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Garden Scraps: Agonistic Interactions between Hedgehogs and Sympatric Mammals in Urban Gardens. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040590. [PMID: 36830377 PMCID: PMC9951724 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040590] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hedgehogs occur within an urban mammal guild in the United Kingdom. This guild commonly utilizes anthropogenic food provision, which is potentially beneficial to wild animal populations, but may also bring competitors and predators into proximity, raising the question of how these species interact in urban gardens. In this study, we determined interactions between hedgehogs, foxes, badgers, and domestic cats using videos submitted via citizen science. We analyzed interactions within and between species to determine interaction type, hierarchical relationships, and effect of supplementary food presence/amount. We found that overall agonistic interactions between individuals occurred more frequently (55.4%) than neutral interactions (44.6%) and that interspecific interactions showed greater agonism (55.4%) than intraspecific ones (36%). Within intraspecific interactions, those between hedgehogs were the most agonistic (54.9%) and between badgers the least (6.7%). Species composition of the interaction affected agonism, with interactions between cats and foxes showing the highest level (76.7%). In terms of overall "wins", where access to garden resources was gained, badgers dominated cats, which were dominant or equal to foxes, which dominated hedgehogs. However, hedgehogs exhibited a greater overall proportion of wins (39.3%) relative to cats. Our findings are important in the context of the documented impact of patchy resources on urban wildlife behavior, and we show that provision of anthropogenic food can potentially result in unintended consequences. We recommend actions to reduce proximity of guild competitors in space and time to limit negative effects.
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Miljević M, Lalošević D, Simin V, Blagojević J, Čabrilo B, Čabrilo OB. Intestinal helminth infections in the golden jackal (Canis aureus L.) from Vojvodina: Hotspot area of multilocular echinococcosis in Serbia. Acta Vet Hung 2021; 69:274-281. [PMID: 34506299 DOI: 10.1556/004.2021.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, 64 golden jackals were examined for intestinal helminths in three regions of Vojvodina, Serbia. Among the examined jackals 57.8% were infected with at least one parasite species. Using the intestinal scraping technique (SCT), eight species of intestinal helminths were found: Alaria alata (7.8%), Toxascaris leonina (9.4%), Toxocara canis (4.7%), Uncinaria stenocephala (20.3%), Echinococcus multilocularis (14.1%), Mesocestoides sp. (42.2%), Taenia pisiformis, and Taenia hydatigena (the overall prevalence of Taenia infection was 6.3%). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of T. leonina in jackals from Serbia. In comparison with the SCT results, coprological tests were less sensitive and specific for parasite identification, as only two nematode species (T. leonina and T. canis) as well as ancylostomatid and taeniid eggs were identified. The total prevalence of intestinal helminths was higher in males (71.9% males, 45% females), but the difference was not statistically significant (χ 2 = 3.76; P = 0.052). Co-infection with two species of intestinal helminths was found in 35% of the examined golden jackal individuals, three-species co-infection was demonstrated in 21.6%, whereas four-species co-infection was detected in 2.7% of the golden jackals examined. Echinococcus multilocularis has previously been recorded in jackals and foxes in Serbia, but only in Vojvodina. Our results corroborate the findings of previous studies, and indicate that the Vojvodina Province, more specifically the Srem region, is probably a high-risk area for E. multilocularis transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan Miljević
- 1 Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research ‘Siniša Stanković’, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dušan Lalošević
- 2 Department for Microbiological and Other Diagnostics, Pasteur Institute Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Verica Simin
- 2 Department for Microbiological and Other Diagnostics, Pasteur Institute Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Jelena Blagojević
- 1 Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research ‘Siniša Stanković’, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Borislav Čabrilo
- 3 Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Olivera Bjelić Čabrilo
- 3 Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
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Prullage J, Bowman D, Ulrich M, Tielemans E. Efficacy of a novel topical combination of esafoxolaner, eprinomectin and praziquantel against Echinococcus multilocularis infections in cats. Parasite 2021; 28:29. [PMID: 33812461 PMCID: PMC8019559 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2021025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
NexGard® Combo, a novel topical endectoparasiticide formulation for cats combining esafoxolaner, eprinomectin and praziquantel, for the treatment of internal and external parasite infestations, including arthropods, nematodes and cestodes, was tested for efficacy against induced infections of Echinococcus multilocularis in cats, in two experimental studies. The two studies were performed in the United States with the same E. multilocularis isolate sourced locally. In each study, 20 cats were inoculated intra-gastrically with ~30,000 E. multilocularis protoscoleces three weeks before treatment, then ten cats were randomly allocated to a placebo control group or to the novel formulation treated group. Inoculated cats were treated topically once at the minimum recommended dose of the novel formulation, or with an identical volume of placebo. One week after treatment, cats were humanely euthanized for parasite recovery and count. The efficacy calculation was based on comparison of number of scoleces found in the control group and the novel formulation group. In the two control groups, E. multilocularis scoleces were found in five (range: 30-1025) and eight (range 2-345) cats, the geometric means inclusive of the ten cats per group were 8.9 and 28.8, respectively. In the two novel formulation-treated groups, none of the cats harbored any E. multilocularis scoleces, demonstrating 100% efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Prullage
- Boehringer-Ingelheim Animal Health, Missouri Research Center 6498 Jade Rd. Fulton 65251 MO USA
| | - Dwight Bowman
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine Ithaca 14850 NY USA
| | - Michael Ulrich
- Cheri Hill Kennel and Supply Inc. 17190 Polk Rd. Stanwood 49346 MI USA
| | - Eric Tielemans
- Boehringer-Ingelheim Animal Health 29 Avenue Tony Garnier 69007 Lyon France
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Scott DM, Baker R, Charman N, Karlsson H, Yarnell RW, Mill AC, Smith GC, Tolhurst BA. A citizen science based survey method for estimating the density of urban carnivores. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0197445. [PMID: 29787598 PMCID: PMC5963764 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0197445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally there are many examples of synanthropic carnivores exploiting growth in urbanisation. As carnivores can come into conflict with humans and are potential vectors of zoonotic disease, assessing densities in suburban areas and identifying factors that influence them are necessary to aid management and mitigation. However, fragmented, privately owned land restricts the use of conventional carnivore surveying techniques in these areas, requiring development of novel methods. We present a method that combines questionnaire distribution to residents with field surveys and GIS, to determine relative density of two urban carnivores in England, Great Britain. We determined the density of: red fox (Vulpes vulpes) social groups in 14, approximately 1km2 suburban areas in 8 different towns and cities; and Eurasian badger (Meles meles) social groups in three suburban areas of one city. Average relative fox group density (FGD) was 3.72 km-2, which was double the estimates for cities with resident foxes in the 1980’s. Density was comparable to an alternative estimate derived from trapping and GPS-tracking, indicating the validity of the method. However, FGD did not correlate with a national dataset based on fox sightings, indicating unreliability of the national data to determine actual densities or to extrapolate a national population estimate. Using species-specific clustering units that reflect social organisation, the method was additionally applied to suburban badgers to derive relative badger group density (BGD) for one city (Brighton, 2.41 km-2). We demonstrate that citizen science approaches can effectively obtain data to assess suburban carnivore density, however publicly derived national data sets need to be locally validated before extrapolations can be undertaken. The method we present for assessing densities of foxes and badgers in British towns and cities is also adaptable to other urban carnivores elsewhere. However this transferability is contingent on species traits meeting particular criteria, and on resident responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn M. Scott
- Conservation Ecology and Zoonosis Research Group, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Rowenna Baker
- Conservation Ecology and Zoonosis Research Group, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Naomi Charman
- Conservation Ecology and Zoonosis Research Group, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Heidi Karlsson
- Conservation Ecology and Zoonosis Research Group, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Richard W. Yarnell
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, United Kingdom
| | - Aileen C. Mill
- Centre for Wildlife Management, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Graham C. Smith
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Sand Hutton, York, United Kingdom
| | - Bryony A. Tolhurst
- Conservation Ecology and Zoonosis Research Group, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
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Knapp J, Combes B, Umhang G, Aknouche S, Millon L. Could the domestic cat play a significant role in the transmission of Echinococcus multilocularis? A study based on qPCR analysis of cat feces in a rural area in France. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 23:42. [PMID: 27739398 PMCID: PMC5782850 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2016052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Echinococcus multilocularis, a cestode parasite responsible for alveolar echinococcosis in humans, is often reported in Europe. It involves red foxes, domestic dogs, and domestic and wild cats as definitive hosts. The parasite infects small mammals and accidentally humans as intermediate hosts and develops in a similar way to a tumor, usually in the liver. Domestic animals are suspected of playing a role in parasite transmission, but this is rarely proven. Moreover, the role of domestic cats is thought to be small, because of experimental studies showing incomplete development of the parasite observed in their intestines. In the present study, we investigated copro-sampling performed in a rural and highly endemic area in Eastern France, on carnivore feces (n = 150). From these samples, the parasite was detected and identified by DNA analysis using quantitative PCR targeting part of a mitochondrial gene (Em-qPCR). Taeniid eggs were isolated from positive-Em-qPCR samples by flotation, and species identification was confirmed by sequencing on DNA extracts. From a total of 43 copro-samples from cats, four tested positive for E. multilocularis by the Em-qPCR. In two of these, we found parasite eggs that were identified as E. multilocularis. This finding was confirmed by sequencing, while one dog stool out of 61 collected was found to be positive, no egg was detectable. At the same time, 34% of fox stools tested positive for the parasite. The present study challenges the current idea that cats are only of minor significance in the E. multilocularis life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Knapp
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR UBFC/CNRS 6249 aff. INRA, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25030 Besançon, France - Department of Parasitology-Mycology, University Hospital of Besançon, 25030 Besançon, France
| | - Benoît Combes
- Entente for the Control of Zoonoses, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Gérald Umhang
- ANSES Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Surveillance and Eco-Epidemiology Unit, Technopole Agricole et Vétérinaire, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Soufiane Aknouche
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR UBFC/CNRS 6249 aff. INRA, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25030 Besançon, France
| | - Laurence Millon
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR UBFC/CNRS 6249 aff. INRA, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 25030 Besançon, France - Department of Parasitology-Mycology, University Hospital of Besançon, 25030 Besançon, France
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Oksanen A, Siles-Lucas M, Karamon J, Possenti A, Conraths FJ, Romig T, Wysocki P, Mannocci A, Mipatrini D, La Torre G, Boufana B, Casulli A. The geographical distribution and prevalence of Echinococcus multilocularis in animals in the European Union and adjacent countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:519. [PMID: 27682156 PMCID: PMC5039905 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1746-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to provide a systematic review on the geographical distribution of Echinococcus multilocularis in definitive and intermediate hosts in the European Union (EU) and adjacent countries (AC). The relative importance of the different host species in the life-cycle of this parasite was highlighted and gaps in our knowledge regarding these hosts were identified. METHODS Six databases were searched for primary research studies published from 1900 to 2015. From a total of 2,805 identified scientific papers, 244 publications were used for meta-analyses. RESULTS Studies in 21 countries reported the presence of E. multilocularis in red foxes, with the following pooled prevalence (PP): low (≤ 1 %; Denmark, Slovenia and Sweden); medium (> 1 % to < 10 %; Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania and the Ukraine); and high (> 10 %; Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Liechtenstein and Switzerland). Studies from Finland, Ireland, the United Kingdom and Norway reported the absence of E. multilocularis in red foxes. However, E. multilocularis was detected in Arctic foxes from the Arctic Archipelago of Svalbard in Norway. CONCLUSIONS Raccoon dogs (PP 2.2 %), golden jackals (PP 4.7 %) and wolves (PP 1.4 %) showed a higher E. multilocularis PP than dogs (PP 0.3 %) and cats (PP 0.5 %). High E. multilocularis PP in raccoon dogs and golden jackals correlated with high PP in foxes. For intermediate hosts (IHs), muskrats (PP 4.2 %) and arvicolids (PP 6.0 %) showed similar E. multilocularis PP as sylvatic definitive hosts (DHs), excluding foxes. Nutrias (PP 1.0 %) and murids (PP 1.1 %) could play a role in the life-cycle of E. multilocularis in areas with medium to high PP in red foxes. In areas with low PP in foxes, no other DH was found infected with E. multilocularis. When fox E. multilocularis PP was >3 %, raccoon dogs and golden jackals could play a similar role as foxes. In areas with high E. multilocularis fox PP, the wolf emerged as a potentially important DH. Dogs and cats could be irrelevant in the life-cycle of the parasite in Europe, although dogs could be important for parasite introduction into non-endemic areas. Muskrats and arvicolids are important IHs. Swine, insectivores, murids and nutrias seem to play a minor or no role in the life-cycle of the parasite within the EU and ACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antti Oksanen
- Finnish Food Safety Authority Evira (FINPAR), Elektroniikkatie 3, FI-90590 Oulu, Finland
| | - Mar Siles-Lucas
- Department of Parasitic Zoonoses, IRNASA, CSIC, Cordel de Merinas, 40-52, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Jacek Karamon
- Department of Parasitology, National Veterinary Research Institute, 57 Partyzantów Avenue, 24-100, Puławy, Poland
| | - Alessia Possenti
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanitá, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
- European Reference Laboratory for Parasites (EURLP), Rome, Italy
| | - Franz J. Conraths
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Thomas Romig
- Universität Hohenheim, FG Parasitologie 220 B, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Patrick Wysocki
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Alice Mannocci
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Sapienza University of Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Mipatrini
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Sapienza University of Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Torre
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Sapienza University of Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Belgees Boufana
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanitá, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
- European Reference Laboratory for Parasites (EURLP), Rome, Italy
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for the Epidemiology, Detection and Control of Cystic and Alveolar echinococcosis (in humans and animals), Rome, Italy
| | - Adriano Casulli
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanitá, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
- European Reference Laboratory for Parasites (EURLP), Rome, Italy
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for the Epidemiology, Detection and Control of Cystic and Alveolar echinococcosis (in humans and animals), Rome, Italy
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Bartley PM, Hamilton C, Wilson C, Innes EA, Katzer F. Detection of Babesia annae DNA in lung exudate samples from Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Great Britain. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:84. [PMID: 26867572 PMCID: PMC4751633 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1364-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Babesia species DNA in lung exudate samples collected from red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from across Great Britain. Babesia are small piroplasmid parasites which are mainly transmitted through the bite of infected ticks of the family Ixodidae. Babesia can cause potentially fatal disease in a wide-range of mammalian species including humans, dogs and cattle, making them of significant economic importance to both the medical and veterinary fields. METHODS DNA was extracted from lung exudate samples of 316 foxes. A semi-nested PCR was used to initially screen samples, using universal Babesia-Theileria primers which target the 18S rRNA gene. A selection of positive PCR amplicons were purified and sequenced. Subsequently specific primers were designed to detect Babesia annae and used to screen all 316 DNA samples. Randomly selected positive samples were purified and sequenced (GenBank accession KT580786). Clones spanning a 1717 bp region of the 18S rRNA gene were generated from 2 positive samples, the resultant consensus sequence was submitted to GenBank (KT580785). Sequence KT580785 was used in the phylogenetic analysis RESULTS Babesia annae DNA was detected in the fox samples, in total 46/316 (14.6%) of samples tested positive for the presence of Babesia annae DNA. The central region of England had the highest prevalence at 36.7%, while no positive samples were found from Wales, though only 12 samples were tested from this region. Male foxes were found to have a higher prevalence of Babesia annae DNA than females in all regions of Britain. Phylogenetic and sequence analysis of the GenBank submissions (Accession numbers KT580785 and KT580786) showed 100% identity to Babesia sp.-'Spanish Dog' (AY534602, EU583387 and AF188001). CONCLUSIONS This is the first time that Babesia annae DNA has been reported in red foxes in Great Britain with positive samples being found across England and Scotland indicating that this parasite is well established within the red fox population of Britain. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that though B. annae is closely related to B. microti it is a distinct species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Bartley
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.
| | - Clare Hamilton
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.
| | - Cari Wilson
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.
| | - Elisabeth A Innes
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.
| | - Frank Katzer
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.
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Denk D, Boufana B, Masters NJ, Stidworthy MF. Fatal echinococcosis in three lemurs in the United Kingdom--A case series. Vet Parasitol 2016; 218:10-4. [PMID: 26872922 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2015.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus reside in the small intestine of a number of carnivorous species, predominantly canids. In enzootic areas, hydatidosis caused by taeniid metacestodes can present a significant problem in accidental intermediate hosts, including humans. Whereas the United Kingdom is currently considered free of Echinococcus multilocularis, Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) and Echinococcus equinus are endemic in the UK and have been reported in a variety of captive mammals. The presentation of echinoccocosis in non-human primates widely parallels disease in humans, and public health concerns are related to the four genera, E. granulosus, E. multilocularis, Echinococcus vogeli and Echinococcus oligarthrus. In contrast, sporadic outbreaks and individual hydatid disease cases in non-human primates have been associated with several Echinococcus and Taenia species. Here we describe three fatal cases of cystic echinococcosis in two captive ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) and one captive red-ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata rubra) and provide molecular tapeworm characterisation. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this includes the first report of Echinococcus ortleppi in a UK born ring-tailed lemur and provides the first in depth case reports of echinococcosis due to E. equinus in UK born ring-tailed and red ruffed lemurs with detailed clinical and pathological findings. The cestode life cycle and implications for zoo collections are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Denk
- International Zoo Veterinary Group, Station House, Parkwood Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 4NQ, UK(1).
| | - Belgees Boufana
- Cestode Zoonoses Research Group, School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, UK(2)
| | - Nicholas J Masters
- International Zoo Veterinary Group, Station House, Parkwood Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 4NQ, UK(1)
| | - Mark F Stidworthy
- International Zoo Veterinary Group, Station House, Parkwood Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 4NQ, UK(1)
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9
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S. Peregrine
- Department of Pathobiology; Ontario Veterinary College; University of Guelph; Guelph Ontario N1G 2W1 Canada
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11
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Corsini M, Geissbühler U, Howard J, Gottstein B, Spreng D, Frey CF. Clinical presentation, diagnosis, therapy and outcome of alveolar echinococcosis in dogs. Vet Rec 2015; 177:569. [PMID: 26537856 DOI: 10.1136/vr.103470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Alveolar echinococcosis (AE), a parasitic disease primarily of the liver caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus multilocularis, is highly endemic in Switzerland. In contrast to well-established management protocols in people, little is known with regard to optimal treatment strategies in dogs. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical signs and diagnostic procedures in dogs with AE and to evaluate outcome following medical treatment alone or surgery and medical treatment. Of 23 putative AE cases between 2004 and 2014, 20 were classified as confirmed (n=18) or probable (n=2) AE, based on abdominal ultrasound, serology, cytology, histology and/or PCR. Most dogs presented with abdominal distension in an advanced stage of disease. Dogs receiving specific treatment (radical or debulking surgery together with medical treatment, or medical treatment alone) survived longer than dogs left untreated, but no difference was found between treatment types. Survival at one year was associated with absence of free abdominal fluid, absence of abdominal distension and treatment of any type. However, dogs treated with debulking surgery all faced relapse. Findings of this study suggest that in AE-affected dogs for which a therapeutic approach is regarded appropriate by owners and veterinarians, radical surgical resection and medical treatment or, if total resection is not possible, medical treatment alone should be considered. However, studies on larger numbers of dogs are necessary before definitive treatment recommendations can be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Corsini
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Clinic for Small Animals, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 128, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - U Geissbühler
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Clinical Radiology, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 128, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - J Howard
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 124, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - B Gottstein
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - D Spreng
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Clinic for Small Animals, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 128, Bern 3012, Switzerland
| | - C F Frey
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, Bern 3012, Switzerland
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12
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Atterby H, Allnutt TR, MacNicoll AD, Jones EP, Smith GC. Population genetic structure of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in the UK. MAMMAL RES 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-014-0209-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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13
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Fooks AR, Johnson N. Jet set pets: examining the zoonosis risk in animal import and travel across the European Union. VETERINARY MEDICINE (AUCKLAND, N.Z.) 2014; 6:17-25. [PMID: 30101093 PMCID: PMC6067792 DOI: 10.2147/vmrr.s62059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Ownership of companion animals or pets is popular throughout the world. Unfortunately, such animals are susceptible to and potential reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens. Close proximity to and contact with pets can lead to human infections. The distribution of zoonotic diseases associated with companion animals such as dogs and cats is not uniform around the world, and moving animals between regions, countries, and continents carries with it the risk of relocating the pathogens they might harbor. Critical among these zoonotic diseases are rabies, echinococcosis, and leishmania. In addition, the protozoan parasites, Toxoplasma gondii and Giardia duodenalis, are also significant agents for human disease of pet origin. Considerable effort is applied to controlling movements of companion animals, particularly dogs, into the European Union. However, free movement of people and their pets within the European Union is a risk factor for the translocation of diseases and their vectors. This review considers the current distribution of some of these diseases, the risks associated with pet travel, and the controls implemented within Europe to prevent the free movement of zoonotic pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony R Fooks
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, Surrey,
- Department of Clinical Infection, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Nicholas Johnson
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, Surrey,
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Tielemans E, Manavella C, Visser M, Theodore Chester S, Rosentel J. Efficacy in cats of a novel topical combination of fipronil, (S)-methoprene, eprinomectin, praziquantel, against induced infestations of Echinococcus multilocularis. Vet Parasitol 2014; 202:26-9. [PMID: 24703072 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Although foxes are the main reservoir of Echinococcus multilocularis, it is recognized that dogs and cats also may become infected. In cats the infection and egg production rates are usually low. Nevertheless, cats are a potential source of transmission of E. multilocularis. Due to the high human medical significance of E. multilocularis infection, it is important in endemic areas that owned cats are dewormed regularly. This paper presents the efficacy results of a new topical formulation, Broadline(®) (Merial) tested against E. multilocularis infection in cats. Two blinded laboratory studies were conducted to evaluate this novel topical combination of fipronil, (S)-methoprene, eprinomectin, and praziquantel against E. multilocularis. In each study, purpose-bred cats were assigned randomly to two treatment groups of 10 cats each: one untreated control group and one group treated at the minimum therapeutic dose of 0.12 mL/kg bodyweight to deliver 10mg fipronil, 12 mg (S)-methoprene, 0.5mg eprinomectin and 10mg praziquantel/kg bodyweight. The cats were inoculated orally with E. multilocularis protoscolices, 22 or 23 days before treatment. Based on necropsy and intestinal worm count, 8 or 11 days after treatment, the two studies confirmed 100% efficacy of Broadline(®) against adult E. multilocularis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Tielemans
- Merial SAS, Centre de Recherche de Saint-Vulbas, 01150 Saint-Vulbas, France.
| | - Coralie Manavella
- Merial SAS, Centre de Recherche de Saint-Vulbas, 01150 Saint-Vulbas, France
| | - Martin Visser
- Merial GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, 83101 Rohrdorf, Germany
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Scott DM, Berg MJ, Tolhurst BA, Chauvenet ALM, Smith GC, Neaves K, Lochhead J, Baker PJ. Changes in the distribution of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in urban areas in Great Britain: findings and limitations of a media-driven nationwide survey. PLoS One 2014; 9:e99059. [PMID: 24919063 PMCID: PMC4053368 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0099059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Urbanization is one of the major forms of habitat alteration occurring at the present time. Although this is typically deleterious to biodiversity, some species flourish within these human-modified landscapes, potentially leading to negative and/or positive interactions between people and wildlife. Hence, up-to-date assessment of urban wildlife populations is important for developing appropriate management strategies. Surveying urban wildlife is limited by land partition and private ownership, rendering many common survey techniques difficult. Garnering public involvement is one solution, but this method is constrained by the inherent biases of non-standardised survey effort associated with voluntary participation. We used a television-led media approach to solicit national participation in an online sightings survey to investigate changes in the distribution of urban foxes in Great Britain and to explore relationships between urban features and fox occurrence and sightings density. Our results show that media-based approaches can generate a large national database on the current distribution of a recognisable species. Fox distribution in England and Wales has changed markedly within the last 25 years, with sightings submitted from 91% of urban areas previously predicted to support few or no foxes. Data were highly skewed with 90% of urban areas having <30 fox sightings per 1000 people km(-2). The extent of total urban area was the only variable with a significant impact on both fox occurrence and sightings density in urban areas; longitude and percentage of public green urban space were respectively, significantly positively and negatively associated with sightings density only. Latitude, and distance to nearest neighbouring conurbation had no impact on either occurrence or sightings density. Given the limitations associated with this method, further investigations are needed to determine the association between sightings density and actual fox density, and variability of fox density within and between urban areas in Britain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn M. Scott
- Biology and Biomedical Sciences Division, University of Brighton, Brighton, East Sussex, United Kingdom
| | - Maureen J. Berg
- Biology and Biomedical Sciences Division, University of Brighton, Brighton, East Sussex, United Kingdom
| | - Bryony A. Tolhurst
- Biology and Biomedical Sciences Division, University of Brighton, Brighton, East Sussex, United Kingdom
| | - Alienor L. M. Chauvenet
- National Wildlife Management Centre, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency, York, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Graham C. Smith
- National Wildlife Management Centre, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency, York, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Philip J. Baker
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom
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16
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Øines Ø, Isaksson M, Hagström Å, Tavornpanich S, Davidson RK. Laboratory assessment of sensitive molecular tools for detection of low levels of Echinococcus multilocularis-eggs in fox (Vulpes vulpes) faeces. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:246. [PMID: 24885321 PMCID: PMC4060867 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-7-246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In endemic areas with very low infection prevalence, the frequency and intensity of Echinococcus multilocularis can be extremely low. This necessitates efficient, specific and sensitive molecular tools. We wanted to compare the existing molecular tools, used in the Norwegian national surveillance programme, and compare these with new techniques for detection of this zoonotic pathogen in fox faeces. Here we present the results of screening samples containing a known level of E. multilocularis eggs with two highly sensitive DNA isolation and extraction methods combined with one conventional PCR and three real-time PCR methods for detection. Methods We performed a comparison of two extraction protocols; one based on sieving of faecal material and one using targeted DNA sampling. Four methods of molecular detection were tested on E. multilocularis-egg spiked fox faeces. Results There were significant differences between the multiplex PCR/egg sieving DNA extraction methods compared to the new DNA fishing method and the three real-time PCR assays. Results also indicate that replicates of the PCR-reactions improve detection sensitivity when egg numbers are low. Conclusions The results indicate that the use of real-time PCR combined with targeted DNA extraction, improves the sensitivity of E. multilocularis detection in faecal samples containing low numbers of E. multilocularis eggs. Results also indicate the importance of replicates of the PCR-reactions when pathogen levels are low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Øivind Øines
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Post boks 750 Sentrum, 0106, Oslo, Norway.
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18
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Echinococcosis in wild carnivorous species: epidemiology, genotypic diversity, and implications for veterinary public health. Vet Parasitol 2014; 202:69-94. [PMID: 24698659 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Revised: 02/25/2014] [Accepted: 03/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Echinococcosis is a zoonosis caused by helminths of the genus Echinococcus. The infection, one of the 17 neglected tropical diseases listed by the World Health Organization, has a cosmopolitan distribution and can be transmitted through a variety of domestic, synanthropic, and sylvatic cycles. Wildlife has been increasingly regarded as a relevant source of infection to humans, as demonstrated by the fact that a significant proportion of human emerging infectious diseases have a wildlife origin. Based on available epidemiological and molecular evidence, of the nine Echinococcus species currently recognized as valid taxa, E. canadensis G8-G10, E. felidis, E. multilocularis, E. oligarthrus, E. shiquicus, and E. vogeli are primarily transmitted in the wild. E. canadensis G6-G7, E. equinus, E. granulosus s.s., and E. ortleppi are considered to be transmitted mainly through domestic cycles. We summarize here current knowledge on the global epidemiology, geographical distribution and genotype frequency of Echinococcus spp. in wild carnivorous species. Topics addressed include the significance of the wildlife/livestock/human interface, the sympatric occurrence of different Echinococcus species in a given epidemiological scenario, and the role of wildlife as natural reservoir of disease to human and domestic animal populations. We have also discussed the impact that human activity and intervention may cause in the transmission dynamics of echinococcosis, including the human population expansion an encroachment on shrinking natural habitats, the increasing urbanization of wildlife carnivorous species and the related establishment of synanthropic cycles of Echinococcus spp., the land use (e.g. deforestation and agricultural practices), and the unsupervised international trade and translocation of wildlife animals. Following the 'One Health' approach, we have also emphasized that successful veterinary public health interventions in the field of echinococcosis requires an holistic approach to integrate current knowledge on human medicine, veterinary medicine and environmental sciences.
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Carmena D, Cardona GA. Canine echinococcosis: global epidemiology and genotypic diversity. Acta Trop 2013; 128:441-60. [PMID: 23954494 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2013.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2013] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Canine echinococcosis is a potential zoonotic infection caused by the adult form of several cestode species belonging to the genus Echinococcus, of which E. granulosus sensu lato and E. multilocularis are the most epidemiologically relevant. Dogs infected with E. granulosus and E. multilocularis are widely regarded as the main source of infection for human cystic and alveolar echinococcosis, diseases that cause substantial morbidity and socio-economic burden in several regions of the world. Following our previous review on the global situation of cystic echinococcosis in livestock species (Cardona and Carmena. Vet. Parasitol. 2013;192:10-32), we summarize here current knowledge on the global epidemiology, geographical distribution and molecular diversity of Echinococcus spp. infection in dogs. We address relevant topics including the implications of the increasing urbanization of wildlife species such as foxes, coyotes, and dingoes in the establishment of urban cycles of Echinococcus spp., or the rising concerns regarding the role of unsupervised translocation of infected dogs in spreading the infection to Echinococcus-free areas. The involvement of wildlife species as natural reservoirs of disease to domestic animals and humans and the epidemiological significance of the sympatric occurrence of different Echinococcus species in the same geographical region are also debated. Data presented are expected to be useful for policy makers, educational and health authorities responsible for designing and implementing effective measures for disease control and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Carmena
- Servicio de Parasitología, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
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