1
|
Barratclough A, Ferguson SH, Lydersen C, Thomas PO, Kovacs KM. A Review of Circumpolar Arctic Marine Mammal Health-A Call to Action in a Time of Rapid Environmental Change. Pathogens 2023; 12:937. [PMID: 37513784 PMCID: PMC10385039 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12070937] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The impacts of climate change on the health of marine mammals are increasingly being recognised. Given the rapid rate of environmental change in the Arctic, the potential ramifications on the health of marine mammals in this region are a particular concern. There are eleven endemic Arctic marine mammal species (AMMs) comprising three cetaceans, seven pinnipeds, and the polar bear (Ursus maritimus). All of these species are dependent on sea ice for survival, particularly those requiring ice for breeding. As air and water temperatures increase, additional species previously non-resident in Arctic waters are extending their ranges northward, leading to greater species overlaps and a concomitant increased risk of disease transmission. In this study, we review the literature documenting disease presence in Arctic marine mammals to understand the current causes of morbidity and mortality in these species and forecast future disease issues. Our review highlights potential pathogen occurrence in a changing Arctic environment, discussing surveillance methods for 35 specific pathogens, identifying risk factors associated with these diseases, as well as making recommendations for future monitoring for emerging pathogens. Several of the pathogens discussed have the potential to cause unusual mortality events in AMMs. Brucella, morbillivirus, influenza A virus, and Toxoplasma gondii are all of concern, particularly with the relative naivety of the immune systems of endemic Arctic species. There is a clear need for increased surveillance to understand baseline disease levels and address the gravity of the predicted impacts of climate change on marine mammal species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Barratclough
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, 2240 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
| | - Steven H. Ferguson
- Arctic Aquatic Research Division, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N6, Canada;
| | - Christian Lydersen
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, 9296 Tromsø, Norway; (C.L.); (K.M.K.)
| | - Peter O. Thomas
- Marine Mammal Commission, 4340 East-West Highway, Room 700, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA;
| | - Kit M. Kovacs
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, 9296 Tromsø, Norway; (C.L.); (K.M.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ahmadpour E, Rahimi MT, Ghojoghi A, Rezaei F, Hatam-Nahavandi K, Oliveira SMR, de Lourdes Pereira M, Majidiani H, Siyadatpanah A, Elhamirad S, Cong W, Pagheh AS. Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Marine Animal Species, as a Potential Source of Food Contamination: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:592-605. [PMID: 35038109 PMCID: PMC8761968 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00507-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Many marine animals are infected and susceptible to toxoplasmosis, which is considered as a potential transmission source of Toxoplasma gondii to other hosts, especially humans. The current systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of T. gondii infection among sea animal species worldwide and highlight the existing gaps. METHODS Data collection was systematically done through searching databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science from 1997 to July 2020. RESULTS Our search strategy resulted in the retrieval of 55 eligible studies reporting the prevalence of marine T. gondii infection. The highest prevalence belonged to mustelids (sea otter) with 54.8% (95% CI 34.21-74.57) and cetaceans (whale, dolphin, and porpoise) with 30.92% (95% CI 17.85-45.76). The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) with 41 records and indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) with 30 records were the most applied diagnostic techniques for T. gondii detection in marine species. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated the geographic distribution and spectrum of infected marine species with T. gondii in different parts of the world. The spread of T. gondii among marine animals can affect the health of humans and other animals; in addition, it is possible that marine mammals act as sentinels of environmental contamination, especially the parasites by consuming water or prey species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Ahmadpour
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Altin Ghojoghi
- Department of Fisheries, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgān, Iran
| | | | | | - Sónia M R Oliveira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Hamidreza Majidiani
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Samira Elhamirad
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 9717853577, Birjand, Iran
| | - Wei Cong
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, China
| | - Abdol Sattar Pagheh
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 9717853577, Birjand, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li MY, Gao XN, Ma JY, Elsheikha HM, Cong W. A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the global prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in wild marine mammals and associations with epidemiological variables. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e1213-e1230. [PMID: 35195942 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14493] [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: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infection in wild marine mammals is a growing problem and is associated with adverse impacts on marine animal health and public health. This systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression estimates the global prevalence of T. gondii infection in wild marine mammals and analyzes the association between T. gondii infection and epidemiological variables. PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data databases were searched until 30 May 2021. Eighty-four studies (n = 14,931 wild marine mammals from 15 families) were identified from literature. The overall pooled prevalence of T. gondii infection was 22.44% (3,848/14,931; 95% confidence interval (CI): 17.29% - 8.04%). The prevalence in adult animals 21.88% (798/3119; 95% CI: 13.40 -31.59) was higher than in the younger age groups. North America had a higher prevalence 29.92% (2756/9243; 95% CI: 21.77 - 38.77) compared with other continents. At the country level, the highest prevalence was found in Spain 44.26% (19/88; 95%CI: 5.21 - 88.54). Regarding climatic variables, the highest prevalence was found in areas with a mean annual temperature >20°C 36.28% (171/562; 95% CI: 6.36 - 73.61) and areas with an annual precipitation >800 mm 26.92% (1341/5042; 95% CI: 18.20 - 36.59). The subgroup and meta-regression analyses showed that study-level covariates, including age, country, continent, and mean temperature, partly explained the between-study heterogeneity. Further studies are needed to investigate the source of terrestrial to aquatic dissemination of T. gondii oocysts, the fate of this parasite in marine habitat and its effects on wild marine mammals. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Man-Yao Li
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China
| | - Xiao-Nan Gao
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China
| | - Jun-Yang Ma
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China
| | - Hany M Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Wei Cong
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Martins M, Urbani N, Flanagan C, Siebert U, Gross S, Dubey JP, Cardoso L, Lopes AP. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Pinnipeds under Human Care and in Wild Pinnipeds. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111415. [PMID: 34832571 PMCID: PMC8620079 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111415] [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: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infection has been reported in numerous species of marine mammals, some of them with fatal consequences. A serosurvey for T. gondii infection was conducted in pinnipeds from an oceanographic park in Portugal (n = 60); stranded pinnipeds on the Portuguese coast (n = 10); and pinnipeds captured in Lorenzensplate, Germany (n = 99). Sera from 169 pinnipeds were tested for the presence of antibodies to T. gondii by the modified agglutination test with a cut-off titre of 25. An overall seroprevalence of 8.9% (95% confidence interval: 5.1–14.2) was observed. Antibody titres of 25, 50, 100, 1600 and ≥3200 were found in five (33.3%), two (13.3%), five (33.3%), one (6.7%) and two (13.3%) animals, respectively. Pinnipeds under human care had a seroprevalence of 20.0% (12/60), in contrast to 2.8% (3/109) in wild pinnipeds (p < 0.001). General results suggest a low exposure of wild pinnipeds to T. gondii, while the seroprevalence found in pinnipeds under human care highlights the importance of carrying out further studies. This is the first serological survey of T. gondii in pinnipeds in Portugal and the first infection report in South African fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Martins
- Zoomarine Portugal, 8201-864 Guia, Portugal; (M.M.); (N.U.); (C.F.)
| | - Nuno Urbani
- Zoomarine Portugal, 8201-864 Guia, Portugal; (M.M.); (N.U.); (C.F.)
| | - Carla Flanagan
- Zoomarine Portugal, 8201-864 Guia, Portugal; (M.M.); (N.U.); (C.F.)
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Buesum, Germany; (U.S.); (S.G.)
| | - Stephanie Gross
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Buesum, Germany; (U.S.); (S.G.)
| | - Jitender P. Dubey
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA;
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
- Correspondence:
| | - Ana Patrícia Lopes
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pilfold NW, Richardson ES, Ellis J, Jenkins E, Scandrett WB, Hernández‐Ortiz A, Buhler K, McGeachy D, Al‐Adhami B, Konecsni K, Lobanov VA, Owen MA, Rideout B, Lunn NJ. Long-term increases in pathogen seroprevalence in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) influenced by climate change. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2021; 27:4481-4497. [PMID: 34292654 PMCID: PMC8457125 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The influence of climate change on wildlife disease dynamics is a burgeoning conservation and human health issue, but few long-term studies empirically link climate to pathogen prevalence. Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are vulnerable to the negative impacts of sea ice loss as a result of accelerated Arctic warming. While studies have associated changes in polar bear body condition, reproductive output, survival, and abundance to reductions in sea ice, no long-term studies have documented the impact of climate change on pathogen exposure. We examined 425 serum samples from 381 adult polar bears, collected in western Hudson Bay (WH), Canada, for antibodies to selected pathogens across three time periods: 1986-1989 (n = 157), 1995-1998 (n = 159) and 2015-2017 (n = 109). We ran serological assays for antibodies to seven pathogens: Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Trichinella spp., Francisella tularensis, Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine morbillivirus (CDV) and canine parvovirus (CPV). Seroprevalence of zoonotic parasites (T. gondii, Trichinella spp.) and bacterial pathogens (F. tularensis, B. bronchiseptica) increased significantly between 1986-1989 and 1995-1998, ranging from +6.2% to +20.8%, with T. gondii continuing to increase into 2015-2017 (+25.8% overall). Seroprevalence of viral pathogens (CDV, CPV) and N. caninum did not change with time. Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence was higher following wetter summers, while seroprevalences of Trichinella spp. and B. bronchiseptica were positively correlated with hotter summers. Seroprevalence of antibodies to F. tularensis increased following years polar bears spent more days on land, and polar bears previously captured in human settlements were more likely to be seropositive for Trichinella spp. As the Arctic has warmed due to climate change, zoonotic pathogen exposure in WH polar bears has increased, driven by numerous altered ecosystem pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas W. Pilfold
- Conservation Science and Wildlife HealthSan Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceEscondidoCAUSA
| | - Evan S. Richardson
- Wildlife Research Division, Science and Technology BranchEnvironment and Climate Change CanadaWinnipegMBCanada
| | - John Ellis
- Department of Veterinary MicrobiologyUniversity of SaskatchewanSaskatoonSKCanada
| | - Emily Jenkins
- Department of Veterinary MicrobiologyUniversity of SaskatchewanSaskatoonSKCanada
| | - W. Brad Scandrett
- Centre for Food‐borne and Animal ParasitologyCanadian Food Inspection AgencySaskatoonSKCanada
| | | | - Kayla Buhler
- Department of Veterinary MicrobiologyUniversity of SaskatchewanSaskatoonSKCanada
| | - David McGeachy
- Wildlife Research Division, Science and Technology BranchEnvironment and Climate Change CanadaEdmontonABCanada
| | - Batol Al‐Adhami
- Centre for Food‐borne and Animal ParasitologyCanadian Food Inspection AgencySaskatoonSKCanada
| | - Kelly Konecsni
- Centre for Food‐borne and Animal ParasitologyCanadian Food Inspection AgencySaskatoonSKCanada
| | - Vladislav A. Lobanov
- Centre for Food‐borne and Animal ParasitologyCanadian Food Inspection AgencySaskatoonSKCanada
| | - Megan A. Owen
- Conservation Science and Wildlife HealthSan Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceEscondidoCAUSA
| | - Bruce Rideout
- Conservation Science and Wildlife HealthSan Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceEscondidoCAUSA
| | - Nicholas J. Lunn
- Wildlife Research Division, Science and Technology BranchEnvironment and Climate Change CanadaEdmontonABCanada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Poulle ML, Le Corre M, Bastien M, Gedda E, Feare C, Jaeger A, Larose C, Shah N, Voogt N, Göpper B, Lagadec E, Rocamora G, Geers R, Aubert D, Villena I, Lebarbenchon C. Exposure of pelagic seabirds to Toxoplasma gondii in the Western Indian Ocean points to an open sea dispersal of this terrestrial parasite. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255664. [PMID: 34407103 PMCID: PMC8372946 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that uses felids as definitive hosts and warm-blooded animals as intermediate hosts. While the dispersal of T. gondii infectious oocysts from land to coastal waters has been well documented, transmission routes to pelagic species remain puzzling. We used the modified agglutination test (MAT titre ≥ 10) to detect antibodies against T. gondii in sera collected from 1014 pelagic seabirds belonging to 10 species. Sampling was carried out on eight islands of the Western Indian Ocean: Reunion and Juan de Nova (colonized by cats), Cousin, Cousine, Aride, Bird, Europa and Tromelin islands (cat-free). Antibodies against T. gondii were found in all islands and all species but the great frigatebird. The overall seroprevalence was 16.8% [95% CI: 14.5%-19.1%] but significantly varied according to species, islands and age-classes. The low antibody levels (MAT titres = 10 or 25) detected in one shearwater and three red-footed booby chicks most likely resulted from maternal antibody transfer. In adults, exposure to soils contaminated by locally deposited oocysts may explain the detection of antibodies in both wedge-tailed shearwaters on Reunion Island and sooty terns on Juan de Nova. However, 144 adults breeding on cat-free islands also tested positive. In the Seychelles, there was a significant decrease in T. gondii prevalence associated with greater distances to cat populations for species that sometimes rest on the shore, i.e. terns and noddies. This suggests that oocysts carried by marine currents could be deposited on shore tens of kilometres from their initial deposition point and that the number of deposited oocysts decreases with distance from the nearest cat population. The consumption of fishes from the families Mullidae, Carangidae, Clupeidae and Engraulidae, previously described as T. gondii oocyst-carriers (i.e. paratenic hosts), could also explain the exposure of terns, noddies, boobies and tropicbirds to T. gondii. Our detection of antibodies against T. gondii in seabirds that fish in the high sea, have no contact with locally contaminated soils but frequent the shores and/or consume paratenic hosts supports the hypothesis of an open-sea dispersal of T. gondii oocysts by oceanic currents and/or fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Lazarine Poulle
- Epidémio-Surveillance et Circulation des Parasites dans les Environnements (ESCAPE), EA 7510, CAP SANTE, Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne, Reims, France
- CERFE, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Boult-aux-Bois, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Matthieu Le Corre
- UMR Ecologie marine tropicale des océans Pacifique et Indien (ENTROPIE), CNRS IRD, IFREMER, Université de Nouvelle-Calédonie, Université de la Réunion, Saint Denis, La Réunion, France
| | - Matthieu Bastien
- Epidémio-Surveillance et Circulation des Parasites dans les Environnements (ESCAPE), EA 7510, CAP SANTE, Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne, Reims, France
- UMR Ecologie marine tropicale des océans Pacifique et Indien (ENTROPIE), CNRS IRD, IFREMER, Université de Nouvelle-Calédonie, Université de la Réunion, Saint Denis, La Réunion, France
- Université de La Réunion, UMR Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical (PIMIT), INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, Saint Denis, La Réunion, France
| | - Elsa Gedda
- Epidémio-Surveillance et Circulation des Parasites dans les Environnements (ESCAPE), EA 7510, CAP SANTE, Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne, Reims, France
| | - Chris Feare
- WildWings Bird Management, Haslemere, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Audrey Jaeger
- UMR Ecologie marine tropicale des océans Pacifique et Indien (ENTROPIE), CNRS IRD, IFREMER, Université de Nouvelle-Calédonie, Université de la Réunion, Saint Denis, La Réunion, France
| | | | - Nirmal Shah
- Center for Environment and Education, Nature Seychelles, Roche Caïman, Mahé, Seychelles
| | | | | | - Erwan Lagadec
- Université de La Réunion, UMR Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical (PIMIT), INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, Saint Denis, La Réunion, France
| | - Gérard Rocamora
- Island Biodiversity and Conservation Centre, University of Seychelles, Anse Royale, Seychelles
- Island Conservation Society, Mahé, Seychelles
| | - Régine Geers
- Epidémio-Surveillance et Circulation des Parasites dans les Environnements (ESCAPE), EA 7510, CAP SANTE, Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne, Reims, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Centre National de Référence de la Toxoplasmose, Centre de Ressources Biologiques Toxoplasma, CHU Reims, Reims, France
| | - Dominique Aubert
- Epidémio-Surveillance et Circulation des Parasites dans les Environnements (ESCAPE), EA 7510, CAP SANTE, Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne, Reims, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Centre National de Référence de la Toxoplasmose, Centre de Ressources Biologiques Toxoplasma, CHU Reims, Reims, France
| | - Isabelle Villena
- Epidémio-Surveillance et Circulation des Parasites dans les Environnements (ESCAPE), EA 7510, CAP SANTE, Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne, Reims, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Centre National de Référence de la Toxoplasmose, Centre de Ressources Biologiques Toxoplasma, CHU Reims, Reims, France
| | - Camille Lebarbenchon
- Université de La Réunion, UMR Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical (PIMIT), INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, Saint Denis, La Réunion, France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fung R, Manore AJW, Harper SL, Sargeant JM, Shirley J, Caughey A, Shapiro K. Clams and potential foodborne Toxoplasma gondii in Nunavut, Canada. Zoonoses Public Health 2021; 68:277-283. [PMID: 33655709 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii exposure in Inuit living in Nunavut (20%) is twice that of the US (11%); however, routes of exposure for Inuit communities in North America are unclear. Exposure to T. gondii in humans has been linked with consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish that can accumulate environmentally resistant oocysts. Bivalve shellfish, such as clams, are an important, nutritious, affordable and accessible source of food in many Northern Communities. To date, presence of T. gondii in clams in Northern Canada has not been reported. In this study, we tested for T. gondii presence in clams (Mya truncata) that were harvested in Iqaluit, Nunavut over a 1-week period in September 2016. Of 390 clams, eight (2.1%) were confirmed to contain T. gondii DNA (≥99.7% identity), as determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequence confirmation. Additionally, three clams (0.8%) were confirmed to contain Neospora caninum-like DNA (≥99.2% identity). While N. caninum is not known to be a zoonotic pathogen, its presence in shellfish indicates contamination of the nearshore with canid faeces, and the potential for marine mammal exposure through marine food webs. Notably, the PCR assay employed in this study does not discriminate between viable and non-viable parasites. These findings suggest a possible route for parasite exposure through shellfish in Iqaluit, Nunavut. Future research employing viability testing will further inform public health messaging on the infectious potential of T. gondii in shellfish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Fung
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Anna J W Manore
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Sherilee L Harper
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jan M Sargeant
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Jamal Shirley
- Nunavut Research Institute, Nunavut Arctic College, Iqaluit, NU, Canada
| | - Amy Caughey
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Karen Shapiro
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, One Health Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dubey JP, Murata FHA, Cerqueira-Cézar CK, Kwok OCH, Grigg ME. Recent epidemiologic and clinical importance of Toxoplasma gondii infections in marine mammals: 2009-2020. Vet Parasitol 2020; 288:109296. [PMID: 33271425 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. T. gondii causes mortality in several species of marine mammals, including threatened Southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris) and endangered Hawaiian monk seals (Monachus schauinslandi). Marine mammals are now considered sentinels for environmental exposure to protozoan agents contaminating marine waters, including T. gondii oocysts. Marine mammals also serve as food for humans and can result in foodborne T. gondii infections in humans. The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, and genetic diversity of T. gondii infecting marine mammals in the past decade. The role of genetic types of T. gondii and clinical disease is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jitender P Dubey
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA.
| | - Fernando H A Murata
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Camila K Cerqueira-Cézar
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Oliver C H Kwok
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| | - Michael E Grigg
- Molecular Parasitology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20895, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Reiling SJ, Measures L, Feng S, Boone R, Merks H, Dixon BR. Toxoplasma gondii, Sarcocystis sp. and Neospora caninum-like parasites in seals from northern and eastern Canada: potential risk to consumers. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2019; 17:e00067. [PMID: 32095635 PMCID: PMC7033983 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2019.e00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic parasites of seals that are harvested for food may pose a health risk when seal meat or organ tissues of infected animals are eaten raw or undercooked. In this study, 124 tissue samples from 81 seals, comprising four species, were collected from northern and eastern Canada. Tissues from 23 ringed seals (Pusa hispida), 8 hooded seals (Cystophora cristata), 21 harp seals (Pagophilus groenlandicus), and 29 grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) were tested for parasites of the Sarcocystidae family including Toxoplasma gondii, Sarcocystis spp., and Neospora spp. using nested PCR followed by Sanger sequencing. Toxoplasma gondii DNA was present in 26% of ringed seals, 63% of hooded seals, 57% of harp seals, and 31% of grey seals. Sarcocystis sp. DNA was found in 9% of ringed seals, 13% of hooded seals, 14% of harp seals, and 4% of grey seals, while N. caninum-like DNA was present in 26% of ringed seals. While it is unclear how pinnipeds may become infected with these protozoans, horizontal transmission is most likely. However, one harp seal pup (4 days old) was PCR-positive for T. gondii, suggesting vertical transmission may also occur. Phylogenetic analysis of the 18S gene region indicates that Sarcocystis sp. in these seals belongs to a unique genotype. Furthermore, this study represents a new host report for T. gondii in harp seals, a new host and geographic report for N. caninum-like parasites in ringed seals, and four new hosts and geographic reports for Sarcocystis sp. These results demonstrate that parasites of the Sarcocystidae family are prevalent in northern and eastern Canadian seals. While the zoonotic potential of Sarcocystis sp. and the N. caninum-like parasite are unclear, consumption of raw or undercooked seal meat or organ tissues pose a risk of T. gondii infection to consumers. Tissues from ringed, hooded, harp and grey seals in Canada were PCR-positive for Toxoplasma, Sarcocystis and Neospora. Raw or undercooked seal meat may pose a risk for zoonotic transmission of T. gondii to consumers. The risk for zoonotic transmission of Sarcocystis sp. and the Neospora caninum-like parasite is unknown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J. Reiling
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Lena Measures
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Maurice Lamontagne Institute, Mont-Joli, QC, G5H 3Z4, Canada
| | - Sandy Feng
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Ryan Boone
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Harriet Merks
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Brent R. Dixon
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
- Corresponding author. Address: 251 Sir Frederick Banting Driveway, A.L. 2204E, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Reiling SJ, Dixon BR. Toxoplasma gondii: How an Amazonian parasite became an Inuit health issue. CANADA COMMUNICABLE DISEASE REPORT = RELEVE DES MALADIES TRANSMISSIBLES AU CANADA 2019; 45:183-190. [PMID: 31355827 PMCID: PMC6615440 DOI: 10.4745/ccdr.v45i78a03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that originated in the Amazon. Felids (mammals in the cat family) are the only definitive hosts. These animals shed large numbers of infectious oocysts into the environment, which can subsequently infect many intermediate hosts, including birds, mammals and, possibly, fish. Human T. gondii seroprevalence is high in some parts of the Canadian Arctic and is associated with adverse health consequences among Inuit population. Since the range of felids does not extend to the Arctic, it is not immediately obvious how this parasite got from the Amazon to the Arctic. The objectives of this overview are to summarize the health impacts of T. gondii infection in Inuit in Canada's North and to consider how this infection could have reached them. This article reviews the prevalence of T. gondii infection in terrestrial and marine animals in the Canadian Arctic and discusses their potential role in the foodborne transmission of this parasite to humans. Two distribution factors seem plausible. First, felids in more southern habitats may release infectious oocysts into waterways. As these oocysts remain viable for months, they can be transported northward via rivers and ocean currents and could infect Arctic fish and eventually the marine mammals that prey on the fish. Second, migratory terrestrial and marine intermediate hosts may be responsible for carrying T. gondii tissue cysts to the Arctic, where they may then pass on the infection to carnivores. The most likely source of T. gondii in Inuit is from consumption of traditionally-prepared country foods including meat and organs from intermediate hosts, which may be consumed raw. With climate change, northward migration of felids may increase the prevalence of T. gondii in Arctic wildlife.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- SJ Reiling
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON
| | - BR Dixon
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Reiling SJ, Dixon BR. Toxoplasma gondii: How an Amazonian parasite became an Inuit health issue. CANADA COMMUNICABLE DISEASE REPORT = RELEVE DES MALADIES TRANSMISSIBLES AU CANADA 2019; 45:183-190. [PMID: 31355827 PMCID: PMC6615440 DOI: 10.14745/ccdr.v45i78a03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that originated in the Amazon. Felids (mammals in the cat family) are the only definitive hosts. These animals shed large numbers of infectious oocysts into the environment, which can subsequently infect many intermediate hosts, including birds, mammals and, possibly, fish. Human T. gondii seroprevalence is high in some parts of the Canadian Arctic and is associated with adverse health consequences among Inuit population. Since the range of felids does not extend to the Arctic, it is not immediately obvious how this parasite got from the Amazon to the Arctic. The objectives of this overview are to summarize the health impacts of T. gondii infection in Inuit in Canada's North and to consider how this infection could have reached them. This article reviews the prevalence of T. gondii infection in terrestrial and marine animals in the Canadian Arctic and discusses their potential role in the foodborne transmission of this parasite to humans. Two distribution factors seem plausible. First, felids in more southern habitats may release infectious oocysts into waterways. As these oocysts remain viable for months, they can be transported northward via rivers and ocean currents and could infect Arctic fish and eventually the marine mammals that prey on the fish. Second, migratory terrestrial and marine intermediate hosts may be responsible for carrying T. gondii tissue cysts to the Arctic, where they may then pass on the infection to carnivores. The most likely source of T. gondii in Inuit is from consumption of traditionally-prepared country foods including meat and organs from intermediate hosts, which may be consumed raw. With climate change, northward migration of felids may increase the prevalence of T. gondii in Arctic wildlife.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- SJ Reiling
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON
| | - BR Dixon
- Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sharma R, Parker S, Elkin B, Mulders R, Branigan M, Pongracz J, Godson DL, Larter NC, Jenkins E. Risk factors and prevalence of antibodies for Toxoplasma gondii in diaphragmatic fluid in wolverines ( Gulo gulo) from the Northwest Territories, Canada. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2019; 15:e00056. [PMID: 32095625 PMCID: PMC7034056 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2019.e00056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, a zoonotic food borne parasite that can infect almost all warm-blooded animals including people, and ranks 4th among 24 most significant global foodborne parasites listed by the World Health Organization/United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO/WHO, 2014). Exposure to T. gondii has been reported in wildlife and people in the Canadian North, despite low densities of feline definitive hosts. The ecology of this host-parasite system could be affected by changing climate and landscape in boreal and sub-Arctic regions, and surveillance data are critically needed. Wolverines are an economically and culturally important species in northern Canada due to their valuable fur. Fluid obtained from diaphragmatic muscle of 127 wolverines (Gulo gulo) were tested for antibodies to T. gondii using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A seroprevalence of 62% (Confidence Interval (CI): 53-71%) was observed. This result indicates high levels of exposure, likely either through environmental contamination with T. gondii oocysts shed by infected wild felids, or consumption of carcasses/offal of other intermediate hosts containing tissue cysts with bradyzoites in tissues. We examined factors associated with seropositivity, including age, sex, harvest location, harvest location with respect to treeline, and body condition index. Adult (≥2 years) wolverines had 5.2 times higher odds of being sero-positive than juvenile (<1 years) wolverines. The highest seroprevalence was observed in wolverines from Sahtu and South Slave regions. Proportion of sero-positive wolverines harvested above and below the tree line was not significantly different (60% vs 65%). Age was the only significant predictor of T. gondii exposure in wolverines (using logistic regression analysis); further studies should target larger sample sizes. This study is an example of how fluid from diaphragmatic muscle can be used for screening for T. gondii antibodies in wolverines. The diaphragm, commonly collected for screening for another food borne parasite, Trichinella, in wildlife harvested for human consumption, can be used for screening of T. gondii exposure in wildlife. Due to their predatory and scavenging lifestyle and high trophic level, wolverines could serve as a sentinel species for T. gondii.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajnish Sharma
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon S7N 5B4, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Sarah Parker
- Centre for Applied Epidemiology, Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon S7N 5B4, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Brett Elkin
- Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Government of the Northwest Territories, 600, 5102-50th Avenue, Yellowknife X1A S8, NT, Canada
| | - Robert Mulders
- Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Government of the Northwest Territories, 600, 5102-50th Avenue, Yellowknife X1A S8, NT, Canada
| | - Marsha Branigan
- Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Government of the Northwest Territories, P.O. Box 2749, Shell Lake, Inuvik X0E 0T0, NT, Canada
| | - Jodie Pongracz
- Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Government of the Northwest Territories, P.O. Box 2749, Shell Lake, Inuvik X0E 0T0, NT, Canada
| | - Dale L. Godson
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon S7N 5B4, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Nicholas C. Larter
- Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Government of the Northwest Territories, PO Box 240, Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, Canada
| | - Emily Jenkins
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon S7N 5B4, Saskatchewan, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bachand N, Ravel A, Leighton P, Stephen C, Ndao M, Avard E, Jenkins E. Serological and molecular detection of Toxoplasma gondii in terrestrial and marine wildlife harvested for food in Nunavik, Canada. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:155. [PMID: 30944016 PMCID: PMC6448294 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3408-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii, a zoonotic protozoan parasite, infects mammals and birds worldwide. Infection in humans is often asymptomatic, though illnesses can occur in immunocompromised hosts and the fetuses of susceptible women infected during pregnancy. In Nunavik, Canada, 60% of the Inuit population has measurable antibodies against T. gondii. Handling and consumption of wildlife have been identified as risk factors for exposure. Serological evidence of exposure has been reported for wildlife in Nunavik; however, T. gondii has not been detected in wildlife tissues commonly consumed by Inuit. METHODS We used a magnetic capture DNA extraction and real-time PCR protocol to extract and amplify T. gondii DNA from large quantities of tissues (up to 100 g) of 441 individual animals in Nunavik: 166 ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus), 156 geese (Branta canadensis and Chen caerulescens), 61 ringed seals (Pusa hispida), 31 caribou (Rangifer tarandus) and 27 walruses (Odobenus rosmarus). RESULTS DNA from T. gondii was detected in 9% (95% CI: 3-15%) of geese from four communities in western and southern Nunavik, but DNA was not detected in other wildlife species including 20% (95% CI: 12-31%) of ringed seals and 26% (95% CI: 14-43%) of caribou positive on a commercial modified agglutination test (MAT) using thawed heart muscle juice. In geese, tissue parasite burden was highest in heart, followed by brain, breast muscle, liver and gizzard. Serological results did not correlate well with tissue infection status for any wildlife species. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first report on the detection, quantification, and characterization of DNA of T. gondii (clonal lineage II in one goose) from wildlife harvested for food in Nunavik, which supports the hypothesis that migratory geese can carry T. gondii into Nunavik where feline definitive hosts are rare. This study suggests that direct detection methods may be useful for detection of T. gondii in wildlife harvested for human consumption and provides data needed for a quantitative exposure assessment that will determine the risk of T. gondii exposure for Inuit who harvest and consume geese in Nunavik.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Bachand
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, S7H 5B4 Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 2M2 Canada
| | - André Ravel
- Groupe de Recherche en épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 2M2 Canada
| | - Patrick Leighton
- Groupe de Recherche en épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 2M2 Canada
| | - Craig Stephen
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, S7H 5B4 Canada
- Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, S7N 5B4 Canada
| | - Momar Ndao
- National Reference Centre for Parasitology, J.D. MacLean Tropical Diseases Centre, McGill University, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1 Canada
| | - Ellen Avard
- Nunavik Research Center, Makivik Corporation, Kuujjuaq, Canada
| | - Emily Jenkins
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, S7H 5B4 Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 2M2 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sharma R, Parker S, Al-Adhami B, Bachand N, Jenkins E. Comparison of tissues (heart vs. brain) and serological tests (MAT, ELISA and IFAT) for detection of Toxoplasma gondii in naturally infected wolverines ( Gulo gulo) from the Yukon, Canada. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2019; 15:e00046. [PMID: 32095617 PMCID: PMC7034044 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2019.e00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is an important parasitic zoonosis worldwide. Many human and animal surveys use serological assays based on Toxoplasma gondii antibody detection in serum, a matrix that is not routinely available from wildlife. Commonly used serological assays have rarely been validated for use with fluids other than serum, nor validated for their performance in wildlife species. New molecular assays, such as magnetic capture DNA extraction and real-time PCR (MC-qPCR), offer high sensitivity for detection of T. gondii DNA in tissues. The aims of this study were to (1) assess prevalence of T. gondii DNA based on MC-qPCR detection in brain and heart of naturally infected wolverines (Gulo gulo) from the Yukon, Canada (2) compare two matrices [heart fluid (collected from thawed heart) and filter eluate (eluted from blood soaked filter paper)] for antibody detection in the same species, and (3) evaluate the performance of three serological tests [modified agglutination test (MAT), enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT)] to detect naturally infected wolverines as determined by MC-qPCR. DNA of T. gondii was detected in heart and/or brain in 16 of 68 wolverines (24%, 95% CI: 15.0-34.8). Tissue prevalence and infection intensity was higher in heart [16 positives, mediantachyzoites equivalents per gram (TEG) =1221] compared to brain (10 positives, median TEG = 347). Heart fluid (HF) and filter eluates (FE) performed equally well in ELISA and IFAT in terms of relative sensitivity, but HF performed better with MAT. ELISA and IFAT had higher relative sensitivity (94%) and relative specificity (100%) compared to MAT (relative sensitivity 75% and relative specificity 92%). Overall, our findings indicate that the parasite burden in naturally infected wolverines was higher in heart compared to brain, heart fluid performed better than filter paper eluate for serological testing using MAT, and both IFAT and ELISA had higher relative sensitivity, relative specificity, and accuracy compared to MAT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajnish Sharma
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Sarah Parker
- Centre for Applied Epidemiology, Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Batol Al-Adhami
- Centre for Food-borne and Animal Parasitology, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Saskatoon Laboratory, 116 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 2R3, Canada
| | - Nicholas Bachand
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Emily Jenkins
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Environmental and behavioral changes may influence the exposure of an Arctic apex predator to pathogens and contaminants. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13193. [PMID: 29038498 PMCID: PMC5643432 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13496-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent decline of sea ice habitat has coincided with increased use of land by polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from the southern Beaufort Sea (SB), which may alter the risks of exposure to pathogens and contaminants. We assayed blood samples from SB polar bears to assess prior exposure to the pathogens Brucella spp., Toxoplasma gondii, Coxiella burnetii, Francisella tularensis, and Neospora caninum, estimate concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and evaluate risk factors associated with exposure to pathogens and POPs. We found that seroprevalence of Brucella spp. and T. gondii antibodies likely increased through time, and provide the first evidence of exposure of polar bears to C. burnetii, N. caninum, and F. tularensis. Additionally, the odds of exposure to T. gondii were greater for bears that used land than for bears that remained on the sea ice during summer and fall, while mean concentrations of the POP chlordane (ΣCHL) were lower for land-based bears. Changes in polar bear behavior brought about by climate-induced modifications to the Arctic marine ecosystem may increase exposure risk to certain pathogens and alter contaminant exposure pathways.
Collapse
|
16
|
East-West Divide: temperature and land cover drive spatial variation of Toxoplasma gondii infection in Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) from England and Wales. Parasitology 2017; 144:1433-1440. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182017000865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARYToxoplasma gondii, a zoonotic parasite of global importance, infects all endothermic vertebrates, with extensive health implications. The prevalence of this parasite is seldom monitored in wildlife. Here, a semi-aquatic species, the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) was used as a model to assess the potential effect of climate, land cover and biotic factors on T. gondii seroprevalence in British wildlife. The Sabin–Feldman cytoplasm-modifying dye test identified T. gondii antibodies in 25·5% of blood samples from otters found dead, mainly as road kill, in England and Wales, between 2004 and 2010. Otters in the east of England were more likely to be infected with T. gondii than those in western regions. Land cover and temperature are key determinants of T. gondii infection risk, with more infection in arable areas and lower infection where temperatures are higher. The probability of T. gondii infection increased with host age, reflecting cumulative exposure with time, but there was no association between T. gondii seroprevalence and cause of host death.
Collapse
|
17
|
ESTIMATINGTOXOPLASMA GONDIIEXPOSURE IN ARCTIC FOXES WHILE NAVIGATING THE IMPERFECT WORLD OF WILDLIFE SEROLOGY. J Wildl Dis 2015. [DOI: 10.7589/2015-03-075r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
18
|
Reichel M, Muñoz-Caro T, Sanchez Contreras G, Rubio García A, Magdowski G, Gärtner U, Taubert A, Hermosilla C. Harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) PMN and monocytes release extracellular traps to capture the apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2015; 50:106-115. [PMID: 25681075 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2015.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2014] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular traps (ETs) are composed of nuclear DNA as backbone adorned with histones, cytoplasmic antimicrobial peptides/proteins which are released from a range of vertebrate and invertebrate host immune cells in response to several invading pathogens. Until now this ancient novel innate defence mechanism has not been demonstrated in any marine mammal. Interactions of harbour seal (Phoca vitulina)-PMN and -monocytes with viable tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii were investigated in this respect in vitro. For the demonstration and quantification of harbour seal PMN- and monocyte-derived ETs, extracellular DNA was stained with Sytox Orange. Fluorescence assays as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses demonstrated PMN- and monocyte-promoted ET formation rapidly being induced upon contact with T. gondii-tachyzoites. The co-localisation of extracellular DNA decorated with histones (H3), neutrophil elastase (NE) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in parasite entrapping structures confirmed the classical characteristics of PMN- and monocyte-promoted ETs. Exposure of harbour seal PMN and monocytes to viable tachyzoites resulted in a significant induction of ETs when compared to negative controls. Harbour seal-ETs were efficiently abolished by DNase I treatment and were reduced after PMN and monocytes pre-incubation with the NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenilane iodondium. Tachyzoites of T. gondii were firmly entrapped and immobilised within harbour seal-ET structures. To our best knowledge, we here report for the first time on T. gondii-induced ET formation in harbour seal-PMN and -monocytes. Our results strongly indicate that PMN- and monocyte-triggered ETs represent a relevant and ancient conserved effector mechanism of the pinniped innate immune system as reaction against the pathogenic protozoon T. gondii and probably against other foreign pathogens occurring in the ocean environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Reichel
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Tamara Muñoz-Caro
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Ana Rubio García
- Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre, Pieterburen, The Netherlands
| | - Gerd Magdowski
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Gärtner
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Anja Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carlos Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Jenkins EJ, Simon A, Bachand N, Stephen C. Wildlife parasites in a One Health world. Trends Parasitol 2015; 31:174-80. [PMID: 25662272 PMCID: PMC7106350 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2015.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Revised: 01/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
One Health emphasizes the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health. Wildlife parasites are ubiquitous; how do we decide which are One Health issues? We propose questions to help to prioritize wildlife parasites in a One Health context. We suggest principles for taking action on wildlife parasites with One Health significance.
One Health has gained a remarkable profile in the animal and public health communities, in part owing to the pressing issues of emerging infectious diseases of wildlife origin. Wildlife parasitology can offer insights into One Health, and likewise One Health can provide justification to study and act on wildlife parasites. But how do we decide which wildlife parasites are One Health issues? We explore toxoplasmosis in wildlife in the Canadian Arctic as an example of a parasite that poses a risk to human health, and that also has potential to adversely affect wildlife populations of conservation concern and importance for food security and cultural well-being. This One Health framework can help communities, researchers, and policymakers prioritize issues for action in a resource-limited world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Jenkins
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, 52 Campus Drive, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7H 5B4, SK, Canada.
| | - Audrey Simon
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, CP 5000, Saint-Hyacinthe J2S 7C6, QC, Canada
| | - Nicholas Bachand
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, 52 Campus Drive, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7H 5B4, SK, Canada
| | - Craig Stephen
- Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, 52 Campus Drive, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7H 5B4, SK, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Blanchet MA, Godfroid J, Breines EM, Heide-Jørgensen MP, Nielsen NH, Hasselmeier I, Iversen M, Jensen SK, Åsbakk K. West Greenland harbour porpoises assayed for antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii: false positives with the direct agglutination method. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2014; 108:181-186. [PMID: 24695231 DOI: 10.3354/dao02715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We assayed blood/tissue fluid samples from 20 harbour porpoises Phocoena phocoena from western Greenland coastal waters for antibodies against the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii by the direct agglutination test (DAT). Nine individuals (45%) were interpreted to be seropositive at 1:40 dilution and 4 (20%) were seropositive up to 1:160. Samples from these individuals were assayed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and tissue samples of the DAT-positive animals were tested by a nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR). Results from both methods were negative, suggesting the absence of infection in the tested animals. After chloroform clean-up, all were negative when re-assayed by DAT. We concluded that infection with T. gondii was absent in all 20 animals, despite the initially positive DAT results, and that the false positives resulted from non-specific adherence to tachyzoites in the DAT assay which could be removed by the chloroform clean-up method. Our results suggest that detecting antibodies against T. gondii using the DAT or the modified agglutination technique, particularly on samples from Arctic marine animals which often are rich in lipids, may lead to false positive results. For such samples, the use of ELISA or PCR on available tissue samples may be advocated as confirmatory tests in order to avoid false positives and overestimating seroprevalence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Anne Blanchet
- Norwegian School of Veterinary Science, Section of Arctic Veterinary Medicine, Stakkevollveien 23, 9010 Tromsø, Norway
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Goyette S, Cao Z, Libman M, Ndao M, Ward BJ. Seroprevalence of parasitic zoonoses and their relationship with social factors among the Canadian Inuit in Arctic regions. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2014; 78:404-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2013.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Revised: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
|
22
|
Simon A, Rousseau AN, Savary S, Bigras-Poulin M, Ogden NH. Hydrological modelling of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts transport to investigate contaminated snowmelt runoff as a potential source of infection for marine mammals in the Canadian Arctic. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2013; 127:150-61. [PMID: 23702377 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2013.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2012] [Revised: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/11/2013] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a zoonotic protozoan that sometimes causes serious illness in humans and other animals worldwide, including the Canadian Arctic. Wild and domestic felids, the only hosts able to shed T. gondii oocysts, are practically non-existent in the Canadian Arctic. So here the hypothesis that T. gondii oocysts, shed in the southern areas of the boreal watershed, could contaminate the Arctic coastal marine environment via surface runoff, particularly during the spring snowmelt period, was explored. A watershed model was applied to simulate the hydrological transport of T. gondii oocysts during the snowmelt period and test the possible efficiency of river-to-sea transport as a potential source of marine organisms' exposure to this pathogen. Simulations were run for two pilot watersheds with the ultimate aim of extrapolating the results across the Canadian Arctic watersheds. Results suggest that daily stream flow concentrations of T. gondii oocysts at the river outlet are likely to be very low. However, accumulation of oocysts in the estuarine areas may be large enough to contaminate estuarine/marine filter-feeding molluscs and snails on which seals and other marine mammals may feed. Potential maximum concentrations of T. gondii oocysts in runoff are reached at the beginning of the snowmelt period with maxima varying with discharge rates into rivers and how far upstream oocysts are discharged. Meteorological conditions during the snowmelt period can affect simulated concentrations of oocysts. These findings support the hypothesis that T. gondii oocysts carried in snowmelt runoff could be a source of T. gondii infection for marine mammals in the Canadian Arctic, and for Arctic human populations that hunt and consume raw meat from marine mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Simon
- Groupe de recherche en épidémiologie des zoonoses et santé publique, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, CP 5000, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 7C6 Québec, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Parkinson AJ. The Arctic Human Health Initiative: a legacy of the International Polar Year 2007-2009. Int J Circumpolar Health 2013; 72:21655. [PMID: 23971017 PMCID: PMC3749855 DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v72i0.21655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The International Polar Year (IPY) 2007-2008 represented a unique opportunity to further stimulate cooperation and coordination on Arctic health research and increase the awareness and visibility of Arctic regions. The Arctic Human Health Initiative (AHHI) was a US-led Arctic Council IPY coordinating project that aimed to build and expand on existing International Union for Circumpolar Health (IUCH) and Arctic Council human health interests. The project aimed to link researchers with potential international collaborators and to serve as a focal point for human health research, education, outreach and communication activities during the IPY. The progress of projects conducted as part of this initiative up until the end of the Arctic Council Swedish chairmanship in May 2013 is summarized in this report. DESIGN The overall goals of the AHHI was to increase awareness and visibility of human health concerns of Arctic peoples, foster human health research, and promote health strategies that will improve health and well-being of all Arctic residents. Proposed activities to be recognized through the initiative included: expanding research networks that will enhance surveillance and monitoring of health issues of concern to Arctic peoples, and increase collaboration and coordination of human health research; fostering research that will examine the health impact of anthropogenic pollution, rapid modernization and economic development, climate variability, infectious and chronic diseases, intentional and unintentional injuries, promoting education, outreach and communication that will focus public and political attention on Arctic health issues, using a variety of publications, printed and electronic reports from scientific conferences, symposia and workshops targeting researchers, students, communities and policy makers; promoting the translation of research into health policy and community action including implementation of prevention strategies and health promotion; and promoting synergy and strategic direction of Arctic human health research and health promotion. RESULTS As of 31 March, 2009, the official end of the IPY, AHHI represented a total of 38 proposals, including 21 individual Expressions of Intent (EoI), and 9 full proposals (FP), submitted to the IPY Joint Committee for review and approval from lead investigators from the US, Canada, Greenland, Norway, Finland, Sweden and the Russian Federation. In addition, there were 10 National Initiatives (NI-projects undertaken during IPY beyond the IPY Joint Committee review process). Individual project details can be viewed at www.arctichealth.org. The AHHI currently monitors the progress of 28 individual active human health projects in the following thematic areas: health network expansion (5 projects), infectious disease research (7 projects), environmental health research (7 projects), behavioral and mental health research (4 projects), and outreach education and communication (5 projects). CONCLUSIONS While some projects have been completed, others will continue well beyond the IPY. The IPY 2007-2008 represented a unique opportunity to further stimulate cooperation and coordination on Arctic health research and increase the awareness and visibility of Arctic regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan J Parkinson
- Arctic Investigations Program, Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Anchorage, AK 99508, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Chadwick EA, Cable J, Chinchen A, Francis J, Guy E, Kean EF, Paul SC, Perkins SE, Sherrard-Smith E, Wilkinson C, Forman DW. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) in England and Wales. Parasit Vectors 2013; 6:75. [PMID: 23510234 PMCID: PMC3622576 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii is found on all continents and can infect all endothermic vertebrates. Toxoplasmosis is a globally important zoonosis with potentially devastating health impacts both for humans and a range of domestic and wild species. The World Health Organisation have repeatedly recommended the collection of accurate epidemiological data for T. gondii, yet despite recognised links between infection of wildlife, domestic animals and humans, seroprevalence in wild species is rarely monitored. Here, serological investigation using the Gold Standard Sabin-Feldman Dye Test was used to test for T. gondii in Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) found dead, mainly as road-kill, in England and Wales. This is the first spatially widespread study of T. gondii in UK wildlife, and the first extensive survey of T. gondii in Eurasian otters, a sentinel species of fresh waters. Findings Infection was both common (39.5% prevalence, n = 271) and widespread, with significantly more infection in the east than the west of the UK. There was an increase in seroprevalence with age, but no sex bias. Conclusions The relatively high prevalence of T. gondii in a predominantly piscivorous freshwater mammal suggests widespread faecal contamination of freshwater ecosystems with oocysts. Continued surveillance of the Eurasian otter for T. gondii is valuable because of conservation concerns due to the otter’s ‘near threatened’ status on the IUCN Red List and because of the host’s role as a sentinel for freshwater health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Chadwick
- School of Biosciences, Sir Martin Evans Building, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AX, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Simon A, Poulin MB, Rousseau AN, Ogden NH. Fate and transport of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in seasonally snow covered watersheds: a conceptual framework from a melting snowpack to the Canadian arctic coasts. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 10:994-1005. [PMID: 23478399 PMCID: PMC3709299 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10030994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2013] [Revised: 02/26/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic protozoan that causes serious illness in humans and infects animals worldwide, including the Canadian Arctic. Indeed, high prevalence of infection amongst Inuit has been recorded, possibly due to consumption of raw infected seal meat. Here we explore the hypothesis that T. gondii oocysts contaminate the coastal marine environment via surface runoff from across the boreal watershed, particularly during the snowmelt period. We propose a conceptual framework of the different processes governing the fate and transport of T. gondii oocysts from the melting snowpack to the Canadian arctic coast via the freshwater runoff. This framework identifies the feasibility of a transmission pathway of oocysts from contaminated soil to the marine environment, but also the complexity and multiplicity of mechanisms involved. In addition, the framework identifies knowledge gaps for guiding future studies on T. gondii oocysts. Furthermore, this work could be used as a tool to investigate the possible estuarine contamination by other faeces-borne pathogens transported via the spring freshet in seasonally snow covered watersheds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Simon
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, CP 5000, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 7C6, Québec, Canada; E-Mails: (M.B.P.); (N.H.O.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +1-450-773-8521 (ext. 0082); Fax: +1-450-778-8129
| | - Michel Bigras Poulin
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, CP 5000, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 7C6, Québec, Canada; E-Mails: (M.B.P.); (N.H.O.)
| | - Alain N. Rousseau
- Institut National de Recherche Scientifique, Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490, rue de la Couronne, Québec, G1K 9A9, Québec, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Nicholas H. Ogden
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, CP 5000, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 7C6, Québec, Canada; E-Mails: (M.B.P.); (N.H.O.)
- Zoonoses Division, Centre for Foodborne, Environmental and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, 3200 rue Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 7C6, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Jenkins EJ, Castrodale LJ, de Rosemond SJ, Dixon BR, Elmore SA, Gesy KM, Hoberg EP, Polley L, Schurer JM, Simard M, Thompson RCA. Tradition and transition: parasitic zoonoses of people and animals in Alaska, northern Canada, and Greenland. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2013; 82:33-204. [PMID: 23548085 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-407706-5.00002-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Zoonotic parasites are important causes of endemic and emerging human disease in northern North America and Greenland (the North), where prevalence of some parasites is higher than in the general North American population. The North today is in transition, facing increased resource extraction, globalisation of trade and travel, and rapid and accelerating environmental change. This comprehensive review addresses the diversity, distribution, ecology, epidemiology, and significance of nine zoonotic parasites in animal and human populations in the North. Based on a qualitative risk assessment with criteria heavily weighted for human health, these zoonotic parasites are ranked, in the order of decreasing importance, as follows: Echinococcus multilocularis, Toxoplasma gondii, Trichinella and Giardia, Echinococcus granulosus/canadensis and Cryptosporidium, Toxocara, anisakid nematodes, and diphyllobothriid cestodes. Recent and future trends in the importance of these parasites for human health in the North are explored. For example, the incidence of human exposure to endemic helminth zoonoses (e.g. Diphyllobothrium, Trichinella, and Echinococcus) appears to be declining, while water-borne protozoans such as Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and Toxoplasma may be emerging causes of human disease in a warming North. Parasites that undergo temperature-dependent development in the environment (such as Toxoplasma, ascarid and anisakid nematodes, and diphyllobothriid cestodes) will likely undergo accelerated development in endemic areas and temperate-adapted strains/species will move north, resulting in faunal shifts. Food-borne pathogens (e.g. Trichinella, Toxoplasma, anisakid nematodes, and diphyllobothriid cestodes) may be increasingly important as animal products are exported from the North and tourists, workers, and domestic animals enter the North. Finally, key needs are identified to better assess and mitigate risks associated with zoonotic parasites, including enhanced surveillance in animals and people, detection methods, and delivery and evaluation of veterinary and public health services.
Collapse
|
27
|
Sampasa-Kanyinga H, Lévesque B, Anassour-Laouan-Sidi E, Côté S, Serhir B, Ward BJ, Libman MD, Drebot MA, Makowski K, Dimitrova K, Ndao M, Dewailly É. Zoonotic infections in communities of the James Bay Cree territory: An overview of seroprevalence. THE CANADIAN JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES & MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DES MALADIES INFECTIEUSES ET DE LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE 2013; 24:79-84. [PMID: 24421806 PMCID: PMC3720002 DOI: 10.1155/2013/370321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Cree communities of James Bay are at risk for contracting infectious diseases transmitted by wildlife. Data from serological testing for a range of zoonotic infections performed in the general population (six communities), or trappers and their spouses (one community), were abstracted from four population-based studies conducted in Cree territory (Quebec) between 2005 and 2009. Evidence of exposure to Trichinella species, Toxoplasma gondii, Toxocara canis, Echinococcus granulosus, Leptospira species, Coxiella burnetii and Francisella tularensis was verified in all communities, whereas antibodies against Sin Nombre virus and California serogroup viruses (Jamestown Canyon and snowshoe hare viruses) were evaluated in three and six communities, respectively. Seroprevalence varied widely among communities: snowshoe hare virus (1% to 42%), F tularensis (14% to 37%), Leptospira species (10% to 27%), Jamestown Canyon virus (9% to 24%), C burnetii (0% to 18%), T gondii (4% to 12%), T canis (0% to 10%), E granulosus (0% to 4%) and Trichinella species (0% to 1%). No subject had serological evidence of Sin Nombre virus exposure. These data suggest that large proportions of the Cree population have been exposed to at least one of the targeted zoonotic agents. The Cree population, particularly those most heavily exposed to fauna, as well as the medical staff living in these regions, should be aware of these diseases. Greater awareness would not only help to decrease exposures but would also increase the chance of appropriate diagnostic testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Sampasa-Kanyinga
- Axe Santé des Populations et Environnement, Centre de recherche, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec (CHUQ)
| | - Benoit Lévesque
- Axe Santé des Populations et Environnement, Centre de recherche, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec (CHUQ)
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ)
| | - Elhadji Anassour-Laouan-Sidi
- Axe Santé des Populations et Environnement, Centre de recherche, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec (CHUQ)
| | - Suzanne Côté
- Axe Santé des Populations et Environnement, Centre de recherche, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec (CHUQ)
| | | | - Brian J Ward
- JD MacLean Tropical Diseases Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec
| | - Michael D Libman
- Department of Microbiology, Montreal General Hospital, Montréal, Québec
| | - Michael A Drebot
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Kai Makowski
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Kristina Dimitrova
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Momar Ndao
- JD MacLean Tropical Diseases Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec
| | - Éric Dewailly
- Axe Santé des Populations et Environnement, Centre de recherche, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec (CHUQ)
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ)
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Bossart GD, Mignucci-Giannoni AA, Rivera-Guzman AL, Jimenez-Marrero NM, Camus AC, Bonde RK, Dubey JP, Reif JS. Disseminated toxoplasmosis in Antillean manatees Trichechus manatus manatus from Puerto Rico. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2012; 101:139-144. [PMID: 23135141 DOI: 10.3354/dao02526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Necropsies were conducted on 4 Antillean manatees Trichechus manatus manatus that were stranded in single events on the coastal beaches of Puerto Rico from August 2010 to August 2011. Three manatees were emaciated and the gastrointestinal tracts were devoid of digesta. Microscopically, all manatees had severe widespread inflammatory lesions of the gastrointestinal tract and heart with intralesional tachyzoites consistent with Toxoplasma gondii identified by histological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical techniques. The gastrointestinal lesions included severe, multifocal to diffuse, chronic-active enteritis, colitis and/or gastritis often with associated ulceration, necrosis and hemorrhage. Enteric leiomyositis was severe and locally extensive in all cases and associated with the most frequently observed intralesional protozoans. Moderate to severe, multifocal, chronic to chronic-active, necrotizing myocarditis was also present in all cases. Additionally, less consistent inflammatory lesions occurred in the liver, lung and a mesenteric lymph node and were associated with fewer tachyzoites. Sera (n = 30) collected from free-ranging and captive Puerto Rican manatees and a rehabilitated/released Puerto Rican manatee from 2003 to 2012 were tested for antibodies for T. gondii. A positive T. gondii antibody titer was found in 2004 in 1 (3%) of the free-ranging cases tested. Disease caused by T. gondii is rare in manatees. This is the first report of toxoplasmosis in Antillean manatees from Puerto Rico. Additionally, these are the first reported cases of disseminated toxoplasmosis in any sirenian. The documentation of 4 cases of toxoplasmosis within one year and the extremely low seroprevalence to T. gondii suggest that toxoplasmosis may be an emerging disease in Antillean manatees from Puerto Rico.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory D Bossart
- Georgia Aquarium, 225 Baker Street Northwest, Atlanta, Georgia 30313, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rengifo-Herrera C, Ortega-Mora LM, Álvarez-García G, Gómez-Bautista M, García-Párraga D, García-Peña FJ, Pedraza-Díaz S. Detection of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in Antarctic pinnipeds. Vet Parasitol 2012; 190:259-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2012] [Revised: 05/17/2012] [Accepted: 05/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|