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Rooney T, Fèvre EM, Villinger J, Brenn-White M, Cummings CO, Chai D, Kamau J, Kiyong'a A, Getange D, Ochieng DO, Kivali V, Zimmerman D, Rosenbaum M, Nutter FB, Deem SL. Coxiella burnetii serostatus in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) is associated with the presence of C. burnetii DNA in attached ticks in Laikipia County, Kenya. Zoonoses Public Health 2024; 71:503-514. [PMID: 38627945 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Q fever is a globally distributed, neglected zoonotic disease of conservation and public health importance, caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. Coxiella burnetii normally causes subclinical infections in livestock, but may also cause reproductive pathology and spontaneous abortions in artiodactyl species. One such artiodactyl, the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius), is an increasingly important livestock species in semi-arid landscapes. Ticks are naturally infected with C. burnetii worldwide and are frequently found on camels in Kenya. In this study, we assessed the relationship between dromedary camels' C. burnetii serostatus and whether the camels were carrying C. burnetii PCR-positive ticks in Kenya. We hypothesized that there would be a positive association between camel seropositivity and carrying C. burnetii PCR-positive ticks. METHODS AND RESULTS Blood was collected from camels (N = 233) from three herds, and serum was analysed using commercial ELISA antibody test kits. Ticks were collected (N = 4354), divided into pools of the same species from the same camel (N = 397) and tested for C. burnetii and Coxiella-like endosymbionts. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize seroprevalence by camel demographic and clinical variables. Univariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess relationships between serostatus (outcome) and tick PCR status, camel demographic variables, and camel clinical variables (predictors). Camel C. burnetii seroprevalence was 52%. Across tick pools, the prevalence of C. burnetii was 15% and Coxiella-like endosymbionts was 27%. Camel seropositivity was significantly associated with the presence of a C. burnetii PCR-positive tick pool (OR: 2.58; 95% CI: 1.4-5.1; p = 0.0045), increasing age class, and increasing total solids. CONCLUSIONS The role of ticks and camels in the epidemiology of Q fever warrants further research to better understand this zoonotic disease that has potential to cause illness and reproductive losses in humans, livestock, and wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tess Rooney
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts, USA
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, San Diego, California, USA
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Eric M Fèvre
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jandouwe Villinger
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Maris Brenn-White
- Institute for Conservation Medicine, Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Santa Cruz County Animal Services Authority, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Charles O Cummings
- Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel Chai
- One Health Centre, Institute of Primate Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joseph Kamau
- One Health Centre, Institute of Primate Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alice Kiyong'a
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Dennis Getange
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Dickens O Ochieng
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Velma Kivali
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Dawn Zimmerman
- Global Health Program, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Veterinary Initiative for Endangered Wildlife, Bozeman, Montana, USA
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Disease, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Marieke Rosenbaum
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Felicia B Nutter
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sharon L Deem
- Institute for Conservation Medicine, Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Milkesa A, Rufael T, Kinfe G, Belaineh R, Bulbula A, Cho D, Naimuddin M, Sori T, Dinka H. A sero-epidemiological analysis of Coxiella burnetii infection and its risk factors in livestock from Addis Ababa, Adama, and Modjo abattoirs and pastoral areas of Oromia, Ethiopia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012287. [PMID: 39012848 PMCID: PMC11251603 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coxiella burnetii is causing infections in both humans and animals, resulting in Q fever and Coxiellosis, respectively. Information on the occurrence of C. burnetii infection is scarce in Ethiopia. This study estimated the sero-prevalence of C. burnetii infection and associated risk factors in four common livestock species from Addis Ababa, Adama, and Modjo abattoirs and pastoral areas of Oromia, Ethiopia. RESULTS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Sera samples were analyzed for the presence of anti-C. burnetii antibodies using an indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay kit. Out of the 4140 serum samples tested, 777 (18.77%; 95% CI: 17.59, 19.99) were found positive for C. burnetii. The sero-prevalence estimate was 27.17% at Addis Ababa abattoir, 19.41% at Adama abattoir, 19.13% at Modjo abattoir and 12.1% in animals tested from pastoral areas. Sera analysis at the animal species level showed that cattle exhibited the lowest sero-prevalence estimate (11.83%; 95% CI, 10.27-13.53%), while the highest was observed in camels (28.39%; 95% CI, 25.16-31.80%). The sero-prevalence estimate was 21.34% (95% CI, 18.86-23.99%) in goats and 20.17% (95% CI, 17.49-23.07%) in sheep. The results of multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that species, age, sex of animals and tick infestation were important risk factors for C. burnetii infection. The odds of infection were 3.22 times higher in camels and almost twice as high in goats and sheep compared to cattle. Adult animals were infected more likely (OR = 3.23) than young ones. Interestingly, a significant difference was observed in the sero-prevalence of infection between animals that were infested with ticks (OR = 16.32) and those which were tick-free. CONCLUSION This study provides valuable insights into the sero-epidemiology of C. burnetii infection in four common livestock species at major abattoirs and pastoral areas of Ethiopia. The findings highlight the need for further studies and implementing surveillance and biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of the disease in both humans and livestock to safeguard the economical and public health aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashenafi Milkesa
- Department of Applied Biology, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, Adama, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | | | - Donghee Cho
- Department of Applied Biology, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, Adama, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Naimuddin
- Department of Applied Biology, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, Adama, Ethiopia
| | - Teshale Sori
- Department of Clinical Studies, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Hunduma Dinka
- Department of Applied Biology, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, Adama, Ethiopia
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3
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Kamau MW, Witte C, Goosen W, Mutinda M, Villinger J, Getange D, Khogali R, von Fricken ME, Fèvre EM, Zimmerman D, Linton YM, Miller M. Comparison of test performance of a conventional PCR and two field-friendly tests to detect Coxiella burnetii DNA in ticks using Bayesian latent class analysis. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1396714. [PMID: 38962707 PMCID: PMC11220323 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1396714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Coxiella burnetii (C. burnetii)-infected livestock and wildlife have been epidemiologically linked to human Q fever outbreaks. Despite this growing zoonotic threat, knowledge of coxiellosis in wild animals remains limited, and studies to understand their epidemiologic role are needed. In C. burnetii-endemic areas, ticks have been reported to harbor and spread C. burnetii and may serve as indicators of risk of infection in wild animal habitats. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare molecular techniques for detecting C. burnetii DNA in ticks. Methods In total, 169 ticks from wild animals and cattle in wildlife conservancies in northern Kenya were screened for C. burnetii DNA using a conventional PCR (cPCR) and two field-friendly techniques: Biomeme's C. burnetii qPCR Go-strips (Biomeme) and a new C. burnetii PCR high-resolution melt (PCR-HRM) analysis assay. Results were evaluated, in the absence of a gold standard test, using Bayesian latent class analysis (BLCA) to characterize the proportion of C. burnetii positive ticks and estimate sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of the three tests. Results The final BLCA model included main effects and estimated that PCR-HRM had the highest Se (86%; 95% credible interval: 56-99%), followed by the Biomeme (Se = 57%; 95% credible interval: 34-90%), with the estimated Se of the cPCR being the lowest (24%, 95% credible interval: 10-47%). Specificity estimates for all three assays ranged from 94 to 98%. Based on the model, an estimated 16% of ticks had C. burnetii DNA present. Discussion These results reflect the endemicity of C. burnetii in northern Kenya and show the promise of the PCR-HRM assay for C. burnetii surveillance in ticks. Further studies using ticks and wild animal samples will enhance understanding of the epidemiological role of ticks in Q fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen W. Kamau
- Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science, and Innovation – National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Global Health Program, Smithsonian National Zoo Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Carmel Witte
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science, and Innovation – National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- The Center for Wildlife Studies, South Freeport, ME, United States
| | - Wynand Goosen
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science, and Innovation – National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | | | - Jandouwe Villinger
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Dennis Getange
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rua Khogali
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Michael E. von Fricken
- College of Public Health and Health Professionals, Department of Environmental and Global Health University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Eric Maurice Fèvre
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Dawn Zimmerman
- Veterinary Initiative for Endangered Wildlife, Bozeman, MT, United States
| | - Yvonne-Marie Linton
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU) Smithsonian Institution Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, United States
- One Health Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), Silver Spring, MD, United States
- Department of Entomology, Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History (NMNH), Washington, DC, United States
| | - Michele Miller
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science, and Innovation – National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Ahaduzzaman M, Reza MMB. Global and regional seroprevalence of coxiellosis in small ruminants: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Vet Med Sci 2024; 10:e1441. [PMID: 38613179 PMCID: PMC11015088 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1441] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coxiellosis is a neglected zoonosis for occupationally exposed people in many parts of the world. Sheep and goats are two important small ruminants that act as reservoirs for human contamination; however, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the epidemiological aspects of coxiellosis in sheep and goats at regional and global levels. The aim of this study was to systematically review the available articles on seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep and goats and estimate the overall seroprevalence in different regions. METHODS A systematic search strategy was performed in five electronic repositories for articles published until December 2021. Relevant data were extracted from the selected articles based on the inclusion criteria. A random effect meta-analysis model was used to analyse the data. Results are presented as the prevalence of seropositivity as a percentage and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep was 17.38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.59%-19.17%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in sheep ranged from 15.04% (95% CI: 7.68%-22.40%) to 19.14% (95% CI: 15.51%-22.77%), depending on region. The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in goats was 22.60% (95% CI: 19.54%-25.66%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in goats ranged from 6.33% (95% CI: 2.96%-9.71%) to 55.13% (95% CI: 49.61%-60.65%), depending on the region. The prevalence estimates also varied significantly in both sheep and goats depending on age, sex, and rearing systems of the animals (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Seroprevalence of coxiellosis in both sheep and goats is considerable. Routine monitoring of the sheep and goat populations is needed to prevent spillover infection in other livestock and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Ahaduzzaman
- Department of Medicine & SurgeryChattogram Veterinary & Animal Sciences University (CVASU)ChattogramBangladesh
| | - Md Moktadir Billah Reza
- Department of Medicine & SurgeryChattogram Veterinary & Animal Sciences University (CVASU)ChattogramBangladesh
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5
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Alkenani NA, Baroom HM, Almohimeed AA, Hassan SO, Mohammed MS, Alshehri LA, Alshehri SA, Abu Sulayman SM, Al-Maaqar SM, Alshaeri MA. Serological investigation of Coxiella burnetii infection (Query fever) in livestock in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. Vet World 2024; 17:842-847. [PMID: 38798290 PMCID: PMC11111712 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.842-847] [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: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Query fever (Q fever) is an endemic zoonotic disease and ruminants are considered to be the primary source of infection in humans. It is caused by Coxiella burnetii which is an obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen with a worldwide distribution. This study estimated the prevalence of Q fever in livestock with a history of abortion in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. Material and Methods Sera from 341 camels, 326 sheep, and 121 goats of either sex from various locations (Makkah, Jeddah, AL-Taif, AL-Qunfudah, AL-Laith, and AL-Kamil) were examined using a Q fever indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Among the 788 serum samples, 356 animals had anti-Coxiella burnetii immunoglobulin G antibodies with an overall seroprevalence of 45.4%. Significant differences were observed in seroprevalence between species and locations. Camels had the highest percentage of Q fever-positive sera, with a prevalence of 50.4%, followed by goats (44.6%) and sheep (36.8%), with a high significant difference between animals (p = 0.000). The prevalence was significantly higher in Makkah (65.4%) than in Jeddah (28.8%). Conclusion C. burnetii infection is prevalent in agricultural animals, especially camels maintained at livestock farms in Makkah province. Therefore, these animals considered as the main source of Q fever infections in Saudi Arabia, which is also a reason for the abortion in these animals. Therefore, there is an urgent need for further studies on Q fever infection with interventional approaches for prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naser A. Alkenani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box: 80203, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Environmental Protection and Sustainability Research Group, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan M. Baroom
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box: 80203, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Umm Alqura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adi A. Almohimeed
- Department of Microbiology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salaheldin O. Hassan
- Department of Microbiology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed S. Mohammed
- Department of Parasitology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Layla A. Alshehri
- Department of Parasitology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - S. A. Alshehri
- Department of Microbiology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman M. Abu Sulayman
- Department of Microbiology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh M. Al-Maaqar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box: 80203, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Faculty of Education, Department of Biology, Albaydha University, Al-Baydha, Yemen
| | - Majed A. Alshaeri
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box: 80203, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Environmental Protection and Sustainability Research Group, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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El-Alfy ES, Abbas I, Saleh S, Elseadawy R, Fereig RM, Rizk MA, Xuan X. Tick-borne pathogens in camels: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence in dromedaries. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2024; 15:102268. [PMID: 37769585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102268] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Published data on tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in camels worldwide have been collected to provide an overview of the global prevalence and species diversity of camelid TBPs. Several TBPs have been detected in dromedary camels, raising concerns regarding their role as natural or maintenance hosts for tick-borne pathogens. Insubstantial evidence exists regarding the natural infection of camels with Babesia spp., Theileria spp., Anaplasma spp., and Ehrlichia spp., particularly because most of the camels were considered healthy at the time of sampling. Based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, a pooled prevalence of 35.3% (95% CI: 22.6-48.1%) was estimated for Anaplasma, which was the most frequently tested TBP in dromedaries, and DNA of Anaplasma marginale, Anaplasma centrale, Anaplasma ovis, Anaplasma platys, and A. platys-like were isolated, of which ruminants and dogs are reservoirs. Similarly, the estimated pooled prevalence for the two piroplasmid genera; Babesia and Theileria was approximately equal (10-12%) regardless of the detection method (microscopy or PCR testing). Nevertheless, Babesia caballi, Theileria equi, and Theileria annulata DNA have frequently been detected in camels but they have not yet been proven to be natural hosts. Scarce data detected Babesia microti, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) DNA in blood of dromedaries, although ticks of the genus Ixodes are distributed in limited areas where dromedaries are raised. Interestingly, a pooled seroprevalence of 47.7% (26.3-69.2%) was estimated for Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, and viral RNA was detected in dromedary blood; however, their contribution to maintain the viral transmission cycles requires further experimental investigation. The substantially low incidence and scarcity of data on Rickettsia and Ehrlichia species could imply that camels were accidentally infected. In contrast, camels may play a role in the spread of Coxiella burnetii, which is primarily transmitted through the inhalation of aerosols emitted by diseased animals and contaminated environments. Bactrian camels showed no symptoms due to the examined TBPs, meanwhile, clinical disease was seen in alpacas infected with A. phagocytophilum. Similar to dromedaries, accidental tick bites may be the cause of TBP DNA found in the blood of Bactrian camels.
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Affiliation(s)
- El-Sayed El-Alfy
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Abbas
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Somaya Saleh
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Rana Elseadawy
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Ragab M Fereig
- Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena City, Qena 83523, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdo Rizk
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan; Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious and Fish Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-Cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
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Robi DT, Demissie W, Bogale A, Temteme S, Aleme M, Urge B. Epidemiological investigation of Coxiella burnetii in cattle and its association with Ixodid tick infestation in different agro-ecological zones of Southwest Ethiopia. Res Vet Sci 2023; 164:105015. [PMID: 37708827 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii is a serious zoonotic disease that causes significant economic losses in cattle production, including abortion, stillbirth, infertility, and reduced milk yield. However, little is known about the epidemiology of C. burnetii in Ethiopia. From November 2020 to November 2021, a cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of C. burnetii in cattle in various agro-ecologies of Southwest Ethiopia. Blood samples were collected from 461 cattle, and the serum samples were tested for the presence of C. burnetii antibodies using an indirect ELISA. To identify potential risk factors for C. burnetii seropositivity, a multivariable mixed-effect logistic regression analysis was used. The study found an overall seroprevalence of 8.68% (95% CI: 6.11-11.25) and 13.57% (95% CI: 9.56-17.58) at the animal and herd levels, respectively, in the study areas. The results of the study indicated that C. burnetii infection was a widespread disease in the study areas. C. burnetii seropositivity at the animal level was significantly associated with age (OR = 4.1, 95%CI: 1.47-10.92), herd size (OR = 3.9, 95%CI: 1.21-12.66), management system (OR = 9.7, 95%CI: 1.27-27.25), cattle access to dogs, cats, and mice (OR = 2.5, 95%CI: 1.21-5.28), accessibility of cattle to wild animals (OR = 4.2, 95%CI: 1.01-17.18), presence of ticks on cattle (OR = 2.3, 95%CI: 1.12-4.83), and history of abortion (OR = 3.8, 95%CI: 1.78-8.23). A herd level analysis identified several risk factors for C. burnetii infection, including the management system (OR = 3.8, 95%CI: 1.59-8.98), agro-ecology (OR = 2.8, 95%CI: 1.43-7.21), herd size (OR = 4.3, 95%CI: 1.69-9.76), and accessibility of cattle to dogs, cats, and mice (OR = 2.6, 95%CI: 1.18-3.96). Therefore, it is important to implement appropriate control methods and raise public awareness about C. burnetii zoonotic transmission. Moreover, further studies should be conducted to isolate and characterize C. burnetii as a cause of reproductive problems and in disease reservoirs such as ticks and wildlife in the study areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dereje Tulu Robi
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box, 34, Tepi, Ethiopia.
| | - Wondimagegn Demissie
- Jimma University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 307, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Ararsa Bogale
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box, 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Shiferaw Temteme
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box, 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Melkam Aleme
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box, 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Beksisa Urge
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Holeta Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Holeta, Ethiopia
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Holloway P, Gibson M, Nash S, Holloway T, Cardwell J, Al Omari B, Abu‐Basha E, Mangtani P, Guitian J. A cross-sectional study of Q fever in Camels: Risk factors for infection, the role of small ruminants and public health implications for desert-dwelling pastoral communities. Zoonoses Public Health 2023; 70:238-247. [PMID: 36601879 PMCID: PMC10952281 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Q fever represents an important 'neglected zoonosis', with high prevalences recorded across the Middle East region. Among rural desert-dwelling communities in the region, camel milk is largely consumed raw, due to perceptions of dromedaries as a uniquely clean livestock species mentioned in the Qur'an and Islamic hadith, while milk from other livestock species is usually boiled. As a result, camels present a unique public health threat among such communities from milk-borne pathogens, including Coxiella burnetii. In view of this, a cross-sectional study was conducted among dromedary herds in southern Jordan between September 2017 and October 2018, including 404 camels from 121 randomly selected herds. In addition, 510 household members associated with these herds were interviewed regarding potential high-risk practices for zoonotic transmission. Weight adjusted camel population seroprevalence for C. burnetii was 49.6% (95% CI: 44.7-54.5), with evidence of maternally derived immunity in calves ≤6 months old. Adjusted herd-level prevalence was 76.0% (95% CI 72.7-80.2). It was estimated 30.4% (144/477) of individuals consumed raw milk from infected herds monthly or more. Following multivariable logistic regression analysis, seropositive status in camels was found to be associated with increasing age, high herd tick burdens, keeping the herd together throughout the year including when calving, and owning larger (>50) sheep and goat flocks, with goats presenting a higher risk than sheep. Racing camel status was found to be protective. Socioculturally appropriate interventions aimed at raising awareness of potential risks associated with drinking raw camel milk, alongside appropriate livestock management interventions, should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stephen Nash
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | | | | | - Bilal Al Omari
- Jordan University of Science and TechnologyAr‐RamthaJordan
| | - Ehab Abu‐Basha
- Jordan University of Science and TechnologyAr‐RamthaJordan
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9
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Sadiki V, Gcebe N, Mangena ML, Ngoshe YB, Adesiyun AA. Prevalence and risk factors of Q fever ( Coxiella burnetii) in cattle on farms of Limpopo province, South Africa. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1101988. [PMID: 37180062 PMCID: PMC10169714 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1101988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Q fever in animals and humans and its economic and public health significance has been widely reported worldwide but in South Africa. There are few studies on the prevalence of this zoonosis and its associated risk factors in South African livestock. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence, molecular prevalence, and risk factors associated with C. burnetii in cattle on farms in South Africa's Limpopo province. Out of 383 cattle tested for antibodies, the overall seroprevalence was 24.28%. Herd size of >150 (OR: 9.88; 95%CI: 3.92-24.89; p < 0.01) remained associated with C. burnetii seropositivity in cattle. For PCR detection, targeting IS1111 fragment, cattle with no abortion history (OR: 0.37; 95%CI: 0.18-0.77; p < 0.01) and herd size of >150 (OR: 3.52; 95%CI: 1.34-9.24; p < 0.01) remained associated with C. burnetii positivity. The molecular prevalence in sheath scrapings and vaginal swabs by IS1111 PCR was 15.67%. Cohen's kappa agreement test revealed a fair agreement between the PCR and ELISA results (k = 0.40). Sequence analysis revealed that the amplicons had similarities to the C. burnetii transposase gene fragment, confirming the presence of the pathogen. The higher seroprevalence than molecular prevalence indicated a past C. burnetii infection, no bacterial shedding through vaginal mucus in cows, or preputial discharge in bulls. Similarly, the detection of C. burnetii by PCR in the absence of antibodies could be partly explained by recent infections in which antibodies have not yet been produced against the bacteria, or the level of these antibodies was below the detectability threshold. The presence of the pathogen in cattle and the evidence of exposure, as shown by both PCR and ELISA suggests an active circulation of the pathogen. This study demonstrated that C. burnetii is widespread in the study area and that a herd size of >150 is associated with C. burnetii seroprevalence and molecular prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vhahangwele Sadiki
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Agricultural Research Council–Bacteriology and Zoonotic Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nomakorinte Gcebe
- Agricultural Research Council–Bacteriology and Zoonotic Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Maruping L. Mangena
- Agricultural Research Council–Transboundary Animal Diseases Programme, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Yusuf B. Ngoshe
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Abiodun A. Adesiyun
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
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Kratou M, Belkahia H, Selmi R, Andolsi R, Dhibi M, Mhadhbi M, Messadi L, Ben Said M. Diversity and Phylogeny of Cattle Ixodid Ticks and Associated Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia spp. in Tunisia. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040552. [PMID: 37111438 PMCID: PMC10146803 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne rickettsioses are mainly caused by obligate intracellular bacteria belonging to the spotted fever group (SFG) of the Rickettsia genus. So far, the causative agents of SFG rickettsioses have not been detected in cattle ticks from Tunisia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the diversity and phylogeny of ticks associated with cattle from northern Tunisia and their associated Rickettsia species. Adult ticks (n = 338) were collected from cattle in northern Tunisia. The obtained ticks were identified as Hyalomma excavatum (n = 129), Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (n = 111), Hyalomma marginatum (n = 84), Hyalomma scupense (n = 12) and Hyalomma rufipes (n = 2). After DNA extraction from the ticks, 83 PCR products based on the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene were sequenced and a total of four genotypes for Rh. sanguineus s.l., two for Hy. marginatum and Hy. excavatum and only one for Hy. scupense and Hy. rufipes were recorded, with the occurrence of one, two and three novel genotypes, respectively, for Hy. marginatum, Hy. excavatum and Rh. sanguineus s.l. mitochondrial 16S rRNA partial sequences. The tick DNA was tested for the presence of Rickettsia spp. by using PCR measurements and sequencing targeting three different genes (ompB, ompA and gltA). Of the 338 analyzed ticks, 90 (26.6%), including 38 (34.2%) Rh. sanguineus s.l., 26 (20.1%) Hy. excavatum, 25 (29.8%) Hy. marginatum and one (50%) Hy. rufipes tick, were positive for Rickettsia spp. Based on 104 partial sequences of the three analyzed genes, the BLAST analysis and phylogenetic study showed the infection of Hy. excavatum, Hy. marginatum and Rh. sanguineus s.l. tick specimens with R. massiliae, R. aeschlimannii and R. sibirica subsp. mongolitimonae and one Hy. rufipes tick specimen with R. aeschlimannii. In addition, coinfection with R. massiliae and R. aeschlimannii was reported in one Hy. marginatum and one Rh. sanguineus s.l. tick specimen, while a coinfection with R. massiliae and R. sibirica subsp. mongolitimonae was recorded in one Rh. sanguineus s.l. tick specimen. In conclusion, our study reports, for the first time in Tunisia, the infection of cattle ticks belonging to Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus genera with zoonotic Rickettsia species belonging to the SFG group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Kratou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Hanene Belkahia
- Laboratory of Microbiology, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Rachid Selmi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
- Ministry of National Defense, General Directorate of Military Health, Veterinary Service, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Rihab Andolsi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Mokhtar Dhibi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Moez Mhadhbi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Lilia Messadi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Mourad Ben Said
- Laboratory of Microbiology, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Parasitology, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
- Department of Basic Sciences, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
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Anastácio S, de Sousa SR, Saavedra MJ, da Silva GJ. Role of Goats in the Epidemiology of Coxiella burnetii. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11121703. [PMID: 36552213 PMCID: PMC9774940 DOI: 10.3390/biology11121703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Since its first description in the late 1930s, Q fever has raised many questions. Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent, is a zoonotic pathogen affecting a wide range of hosts. This airborne organism leads to an obligate, intracellular lifecycle, during which it multiplies in the mononuclear cells of the immune system and in the trophoblasts of the placenta in pregnant females. Although some issues about C. burnetii and its pathogenesis in animals remain unclear, over the years, some experimental studies on Q fever have been conducted in goats given their excretion pattern. Goats play an important role in the epidemiology and economics of C. burnetii infections, also being the focus of several epidemiological studies. Additionally, variants of the agent implicated in human long-term disease have been found circulating in goats. The purpose of this review is to summarize the latest research on C. burnetii infection and the role played by goats in the transmission of the infection to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Anastácio
- Vasco da Gama Research Centre (CIVG), Department of Veterinary Sciences, Vasco da Gama University School, Avenida José R. Sousa Fernandes 197 Lordemão, 3020-210 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center of Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Health Science Campus, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Sérgio Ramalho de Sousa
- Vasco da Gama Research Centre (CIVG), Department of Veterinary Sciences, Vasco da Gama University School, Avenida José R. Sousa Fernandes 197 Lordemão, 3020-210 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria José Saavedra
- Laboratory Medical Microbiology—Antimicrobials, Biocides and Biofilms Unit, Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Centre for the Research and Technology Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences and Inov4Agro—Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Gabriela Jorge da Silva
- Center of Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Health Science Campus, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
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12
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Muema J, Nyamai M, Wheelhouse N, Njuguna J, Jost C, Oyugi J, Bukania Z, Oboge H, Ogoti B, Makori A, Fernandez MDP, Omulo S, Thumbi S. Endemicity of Coxiella burnetii infection among people and their livestock in pastoral communities in northern Kenya. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11133. [PMID: 36303929 PMCID: PMC9593183 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Coxiella burnetti can be transmitted to humans primarily through inhaling contaminated droplets released from infected animals or consumption of contaminated dairy products. Despite its zoonotic nature and the close association pastoralist communities have with their livestock, studies reporting simultaneous assessment of C. burnetti exposure and risk-factors among people and their livestock are scarce. Objective This study therefore estimated the seroprevalence of Q-fever and associated risk factors of exposure in people and their livestock. Materials and methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in pastoralist communities in Marsabit County in northern Kenya. A total of 1,074 women and 225 children were enrolled and provided blood samples for Q-fever testing. Additionally, 1,876 goats, 322 sheep and 189 camels from the same households were sampled. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect individual- and household/herd-level data. Indirect IgG ELISA kits were used to test the samples. Results Household-level seropositivity was 13.2% [95% CI: 11.2–15.3]; differences in seropositivity levels among women and children were statistically insignificant (p = 0.8531). Lactating women had higher odds of exposure, odds ratio (OR) = 2.4 [1.3–5.3], while the odds of exposure among children increased with age OR = 1.1 [1.0–1.1]. Herd-level seroprevalence was 83.7% [81.7–85.6]. Seropositivity among goats was 74.7% [72.7–76.7], while that among sheep and camels was 56.8% [51.2–62.3] and 38.6% [31.6–45.9], respectively. Goats and sheep had a higher risk of exposure OR = 5.4 [3.7–7.3] and 2.6 [1.8–3.4], respectively relative to camels. There was no statistically significant association between Q-fever seropositivity and nutrition status in women, p = 0.900 and children, p = 1.000. We found no significant association between exposure in people and their livestock at household level (p = 0.724) despite high animal exposure levels, suggesting that Q-fever exposure in humans may be occurring at a scale larger than households. Conclusion The one health approach used in this study revealed that Q-fever is endemic in this setting. Longitudinal studies of Q-fever burden and risk factors simultaneously assessed in human and animal populations as well as the socioeconomic impacts of the disease and further explore the role of environmental factors in Q-fever epidemiology are required. Such evidence may form the basis for designing Q-fever prevention and control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josphat Muema
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya,Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA,Corresponding author.
| | - Mutono Nyamai
- Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA,Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Joseph Njuguna
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Christine Jost
- United States Agency for International Development's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA), Washington, DC, USA,Global Health Support Initiative III, Social Solutions International, Washington DC, USA
| | - Julius Oyugi
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Zipporah Bukania
- Center for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Harriet Oboge
- Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA
| | - Brian Ogoti
- Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anita Makori
- Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Sylvia Omulo
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA,Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, USA
| | - S.M. Thumbi
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA,Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya,Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, USA,South African Center for Epidemiological Modelling Analysis, South Africa,Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, UK
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13
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Wainaina M, Lindahl JF, Dohoo I, Mayer-Scholl A, Roesel K, Mbotha D, Roesler U, Grace D, Bett B, Al Dahouk S. Longitudinal Study of Selected Bacterial Zoonoses in Small Ruminants in Tana River County, Kenya. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10081546. [PMID: 36013964 PMCID: PMC9414833 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10081546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucellosis, Q fever, and leptospirosis are priority zoonoses worldwide, yet their epidemiology is understudied, and studies investigating multiple pathogens are scarce. Therefore, we selected 316 small ruminants in irrigated, pastoral, and riverine settings in Tana River County and conducted repeated sampling for animals that were initially seronegative between September 2014 and June 2015. We carried out serological and polymerase chain reaction tests and determined risk factors for exposure. The survey-weighted serological incidence rates were 1.8 (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.3–2.5) and 1.3 (95% CI: 0.7–2.3) cases per 100 animal-months at risk for Leptospira spp. and C. burnetii, respectively. We observed no seroconversions for Brucella spp. Animals from the irrigated setting had 6.83 (95% CI: 2.58–18.06, p-value = 0.01) higher odds of seropositivity to C. burnetii than those from riverine settings. Considerable co-exposure of animals to more than one zoonosis was also observed, with animals exposed to one zoonosis generally having 2.5 times higher odds of exposure to a second zoonosis. The higher incidence of C. burnetii and Leptospira spp. infections, which are understudied zoonoses in Kenya compared to Brucella spp., demonstrate the need for systematic prioritization of animal diseases to enable the appropriate allocation of resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Wainaina
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, 12277 Berlin, Germany; (A.M.-S.); (S.A.D.)
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (K.R.); (D.M.)
- Animal & Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (J.F.L.); (D.G.); (B.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Johanna F. Lindahl
- Animal & Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (J.F.L.); (D.G.); (B.B.)
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, 75237 Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 75007 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ian Dohoo
- Centre for Veterinary Epidemiologic Research, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada;
| | - Anne Mayer-Scholl
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, 12277 Berlin, Germany; (A.M.-S.); (S.A.D.)
| | - Kristina Roesel
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (K.R.); (D.M.)
- Animal & Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (J.F.L.); (D.G.); (B.B.)
| | - Deborah Mbotha
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (K.R.); (D.M.)
- Animal & Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (J.F.L.); (D.G.); (B.B.)
| | - Uwe Roesler
- Institute for Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Delia Grace
- Animal & Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (J.F.L.); (D.G.); (B.B.)
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Bernard Bett
- Animal & Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (J.F.L.); (D.G.); (B.B.)
| | - Sascha Al Dahouk
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, 12277 Berlin, Germany; (A.M.-S.); (S.A.D.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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14
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Selmi R, Belkahia H, Sazmand A, Ben Said M, Messadi L. Epidemiology and genetic characteristics of tick-borne bacteria in dromedary camels of the world. Acta Trop 2022; 234:106599. [PMID: 35810831 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
This review presents updated knowledge on the main tick-borne bacteria infecting one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) around the world. Camels are increasingly the subject of several scientific investigations, showing that they are receptive and carriers of several zoonotic bacteria. An appraisal is also given of the relative public health importance of these bacterial infections according to One Health concept. Microscopic, serologic and molecular findings are appropriately generated in order to exploit epidemiological data, and phylogeographic specificities associated to each vector-borne bacterium. Indeed, camels and their ticks harbour similar species and genotypes of pathogenic bacteria commonly identified in other animals, e.g., Anaplasma spp.,Ehrlichia spp., Borrelia spp., Rickettsia spp., Coxiella burnetii, Bartonella spp. and hemotrophic mycoplasmas. This evidence suggests an epidemiological role of camels in the spread of these pathogens in their natural habitats. However, these infections are commonly asymptomatic in camels resulting in underestimation of the impact of these infections. Furthermore, camels have recently been proven to have their own specific unclassified strains, such as Candidatus Anaplasma camelii and Candidatus Bartonella camelii, implying that possible interactions may lead to the emergence of pathogenic and zoonotic bacteria. In camel-rearing areas of the world, spatial and temporal spread of these infections, due to climatic and ecological changes and human activities such as development projects and urbanization, is expected. Hence the data presented herein provides a basis for strategic frameworks for the research and the development of novel diagnosis and control strategies worldwide, which are needed to protect camels, other livestock, and people in contact with dromedaries from threats that arthropod-borne pathogens can pose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachid Selmi
- Laboratory of Microbiology at the National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia; Ministry of National Defense, General Directorate of Military Health, Military center of Veterinary Medicine, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Hanène Belkahia
- Laboratory of Microbiology at the National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Alireza Sazmand
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan 6517658978, Iran
| | - Mourad Ben Said
- Laboratory of Microbiology at the National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia; Department of Basic Sciences, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Lilia Messadi
- Laboratory of Microbiology at the National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia.
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15
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Lin GS, Zhao MM, Li XQ, Yu HX. A Case Report of Infective Endocarditis with Failure of the Empirical Treatment—Q Fever Endocarditis Diagnosed by Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:2545-2550. [PMID: 35611141 PMCID: PMC9124493 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s361969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infective endocarditis (IE) can be caused by a variety of pathogens. Endocarditis due to the Coxiella burnetii (C. burnetii) infection is common in patients with negative blood culture results and usually occurs in patients with previous valvular heart disease, impaired immune function, and during pregnancy. The diagnosis is difficult based on the conventional diagnostic method, and serious adverse outcomes may occur in the case of delayed diagnosis. Case Report In the present study, a case of a 43-year-old male patient with previous valvular heart disease was reported. The patient was admitted with a diagnosis of IE, but the etiology was unclear. Accurate diagnosis and treatment were achieved by combining metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) with Q fever serological antibody assay. Conclusion Metagenomic next-generation sequencing has been increasingly applied in clinical practice in recent years to detect the DNA or RNA in samples, and this could play a decisive role in the etiological diagnosis of some infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Shuai Lin
- Department of Infectious Disease, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, 264000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mao-Mao Zhao
- Department of Infectious Disease, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, 264000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Qing Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, 264000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong-Xia Yu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, 264000, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Hong-Xia Yu, Department of Infectious Disease, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, 264000, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 15053573266, Email
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16
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Mwololo D, Nthiwa D, Kitala P, Abuom T, Wainaina M, Kairu-Wanyoike S, Lindahl JF, Ontiri E, Bukachi S, Njeru I, Karanja J, Sang R, Grace D, Bett B. Sero-epidemiological survey of Coxiella burnetii in livestock and humans in Tana River and Garissa counties in Kenya. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010214. [PMID: 35239658 PMCID: PMC8923444 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Coxiella burnetii is a widely distributed pathogen, but data on its epidemiology in livestock, and human populations remain scanty, especially in developing countries such as Kenya. We used the One Health approach to estimate the seroprevalance of C. burnetii in cattle, sheep, goats and human populations in Tana River county, and in humans in Garissa county, Kenya. We also identified potential determinants of exposure among these hosts. Methods Data were collected through a cross-sectional study. Serum samples were taken from 2,727 animals (466 cattle, 1,333 goats, and 928 sheep) and 974 humans and screened for Phase I/II IgG antibodies against C. burnetii using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data on potential factors associated with animal and human exposure were collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariable analyses were performed with households as a random effect to adjust for the within-household correlation of C. burnetii exposure among animals and humans, respectively. Results The overall apparent seroprevalence estimates of C. burnetii in livestock and humans were 12.80% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11.57–14.11) and 24.44% (95% CI: 21.77–27.26), respectively. In livestock, the seroprevalence differed significantly by species (p < 0.01). The highest seroprevalence estimates were observed in goats (15.22%, 95% CI: 13.34-17.27) and sheep (14.22%, 95% CI: 12.04–16.64) while cattle (3.00%, 95% CI: 1.65–4.99) had the lowest seroprevalence. Herd-level seropositivity of C. burnetii in livestock was not positively associated with human exposure. Multivariable results showed that female animals had higher odds of seropositivity for C. burnetii than males, while for animal age groups, adult animals had higher odds of seropositivity than calves, kids or lambs. For livestock species, both sheep and goats had significantly higher odds of seropositivity than cattle. In human populations, men had a significantly higher odds of testing positive for C. burnetii than women. Conclusions This study provides evidence of livestock and human exposure to C. burnetii which could have serious economic implications on livestock production and impact on human health. These results also highlight the need to establish active surveillance in the study area to reduce the disease burden associated with this pathogen. Q fever caused by Coxiella burnetii is a significant zoonotic disease that affects wildlife, domestic animals and humans. This study determined the prevalence of antibodies to C. burnetii in livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) and human populations in arid and semi-arid areas of Kenya between December 2013 and February 2014. We also identified potential factors that were associated with exposure among the above-targeted hosts. Results from this study showed considerable exposure in both livestock and human populations. However, human exposure to this pathogen at the household level was not correlated with herd-level seropositivity. Further studies are needed to elucidate the transmission routes of this pathogen among humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damaris Mwololo
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel Nthiwa
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Embu, Embu, Kenya
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - Philip Kitala
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Tequiero Abuom
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Salome Kairu-Wanyoike
- Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Johanna F. Lindahl
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Enoch Ontiri
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Salome Bukachi
- Institute of Anthropology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ian Njeru
- Division of Disease Surveillance and Response, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joan Karanja
- Division of Disease Surveillance and Response, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Delia Grace
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
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Troupin C, Ellis I, Doukouré B, Camara A, Keita M, Kagbadouno M, Bart JM, Diallo R, Lacôte S, Marianneau P, Groschup MH, Tordo N. Seroprevalence of brucellosis, Q fever and Rift Valley fever in domestic ruminants in Guinea in 2017-2019. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:64. [PMID: 35120506 PMCID: PMC8815129 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03159-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brucellosis, Q fever and Rift Valley fever are considered as Neglected Zoonotic Diseases (NZDs) leading to socioeconomic losses in livestock globally, and particularly in developing countries of Africa where they are under-reported. In this study, we evaluated the seroprevalence of these 3 zoonotic diseases in domestic ruminants in Guinea from 2017 to 2019. A total of 1357 sera, sampled from 463 cattle, 408 goats and 486 sheep, were collected in 17 Guinean prefectures and analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS Cattle was the species with highest seroprevalence (5 to 20-fold higher than in small ruminants) for the three diseases. The seroprevalence of brucellosis, mostly focused in Western Guinea, was 11.0% (51 of 463) in cattle, 0.4% (2 in 486) in sheep while no specific antibodies were found in goats. Q fever, widespread across the country, was the most frequently detected zoonosis with a mean seroprevalence of 20.5% (95 in 463), 4.4% (18 in 408) and 2.3% (11 in 486) in cattle, goats and sheep, respectively. The mean seroprevalence of RVF was 16.4% (76 in 463) in cattle, 1.0% (4 in 408) in goats and 1.0% (5 in 486) in sheep. Among the samples 19.3% were seropositive for at least one of the three NZDs, 2.5% showed specific antibodies against at least two pathogens and 4 cattle (0.8%) were seropositive for all three pathogens. In cattle, adults over 3-years old and females presented a higher antibody seroprevalence for the three diseases, in congruence with putative exposure risk. CONCLUSIONS This study confirms the circulation of these three zoonotic pathogens in Guinea and highlights the need for implementing a syndromic surveillance of ruminant abortions by the Guinean veterinary authorities as well as for the screening of the human population at risk (veterinarians, breeders, slaughterers) in a One Health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Troupin
- Institut Pasteur de Guinée, BP 4416, Conakry, Guinea
- Present address: Institut Pasteur du Cambodge, Virology Unit, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | | | | | - Alimou Camara
- Institut Pasteur de Guinée, BP 4416, Conakry, Guinea
- Institut National de Santé Publique, Conakry, Guinea
| | - Moustapha Keita
- Institut Supérieur Des Sciences Et de Médecine Vétérinaire, Dalaba, Guinea
| | - Moise Kagbadouno
- Programme National de Lutte Contre La Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine, Conakry, Guinea
| | - Jean-Mathieu Bart
- Umr Intertryp Ird-Cirad, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Ramadan Diallo
- Laboratoire Central de Diagnostic Vétérinaire, Conakry, Guinea
| | | | | | - Martin H Groschup
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Greifswald Insel Riems, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Noël Tordo
- Institut Pasteur de Guinée, BP 4416, Conakry, Guinea.
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Adamu SG, Kabir J, Umoh JU, Raji MA. Seroprevalence of Coxiella burnetii in sheep flocks in Kaduna State, Northwestern Nigeria. Acta Vet Hung 2021; 69:234-238. [PMID: 34491900 DOI: 10.1556/004.2021.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors of Q fever in sheep in the northern part of Kaduna State, Nigeria. This study aimed to determine Coxiella burnetii infection and its risk factors in sheep in Kaduna State. A total of 400 blood samples consisting of 259 samples from females and 141 from males were aseptically collected from the jugular vein of sheep from flocks in Kaduna State. The sera obtained were screened for Q fever using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). The obtained data were analysed to determine whether there is a relationship between sex, age, and the animals tested. The analysis revealed that 8.0% of the sera was seropositive by iELISA. There was no significant difference in Q fever seropositivity in the study area according to the sex of sheep (P > 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) in Q fever seropositivity according to the age of sheep. This study indicated a high seroprevalence of Q fever mainly among female animals and older sheep. Further studies are required to determine the epizootiology of Q fever in the study area more precisely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaibu Gidado Adamu
- 1 Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, P. M. B. 1069 Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
| | - Junaidu Kabir
- 2 Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
| | - Jarlath Udo Umoh
- 2 Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
| | - Mashood Abiola Raji
- 3 Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
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Cook EAJ, de Glanville WA, Thomas LF, Kiyong'a A, Kivali V, Kariuki S, Bronsvoort BMDC, Fèvre EM. Evidence of exposure to C. burnetii among slaughterhouse workers in western Kenya. One Health 2021; 13:100305. [PMID: 34430697 PMCID: PMC8367830 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2021.100305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Q fever, caused by C. burnetii, has been reported in slaughterhouse workers worldwide. The most reported risk factor for seropositivity is the workers' role in the slaughterhouse. This study examined the seroprevalence and risk factors for antibodies to C. burnetii in slaughterhouse workers in western Kenya to fill a data gap relating to this emerging disease in East Africa. Individuals were recruited from all consenting slaughterhouses in the study area between February and November 2012. Information was collected from participating workers regarding demographic data, animals slaughtered and role in the slaughterhouse. Sera samples were screened for antibodies to C. burnetii using a commercial ELISA and risk factors associated with seropositivity were identified using multi-level logistic regression analysis. Slaughterhouse workers (n = 566) were recruited from 84 ruminant slaughterhouses in western Kenya. The seroprevalence of antibodies to C. burnetii was 37.1% (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 33.2–41.2%). The risk factors identified for C. burnetii seropositivity included: male workers compared to female workers, odds ratio (OR) 5.40 (95% CI 1.38–21.22); slaughtering cattle and small ruminants compared to those who only slaughtered cattle, OR 1.52 (95% CI 1.06–2.19). In addition, specific roles in the slaughterhouse were associated with increased odds of being seropositive, including cleaning the slaughterhouse, OR 3.98 (95% CI 1.39–11.43); cleaning the intestines, OR 3.24 (95% CI 1.36–7.73); and flaying the carcass OR 2.63 (95% CI 1.46–4.75) compared to being the slaughterman or foreman. We identified that slaughterhouse workers have a higher seroprevalence of antibodies to C. burnetii compared to published values in the general population from the same area. Slaughterhouse workers therefore represent an occupational risk group in this East African setting. Workers with increased contact with the viscera and fluids are at higher risk for exposure to C. burnetii. Education of workers may reduce transmission, but an alternative approach may be to consider the benefits of vaccination in high-risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William Anson de Glanville
- International Livestock Research Institute, Old Naivasha Road, PO Box 30709, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya.,Center for One Health, University of Global Health Equity, Rwanda
| | - Lian Francesca Thomas
- International Livestock Research Institute, Old Naivasha Road, PO Box 30709, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya.,Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Alice Kiyong'a
- International Livestock Research Institute, Old Naivasha Road, PO Box 30709, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Velma Kivali
- International Livestock Research Institute, Old Naivasha Road, PO Box 30709, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samuel Kariuki
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, PO Box 19464-00200, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Barend Mark de Clare Bronsvoort
- Roslin Institute, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK.,Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Eric Maurice Fèvre
- International Livestock Research Institute, Old Naivasha Road, PO Box 30709, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya.,Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston CH64 7TE, UK
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20
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SEROLOGICAL EVIDENCE OF COXIELLA BURNETII INFECTION IN THE WHITE RHINOCEROS ( CERATOTHERIUM SIMUM) IN SOUTH AFRICA. J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 52:573-579. [PMID: 34130400 DOI: 10.1638/2020-0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Coxiellosis, or Query (Q) fever, a disease caused by the intracellular bacteria Coxiella burnetii, was recently described in a managed breeding herd of white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) in the southeastern United States. Clinical disease often results in abortion and could represent a conservation challenge for this species. In addition to the reproductive and herd management consequences, coxiellosis is also a zoonotic disease. Infection or clinical disease in any free-ranging rhinoceros species in a national park setting has not been previously described. In this study, evidence of prior infection was measured by immunofluorescent antibody titers in 89 serum samples collected from white rhinoceros within private reserves and a national park in South Africa. Total seropositivity was 48/89 (53.9% [95% CI, 43.6-63.9%]). Animals on private reserves had a seropositivity of 21/51 (41.1% [95% CI, 27.1-55.2%]), and national park rhinoceros had a higher rate of seropositivity at 71.0% [95% CI, 55.9-86.2%] (27/38; P= 0.004). Adults had a higher seropositivity compared with subadults (P= 0.03). There was no difference in seropositivity between sexes (P > 0.05). Results demonstrate that South African white rhinoceros populations are exposed to Coxiella, which could result in underrecognized reproductive consequences. Further studies should investigate potential implications for public health and conservation management of this species.
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21
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Campbell Z, Coleman P, Guest A, Kushwaha P, Ramuthivheli T, Osebe T, Perry B, Salt J. Prioritizing smallholder animal health needs in East Africa, West Africa, and South Asia using three approaches: Literature review, expert workshops, and practitioner surveys. Prev Vet Med 2021; 189:105279. [PMID: 33581421 PMCID: PMC8024747 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2021.105279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Managing the health needs of livestock contributes to reducing poverty and improving the livelihoods of smallholder and pastoralist livestock keepers globally. Animal health practitioners, producers, policymakers, and researchers all must prioritize how to mobilize limited resources. This study employed three approaches to prioritize animal health needs in East and West Africa and South Asia to identify diseases and syndromes that impact livestock keepers. The approaches were a) systematic literature review, b) a series of expert workshops, and c) a practitioner survey of veterinarians and para-veterinary professionals. The top constraints that emerged from all three approaches include endo/ ectoparasites, foot and mouth disease, brucellosis, peste des petits ruminants, Newcastle disease, and avian influenza. Expert workshops additionally identified contagious caprine pleuropneumonia, contagious bovine pleuropneumonia, mastitis, and reproductive disorders as constraints not emphasized in the literature review. Practitioner survey results additionally identified nutrition as a constraint for smallholder dairy and pastoralist small ruminant production. Experts attending the workshops agreed most constraints can be managed using existing veterinary technologies and best husbandry practices, which supports a shift away from focusing on individual diseases and new technologies towards addressing systemic challenges that limit access to veterinary services and inputs. Few research studies focused on incidence/ prevalence of disease and impact, suggesting better incorporation of socio-economic impact measures in future research would better represent the interests of livestock keepers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoë Campbell
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), P.O. Box 30709, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya.
| | - Paul Coleman
- H20 Venture Partners, 33-35 George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AY, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Guest
- H20 Venture Partners, 33-35 George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AY, United Kingdom
| | - Peetambar Kushwaha
- GALVmed Asia Office, Unit 118 & 120 B, Splendor Forum, Plot No 3, Jasola District Centre, Jasola, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Thembinkosi Ramuthivheli
- GALVmed Africa Office, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Swing One, Naivasha Road, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Tom Osebe
- GALVmed Africa Office, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Swing One, Naivasha Road, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Brian Perry
- Nuffield College of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom; College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Arthurstone House, Meigle, Blairgowrie, PH12 8QW, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy Salt
- GALVmed UK Office, Doherty Building, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Muturi M, Akoko J, Nthiwa D, Chege B, Nyamota R, Mutiiria M, Maina J, Thumbi SM, Nyamai M, Kahariri S, Sitawa R, Kimutai J, Kuria W, Mwatondo A, Bett B. Serological evidence of single and mixed infections of Rift Valley fever virus, Brucella spp. and Coxiella burnetii in dromedary camels in Kenya. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009275. [PMID: 33770095 PMCID: PMC7997034 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Camels are increasingly becoming the livestock of choice for pastoralists reeling from effects of climate change in semi-arid and arid parts of Kenya. As the population of camels rises, better understanding of their role in the epidemiology of zoonotic diseases in Kenya is a public health priority. Rift Valley fever (RVF), brucellosis and Q fever are three of the top priority diseases in the country but the involvement of camels in the transmission dynamics of these diseases is poorly understood. We analyzed 120 camel serum samples from northern Kenya to establish seropositivity rates of the three pathogens and to characterize the infecting Brucella species using molecular assays. We found seropositivity of 24.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 16.5–31.8%) for Brucella, 20.8% (95% CI: 13.6–28.1%) and 14.2% (95% CI: 7.9–20.4%) for Coxiella burnetii and Rift valley fever virus respectively. We found 27.5% (95% CI: 19.5–35.5%) of the animals were seropositive for at least one pathogen and 13.3% (95% CI: 7.2–19.4%) were seropositive for at least two pathogens. B. melitensis was the only Brucella spp. detected. The high sero-positivity rates are indicative of the endemicity of these pathogens among camel populations and the possible role the species has in the epidemiology of zoonotic diseases. Considering the strong association between human infection and contact with livestock for most zoonotic infections in Kenya, there is immediate need to conduct further research to determine the role of camels in transmission of these zoonoses to other livestock species and humans. This information will be useful for designing more effective surveillance systems and intervention measures. Dromedary camels are well adapted to the arid and semi-arid environment that makes up about 80% of Kenya’s landmass. As such, camels play an important role in the socio-economic wellbeing and food security of pastoralists in the country. However, the species remains relatively neglected in scientific research, one of the main reasons being camels are mostly found in remote, low-income, arid regions of Africa and Asia. We carried out a study to determine the levels of exposure of camels in northern Kenya to Brucella spp., Coxiella burnetii and Rift Valley fever virus, three priority zoonotic pathogens in the country. We found high levels of exposure to the three pathogens, indicating the important role camels might play in the epidemiology of the zoonotic diseases in humans and other livestock. Based on the study findings, we argue for the immediate need for investments in disease surveillance and control strategies for priority zoonotic disease in camels in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew Muturi
- Zoonotic Disease Unit Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - James Akoko
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel Nthiwa
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Embu, Embu, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - Josphat Maina
- Zoonotic Disease Unit Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - S. M. Thumbi
- Center for Epidemiological and Modelling Analysis, University of Nairobi Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Nairobi, Kenya
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Paul G Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Mutono Nyamai
- Center for Epidemiological and Modelling Analysis, University of Nairobi Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Nairobi, Kenya
- Paul G Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Samuel Kahariri
- Kenya Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rinah Sitawa
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joshua Kimutai
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Wilson Kuria
- Kenya Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Athman Mwatondo
- Zoonotic Disease Unit Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
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Devaux CA, Osman IO, Million M, Raoult D. Coxiella burnetii in Dromedary Camels ( Camelus dromedarius): A Possible Threat for Humans and Livestock in North Africa and the Near and Middle East? Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:558481. [PMID: 33251255 PMCID: PMC7674558 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.558481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The "One Health" concept recognizes that human health is connected to animal health and to the ecosystems. Coxiella burnetii-induced human Q fever is one of the most widespread neglected zoonosis. The main animal reservoirs responsible for C. burnetii transmission to humans are domesticated ruminants, primarily goats, sheep, and cattle. Although studies are still too sparse to draw definitive conclusions, the most recent C. burnetii serosurvey studies conducted in herds and farms in Africa, North Africa, Arabian Peninsula, and Asia highlighted that seroprevalence was strikingly higher in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) than in other ruminants. The C. burnetii seroprevalence in camel herds can reach more than 60% in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Sudan, and 70 to 80% in Algeria and Chad, respectively. The highest seroprevalence was in female camels with a previous history of abortion. Moreover, C. burnetii infection was reported in ticks of the Hyalomma dromedarii and Hyalomma impeltatum species collected on camels. Even if dromedary camels represent <3% of the domesticated ruminants in the countries of the Mediterranean basin Southern coast, these animals play a major socioeconomic role for millions of people who live in the arid zones of Africa, Middle East, and Asia. In Chad and Somalia, camels account for about 7 and 21% of domesticated ruminants, respectively. To meet the growing consumers demand of camel meat and milk (>5 million tons/year of both raw and pasteurized milk according to the Food and Agriculture Organization) sustained by a rapid increase of population (growth rate: 2.26-3.76 per year in North Africa), dromedary camel breeding tends to increase from the Maghreb to the Arabic countries. Because of possible long-term persistence of C. burnetii in camel hump adipocytes, this pathogen could represent a threat for herds and breeding farms and ultimately for public health. Because this review highlights a hyperendemia of C. burnetii in dromedary camels, a proper screening of herds and breeding farms for C. burnetii is urgently needed in countries where camel breeding is on the rise. Moreover, the risk of C. burnetii transmission from camel to human should be further evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian A. Devaux
- Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Ikram Omar Osman
- Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Faculty of Sciences Ben-Ben-M'Sik, University Hassan II, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Matthieu Million
- Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Didier Raoult
- Aix-Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
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Elelu N, Bankole AA, Musa RJ, Odetokun IA, Rabiu M, Biobaku KT, Aremu A, Ahmed AO, Ghali MI, Raji MA, Ogo NI, Cutler SJ, Ogundipe GAT. Serospatial epidemiology of zoonotic Coxiella burnetii in a cross section of cattle and small ruminants in northern Nigeria. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240249. [PMID: 33075103 PMCID: PMC7571698 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The persistent and highly transmissible Coxiella burnetii is a neglected infection that negatively affects reproductive parameters of livestock. It is also of zoonotic importance and has been reported to cause devastating human infections globally. Domestic ruminants represent the most frequent source of human infection. Data from Nigeria are very few and outdated. There is a significant gap in up-to-date information on the exposure, spatial distribution and risk factors of infection of this important disease. The exposure to C. burnetii was determined using sensitive serological assays in cattle and small ruminants. A total of 538 animals made up of 268 cattle and 270 small ruminants were sampled from three northern Nigerian states. The proportion of cattle sampled that were seropositive from the study locations were: Kwara 14/90 (15.6%; 95% CI: 8.8–24.7); Plateau 10/106 (9.43%; 95% CI: 4.6–16.7) and Borno 4/72 (5.56%; 95% CI: 1.5–13.6) states. Lower seroprevalence was recorded among the small ruminants sampled, with positives recorded from sheep and goat sampled from only Kwara state 6/184 (3.3%; 95% CI: 1.2–7.0); while none of the small ruminants sampled from Plateau were seropositive. The results of the bivariate analysis showed that none of the tested independent variables (village, age group, sex, breed of cattle, presence of ticks, reproductive status, and management system) were statistically significant factors associated with seropositivity of cattle for antibodies to C. burnetii. Stakeholders involved in animal husbandry should be duly educated on proper disposal of birth products as well as bodily fluids in order to reduce environmental contamination, persistence and human infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nusirat Elelu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Ramat Jummai Musa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | | | - Musa Rabiu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | | | - Abdulfatai Aremu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | - Sally Jane Cutler
- School of Health, Sport and Bioscience, University of East London, London, United Kingdom
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25
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Adesiyun AA, Knobel DL, Thompson PN, Wentzel J, Kolo FB, Kolo AO, Conan A, Simpson GJG. Sero-Epidemiological Study of Selected Zoonotic and Abortifacient Pathogens in Cattle at a Wildlife-Livestock Interface in South Africa. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2019; 20:258-267. [PMID: 31841655 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2019.2519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A cross sectional sero-epidemiological study was conducted on cattle in a communal farming area adjacent to Kruger National Park at a wildlife-livestock interface in South Africa. A total of 184 cattle were screened for exposure to 5 abortifacient or zoonotic pathogens, namely Coxiella burnetii, Toxoplasma gondii, Chlamydophila abortus, Neospora caninum, and Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. In addition, the virus neutralization test was used to confirm the presence of antibodies to RVFV. The seroprevalence of C. burnetii, T. gondii, C. abortus, N. caninum, and RVFV antibodies was 38.0%, 32.6%, 20.7%, 1.6%, and 0.5%, respectively, and varied between locations (p < 0.001). Seroprevalence of C. burnetii and T. gondii was highly clustered by location (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.57), and that of C. abortus moderately so (ICC = 0.11). Seroprevalence was not associated with sex or age for any pathogen, except for C. abortus, for which seroprevalence was positively associated with age (p = 0.01). The predominant mixed infections were C. burnetii and T. gondii (15.2%) and C. burnetii, T. gondii, and C. abortus (13.0%). The serological detection of the five abortifacient pathogens in cattle indicates the potential for economic losses to livestock farmers, health impacts to domestic animals, transmission across the livestock-wildlife interface, and the risk of zoonotic transmission. This is the first documentation of T. gondii infection in cattle in South Africa, while exposure to C. burnetii, C. abortus, and N. caninum infections is being reported for the first time in cattle in a wildlife-livestock interface in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abiodun A Adesiyun
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Darryn L Knobel
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Center for Conservation Medicine and Ecosystem Health, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Peter N Thompson
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jeanette Wentzel
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Hans Hoheisen Wildlife Research Station, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Francis B Kolo
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Agatha O Kolo
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Anne Conan
- Center for Conservation Medicine and Ecosystem Health, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Gregory J G Simpson
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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26
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Larson PS, Espira L, Grabow C, Wang CA, Muloi D, Browne AS, Deem SL, Fèvre EM, Foufopoulos J, Hardin R, Eisenberg JNS. The sero-epidemiology of Coxiella burnetii (Q fever) across livestock species and herding contexts in Laikipia County, Kenya. Zoonoses Public Health 2019; 66:316-324. [PMID: 30788910 PMCID: PMC6563451 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Query fever (Q fever), is among the most highly infectious zoonotic pathogens transmitted among livestock, with chronic effects challenging to veterinary and medical detection and care systems. Transmission among domestic livestock species can vary regionally due to herd management practices that determine which livestock species are raised, whether or not livestock are in contact with wildlife, and the susceptibility of these livestock to infection. To explore how different livestock management practices are associated with the risk of infection in multispecies environments, we carried out a comparative study of three types of herd management systems in the central Kenyan county of Laikipia: agro-commercial, mixed conservancy/commercial, and smallholder ranches. We tested C. burnetii antibody seroprevalence in four common livestock species. Across all management types, the highest seroprevalence was in camels (20%), followed by goats (18%), sheep (13%), and cattle (6%). We observed a lower odds of testing seropositive for young compared to adult animals (adjusted OR = 0.44 [95% CI 0.24, 0.76]), and for males compared to females (adjusted OR = 0.52 [95% CI 0.33, 0.80]). Animals from mixed conservancy/commercial and smallholder operations had a higher odds of testing seropositive compared to animals from agro-commercial ranches (adjusted OR = 5.17 [95% CI 2.71, 10.44] and adjusted OR = 2.21 [95% CI 1.17, 4.43] respectively). These data suggest that herd management practices might affect the transmission dynamics of C. burnetiiin arid African ecosystems like those seen in Kenya where several transmission modes are possible, risk of drought has promoted new livestock species such as camels, and multiple wildlife species may co-occur with livestock on the landscape. Further longitudinal studies are needed to disentangle the mechanisms underlying these patterns, and further explore transmission patterns between wildlife, domestic animal, and human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter S Larson
- School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Leon Espira
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Cole Grabow
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Christine A Wang
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Dishon Muloi
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.,Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - A Springer Browne
- Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Sharon L Deem
- Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Eric M Fèvre
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.,Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Johannes Foufopoulos
- School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Rebecca Hardin
- School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Joseph N S Eisenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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