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Bergholm J, Tessema TS, Blomström AL, Berg M. Detection and molecular characterization of major enteric pathogens in calves in central Ethiopia. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:389. [PMID: 39227796 PMCID: PMC11373192 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04258-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calf diarrhea is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the livestock sector worldwide and it can be caused by multiple infectious agents. In Ethiopia, cattle are the most economically important species within the livestock sector, but at the same time the young animals suffer from high rates of morbidity and mortality due to calf diarrhea. However, studies including both screening and molecular characterization of bovine enteric pathogens are lacking. Therefore, we aimed to both detect and molecularly characterize four of the major enteric pathogens in calf diarrhea, Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (E. coli K99 +), Cryptosporidium spp., rotavirus A (RVA), and bovine coronavirus (BCoV) in calves from central Ethiopia. Diarrheic and non-diarrheic calves were included in the study and fecal samples were analyzed with antigen-ELISA and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Positive samples were further characterized by genotyping PCRs. RESULTS All four pathogens were detected in both diarrheic and non-diarrheic calves using qPCR and further characterization showed the presence of three Cryptosporidium species, C. andersoni, C. bovis and C. ryanae. Furthermore, genotyping of RVA-positive samples found a common bovine genotype G10P[11], as well as a more unusual G-type, G24. To our knowledge this is the first detection of the G24 RVA genotype in Ethiopia as well as in Africa. Lastly, investigation of the spike gene revealed two distinct BCoV strains, one classical BCoV strain and one bovine-like CoV strain. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that Cryptosporidium spp., E. coli K99 + , RVA and BCoV circulate in calves from central Ethiopia. Furthermore, our findings of the rare RVA G-type G24 and a bovine-like CoV demonstrates the importance of genetic characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Bergholm
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | | | - Anne-Lie Blomström
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mikael Berg
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Kaduková M, Schreiberová A, Mudroň P, Tóthová C, Gomulec P, Štrkolcová G. Cryptosporidium Infections in Neonatal Calves on a Dairy Farm. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1416. [PMID: 39065184 PMCID: PMC11279349 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12071416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted with the aim of the molecular identification of the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium spp. in calves in the early stage of their development on a dairy farm in Eastern Slovakia. Twenty-five Holstein and Holstein cross calves were included in the study and monitored from their birth to the fifth week of life (1-5 weeks). Fresh fecal samples were collected from the same group of calves each week, except during the fourth week, and with the exception of Sample 8. All samples were analyzed using the Ziehl-Neelsen staining method and coproantigen was tested using the ELISA test as the screening method. Using the ELISA method, the highest incidence of cryptosporidiosis was observed in the second week of life of the calves, while the antigen was detected in 21 (91.6%) calves. Using the Ziehl-Neelsen staining method, the highest incidence was also observed in the second week, with an incidence rate of 62.5%. Positive isolates confirmed by the ELISA test were molecularly characterized. The species and subtypes of Cryptosporidium in the positive isolates were identified using PCR and the sequence analysis of the small subunit of the ribosomal 18S RNA (ssu rRNA) and the 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) genes of the parasite. The sequence analysis of 29 isolates at the 18S rRNA loci confirmed the presence of two species-Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium ryanae. Out of 29 isolates, 25 were assigned to the species C. parvum, with the gp60 locus identified as genotype IIaA17G1R1. Among the individual animal groups, calves are the most common reservoirs of the C. parvum zoonotic species. This disease has significant public health implications as contact with livestock and their feces and working with barn manure are major sources of infection, not only for other animals but also for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Kaduková
- Department of Epizootiology, Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Komenského 73, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia; (M.K.); (G.Š.)
| | - Andrea Schreiberová
- Department of Epizootiology, Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Komenského 73, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia; (M.K.); (G.Š.)
| | - Pavol Mudroň
- Clinic of Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Komenského 73, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia; (P.M.); (C.T.); (P.G.)
| | - Csilla Tóthová
- Clinic of Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Komenského 73, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia; (P.M.); (C.T.); (P.G.)
| | - Pavel Gomulec
- Clinic of Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Komenského 73, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia; (P.M.); (C.T.); (P.G.)
| | - Gabriela Štrkolcová
- Department of Epizootiology, Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Komenského 73, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia; (M.K.); (G.Š.)
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Golomazou E, Mamedova S, Eslahi AV, Karanis P. Cryptosporidium and agriculture: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:170057. [PMID: 38242460 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is a significant contributor to global foodborne and waterborne disease burden. It is a widespread cause of diarrheal diseases that affect humans and animals worldwide. Agricultural environments can become a source of contamination with Cryptosporidium species through faecal material derived from humans and animals. This review aims to report the main findings of scientific research on Cryptosporidium species related to various agricultural sectors, and highlights the risks of cryptosporidiosis in agricultural production, the contamination sources, the importance of animal production in transmission, and the role of farmed animals as hosts of the parasites. Agricultural contamination sources can cause water pollution in groundwater and different surface waters used for drinking, recreational purposes, and irrigation. The application of contaminated manure, faecal sludge management, and irrigation with inadequately treated water are the main concerns associated with foodborne and waterborne cryptosporidiosis related to agricultural activities. The review emphasizes the public health implications of agriculture concerning the transmission risk of Cryptosporidium parasites and the urgent need for a new concept in the agriculture sector. Furthermore, the findings of this review provide valuable information for developing appropriate measures and monitoring strategies to minimize the risk of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Golomazou
- Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment - Aquaculture Laboratory, School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Thessaly, Fytokou str., 38446 Volos, Greece
| | - Simuzer Mamedova
- Institute of Zoology, Ministry of Science and Education Republic of Azerbaijan, Baku, Azerbaijan & Department of Life Sciences, Khazar University, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | - Aida Vafae Eslahi
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- University of Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, 50931 Cologne, Germany; University of Nicosia Medical School, Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, Anatomy Centre, 2408 Nicosia, Cyprus.
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Rzeżutka A, Kaupke A. Cryptosporidium infections in asymptomatic calves up to 4 months in Poland: a cross-sectional population study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20997. [PMID: 38017032 PMCID: PMC10684609 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47810-5] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cattle cryptosporidiosis is noted worldwide with varied frequency of infection prevalence depending on geographical, environmental and husbandry factors. In this study, the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infections in cattle was determined on the basis of molecular results obtained by testing 1601 faecal samples collected from calves up to 4 months of age housed in all Polish provinces from 2014 to 2018. Detection and identification of Cryptosporidium species was performed at the 18 small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) locus by conducting PCR-RFLP analysis of the amplified DNA fragments. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infections in the cattle population was 45.3% (CI 95%: 42.8-47.7; 725/1601). The infected animals were housed on 233/267 (87.3%) of monitored farms with regional prevalence ranging from 27.8 to 62%. The restriction pattern of 18S rRNA amplicons for positive samples was characteristic of C. parvum, C. bovis, C. ryanae, C. andersoni, and unexpectedly also of C. baileyi and C. suis. Infections of C. bovis and C. ryanae prevailed in the studied cattle population relegating C. parvum to third in prevalence. Likewise, mixed infections caused by C. bovis and C. ryanae as well as C. parvum and C. bovis were observed. A relationship between the infecting parasite species and animal breed was found. For instance, C. parvum prevailed in Black and White lowland breed, C. ryanae in Limousine cattle and C. andersoni in dairy animals of mixed dairy breeds. Furthermore, differences in prevalence of particular parasite species between cattle breeds were also shown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Rzeżutka
- Department of Food and Environmental Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100, Puławy, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Kaupke
- Department of Food and Environmental Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100, Puławy, Poland
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Bauer J, Kaske M, Oehm A, Schnyder M. Dynamics of protozoal excretion in the faeces of calves during the first 28 days after arrival at the fattening farm indicate infection before regrouping and show poor temporal correlation with diarrhoea. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:338. [PMID: 37759304 PMCID: PMC10523781 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05911-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calves in dairy cattle production in Switzerland are transported to a fattening farm at the age of 3-5 weeks, and frequently suffer from diarrhoea within the first 14 days after arrival. To characterise the role of intestinal protozoa in this, we investigated the excretion dynamics of Eimeria, Cryptosporidium and Giardia during the first 28 days after the arrival and regrouping of calves at fattening farms. METHODS A total of 610 faecal samples from 122 calves (mean age 37.3 days; mean body weight 79.8 kg) were collected on seven different fattening farms during the first 28 days after the arrival and regrouping of the animals. The farms were visited between January and April (cold season; n = 4) and between June and August (warm season; n = 3). The samples were collected rectally on days 1, 4, 7, 14 and 28, assessed for consistency, and analysed using the McMaster method for quantitative determination of the number of Eimeria oocysts per gram of faeces (OPG), flotation for morphological differentiation of the unsporulated Eimeria oocysts, a concentration method for the semi-quantitative determination of Giardia cysts, and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining for semi-quantitative determination of Cryptosporidium oocysts. RESULTS Overall, 50.8% (62/122) of the animals had diarrhoea during the study period. However, the faecal excretion of protozoal pathogens was neither associated with diarrhoea nor with body weight gain of the animals. Altogether, 90.2% (110/122) of the calves were Eimeria positive. Eimeria zuernii was excreted by 51 (41.8%) and Eimeria bovis by 68 (55.7%) animals. In the warm season more animals tested positive for Eimeria and OPGs were higher than in the cold season. There was no correlation between the age of the calves and the OPG values. Overall, 64.8% (79/122) of the calves excreted Eimeria oocysts within the first 7 days, indicating that they had been infected with the parasite on the dairy farm of origin. Eighty-nine calves (73.0%) excreted Giardia cysts, with more positive animals in the cold (80.3%) compared with the warm season (64.3%). Only Giardia duodenalis assemblage E was identified. Cryptosporidium oocysts were microscopically detected in 14 animals (11.5%) on five farms. Cryptosporidium spp. were present in a total of 12 animals, i.e. Cryptosporidium parvum in nine, Cryptosporidium ryanae in two, and Cryptosporidium bovis in one animal. CONCLUSIONS A better understanding of the temporal dynamics of protozoal infections in calves is helpful for the implementation of appropriate measures to protect the health of these animals at a critical phase in their lives. Our results indicate that factors other than those examined in the present study contributed to the onset of diarrhoea in the calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Bauer
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266A, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Kaske
- Swiss Calf Health Service, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Oehm
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266A, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266A, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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Jang DH, Cho HC, Park YJ, Park J, Choi KS. First report of Cryptosporidium andersoni and risk factors associated with the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in pre-weaned native Korean calves with diarrhea. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1145096. [PMID: 37026096 PMCID: PMC10070877 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1145096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. are important enteric protozoan parasites that infect humans and other animals throughout the world. Cryptosporidium infection in cattle industry leads to substantial economic losses due to diarrhea, growth retardation, weight loss, and possibly death. Most studies have focused on C. parvum, and studies on other Cryptosporidium spp. and calf diarrhea are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in pre-weaned calves, to determine the risk factors for Cryptosporidium spp. infection such as age and season, and to identify subtypes of C. parvum circulating in the Republic of Korea (ROK). A total of 510 fecal samples were collected from calves with diarrhea and divided by age and season. Cryptosporidium spp. were first screened using PCR targeting the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene and further the 60-kDa glycoprotein gene for subtyping of C. parvum. Out of 510 fecal samples, 71 (13.9%) were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. in pre-weaned calves with diarrhea. C. andersoni (2.8%), C. bovis (30.9%), C. parvum (29.6%), and C. ryanae (36.6%) were identified. C. ryanae was the most predominant in calves in the ROK. Calf age was a significant risk factor for C. bovis (χ2 = 13.83, P = 0.001), C. parvum (χ2 = 7.57, P = 0.023), and C. ryanae (χ2 = 20.18, P = 0.000) occurrence. Additionally, C. parvum was detected 3.1-fold more frequently in pre-weaned calves with diarrhea in fall (95% CI: 1.23-7.81; P = 0.016) than in spring, whereas C. ryanae was 8.9-fold more frequently detected in summer (95% CI: 1.65-48.68; P = 0.011) than in spring. Three subtypes (IIaA17G4R1, IIaA18G3R1, and IIaA20G3R1) of C. parvum were identified. Of them, IIaA17G4R1 was the most common, whereas IIaA20G3R1 was not previously detected in calves in the ROK. To our knowledge, this is the first report of C. andersoni in pre-weaned calves in the ROK. The occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. appears to be age-dependent in calves. Season had a significant effect on the occurrence of C. parvum and C. ryanae. Taken together, C. bovis and C. ryanae along with C. parvum are detected in pre-weaned calves with diarrhea and these two pathogens should not be overlooked in the diagnosis of calf diarrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Hun Jang
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Chul Cho
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Jin Park
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinho Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Seong Choi
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, College of Ecology and Environmental Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Kyoung-Seong Choi
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Abdou NEMI, AlAzemi MS, Al-Sayegh MT, Majeed QAH. Performance of diagnostic assays used to detect Cryptosporidium oocysts in faecal samples of cattle in Kuwait and genotyping of Cryptosporidium species. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:336. [PMID: 36071437 PMCID: PMC9449277 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03435-w] [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: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgroud Cryptosporidium species are zoonotic protozoan parasites responsible for gastroenteritis in various animals and humans. The diagnosis of Cryptosporidium presents many challenges. This research attempted to match the diagnostic efficiency of the modified Ziehl–Neelsen technique (mZN), immunochromatographic assays (IC), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of Cryptosporidium in faecal samples of cattle in Kuwait. In addition, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was utilised to determine the predominant species infecting cattle in Kuwait and correlating the detected species with the results of different diagnostic tests used, the presence or absence of clinical signs, and the age group of the infected cattle. Results Of 400 analysed faecal samples, Cryptosporidium positive samples were 23%, 15.25%, and 14% using IC, ELISA, and mZN. IC had the highest sensitivity (74.07%), and mZN had the highest specificity (98.29%) using a composite reference standard (CRS) as a gold standard. The rapid IC test results in high false-positive results of cryptosporidiosis, whereas using mZN alone is insufficient to declare a negative faecal sample. Only 74.5% (35/47) of Cryptosporidium-positive samples by the three assays could be amplified by PCR. This study was the first to genotype Cryptosporidium in Kuwait. Cryptosporidium parvum (n = 26) was the dominant species detected from cattle samples, followed by C. andersoni (n = 6), C. bovis (n = 2), and C. raynae (n = 1). The findings showed a statistically relevant relationship between diarrhoea and the detection of Cryptosporidium spp. in faecal samples of cattle (p-value = 0.0003). Pre-weaned calves were the most vulnerable age group to Cryptosporidium spp. infection (p-value = 0.0007). Conclusion For screening of Cryptosporidium infection in faecal samples, antigen detection or PCR methods combined with one of the microscopy techniques should be used. Cryptosporidium parvum was the prepoderant Cryptosporidium spp. recovered from cattle samples in Kuwait followed by C. andersoni. Cryptosporidium parvum is a significant risk factor for diarrhoea in pre-weaned calves. However, further study is needed as many other causes of diarrhoea in calves must be ruled out before a diagnosis of Cryptosporidium diarrhoea can be made. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-022-03435-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadra-Elwgoud M I Abdou
- GCC-Early Warning Center, PAAFR, Postal code, 1307, Rabyia, Kuwait. .,Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Post code 12211, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Maha S AlAzemi
- Department of Science, College of Basic Education, PAAET, Post code 23167, Aridyia, Kuwait
| | - Mohammed T Al-Sayegh
- Department of Science, College of Basic Education, PAAET, Post code 23167, Aridyia, Kuwait
| | - Qais A H Majeed
- Department of Science, College of Basic Education, PAAET, Post code 23167, Aridyia, Kuwait
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Majeed QAH, AlAzemi MS, Al-Sayegh MT, Abdou NEMI. Epidemiological and Molecular Study of Cryptosporidium in Preweaned Calves in Kuwait. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1805. [PMID: 35883352 PMCID: PMC9312042 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a worldwide enteric protozoan parasite that causes gastrointestinal infection in animals, including humans. The most notable species is Cryptosporidium parvum because of its zoonotic importance; it is also the leading cause of cryptosporidiosis in preweaned calves. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection, investigate the potential risk factors, and use molecular diagnosis to identify the predominant Cryptosporidium spp. in preweaned calves in Kuwait. Of 175 preweaned calves, Cryptosporidium antigens were detected in 58 (33.1%) using rapid lateral immunochromatography assay (IC). Calves less than one month of age (OR = 4.32, p = 0.0001) and poor hygiene (OR = 2.85, p = 0.0075) were identified as significant risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium infection. Molecular identification revealed that C. parvum (62.8%) was the dominant species infecting preweaned calves in Kuwait. In contrast, C. bovis and C. andersoni were recorded at 5.7% and 2.9%, respectively. All C. parvum gp60 nucleotide sequences were subtype IIaA15G2R1. Calves could be a source of C. parvum infection due to the similarity of the subtypes recorded previously in Kuwaiti children and preweaned calves in this study. Therefore, more research is needed to understand the Cryptosporidium transmission cycle in Kuwait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qais A. H. Majeed
- Department Science, College of Basic Education, PAAET, Aridyia, Farwanyia 23167, Kuwait; (M.S.A.); (M.T.A.-S.)
| | - Maha S. AlAzemi
- Department Science, College of Basic Education, PAAET, Aridyia, Farwanyia 23167, Kuwait; (M.S.A.); (M.T.A.-S.)
| | - Mohammed T. Al-Sayegh
- Department Science, College of Basic Education, PAAET, Aridyia, Farwanyia 23167, Kuwait; (M.S.A.); (M.T.A.-S.)
| | - Nadra-Elwgoud M. I. Abdou
- Early Warning Center for Transboundary Animal Diseases-Gulf Cooperation Council, PAAFR, 1307 Safat, Rabyia, Farwanyia 21422, Kuwait
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza 12211, Egypt
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Deksne G, Mateusa M, Cvetkova S, Derbakova A, Keidāne D, Troell K, Schares G. Prevalence, risk factor and diversity of Cryptosporidium in cattle in Latvia. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 28:100677. [PMID: 35115117 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The epidemiology of Cryptosporidium spp. in Latvia was investigated by testing fecal samples from 926 animals aged from one day to 24 years for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts. The samples were collected from 87 cattle farms and from four slaughterhouses, and analyzed by conventional and fluorescent microscopy, followed by Cryptosporidium species and C. parvum subtype differentiation. Moreover, using a questionnaire, we surveyed factors that could be relevant as risk factors of Cryptosporidium spp. infection on the farms. Cryptosporidium spp. were shed by 33.8% of the investigated cattle and at least one shedding animal was found on 77.8% of the farms. In the present study, all four Cryptosporidium species reported to commonly infect cattle and two additional Cryptosporidium species (C. scrofarum and C. ubiquitum) were identified. In addition, mix infections of C. parvum/C. bovis, C. bovis/C. ryanae, C. parvum/C. ryanae, C. parvum/C. andersoni and C. bovis/C. andersoni were observed. C. parvum and C. bovis was mostly prevalent in young animals (0-3 months old) and in addition, diarrhea associated with C. parvum infection was observed only in very young animals. Cryptosporidium andersoni and C. ryanae in age group 0-3 months was observed in low prevalence, while a higher proportion of animals with diarrhea associated with C. andersoni infection was observed in very young animals and with C. ryanae in animals age group 4-24 months. Eight previously described C. parvum subtypes were observed. The majority of the subtypes were in the IIa subtype family, while one subtype was identified from the IId subtype family. The most common subtype was IIaA15G2R1, which was found in 34.2% of the C. parvum successfully subtyped samples. The probability of Cryptosporidium spp. associated diarrhea in cattle decreased significantly with the age of the animals and a prolonged period during which calves were fed with milk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunita Deksne
- Institute of Food safety, Animal health and Environment "BIOR", Lejupes Str. 3, Riga LV-1076, Latvia; Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Jelgavas Str. 1, Riga LV-1004, Latvia.
| | - Maira Mateusa
- Institute of Food safety, Animal health and Environment "BIOR", Lejupes Str. 3, Riga LV-1076, Latvia; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life sciences and Technologies, K. Helmaņa Str. 8, Jelgava LV-3004, Latvia.
| | - Svetlana Cvetkova
- Institute of Food safety, Animal health and Environment "BIOR", Lejupes Str. 3, Riga LV-1076, Latvia.
| | - Alīna Derbakova
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life sciences and Technologies, K. Helmaņa Str. 8, Jelgava LV-3004, Latvia
| | - Dace Keidāne
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life sciences and Technologies, K. Helmaņa Str. 8, Jelgava LV-3004, Latvia.
| | - Karin Troell
- National Veterinary Institute, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Gereon Schares
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.
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Pinto P, Ribeiro CA, Hoque S, Hammouma O, Leruste H, Détriché S, Canniere E, Daandels Y, Dellevoet M, Roemen J, Barbier Bourgeois A, Kváč M, Follet J, Tsaousis AD. Cross-Border Investigations on the Prevalence and Transmission Dynamics of Cryptosporidium Species in Dairy Cattle Farms in Western Mainland Europe. Microorganisms 2021; 9:2394. [PMID: 34835519 PMCID: PMC8617893 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9112394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an apicomplexan parasitic protist, which infects a wide range of hosts, causing cryptosporidiosis disease. In farms, the incidence of this disease is high in animals such as cows, leading to extensive economic loss in the livestock industry. Infected cows may also act as a major reservoir of Cryptosporidium spp., in particular C. parvum, the most common cause of cryptosporidiosis in these animals. This poses a risk to the trading of livestock, to other farms via breeding centres, and to human health. This study is a part of a global project aimed at strategies to tackle cryptosporidiosis. To reach this target, it was essential to determine whether prevalence was dependent on the studied countries or if the issue was borderless. Indeed, C. parvum occurrence was assessed across dairy farms in certain regions of Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. At the same time, the animal-to-animal transmission of the circulating C. parvum subtypes was studied. To accomplish this, we analysed 1084 faecal samples, corresponding to 57 dairy farms from all three countries. To this end, 18S rRNA and gp60 genes fragments were amplified, followed by DNA sequencing, which was subsequently used for detection and subtyping C. parvum. Bioinformatic and phylogenetic methods were integrated to analyse and characterise the obtained DNA sequences. Our results show 25.7%, 24.9% and 20.8% prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands respectively. Overall, 93% of the farms were Cryptosporidium positive. The gp60 subtyping demonstrated a significant number of the C. parvum positives belonged to the IIa allelic family, which has been also identified in humans. Therefore, this study highlights how prevalent C. parvum is in dairy farms and further suggests cattle as a possible carrier of zoonotic C. parvum subtypes, which could pose a threat to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Pinto
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, UK; (P.P.); (C.A.R.); (S.H.)
| | - Cláudia A. Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, UK; (P.P.); (C.A.R.); (S.H.)
| | - Sumaiya Hoque
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, UK; (P.P.); (C.A.R.); (S.H.)
| | - Ourida Hammouma
- UMR-Transfrontalière 1158 BioEcoAgro, Junia, University of Lille, University of Liège, UPJV, ULCO, University of Artois, INRAE, F-59000 Lille, France;
| | - Hélène Leruste
- Junia, Comportement Animal et Systèmes d’Elevage, F-59000 Lille, France;
| | - Sébastien Détriché
- University of Lille, Institut Mines-Télécom, University of Artois, Junia, ULR 4515—LGCgE, Laboratoire de Génie Civil et Géo-Environnement, F-59000 Lille, France;
| | - Evi Canniere
- Inagro vzw, Ieperseweg 87, 8800 Rumbeke-Beitem, Belgium;
| | - Yvonne Daandels
- Southern Agricultural and Horticultural Organisation (ZLTO), Onderwijsboulevard 225, 5223 DE’s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands; (Y.D.); (M.D.); (J.R.)
| | - Martine Dellevoet
- Southern Agricultural and Horticultural Organisation (ZLTO), Onderwijsboulevard 225, 5223 DE’s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands; (Y.D.); (M.D.); (J.R.)
| | - Janine Roemen
- Southern Agricultural and Horticultural Organisation (ZLTO), Onderwijsboulevard 225, 5223 DE’s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands; (Y.D.); (M.D.); (J.R.)
| | | | - Martin Kváč
- Biology Centre of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Institute of Parasitology, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic;
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jérôme Follet
- University of Lille, CNRS, Centrale Lille, Junia, University Polytechnique Hauts de France, UMR 8520 IEMN Institut d’Electronique de Microélectronique et de Nanotechnologie, F 59000 Lille, France;
| | - Anastasios D. Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, UK; (P.P.); (C.A.R.); (S.H.)
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11
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Wang W, Wan M, Yang F, Li N, Xiao L, Feng Y, Guo Y. Development and Application of a gp60-Based Subtyping Tool for Cryptosporidium bovis. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9102067. [PMID: 34683387 PMCID: PMC8539439 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium bovis is a common enteric pathogen in bovine animals. The research on transmission characteristics of the pathogen is hampered by the lack of subtyping tools. In this study, we retrieve the nucleotide sequence of the 60 kDa glycoprotein (GP60) from the whole genome sequences of C. bovis we obtained previously and analyze its sequence characteristics. Despite a typical structure of the GP60 protein, the GP60 of C. bovis had only 19.3–45.3% sequence identity to those of other Cryptosporidium species. On the basis of the gene sequence, a subtype typing tool was developed for C. bovis and used in the analysis of 486 C. bovis samples from dairy cattle, yaks, beef cattle, and water buffalos from China. Sixty-eight sequence types were identified from 260 subtyped samples, forming six subtype families, namely XXVIa to XXVIf. The mosaic sequence patterns among subtype families and the 121 potential recombination events identified among the sequences both suggest the occurrence of genetic recombination at the locus. No obvious host adaptation and geographic differences in the distribution of subtype families were observed. Most farms with more extensive sampling had more than one subtype family, and the dominant subtype families on a farm appeared to differ between pre- and post-weaned calves, indicating the likely occurrence of multiple episodes of C. bovis infections. There was an association between XXVId infection and occurrence of moderate diarrhea in dairy cattle. The subtyping tool developed and the data generated in the study might improve our knowledge of the genetic diversity and transmission of C. bovis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijian Wang
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; (W.W.); (M.W.); (F.Y.); (N.L.); (L.X.)
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Muchun Wan
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; (W.W.); (M.W.); (F.Y.); (N.L.); (L.X.)
| | - Fang Yang
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; (W.W.); (M.W.); (F.Y.); (N.L.); (L.X.)
| | - Na Li
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; (W.W.); (M.W.); (F.Y.); (N.L.); (L.X.)
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; (W.W.); (M.W.); (F.Y.); (N.L.); (L.X.)
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; (W.W.); (M.W.); (F.Y.); (N.L.); (L.X.)
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (Y.F.); (Y.G.)
| | - Yaqiong Guo
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; (W.W.); (M.W.); (F.Y.); (N.L.); (L.X.)
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (Y.F.); (Y.G.)
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12
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Yanta CA, Bessonov K, Robinson G, Troell K, Guy RA. CryptoGenotyper: A new bioinformatics tool for rapid Cryptosporidium identification. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2021; 23:e00115. [PMID: 33748443 PMCID: PMC7966988 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2021.e00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite that is transmitted to both humans and animals through zoonotic or anthroponotic means. When a host is infected with this parasite, it causes a gastrointestinal disease known as cryptosporidiosis. To understand the transmission dynamics of Cryptosporidium, the small subunit (SSU or 18S) rRNA and gp60 genes are commonly studied through PCR analysis and conventional Sanger sequencing. However, analyzing sequence chromatograms manually is both time consuming and prone to human error, especially in the presence of poorly resolved, heterozygous peaks and the absence of a validated database. For this study, we developed a Cryptosporidium genotyping tool, called CryptoGenotyper, which has the capability to read raw Sanger sequencing data for the two common Cryptosporidium gene targets (SSU rRNA and gp60) and classify the sequence data into standard nomenclature. The CryptoGenotyper has the capacity to perform quality control and properly classify sequences using a high quality, manually curated reference database, saving users' time and removing bias during data analysis. The incorporated heterozygous base calling algorithms for the SSU rRNA gene target resolves double peaks, therefore recovering data previously classified as inconclusive. The CryptoGenotyper successfully genotyped 99.3% (428/431) and 95.1% (154/162) of SSU rRNA chromatograms containing single and mixed sequences, respectively, and correctly subtyped 95.6% (947/991) of gp60 chromatograms without manual intervention. This new, user-friendly tool can provide both fast and reproducible analyses of Sanger sequencing data for the two most common Cryptosporidium gene targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine A Yanta
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 110 Stone Road West, Guelph, ON N1G 3W4, Canada
| | - Kyrylo Bessonov
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 110 Stone Road West, Guelph, ON N1G 3W4, Canada
| | - Guy Robinson
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Microbiology and Health Protection, Singleton Hospital, Swansea SA2 8QA, UK.,Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Karin Troell
- National Veterinary Institute, 751 89 Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Rebecca A Guy
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 110 Stone Road West, Guelph, ON N1G 3W4, Canada
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13
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Díaz P, Navarro E, Remesar S, García-Dios D, Martínez-Calabuig N, Prieto A, López-Lorenzo G, López CM, Panadero R, Fernández G, Díez-Baños P, Morrondo P. The Age-Related Cryptosporidium Species Distribution in Asymptomatic Cattle from North-Western SPAIN. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020256. [PMID: 33498538 PMCID: PMC7909547 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary An age-related distribution of Cryptosporidium species has been reported in cattle, with the pathogenic and zoonotic C. parvum being predominant in suckling calves, C. bovis and C. ryanae being predominant in post-weaned calves and C. andersoni being predominant in adults. However, variants to this pattern have recently been reported. Unravelling the age-related species distribution pattern in cattle from a particular region will allow determining those age classes posing a higher risk to public and animal health. Thus, fecal samples from asymptomatic cattle were collected in north-western Spain. Cryptosporidium detection and species identification was performed by molecular methods. Cryptosporidium prevalence was 16.7%; it significantly decreased with age. Cryptosporidium andersoni, C. bovis, C. occultus, C. parvum, C. ryanae and C. xiaoi were identified. Cryptosporidium parvum was predominant in calves younger than 1 month and C. bovis was predominant in the rest of the age groups. The presence of C. parvum in all age groups implies animal and public health concerns. The predominance of C. bovis in cattle older than 1 month supports the idea that the age-related pattern of Cryptosporidium species described in cattle is not fully consistent, and thus further studies are needed to identify those factors determining the species distribution. Abstract An age-related distribution of Cryptosporidium species has been reported in cattle, with C. parvum being predominant in suckling calves, C. bovis and C. ryanae being predominant in post-weaned calves and C. andersoni being predominant in adults. However, variants to this pattern have recently been reported. Thus, fecal samples (n = 594) from asymptomatic cattle were collected in north-western Spain. Animals were classified as <1 month (G1), 1–2 months (G2), 2–12 months (G3), 12–24 months (G4) and >2 years (G5). Cryptosporidium detection and species identification were performed by SSU rRNA PCR. Individual Cryptosporidium prevalence was 16.7%; it significantly decreased with age. Cryptosporidium parvum was predominant in G1 and C. bovis was predominant in the rest of the age classes; C. bovis and C. ryanae were especially prevalent in G2 and G3. Cryptosporidium occultus was not found in suckling calves. Finally, C. andersoni and C. xiaoi were occasionally detected in G5. The presence of C. parvum in all age classes implies significant animal and public health concerns. The predominance of C. bovis in cattle older than 1 month supports the idea that the age-related pattern of Cryptosporidium species described in cattle is not fully consistent, and thus further studies are still needed to identify those factors determining the species distribution.
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14
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Lichtmannsperger K, Harl J, Freudenthaler K, Hinney B, Wittek T, Joachim A. Cryptosporidium parvum, Cryptosporidium ryanae, and Cryptosporidium bovis in samples from calves in Austria. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:4291-4295. [PMID: 33057813 PMCID: PMC7704486 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06928-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
Fecal samples of 177 calves of up to 180 days of age with diarrhea from 70 farms in Austria were examined to obtain information on the occurrence of Cryptosporidium species. Initially, all samples were examined by phase-contrast microscopy. Cryptosporidium-positive samples (55.4%; n = 98) were screened by gp60 PCR, resulting in 68.4% (n = 67) C. parvum-positive samples. The remaining 31 gp60-PCR-negative and the phase-contrast microscopy negative samples (n = 79) were screened by PCR targeting a 700 bp fragment of the 18S rRNA gene. Sequencing of the PCR products revealed the presence of C. parvum (n = 69), C. ryanae (n = 11), and C. bovis (n = 7). The latter two species have never been described in Austria. C. parvum-positive samples were genotyped at the gp60 gene locus, featuring four subtypes (IIaA15G2R1, IIaA21G2R1, IIaA19G2R1, IIaA14G1R1). The most frequently detected subtype IIaA15G2R1 (n = 52) was present in calves from 30 different farms. IIaA14G1R1 (n = 5) occurred on a single farm, subtype IIaA21G2R1 (n = 4) on two farms, and subtype IIaA19G2R1 (n = 4) on three farms. The results confirm the widespread occurrence of zoonotic C. parvum in diarrheic calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Lichtmannsperger
- University Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Wien, Austria.
| | - Josef Harl
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Katharina Freudenthaler
- University Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Barbara Hinney
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Thomas Wittek
- University Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Wien, Austria
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