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Ichikawa T, Qiu Y, Ando S, Takeuchi Y, Nagasaka A. The case of Mediterranean spotted fever of the traveler returned from Zambia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2024; 15:102347. [PMID: 38714072 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2024.102347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
We report the case of a traveler who returned from Zambia and was diagnosed with Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF), an infectious disease caused by Rickettsia conorii conorii. The patient presented to Sapporo City General Hospital with symptoms of fever, malaise, headache, and rash. The pathogen was identified by Polymerase Chain Reaction assays and subsequent analyses. The patient improved with 10-day treatment of oral doxycycline. Although some cases of MSF have been reported in sub-Saharan Africa, none have been reported in Zambia. Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, the vector of the Rickettsia conorii conorii, has been found in various areas of Zambia. Our case report highlights the potential threat of Mediterranean spotted fever in urban areas of Zambia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Ichikawa
- Sapporo City General Hospital Department of Infectious Diseases, 13-1-1, Kita-11-jonishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8604, Japan.
| | - Yongjin Qiu
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo: Kita 8, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0808, Japan
| | - Shuji Ando
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640, Japan
| | - Yuto Takeuchi
- Sapporo City General Hospital Department of Infectious Diseases, 13-1-1, Kita-11-jonishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8604, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nagasaka
- Sapporo City General Hospital Department of Infectious Diseases, 13-1-1, Kita-11-jonishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8604, Japan
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Survey of Ticks and Tick-Borne Rickettsial and Protozoan Pathogens in Eswatini. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10081043. [PMID: 34451507 PMCID: PMC8401679 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10081043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are widespread parasites of vertebrates and major vectors of pathogens to humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. In southern Africa, numerous tick species transmit diseases of economic and health importance. This study aimed to describe the occurrence of ticks and tick-borne pathogens in multiple land-use types and the possible role of ticks in the transmission of pathogen species. Using molecular techniques, we screened 1716 ticks for infection by rickettsial bacteria and protozoans. To characterize pathogen identity, we sequenced multiple loci from positive samples and analyzed sequences within a phylogenetic framework. Across the seven tick species collected as nymphs or adults, we detected Rickettsia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Babesia, Hepatozoon, and Theileira species. We found that some tick species and tick-borne pathogens differed according to land use. For example, we found a higher density of Haemaphysalis elliptica and higher prevalence of Rickettsia in H. elliptica collected from savanna grasses used for livestock grazing near human settlements than savanna grasses in conservation areas. These findings highlight the importance of comprehensive surveillance to achieve a full understanding of the diversity and ecology of the tick-borne pathogens that can infect humans, domestic animals, and wildlife.
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Kim SW, Kim CM, Kim DM, Yun NR. Case Report: Coinfection with Rickettsia monacensis and Orientia tsutsugamushi. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 101:332-335. [PMID: 31219004 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Rickettsia monacensis and Orientia tsutsugamushi are bacteria of the family Rickettsiaceae, which causes fever, rash, and eschar formation; outdoor activities are a risk factor for Rickettsiaceae infection. A 75-year-old woman presented with fever, rash, and eschar and was confirmed as being scrub typhus based on a nested-polymerase chain reaction (N-PCR) test for a 56-kDa gene of O. tsutsugamushi; the genome was identified as the Boryong genotype. In addition, a pan-Rickettsia real-time PCR test was positive and a N-PCR test using a Rickettsia-specific partial outer membrane protein A (rOmpA) confirmed R. monacensis. This is the first case wherein a patient suspected of having scrub typhus owing to the presence of rash and eschar was also found to be coinfected with O. tsutsugamushi and R. monacensis based on molecular testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok Won Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Mee Kim
- Premedical Science, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Min Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Na Ra Yun
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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Jiang Y, Hou X, Zhang L, Tan Y, Lu C, Xiao D, Li H, Hao Q, Wan K. Case report: A patient coinfected by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and spotted fever group Rickettsiae in Urumqi, China. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e17977. [PMID: 31725662 PMCID: PMC6867798 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000017977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Both Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and spotted fever group Rickettsiae (SFGR) are pathogens carried by ticks. There is a possibility of co-infection with these tick-borne diseases. PATIENT CONCERNS Male patient, 63 years-of-age, admitted to hospital with skin rash presenting for 1 week and fever with cough and expectoration for 3 days before admission. DIAGNOSES We diagnosed that the patient was co-infected by B burgdorferi sl and SFGR using laboratory test results and the patient's clinical manifestations. INTERVENTIONS The patient started therapy with oral minocycline, then levofloxacin by intravenous injection for SFGR. Meanwhile, he was treated with penicillin G sodium, cefoperazone sulbactam sodium and ceftriaxone by intravenous injection for B burgdorferi sl. OUTCOMES After the patient was in stable condition, he was discharged from hospital. LESSONS This case report highlights the possibility of co-infection by 2 tick-borne diseases in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. The antibiotic therapy should be based on the detection of pathogenic bacteria, and the different susceptibilities of co-infecting bacteria should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Jiang
- National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention / State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou
| | - Xuexia Hou
- National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention / State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou
| | - Lin Zhang
- National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention / State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou
| | - Yuhui Tan
- Department of Neurology, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Hospital, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Chen Lu
- Department of Neurology, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Hospital, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Dong Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Hospital, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Neurology, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Hospital, Urumqi, PR China
| | - Qin Hao
- National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention / State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou
| | - Kanglin Wan
- National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention / State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou
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Hansford KM, Carter D, Gillingham EL, Hernandez-Triana LM, Chamberlain J, Cull B, McGinley L, Paul Phipps L, Medlock JM. Hyalomma rufipes on an untraveled horse: Is this the first evidence of Hyalomma nymphs successfully moulting in the United Kingdom? Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2019; 10:704-708. [PMID: 30876825 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
During September 2018, a tick was submitted to Public Health England's Tick Surveillance Scheme for identification. The tick was sent from a veterinarian who removed it from a horse in Dorset, England, with no history of overseas travel. The tick was identified as a male Hyalomma rufipes using morphological and molecular methods and then tested for a range of tick-borne pathogens including; Alkhurma virus, Anaplasma, Babesia, Bhanja virus, Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic fever virus, Rickettsia and Theileria. The tick tested positive for Rickettsia aeschlimannii, a spotted fever group rickettsia linked to a number of human cases in Africa and Europe. This is the first time H. rufipes has been reported in the United Kingdom (UK), and the lack of travel by the horse (or any in-contact horses) suggests that this could also be the first evidence of successful moulting of a Hyalomma nymph in the UK. It is postulated that the tick was imported into the UK on a migratory bird as an engorged nymph which was able to complete its moult to the adult stage and find a host. This highlights that passive tick surveillance remains an important method for the detection of unusual species that may present a threat to public health in the UK. Horses are important hosts of Hyalomma sp. adults in their native range, therefore, further surveillance studies should be conducted to check horses for ticks in the months following spring bird migration; when imported nymphs may have had time to drop off their avian host and moult to adults. The potential human and animal health risks of such events occurring more regularly are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayleigh M Hansford
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology Group, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK; NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, UK.
| | - Daniel Carter
- Diagnostic and Genomic Technologies, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK; NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, UK
| | - Emma L Gillingham
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology Group, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK; NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, UK
| | - Luis M Hernandez-Triana
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, UK
| | - John Chamberlain
- Virology & Pathogenesis, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK
| | - Benjamin Cull
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology Group, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK
| | - Liz McGinley
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology Group, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK
| | - L Paul Phipps
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, UK
| | - Jolyon M Medlock
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology Group, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK; NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health, UK; Virology & Pathogenesis, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK
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Johnson KR, Schupack DA, Virk A. 31-Year-Old South African Man With Fever and Headache. Mayo Clin Proc 2019; 94:336-340. [PMID: 30638625 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2018.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly R Johnson
- Resident in Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Rochester, MN
| | - Daniel A Schupack
- Resident in Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Rochester, MN
| | - Abinash Virk
- Advisor to residents and Consultant in Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
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Halajian A, Palomar AM, Portillo A, Heyne H, Romero L, Oteo JA. Detection of zoonotic agents and a new Rickettsia strain in ticks from donkeys from South Africa: Implications for travel medicine. Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 26:43-50. [PMID: 30312734 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In rural South Africa, people are in close contact with tick-infested donkeys. This study aimed to investigate the presence of spotted fever group Rickettsia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia and Coxiella species in these arthropods. METHOD 376 ticks (7 species) from donkeys from Limpopo Province (South Africa) were pooled and analyzed using PCR assays for the bacterium detection. RESULTS Rickettsia africae was amplified in 6 Amblyomma hebraeum, 1 Rhipicephalus appendiculatus and 5 Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi pools. Rickettsia aeschlimannii was found in 1 Hyalomma rufipes, 1 Rh. appendiculatus and 2 Rh. e. evertsi pools. Three Rhipicephalus simus specimens were infected with a new Rickettsia strain that showed low identity with any validated Rickettsia species. Ehrlichia canis was detected in 2 Rh. e. evertsi pools and in one of them Anaplasma bovis was amplified. An Am. hebraeum pool showed infection with Anaplasma ovis and another with Coxiella burnetii. CONCLUSION South African donkeys are involved in the epidemiology of tick-borne pathogens and other associated agents such as C. burnetii with Health importance. A potential new Rickettsia species, with unknown pathogenic potential, has been detected in the anthropophilic Rh. simus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Halajian
- Department of Biodiversity (Zoology), University of Limpopo, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa.
| | - Ana M Palomar
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain.
| | - Aránzazu Portillo
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain.
| | - Heloise Heyne
- Epidemiology, Parasites & Vectors (EPV), ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research (ARC-OVR), South Africa.
| | - Lourdes Romero
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain.
| | - José A Oteo
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain.
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Ocias LF, Jensen BB, Villumsen S, Lebech AM, Skarphedinsson S, Dessau RB, Krogfelt KA. Rickettsioses in Denmark: A retrospective survey of clinical features and travel history. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 9:573-579. [PMID: 29415864 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Rickettsia spp. can be found across the globe and cause disease of varying clinical severity, ranging from life-threatening infections with widespread vasculitis to milder, more localized presentations. Vector and, to some degree, reservoir are hematophagous arthropods, with most species harboured by ticks. In Denmark, rickettsiae are known as a cause of imported travel-related infections, but are also found endemically in ticks across the country. Data are, however, lacking on the geographical origin and clinical features of diagnosed cases. In this study, we have examined the travel history and clinical features of two groups of patients; 1) hospital-patients diagnosed with rickettsioses in the years 2010-2015 and 2) patients from primary health care (PHC) centers in Denmark having demonstrated anti-rickettsia antibodies in the years 2012-2015. The patients were identified using the Danish National Patient Registry (DNPR) and through the serological database at the State Serum Institute, where the laboratory diagnosis of rickettsioses is currently centralized. Data were collected for 86 hospital patients and 26 PHC center patients by reviewing hospital medical records and performing telephone interviews with PHC centers. Of the hospital patients, 91% (78/86) had a history of international travel 14 days prior to symptom start, with most having imported their infection from southern Africa, South Africa in particular (65%), and presenting with a clinical picture most compatible with African tick-bite fever caused by R. africae. Only two patients presented with a CRP > 100 mg/L and no mortalities were reported. At the PHC centers, most patients presented with mild flu-like symptoms and had an unknown (50%) or no history (19%) of international travel, raising the possibility of endemic rickettsioses. In view of our findings, rickettsioses do not appear to constitute a major public health problem in Denmark, with most cases being imported infections and potential endemic cases presenting as mild infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Frans Ocias
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 København S, Denmark; Department of Clinical Microbiology, Slagelse Hospital, Ingemannsvej 46, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark; ScandTick Innovation Study Group.
| | - Bo Bødker Jensen
- Clinical Center for Emerging and Vector-Borne Infections, Odense University Hospital, Søndre Blvd. 29, 5000 Odense, Denmark; Institute for Regional Health Research, Center of Southern Jutland, University of Southern Denmark, Winsløwparken 19, 3, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Steen Villumsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
| | - Anne-Mette Lebech
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre University Hospital, Kettegård Alle 30, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Sigurdur Skarphedinsson
- Clinical Center for Emerging and Vector-Borne Infections, Odense University Hospital, Søndre Blvd. 29, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Ram Benny Dessau
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Slagelse Hospital, Ingemannsvej 46, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark; ScandTick Innovation Study Group
| | - Karen Angeliki Krogfelt
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 København S, Denmark; ScandTick Innovation Study Group
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Essbauer S, Hofmann M, Kleinemeier C, Wölfel S, Matthee S. Rickettsia diversity in southern Africa: A small mammal perspective. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 9:288-301. [PMID: 29174365 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, including Africa, rickettsioses are recognized as emerging or re-emerging infections. To date, little is known about the diversity of Rickettsia species that are naturally associated with small mammals in southern Africa. The aim of the study was to screen a diversity of small mammals for the presence of rickettsial DNA. Animals were trapped at 38 localities in South Africa and Namibia. In total, 1616 ear-tissue samples from 23 species representing 17 genera were tested using real-time (rt)PCR and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST). Of the 1616 samples 251 (15.5%) were positive in an initial rtPCR. In 16 of the 23 investigated animal species rickettsial DNA was detected with an average prevalence of 15.7%. We herein describe for the first time four Rickettsia (R.) species known to be pathogenic for humans in rodents from South Africa, R. conorii, R. massiliae, R. felis and R. helvetica. In addition, by MLST and subsequent phylogenetic analyses so far undescribed Rickettsia species, Candidatus Rickettsia africaustralis, Candidatus Rickettsia rhabdomydis, and Candidatus Rickettsia muridii were confirmed. Further four new genotypes, genotype Rickettsia hofmannii, genotype Rickettsia stutterheimensis, genotype Rickettsia hogsbackensis and genotype Rickettsia kaalplaasensis, respectively, are described. The data indicate a surprisingly high diversity of Rickettsia in small mammals in South Africa and might indicate their possible role as reservoirs for Rickettsia. Ecological questions concerning their natural hosts such as small mammals, but also the role of livestock or pet animals, require further investigation. Particularly, data on the relevance of these rickettsiae for diseases in humans are of further interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Essbauer
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstr. 11, 80937 Muenchen, Germany.
| | - Mirja Hofmann
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstr. 11, 80937 Muenchen, Germany
| | - Christoph Kleinemeier
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstr. 11, 80937 Muenchen, Germany
| | - Silke Wölfel
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstr. 11, 80937 Muenchen, Germany
| | - Sonja Matthee
- Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
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Noden BH, Soni M. Vector-borne diseases of small companion animals in Namibia: Literature review, knowledge gaps and opportunity for a One Health approach. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2015; 86:1307. [PMID: 26824340 PMCID: PMC6138184 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v86i1.1307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Namibia has a rich history in veterinary health but little is known about the vector-borne diseases that affect companion dogs and cats. The aim of this review is to summarise the existing published and available unpublished literature, put it into a wider geographical context, and explore some significant knowledge gaps. To date, only two filarial pathogens (Dirofilaria repens and Acanthocheilonema dracunculoides) and three tick-borne pathogens (Babesia canis vogeli, Hepatozoon canis and Ehrlichia canis) have been reported. Most studies have focused solely on dogs and cats in the urban Windhoek and surrounding areas, with almost nothing reported in rural farming areas, in either the populous northern regions or the low-income urban areas where animal owners have limited access to veterinary services. With the development of several biomedical training programmes in the country, there is now an excellent opportunity to address zoonotic vector-borne diseases through a One Health approach so as to assess the risks to small companion animals as well as diseases of public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce H Noden
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University.
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Noden BH, Tshavuka FI, van der Colf BE, Chipare I, Wilkinson R. Exposure and risk factors to coxiella burnetii, spotted fever group and typhus group Rickettsiae, and Bartonella henselae among volunteer blood donors in Namibia. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108674. [PMID: 25259959 PMCID: PMC4178180 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of pathogen-mediated febrile illness in sub-Saharan Africa is receiving more attention, especially in Southern Africa where four countries (including Namibia) are actively working to eliminate malaria. With a high concentration of livestock and high rates of companion animal ownership, the influence of zoonotic bacterial diseases as causes of febrile illness in Namibia remains unknown. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The aim of the study was to evaluate exposure to Coxiella burnetii, spotted fever and typhus group rickettsiae, and Bartonella henselae using IFA and ELISA (IgG) in serum collected from 319 volunteer blood donors identified by the Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia (NAMBTS). Serum samples were linked to a basic questionnaire to identify possible risk factors. The majority of the participants (64.8%) had extensive exposure to rural areas or farms. Results indicated a C. burnetii prevalence of 26.1% (screening titre 1∶16), and prevalence rates of 11.9% and 14.9% (screening titre 1∶100) for spotted fever group and typhus group rickettsiae, respectively. There was a significant spatial association between C. burnetii exposure and place of residence in southern Namibia (P<0.021). Donors with occupations involving animals (P>0.012), especially cattle (P>0.006), were also significantly associated with C. burnetii exposure. Males were significantly more likely than females to have been exposed to spotted fever (P<0.013) and typhus (P<0.011) group rickettsiae. Three (2.9%) samples were positive for B. henselae possibly indicating low levels of exposure to a pathogen never reported in Namibia. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE These results indicate that Namibians are exposed to pathogenic fever-causing bacteria, most of which have flea or tick vectors/reservoirs. The epidemiology of febrile illnesses in Namibia needs further evaluation in order to develop comprehensive local diagnostic and treatment algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce H. Noden
- Department of Biomedical Science, Polytechnic of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | | | | | | | - Rob Wilkinson
- Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
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Neglected tropical diseases of Namibia: unsolved mysteries. Acta Trop 2013; 125:1-17. [PMID: 23006744 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2012.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2012] [Revised: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are diseases most commonly found in settings of poverty and are responsible for the morbidity and/or mortality of millions each year. As an upper-middle income country, Namibia is not normally considered to have many NTDs but published reports indicate the possible presence of over 30. Because much of the data is buried in historical studies published before Independence in 1990, there is a risk of losing valuable information on which to build current and future integrated public health strategies. The purpose of this review, therefore, is to bring together these significant fragments to identify existing knowledge gaps which need to be addressed to build effective control, prevention, and even elimination strategies. The review focuses on intestinal helminthes, schistosomes/snail 'vectors', viruses (Rift Valley Fever, Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, rabies), protozoa (Leishmania, Toxoplasma, Amoeba, Giardia), bacteria (Rickettsia, Ehrlichia, Leptospira, Coxiella, Brucella, and Borrelia), fungi (Pneumocystis) and myiasis. Each NTD speaks to the possible need for surveillance and the creation of integrated disease risk maps, linking prevalence of related NTDs with environmental and ecological factors to assist control and prevention efforts. The predominance of zoonotic disease suggests a need to integrate veterinary and public health components as the national public health surveillance system is established.
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Abstract
Vector-borne diseases are caused by parasites, bacteria, or viruses transmitted by the bites of hematophagous arthropods. In Africa, there has been a recent emergence of new diseases and the re-emergence of existing diseases, usually with changes in disease epidemiology (e.g., geographical distribution, prevalence, and pathogenicity). In Africa, rickettsioses are recognized as important emerging vector-borne infections in humans. Rickettsial diseases are transmitted by different types of arthropods, ticks, fleas, lice, and mites. This review will examine the roles of these different arthropod vectors and their geographical distributions.
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McQuade J, Cather JC. Fever and malaise associated with a painful papule on the ankle. Proc (Bayl Univ Med Cent) 2006; 19:49-51. [PMID: 16424931 PMCID: PMC1325282 DOI: 10.1080/08998280.2006.11928125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer McQuade
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Rydkina E, Silverman DJ, Sahni SK. Activation of p38 stress-activated protein kinase during Rickettsia rickettsii infection of human endothelial cells: role in the induction of chemokine response. Cell Microbiol 2005; 7:1519-30. [PMID: 16153249 DOI: 10.1111/j.1462-5822.2005.00574.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rickettsia rickettsii, a Gram-negative and obligate intracellular bacterium, preferentially infects the vascular endothelium during human infections leading to inflammation and dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine whether R. rickettsii infection of endothelial cells (EC) activates p38 and/or c-jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, key regulatory proteins that control the response to inflammatory stimuli. We show that infection of cultured human EC results in the dose-dependent activation of p38, as assessed by increased phosphorylation and activity, without affecting the status of JNK. Rickettsia inactivation by heat or formaldehyde abolished the activation of p38 kinase and inhibition of cellular invasion by infection at low temperature, pre-treatment of host EC with cytochalasin D, or pre-incubation of rickettsiae with an irreversible phospholipase inhibitor led to a diminished p38 phosphorylation, suggesting requirement of invasion by viable rickettsiae for this host cell response. SB 203580, a p38-specific inhibitor, had no effect on infection-induced activation of the ubiquitous transcriptional regulator nuclear factor-kappa B, but effectively reduced the expression and secretion of important chemoattractant cytokines interleukin (IL)-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 by R. rickettsii-infected EC. Selective inhibition of p38 activity may be exploited as an anti-inflammatory target to prevent rickettsial vasculitis and to develop new and improved chemotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Rydkina
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY, USA
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