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Wilson TK, Zishiri OT, El Zowalaty ME. Molecular detection of multidrug and methicillin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus isolated from wild pigeons ( Columba livia) in South Africa. One Health 2024; 18:100671. [PMID: 38737528 PMCID: PMC11082500 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100671] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is an important human and veterinary pathogen. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance among S. aureus isolated from samples obtained from free-flying wild pigeons and houseflies from different locations surrounding a local hospital in the Greater Durban area in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. Environmental fecal samples were obtained from wild pigeons that inhabits the grounds of a local public hospital located on the South Beach area, Durban, South Africa. Housefly samples were collected from three different locations (Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve, Montclair/Clairwood, and Glenwood/Berea) in the greater Durban area, all within a close proximity to the hospital. Following enrichment, identification, and antimicrobial resistance profiling, S. aureus isolates were subjected to DNA extraction using the boiling method. It was found that 57 out of 252 samples (22.62%) were positive for S. aureus. The Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method of antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed and revealed that antibiotic resistance rates to penicillin and rifampicin were the most common, with both returning 48 (84.2%) out of the 57 S. aureus isolates being resistant to penicillin and rifampicin. Antibiotic resistance rates to clindamycin, linezolid, erythromycin, tetracycline, cefoxitin, and ciprofloxacin were 82.5%, 78.9%, 73.7%, 63.2%, 33.3%, and 15.8% respectively. Antibiotic resistance genes were detected using primer-specific PCR and it was found that the prevalence rates of tetM, aac(6')-aph(2″), mecA, tetK, ermc, and blaZ genes were 66.7%, 40.4%, 40.4%, 38.6%, 24.6%, and 3.51% respectively. Statistical analysis revealed significant (p < 0.05) relationships between the tetM, aac(6')-aph(2″), and ermC genes and all parameters tested. A significant correlation between the aac(6')-aph(2″) gene and the tetM (0.506) and ermC (-0.386) genes was identified. It was found that 23 (40.3%) S. aureus isolates were mecA positive, of which 10 (52.6%) out of 19 cefoxitin-resistant isolates were mecA positive and 13 (35.1%) out of 37 cefoxitin-sensitive isolates were mecA positive. The results of the present study demonstrated the detection of methicillin and multidrug resistant S. aureus isolated from samples obtained from wild pigeons and houseflies in the surroundings of a local public hospital in the Greater Durban area in South Africa. The findings of the study may account for the emergence of multidrug-resistant staphylococcal infections. The findings highlight the significant role of wild pigeons and houseflies in the spread of drug-resistant pathogenic S. aureus including MRSA. The conclusions of the present study highlight the improtant role of wildlife and the environment as interconnected contributors of One Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor K. Wilson
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Oliver T. Zishiri
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Mohamed E. El Zowalaty
- Veterinary Medicine and Food Security Research Group, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi Women's Campus, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi 41012, United Arab Emirates
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Herrmann B, Aaziz R, Kaden R, Riedel HM, Spörndly-Nees E, Sandelin LL, Laroucau K. SNP-based high-resolution typing of Chlamydia psittaci from humans and wild birds in Sweden: circulation of the Mat116 genotype reveals the transmission mode to humans. Microbes Infect 2024; 26:105251. [PMID: 37952689 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105251] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of Chlamydia psittaci respiratory tract infections in humans has increased in Sweden in recent years. This study aimed to identify the transmission route by genotyping C. psittaci from infected humans and birds. 42 human C. psittaci samples and 5 samples from C. psittaci-infected birds were collected. Genotyping was performed using ompA sequencing, Multi-locus sequence typing, and/or SNP-based high-resolution melting-PCR. Epidemiological data was also collected, and a phylogenetic analysis was conducted. Analysis of ompA provided limited resolution, while the SNP-based PCR analysis successfully detected the Mat116 genotype in 3/5 passerine birds and in 26/29 human cases, indicating a high prevalence of this genotype in the human population. These cases were associated with contact with wild birds, mainly through bird feeding during winter or other outdoor exposure. Human cases caused by other genotypes (psittacine and pigeon) were less common and were linked to exposure to caged birds or pigeons. The SNP-genotype Mat116 is rare, but predominated in this study. The use of SNP-based PCR provided a better understanding of the C. psittaci transmission from birds to humans compared to ompA analysis. In Sweden, human psittacosis appears mainly to be transmitted from garden birds during bird feeding in the winter season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Herrmann
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Uppsala University Hospital, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Microbiology, Uppsala University, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Rachid Aaziz
- Anses, Laboratory for Animal Health, Bacterial Zoonosis Unit, Paris-Est University, F-94706 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Rene Kaden
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Uppsala University Hospital, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; Science for Life Laboratory, Clinical Genomics Uppsala, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hilde M Riedel
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Uppsala University Hospital, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Microbiology, Uppsala University, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ellinor Spörndly-Nees
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lisa Labbé Sandelin
- Department of Communicable Diseases and Disease Control, Region Kalmar County, SE- 391 26 Kalmar, Sweden; Department of Biology and Environmental Science, Linnaeus University, SE-391 82 Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Karine Laroucau
- Anses, Laboratory for Animal Health, Bacterial Zoonosis Unit, Paris-Est University, F-94706 Maisons-Alfort, France
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Spörndly-Nees E, Uhlhorn H, Jinnerot T, Neimanis A. Chlamydia psittaci in garden birds in Sweden. One Health 2023; 16:100542. [PMID: 37363230 PMCID: PMC10288092 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100542] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased numbers of human infections with Chlamydia psittaci have been associated with bird feeding activities in southern Sweden. Information on occurrence and genotype of C. psittaci in garden birds in Sweden is required to corroborate this finding but data are limited. Additionally, pathogenicity of C. psittaci for garden birds is poorly understood. In this study, C. psittaci infection was investigated in 275 garden birds representing 22 species submitted for wildlife disease surveillance between 2009 and 2019. PCR was used to detect C. psittaci DNA in liver and lung. Positive samples were genotyped, additional PCR was performed on feces, and tissues were examined microscopically. C. psittaci was found in six (2.2 %) birds; three great tits (Parus major), two feral (Columba livia) and one wood pigeon (Columba palumbus). Two great tits and the wood pigeon had inflammatory lesions associated with C. psittaci. In the great tits and wood pigeon, C. psittaci genotype A, the cause of most human cases, was detected. Genotype B, considered endemic in pigeons, was detected in the feral pigeons. Low incidence of C. psittaci in dead Swedish garden birds was similar to studies on apparently healthy Swedish birds. Pathological findings were consistent with C. psittaci being fatal in half of the positive birds, which also had higher bacterial loads in feces. This highlights the risk for human infection via infected garden birds, especially regarding great tits and pigeons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellinor Spörndly-Nees
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Henrik Uhlhorn
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tomas Jinnerot
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Aleksija Neimanis
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
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Three Cases of Atypical Pneumonia with Chlamydia psittaci: The Role of Laboratory Vigilance in the Diagnosis of Psittacosis. Pathogens 2022; 12:pathogens12010065. [PMID: 36678414 PMCID: PMC9861199 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010065] [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: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci is an established zoonotic agent causing respiratory disease in humans. An infection often remains asymptomatic but can also result in flu-like illness, pneumonia or even multi-organ failure. This paper describes three patients, hospitalised at AZ Sint-Lucas Hospital, with atypical pneumonia who were diagnosed with C. psittaci after an in-depth anamnesis and laboratory investigation in the midst of the COVID pandemic. All three infections were confirmed with PCR and serology, whereas viable bacteria were only present for one patient. Genotyping revealed the presence of genotype B for patient 1 and 2 whereas ompA genotyping was unsuccessful for patient 3. This case report demonstrates the importance of a thorough patient history as close contact with birds is one of the main risk factors to contract the pathogen. Once exposure to birds has been confirmed, a diagnosis by a combination of PCR and serology is essential in order to initiate a treatment with the proper antibiotics. As psittacosis is still an underestimated and underdiagnosed disease, communication between laboratory, clinicians and bird fanciers is encouraged.
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Muroni G, Pinna L, Serra E, Chisu V, Mandas D, Coccollone A, Liciardi M, Masala G. A Chlamydia psittaci Outbreak in Psittacine Birds in Sardinia, Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14204. [PMID: 36361084 PMCID: PMC9658638 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci is an intracellular bacterium belonging to the Chlamydiaceae family. It is the ethiologic agent of psittacosis, an occupational zoonotic disease that mainly concerns people who work in close contact with birds that represent the main infection route for human transmission. In Italy, information about this disease is lacking. This study is the first case of avian chlamydiosis reported from a pet shop in Sardinia, Italy. Chlamydia psittaci detected in psittacine birds by molecular analysis, direct immunofluorescence test together with anatomo-pathological observed lesions, highlighted the importance of focusing the attention over this underestimated zoonosis in a "One Health" prospective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Muroni
- Zoonotic Pathology and OIEReference Laboratory for Echinococcosis, National Reference Center for Echinococcosis (CeNRE), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, Via Duca degli Abruzzi n. 8, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Luigia Pinna
- S.C. Complex Territorial Diagnostic Structure of Cagliari, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 09067 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elisa Serra
- Zoonotic Pathology and OIEReference Laboratory for Echinococcosis, National Reference Center for Echinococcosis (CeNRE), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, Via Duca degli Abruzzi n. 8, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Valentina Chisu
- Zoonotic Pathology and OIEReference Laboratory for Echinococcosis, National Reference Center for Echinococcosis (CeNRE), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, Via Duca degli Abruzzi n. 8, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Daniela Mandas
- S.C. Complex Territorial Diagnostic Structure of Cagliari, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 09067 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Annamaria Coccollone
- S.C. Complex Territorial Diagnostic Structure of Cagliari, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 09067 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Manuel Liciardi
- S.C. Complex Territorial Diagnostic Structure of Cagliari, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 09067 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Masala
- Zoonotic Pathology and OIEReference Laboratory for Echinococcosis, National Reference Center for Echinococcosis (CeNRE), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, Via Duca degli Abruzzi n. 8, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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Kowalczyk K, Wójcik-Fatla A. Chlamydia psittaci in Faecal Samples of Feral Pigeons (Columba livia forma urbana) in Urban Areas of Lublin city, Poland. Curr Microbiol 2022; 79:367. [PMID: 36253653 PMCID: PMC9576673 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-022-03072-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pigeons are a typical host and natural reservoir of Chlamydia psittaci, the etiological agent of avian chlamydiosis, considered as a neglected zoonotic diseases. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of C. psittaci in faecal samples of feral pigeons (Columba livia forma urbana) as a potential source of infection related to the presence of synanthropic birds in urban areas. A total of 143 samples of dry and fresh faeces of feral pigeons, were collected in the city of Lublin (Poland), from April to September 2021. Molecular detection of C. psittaci was performed by nested-PCR and real-time PCR, confirmed by sequencing. Among the collected samples, 5 positive results were obtained in nested-PCR (3.5%), while in real-time PCR, the number of positive samples increased to 11 (7.7%). The positive samples showed 100% identity to the C. psittaci strain AMK (CP047319.1). C. psittaci was found in 7 out of 111 (6.3%) faecal samples collected in public places, and in 4 out of 32 (12.5%) samples from the nesting site (4.9% and 2.8% among a total of 143 samples, respectively). The infection was detected in both dry and fresh faeces (9.1% and 4.5%, respectively). The highest number of positive results was obtained in June—5 (3.5%). Feral pigeons occurring in urban areas are a natural reservoir of C. psittaci posing a potential risk of zoonotic infections. However, further studies on exposure to contaminated pigeon faeces in terms of occupational and non-occupational risk of chlamydiosis are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kowalczyk
- Department of Health Biohazards and Parasitology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Angelina Wójcik-Fatla
- Department of Health Biohazards and Parasitology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090, Lublin, Poland.
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Wu HH, Feng LF, Fang SY. Application of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in the diagnosis of severe pneumonia caused by Chlamydia psittaci. BMC Pulm Med 2021; 21:300. [PMID: 34556069 PMCID: PMC8461849 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-021-01673-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Psittacosis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by the transmission of the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci (C. psittaci) from birds to humans. Infections in humans mainly present as community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). However, most cases are treated without diagnostic testing, and the importance of Chlamydia psittaci infection as a cause of CAP is therefore unclear. Diagnostic tools, including culture, serologic test, and PCR-based methods, are available but prone to false negative results. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) has been increasingly used in the diagnosis of infectious diseases, particularly when conventional diagnostic approaches have limitation. Detection of nucleic acid sequence of C. psittaci in respiratory tract samples by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) is effective for early diagnosis of severe C. psittaci pneumonia. Timely treatment based on tetracycline can reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics and improve prognosis of patients with severe C. psittaci pneumonia. Methods Clinical data of thirteen patients with severe C. psittaci pneumonia diagnosed by mNGS were collected. Clinical manifestations, treatment and prognosis of patients were summarized. Results The typical symptoms of pneumonia caused by C. psittaci include fever, headache, myalgia, cough, and dyspnea. In the current study, all patients met the criteria for severe C. psittaci pneumonia and received mechanical ventilation, including noninvasive mechanical ventilation (five/thirteen) and invasive mechanical ventilation (eight/thirteen). The findings showed that patients with C. psittaci pneumonia presented with normal or slightly increased leucocytes and procalcitonin, and high C-reactive protein levels. Computed tomography manifestations included consolidation of lung parenchyma, with air bronchogram and pleural effusion in some patients. mNGS analysis results were obtained within 48–72 h. Eleven patients fully recovered after targeted treatment, however, two patients died from secondary multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. Conclusions The findings of the current study show that mNGS is effective in diagnosis of C. psittaci pneumonia, and has significant diagnosis value in patients with severe infection. Patients responds well to the timely use of appropriate antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Huan Wu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Dongyang Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang, 322100, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Lan-Fang Feng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Dongyang Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang, 322100, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Shuang-Yan Fang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Dongyang Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang, 322100, Zhejiang Province, China
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Health Status and Stress in Different Categories of Racing Pigeons. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092686. [PMID: 34573652 PMCID: PMC8470826 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Corticosterone is the most important “stress” hormone in birds. Stress response is influenced by different factors, such as phylogeny, feed supply, age, body condition, health status, climate, predators. Pigeon races over long distances, 500 km or more, can lead to the “exploitation” of animals if not strictly regulated and observed, jeopardizing their welfare status. Animals should be in good health and body condition, and health monitoring must be implemented. In stressful situations such as races, the possibility of infection increases. Clinically asymptomatic infections can flare up later in the breeding season and can cause high offspring mortality. For example, infections with circoviruses are particularly important because of their ability to weaken the immune system. The purpose of this work is to identify the critical stress points during the active training season of racing pigeons for the improvement of their condition and the preservation of their welfare during races. The aim of our study was to determine the serum corticosterone levels in different categories of racing pigeons exposed to severe stress factors. At the time of racing, some parameters of stress, including environmental factors, or the presence of infectious diseases or parasites, were recorded. It was found that participation in the race significantly increased serum corticosterone levels and remained high even one month after the race. Therefore, training and races should be properly managed and planned. Abstract The influence of different stress parameters in racing pigeon flocks, such as the presence of diseases and environmental conditions at the time of the races, were described. A total of 96 racing pigeons from 4 pigeon flocks were examined, and health monitoring was carried out. No helminth eggs and coccidia were found. Trichomonas sp. was confirmed in subclinical form. Paramyxoviruses and avian influenza viruses were not confirmed, but circovirus infections were confirmed in all flocks. Chlamydia psittaci was confirmed in one flock. Blood samples were collected, and HI antibody titers against paramyxoviruses before and 25 days after vaccination were determined. To improve the conditions during racing and the welfare of the pigeons, critical points were studied with regard to stress factors during the active training season. Serum corticosterone levels were measured in the blood serum of four different categories of pigeons from each flock. Corticosterone levels were almost twice as high in pigeons from the category that were active throughout the racing season, including medium- and long-distance racing, compared to the other three categories that were not racing actively. Within five hours of the finish of a race, the average serum corticosterone level was 59.4 nmol/L in the most physically active category. The average serum corticosterone level in this category remained at 37.5 nmol/L one month after the last race.
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A Review of Chlamydial Infections in Wild Birds. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10080948. [PMID: 34451412 PMCID: PMC8398480 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10080948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The Chlamydia are a globally distributed genus of bacteria that can infect and cause disease in a range of hosts. Birds are the primary host for multiple chlamydial species. The most well-known of these is Chlamydia psittaci, a zoonotic bacterium that has been identified in a range of wild and domesticated birds. Wild birds are often proposed as a reservoir of Chlamydia psittaci and potentially other chlamydial species. The aim of this review is to present the current knowledge of chlamydial infections in wild avian populations. We focus on C. psittaci but also consider other Chlamydiaceae and Chlamydia-related bacteria that have been identified in wild birds. We summarise the diversity, host range, and clinical signs of infection in wild birds and consider the potential implications of these infections for zoonotic transmission and avian conservation. Chlamydial bacteria have been found in more than 70 species of wild birds, with the greatest chlamydial diversity identified in Europe. The Corvidae and Accipitridae families are emerging as significant chlamydial hosts, in addition to established wild hosts such as the Columbidae. Clarifying the effects of these bacteria on avian host fitness and the zoonotic potential of emerging Chlamydiales will help us to understand the implications of these infections for avian and human health.
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Chen WT, Teng CA, Shih CH, Huang WH, Jiang YF, Chang HW, Jeng CR, Lai YH, Guo JC, Wang PJ, Cheng CH, Chang YC. Investigation of Lethal Concurrent Outbreak of Chlamydiosis and Pigeon Circovirus in a Zoo. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061654. [PMID: 34199449 PMCID: PMC8227979 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The present study aimed to investigate a lethal outbreak of chlamydiosis and pigeon circovirus (PiCV) infection in a zoo. A retrospective follow-up indicates that the lethal outbreak might be an independent episode. The high prevalence of PiCV positivity in the aviaries suggests that PiCV infection might play a key role in augmenting the lethality of chlamydiosis in birds. Persistently monitoring both pathogens and identifying potential PiCV carriers or transmitters might also help prevent lethal disease outbreaks. Abstract During the spring, an outbreak of sudden death involving 58 birds occurred in a zoo. Histopathological examinations revealed variable numbers of intracytoplasmic basophilic microorganisms in the macrophages, hepatocytes, and renal epithelium of most birds, along with occasional botryoid intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies within histiocytes in the bursa of Fabricius. Based on the results of histopathological examinations, immunohistochemical staining, transmission electron microscopy, and polymerase chain reactions, genotype B Chlamydia psittaci infection concurrent with pigeon circovirus (PiCV) was diagnosed. A retrospective survey, including two years before the outbreak and the outbreak year, of C. psittaci and PiCV infections of dead birds in the aviaries, revealed that the outbreak was an independent episode. The findings of this study indicate that concurrent infection with C. psittaci and PiCV might lead to lethal outbreaks of chlamydiosis, particularly Streptopelia orientalis. In addition, persistently monitoring both pathogens and identifying potential PiCV carriers or transmitters might also help prevent lethal disease outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Tao Chen
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan; (W.-T.C.); (C.-A.T.); (C.-H.S.); (W.-H.H.); (Y.-F.J.); (H.-W.C.); (C.-R.J.)
| | - Chin-Ann Teng
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan; (W.-T.C.); (C.-A.T.); (C.-H.S.); (W.-H.H.); (Y.-F.J.); (H.-W.C.); (C.-R.J.)
| | - Cheng-Hsin Shih
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan; (W.-T.C.); (C.-A.T.); (C.-H.S.); (W.-H.H.); (Y.-F.J.); (H.-W.C.); (C.-R.J.)
| | - Wei-Hsiang Huang
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan; (W.-T.C.); (C.-A.T.); (C.-H.S.); (W.-H.H.); (Y.-F.J.); (H.-W.C.); (C.-R.J.)
| | - Yi-Fan Jiang
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan; (W.-T.C.); (C.-A.T.); (C.-H.S.); (W.-H.H.); (Y.-F.J.); (H.-W.C.); (C.-R.J.)
| | - Hui-Wen Chang
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan; (W.-T.C.); (C.-A.T.); (C.-H.S.); (W.-H.H.); (Y.-F.J.); (H.-W.C.); (C.-R.J.)
| | - Chian-Ren Jeng
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan; (W.-T.C.); (C.-A.T.); (C.-H.S.); (W.-H.H.); (Y.-F.J.); (H.-W.C.); (C.-R.J.)
| | - Yen-Hsueh Lai
- Taipei Zoo, Taipei 116016, Taiwan; (Y.-H.L.); (J.-C.G.); (P.-J.W.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Jun-Cheng Guo
- Taipei Zoo, Taipei 116016, Taiwan; (Y.-H.L.); (J.-C.G.); (P.-J.W.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Pao-Jung Wang
- Taipei Zoo, Taipei 116016, Taiwan; (Y.-H.L.); (J.-C.G.); (P.-J.W.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Chiu-Hung Cheng
- Taipei Zoo, Taipei 116016, Taiwan; (Y.-H.L.); (J.-C.G.); (P.-J.W.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Yen-Chen Chang
- Graduate Institute of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan; (W.-T.C.); (C.-A.T.); (C.-H.S.); (W.-H.H.); (Y.-F.J.); (H.-W.C.); (C.-R.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-33663868
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Ul-Rahman A, Ishaq HM, Raza MA, Shabbir MZ. Zoonotic potential of Newcastle disease virus: Old and novel perspectives related to public health. Rev Med Virol 2021; 32:e2246. [PMID: 33971048 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Newcastle disease virus (NDV) has a worldwide distribution, causing lethal infection in a wide range of avian species. Affected birds develop respiratory, digestive and neurologic symptoms with profound immunosuppression. Mild systemic Newcastle disease (ND) infection restricted to the respiratory and neurological systems can be observed in humans and other non-avian hosts. Evidence of ND infection and its genome-based detection have been reported in Bovidae (cattle and sheep), Mustelidae (mink), Cercetidae (hamster), Muridae (mice), Leporidae (rabbit), Camelidae (camel), Suidae (pig), Cercophithecidae (monkeys) and Hominidae (humans). Owing to frequent ND outbreaks in poultry workers, individuals engaged in the veterinary field, including poultry production or evisceration and vaccine production units have constantly been at a much higher risk than the general population. A lethal form of infection has been described in immunocompromised humans and non-avian species including mink, pig and cattle demonstrating the capability of NDV to cross species barriers. Therefore, contact with infectious material and/or affected birds can pose a risk of zoonosis and raise public health concerns. The broad and expanding host range of NDV and its maintenance within non-avian species hampers disease control, particularly in disease-endemic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Ul-Rahman
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Ishaq
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asif Raza
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Zubair Shabbir
- Quality Operations Laboratory, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
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12
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Angen Ø, Johannesen TB, Petersen RF, Uldum SA, Schnee C. Development of a species-specific real-time PCR test for Chlamydia psittaci and its employment in the investigation of zoonotic transmission from racing pigeons in Denmark. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2021; 100:115341. [PMID: 33684659 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2021.115341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Species-specific detection of Chlamydia psittaci is challenging and all published PCR tests have so far shown deficiencies in specificity or sensitivity. The present investigation reports on the development of a species-specific real-time PCR assay for C. psittaci. The test is based on an 84 bp indel in a gene of unknown function that is unique to C. psittaci. The Cps-indel84-PCR assay was validated on a wide range of chlamydial and other bacterial strains as well as on clinical samples from animals and humans in two different diagnostic laboratories in Germany and Denmark. Furthermore, the test was employed for investigating samples from racing pigeon flocks in Denmark. The evaluation showed that the Cps-indel84-PCR assay has excellent test characteristics and is a highly reliable method for identifying C. psittaci in clinical samples both from humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Øystein Angen
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Thor Bech Johannesen
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Randi Føns Petersen
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Anker Uldum
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christiane Schnee
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Institute for Molecular Pathogenesis, Jena, Germany
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Stalder S, Marti H, Borel N, Mattmann P, Vogler B, Wolfrum N, Albini S. Detection of Chlamydiaceae in Swiss wild birds sampled at a bird rehabilitation centre. Vet Rec Open 2020; 7:e000437. [PMID: 33224510 PMCID: PMC7662422 DOI: 10.1136/vetreco-2020-000437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Annually, 800–1500 wild birds are admitted to the rehabilitation centre of the Swiss Ornithological Institute, Sempach, Lucerne, Switzerland. The workers of the centre come in close contact with the avian patients and might therefore be exposed to zoonotic agents shed by these birds, such as Chlamydia psittaci. Methods In the present study, 91 choanal, 91 cloacal and 267 faecal swabs from 339 wild birds of 42 species were investigated using a stepwise diagnostic approach. Results Chlamydiaceae were detected in 0.9 per cent (0.3–2.6 per cent) of birds (n=3), all of them members of the Columbidae family. The Chlamydiaceae species of two of these birds (one Eurasian collared dove, one fancy pigeon) were identified as C psittaci types B and E by PCR and outer membrane protein A genotyping. Conclusion The findings of the current study suggest that zoonotic transmission of Chlamydiaceae is very unlikely for songbird and waterfowl species tested herein, while pigeons might pose a risk to workers at rehabilitation centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Stalder
- National Reference Centre for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hanna Marti
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Borel
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Prisca Mattmann
- Swiss Ornithological Institute, Sempach, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Vogler
- National Reference Centre for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Wolfrum
- National Reference Centre for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Albini
- National Reference Centre for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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14
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Shivambu TC, Shivambu N, Downs CT. Population estimates of non-native rose-ringed parakeets Psittacula krameri (Scopoli, 1769) in the Durban Metropole, KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. Urban Ecosyst 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11252-020-01066-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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15
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Golestani N, Khoshkhoo PH, Hosseini H, Azad GA. Detection and identification of Chlamydia spp. from pigeons in Iran by nested PCR and sequencing. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY 2020; 12:331-337. [PMID: 32994905 PMCID: PMC7502139 DOI: 10.18502/ijm.v12i4.3937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Chlamydia psittaci, an obligate intracellular, Gram-negative zoonotic pathogen, has eight serovars and nine genotypes isolated from avian species with higher frequency in parrots and pigeons. The aim of this study was to characterize Chlamydia spp. using nested PCR and sequencing. Materials and Methods A total of 270 pharyngeal swab samples collected randomly from asymptomatic pigeons of 30 pigeon aviaries in Tehran province. DNA was extracted with specific kit and amplified by specific primers in the first PCR and outer membrane protein A (ompA) gene in the second PCR. Positive samples were sequenced and phylogenetic tree analyzed based on the ompA gene. Results Records showed that 16 of 30 (53%) pigeon aviaries were positive for Chlamydia spp. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that 15 of 16 (93.7%) positive samples, belonged to C. psittaci genotype B whereas the other sample belonged to C. avium. C. psittaci detected in 50% of pigeon aviaries that is high rate in Tehran province. Conclusion As C. psittaci is a zoonosis and life threaten pathogen for human being, these results indicate the significance of it detection in asymptomatic pigeons. Also, this is the first report of Chlamydia avium presence in Iranian pigeons which its zoonotic potential is still unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Golestani
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
| | - Payam Haghighi Khoshkhoo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
| | - Gita Akbari Azad
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
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16
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Stokes HS, Martens JM, Jelocnik M, Walder K, Segal Y, Berg ML, Bennett ATD. Chlamydial diversity and predictors of infection in a wild Australian parrot, the Crimson Rosella (Platycercus elegans). Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 68:487-498. [PMID: 32603529 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Members of the Chlamydia genus are known to cause disease in both humans and animals. A variety of other species in the order Chlamydiales are increasingly being discovered and emerging as potential pathogens, yet there are scarce data on the diversity, prevalence and impacts of these pathogens in wild birds. To address this gap, we investigated which Chlamydiales species are present in a wild population of a common Australian parrot, the Crimson Rosella (Platycercus elegans). We collected cloacal swabs and serum from 136 individuals in south-eastern Australia, over two years, and tested several predictors of prevalence: age, sex, season and breeding status. We used multiple PCR assays to determine bacterial prevalence in cloacal swabs and a solid-phase ELISA to determine seroprevalence. We found Chlamydiales PCR prevalence of 27.7% (95% CI 20.2, 36.2) and identified at least two families (Chlamydiaceae and Parachlamydiaceae). Regarding known chlamydial avian pathogens, we found C. psittaci at 6.2% (95% CI 2.7, 11.8) and C. gallinacea at 4.6% (95% CI 1.7, 9.8) prevalence. We also identified at least two potentially novel Chlamydiales species, of unknown pathogenicity. Sex and breeding status predicted Chlamydiales PCR prevalence, with females more likely to be infected than males, and non-breeding birds more likely to be infected than breeding birds. Seroprevalence was 16% (95% CI 8.8, 25.9). Season and breeding status were strong predictors of seroprevalence, with highest seroprevalence in autumn and in non-breeding birds. Our results reveal a diversity of Chlamydiales species in this abundant wild host, and indicate that host-specific and temporal factors are associated with infection risk. Our findings suggest that wild parrots are a reservoir of both known and novel Chlamydiales lineages, of zoonotic and pathogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena S Stokes
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Johanne M Martens
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Martina Jelocnik
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Yonatan Segal
- Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, Attwood, VIC, Australia
| | - Mathew L Berg
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew T D Bennett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
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17
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Santos HM, Tsai CY, Catulin GEM, Trangia KCG, Tayo LL, Liu HJ, Chuang KP. Common bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases in pigeons (Columba livia): A review of diagnostic and treatment strategies. Vet Microbiol 2020; 247:108779. [PMID: 32768225 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2020.108779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pigeons (Columba livia) have been associated with humans for a long time now. They are raised for sport (pigeon race), exhibition (display of fancy breeds), food, and research. Most of the pigeons kept are Racing Homers, trained to compete in the pigeon race. Other breeds, such as Rollers, Nose Divers, Doneks are bred for their aerial abilities. Incorporation of a good preventive medicine program is one of the most critical factors in averting infectious diseases in pigeon flocks. This review summarizes the common bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections in pigeons. The different clinical signs, symptoms, diagnostic strategies, prevention, and treatments were described in this review. Current researches, molecular diagnostic assays, and treatment strategies such as vaccines and drug candidates were included. The information found in this review can provide insights for veterinarians and researchers studying pigeons to develop effective and efficient immunoprophylactic and diagnostic tools for pigeon diagnosis and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey M Santos
- School of Chemical, Biological and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Manila, 1002, Philippines
| | - Ching-Yi Tsai
- International Program in Animal Vaccine Technology, International College, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, 912, Taiwan
| | - Gail Everette M Catulin
- School of Chemical, Biological and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Manila, 1002, Philippines
| | - Kim Chloe G Trangia
- School of Chemical, Biological and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Manila, 1002, Philippines
| | - Lemmuel L Tayo
- School of Chemical, Biological and Materials Engineering and Sciences, Mapúa University, Manila, 1002, Philippines
| | - Hung-Jen Liu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan; The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan; Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan; Research Center for Animal Biologics, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, 912, Taiwan; Ph.D Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan
| | - Kuo Pin Chuang
- International Program in Animal Vaccine Technology, International College, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, 912, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Animal Vaccine Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, 912, Taiwan; Research Center for Animal Biologics, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, 912, Taiwan.
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18
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Baumann S, Gurtner C, Marti H, Borel N. Detection of Chlamydia species in 2 cases of equine abortion in Switzerland: a retrospective study from 2000 to 2018. J Vet Diagn Invest 2020; 32:542-548. [PMID: 32522107 DOI: 10.1177/1040638720932906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Species of genus Chlamydia are important pathogens of animals, with a worldwide distribution and broad host range. Some species, such as Chlamydia psittaci, also pose a zoonotic disease risk. Abortion is one of the many diseases that has been associated with chlamydial infections in animals, with most attention focused on the economic impacts to sheep production. The role of chlamydia in equine abortions is unknown. Using the family-specific 23S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) Chlamydiaceae real-time PCR, we tested 169 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded fetal membrane samples from 162 equine abortion cases collected between 2000 and 2018 in Switzerland. Two equine abortion cases (1.2%) tested positive for Chlamydiaceae. Further analyses by the species-specific 23S rRNA ArrayMate microarray and sequencing of a fragment of the 16S rRNA gene revealed C. abortus and C. psittaci. In both cases, equine herpesvirus 1 was also present, which might have been the abortion cause, alone or in synergy with Chlamydia. The prevalence of abortigenic chlamydial species in equine abortion cases in our study was significantly lower than rates described elsewhere. Zoonotic chlamydial agents present in equine fetal membranes nevertheless should be considered a potential risk to humans during foaling, abortion, or stillbirth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibylle Baumann
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (Baumann, Marti, Borel)
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (Gurtner)
| | - Corinne Gurtner
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (Baumann, Marti, Borel)
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (Gurtner)
| | - Hanna Marti
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (Baumann, Marti, Borel)
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (Gurtner)
| | - Nicole Borel
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (Baumann, Marti, Borel)
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (Gurtner)
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19
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Prevalence Rate and Phylogenetic Analysis of Chlamydia psittaci in Pigeon and House Sparrow Specimens and the Potential Human Infection Risk in Chahrmahal-va-Bakhtiari, Iran. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2020. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.67565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
: Chlamydia psittaci (C. psittaci) is an important zoonotic pathogen in birds and has been reported from urban pigeons (Columba livia) and house sparrows (Passer domesticus) worldwide. Some public areas in Iran, such as parks, have a high density of these birds; thus, they may be regarded as a zoonotic threat to humans. The current study aimed at performing the prevalence assessment as well as the phylogenetic analysis of C. psittaci in cloacal swab samples from these birds. To this aim, a total of 75 specimens of urban pigeon, 75 specimens of the house sparrow, and 30 pharyngeal swabs of humans who work in pet-markets were collected from six different zones of Chaharmal-va-Bakhtiari, a Southwestern Province of Iran. The prevalence of C. psittaci was 25.3% (19 out of 75), 18.6% (14 out of 75), and 10% (3 out of 30) among the pigeon, sparrow and the human samples, respectively. The prevalence of C. psittaci was considerably high in urban pigeons. To determine the genotype of C. psittaci, OmpA gene fragments in positive samples were amplified and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that strains from the pigeon and sparrow positive samples belonged to the genotypes B and A, while genotyping was unsuccessful for the positive human samples. Our findings suggest that the prevalence of C. psittaci in pigeons and sparrows is high in Chahrmahal-va-Bakhtiari posing as a potential infection risk to susceptible individuals in public places and parks. Therefore, it is essential to take effective measures for the implementation of proper control programs to prevent the possible infection of people with C. psittaci.
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Rybarczyk J, Versteele C, Lernout T, Vanrompay D. Human psittacosis: a review with emphasis on surveillance in Belgium. Acta Clin Belg 2020; 75:42-48. [PMID: 30882289 DOI: 10.1080/17843286.2019.1590889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci causes psittacosis in humans, mainly in persons in contact with birds in either the setting of occupational or companion bird exposure. Infection is associated with a range of clinical manifestations from asymptomatic infection to severe atypical pneumonia and systemic disease. This paper reviews new knowledge on psittacosis, its legal and regulatory aspects and presents epidemiological data on psittacosis in Belgium. In Belgium, the number of reported positive laboratory results increased slowly since 2010, and in 2017, the number almost doubled compared to the two previous years. The number of psittacosis cases in Belgium, as in other countries, is probably highly underestimated, because of underdiagnoses and underreporting. Over the 3-year period, the mandatory notification system registered 24% only of all reported positive laboratory result. Therefore, increased awareness among general and occupational physicians, clinicians and the public is needed. Policies aimed at reducing psittacosis disease burden are justified, nevertheless national health authorities should provide more legal and financial support to implement more adequate C. psittaci diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Rybarczyk
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Charlot Versteele
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tinne Lernout
- Scientific Directorate of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Daisy Vanrompay
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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21
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Mattmann P, Marti H, Borel N, Jelocnik M, Albini S, Vogler BR. Chlamydiaceae in wild, feral and domestic pigeons in Switzerland and insight into population dynamics by Chlamydia psittaci multilocus sequence typing. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226088. [PMID: 31887111 PMCID: PMC6936790 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Feral pigeons, common wood pigeons and Eurasian collared doves are the most common representatives of the Columbidae family in Switzerland and are mostly present in highly populated, urban areas. Pigeons may carry various members of the obligate intracellular Chlamydiaceae family, particularly Chlamydia (C.) psittaci, a known zoonotic agent, and C. avium. The objective of the study was to identify the infection rates of common free-roaming pigeons for different Chlamydia species with the overall aim to assess the risk pigeons pose to public health. In this study, 431 pigeons (323 feral pigeons, 34 domestic pigeons, 39 Eurasian collared doves, 35 common wood pigeons) from several geographic locations in Switzerland were investigated for the presence of Chlamydiaceae. Samples consisted of pooled choanal-cloacal swabs (n = 174), liver samples (n = 52), and paired swab and liver samples from 205 pigeons (n = 410). All 636 samples were screened using a Chlamydiaceae family-specific 23S rRNA real-time PCR (qPCR). Subsequent species identification was performed by DNA-microarray assay, sequencing of a 16S rRNA gene fragment and a C. psittaci specific qPCR. In total, 73 of the 431 pigeons tested positive for Chlamydiaceae, of which 68 were positive for C. psittaci, four were C. avium-positive and one pigeon was co-infected with C. avium and C. psittaci. The highest infection rates were detected in feral (64/323) and domestic pigeons (5/34). Common wood pigeons (2/35) and Eurasian collared doves (2/39) revealed lower infection rates. Additionally, multilocus sequence typing of twelve selected C. psittaci-positive samples revealed closely related sequence types (ST) between and within different Swiss cities. Furthermore, liver and corresponding swab samples from the same bird were colonized by the same ST. Considering the high infection rates of C. psittaci in domestic and feral pigeons, close or frequent contact to these birds poses a human health risk.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Animals, Domestic
- Animals, Wild
- Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/chemistry
- Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/classification
- Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/genetics
- Bird Diseases/diagnosis
- Bird Diseases/microbiology
- Chlamydiaceae/classification
- Chlamydiaceae/genetics
- Chlamydiaceae/isolation & purification
- Chlamydophila psittaci/genetics
- Chlamydophila psittaci/isolation & purification
- Columbidae
- DNA, Bacterial/chemistry
- DNA, Bacterial/isolation & purification
- DNA, Bacterial/metabolism
- Multilocus Sequence Typing
- Phylogeny
- Population Dynamics
- Psittacosis/diagnosis
- Psittacosis/microbiology
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/chemistry
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/isolation & purification
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/metabolism
- Switzerland
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Affiliation(s)
- Prisca Mattmann
- National Reference Centre for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases (NRGK), Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss Ornithological Institute, Sempach, Switzerland
| | - Hanna Marti
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Borel
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martina Jelocnik
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia
| | - Sarah Albini
- National Reference Centre for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases (NRGK), Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Renate Vogler
- National Reference Centre for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases (NRGK), Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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22
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Perez-Sancho M, García-Seco T, Porrero C, García N, Gomez-Barrero S, Cámara JM, Domínguez L, Álvarez J. A ten-year-surveillance program of zoonotic pathogens in feral pigeons in the City of Madrid (2005-2014): The importance of a systematic pest control. Res Vet Sci 2019; 128:293-298. [PMID: 31869595 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Feral pigeons have increased in urban settings worldwide becoming a potential health risk for humans and other animals. Control and surveillance programs are essential to prevent the possible transmission of zoonotic pathogens carried by pigeons. A surveillance program was carried out in Madrid City (Spain) during 2005-2014 to determine the role of urban pigeons as carriers of zoonotic agents comparing these results with studies performed elsewhere in the last fifteen years. A total of 1372 pigeons were randomly captured and tested for detection of Antimicrobial susceptibility and genetic heterogeneity of Campylobacter and Salmonella isolates were determined. During the first phase (August 2005-July 2010), 428 animals were analyzed individually, while in the second period (August 2010-December 2014), 944 pigeons were analyzed in pools (n = 2-3 in 2010 and n = 5-6 in 2013 and 2014). The most prevalent pathogen during the first phase was Campylobacter spp., (6.57%, 95% confidence interval 3.05-12.10%) followed by Salmonella spp. (4.41%, 95% CI: 2.30-7.58%) and C. psittaci (2.56%, 95% CI: 0.70-6.53%)]. The PCR techniques, used during the 2010-2014 phase of the study, confirmed the presence of Campylobacter spp. (prevalence of 0-14.83%) and C. psittaci (0-12,94%) among pigeons of Madrid. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing suggested low levels of resistance. Presence of zoonotic agents in feral pigeons highlights the importance of surveillance programs on this species, although the relative low prevalence found suggests a limited risk to Public and Animal Health in Madrid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Perez-Sancho
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Teresa García-Seco
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Concepción Porrero
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nerea García
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Susana Gomez-Barrero
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose María Cámara
- Unidad Técnica de Control de Vectores, Ayuntamiento de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucas Domínguez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julio Álvarez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Kuiken T, Breitbart M, Beer M, Grund C, Höper D, van den Hoogen B, Kerkhoffs JLH, Kroes ACM, Rosario K, van Run P, Schwarz M, Svraka S, Teifke J, Koopmans M. Zoonotic Infection With Pigeon Paramyxovirus Type 1 Linked to Fatal Pneumonia. J Infect Dis 2019; 218:1037-1044. [PMID: 29373675 PMCID: PMC7107406 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The characteristics and risk factors of pigeon paramyxovirus type 1 (PPMV-1) infection in humans are poorly known. We performed virological, pathological, and epidemiological analyses of a Dutch case, and compared the results with those of a US case. Both infections occurred in transplant patients under immunosuppressive therapy and caused fatal respiratory failure. Both virus isolates clustered with PPMV-1, which has pigeons and doves as reservoir. Experimentally inoculated pigeons became infected and transmitted the virus to naive pigeons. Both patients were likely infected by contact with infected pigeons or doves. Given the large populations of feral pigeons with PPMV-1 infection in cities, increasing urbanization, and a higher proportion of immunocompromised individuals, the risk of severe human PPMV-1 infections may increase. We recommend testing for avian paramyxovirus type 1, including PPMV-1, in respiratory disease cases where common respiratory pathogens cannot be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijs Kuiken
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mya Breitbart
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, Saint Petersburg
| | - Martin Beer
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Christian Grund
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Dirk Höper
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | | | - Jean-Louis H Kerkhoffs
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Aloys C M Kroes
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Karyna Rosario
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, Saint Petersburg
| | - Peter van Run
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sanela Svraka
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jens Teifke
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Marion Koopmans
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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24
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Liu SY, Li KP, Hsieh MK, Chang PC, Shien JH, Ou SC. Prevalence and Genotyping of Chlamydia psittaci from Domestic Waterfowl, Companion Birds, and Wild Birds in Taiwan. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2019; 19:666-673. [PMID: 30855216 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2018.2403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci, the causative agent of avian chlamydiosis, an important zoonotic disease, infects a wide range of birds. Infected birds, whether symptomatic or asymptomatic, intermittently shed the agent through respiratory and intestinal routes. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the epizootiology of C. psittaci in poultry, pet birds, and wild birds. In this study, cloacal or fecal swabs collected from domestic waterfowl, psittacine birds, Columbidae, and wild birds were used to determine the prevalence of C. psittaci in Taiwan between 2014 and 2017. The C. psittaci infection rate was as high as 34.2% among domestic waterfowl farms. The waterfowl isolates clustered into two groups based on ompA phylogeny: one group (G1-like) clustered with the Polish G1 strains; the other group (waterfowl-TW) clustered near, but independently from, the classical ABE genotype cluster. Separately, 3.1% of parrot samples tested positive for C. psittaci belonging to genotype A. C. psittaci isolates of genotype B were detected in 10.1% of racing pigeons and other Columbidae. Wild bird samples from a wildlife refuge had a 2.2% prevalence rate; among these, two atypical C. psittaci genotypes were detected in samples from a Malayan night heron (Gorsachius melanolophus) and a Taiwan barbet (Megalaima nuchalis). Taken together, our results revealed that the risk of C. psittaci transmission from domestic waterfowl and Columbidae birds to humans could be underestimated, given the high prevalence rates in these birds. Furthermore, the free-range rearing system of waterfowl in Taiwan may promote C. psittaci transmission between poultry and wild birds. Pet birds and racing pigeons, which are in close contact with people, are also possible sources for cross-species transmission. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the virulence, biological and genetic characteristics, and modes of transmission of Taiwanese C. psittaci isolates to facilitate the prevention and control of C. psittaci infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szu-Yu Liu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Po Li
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Kun Hsieh
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Animal Disease Diagnostic Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Poa-Chun Chang
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Hung Shien
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Animal Disease Diagnostic Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shan-Chia Ou
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Animal Disease Diagnostic Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
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25
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Chlamydia psittaci in Ocular Adnexal MALT Lymphoma: a Possible Causative Agent in the Pathogenesis of This Disease. CURRENT CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40588-018-0108-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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26
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Tolba HMN, Abou Elez RMM, Elsohaby I. Risk factors associated with Chlamydia psittaci infections in psittacine birds and bird handlers. J Appl Microbiol 2018; 126:402-410. [PMID: 30353983 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and potential risk factors associated with Chlamydia psittaci infections in psittacine birds and bird handlers in Egypt. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 190 swabs were collected from psittacine birds (n = 120) and bird handlers (n = 70) and were tested by polymerase chain reaction to detect the C. psittaci ompA gene. Chlamydia psittaci DNA was detected in 63 (52·5%) of 120 samples collected from psittacine birds. The occurrence of C. psittaci infections was high in Cockatiel birds (60%), followed by Fischer's lovebird (51%) and Rosy-faced lovebird (47·5%). Bird age, location (pet markets and households), housing (caged and aviary), and sampling season were considered significant risk factors for C. psittaci infections in psittacine birds. Of the 70 sputum swabs collected from bird handlers, only 4 (6%) were positive for C. psittaci. Positive cases were closely associated with older persons (≥30 years) who had respiratory signs and handled birds in pet markets. Further, wearing protective gloves and washing hands when handling psittacine birds decreased the frequency of C. psittaci infections in bird handlers. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of C. psittaci infections in psittacine birds in Egypt is high, which has a potential threat to human health in this area. Thus, dissemination of effective prevention and control measures is essential to prevent the spread of C. psittaci among psittacine birds, as well as among humans in contact with birds. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Results from this study highlighted the risk factors associated with C. psittaci infections in psittacine birds and bird handlers in Egypt and will aid in developing prevention and control measures to reduce the risk of C. psittaci infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M N Tolba
- Department of Avian and Rabbit Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig City, Egypt
| | - R M M Abou Elez
- Department of Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig City, Egypt
| | - I Elsohaby
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig City, Egypt.,Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
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27
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Chereau F, Rehn M, Pini A, Kühlmann-Berenzon S, Ydring E, Ringberg H, Runehagen A, Ockborn G, Dotevall L, Wallensten A. Wild and domestic bird faeces likely source of psittacosis transmission-A case-control study in Sweden, 2014-2016. Zoonoses Public Health 2018; 65:790-797. [PMID: 29984469 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Psittacosis is a zoonotic disease transmitted by birds. In Sweden, where psittacosis is notifiable, an average of eight cases per year were reported between 2002 and 2012. In 2013, an unusual increase in cases in southern Sweden was associated with exposure to wild birds. To further explore specific risk factors connected to wild birds and identify other risk factors for sporadic psittacosis, we conducted a case-control study including all domestically acquired psittacosis cases reported between December 2014 and April 2016 in Sweden. Cases were age-, sex- and geo-matched to controls randomly selected from a population register. Cases and controls completed a questionnaire investigating detailed exposures to wild and domestic birds. We compared cases to controls, calculating adjusted matched odds ratios (amOR) using conditional logistic regression. Thirty-one cases were notified: all cases lived in southern Sweden and 26 were ill during winter season. Two risk factors were independently associated with psittacosis infection: cleaning a wild bird feeder (amOR = 18.95; 95% CI: 2.11-170.03) and owning domestic birds (amOR = 5.55, 95% CI: 1.16-26.61). Our results suggest that exposure to bird faeces, for example when cleaning a wild bird feeder, was the main route of transmission. Following this study, the Public Health Agency of Sweden published recommendations on good practices when cleaning surfaces contaminated with bird faeces and recommended use of bird feeders with a design limiting faeces accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Chereau
- The Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden.,European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET), European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Moa Rehn
- The Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden.,European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET), European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alessandro Pini
- The Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden.,European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET), European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Elsie Ydring
- The Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Håkan Ringberg
- Regional Office of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Skåne County, Sweden
| | - Arne Runehagen
- Communicable Diseases Control Unit, Kronoberg County Council, Växjo, Sweden
| | - Gunilla Ockborn
- Regional Office of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Västra Götaland County, Sweden
| | - Leif Dotevall
- Regional Office of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Västra Götaland County, Sweden
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28
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Mair-Jenkins J, Lamming T, Dziadosz A, Flecknoe D, Stubington T, Mentasti M, Muir P, Monk P. A Psittacosis Outbreak among English Office Workers with Little or No Contact with Birds, August 2015. PLOS CURRENTS 2018; 10. [PMID: 29854568 PMCID: PMC5951689 DOI: 10.1371/currents.outbreaks.b646c3bb2b4f0e3397183f31823bbca6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Introduction On 14th August 2015 an office manager informed Public Health England of five employees known to have been diagnosed with pneumonia over the previous three weeks. We investigated to establish whether an outbreak occurred and to identify and control the source of infection. Methods We undertook case finding for self-reported pneumonia cases at local businesses (July-August 2015). Clinical samples from a hospitalised case were tested for common respiratory pathogens, but returned negative results. Further testing confirmed Chlamydia psittaci infection in this case (serology and PCR). We subsequently undertook C. psittaci testing for all cases, redefining them as confirmed (C. psittaci PCR or high antibody titre via serology) or probable (inconclusive C. psittaci serology). Twenty-eight day exposure histories informed descriptive epidemiological analysis. We conducted an environmental investigation at the office to identify potential sources of exposure. Results We identified six office workers with pneumonia; four met case definitions (three confirmed, one probable) with symptom onset between 29th July and 4th August 2015. Workplace was the only epidemiological link and only one case reported limited, indirect bird contact. Environmental investigations identified pigeons roosting near the office which were being fed by workers (none cases). Discussion This was a probable outbreak of psittacosis with no direct bird-to-human contact reported. Cases recovered after receiving appropriate antibiotics. Feeding of pigeons was stopped. A deep clean of office ventilation systems was conducted and workers were advised to avoid bird contact. We hypothesised that indirect environmental exposure to infected pigeons was to the source of this outbreak. This work provides evidence that health professionals should consider psittacosis in the differential diagnosis of cases of severe or atypical respiratory illness even without overt bird contact.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Mair-Jenkins
- Field Epidemiology Training Programme, Public Health England, Nottingham, United Kingdom; European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden; Field Epidemiology Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Tracey Lamming
- Public Health England East Midlands, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andy Dziadosz
- Environmental Health, Ashfield District Council, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Flecknoe
- Public Health England East Midlands, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Massimo Mentasti
- Bacteriology Reference Department, Respiratory and Vaccine Preventable Bacteria Reference Unit, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Muir
- Public Health Laboratory Bristol, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Monk
- Public Health England East Midlands, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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29
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Pisanu B, Laroucau K, Aaziz R, Vorimore F, Le Gros A, Chapuis JL, Clergeau P. CHLAMYDIA AVIUM DETECTION FROM A RING-NECKED PARAKEET ( PSITTACULA KRAMERI ) IN FRANCE. J Exot Pet Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2018.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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30
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Donati M, Laroucau K, Guerrini A, Balboni A, Salvatore D, Catelli E, Lupini C, Levi A, Di Francesco A. Chlamydiosis in Backyard Chickens (Gallus gallus) in Italy. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2018; 18:222-225. [PMID: 29595407 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2017.2211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Until recently, Chlamydia psittaci was considered to be the only etiological agent of avian chlamydiosis, but two new avian species, Chlamydia gallinacea and Chlamydia avium, have recently been described in poultry and pigeons or psittacine birds, respectively. The aim of this study was to explore the occurrence of C. psittaci and C. gallinacea in backyard chickens in Italy. Cloacal swabs were taken from 160 asymptomatic chickens reared in 16 backyard farms. Samples were tested for C. psittaci and C. gallinacea by specific real-time polymerase chain reaction assays, with 24 (15%) of the 160 chickens resulting positive for C. gallinacea. To attempt chlamydial isolation, new samples were obtained from two farms harboring a high prevalence (60% and 70%, respectively) of C. gallinacea-positive chickens. In total, eight C. gallinacea and one C. psittaci isolates were successfully recovered from 13 chickens. C. gallinacea was confirmed to be the endemic chlamydial species in chickens, with a high ompA intraspecies diversity. The presence of viable C. psittaci and C. gallinacea demonstrated by isolation from chickens in backyard farms poses a potential public health problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Donati
- 1 Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna , Bologna, Italy
| | - Karine Laroucau
- 2 Bacterial Zoonoses Unit, Animal Health Laboratory, University Paris-Est , Anses, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Alessandro Guerrini
- 3 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna , Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Balboni
- 3 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna , Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Salvatore
- 3 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna , Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Catelli
- 3 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna , Bologna, Italy
| | - Caterina Lupini
- 3 Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna , Bologna, Italy
| | - Aurora Levi
- 1 Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna , Bologna, Italy
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31
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Jelocnik M, Jenkins C, O'Rourke B, Barnwell J, Polkinghorne A. Molecular evidence to suggest pigeon-type Chlamydia psittaci in association with an equine foal loss. Transbound Emerg Dis 2018; 65:911-915. [PMID: 29352509 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci is an important avian pathogen with spillover from infected wild and domesticated birds also posing a risk to human health. We recently reported a case of C. psittaci equine placentitis associated with further spillover to humans. Molecular typing of this case revealed it belonged to the 6BC clade of C. psittaci, a globally distributed highly virulent set of strains, typically linked to infection spillover from parrots. Equine chlamydiosis associated with C. psittaci infection has previously been reported elsewhere in countries where parrots are not endemic, however, raising questions over the identity of infecting C. psittaci strains and the potential infection reservoirs. In this study, we describe the detection and molecular characterization of C. psittaci in a case of equine abortion in southern Queensland. Equine placenta and fresh liver and lung tissue from the necropsied foetus were positive by C. psittaci-specific qPCR. Chlamydia psittaci-specific multilocus sequence typing and ompA genotyping were used to further characterize the detected equine strains and an additional strain obtained from a dove from a different geographic region presenting with psittacosis. Molecular typing of this case revealed that the infecting equine strains were closely related to the C0sittaci detected in dove, all belonging to an evolutionary lineage of C. psittaci strains typically associated with infections of pigeons globally. This finding suggests a broader diversity of C. psittaci strains may be detected in horses and in association with reproductive loss, highlighting the need for an expansion of surveillance studies globally to understand the epidemiology of equine chlamydiosis and the associated zoonotic risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jelocnik
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, NSW, Australia
| | - C Jenkins
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, Menangle, NSW, Australia
| | - B O'Rourke
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, Menangle, NSW, Australia
| | - J Barnwell
- Equine Veterinary Services, Hodgson Vale, QLD, Australia
| | - A Polkinghorne
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, NSW, Australia
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32
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Torres-Mejía AM, Blanco-Peña K, Rodríguez C, Duarte F, Jiménez-Soto M, Esperón F. Zoonotic Agents in Feral Pigeons (Columba livia) from Costa Rica: Possible Improvements to Diminish Contagion Risks. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2017; 18:49-54. [PMID: 29243991 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2017.2131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Most studies on zoonotic agents in pigeons have been conducted in the Palearctic region, but the scarcity of data is notorious in the Neotropical region, where these birds can breed all year around and are in close contact with humans. In this study, we used a combination of culture-dependent and culture-independent methods to identify infectious agents in 141 fecal samples from pigeons collected at four urban parks from Costa Rica. Of these we identified 34 positive samples for Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Braenderup (24.1%), 13 for Chlamydophila psittaci (9.2%), 9 for enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (6.4% eaeA, 0% stx-1 and 0% stx-2), and 2 for Campylobacter jejuni (1.4%). These populations of pigeons pose low risk for healthy adult humans, however, they may pose a health risk to immunocompromised patients or children. This study provides scientific data, which can be incorporated into educational programs aiming to reverse the public attitude toward pigeon feeding and to rationally justify population control efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana María Torres-Mejía
- 1 Posgrado Regional en Ciencias Veterinarias (PCVET), Universidad Nacional , Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Kinndle Blanco-Peña
- 1 Posgrado Regional en Ciencias Veterinarias (PCVET), Universidad Nacional , Heredia, Costa Rica .,2 Instituto Regional de Estudios en Sustancias Tóxicas (IRET) , Universidad Nacional, Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - César Rodríguez
- 3 Facultad de Microbiología, Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales (CIET), Universidad de Costa Rica , San José, Costa Rica
| | - Francisco Duarte
- 4 Instituto Costarricense de Investigación y Enseñanza en Nutrición y Salud (INCIENSA) , Cartago, Costa Rica
| | - Mauricio Jiménez-Soto
- 4 Instituto Costarricense de Investigación y Enseñanza en Nutrición y Salud (INCIENSA) , Cartago, Costa Rica
| | - Fernando Esperón
- 6 Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (INIA-CISA) , Madrid, Spain
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33
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Brown KI, Graham KE, Soller JA, Boehm AB. Estimating the probability of illness due to swimming in recreational water with a mixture of human- and gull-associated microbial source tracking markers. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2017; 19:1528-1541. [PMID: 29114693 DOI: 10.1039/c7em00316a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Beaches often receive fecal contamination from more than one source. Human sources include untreated sewage as well as treated wastewater effluent, and animal sources include wildlife such as gulls. Different contamination sources are expected to pose different health risks to swimmers. Genetic microbial source tracking (MST) markers can be used to detect bacteria that are associated with different animal sources, but the health risks associated with a mixture of MST markers are unknown. This study presents a method for predicting these health risks, using human- and gull-associated markers as an example. Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) is conducted with MST markers as indicators. We find that risks associated with exposure to a specific concentration of a human-associated MST marker (HF) are greater if the HF source is untreated sewage rather than treated wastewater effluent. We also provide a risk-based threshold of HF from untreated sewage at a beach, to stay below a predicted illness risk of 3 per 100 swimmers, that is a function of gull-associated MST marker (CAT) concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra I Brown
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Science, Stanford University, 94305-4020, USA.
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34
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Balsamo G, Maxted AM, Midla JW, Murphy JM, Wohrle R, Edling TM, Fish PH, Flammer K, Hyde D, Kutty PK, Kobayashi M, Helm B, Oiulfstad B, Ritchie BW, Stobierski MG, Ehnert K, Tully TN. Compendium of Measures to ControlChlamydia psittaciInfection Among Humans (Psittacosis) and Pet Birds (Avian Chlamydiosis), 2017. J Avian Med Surg 2017; 31:262-282. [DOI: 10.1647/217-265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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35
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Ornelas-Eusebio E, Sánchez-Godoy FD, Chávez-Maya F, De la Garza-García JA, Hernández-Castro R, García-Espinosa G. First Identification of Chlamydia psittaci in the Acute Illness and Death of Endemic and Endangered Psittacine Birds in Mexico. Avian Dis 2017; 60:540-4. [PMID: 27309302 DOI: 10.1637/11360-122915-case] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A mortality episode of endemic and endangered psittacine birds from the genera Ara and Amazona occurred during January 2015. The birds were housed in a management unit for wildlife conservation that receives wild-caught birds from illegal trade. In total, 11 (57%) adult birds of different origins that shared these accommodations died. Only four of them were sent for diagnosis. The main lesions found at necropsy were consistent with those described previously for avian chlamydiosis; the presence of Chlamydiaceae was confirmed through immunofluorescence and amplification with further sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene by using hepatic tissue. Due to the lack of specific diagnostic tools on primary psittacine diseases, the pathogenic effects of systemic, respiratory, or enteric infections with high mortality rates remain unknown in Mexico. In this study, specific molecular identification of avian chlamydiosis was performed using a nested PCR on liver tissues, as well as choanal and cloacal swab samples, confirming the presence of Chlamydia psittaci in all of them. In addition, it was possible to obtain the ompA gene sequence from processed clinical samples, thereby allowing us to determine that the A genotype was affecting these birds. Although this genotype is the most commonly found worldwide in psittacine birds, this case report describes the first avian chlamydiosis outbreak affecting critically endangered and endemic psittacines subjected to reintegration programs in Mexico. Consequently, this study demonstrates the necessity of more exhaustive biosecurity strategies because other pathogens may be present and should be assessed, especially in highly threatened birds, before releasing them into their habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Ornelas-Eusebio
- A Department of Avian Medicine and Poultry Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Coyoacan 04510, D.F., Mexico
| | - F D Sánchez-Godoy
- A Department of Avian Medicine and Poultry Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Coyoacan 04510, D.F., Mexico
| | - F Chávez-Maya
- A Department of Avian Medicine and Poultry Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Coyoacan 04510, D.F., Mexico
| | - J A De la Garza-García
- B Department of Ecology of Pathogenic Agents, Dr. Manuel Gea González General Hospital, Tlalpan 14080, D.F., Mexico
| | - R Hernández-Castro
- B Department of Ecology of Pathogenic Agents, Dr. Manuel Gea González General Hospital, Tlalpan 14080, D.F., Mexico
| | - G García-Espinosa
- A Department of Avian Medicine and Poultry Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Coyoacan 04510, D.F., Mexico
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Wannaratana S, Thontiravong A, Amonsin A, Pakpinyo S. Persistence of Chlamydia psittaci in Various Temperatures and Times. Avian Dis 2017; 61:40-45. [PMID: 28301242 DOI: 10.1637/11475-072216-reg] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci, an obligate intracellular gram-negative bacteria, causes an important zoonotic disease in humans, namely, psittacosis. The objective of this study was to determine the persistent viability of C. psittaci at various temperature conditions. The cloacal swab samples were collected from feral and racing pigeons to find a C. psittaci field strain. The bacterial isolation showed that 1.3% of feral pigeons were PCR positive, while all samples of racing pigeons were PCR negative. Also, bacterial characterization suggested that it belonged to genotype B, which had bacterial titers 3.2 and 3.89 log 50% lethal dose/ml, respectively. A bacterial persistence test was performed, and the results showed that C. psittaci could survive at 56 C for up to 72 hr. In conclusion, C. psittaci could be found in feral pigeons in central Thailand. The bacteria can survive in equatorial temperature areas. This study was the first to report that C. psittaci could survive and has infectivity at 56 C for 72 hr. Therefore, awareness of C. psittaci infection in humans is necessary and should be a public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suwarak Wannaratana
- A Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-OK, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Aunyaratana Thontiravong
- B Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Alongkorn Amonsin
- C Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.,D Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Center of Excellence, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Somsak Pakpinyo
- E Avian Health Research Unit, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Hogerwerf L, Holstege MMC, Benincà E, Dijkstra F, van der Hoek W. Temporal and spatial analysis of psittacosis in association with poultry farming in the Netherlands, 2000-2015. BMC Infect Dis 2017; 17:519. [PMID: 28747153 PMCID: PMC5530506 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-017-2608-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Human psittacosis is a highly under diagnosed zoonotic disease, commonly linked to psittacine birds. Psittacosis in birds, also known as avian chlamydiosis, is endemic in poultry, but the risk for people living close to poultry farms is unknown. Therefore, our study aimed to explore the temporal and spatial patterns of human psittacosis infections and identify possible associations with poultry farming in the Netherlands. Methods We analysed data on 700 human cases of psittacosis notified between 01-01-2000 and 01-09-2015. First, we studied the temporal behaviour of psittacosis notifications by applying wavelet analysis. Then, to identify possible spatial patterns, we applied spatial cluster analysis. Finally, we investigated the possible spatial association between psittacosis notifications and data on the Dutch poultry sector at municipality level using a multivariable model. Results We found a large spatial cluster that covered a highly poultry-dense area but additional clusters were found in areas that had a low poultry density. There were marked geographical differences in the awareness of psittacosis and the amount and the type of laboratory diagnostics used for psittacosis, making it difficult to draw conclusions about the correlation between the large cluster and poultry density. The multivariable model showed that the presence of chicken processing plants and slaughter duck farms in a municipality was associated with a higher rate of human psittacosis notifications. The significance of the associations was influenced by the inclusion or exclusion of farm density in the model. Conclusions Our temporal and spatial analyses showed weak associations between poultry-related variables and psittacosis notifications. Because of the low number of psittacosis notifications available for analysis, the power of our analysis was relative low. Because of the exploratory nature of this research, the associations found cannot be interpreted as evidence for airborne transmission of psittacosis from poultry to the general population. Further research is needed to determine the prevalence of C. psittaci in Dutch poultry. Also, efforts to promote PCR-based testing for C. psittaci and genotyping for source tracing are important to reduce the diagnostic deficit, and to provide better estimates of the human psittacosis burden, and the possible role of poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenny Hogerwerf
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Manon M C Holstege
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,Currently: GD Animal Health, Deventer, the Netherlands
| | - Elisa Benincà
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,Department of Bacteriology and Epidemiology, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, 8200 AB, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Frederika Dijkstra
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Wim van der Hoek
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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Spennemann DHR, Watson MJ. Dietary habits of urban pigeons (Columba livia) and implications of excreta pH – a review. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1515/eje-2017-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractPigeons are considered to be urban pests, causing untold damage to buildings and potentially impacting the health of humans who come into contact with them or their faeces. Pigeon faecal matter has been implicated in both health impacts and building damage, with the acidity of the excreta playing an important role. Purpose of the Review. This paper is a wide-ranging review of the chemical processes of excreta in the pigeon to aid our understanding of the potential problems of pigeons to buildings and human amenity in the urban space. The natural pH of pigeons is shown to vary based on the bird’s and age as well as reproductive stage. Key findings of the review. The influences of the altered diet between the rock dove (the wild progenitor of the feral pigeon) and the feral pigeon are detailed, indicating that the human-based diet of urban pigeons most likely causes the feral pigeon excreta to be more acidic than the rock dove excreta. This higher acidity is due in part to diet, but also to potential increases in faecal and/or uric acid volumes due to the low quality of human-based diets. Again, this area of interest is highly data deficient due to the few number of studies and unspecified dietary intake before pH measurement. Implications of the review. Humans are increasingly concerned about pigeon populations (and presumably their accumulated faeces) in the urban space, and control comprises a large part of the interaction between humans and feral pigeons. This review provides a greater understanding of feral pigeons and the true effects of their excreta.
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Opota O, Brouillet R, Greub G, Jaton K. Methods for Real-Time PCR-Based Diagnosis of Chlamydia pneumoniae, Chlamydia psittaci, and Chlamydia abortus Infections in an Opened Molecular Diagnostic Platform. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1616:171-181. [PMID: 28600769 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7037-7_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The advances in molecular biology of the last decades have dramatically improved the field of diagnostic bacteriology. In particular, PCR-based technologies have impacted the diagnosis of infections caused by obligate intracellular bacteria such as pathogens from the Chlamydiacae family. Here, we describe a real-time PCR-based method using the Taqman technology for the diagnosis of Chlamydia pneumoniae, Chlamydia psittaci, and Chlamydia abortus infection. The method presented here can be applied to various clinical samples and can be adapted on opened molecular diagnostic platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onya Opota
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center, University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 48, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - René Brouillet
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center, University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 48, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center, University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 48, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Katia Jaton
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center, University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 48, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Ferreira VL, Dias RA, Raso TF. Screening of Feral Pigeons (Columba livia) for Pathogens of Veterinary and Medical Importance. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9061-2016-0296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Cai H, Chen S, Xu S, Sun Y, Bai Q, Lu C, Chen Y, Fu X, Xu G, Chen L. Deficiency of LIGHT signaling pathway exacerbates Chlamydia psittaci respiratory tract infection in mice. Microb Pathog 2016; 100:250-256. [PMID: 27725282 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2016.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
LIGHT, a costimulatory member of the immunoglobulin superfamily (Ig SF), can greatly impact T cell activation. The role of the LIGHT signaling pathway in chlamydial infection was evaluated in mice following respiratory tract infection with Chlamydia psittaci. Compared with wild type (WT) mice, LIGHT knockout (KO) mice showed significant reduction of body weight, much lower survival rate, higher bacterial burden, prolonged infection time courses and more severe pathological changes in lung tissue. The mRNA levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-17 and IL-12 in the lung tissue of LIGHT KO mice were significantly lower than those in WT mice. While there was no obvious difference in the percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the spleens of the two groups of mice, there was a markedly elevated percentage of CD4+ CD25+ FoxP3+ Treg cells in LIGHT KO mice. Together, these results demonstrate that the LIGHT signaling pathway is not only required for inflammatory cytokine production as part of the host response to chlamydial infection, but also influences the differentiation of CD4+ CD25+ FoxP3+ Treg cells, both of which may be essential for control of C. psittaci respiratory tract infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengling Cai
- College of Public Health, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China; Medical College, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Shenghua Chen
- Medical College, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Sha Xu
- College of Public Health, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Yuanbin Sun
- College of Public Health, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Qinqin Bai
- College of Public Health, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Chunxue Lu
- Medical College, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Yuyu Chen
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 421000, China
| | - Xizong Fu
- College of Public Health, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Guilian Xu
- Institute of Immunology, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
| | - Lili Chen
- College of Public Health, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
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DETECTION OF ZOONOTIC PATHOGENS IN WILD BIRDS IN THE CROSS-BORDER REGION AUSTRIA – CZECH REPUBLIC. J Wildl Dis 2016; 52:850-861. [DOI: 10.7589/2016-02-038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Bou Khalil JY, Benamar S, Baudoin JP, Croce O, Blanc-Tailleur C, Pagnier I, Raoult D, La Scola B. Developmental Cycle and Genome Analysis of "Rubidus massiliensis," a New Vermamoeba vermiformis Pathogen. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2016; 6:31. [PMID: 27014641 PMCID: PMC4791399 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2016.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of amoeba-associated Chlamydiae is a dynamic field in which new species are increasingly reported. In the present work, we characterized the developmental cycle and analyzed the genome of a new member of this group associated with Vermamoeba vermiformis, we propose to name “Rubidus massiliensis.” This bacterium is well-adapted to its amoeba host and do not reside inside of inclusion vacuoles after phagocytosis. It has a developmental cycle typical of this family of bacteria, with a transition from condensed elementary bodies to hypodense replicative reticulate bodies. Multiplication occurs through binary fission of the reticulate bodies. The genome of “R. massiliensis” consists of a 2.8 Mbp chromosome and two plasmids (pRm1, pRm2) consisting of 39,075 bp and 80,897 bp, respectively, a feature that is unique within this group. The Re-analysis of the Chlamydiales genomes including the one of “R. massiliensis” slightly modified the previous phylogeny of the tlc gene encoding the ADP/ATP translocase. Our analysis suggested that the tlc gene could have been transferred to plant and algal plastids before the transfer to Rickettsiales, and that this gene was probably duplicated several times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Y Bou Khalil
- Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, Facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie, UM63 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 7278 IRD 198 Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1095, Aix-Marseille Université Marseille, France
| | - Samia Benamar
- Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, Facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie, UM63 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 7278 IRD 198 Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1095, Aix-Marseille Université Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Baudoin
- Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Fédération de Bactériologie-Hygiène-Virologie, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Timone, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille Marseille, France
| | - Olivier Croce
- Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, Facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie, UM63 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 7278 IRD 198 Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1095, Aix-Marseille Université Marseille, France
| | - Caroline Blanc-Tailleur
- Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, Facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie, UM63 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 7278 IRD 198 Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1095, Aix-Marseille Université Marseille, France
| | - Isabelle Pagnier
- Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, Facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie, UM63 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 7278 IRD 198 Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1095, Aix-Marseille Université Marseille, France
| | - Didier Raoult
- Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, Facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie, UM63 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 7278 IRD 198 Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1095, Aix-Marseille UniversitéMarseille, France; Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Fédération de Bactériologie-Hygiène-Virologie, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Timone, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de MarseilleMarseille, France
| | - Bernard La Scola
- Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, Facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie, UM63 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 7278 IRD 198 Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1095, Aix-Marseille UniversitéMarseille, France; Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Fédération de Bactériologie-Hygiène-Virologie, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Timone, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de MarseilleMarseille, France
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Ebani VV, Bertelloni F, Mani P. Molecular survey on zoonotic tick-borne bacteria and chlamydiae in feral pigeons (Columba livia domestica). ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2016; 9:324-327. [PMID: 27086148 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjtm.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Revised: 02/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the presence of zoonotic tick-borne bacteria in feral pigeons (Columba livia domestica) from urban areas. METHODS Spleen samples from 84 feral pigeons, found dead with traumatic injuries in urban areas, were examined by PCR to detect DNA of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Bartonella spp., Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Coxiella burnetii, Rickettsia spp., and Chlamydophila spp. RESULTS Twenty (23.8%) pigeons were infected by tick-borne agents, in particular 2 (2.38%) animals resulted positive for Bartonella spp., 5 (5.95%) for C. burnetii, 5 (5.95%) for Rickettsia spp., 13 (15.47%) for B. burgdorferi sensu lato. All birds scored negative for A. phagocytophilum. Moreover, 17 (20.23%) pigeons were positive for Chlamydophila spp. and among them 10 (11.9%) for Chlamydophila psittaci. Mixed infections by two or three agents were detected in 8 (9.52%) animals. CONCLUSIONS Feral pigeons living in urban and periurban areas are a hazard for the human health as source of several pathogens. The obtained results confirm pigeons as reservoirs of chlamydial agents and suggest that they may be involved in the epidemiology of zoonotic tick-borne infections too.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabrizio Bertelloni
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Mani
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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Shivaprasad HL, Carnaccini S, Bland M, Aaziz R, Moeller R, Laroucau K. An Unusual Outbreak of Chlamydiosis in Commercial Turkeys Involving the Nasal Glands. Avian Dis 2015; 59:315-22. [PMID: 26473684 DOI: 10.1637/11006-123014-reg] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
An unusual outbreak of chlamydiosis was diagnosed in 15,000, 13-wk-old organically grown turkeys housed in a semiconfinement housing system. The disease was characterized by unilateral or bilateral swelling above the eye due to mild-to-severe inflammation of the nasal glands in 3%-5% of the birds. Except for a slight drop in feed and water consumption, the birds did not exhibit any respiratory signs, morbidity, and mortality. Chlamydiosis in the turkeys was confirmed by immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and PCR assay of the nasal glands. Other samples such as conjunctiva, lungs, air sacs, heart, liver, spleen, and feces were negative for chlamydia by florescence antibody test in birds submitted over several weeks. Chlamydia psittaci strain B was isolated in chicken egg embryos and typed by multilocus sequence variable number of tandem repeats analysis, multilocus sequence typing, and ompA gene sequencing as a CP3-like strain. This is the first report of a naturally occurring chlamydiosis affecting the nasal glands in turkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- H L Shivaprasad
- A California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, Tulare Branch, University of California-Davis, 18830 Road 112, Tulare, CA 93274
| | - S Carnaccini
- A California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, Tulare Branch, University of California-Davis, 18830 Road 112, Tulare, CA 93274
| | - M Bland
- B Cutler Veterinary Associates International, 3562 Jomar, Napa, CA 94558
| | - R Aaziz
- C Anses, Animal Health Laboratory, Bacterial Zoonoses Unit, 94706 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - R Moeller
- A California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, Tulare Branch, University of California-Davis, 18830 Road 112, Tulare, CA 93274
| | - K Laroucau
- C Anses, Animal Health Laboratory, Bacterial Zoonoses Unit, 94706 Maisons-Alfort, France
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Di Francesco A, Donati M, Laroucau K, Balboni A, Galuppi R, Merialdi G, Salvatore D, Renzi M. Chlamydiae in corvids. Vet Rec 2015; 177:466. [PMID: 26428897 DOI: 10.1136/vr.103218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Di Francesco
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia (Bologna), Italy
| | - M Donati
- Section of Microbiology DIMES, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - K Laroucau
- Department of Anses, Animal Health Laboratory, Bacterial Zoonoses Unit, Paris-Est University, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - A Balboni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia (Bologna), Italy
| | - R Galuppi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia (Bologna), Italy
| | - G Merialdi
- IZSLER Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna, Sezione di Bologna, Italy
| | - D Salvatore
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia (Bologna), Italy
| | - M Renzi
- IZSLER Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna, Sezione di Bologna, Italy
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Abstract
We investigated the Chlamydia spp. occurrence in Eurasian Collared Doves (Streptopelia decaocto) from urban and suburban areas in northern Italy. Among 76 doves screened, prevalence of Chlamydia spp. was 61%. Chlamydia psittaci genotype E was identified in 33 of the 46 positive samples. The multilocus sequence typing pattern of one highly positive sample showed a new allelic combination. The same molecular features were observed in a C. psittaci strain subsequently isolated from a live dove. Our results reveal a high C. psittaci prevalence in S. decaocto. The spread of this zoonotic pathogen from collared doves to other birds or humans seems to be a potential risk.
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Opota O, Jaton K, Branley J, Vanrompay D, Erard V, Borel N, Longbottom D, Greub G. Improving the molecular diagnosis of Chlamydia psittaci and Chlamydia abortus infection with a species-specific duplex real-time PCR. J Med Microbiol 2015; 64:1174-1185. [PMID: 26297212 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci and Chlamydia abortus are closely related intracellular bacteria exhibiting different tissue tropism that may cause severe but distinct infection in humans. C. psittaci causes psittacosis, a respiratory zoonotic infection transmitted by birds. C. abortus is an abortigenic agent in small ruminants, which can also colonize the human placenta and lead to foetal death and miscarriage. Infections caused by C. psittaci and C. abortus are underestimated mainly due to diagnosis difficulties resulting from their strict intracellular growth. We developed a duplex real-time PCR to detect and distinguish these two bacteria in clinical samples. The first PCR (PCR1) targeted a sequence of the 16S-23S rRNA operon allowing the detection of both C. psittaci and C. abortus. The second PCR (PCR2) targeted the coding DNA sequence CPSIT_0607 unique to C. psittaci. The two PCRs showed 100 % detection for ≥ 10 DNA copies per reaction (1000 copies ml(- 1)). Using a set of 120 samples, including bacterial reference strains, clinical specimens and infected cell culture material, we monitored 100 % sensitivity and 100 % specificity for the detection of C. psittaci and C. abortus for PCR1. When PCR1 was positive, PCR2 could discriminate C. psittaci from C. abortus with a positive predictive value of 100 % and a negative predictive value of 88 %. In conclusion, this new duplex PCR represents a low-cost and time-saving method with high-throughput potential, expected to improve the routine diagnosis of psittacosis and pregnancy complication in large-scale screening programs and also during outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onya Opota
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne and University Hospital Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Katia Jaton
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne and University Hospital Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - James Branley
- Department of Microbiology, Nepean Hospital, Penrith, Sydney, Australia
| | - Daisy Vanrompay
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Veronique Erard
- Clinic of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, HFR-Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Borel
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Longbottom
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne and University Hospital Center, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Infectious Diseases Service, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Chlamydiaceae in North Atlantic Seabirds Admitted to a Wildlife Rescue Center in Western France. Appl Environ Microbiol 2015; 81:4581-90. [PMID: 25934619 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00778-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Birds are the primary hosts of Chlamydia psittaci, a bacterium that can cause avian chlamydiosis in birds and psittacosis in humans. Wild seabirds are frequently admitted to wildlife rescue centers (WRC) at European Atlantic coasts, for example, in connection with oil spills. To investigate the extent of chlamydial shedding by these birds and the resulting risk for animals in care and the medical staff, seabirds from a French WRC were sampled from May 2011 to January 2014. By use of a quantitative PCR (qPCR), 195 seabirds belonging to 4 orders, 5 families and 13 species were examined, of which 18.5% proved to be Chlamydiaceae positive. The highest prevalence of shedders was found in northern gannets (Morus bassanus) (41%), followed by European herring gulls (Larus argentatus) (14%) and common murres (Uria aalge) (7%). Molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of qPCR-positive northern gannet samples revealed two variants of a strain closely related to C. psittaci. In European herring gulls and in one common murre, strains showing high sequence similarity to the atypical Chlamydiaceae-like C122 previously found in gulls were detected. Our study shows that seabirds from the northeastern Atlantic Ocean carry several chlamydial organisms, including C. psittaci-related strains. The staff in WRCs should take protective measures, particularly in the case of mass admissions of seabirds.
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Sariya L, Prompiram P, Tangsudjai S, Poltep K, Chamsai T, Mongkolphan C, Rattanavibul K, Sakdajivachareon V. Detection and characterization of Chlamydophila psittaci in asymptomatic feral pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in central Thailand. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2015; 8:94-7. [PMID: 25902021 DOI: 10.1016/s1995-7645(14)60195-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2014] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To detect and characterize Chlamydophila psittaci (C. psittaci) in asymptomatic feral pigeons in central Thailand. METHODS A total 814 swabs from the trachea and cloacae of 407 non-clinical feral pigeons in central Thailand were collected and tested for the presence of C. psittaci. RESULTS A 10.8% of feral pigeons in the sample group were positive as determined by nested PCR primer specific to C. psittaci. The outer membrane protein A (ompA) gene of positive samples exhibited amino acid identity of C. psittaci ranging from 71 to 100% and were grouped in genotype B. Exceptionally, BF1676-56 isolate was closely related to Chlamydia avium with 99% identification of the 16S ribosomal (r) RNA gene. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report on C. psittaci isolated from asymptomatic feral pigeons in Thailand, which provides knowledge for the disease status in pigeon populations in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladawan Sariya
- Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand 73170.
| | - Phirom Prompiram
- Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand 73170
| | - Siriporn Tangsudjai
- Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand 73170
| | - Kanaporn Poltep
- Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand 73170
| | - Tatiyanuch Chamsai
- Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand 73170
| | - Chalisa Mongkolphan
- Monitoring and Surveillance Center for Zoonotic Diseases in Wildlife and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand 73170
| | - Kamolphan Rattanavibul
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, Department of Health, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand 10200
| | - Verachai Sakdajivachareon
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, Department of Health, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand 10200
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