sequencing revealed the prevalence of Echinococcus spp. as 14.13% (63/446) in faecal samples. The stray dogs harboured five different Echinococcus spp.: E. granulosus s.s. (G1/G3) (n = 41), E. equinus (G4) (n = 3), E. ortleppi (G5) (n = 1), E. canadensis (G6/G7) (n = 3) and E. multilocularis (n = 16). E. granulosus s.s. was the most abundant species. Surprisingly, the occurrence of E. multilocularis in dogs was revealed for the first time in Turkey. E. ortleppi was also reported for the first time in Turkey. These findings highlight a significant public health risk for human AE and CE, presenting useful baseline data on Echinococcus spp. infection in dogs for designing control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Avcioglu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum25240, Turkey
| | - Esin Guven
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum25240, Turkey
| | - Ibrahim Balkaya
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum25240, Turkey
| | - Ridvan Kirman
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum25240, Turkey
| | - Muzaffer Akyuz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum25240, Turkey
| | - Mohammed Mebarek Bia
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum25240, Turkey
- Department of Parasitology, Parasitology Research Center and Parasite Resource Bank, Chungbuk National University, School of Medicine, Cheongju28644, Korea
| | - Hatice Gulbeyen
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum25240, Turkey
| | - Sali Yaya
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Atatürk University, Erzurum25240, Turkey
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Erol U, Sarimehmetoglu O, Utuk AE. Intestinal system helminths of red foxes and molecular characterization Taeniid cestodes. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:2847-2854. [PMID: 34232387 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07227-3] [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: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) are the most prevalent wild carnivores in the world and definitive hosts of many pathogenic parasites for humans and farm animals. These animals travel great distances in search of prey and nests, and cause contamination of large geographic areas with parasites. For this reason, monitoring the parasitic pathogens of red foxes is particularly important in terms of public and animal health. The goal of this study was to determine the intestinal helminths and molecular characterization of Taenia species of red foxes in Turkey. In this study, 103 red fox intestines obtained from 29 provinces of Turkey were examined with sedimentation and counting technique. Collected helminths were diagnosed according to their morphologic features. Additionally, further molecular analysis (PCR and DNA sequencing) was performed for the identification of Taeniid cestodes. At the end of the study, it was determined that 87.37% (90/103) of red foxes were infected with at least one helminth species. Detected helminths and their prevalence's were Mesocestoides sp. (56.31%), Joyeuxiella echinorhynchoides (33%), Taenia polyacantha (15.53%), Dipylidium caninum (0.97%), Pterygodermatites affinis (51.45%), Toxascaris leonina (45.63%), Uncinaria stenocephala (33%), Oxynema numicidum (20.38%), Toxocara canis (14.56%), Ancylostoma caninum (12.62%), and Trichuris vulpis (1.94%), respectively. Additionally, Pachysentis sp. (37.69%), Centrorhynchus sp. (0.97%) (Acantocephala), and nymphs of Linguatula serrata (20.38%) (Arthropoda) were also detected in the same intestinal samples. This is the most comprehensive study that has been conducted on the intestinal helminthes of red foxes in Turkey. To the best of our knowledge, molecular characterization of T. polyacantha and the detection of O. numicidum, A. caninum, Pachysentis sp., and Centrorhynchus sp. are the first reports in red foxes in Turkey. Our study revealed that red foxes are important hosts for many intestinal helminth species and are link between domestic and sylvatic cycles of these parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ufuk Erol
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sivas Cumhuriyet, 58140, Sivas, Turkey.
| | - Oguz Sarimehmetoglu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ankara, 06110, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Armagan Erdem Utuk
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Ceyhan Veterinary Medicine, University of Cukurova, 01330, Adana, Turkey
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48
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Colonization of Warsaw by the red fox Vulpes vulpes in the years 1976-2019. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13931. [PMID: 34230499 PMCID: PMC8260808 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92844-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The red fox is one of the most adaptable carnivores inhabiting cities. The aim of our study was to describe the process of Warsaw colonization by the red fox. We focused on: (1) the fox distribution in Warsaw on the basis of presence-absence data (2005-2012) over a grid of 1 × 1 km2, (2) the process of settlement in 29 green areas (study periods 1976-1978, 2004-2012, and 2016-2019) in relation to habitat type, and (3) temporal and spatial patterns of the red fox incidents (1998-2015) reported by Warsaw citizens. We found out that: (1) the red fox penetrated the whole city (i.e. its presence was confirmed in all squares of the grid), (2) 21% of the green areas were colonized in 1976-1978 but 93% in 2016-2019. Forests and riparian habitats were occupied more frequently than parks and cemeteries in 1976-1978 with no difference in the further years; (3) the probability of the fox incidents increased over years, was higher in June-October, on working days, and around noon, and with the share of discontinuous urban fabric in the buffers around incident locations. Nevertheless, the incidents only partially reflect population abundance trends and activity patterns of the species, so should be treated cautiously.
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Borhani M, Fathi S, Darabi E, Jalousian F, Simsek S, Ahmed H, Kesik HK, Hosseini SH, Romig T, Harandi MF, Mobedi I. Echinococcoses in Iran, Turkey, and Pakistan: Old Diseases in the New Millennium. Clin Microbiol Rev 2021; 34:e0029020. [PMID: 34076492 PMCID: PMC8262809 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00290-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinococcosis is considered a cosmopolitan zoonosis caused by different species of small taeniid tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus and is regarded as a neglected zoonosis. Cystic and alveolar echinococcoses are endemic diseases of Tibetan, Pamir, and Iranian plateaus. All of the countries within the Iranian plateau are affected by echinococcosis. Pakistan, Turkey, and Iran are the three most populous countries of the region, in which echinococcosis is highly endemic. The three neighboring countries share strong cultural and socioeconomic ties. The present study aimed to provide a broad review of the status of cystic and alveolar echinococcosis, summarizing the current knowledge about geographical distribution, molecular epidemiology, and transmission dynamics of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato and Echinococcus multilocularis in this region. Additionally, we aimed to understand disease burden and risk factors as basic requirements for establishing a surveillance system and planning prevention and control programs. A considerable body of information is available on different aspects of echinococcosis in this region; however, several information and research gaps need to be filled before planning control programs. None of the countries in the region have an elaborate echinococcosis control program. Effective control programs require multi/intersectoral coordination within a One Health approach with a long-term political and administrative commitment and enhanced international collaboration among the three countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Borhani
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Saeid Fathi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Enayat Darabi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Jalousian
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sami Simsek
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Firat, Elazig, Turkey
| | - Haroon Ahmed
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Harun Kaya Kesik
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bingol, Bingol, Turkey
| | - Seyed Hossein Hosseini
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Thomas Romig
- Parasitology Unit, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Majid Fasihi Harandi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Iraj Mobedi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Tieri EE, Saletti MA, D'Angelo AR, Parisciani G, Pelini S, Cocco A, Di Teodoro G, Di Censo E, D'Alterio N, Latrofa MS, Otranto D, Pascucci I. Angiostrongylus vasorum in foxes ( Vulpes vulpes) and wolves ( Canis lupus italicus) from Abruzzo region, Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2021; 15:184-194. [PMID: 34136344 PMCID: PMC8182381 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In Europe wildlife animals such as the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) are considered the main reservoir for Angiostrongylus vasorum as well as a potential threat for domestic dog infection. Though this parasite is endemic in fox populations, data on A. vasorum infection in wolves (Canis lupus italicus) are still scant, having only recently been described in Northwestern Spain, in Italy, in Croatia and in Slovakia. Based on the rising number of cases of canine lungworm infection in Central Italy (Abruzzo region), the aim of the present study was to investigate the infection by A. vasorum in fox and wolf populations sharing the same geographical area of dogs. From October 2008 to November 2019, A. vasorum specimens were collected, through routine post-mortem examination, from 56 carcasses (44 foxes and 12 wolves). Adult parasites were searched for in the right side of the heart and in pulmonary artery of all carcasses. First stage of larvae (L1) was searched in faeces using the Baermann technique and in lungs by tissue impressions. Overall, 230 adult specimens were collected and identified on a morphological basis. To confirm the morphological identification, 4 adult specimens (n = 3 from fox, n = 1 from wolf) were molecularly identified as A. vasorum by amplification of partial fragment of nuclear 18S rRNA (~1700 bp) genes. The anatomo-pathological and parasitological examinations indicated the presence of A. vasorum in 33 foxes (75%) and in 8 wolves (66.7%). The level of prevalence of infested wolves was higher than the previous one reported in other European countries. Interestingly, the prevalence of infection in foxes herein recorded was higher than that described in dogs (8.9%) living in the same geographical area. This result may confirm the hypothesis that the spread of canine angiostrongylosis is linked to fox populations infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elga Ersilia Tieri
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
- Corresponding author.
| | - Maria Antonietta Saletti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Anna Rita D'Angelo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Gabriella Parisciani
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Sandro Pelini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Antonio Cocco
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Teodoro
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Erica Di Censo
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale di Pescara, via Renato Paolini 47, 65124, Pescara, Italy
| | - Nicola D'Alterio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Maria Stefania Latrofa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Strada Provinciale per Casamassina Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, BA), Italy
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Strada Provinciale per Casamassina Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, BA), Italy
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, District 2, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Ilaria Pascucci
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
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