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Murnik LC, Schmäschke R, Bernhard A, Thielebein J, Eulenberger K, Barownick N, Gawlowska S, Delling C. Parasitological examination results of zoo animals in Germany between 2012 and 2022. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 24:100942. [PMID: 38778918 PMCID: PMC11109899 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2024.100942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Parasitic infections in zoo animals are a critical concern for both animal health and management. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of endo- and ectoparasites among zoo animals in Germany. A retrospective analysis of the submitted samples of a diverse range of zoo animals (5768) from a ten-year period (2012-2022) was conducted. Overall, 31.1% of those samples tested positive for at least one parasite. In the examined samples, helminths (28.4%) were found more often than protozoans (10.3%) or ectoparasites (0.8%). Among the various animal groups the following parasites were found most commonly: Artiodactyla: Coccidia (34.6%), Strongylida (23.4%); Perissodactyla: Strongylida (19.3%), Ascaridida (12.0%); Carnivora: Ascaridida (16.6%), Coccidia (8.1%); Rodentia: Oxyurida (18.2%), Coccidia (10.5%); Marsupialia: Coccidia (9.4%), Oxyurida (5.9%); Primates: Trichuris spp. (9.7%), Oxyurida (2.2%); Aves: Capillaria (7.8%), Ascaridida (7.6%); Reptilia, Amphibia, Insecta: Oxyurida (18.7%); Pisces: Ciliates (6.2%). Furthermore, potentially zoonotic parasites were identified, including Toxoplasma gondii (0.1%), Cryptosporidium sp. (0.1%). By examining the occurrence of specific parasites, these findings demonstrate the importance of parasites in the context of zoo animal health. They also highlight the need for effective strategies to control parasite burden to improve the overall welfare of zoo animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea-Christina Murnik
- Institute of Parasitology, Center for Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, An Den Tierkliniken 35, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ronald Schmäschke
- Institute of Parasitology, Center for Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, An Den Tierkliniken 35, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Jens Thielebein
- Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Theodor-Lieser-Straße 11, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Klaus Eulenberger
- Zoo Leipzig, Pfaffendorfer Straße 29, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
- Amerika-Tierpark Limbach-Oberfrohna, Tierparkstraße 1, 09212, Limbach-Oberfrohna, Germany
| | - Nadine Barownick
- Institute of Parasitology, Center for Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, An Den Tierkliniken 35, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sandra Gawlowska
- Institute of Parasitology, Center for Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, An Den Tierkliniken 35, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Cora Delling
- Institute of Parasitology, Center for Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, An Den Tierkliniken 35, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
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Day CA, Odoi AO, Moncayo A, Doyle MS, Williams CJ, Byrd BD, Trout Fryxell RT. Persistent spatial clustering and predictors of pediatric La Crosse virus neuroinvasive disease risk in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, 2003-2020. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012186. [PMID: 38843214 PMCID: PMC11156276 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The combined region of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina has a persistently high risk of pediatric La Crosse virus neuroinvasive disease (LACV-ND). To guide public health intervention in this region, the objectives of this retrospective ecological study were to investigate the geographic clustering and predictors of pediatric LACV-ND risk at the ZIP code tabulation area (ZCTA) level. Data on pediatric cases of LACV-ND reported between 2003 and 2020 were obtained from Tennessee Department of Health and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Purely spatial and space-time scan statistics were used to identify ZCTA-level clusters of confirmed and probable pediatric LACV-ND cases from 2003-2020, and a combination of global and local (i.e., geographically weighted) negative binomial regression models were used to investigate potential predictors of disease risk from 2015-2020. The cluster investigation revealed spatially persistent high-risk and low-risk clusters of LACV-ND, with most cases consistently reported from a few high-risk clusters throughout the entire study period. Temperature and precipitation had positive but antagonistic associations with disease risk from 2015-2020, but the strength of those relationships varied substantially across the study area. Because LACV-ND risk clustering in this region is focally persistent, retroactive case surveillance can be used to guide the implementation of targeted public health intervention to reduce the disease burden in high-risk areas. Additional research on the role of climate in LACV transmission is warranted to support the development of predictive transmission models to guide proactive public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey A. Day
- Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Agricola O. Odoi
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Abelardo Moncayo
- Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Michael S. Doyle
- North Carolina Division of Public Health, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Carl J. Williams
- North Carolina Division of Public Health, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Brian D. Byrd
- Environmental Health Sciences, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Rebecca T. Trout Fryxell
- Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
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Kim P, Maxwell S, Parijat N, Kim D, McNeely CL. Targeted Tick-Borne Disease Recognition: Assessing Risk for Improved Public Health. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:984. [PMID: 38786395 PMCID: PMC11121250 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12100984] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a rapidly growing threat to public health. The incidence of TBDs is on the rise, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the risk factors beyond demographic considerations. This brief report combines a preliminary review of the literature with geographical case mapping to identify the various factors influencing TBD risk. The report highlights the vulnerability of outdoor workers, the importance of outdoor activities, and the role of education in adopting preventive behaviors. Pet ownership and interactions with animals are also associated with an increased risk. The state of Illinois is used as a case study for this report, revealing regional variations in TBD incidence, and linking them to agricultural practices, forested areas, and park accessibility. These findings inform recommendations for targeted prevention strategies, emphasizing the need for detailed geographical data to enhance public health efforts in curbing TBD incidence and risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pyung Kim
- School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA; (P.K.); (N.P.); (D.K.)
| | - Sarah Maxwell
- School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA; (P.K.); (N.P.); (D.K.)
| | - Nabila Parijat
- School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA; (P.K.); (N.P.); (D.K.)
| | - Dohyeong Kim
- School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA; (P.K.); (N.P.); (D.K.)
| | - Connie L. McNeely
- Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
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Bergevin MD, Ng V, Sadeghieh T, Menzies P, Ludwig A, Mubareka S, Clow KM. A Scoping Review on the Epidemiology of Orthobunyaviruses in Canada, in the Context of Human, Wildlife, and Domestic Animal Host Species. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024; 24:249-264. [PMID: 38206763 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0109] [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] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Mosquito-borne orthobunyaviruses in Canada are a growing public health concern. Orthobunyaviral diseases are commonly underdiagnosed and in Canada, likely underreported as surveillance is passive. No vaccines or specific treatments exist for these disease agents. Further, climate change is facilitating habitat expansion for relevant reservoirs and vectors, and it is likely that the majority of the Canadian population is susceptible to these viruses. Methods: A scoping review was conducted to describe the current state of knowledge on orthobunyavirus epidemiology in Canada. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guideline was used. Literature searches were conducted in six databases and in gray literature. The epidemiology of orthobunyaviruses was characterized for studies focusing on host species, including spatiotemporal patterns, risk factors, and climate change impact. Results: A total of 172 relevant studies were identified from 1734 citations from which 95 addressed host species, including humans, wildlife, and domestic animals including livestock. The orthobunyaviruses-Cache Valley virus (CVV), Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV), Snowshoe Hare virus (SHV), and La Crosse virus (LACV)-were identified, and prevalence was widespread across vertebrate species. CVV, JCV, and SHV were detected across Canada and the United States. LACV was reported only in the United States, predominantly the Mid-Atlantic and Appalachian regions. Disease varied by orthobunyavirus and was associated with age, environment, preexisting compromised immune systems, or livestock breeding schedule. Conclusion: Knowledge gaps included seroprevalence data in Canada, risk factor analyses, particularly for livestock, and disease projections in the context of climate change. Additional surveillance and mitigation strategies, especially accounting for climate change, are needed to guide future public health efforts to prevent orthobunyavirus exposure and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele D Bergevin
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Victoria Ng
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
- National Microbiology Laboratory Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tara Sadeghieh
- Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paula Menzies
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Antoinette Ludwig
- National Microbiology Laboratory Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, St. Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Samira Mubareka
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katie M Clow
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Zychowski DL, Alvarez C, Abernathy H, Giandomenico D, Choudhary SK, Vorobiov JM, Boyce RM, Nelson AE, Commins SP. Tick-Borne Disease Infections and Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2351418. [PMID: 38206624 PMCID: PMC10784854 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.51418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) other than Lyme disease, such as spotted fever group rickettsiosis, ehrlichiosis, and galactose-α-1,3-galactose (α-gal) syndrome, are an emerging public health issue. Long-term sequelae secondary to Ehrlichia or Rickettsia infection are uncommon; however, musculoskeletal symptoms are often attributed to prior tick exposure. Objective To evaluate the potential associations between prior exposure to TBDs and musculoskeletal symptoms, including radiographic osteoarthritis. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study analyzed serum samples from the fourth visit (2017-2018) of the Johnston County Osteoarthritis (JoCo OA) project, an ongoing longitudinal, population-based study in Johnston County, North Carolina. Biospecimen testing and analysis were performed between May 2022 and November 2023. Participants in the JoCo OA project are noninstitutionalized White and Black Johnston County residents 45 years or older. Main Outcome and Measures The primary outcome was seropositivity with Ehrlichia IgG, Rickettsia IgG, and/or α-gal IgE and musculoskeletal symptoms. Secondary outcomes included risk factors associated with elevated α-gal IgE and weighted population point prevalence rates. Participants completed questionnaires, underwent physical assessments, and provided biospecimens for serological testing. Multivariable models were used to estimate associations of interest. Results Of the 605 participants who completed the fourth visit of the JoCo OA project, 488 (80.7%) had serum samples available for testing. The 488 participants had a median (IQR) age of 72 (68-78) years and included 336 females (68.9%) and 161 Black (33.0%) and 327 White (67.0%) individuals. The overall weighted point prevalence was 8.6% (95% CI, 5.9%-11.3%) for Ehrlichia IgG, 17.1% (95% CI, 12.6%-21.5%) for Rickettsia IgG, and 19.6% (95% CI, 15.3%-23.8%) for α-gal IgE level greater than 0.1 IU/mL. Only α-gal IgE was associated with knee pain, aching or stiffness (mean ratio, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.09-1.56). Antibodies to Rickettsia, Ehrlichia, and α-gal were not associated with symptomatic radiographic knee osteoarthritis. Male sex (odds ratio [OR], 2.63; 95% CI, 1.55-4.47), current smoker status (OR, 3.55; 95% CI, 1.38-9.18), and an attached tick bite in the past 5 years (OR, 3.99; 95% CI, 2.22-7.15) were all risk factors that were associated with α-gal IgE level greater than 0.1 IU/mL. Despite only 84 individuals (17.2%) recalling a tick bite in the past 5 years, 178 (36.5%) had evidence of prior tick-borne exposure, suggesting frequent human-tick interactions. Conclusions and Relevance Results of this cross-sectional study indicate no association between Ehrlichia or Rickettsia seropositivity and chronic musculoskeletal symptoms or osteoarthritis. Further investigation is needed into the pathogenesis of α-gal syndrome and interventions to reduce human-tick interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana L. Zychowski
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | - Carolina Alvarez
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | - Haley Abernathy
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | - Dana Giandomenico
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | - Shailesh K. Choudhary
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | - Julia M. Vorobiov
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | - Ross M. Boyce
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | - Amanda E. Nelson
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | - Scott P. Commins
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
- Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
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Day CA, Byrd BD, Trout Fryxell RT. La Crosse virus neuroinvasive disease: the kids are not alright. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 60:1165-1182. [PMID: 37862102 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
La Crosse virus (LACV) is the most common cause of neuroinvasive mosquito-borne disease in children within the United States. Despite more than 50 years of recognized endemicity in the United States, the true burden of LACV disease is grossly underappreciated, and there remain severe knowledge gaps that inhibit public health interventions to reduce morbidity and mortality. Long-standing deficiencies in disease surveillance, clinical diagnostics and therapeutics, actionable entomologic and environmental risk indices, case response capacity, public awareness, and availability of community support groups clearly frame LACV disease as neglected. Here we synthesize salient prior research and contextualize our findings as an assessment of current gaps and opportunities to develop a framework to prevent, detect, and respond to LACV disease. The persistent burdens of LACV disease clearly require renewed public health attention, policy, and action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey A Day
- Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Brian D Byrd
- Environmental Health Sciences, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC, USA
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Faw LR, Riley J, Eastwood G. La Crosse Virus Circulation in Virginia, Assessed via Serosurveillance in Wildlife Species. Infect Dis Rep 2023; 15:360-369. [PMID: 37489390 PMCID: PMC10366734 DOI: 10.3390/idr15040036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-borne La Crosse virus (LACV; family: Peribunyaviridae) is the leading cause of pediatric arboviral encephalitis in the United States, with clinical cases generally centered in the Midwest and Appalachian regions. Incidence of LACV cases in Appalachian states has increased, such that the region currently represents the majority of reported LACV cases in the USA. The amount of reported LACV cases from Virginia, however, is minimal compared to neighboring states such as North Carolina, West Virginia, and Tennessee, and non-Appalachian regions of Virginia are understudied. Here we examine the hypothesis that LACV is circulating widely in Virginia, despite a low clinical case report rate, and that the virus is circulating in areas not associated with LACV disease. In this study, we screened local mammalian wildlife in northwestern counties of Virginia using passive surveillance via patients submitted to wildlife rehabilitation centers. Blood sera (527 samples; 9 species, 8 genera) collected between October 2019 and December 2022 were screened for neutralizing antibodies against LACV, indicating prior exposure to the virus. We found an overall LACV seroprevalence of 1.90% among all wild mammals examined and reveal evidence of LACV exposure in several wild species not generally associated with LACV, including eastern cottontails and red foxes, along with established reservoirs, eastern gray squirrels, although there was no serological evidence in chipmunks. These data indicate the circulation of LACV in Virginia outside of Appalachian counties, however, at a lower rate than reported for endemic areas within the state and in other states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey R Faw
- Department Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens (CeZAP), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
| | | | - Gillian Eastwood
- Department Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens (CeZAP), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
- The Global Change Center at Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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Barber RM, Li Q, Levine JM, Ruone SJ, Levine GJ, Kenny P, Tong S, Schatzberg SJ. Screening for Viral Nucleic Acids in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Dogs With Central Nervous System Inflammation. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:850510. [PMID: 35400093 PMCID: PMC8987525 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.850510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) inflammation is a common cause of neurological dysfunction in dogs. Most dogs with CNS inflammation are diagnosed with presumptive autoimmune disease. A smaller number are diagnosed with an infectious etiology. Additionally, at necropsy, a subset of dogs with CNS inflammation do not fit previously described patterns of autoimmune disease and an infectious cause is not readily identifiable. Because viral infection is a common cause of meningoencephalitis in people, we hypothesize that a subset of dogs presented with CNS inflammation have an occult viral infection either as a direct cause of CNS inflammation or a trigger for autoimmunity. The goal of this research was to screen cerebrospinal fluid from a large number dogs with CNS inflammation for occult viral infection. One hundred seventy-two dogs with neurological dysfunction and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis were identified. Of these, 42 had meningoencephalitis of unknown origin, six had steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis, one had eosinophilic meningoencephalitis, five had documented infection, 21 had and undetermined diagnosis, and 97 had a diagnosis not consistent with primary inflammatory disease of the CNS (e.g., neoplasia). CSF samples were subsequently screened with broadly reactive PCR for eight viral groups: adenovirus, bunyavirus, coronavirus, enterovirus, flavivirus, herpesvirus, paramyxovirus, and parechovirus. No viral nucleic acids were detected from 168 cases screened for eight viral groups, which does not support occult viral infection as a cause of CNS inflammation in dogs. La Crosse virus (LACV) nucleic acids were detected from four cases in Georgia. Subclinical infection was supported in two of these cases but LACV could not be ruled-out as a cause of infection in the other two cases, suggesting further research is warranted to determine if LACV is an occult cause of CNS inflammation in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee M. Barber
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, Athens, GA, United States
- *Correspondence: Renee M. Barber
| | - Qiang Li
- Becker Animal Hospital, Veterinary Centers of America, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jonathan M. Levine
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Susan J. Ruone
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Gwendolyn J. Levine
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Patrick Kenny
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Suxiang Tong
- Division of Viral Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Scott J. Schatzberg
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, Athens, GA, United States
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Anagnostou M, Gunn V, Nibbs O, Muntaner C, Doberstein B. An international scoping review of rangers’ precarious employment conditions. ENVIRONMENT SYSTEMS AND DECISIONS 2022; 42:479-503. [PMID: 35127330 PMCID: PMC8805139 DOI: 10.1007/s10669-022-09845-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Protecting wildlife and other natural resources requires engaging and empowering local communities, ensuring compliance with rules, and ongoing monitoring and research. At the frontline of these efforts are rangers. Despite their critical role in maintaining the integrity of parks and protected areas, rangers across the world are exposed to precarious employment conditions and hazardous work environments. We conducted an international scoping review to understand which employment and working conditions are examined in the context of the ranger occupation and to assess whether the concept of precarious employment is used in the conservation, criminological, and environmental sustainability literature on rangers. We reviewed publications from Web of Knowledge, Scopus, ProQuest, and Medline, and grey literature for relevant English language articles published between 2000 and 2021. Our findings are based on the analysis of 98 included studies. We found that the most commonly discussed aspect of rangers’ employment and working conditions was the hazardous social and physical work environment, although this was often accompanied by severe income inadequacy, employment insecurity, and a lack of social security, regulatory support, and workplace rights. Such employment and working conditions can cause adverse impacts on rangers’ mental and physical health, well-being, and safety, and are also detrimental to their ability to adequately protect biodiversity. We conclude by outlining the need for sustainable solutions and additional research based on established conceptualizations of the precarious employment concept and other related concepts. Lastly, we suggest that governments should acknowledge the importance of rangers through their recognition as essential workers and provide greater support to improve their employment conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Anagnostou
- Geography and Environmental Management, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Virginia Gunn
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, The Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Region, Sweden
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Oriona Nibbs
- Environment, Resources and Sustainability, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Carles Muntaner
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Brent Doberstein
- Geography & Environmental Management, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON Canada
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Magnavita N, Capitanelli I, Ilesanmi O, Chirico F. Occupational Lyme Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12020296. [PMID: 35204387 PMCID: PMC8870942 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12020296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease (LD) can have significant consequences for the health of workers. The frequency of infection can be estimated by using prevalence and incidence data on antibodies against Borrelia Burgdoferi (BB). A systematic search of studies published in English between 2002 and 2021 and a meta-analysis were conducted in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Out of a total of 1125 studies retrieved, 35 articles were included in the systematic review. Overall, in these studies, outdoor workers showed a 20.5% BB seroprevalence rate. Meta-analysis, performed on 15 studies (3932 subjects), revealed a significantly increased risk in outdoor activities (OR 1.93 95%CI 1.15–3.23), with medium-level heterogeneity (I2 = 69.2%), and non-significant publication bias. The estimated OR in forestry and agricultural workers was 2.36 (CI95% 1.28; 4.34) in comparison with the controls, while a non-significant increase in risk (OR = 1.05, CI95% 0.28; 3.88) was found in the remaining categories of workers (veterinarians, animal breeders, soldiers). The estimated pooled risk was significantly higher in the studies published until 2010 (OR 3.03 95%CI 1.39–6.61), while in more recent studies the odds became non-significant (OR 1.08 95% CI 0.63–1.85). The promotion of awareness campaigns targeting outdoor workers in endemic areas, and the implementation of local programs aimed at controlling range expansion of vectors, are key strategies for protecting workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Magnavita
- Post-Graduate School of Occupational Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Science of Woman, Child & Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli IRCSS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-34-7330-0367
| | - Ilaria Capitanelli
- Prevention Service in the Workplace (SPRESAL), Local Health Unit Roma 4, 00053 Civitavecchia, Italy;
| | - Olayinka Ilesanmi
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200281, Nigeria;
| | - Francesco Chirico
- Post-Graduate School of Occupational Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Health Service Department, Italian State Police, Ministry of the Interior, 20123 Milan, Italy
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11
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Anderson KR, Blekking J, Omodior O. Tick trails: the role of online recreational trail reviews in identifying risk factors and behavioral recommendations associated with tick encounters in Indiana. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:908. [PMID: 33980203 PMCID: PMC8117608 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10940-4] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recreational trails abound across the United States and represent high risk areas for tick exposure. Although online reviews represent a rich source of user information, they have rarely been used in determining the risk of tick exposure during recreational trail use. Based on online user reviews and comments, the purpose of this study was to determine risk factors and behavioral recommendations associated with tick encounters (Tick Presence) on recreational trails in the state of Indiana, U.S. METHODS We reviewed 26,016 user comments left on AllTrails.com for 697 Indiana trails. Reviews were evaluated to determine Tick Presence/Absence, the total number of Tick Presence Reviews per trail, and multiple trail and user behavioral characteristics. We used hot spot (Getis-Ord Gi*) analysis to test the hypothesis of whether there are clusters in the number of Tick Presence Reviews. Pearson chi-square tests of independence evaluated whether tick presence was associated with several trail characteristics. Finally, negative binomial regression evaluated the strength of the association between the number of Tick Presence Reviews and several trail characteristics. RESULTS Tick Presence was recorded at 10% (n = 65) of trails and occurred most frequently in May. Hot spot analysis revealed statistically significant clusters of Tick Presence Reviews on trails in the Southern Indiana State Region. Results of χ2 tests indicated significant associations between Tick Presence Reviews and (a) State Region and (b) Land Management Type; Mann-Whitney U tests detected significant differences in Tick Presence Reviews based on Trail Length and Elevation Gain. Subsequent results of a negative binomial regression model indicated that Southern Indiana State Region, Federal and Private Land Management Type, and Elevation Gain were factors significantly associated with Tick Presence Reviews. Content of user reviews indicated several behaviors employed to prevent tick encounters, particularly Repellent Application and Recreational Deterrence; 25% included a behavior Recommendation to others. CONCLUSIONS Online, user-generated trail reviews have the potential to serve as rich data sources for identifying recreational trails, where 1) the risk of tick exposure is great, 2) more robust active tick and tick-borne pathogen surveillance may be warranted, and 3) tailored prevention interventions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina R Anderson
- Department of Health & Wellness Design, School of Public Health, Indiana University Bloomington, 1025 E. 7th Street, IN, 47405, Bloomington, USA.
| | - Jordan Blekking
- Department of Geography, College of Arts & Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, 701 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Oghenekaro Omodior
- Department of Health & Wellness Design, School of Public Health, Indiana University Bloomington, 1025 E. 7th Street, IN, 47405, Bloomington, USA
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12
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Straily A, Stuck S, Singleton J, Brennan S, Marcum S, Condit M, Lee C, Kato C, Tonnetti L, Stramer SL, Paddock CD. Antibody Titers Reactive With Rickettsia rickettsii in Blood Donors and Implications for Surveillance of Spotted Fever Rickettsiosis in the United States. J Infect Dis 2021; 221:1371-1378. [PMID: 31267128 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since 2000, the reported prevalence of tick-borne spotted fever rickettsiosis has increased considerably. We compared the level of antibody reactivity among healthy blood donors from 2 widely separated regions of the United States and evaluated the impact of antibody prevalence on public health surveillance in one of these regions. METHODS Donor serum samples were evaluated by indirect immunofluorescence antibody assay to identify immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies reactive with Rickettsia rickettsii. The Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH) analyzed characteristics of cases from 2016 surveillance data to evaluate the utility of laboratory surveillance for case assessment. RESULTS Of the Georgia donors (n = 1493), 11.1% demonstrated antibody titers reactive with R. rickettsii at titers ≥64, whereas 6.3% of donors from Oregon and Washington (n = 1511) were seropositive. Most seropositive donors had a titer of 64; only 3.1% (n = 93) of all donors had titers ≥128. During 2016, GDPH interviewed 243 seropositive case patients; only 28% (n = 69) met inclusion criteria in the national case definition for spotted fever rickettsiosis. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that a single IgG antibody titer is an unreliable measure of diagnosis and could inaccurately affect surveillance estimates that define magnitude and clinical characteristics of Rocky Mountain spotted fever and other spotted fever rickettsioses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Straily
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Atlanta.,Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta
| | | | - Joseph Singleton
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta
| | | | - Stephanie Marcum
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta
| | - Marah Condit
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta
| | - Christopher Lee
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta
| | - Cecilia Kato
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta
| | - Laura Tonnetti
- American Red Cross, Rockville and Gaithersburg, Maryland
| | | | - Christopher D Paddock
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta
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13
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Mitchell C, Dyer M, Lin FC, Bowman N, Mather T, Meshnick S. Protective Effectiveness of Long-Lasting Permethrin Impregnated Clothing Against Tick Bites in an Endemic Lyme Disease Setting: A Randomized Control Trial Among Outdoor Workers. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:1532-1538. [PMID: 32277701 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases are a growing threat to public health in the United States, especially among outdoor workers who experience high occupational exposure to ticks. Long-lasting permethrin-impregnated clothing has demonstrated high initial protection against bites from blacklegged ticks, Ixodes scapularis Say (Acari: Ixodidae), in laboratory settings, and sustained protection against bites from the lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum (L.) (Acari: Ixodidae), in field tests. However, long-lasting permethrin impregnation of clothing has not been field tested among outdoor workers who are frequently exposed to blacklegged ticks. We conducted a 2-yr randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded trial among 82 outdoor workers in Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts. Participants in the treatment arm wore factory-impregnated permethrin clothing, and the control group wore sham-treated clothing. Outdoor working hours, tick encounters, and bites were recorded weekly to assess protective effectiveness of long-lasting permethrin-impregnated garments. Factory-impregnated clothing significantly reduced tick bites by 65% in the first study year and by 50% in the second year for a 2-yr protective effect of 58%. No significant difference in other tick bite prevention method utilization occurred between treatment and control groups, and no treatment-related adverse outcomes were reported. Factory permethrin impregnation of clothing is safe and effective for the prevention of tick bites among outdoor workers whose primary exposure is to blacklegged ticks in the northeastern United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedar Mitchell
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Megan Dyer
- Center for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI
| | - Feng-Chang Lin
- Department of Biostatistics, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Natalie Bowman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Thomas Mather
- Center for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI
| | - Steven Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
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Curtis-Robles R, Meyers AC, Auckland LD, Zecca IB, Skiles R, Hamer SA. Parasitic interactions among Trypanosoma cruzi, triatomine vectors, domestic animals, and wildlife in Big Bend National Park along the Texas-Mexico border. Acta Trop 2018; 188:225-233. [PMID: 30205082 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
National parks attract millions of visitors each year. Park visitors, employees, and pets are at risk of infection with various zoonotic pathogens, including Trypanosoma cruzi, causative agent of Chagas disease. Big Bend National Park is located along the Texas-Mexico border in a region with endemic triatomine insects- vectors of T. cruzi- yet the degree to which the parasite is transmitted in this region is unknown. We collected triatomines for T. cruzi detection and discrete typing unit (DTU) determination, and conducted blood meal analyses to determine recent hosts. As an index of domestic/peridomestic transmission, we tested residential dogs in the Park for exposure to T. cruzi. From 2015 to 2017, 461 triatomines of three species-Triatoma rubida, Triatoma gerstaeckeri, and Triatoma protracta-were collected in and around the Park. Adult triatomine encounters peaked in June of each year (52.8% of collections). We detected an overall infection prevalence of 23.1% in adult triatomines (n = 320) and 4.2% in nymph triatomines (n = 24). DTU TcI was the only T. cruzi strain detected. Of 89 triatomines subjected to blood meal analyses, vertebrate host DNA was successfully amplified from 42 (47.2%); blood meal sources included humans, domestic animals, and avian and mammalian wildlife species. Tested dogs were considered positive if reactive on at least two independent serologic assays; we found 28.6% seroprevalence in 14 dogs. These findings reveal interactions between infected triatomines, humans, dogs, and wildlife in and around Big Bend National Park, with potential risk of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Curtis-Robles
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Alyssa C Meyers
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Lisa D Auckland
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Italo B Zecca
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Raymond Skiles
- Big Bend National Park, P.O. Box 129, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834, USA.
| | - Sarah A Hamer
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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15
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Harrist A, Cherry C, Kwit N, Bryan K, Pappert R, Petersen J, Buttke D, Wong D, Nelson C. Francisella tularensis Exposure Among National Park Service Employees During an Epizootic: Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming, 2015. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2018; 19:316-322. [PMID: 30508402 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2018.2360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Tularemia is a zoonotic infection caused by the highly infectious bacterium Francisella tularensis. Persons having outdoor professions are more likely than others to be exposed to F. tularensis through increased contact with arthropods, infected animals, and contaminated aerosols. Materials and Methods: After a tularemia epizootic during July and August 2015 at Devils Tower National Monument and an associated tularemia infection in a park employee, we assessed seroprevalence of F. tularensis antibodies, risk factors for F. tularensis seropositivity, and use of protective measures among park employees. Results: Seroprevalence among participating employees was 13% (3/23). Seropositive employees reported multiple risk factors for F. tularensis exposure through both job-related and recreational activities. Activities reported by more seropositive than seronegative employees included using a power blower (67% vs. 5%, p = 0.03), collecting animal carcasses (100% vs. 30%, p = 0.047), and hunting prairie dogs recreationally (67% vs. 5%, p = 0.03). Seropositive employees reported exposure to more ticks (median 30, range 25-35) than seronegative employees (median 6, range 0-25, p = 0.001). Most employees used protective measures (e.g., insect repellent) inconsistently but increased use after receiving educational materials. Conclusions: Educating and enabling at-risk employees to use protective measures consistently, both at work and during recreational activities, can reduce exposure during epizootics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Harrist
- 1 Epidemic Intelligence Service Program, Division of Scientific Education and Professional Development, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia.,2 Public Health Division, Wyoming Department of Health, Cheyenne, Wyoming
| | - Cara Cherry
- 1 Epidemic Intelligence Service Program, Division of Scientific Education and Professional Development, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia.,3 National Park Service, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Natalie Kwit
- 1 Epidemic Intelligence Service Program, Division of Scientific Education and Professional Development, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia.,4 Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Katie Bryan
- 2 Public Health Division, Wyoming Department of Health, Cheyenne, Wyoming
| | - Ryan Pappert
- 4 Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Jeannine Petersen
- 4 Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | | | - David Wong
- 3 National Park Service, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Christina Nelson
- 4 Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado
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16
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Richards SL, Agada N, Balanay JAG, White AV. Permethrin treated clothing to protect outdoor workers: evaluation of different methods for mosquito exposure against populations with differing resistance status. Pathog Glob Health 2018; 112:13-21. [PMID: 29451081 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2018.1437692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Minimizing arthropod exposure (e.g. mosquito and tick bites) is vital to protect health of outdoor workers. Personal protective measures can help protect against exposure. Here, the quantity of permethrin was evaluated for different fabric types after washing. Cone and petri dish exposure assays were used to investigate the knockdown/mortality of permethrin-susceptible and permethrin-resistant populations of mosquitoes. Permethrin-treated clothing was effective against the tested mosquito population that was susceptible to permethrin but not a permethrin-resistant population. Permethrin quantity was significantly highest in the 100% cotton fabric and for the 0 wash group. Permethrin quantity in fabrics decreased with washing. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in knockdown/mortality rates for either exposure method. The protective effect of permethrin-treated clothing against mosquitoes is impacted by many factors, e.g. wash frequency, fabric type, and the susceptibility/resistance status of local mosquito populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Richards
- a Department of Health Education and Promotion , Environmental Health Program, East Carolina University , Greenville , NC , USA
| | - Nwanne Agada
- a Department of Health Education and Promotion , Environmental Health Program, East Carolina University , Greenville , NC , USA
| | - Jo Anne G Balanay
- a Department of Health Education and Promotion , Environmental Health Program, East Carolina University , Greenville , NC , USA
| | - Avian V White
- a Department of Health Education and Promotion , Environmental Health Program, East Carolina University , Greenville , NC , USA
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17
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18
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Elhamiani Khatat S, Sahibi H, Hing M, Alaoui Moustain I, El Amri H, Benajiba M, Kachani M, Duchateau L, Daminet S. Human Exposure to Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Two Cities of Northwestern Morocco. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0160880. [PMID: 27532208 PMCID: PMC4988626 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0160880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an emerging tick-borne zoonosis with extensive increased interest. Epidemiological data are available in several regions of the USA, Europe and Asia in contrast to other parts of the world such as North Africa. Blood samples of 261 healthy individuals divided in two groups i.e., dog handlers and blood donors were analysed. Indirect immunofluorescent assay using a commercial kit was performed to detect specific A. phagocytophilum IgG. Two dilutions were used to assess the prevalence of seroreactive samples. Demographic variables were assessed as potential risk factors using exact logistic regression. Seropositivity rates reached 37% and 27% in dog handlers and 36% and 22% in blood donors. No statistically significant differences were found in the prevalence rates between the two groups. Analysis of risk factors such as gender, age groups, outdoor activities, self-reported previous exposure to ticks, or contact with domestic animals (dogs, cats, ruminants and horses) did not shown any significant difference. A. phagocytophilum exposure was common in both high-risk population and blood donors in Morocco.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Elhamiani Khatat
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Public Heath, Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II, Rabat, Morocco
- Department of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| | - Hamid Sahibi
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Public Heath, Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Mony Hing
- National Reference Laboratory for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Laboratory of Clinical Biology, Queen Astrid Military Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Malika Kachani
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California, United States of America
| | - Luc Duchateau
- Department of Comparative Physiology and Biometrics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Sylvie Daminet
- Department of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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19
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Wallace JW, Nicholson WL, Perniciaro JL, Vaughn MF, Funkhouser S, Juliano JJ, Lee S, Kakumanu ML, Ponnusamy L, Apperson CS, Meshnick SR. Incident Tick-Borne Infections in a Cohort of North Carolina Outdoor Workers. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2016; 16:302-8. [PMID: 27008102 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases cause substantial morbidity throughout the United States, and North Carolina has a high incidence of spotted fever rickettsioses and ehrlichiosis, with sporadic cases of Lyme disease. The occupational risk of tick-borne infections among outdoor workers is high, particularly those working on publicly managed lands. This study identified incident tick-borne infections and examined seroconversion risk factors among a cohort of North Carolina outdoor workers. Workers from the North Carolina State Divisions of Forestry, Parks and Recreation, and Wildlife (n = 159) were followed for 2 years in a randomized controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of long-lasting permethrin-impregnated clothing. Antibody titers against Rickettsia parkeri, Rickettsia rickettsii, "Rickettsia amblyommii," and Ehrlichia chaffeensis were measured at baseline (n = 130), after 1 year (n = 82), and after 2 years (n = 73). Titers against Borrelia burgdorferi were measured at baseline and after 2 years (n = 90). Baseline seroprevalence, defined as indirect immunofluorescence antibody titers of 1/128 or greater, was R. parkeri (24%), R. rickettsii (19%), "R. amblyommii" (12%), and E. chaffeensis (4%). Incident infection was defined as a fourfold increase in titer over a 1-year period. There were 40 total seroconversions to at least one pathogen, including R. parkeri (n = 19), "R. amblyommii" (n = 14), R. rickettsii (n = 9), and E. chaffeensis (n = 8). There were no subjects whose sera were reactive to B. burgdorferi C6 antigen. Thirty-eight of the 40 incident infections were subclinical. The overall risk of infection by any pathogen during the study period was 0.26, and the risk among the NC Division of Forest Resources workers was 1.73 times that of workers in other divisions (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02, 2.92). The risk of infection was lower in subjects wearing permethrin-impregnated clothing, but not significantly (risk ratio = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.47, 1.39). In summary, outdoor workers in North Carolina are at high risk of incident tick-borne infections, most of which appear to be asymptomatic.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Wallace
- 1 Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Gillings School of Global Public Health , Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - William L Nicholson
- 2 Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jamie L Perniciaro
- 2 Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Meagan F Vaughn
- 1 Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Gillings School of Global Public Health , Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Sheana Funkhouser
- 1 Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Gillings School of Global Public Health , Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jonathan J Juliano
- 3 Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine , Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Sangmi Lee
- 4 Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Madhavi L Kakumanu
- 4 Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Loganathan Ponnusamy
- 4 Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Charles S Apperson
- 4 Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University , Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- 1 Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Gillings School of Global Public Health , Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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20
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Kosoy O, Rabe I, Geissler A, Adjemian J, Panella A, Laven J, Basile AJ, Velez J, Griffith K, Wong D, Fischer M, Lanciotti RS. Serological Survey for Antibodies to Mosquito-Borne Bunyaviruses Among US National Park Service and US Forest Service Employees. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2016; 16:191-8. [PMID: 26855300 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Serum samples from 295 employees of Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GRSM), Rocky Mountain National Park (ROMO), and Grand Teton National Park with adjacent Bridger-Teton National Forest (GRTE-BTNF) were subjected to serological analysis for mosquito-borne bunyaviruses. The sera were analyzed for neutralizing antibodies against six orthobunyaviruses: La Crosse virus (LACV), Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV), snowshoe hare virus (SSHV), California encephalitis virus, and Trivittatus virus (TVTV) belonging to the California serogroup and Cache Valley virus (CVV) belonging to the Bunyamwera serogroup. Sera were also tested for immunoglobulin (Ig) G antibodies against LACV and JCV by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The proportion of employees with neutralizing antibodies to any California serogroup bunyavirus was similar in all three sites, with the prevalence ranging from 28% to 36%. The study demonstrated a seroprevalence of 3% to CVV across the three parks. However, proportions of persons with antibodies to specific viruses differed between parks. Participants residing in the eastern regions had a higher seroprevalence to LACV, with 24% (18/75) GRSM employees being seropositive. In contrast, SSHV seroprevalence was limited to employees from the western sites, with 1.7% (1/60) ROMO and 3.8% (6/160) GRTE-BTNF employees being positive. Seroprevalence to JCV was noted in employees from all sites at rates of 6.7% in GRSM, 21.7% in ROMO, and 15.6% in GRTE-BTNF. One employee each from ROMO (1.7%) and GRTE-BTNF (1.9%) were positive for TVTV. This study also has illustrated the greater sensitivity and specificity of plaque reduction neutralization test compared to IgG ELISA in conducting serosurveys for LACV and JCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Kosoy
- 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Ingrid Rabe
- 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Aimee Geissler
- 2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Amanda Panella
- 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Janeen Laven
- 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Alison J Basile
- 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Jason Velez
- 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Kevin Griffith
- 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - David Wong
- 3 Office of Public Health, United States National Park Service , Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Marc Fischer
- 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Fort Collins, Colorado
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21
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Geissler AL, Thorp E, Van Houten C, Lanciotti RS, Panella N, Cadwell BL, Murphy T, Staples JE. Infection with Colorado tick fever virus among humans and ticks in a national park and forest, Wyoming, 2010. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2015; 14:675-80. [PMID: 25229706 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2013.1568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorado tick fever (CTF) is an underreported tick-borne viral disease occurring in the western United States. CTF illness includes fever, headache, and severe myalgia lasting for weeks. Wyoming has one of the highest CTF incidence rates with approximately 30% of infected persons reporting tick exposure in a Wyoming National Park or Forest before symptom onset. We assessed CTF virus infections among humans and Dermacentor andersoni ticks in Grand Teton National Park (GRTE) and Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF). METHODS In June of 2010, 526 eligible employees were approached to participate in a baseline and 3-month follow-up serosurvey and risk behavior survey. Seropositivity was defined as antibody titers against CTF virus ≥10, as measured by the plaque reduction neutralization test. Ticks were collected at 27 sites within GRTE/BTNF and tested by RT-PCR for the CTF virus. RESULTS A total of 126 (24%) employees participated in the baseline and follow-up study visits. Three (2%) employees were seropositive for CTF virus infection at baseline. During the study, 47 (37%) participants found unattached ticks on themselves, and 12 (10%) found attached ticks; however, no participants seroconverted against CTF virus. Walking through sagebrush (p=0.04) and spending time at ≥7000 feet elevation (p<0.01) were significantly associated with tick exposure. Ninety-nine percent (174/176) of ticks were D. andersoni, and all were found at ≥7000 feet elevation in sagebrush areas; 37 (21%) ticks tested positive for CTF virus and were found at 10 (38%) of 26 sites sampled. CONCLUSIONS Although no GRTE or BTNF employees were infected with CTF virus during the study period, high rates of infected ticks were identified in areas with sagebrush at ≥7000 feet. CTF education and personal protection measures against tick exposure should be targeted to visitors and employees traveling to the high-risk environs identified in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee L Geissler
- 1 Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Atlanta, Georgia
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Drebot MA. Emerging mosquito-borne bunyaviruses in Canada. CANADA COMMUNICABLE DISEASE REPORT = RELEVE DES MALADIES TRANSMISSIBLES AU CANADA 2015; 41:117-123. [PMID: 29769943 PMCID: PMC5864308 DOI: 10.14745/ccdr.v41i06a01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
California serogroup and Cache Valley viruses are arboviruses (tick- and mosquito-borne pathogens) belonging to the genus Orthobunyavirus (Family Bunyaviridae). Although the majority of exposures to these viruses result in asymptomatic or mild infections, both California serogroup and Cache Valley viruses can cause febrile and neurological diseases similar in nature to those associated with infections by West Nile virus. California serogroup and Cache Valley viruses are widely distributed across North America and circulate in a number of vertebrate hosts and mosquito vectors, including several species of Aedes and other non-Culex mosquitoes. The Jamestown Canyon and snowshoe hare viruses are the most common kind of California serogroup viruses found in Canada and have been identified throughout the country. These potential pathogens may be contributing to a higher burden of illness than previously recognized and should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis for febrile and neuroinvasive disease during the mosquito season. Diagnosis can be made by requesting a diagnostic panel at the Viral Zoonoses program at the National Microbiology Laboratory. To decrease the risk of infection, education about these viruses and the importance of personal preventive measures is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Drebot
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB
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23
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Wilken JA, Jackson R, Materna BL, Windham GC, Enge B, Messenger S, Xia D, Knust B, Buttke D, Roisman R. Assessing prevention measures and Sin Nombre hantavirus seroprevalence among workers at Yosemite National Park. Am J Ind Med 2015; 58:658-67. [PMID: 25943457 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During 2012, a total of 10 overnight visitors to Yosemite National Park (Yosemite) became infected with a hantavirus (Sin Nombre virus [SNV]); three died. SNV infections have been identified among persons with occupational exposure to deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus). METHODS We assessed SNV infection prevalence, work and living environments, mice exposures, and SNV prevention training, knowledge, and practices among workers of two major employers at Yosemite during September-October, 2012 by voluntary blood testing and a questionnaire. RESULTS One of 526 participants had evidence of previous SNV infection. Participants reported frequently observing rodent infestations at work and home and not always following prescribed safety practices for tasks, including infestation cleanup. CONCLUSION Although participants had multiple exposures to deer mice, we did not find evidence of widespread SNV infections. Nevertheless, employees working around deer mice should receive appropriate training and consistently follow prevention policies for high-risk activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A. Wilken
- California Department of Public Health; Richmond California
- Epidemic Intelligence Service; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Atlanta Georgia
| | - Rebecca Jackson
- California Department of Public Health; Richmond California
- Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists; Applied Epidemiology Fellow; Atlanta Georgia
| | | | | | - Barryett Enge
- California Department of Public Health; Richmond California
| | | | - Dongxiang Xia
- California Department of Public Health; Richmond California
| | - Barbara Knust
- National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases; Centers for Disease Controland Prevention; Atlanta Georgia
| | - Danielle Buttke
- National Park Service; Office of Public Health; Fort Collins Colorado
| | - Rachel Roisman
- California Department of Public Health; Richmond California
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Abstract
Human risks of acquiring a zoonotic disease from animals used in biomedical research have declined over the last decade because higher quality research animals have defined microbiologic profiles. Even with diminished risks, the potential for exposure to infectious agents still exists, especially from larger species such as nonhuman primates, which may be obtained from the wild, and from livestock, dogs, ferrets, and cats, which are generally not raised in barrier facilities and are not subject to the intensive health monitoring performed routinely on laboratory rodents and rabbits. Additionally, when laboratory animals are used as models for infectious disease studies, exposure to microbial pathogens presents a threat to human health. Also, with the recognition of emerging diseases, some of which are zoonotic, constant vigilance and surveillance of laboratory animals for zoonotic diseases are still required.
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Affiliation(s)
- James G. Fox
- Division of Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Glen Otto
- Animal Resources Ctr University Texas Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Lesley A. Colby
- Department of comparative Medicine University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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25
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L Richards S, G Balanay JA, W Harris J. Effectiveness of permethrin-treated clothing to prevent tick exposure in foresters in the central Appalachian region of the USA. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2014; 25:453-62. [PMID: 25290464 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2014.963033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Outdoor workers are at risk from mosquito and tick bites and the extent to which exposures are linked to vector-borne disease is not understood. This pilot study characterizes for ester exposure to mosquitoes and ticks, and assesses effectiveness of permethrin-treated clothing for prevention of tick bites. Foresters (N = 34) from Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia were placed into treatment (permethrin-treated clothing) or control (untreated clothing) groups. Foresters completed questionnaires about work-related tick/mosquito exposure and 454 ticks were collected/identified from May to June 2013. A time-weighted analysis based on information submitted by foresters about time working outdoors showed that control participants received a lower rate of tick exposure (0.15 tick bites/hour; 13 bites/person) compared to treatment participants (0.27 bites/hour; 21 bites/person). However, more control participants (85 %) received at least one tick bite compared to treatment participants (52 %). Outdoor workers should be aware of available protective measures, such as permethrin-treated clothing, that may mitigate occupational risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Richards
- a Department of Health Education and Promotion, Environmental Health Sciences Program , East Carolina University , Greenville , NC , USA
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26
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Long-lasting permethrin impregnated uniforms: A randomized-controlled trial for tick bite prevention. Am J Prev Med 2014; 46:473-80. [PMID: 24745637 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2014.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2013] [Revised: 01/08/2014] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because of frequent exposure to tick habitats, outdoor workers are at high risk for tick-borne diseases. Adherence to National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health-recommended tick bite prevention methods is poor. A factory-based method for permethrin impregnation of clothing that provides long-lasting insecticidal and repellent activity is commercially available, and studies are needed to assess the long-term effectiveness of this clothing under field conditions. PURPOSE To evaluate the protective effectiveness of long-lasting permethrin impregnated uniforms among a cohort of North Carolina outdoor workers. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A double-blind RCT was conducted between March 2011 and September 2012. Subjects included outdoor workers from North Carolina State Divisions of Forestry, Parks and Recreation, and Wildlife who worked in eastern or central North Carolina. A total of 159 volunteer subjects were randomized, and 127 and 101 subjects completed the first and second years of follow-up, respectively. INTERVENTION Uniforms of participants in the treatment group were factory-impregnated with long-lasting permethrin whereas control group uniforms received a sham treatment. Participants continued to engage in their usual tick bite prevention activities. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Incidence of work-related tick bites reported on weekly tick bite logs. RESULTS Study subjects reported 1,045 work-related tick bites over 5,251 person-weeks of follow-up. The mean number of reported tick bites in the year prior to enrollment was similar for both the treatment and control groups, but markedly different during the study period. In our analysis conducted in 2013, the effectiveness of long-lasting permethrin impregnated uniforms for the prevention of work-related tick bites was 0.82 (95% CI=0.66, 0.91) and 0.34 (95% CI=-0.67, 0.74) for the first and second years of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that long-lasting permethrin impregnated uniforms are highly effective for at least 1 year in deterring tick bites in the context of typical tick bite prevention measures employed by outdoor workers.
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Basile AJ, Horiuchi K, Panella AJ, Laven J, Kosoy O, Lanciotti RS, Venkateswaran N, Biggerstaff BJ. Multiplex microsphere immunoassays for the detection of IgM and IgG to arboviral diseases. PLoS One 2013; 8:e75670. [PMID: 24086608 PMCID: PMC3783417 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Serodiagnosis of arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) at the Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, CDC, employs a combination of individual enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and microsphere immunoassays (MIAs) to test for IgM and IgG, followed by confirmatory plaque-reduction neutralization tests. Based upon the geographic origin of a sample, it may be tested concurrently for multiple arboviruses, which can be a cumbersome task. The advent of multiplexing represents an opportunity to streamline these types of assays; however, because serologic cross-reactivity of the arboviral antigens often confounds results, it is of interest to employ data analysis methods that address this issue. Here, we constructed 13-virus multiplexed IgM and IgG MIAs that included internal and external controls, based upon the Luminex platform. Results from samples tested using these methods were analyzed using 8 different statistical schemes to identify the best way to classify the data. Geographic batteries were also devised to serve as a more practical diagnostic format, and further samples were tested using the abbreviated multiplexes. Comparative error rates for the classification schemes identified a specific boosting method based on logistic regression “Logitboost” as the classification method of choice. When the data from all samples tested were combined into one set, error rates from the multiplex IgM and IgG MIAs were <5% for all geographic batteries. This work represents both the most comprehensive, validated multiplexing method for arboviruses to date, and also the most systematic attempt to determine the most useful classification method for use with these types of serologic tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J. Basile
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kalanthe Horiuchi
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Amanda J. Panella
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Janeen Laven
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Olga Kosoy
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Robert S. Lanciotti
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | | | - Brad J. Biggerstaff
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
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Eisen L, Wong D, Shelus V, Eisen RJ. What is the risk for exposure to vector-borne pathogens in United States national parks? JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2013; 50:221-30. [PMID: 23540107 PMCID: PMC4612354 DOI: 10.1603/me12228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
United States national parks attract > 275 million visitors annually and collectively present risk of exposure for staff and visitors to a wide range of arthropod vector species (most notably fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks) and their associated bacterial, protozoan, or viral pathogens. We assessed the current state of knowledge for risk of exposure to vector-borne pathogens in national parks through a review of relevant literature, including internal National Park Service documents and organismal databases. We conclude that, because of lack of systematic surveillance for vector-borne pathogens in national parks, the risk of pathogen exposure for staff and visitors is unclear. Existing data for vectors within national parks were not based on systematic collections and rarely include evaluation for pathogen infection. Extrapolation of human-based surveillance data from neighboring communities likely provides inaccurate estimates for national parks because landscape differences impact transmission of vector-borne pathogens and human-vector contact rates likely differ inside versus outside the parks because of differences in activities or behaviors. Vector-based pathogen surveillance holds promise to define when and where within national parks the risk of exposure to infected vectors is elevated. A pilot effort, including 5-10 strategic national parks, would greatly improve our understanding of the scope and magnitude of vector-borne pathogen transmission in these high-use public settings. Such efforts also will support messaging to promote personal protection measures and inform park visitors and staff of their responsibility for personal protection, which the National Park Service preservation mission dictates as the core strategy to reduce exposure to vector-borne pathogens in national parks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Eisen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, 3195 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
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Breitschwerdt EB, Sontakke S, Hopkins S. Neurological Manifestations of Bartonellosis in Immunocompetent Patients: A Composite of Reports from 2005-2012. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.4303/jnp/235640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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