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Hazelrig CM, Gettings JR, Cleveland CA, Varela-Stokes A, Majewska AA, Hubbard K, Burton KW, Yabsley MJ. Spatial and risk factor analyses of vector-borne pathogens among shelter dogs in the Eastern United States. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:197. [PMID: 37301970 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05813-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vector-borne infections pose significant health risks to humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. Domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) in the United States may be infected with and serve as sentinel hosts for several zoonotic vector-borne pathogens. In this study, we analyzed the geographical distribution, risk factors, and co-infections associated with infection with Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi, and Dirofilaria immitis in shelter dogs in the Eastern United States. METHODS From 2016 to 2020, blood samples from 3750 shelter dogs from 19 states were examined with IDEXX SNAP® 4Dx® Plus tests to determine the seroprevalence of infection with tick-borne pathogens and infection with D. immitis. We assessed the impact of factors including age, sex, intact status, breed group, and location on infection using logistic regression. RESULTS The overall seroprevalence of D. immitis was 11.2% (n = 419/3750), the seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. was 2.4% (n = 90/3750), the seroprevalence of Ehrlichia spp. was 8.0% (n = 299/3750), and the seroprevalence of B. burgdorferi was 8.9% (n = 332/3750). Regional variation in seroprevalence was noted: D. immitis (17.4%, n = 355/2036) and Ehrlichia spp. (10.7%, n = 217/2036) were highest in the Southeast while seroprevalence for B. burgdorferi (19.3%, n = 143/740) and Anaplasma spp. (5.7%, n = 42/740) were highest in the Northeast. Overall, 4.8% (n = 179/3750) of dogs had co-infections, the most common of which were D. immitis/Ehrlichia spp. (1.6%, n = 59/3750), B. burgdorferi/Anaplasma spp. (1.5%, n = 55/3750), and B. burgdorferi/Ehrlichia spp. (1.2%, n = 46/3750). Risk factors significantly influenced infection across the evaluated pathogens were location and breed group. All evaluated risk factors were significant for the seroprevalence of D. immitis antigens. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate a regionally variable risk of infection with vector-borne pathogens in shelter dogs throughout the Eastern United States, likely due to varying distributions of vectors. However, as many vectors are undergoing range expansions or other changes in distribution associated with climate and landscape change, continued vector-borne pathogen surveillance is important for maintaining reliable risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna M Hazelrig
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Jenna R Gettings
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Christopher A Cleveland
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Andrea Varela-Stokes
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Ania A Majewska
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Kris Hubbard
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
- West Asheville Family Vet, Asheville, NC, USA
| | - K Wade Burton
- IDEXX Laboratories, One IDEXX Drive, Westbrook, ME, USA
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
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Clark KL, Herman-Giddens ME. Investigation of a Symptomatic Tick Bite Patient Confirms Borrelia burgdorferi in Ixodes scapularis and White-Footed Mice in Ashe County, North Carolina. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2023; 23:81-84. [PMID: 36625860 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2022.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In June 2021, a traveler to Ashe County, North Carolina, was bitten by an Ixodes scapularis tick. The patient experienced axillary lymphadenopathy and an erythematous rash near the bite site. We confirmed Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto through PCR testing and DNA sequencing in the attached tick and later from mice trapped inside the cabin where the patient stayed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry L Clark
- Department of Public Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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Molecular Detection and Phylogeny of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Ticks Collected from Dogs in the Republic of Korea. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10050613. [PMID: 34067827 PMCID: PMC8157029 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050613] [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: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are important vectors of various pathogens that result in clinical illnesses in humans and domestic and wild animals. Information regarding tick infestations and pathogens transmitted by ticks is important for the identification and prevention of disease. This study was a large-scale investigation of ticks collected from dogs and their associated environments in the Republic of Korea (ROK). It included detecting six prevalent tick-borne pathogens (Anaplasma spp., A. platys, Borrelia spp., Babesia gibsoni, Ehrlichia canis, and E. chaffeensis). A total of 2293 ticks (1110 pools) were collected. Haemaphysalis longicornis (98.60%) was the most frequently collected tick species, followed by Ixodes nipponensis (0.96%) and H. flava (0.44%). Anaplasma spp. (24/1110 tick pools; 2.16%) and Borrelia spp. (4/1110 tick pools; 0.36%) were detected. The phylogenetic analyses using 16S rRNA genes revealed that the Anaplasma spp. detected in this study were closely associated with A. phagocytophilum reported in humans and rodents in the ROK. Borrelia spp. showed phylogenetic relationships with B. theileri and B. miyamotoi in ticks and humans in Mali and Russia. These results demonstrate the importance of tick-borne disease surveillance and control in dogs in the ROK.
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Meyers AC, Auckland L, Meyers HF, Rodriguez CA, Kontowicz E, Petersen CA, Travi BL, Sanders JP, Hamer SA. Epidemiology of Vector-Borne Pathogens Among U.S. Government Working Dogs. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:358-368. [PMID: 33601954 PMCID: PMC8086402 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Surveillance of U.S. domestic dogs for exposure to vector-borne pathogens can identify regions of transmission that are relevant for human and animal health. Working dogs with high levels of outdoor exposure may be sensitive indicators of local risk, owing to increased contact with vectors. We randomly selected 476 high-value government working dogs from 40 states to determine the prevalence of infection with Dirofilaria immitis and Rickettsia spp., and exposure to Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Borrelia burgdorferi, and identify risk factors for positivity. Additionally, we tested 100 of these dogs from Texas for Leishmania spp. where sand fly vectors occur. Previously published Trypanosoma cruzi infection data on these dogs were used to identify coinfection or co-exposures. Infection prevalence was 0.84% for D. immitis, and all dogs were negative for Rickettsia spp. DNA. Seroprevalence of each pathogen was: B. burgdorferi 0.84%, Ehrlichia spp. 1.3%, Anaplasma spp. 1.5%, Leishmania spp. 2.0%, and T. cruzi 12.2%. Coinfection or co-exposure took place in four (0.84%) dogs. In bivariable analysis, we found that D. immitis-positive and Ehrlichia-seropositive dogs were significantly older than negative dogs (p < 0.05). Furthermore, seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. was significantly higher among dogs in the Northeast United States relative to other areas of the country (4.7% vs. ≤1.4%; p = 0.041). Although autochthonous Leishmania infections have been described in the United States, the cases reported herein may represent imported Leishmania infection. Most federal working dogs are bred in Europe, where the parasite is endemic and congenitally transmitted. Serological cross-reaction between T. cruzi and Leishmania spp. complicates diagnosis. In this study, the use of multiple testing strategies in a comparative complementary manner provided evidence for these dogs' true exposures. Comprehensive surveillance for vector-borne pathogens in dogs can improve clinician awareness and target prevention and treatment in a One Health manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa C. Meyers
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Lisa Auckland
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Hannah F. Meyers
- Department of Chemistry, Kalamazoo College, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA
| | - Carlos A. Rodriguez
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Eric Kontowicz
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Christine A. Petersen
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Bruno L. Travi
- Department of Internal Medicine (Infectious Diseases) and Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - John P. Sanders
- Office of Workforce Health and Safety, Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Sarah A. Hamer
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.,Address correspondence to: Sarah A. Hamer, Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-4458, USA
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Little S, Braff J, Place J, Buch J, Dewage BG, Knupp A, Beall M. Canine infection with Dirofilaria immitis, Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma spp., and Ehrlichia spp. in the United States, 2013-2019. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:10. [PMID: 33407758 PMCID: PMC7789229 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04514-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dogs in the US are commonly infected with vector-borne pathogens, including heartworm and tick-borne disease agents. The geographic distribution of both arthropod vectors and the pathogens they transmit continues to expand. METHODS To describe the current geographic distribution and prevalence of antigen of Dirofilaria immitis and antibody to Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia spp., and Anaplasma spp. in dogs, we summarized over 144 million test results from 2013 to 2019, inclusive, by county, state, and region. Canine seroprevalence by state was compared to population-adjusted human reports of tick-borne diseases. RESULTS Results varied regionally, with D. immitis antigen and Ehrlichia spp. antibodies more frequently detected in the Southeast (2.6% and 5.2%, respectively) and antibody to B. burgdorferi and Anaplasma spp. most common in the Northeast (12.1% and 7.3%, respectively). Overall, percent positive test results to D. immitis decreased in the Southeast by 33.3% when compared to earlier summaries using the same strategy (from 3.9 to 2.6%). Geographic expansion of areas where dogs commonly test positive for Ehrlichia spp. was evident, likely because of a change in the test made in 2012 to allow detection of antibodies to E. ewingii concomitant with expansion of vector tick populations. Percent positive test results to Ehrlichia spp. increased in every region; this shift was particularly pronounced in the Southeast, where percent positive test results increased fourfold (from 1.3 to 5.2%). Continued geographic expansion of B. burgdorferi and A. phagocytophilum was apparent in the Northeast, Midwest, and Upper South, although canine seroprevalence of antibody to B. burgdorferi was much lower than prior surveys in many Lyme-endemic areas. Annual reports of human cases of Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis were associated with percent positive canine results by state for the three tick-borne disease agents (R2 = 0.812, 0.521, and 0.546, respectively). Within endemic areas, percent positive test results for all three tick-borne agents demonstrated evidence of geographic expansion. CONCLUSIONS Large scale analysis of results from screening dogs in practice for evidence of vector-borne infections, including those with zoonotic importance, continues to be a valuable strategy for understanding geographic trends in infection risk over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK USA
| | | | - Joshua Place
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK USA
| | - Jesse Buch
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME USA
| | - Bhagya Galkissa Dewage
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK USA
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Fudge JM, Boyanowski B, Page B, Liu S, Rogovskyy AS. Serological prevalence of six vector-borne pathogens in dogs presented for elective ovariohysterectomy or castration in the South central region of Texas. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:381. [PMID: 33032588 PMCID: PMC7545558 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02607-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most vector-borne pathogens cause zoonotic diseases. These zoonoses often have wild animal reservoirs that play a significant role in disease epidemiology. However, pet animals have also been implicated in transmission of zoonotic agents to humans. To exemplify, dogs are competent reservoir hosts for several zoonotic vector-borne bacteria and protozoa. Despite that vector-borne diseases can be life-threatening for both pets and humans, studies on pathogen seroprevalence are very limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the serological prevalence of six zoonotic vector-borne agents in dogs from the South Central region of Texas (US). Electronic medical records of dogs, presenting over 2014–2019 for elective ovariohysterectomy or castration at a high volume spay and neuter clinic, were reviewed for serological testing. Sera from 418 dogs were tested for the Dirofilaria immitis antigen, and antibodies to Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys, Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Ehrlichia ewingi, using a commonly available commercial test kit. Descriptive statistics were computed to characterize the respective seroprevalence rates of the dog population. The study involved 192 (46%) male and 226 (54%) female dogs. Results Overall, 85 (20%) dogs tested positive for at least one of the 6 pathogens investigated. The highest seroprevalence rate averaged over the 6-year period was 11.7% for D. immitis followed by 8.4% for E. canis and/or E. ewingii, 4.3% for A. phagocytophilum and/or A. platys, and 0.2% for B. burgdorferi. The co-exposure or co-infection was only detected in 3.8% of the dog population. Conclusions Together, opportunistic testing of dogs presenting for elective surgical procedures may provide an effective way of assessing seroprevalence and/or risk factors for common vector-borne diseases within a geographic region of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mack Fudge
- Hill Country Animal League, 924 N. Main St, Boerne, TX, 78006, USA
| | | | - Bernie Page
- Hill Country Animal League, 924 N. Main St, Boerne, TX, 78006, USA
| | - Shuling Liu
- Statistical Collaboration Center, Department of Statistics, College of Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Artem S Rogovskyy
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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Patterson G, Tanhauser M, Schmidt P, Spangler D, Faulkner C, Faulkner V, Kish D, Gruszynski K, Naikare H, Coarsey MD, Verma A. Serosurvey of arthropod-borne diseases among shelter dogs in the Cumberland Gap Region of the United States. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:221. [PMID: 32605566 PMCID: PMC7324960 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02440-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Cumberland Gap Region (CGR) of the United States is a natural corridor between the southeastern, northeastern, and midwestern regions of the country. CGR has also many species of ticks and mosquitos that serve as competent vectors for important animal and human pathogens. In this study, we tested dogs from six different animal shelters in the CGR for Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), anaplasmosis, Lyme disease, canine ehrlichiosis and canine heartworm disease. Results Sera from 157 shelter dogs were tested for antibodies to RMSF agent, Rickettsia rickettsii, using an indirect immunofluorescence assay. Sixty-six dogs (42.0%) were positive for either IgM or IgG, or both IgM and IgG antibodies to R. rickettsii. Moreover, the same set of sera (n = 157) plus an and additional sera (n = 75) from resident dogs at the same shelters were tested using the SNAP 4Dx Plus. Of 232 dogs tested, two (0.9%) were positive for antibodies to Anaplasma phagocytophilum/A. platys, nine (3.9%) were positive for antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi, 23 (9.9%) for positive for antibodies to Ehrlichia canis/E. ewingii, and 13 (5.6%) were positive for Dirofilaria immitis antigen. Co-infection with two or more etiologic agents was detected in five animals. Three dogs had antibodies to both B. burgdorferi and E. canis/E. ewingii, and two dogs were positive for D. immitis antigen and antibodies to B. burgdorferi and E. canis/E. ewingii. Conclusions Shelter dogs in the CGR are exposed to a number of important vector-borne pathogens. Further studies are required to ascertain the roles these animals play in maintenance and transmission of these pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert Patterson
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA.,Center for Human and Animal Health in Appalachia, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Matthew Tanhauser
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Paul Schmidt
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Dawn Spangler
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Charles Faulkner
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA.,Center for Infectious, Zoonotic and Vector-borne diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Vina Faulkner
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA.,Center for Infectious, Zoonotic and Vector-borne diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Daniel Kish
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Karen Gruszynski
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA.,Center for Human and Animal Health in Appalachia, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Hemant Naikare
- Tifton Veterinary Diagnostic and Investigational Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 43 Brighton Road, Tifton, GA, USA
| | - Michele D Coarsey
- Tifton Veterinary Diagnostic and Investigational Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 43 Brighton Road, Tifton, GA, USA
| | - Ashutosh Verma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA. .,Center for Infectious, Zoonotic and Vector-borne diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN, USA.
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Lee SH, Goo YK, Geraldino PJL, Kwon OD, Kwak D. Molecular Detection and Characterization of Borrelia garinii (Spirochaetales: Borreliaceae) in Ixodes nipponensis (Ixodida: Ixodidae) Parasitizing a Dog in Korea. Pathogens 2019; 8:E289. [PMID: 31817729 PMCID: PMC6963618 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8040289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to detect and characterize Borrelia spp. in ticks attached to dogs in Korea. Overall, 562 ticks (276 pools) attached to dogs were collected and tested for Borrelia infection by PCR targeting the 5S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer region (rrf-rrl). One tick larva (pool level, 0.4%; individual level, 0.2%) was confirmed by sequencing Borrelia garinii, a zoonotic pathogen. For molecular characterization, the outer surface protein A (ospA) and flagellin genes were analyzed. Phylogenetic ospA analysis distinguished B. garinii from B. bavariensis, which has been recently identified as a novel Borrelia species. On the other hand, phylogenetic analysis showed that single gene analysis involving rrf-rrl or flagellin was not sufficient to differentiate B. garinii from B. bavariensis. In addition, the B. garinii-infected tick was identified as Ixodes nipponensis by sequencing according to mitochondrial 16S rRNA and the second transcribed spacer region. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report the molecular detection of B. garinii in I. nipponensis parasitizing a dog in Korea. Continuous monitoring of tick-borne pathogens in ticks attached to animals is required to avoid disease distribution and possible transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Hun Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea;
| | - Youn-Kyoung Goo
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Korea;
| | - Paul John L. Geraldino
- Department of Biology, School of Arts and Sciences, University of San Carlos, Talamban Campus, Cebu 6000, Philippines;
| | - Oh-Deog Kwon
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea;
| | - Dongmi Kwak
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea;
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
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Dewage BG, Little S, Payton M, Beall M, Braff J, Szlosek D, Buch J, Knupp A. Trends in canine seroprevalence to Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma spp. in the eastern USA, 2010-2017. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:476. [PMID: 31610803 PMCID: PMC6791011 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3735-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum are tick-borne infections transmitted by Ixodes scapularis in the eastern USA; both agents cause disease in dogs and people. To characterize changes in seroprevalence over time, Cochran Armitage trend tests were used to evaluate percent positive test results for antibodies to B. burgdorferi and Anaplasma spp. in approximately 20 million canine tests from 2010–2017 in 25 states and 905 counties in the eastern USA. Results A significant decreasing trend in seroprevalence to B. burgdorferi was evident in eight states along the mid-Atlantic coast from Virginia to New Hampshire, and in Wisconsin. In contrast, a continued increasing trend was evident in five northeastern and Midwestern states where Lyme borreliosis is endemic or emerging, as well as in three southern states where endemicity has not yet been widely established. Similarly, seroprevalence to Anaplasma spp. showed a significant, although smaller, decreasing trend in five states along the mid-Atlantic coast from Virginia to Connecticut and Rhode Island, as well as in Minnesota and Wisconsin in the Midwest; despite the fact that those trends were significant they were weak. However, a strong increasing trend was evident in Massachusetts and three states in northern New England as well as in Pennsylvania. Conclusions As expected, seroprevalence continued to increase in regions where Lyme borreliosis and anaplasmosis are more newly endemic. However, the declining seroprevalence evident in other areas was not anticipated. Although the reasons for the decreasing trends are not clear, our finding may reflect shifting ecologic factors that have resulted in decreased infection risk or the combined positive influence of canine vaccination, tick control, and routine testing of dogs in regions where these infections have long been endemic. Analysis of trends in canine test results for tick-borne infections continues to be a valuable tool to understand relative geographical and temporal risk for these zoonotic agents.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhagya Galkissa Dewage
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Susan Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA.
| | - Mark Payton
- Department of Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jesse Buch
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, Maine, USA
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Angelou A, Gelasakis AI, Verde N, Pantchev N, Schaper R, Chandrashekar R, Papadopoulos E. Prevalence and risk factors for selected canine vector-borne diseases in Greece. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:283. [PMID: 31159843 PMCID: PMC6547445 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3543-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) represent a wide group of diseases of major significance for canine health. In addition to their veterinary importance, many of these diseases are of great zoonotic concern, posing a risk of potential transmission to humans. To date, there has been scant knowledge regarding the prevalence, distribution and risk factors of CVBDs in Greece. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to update the current knowledge on the seroprevalence of Dirofilaria immitis, Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp. and Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato) in dogs in Greece and, furthermore, to assess possible environmental and any other risk factors associated with these infections. A total of 1000 apparently healthy and randomly selected dogs, presented in veterinary clinics, were involved at the national level (n = 66 municipalities). Serum samples were obtained from each individual dog and were tested using the SNAP® 4Dx® Plus kit from IDEXX Laboratories. Possible risk factors were assessed using binary regression models, including dogs’ lifestyle, climatological parameters and the altitude of the region. Results Overall, 21.8% (95% CI: 19.4–24.5%) of the sampled dogs were found to be seropositive to at least one of the four pathogens examined. The most prevalent pathogen was Ehrlichia spp. (12.5%, 95% CI: 10.6–14.7) followed by D. immitis (9.0%, 95% CI: 7.8–11.5) and Anaplasma spp. (6.2%, 95% CI: 4.9–7.9). The lowest prevalence (0.1%) was recorded for B. burgdorferi (s.l.) where only one dog was found to be positive. Among the examined risk factors, low mean temperature was found to increase the prevalence of Ehrlichia spp. (P ≤ 0.001) and Anaplasma spp. (P ≤ 0.001), while low minimum temperature increased the prevalence of D. immitis (P ≤ 0.001). In addition, low total annual rainfall had an effect of the prevalence of Ehrlichia spp. (P ≤ 0.01). Altitude also had a significant effect on the prevalence of D. immitis (P ≤ 0.05) and Anaplasma spp. (P ≤ 0.01). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first large-scale seroepidemiological study of CVBDs in Greece. It has been evidenced that environmental factors such as temperature, rainfall and altitude can influence the prevalence and distribution of CVBDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Angelou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios I Gelasakis
- Laboratory of Farm Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, School of Agricultural Production, Infrastructure and Environment, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855, Iera Odos, Greece
| | - Natalia Verde
- Laboratory of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, Department of Cadastre, Photogrammetry and Cartography, Faculty of Rural and Surveying Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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11
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Seroprevalence and current infections of canine vector-borne diseases in Nicaragua. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:585. [PMID: 30419951 PMCID: PMC6233566 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3173-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vector-borne diseases constitute a major problem for veterinary and public health, especially in tropical regions like Central America. Domestic dogs may be infected with several vector-borne pathogens of zoonotic relevance, which may also severely compromise canine health. Methods To assess the prevalence of canine vector-borne diseases in Nicaragua, 329 dogs from seven cities, which were presented to the veterinarian for various reasons, were included in this study. Dogs were examined clinically and diagnostic blood samples were taken for analysis of packed cell volume (PCV) and presence of microfilariae as well as antigen of Dirofilaria immitis and antibodies to Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp. and Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato) by use of a commercially available rapid ELISA. To detect current infections, specific PCRs for the detection of E. canis, A. platys and A. phagocytophilum were carried out on blood samples of the respective seropositive dogs. Microfilaremic blood samples, as well as D. immitis antigen positive samples were further subjected to PCR and subsequent sequencing for filarial species identification. Results Antibodies against Ehrlichia spp. were present in 62.9% of dogs, while Anaplasma spp. seroprevalence was 28.6%. Antibodies against species of both genera were detected in 24.9% of dogs. Borrelia burgdorferi (s.l.) antibodies were not detected. Dirofilaria immitis antigen was present in six animals (1.8%), two of which also showed D. immitis microfilariae in buffy coat. In addition to D. immitis, Acanthocheilonema reconditum was identified by PCR and sequencing in two of four additional microfilaremic blood samples, which were tested negative for D. immitis antigen. Current E. canis infections as defined by DNA detection were present in 58.5% of Ehrlichia-seropositive dogs, while 5.3% of Anaplasma-seropositive dogs were PCR-positive for A. platys, 2.2% for A. phagocytophilum and 16.0% for both Anaplasma species. Current E. canis infection had a statistically significant negative impact on PCV, whereas no relationship between infection status and clinical signs of disease could be observed. Conclusions These results indicate that canine vector-borne diseases are widespread in Nicaragua and that dogs may constitute a reservoir for human infection with E. canis, A. phagocytophilum and D. immitis. Thus, the use of repellents or acaricides to protect dogs from vector-borne diseases is strongly recommended.
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Irwin PJ, Robertson ID, Westman ME, Perkins M, Straubinger RK. Searching for Lyme borreliosis in Australia: results of a canine sentinel study. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:114. [PMID: 28285585 PMCID: PMC5346834 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2058-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lyme borreliosis is a common tick-borne disease of the northern hemisphere that is caused by bacterial spirochaetes of the Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato) (Bbsl) complex. To date, there has been no convincing evidence for locally-acquired Lyme borreliosis on the Australian continent and there is currently a national debate concerning the nature and distributions of zoonotic tick-transmitted infectious disease in Australia. In studies conducted in Europe and the United States, dogs have been used as sentinels for tick-associated illness in people since they readily contact ticks that may harbour zoonotic pathogens. Applying this principle, we used a combination of serological assays to test dogs living in tick 'hot spots' and exposed to the Australian paralysis tick, Ixodes holocyclus, for evidence of exposure to B. burgdorferi (s.l.) antigens and other vector-borne pathogens. RESULTS Altogether, 555 dogs from four demographic groups were recruited into this study. One dog had evidence of exposure to Anaplasma spp. but no other dog was positive in screening tests. A total of 122 dogs (22.0%) had a kinetic ELISA (KELA) unit value > 100, and one dog with a high titre (399.9 KELA units) had been vaccinated against B. burgdorferi (sensu stricto) before travelling to Australia. Older dogs and those with a history of tick paralysis were significantly more likely to have a KELA unit value > 100. Line immunoassay analysis revealed moderate-to-weak (equivocal) bands in 27 (4.9%) dogs. CONCLUSIONS Except for a single dog presumed to have been exposed to Anaplasma platys, infection with Anaplasma spp. B. burgdorferi (s.l.), Ehrlichia spp., and Dirofilaria immitis, was not detected in the cohort of Australian dogs evaluated in this study. These results provide further evidence that Lyme borreliosis does not exist in Australia but that cross-reacting antibodies (false positive results) are common and may be caused by the transmission of other tick-associated organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Irwin
- Vector and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia.
| | - Ian D Robertson
- College of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - Mark E Westman
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Martine Perkins
- Pymble Veterinary Clinic, Philip Mall, Kendall Street, West Pymble, New South Wales, 2073, Australia
| | - Reinhard K Straubinger
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Bacteriology and Mycology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 80539, Munich, Germany
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Ability of an oral formulation of afoxolaner to protect dogs from Borrelia burgdorferi infection transmitted by wild Ixodes scapularis ticks. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 49:65-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2016.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Efficacy of sarolaner in the prevention of Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum transmission from infected Ixodes scapularis to dogs. Vet Parasitol 2016; 222:67-72. [PMID: 26906926 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The efficacy of sarolaner (Simparica™, Zoetis) to prevent transmission primarily of Borrelia burgdorferi and secondarily of Anaplasma phagocytophilum from infected wild-caught Ixodes scapularis to dogs was evaluated in a placebo-controlled laboratory study. Twenty-four purpose-bred laboratory Beagles seronegative for B. burgdorferi and A. phagocytophilum antibodies were allocated randomly to one of three treatment groups: placebo administered orally on Days 0 and 7, or sarolaner at 2mg/kg administered orally on Day 0 (28 days prior to tick infestation) or on Day 7 (21 days prior to tick infestation). On Day 28, each dog was infested with approximately 25 female and 25 male wild caught adult I. scapularis that were determined to have prevalence of 57% for B. burgdorferi and 6.7% for A. phagocytophilum by PCR. In situ tick counts were conducted on Days 29 and 30. On Day 33, all ticks were counted and removed. Acaricidal efficacy was calculated based on the reduction of geometric mean live tick counts in the sarolaner-treated groups compared to the placebo-treated group for each tick count. Blood samples collected from each dog on Days 27, 49, 63, 77, 91 and 104 were tested for the presence of B. burgdorferi and A. phagocytophilum antibodies using the SNAP(®) 4Dx(®) Plus Test, and quantitatively assayed for B. burgdorferi antibodies using an ELISA test. Skin biopsies collected on Day 104 were tested for the presence of B. burgdorferi by bacterial culture and PCR. Geometric mean live tick counts for placebo-treated dogs were 14.8, 12.8, and 19.1 on Days 29, 30, and 33, respectively. The percent reductions in mean live tick counts at 1, 2, and 5 days after infestation were 86.3%, 100%, and 100% for the group treated with sarolaner 21 days prior to infestation, and 90.9%, 97.1%, and 100% for the group treated with sarolaner 28 days prior to infestation. Geometric mean live tick counts for both sarolaner-treated groups were significantly lower than those for the placebo group on all count days (P<0.0001). There were no adverse reactions to treatment with sarolaner. Transmission of B. burgdorferi to all eight placebo-treated dogs was confirmed by positive antibody (6 of 8 dogs), PCR (7 of 8 dogs), and/or culture (7 of 8 dogs). Similarly, transmission of A. phagocytophilum was confirmed by the presence of antibodies in four placebo-treated dogs. In contrast, treatment with a single dose of sarolaner prevented transmission of B. burgdorferi from infected ticks to dogs infested 21 or 28 days after treatment as demonstrated by negative antibody, PCR, and culture results. Prevention of transmission of A. phagocytophilum was demonstrated by negative antibody results in all sarolaner-treated dogs.
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Herrmann JA, Dahm NM, Ruiz MO, Brown WM. Temporal and Spatial Distribution of Tick-Borne Disease Cases among Humans and Canines in Illinois (2000-2009). ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSIGHTS 2014; 8:15-27. [PMID: 25452696 PMCID: PMC4227629 DOI: 10.4137/ehi.s16017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Four tick-borne diseases (TBDs), anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease (LD), and Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), are endemic in Illinois. The prevalence of human and canine cases of all four TBDs rose over the study period with significant differences in geographic distribution within the state. Among human cases, there were associations between cases of RMSF and LD and total forest cover, seasonal precipitation, average mean temperature, racial-ethnic groups, and gender. Estimated annual prevalence of three canine TBDs exceeded human TBD cases significantly in each region. There was concordance in the number of human and canine cases by county of residence, in annual prevalence trends, and in time of year at which they were diagnosed. To account for multiple environmental risk factors and to facilitate early diagnosis of cases, integrated surveillance systems must be developed and communication between veterinarians, physicians, and public health agencies must be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Herrmann
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - Marilyn O Ruiz
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - William M Brown
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
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Qurollo BA, Chandrashekar R, Hegarty BC, Beall MJ, Stillman BA, Liu J, Thatcher B, Pultorak E, Cerrito B, Walsh M, Breitschwerdt EB. A serological survey of tick-borne pathogens in dogs in North America and the Caribbean as assessed by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, A. platys, Ehrlichia canis, E. chaffeensis, E. ewingii, and Borrelia burgdorferi species-specific peptides. Infect Ecol Epidemiol 2014; 4:24699. [PMID: 25405006 PMCID: PMC4212082 DOI: 10.3402/iee.v4.24699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2014] [Revised: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tick-borne pathogens cause a spectrum of disease manifestations in both dogs and humans. Recognizing regional and temporal shifts in exposure are important as tick distributions change. To better delineate regional exposure to canine tick-borne pathogens, an expanded set of species-specific peptides were used to detect Anaplasma phagocytophilum (Aph), Anaplasma platys (Apl), Ehrlichia canis (Ec), Ehrlichia chaffeensis (Ech), Ehrlichia ewingii (Eew), and Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb) antibodies in canine serum. Methods Archived canine serum samples (n=6,582) collected during 2008–2010 and in 2012 from the US, Canada, and the Caribbean were retrospectively screened for antibodies against Ehrlichia and Anaplasma species-specific peptides. Overall, regional and temporal seroprevalence rates were determined. Results Overall Bb and Eew were the most seroprevalent pathogens. During 2008–2010, seroprevalence rates increased overall for Aph and Ech, and regionally, Bb and Aph seroprevalence rates increased in the South. Canada had unexpectedly high seroprevalence rates for Ec and Apl. The most common co-exposures were Eew+Ech, followed by Aph+Bb and Eew+Bb. Conclusions This study demonstrated significant shifts in canine vector-borne disease seroprevalence rates. The use of specific peptides facilitated improved geographic delineation of tick-borne pathogen distributions among dogs, which may enhance epidemiological surveillance of vector-borne pathogens shared by dogs and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara A Qurollo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | - Barbara C Hegarty
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Jiayou Liu
- IDEXX Laboratories Inc, Westbrook, ME, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth Pultorak
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Brian Cerrito
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Mary Walsh
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Edward B Breitschwerdt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
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Carmichael RC, Duell JR, Holbrook TC, Herrin BH, Leutenegger CM, O'Connor TP, Little SE. Antibodies Reactive toEhrlichiaspp. Are Common in Oklahoma Horses. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2014; 14:552-6. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2013.1570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert C. Carmichael
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Jason R. Duell
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Todd C. Holbrook
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Brian H. Herrin
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | | | | | - Susan E. Little
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
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18
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Irwin PJ. It shouldn't happen to a dog … or a veterinarian: clinical paradigms for canine vector-borne diseases. Trends Parasitol 2013; 30:104-12. [PMID: 24388563 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2013.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Revised: 11/23/2013] [Accepted: 12/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) comprise a diverse group of viral, bacterial, protozoal, and helminth pathogens, transmitted predominantly by ticks and fleas, and cause significant health problems for dogs worldwide. Growing numbers of reports indicate that CVBDs are emerging in regions where they previously did not exist and this, combined with pathogens that are inherently difficult to detect, is providing companion animal veterinarians with some significant diagnostic challenges. This review discusses six paradigms concerning the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and zoonotic implications of CVBDs from a veterinary clinical perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Irwin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia.
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19
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Gautam R, Srinath I, Clavijo A, Szonyi B, Bani-Yaghoub M, Park S, Ivanek R. Identifying areas of high risk of human exposure to coccidioidomycosis in Texas using serology data from dogs. Zoonoses Public Health 2012; 60:174-81. [PMID: 22856539 DOI: 10.1111/j.1863-2378.2012.01526.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Coccidioidomycosis or Valley Fever (VF) is an emerging soil-borne fungal zoonosis affecting humans and animals. Most non-human cases of VF are found in dogs, which we hypothesize may serve as sentinels for estimating the human exposure risk. The objective of this study is to use the spatial and temporal distribution and clusters of dogs seropositive for VF to define the geographic area in Texas where VF is endemic, and thus presents a higher risk of exposure to humans. The included specimens were seropositive dogs tested at a major diagnostic laboratory between 1999 and 2009. Data were aggregated by zip code and smoothed by empirical Bayesian estimation to develop an isopleth map of VF seropositive rates using kriging. Clusters of seropositive dogs were identified using the spatial scan test. Both the isopleth map and the scan test identified an area with a high rate of VF-seropositive dogs in the western and southwestern parts of Texas (relative risk = 31). This location overlapped an area that was previously identified as a potential endemic region based on human surveys. Together, these data suggest that dogs may serve as sentinels for estimating the risk of human exposure to VF.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Gautam
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
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Mircean V, Dumitrache MO, Györke A, Pantchev N, Jodies R, Mihalca AD, Cozma V. Seroprevalence and Geographic Distribution of Dirofilaria immitis and Tick-Borne Infections (Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, and Ehrlichia canis) in Dogs from Romania. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2012; 12:595-604. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2011.0915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Viorica Mircean
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj, Romania
| | - Mirabela Oana Dumitrache
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj, Romania
| | - Adriana Györke
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj, Romania
| | - Nikola Pantchev
- Vet Med Labor GmbH, Division of IDEXX Laboratories, Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | | | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj, Romania
| | - Vasile Cozma
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj, Romania
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Abstract
To better define areas of human Lyme disease risk, we compared US surveillance data with published data on the seroprevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies among domestic dogs. Canine seroprevalence >5% was a sensitive but nonspecific marker of human risk, whereas seroprevalence <1% was associated with minimal risk for human infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Mead
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA.
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22
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Mead P, Goel R, Kugeler K. Canine serology as adjunct to human Lyme disease surveillance. Emerg Infect Dis 2012; 17:1710-2. [PMID: 21888800 DOI: 10.3201/eid1709.110210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To better define areas of human Lyme disease risk, we compared US surveillance data with published data on the seroprevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies among domestic dogs. Canine seroprevalence >5% was a sensitive but nonspecific marker of human risk, whereas seroprevalence <1% was associated with minimal risk for human infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Mead
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA.
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McCall JW, Baker CF, Mather TN, Chester ST, McCall SD, Irwin JP, Young SL, Cramer LG, Pollmeier MG. The ability of a topical novel combination of fipronil, amitraz and (S)-methoprene to protect dogs from Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum infections transmitted by Ixodes scapularis. Vet Parasitol 2011; 179:335-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.03.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Smith MP, Ponnusamy L, Jiang J, Ayyash LA, Richards AL, Apperson CS. Bacterial Pathogens in Ixodid Ticks from a Piedmont County in North Carolina: Prevalence of Rickettsial Organisms. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2010; 10:939-52. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2009.0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael P. Smith
- Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Loganathan Ponnusamy
- Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Ju Jiang
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Luma Abu Ayyash
- Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Allen L. Richards
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Charles S. Apperson
- Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
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Emerging zoonoses in the southern United States: toxocariasis, bovine tuberculosis and southern tick-associated rash illness. Am J Med Sci 2010; 340:187-93. [PMID: 20697261 DOI: 10.1097/maj.0b013e3181e937e5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The majority of emerging diseases in humans have been linked to zoonotic pathogens originating in domestic animals or wildlife. This is a public health concern because zoonotic infections affect several aspects of the society. The complex interactions among pathogen, host and environment also pose challenges in estimating the true burden of those infections. However, the recent development of new molecular diagnostic tools has allowed for better diagnosis of zoonotic infections. This review focuses on 3 emerging zoonoses, namely toxocariasis, bovine tuberculosis and southern tick-associated rash illness, and demonstrates that these infections may be more prevalent in the southern United States than previously recognized. This review places special emphasis on the recent epidemiologic trends, intra/interspecies transmission and clinical features of each of these zoonoses. In addition, treatment and prevention for each zoonotic pathogen are discussed. Clinicians working in the southern United States should be aware of the presence of those zoonotic infections.
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Little SE, O'Connor TP, Hempstead J, Saucier J, Reichard MV, Meinkoth K, Meinkoth JH, Andrews B, Ullom S, Ewing SA, Chandrashekar R. Ehrlichia ewingii infection and exposure rates in dogs from the southcentral United States. Vet Parasitol 2010; 172:355-60. [PMID: 20541322 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2010] [Revised: 04/06/2010] [Accepted: 05/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We used PCR and a novel serologic assay to determine infection and exposure rates to Ehrlichia ewingii in dogs from an area of northeast Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas where Amblyomma americanum ticks are abundant. Of 143 dogs assayed, 13 (9.1%) harbored E. ewingii by PCR and 64 (44.8%) had antibodies to E. ewingii detected using a peptide-based microtiter plate ELISA. Dogs were more likely (P=0.001) to be positive by PCR if sampled in August (30.8%) but no association was found between seropositive status and month of collection of sample (P>0.05). Additional testing revealed PCR evidence of Ehrlichia chaffeensis (4/143; 2.8%) and Anaplasma platys (5/143; 3.5%) as well as antibodies reactive to E. chaffeensis (25/143; 17.5%), Ehrlichia canis (2/143; 1.4%), and Anaplasma spp. (8/143; 5.6%). Testing of another 200 dogs from the area revealed additional PCR and/or serologic evidence of E. ewingii, E. canis, E. chaffeensis, and A. platys. None of the 343 dogs evaluated had evidence of Borrelia burgdorferi exposure. These data support the interpretation that E. ewingii may be the primary agent of canine ehrlichiosis in this region, and suggest that diagnostic evaluation of dogs suspected to have a tick-borne disease should include assays targeting this organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Little
- Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA.
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27
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Murdock JH, Yabsley MJ, Little SE, Chandrashekar R, O'Connor TP, Caudell JN, Huffman JE, Langenberg JA, Hollamby S. Distribution of antibodies reactive to Borrelia lonestari and Borrelia burgdorferi in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) populations in the eastern United States. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2010; 9:729-36. [PMID: 19874183 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2008.0144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Southern tick-associated rash illness is a Lyme-like syndrome that occurs in the southern states. Borrelia lonestari, which has been suggested as a possible causative agent of southern tick-associated rash illness, naturally infects white-tailed deer (WTD; Odocoileus virginianus) and is transmitted by the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum). To better understand the prevalence and distribution of Borrelia exposure among WTD, we tested WTD from 21 eastern states for antibodies reactive to B. lonestari using an indirect immunofluorescent antibody assay and Borrelia burgdorferi using the IDEXX SNAP 4Dx test. A total of 107/714 (15%) had antibodies reactive to B. lonestari, and prevalence of antibodies was higher in deer from southern states (17.5%) than in deer from northern states (9.2%). Using the SNAP 4DX test, we found that 73/723 (10%) were positive for B. burgdorferi, and significantly more northern deer (23.9%) were positive compared with southern deer (3.8%). Our data demonstrate that WTD are exposed to both Borrelia species, but antibody prevalence for exposure to the two species differs regionally and distributions correlate with the presence of Ixodes scapularis and A. americanum ticks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica H Murdock
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
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28
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Little SE, Heise SR, Blagburn BL, Callister SM, Mead PS. Lyme borreliosis in dogs and humans in the USA. Trends Parasitol 2010; 26:213-8. [PMID: 20207198 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2010.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2009] [Revised: 01/15/2010] [Accepted: 01/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto is the only established etiologic agent of Lyme borreliosis in dogs and in humans in North America. Lyme borreliosis differs in dogs and humans in terms of clinical outcome following infection, diagnostic approaches, prevention strategies and treatment recommendations. Nonetheless, serologic evidence of exposure of dogs to B. burgdorferi agrees with the geographical distribution of autochthonous transmission of the agent of Lyme borreliosis, and continued monitoring of exposure rates in dogs might allow early recognition of geographic expansion of endemic areas as well as identify hyperendemic areas where both humans and dogs are at increased risk of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Little
- Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
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29
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Diniz PPV, Beall MJ, Omark K, Chandrashekar R, Daniluk DA, Cyr KE, Koterski JF, Robbins RG, Lalo PG, Hegarty BC, Breitschwerdt EB. High Prevalence of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Dogs from an Indian Reservation in Northeastern Arizona. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2010; 10:117-23. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2008.0184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Paulo V.P. Diniz
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | | | | | | | | | | | - James F. Koterski
- United States Army Medical Research Institute for Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Fort Detrick, Maryland
| | - Richard G. Robbins
- Defense Pest Management Information Analysis Center (DPMIAC)/Armed Forces Pest Management Board (AFPMB), Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Barbara C. Hegarty
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Edward B. Breitschwerdt
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
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30
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Jimenez-Coello M, Ortega-Pacheco A, Guzman-Marin E, Guiris-Andrade DM, Martinez-Figueroa L, Acosta-Viana KY. Stray Dogs as Reservoirs of the Zoonotic AgentsLeptospira interrogans,Trypanosoma cruzi, andAspergillusspp. in an Urban Area of Chiapas in Southern Mexico. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2010; 10:135-41. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2008.0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Matilde Jimenez-Coello
- Departamento de Biomedicina de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias Laboratorio de Biología Celular, CIR “Dr Hideyo Noguchi,” Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Yucatan, México
| | - Antonio Ortega-Pacheco
- Departamento de Medicina Interna y Cirugía, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Yucatan, México
| | - Eugenia Guzman-Marin
- Departamento de Biomedicina de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias Laboratorio de Biología Celular, CIR “Dr Hideyo Noguchi,” Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Yucatan, México
| | - Dario M. Guiris-Andrade
- Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Chiapas, Chiapas, México
| | - Laura Martinez-Figueroa
- Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Chiapas, Chiapas, México
| | - Karla Y. Acosta-Viana
- Departamento de Biomedicina de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias Laboratorio de Biología Celular, CIR “Dr Hideyo Noguchi,” Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Yucatan, México
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31
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Occurrence of Dirofilaria immitis and Tick-Borne Infections Caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and Ehrlichia canis in Domestic Dogs in France: Results of a Countrywide Serologic Survey. Parasitol Res 2009; 105 Suppl 1:S101-14. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-009-1501-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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33
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Ogden NH, Lindsay LR, Morshed M, Sockett PN, Artsob H. The emergence of Lyme disease in Canada. CMAJ 2009; 180:1221-4. [PMID: 19506281 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.080148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas H Ogden
- Foodborne, Environmental and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Saint-Hyacinthe, Que.
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34
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Managing canine vector-borne diseases of zoonotic concern: part two. Trends Parasitol 2009; 25:228-35. [PMID: 19346164 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2009.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2008] [Revised: 01/15/2009] [Accepted: 02/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Despite recent achievements in scientific knowledge related to canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) of zoonotic concern, their management is still impaired by several neglected issues related to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of both single and co-infections. A better understanding of the pathogenesis and the progression of clinical, hematological and biochemical abnormalities of CVBDs will be important in choosing appropriate diagnostic tests and in establishing the best strategies for treatment and control. Nonetheless, the diagnosis and control of zoonotic infections in clinically healthy dogs remain challenging. This review discusses the crucial aspects involved in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control of CVBDs of zoonotic concern.
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35
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Hamer SA, Tsao JI, Walker ED, Mansfield LS, Foster ES, Hickling GJ. Use of tick surveys and serosurveys to evaluate pet dogs as a sentinel species for emerging Lyme disease. Am J Vet Res 2009; 70:49-56. [PMID: 19119948 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.70.1.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate dogs as a sentinel species for emergence of Lyme disease in a region undergoing invasion by Ixodes scapularis. SAMPLE POPULATION 353 serum samples and 78 ticks obtained from dogs brought to 18 veterinary clinics located in the lower peninsula of Michigan from July 15, 2005, through August 15, 2005. PROCEDURES Serum samples were evaluated for specific antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi by use of 3 serologic assays. Ticks from dogs were subjected to PCR assays for detection of pathogens. RESULTS Of 353 serum samples from dogs in 18 counties in 2005, only 2 (0.6%) contained western blot analysis-confirmed antibodies against B burgdorferi. Ten of 13 dogs with I scapularis were from clinics within or immediately adjacent to the known tick invasion zone. Six of 18 I scapularis and 12 of 60 noncompetent vector ticks were infected with B burgdorferi. No ticks were infected with Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and 3 were infected with Babesia spp. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Serosurvey in dogs was found to be ineffective in tracking early invasion dynamics of I scapularis in this area. Tick chemoprophylaxis likely reduces serosurvey sensitivity in dogs. Ticks infected with B burgdorferi were more common and widely dispersed than seropositive dogs. In areas of low tick density, use of dogs as a source of ticks is preferable to serosurvey for surveillance of emerging Lyme disease. IMPACT FOR HUMAN MEDICINE By retaining ticks from dogs for identification and pathogen testing, veterinarians can play an important role in early detection in areas with increasing risk of Lyme disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Hamer
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, College of Agricultural and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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36
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Bowman D, Little SE, Lorentzen L, Shields J, Sullivan MP, Carlin EP. Prevalence and geographic distribution of Dirofilaria immitis, Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in dogs in the United States: results of a national clinic-based serologic survey. Vet Parasitol 2008; 160:138-48. [PMID: 19150176 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2008.10.093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2008] [Revised: 09/22/2008] [Accepted: 10/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
We evaluated a comprehensive national database that documents canine infection with, or exposure to, four vector-borne disease agents, Dirofilaria immitis, Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in order to assess geographic trends in rates of positive tests. While the percent positive test results varied by agent in different regions of the United States, with D. immitis antigen and antibodies to E. canis more commonly identified in dogs from the South (3.9% and 1.3%, respectively), and antibody to B. burgdorferi and A. phagocytophilum found more frequently in dogs from the upper Midwest and Northeast (4.0-6.7% and 5.5-11.6%, respectively), evidence of at least one agent was found in dogs from every state considered. Furthermore, each organism also appeared to occur in endemic foci within larger areas of relatively low prevalence. Relocation of infected or previously exposed dogs from endemic regions likely accounts for some of the unexpected geographic distribution seen, although local transmission in previously under-recognized areas of endemicity could also be occurring. Although data were only available from the 48 contiguous states (Alaska and Hawaii were not included), taken together, our results suggest that these disease agents may be present over a wider geographic area, and thus pose greater animal and public health risks, than is currently recognized. Dogs can serve as sentinels to identify the presence of vector-borne disease agents of both veterinary and public health significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwight Bowman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, C4-119 Veterinary Medical Center, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States.
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37
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de Paiva Diniz PPV, Schwartz DS, de Morais HSA, Breitschwerdt EB. Surveillance for Zoonotic Vector-Borne Infections Using Sick Dogs from Southeastern Brazil. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2007; 7:689-97. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2007.0129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Paulo Vissotto de Paiva Diniz
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Denise Saretta Schwartz
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (FMVZ-UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Edward Bealmear Breitschwerdt
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, Center for Comparative Medicine and Translational Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
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38
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Quantitative measurement of C6 antibody following antibiotic treatment of Borrelia burgdorferi antibody-positive nonclinical dogs. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2007; 15:115-9. [PMID: 18003819 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00340-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The detection of antibody to the Borrelia burgdorferi C6 peptide by use of enzyme-linked immunoassays is a widely accepted method for the diagnosis of Lyme disease spirochete infection in dogs and in humans. Antibody to the C6 peptide is highly specific for B. burgdorferi and declines following treatment of dogs and humans exposed to B. burgdorferi. A quantitative assay for determining C6 antibody levels was developed and used to measure changes in antibody levels following antibiotic treatment of B. burgdorferi antibody-positive nonclinical dogs. One hundred thirty-two client-owned dogs were used in the study; 64 were negative, 53 of 68 positive animals received treatment, and 15 were untreated controls. Test sera were collected at 3, 6, and 12 months from seropositive dogs receiving treatment and untreated controls. Dogs in the treated group were assigned to moderate-to-high (> or =29 U/ml)- and low (<29 U/ml)-C6-level groups because the change in the C6 level after treatment was dependent on the level prior to treatment. There were significant declines in the 30 dogs with moderate-to-high initial C6 levels that exceeded the maximal declines of the untreated control dogs in all cases at 6 months (16 data points) and 12 months (29 data points) posttreatment. There was little change in C6 level following antibiotic therapy in the 23 dogs with low initial C6 levels. The quantitative C6 antibody test can be used to measure changes in C6 antibody levels following treatment of antibody-positive nonclinical dogs.
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39
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Raghavan M, Glickman N, Moore G, Caldanaro R, Lewis H, Glickman L. Prevalence of and risk factors for canine tick infestation in the United States, 2002-2004. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2007; 7:65-75. [PMID: 17417959 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2006.0570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of the geographic range and seasonal activity of vector ticks is important for determining which people or animals are at risk of acquiring tick-borne infections. Several time-consuming methods requiring large-scale organization are used to map geographic and seasonal variations in tick distribution. A cost-effective, complementary approach to study tick distribution using a large nation-wide veterinary database is described in this paper. Prevalence of canine tick infestation in 40 states was estimated by analyzing electronic medical records of more than 8 million dog visits to Banfield veterinary hospitals in 2002-2004. Prevalence was defined as the proportion of dog visits in which tick infestation was recorded, and was expressed per 10,000 dog visits with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The overall prevalence (CI) of tick infestation was 52 (51, 53) dogs per 10,000 dog visits. Among states, Oklahoma (249 [229, 271) dogs with ticks per 10,000 dog-visits), Arkansas (242 [213, 274]), Connecticut (136 [119, 155]), West Virginia (130 [105, 161]), and Rhode Island (122 [97, 154]) ranked highest in prevalence of canine tick infestation. Overall prevalence peaked from May through July, although monthly prevalence varied by geographic region. In multiple logistic regression, younger dogs, male dogs, and sexually intact dogs, were at increased risk of tick infestation. Toy breeds were least likely to be infested, but no linear pattern of risk was evident with body weight. Identified risk factors should enable veterinarians to prevent tick infestation in pet dogs although differences in risk of tick infestation may be related to outdoor activity of dogs. Feasibility of collecting information for surveillance of vectors ticks on a national level using this large, electronic veterinary database is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malathi Raghavan
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA.
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40
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Coffey LL, Crawford C, Dee J, Miller R, Freier J, Weaver SC. Serologic evidence of widespread everglades virus activity in dogs, Florida. Emerg Infect Dis 2007; 12:1873-9. [PMID: 17326938 PMCID: PMC3291350 DOI: 10.3201/eid1212.060446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Everglades virus (EVEV), an alphavirus in the Venezuelan equine encephalitis complex, circulates among rodents and vector mosquitoes in Florida and occasionally infects humans. It causes febrile disease, sometimes accompanied by neurologic manifestations. Although previous surveys showed high seroprevalence in humans, EVEV infections may be underdiagnosed because the disease is not severe enough to warrant a clinic visit or the undifferentiated presentations complicate diagnosis. Documented EVEV activity, as recent as 1993, was limited to south Florida. Using dogs as sentinels, a serosurvey was conducted to evaluate whether EVEV circulated recently in Florida and whether EVEV's spatial distribution parallels that of the mosquito vector, Culex cedecei. Four percent of dog sera contained neutralizing EVEV antibodies, and many seropositive animals lived farther north than both recorded EVEV activity and the principal vector. These results indicate that EVEV is widespread in Florida and may be an important, unrecognized cause of human illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lark L. Coffey
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | | | - James Dee
- Hollywood Animal Hospital, Hollywood, Florida, USA
| | - Ryan Miller
- Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Jerome Freier
- Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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41
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Philipp MT, Masters E, Wormser GP, Hogrefe W, Martin D. Serologic evaluation of patients from Missouri with erythema migrans-like skin lesions with the C6 Lyme test. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2007; 13:1170-1. [PMID: 17028220 PMCID: PMC1595329 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00238-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI), also known as Masters disease, affects people predominantly in the Southeast and South Central United States. These patients exhibit skin lesions that resemble erythema migrans (EM), the characteristic skin lesion in early Lyme disease. The etiology of STARI remains unknown, and no serologic test is available to aid in its diagnosis. The C6 Lyme enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to evaluate coded serum specimens from patients with STARI at two laboratory sites. The specimens tested at one site consisted of acute- and convalescent-phase samples that were obtained from nine STARI patients from Missouri and from one patient with documented Borrelia lonestari infection who acquired this infection in either North Carolina or Maryland. All of these samples were C6 negative. Seventy acute- or convalescent-phase specimens from 63 STARI patients from Missouri were C6 tested at the second site. All but one of these STARI specimens were also negative. In contrast, of nine acute- and nine convalescent-phase serum specimens obtained from culture-confirmed Lyme disease patients with EM from New York state, seven were C6 positive at the acute stage, and eight were positive at convalescence. The C6 test is negative in patients with STARI, providing further evidence that B. burgdorferi is not the etiologic agent of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario T Philipp
- Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, 18703 Three Rivers Road, Covington, LA 70433, USA.
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42
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Littman MP, Goldstein RE, Labato MA, Lappin MR, Moore GE. ACVIM Small Animal Consensus Statement on Lyme Disease in Dogs: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention. J Vet Intern Med 2006. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2006.tb02880.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Philipp MT, Wormser GP, Marques AR, Bittker S, Martin DS, Nowakowski J, Dally LG. A decline in C6 antibody titer occurs in successfully treated patients with culture-confirmed early localized or early disseminated Lyme Borreliosis. CLINICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY IMMUNOLOGY 2005; 12:1069-74. [PMID: 16148173 PMCID: PMC1235797 DOI: 10.1128/cdli.12.9.1069-1074.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
C(6), a Borrelia burgdorferi-derived peptide, is used as the antigen in the C(6)-Lyme disease diagnostic test. We assessed retrospectively whether a fourfold decrease or a decrease to a negative value in anti-C(6) antibody titer is positively correlated with a positive response to treatment in a sample of culture-confirmed patients with either early localized (single erythema migrans [EM]; n=93) or early disseminated (multiple EM; n=27) disease. All of these patients had been treated with antibiotics and were free of disease within 6 to 12 months of follow-up. Results show that a serum specimen taken at this time was either C(6) negative or had a >or=4-fold decrease in C(6) antibody titer with respect to a specimen taken at baseline (or during the early convalescent period if the baseline specimen was C(6) negative) for all of the multiple-EM patients (P<0.0001) and in 89% of the single-EM patients (P<0.0001). These results indicate that a decline in anti-C(6) antibody titer coincides with effective antimicrobial therapy in patients with early localized or early disseminated Lyme borreliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario T Philipp
- Department of Bacteriology and Parasitology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA.
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