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Hamond C, Adam EN, Stone NE, LeCount K, Anderson T, Putz EJ, Camp P, Hicks J, Stuber T, van der Linden H, Bayles DO, Sahl JW, Schlater LK, Wagner DM, Nally JE. Identification of equine mares as reservoir hosts for pathogenic species of Leptospira. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1346713. [PMID: 38784659 PMCID: PMC11112012 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1346713] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Equine leptospirosis can result in abortion, stillbirth, neonatal death, placentitis, and uveitis. Horses can also act as subclinical reservoir hosts of infection, which are characterized as asymptomatic carriers that persistently excrete leptospires and transmit disease. In this study, PCR and culture were used to assess urinary shedding of pathogenic Leptospira from 37 asymptomatic mares. Three asymptomatic mares, designated as H2, H8, and H9, were PCR-positive for lipL32, a gene specific for pathogenic species of Leptospira. One asymptomatic mare, H9, was culture-positive, and the recovered isolate was classified as L. kirschneri serogroup Australis serovar Rushan. DNA capture and enrichment of Leptospira genomic DNA from PCR-positive, culture-negative samples determined that asymptomatic mare H8 was also shedding L. kirschneri serogroup Australis, whereas asymptomatic mare H2 was shedding L. interrogans serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae. Sera from all asymptomatic mares were tested by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and 35 of 37 (94.6%) were seropositive with titers ranging from 1:100 to 1:3200. In contrast to asymptomatic mares, mare H44 presented with acute spontaneous abortion and a serum MAT titer of 1:102,400 to L. interrogans serogroup Pomona serovar Pomona. Comparison of L. kirschneri serogroup Australis strain H9 with that of L. interrogans serogroup Pomona strain H44 in the hamster model of leptospirosis corroborated differences in virulence of strains. Since lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a protective antigen in bacterin vaccines, the LPS of strain H9 (associated with subclinical carriage) was compared with strain H44 (associated with spontaneous abortion). This revealed different LPS profiles and immunoreactivity with reference antisera. It is essential to know what species and serovars of Leptospira are circulating in equine populations to design efficacious vaccines and diagnostic tests. Our results demonstrate that horses in the US can act as reservoir hosts of leptospirosis and shed diverse pathogenic Leptospira species via urine. This report also details the detection of L. kirschneri serogroup Australis serovar Rushan, a species and serotype of Leptospira, not previously reported in the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Hamond
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Emma N. Adam
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Nathan E. Stone
- The Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States
| | - Karen LeCount
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Tammy Anderson
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Ellie J. Putz
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Patrick Camp
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Jessica Hicks
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Tod Stuber
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Hans van der Linden
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Darrell O. Bayles
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Jason W. Sahl
- The Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States
| | - Linda K. Schlater
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
| | - David M. Wagner
- The Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States
| | - Jarlath E. Nally
- National Centers for Animal Health Leptospira Working Group, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, United States
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dos Santos GF, Petri FAM, Pires GP, Panneitz AK, Braga ER, Malcher CS, Mongruel ACB, de Castro JHT, Mathias LA, de Oliveira LG. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Leptospira spp. Infection in Backyard Pigs in the State of Paraná, Brazil. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:468. [PMID: 37888596 PMCID: PMC10611261 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8100468] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease that poses a significant threat to human and animal health worldwide. Among different animal species, pigs are known to play a crucial role in the transmission of the pathogenic Leptospira spp. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Leptospira spp. infection and associated risk factors in backyard pigs in the state of Paraná, Brazil. A set of 1393 blood samples were collected from pigs on 188 subsistence properties from 136 different municipalities of the Paraná state and tested using the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) to detect antibodies against 24 different Leptospira spp. serovars. The results revealed an overall seroprevalence of 15.87% (221/1393; 95% CI: 13.95-17.78%) for Leptospira spp. antibodies, with Icterohaemorrhagiae, Butembo, and Pomona being the most commonly detected in serovar levels. The lack of rodent control (OR 1.12, 95% CI: 0.63-1.98, p = 0.02) was the only variable associated with disease incidence and was identified as a significant risk factor for Leptospira spp. infection in this context. These findings highlight the urgent need to implement effective control measures, such as improved housing conditions, rodent control, and veterinary assistance, to prevent the spread of this zoonotic disease in backyard pigs in Paraná, Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Fernandes dos Santos
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil; (G.F.d.S.); (F.A.M.P.); (G.P.P.); (A.K.P.); (E.R.B.); (C.S.M.); (A.C.B.M.); (L.A.M.)
| | - Fernando Antônio Moreira Petri
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil; (G.F.d.S.); (F.A.M.P.); (G.P.P.); (A.K.P.); (E.R.B.); (C.S.M.); (A.C.B.M.); (L.A.M.)
| | - Gabriele Polia Pires
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil; (G.F.d.S.); (F.A.M.P.); (G.P.P.); (A.K.P.); (E.R.B.); (C.S.M.); (A.C.B.M.); (L.A.M.)
| | - Ana Karolina Panneitz
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil; (G.F.d.S.); (F.A.M.P.); (G.P.P.); (A.K.P.); (E.R.B.); (C.S.M.); (A.C.B.M.); (L.A.M.)
| | - Eduarda Ribeiro Braga
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil; (G.F.d.S.); (F.A.M.P.); (G.P.P.); (A.K.P.); (E.R.B.); (C.S.M.); (A.C.B.M.); (L.A.M.)
| | - Clarisse Sena Malcher
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil; (G.F.d.S.); (F.A.M.P.); (G.P.P.); (A.K.P.); (E.R.B.); (C.S.M.); (A.C.B.M.); (L.A.M.)
| | - Anna Claudia Baumel Mongruel
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil; (G.F.d.S.); (F.A.M.P.); (G.P.P.); (A.K.P.); (E.R.B.); (C.S.M.); (A.C.B.M.); (L.A.M.)
| | | | - Luís Antônio Mathias
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil; (G.F.d.S.); (F.A.M.P.); (G.P.P.); (A.K.P.); (E.R.B.); (C.S.M.); (A.C.B.M.); (L.A.M.)
| | - Luís Guilherme de Oliveira
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil; (G.F.d.S.); (F.A.M.P.); (G.P.P.); (A.K.P.); (E.R.B.); (C.S.M.); (A.C.B.M.); (L.A.M.)
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Anderson T, Hamond C, Haluch A, Toot K, Nally JE, LeCount K, Schlater LK. Animals Exposed to Leptospira Serogroups Not Included in Bacterins in the United States and Puerto Rico. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8030183. [PMID: 36977184 PMCID: PMC10051158 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8030183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonotic disease. Pathogenic leptospires colonize the renal tubules and genital tract of animals and are excreted via urine. Transmission occurs via direct contact or through contaminated water or soil. The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) is the gold standard for the serodiagnosis of leptospirosis. The present study aims to evaluate animal exposure to Leptospira in the U.S. and Puerto Rico during the period 2018-2020. The presence of antibodies against pathogenic Leptospira spp. was assessed with the MAT according to the standards of the World Organisation for Animal Health. A total of 568 sera were submitted for diagnostic, surveillance, or import/export testing from the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Seropositivity (≥1:100) was 51.8% (294/568) with agglutinating antibodies found in 115 (39.1%) cattle, 84 (28.6%) exotic animals, 38 (12.9%) horses, 22 (7.5%) goats, 15 (5.1%) dogs, 11 (3.7%) swine, and 9 (3.1%) sheep. The most detected serogroups were Australis, Grippotyphosa, and Ballum. The results showed that animals were exposed to serogroups/serovars not included in commercial bacterins such as Ballum, Bratislava (only in swine vaccine), and Tarassovi. Our findings suggest that more studies should include culture and concomitant genotyping to reduce animal disease and zoonotic risk through efficacious vaccine and diagnostic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammy Anderson
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, APHIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA 50010, USA
| | - Camila Hamond
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, APHIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA 50010, USA
| | - Andréa Haluch
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, APHIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA 50010, USA
| | - Kari Toot
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, APHIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA 50010, USA
| | - Jarlath E Nally
- Infectious Bacterial Diseases Research Unit, ARS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA 50010, USA
| | - Karen LeCount
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, APHIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA 50010, USA
| | - Linda K Schlater
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, APHIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA 50010, USA
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Macaluso G, Torina A, Blanda V, Guercio A, Lastra A, Giacchino I, D’Agostino R, Sciacca C, D’Incau M, Bertasio C, Grippi F. Leptospira in Slaughtered Fattening Pigs in Southern Italy: Serological Survey and Molecular Typing. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050585. [PMID: 35268152 PMCID: PMC8909543 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this study, serological and molecular assays in 55 pigs in Sicily were conducted in order to investigate Leptospira spp. prevalence and to carry out strain characterization. A seropositivity rate of 16.4% was determined; 3.64% of kidney samples tested positive for pathogenic Leptospiral DNA. Obtained data showed that Leptospira infection is common among pigs in southern Italy, confirming the importance of Leptospiral infection in pigs and reaffirming the potential role of these animals as a source of infection for humans (occupational risk) and other animals. Our study delivers a comprehensive overview based on up-to-date data to deepen the knowledge of swine leptospiral infections, characterize new potential emerging strains, and reinforce control measures able to reduce the infection risk in swine herds. Abstract Leptospirosis is a re-emerging zoonosis of worldwide significance; a wide spectrum of wild and domestic animal species act as natural or accidental hosts. Swine can act as maintenance or accidental hosts of pathogenic Leptospira spp. This study aimed at investigation of Leptospira spp. prevalence and diversity in slaughtered pigs in southern Italy (Sicily). In total, 55 samples of kidneys and blood were collected. Microscopic agglutination test and real-time PCR were performed to detect pathogenic and intermediately pathogenic Leptospira. Partial rpoB gene sequencing and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) were performed to characterize Leptospira species. The analysis showed a seropositivity rate of 16.4%, with Australis representing the most frequently identified serogroup (63.64%); Pomona and Sejroe were detected with a prevalence of 27.27% and 9.09%, respectively. Pathogenic Leptospiral DNA was detected in 2 kidney samples (3.64%). Leptospira were identified through MLST as L. borgpetersenii serovar Tarassovi (serogroup Tarassovi). Obtained data confirmed the presence of Leptospira infection among pigs in southern Italy, suggesting that management of these animals may be considered an occupational risk for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giusi Macaluso
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (C.S.); (F.G.)
| | - Alessandra Torina
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (C.S.); (F.G.)
| | - Valeria Blanda
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (C.S.); (F.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-09-1656-5235
| | - Annalisa Guercio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (C.S.); (F.G.)
| | - Antonio Lastra
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (C.S.); (F.G.)
| | - Ilenia Giacchino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (C.S.); (F.G.)
| | - Rosalia D’Agostino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (C.S.); (F.G.)
| | - Carmela Sciacca
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (C.S.); (F.G.)
| | - Mario D’Incau
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per la Leptospirosi, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (M.D.); (C.B.)
| | - Cristina Bertasio
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per la Leptospirosi, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (M.D.); (C.B.)
| | - Francesca Grippi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (C.S.); (F.G.)
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Schommer SK, Harrison N, Linville M, Samuel MS, Hammond SL, Wells KD, Prather RS. Serologic titers to Leptospira in vaccinated pigs and interpretation for surveillance. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260052. [PMID: 34784395 PMCID: PMC8594815 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Diagnosis and surveillance of pathogenic Leptospira is difficult as organisms may be intermittently shed and in small numbers. Therefore, serologic testing by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) is the primary screening method for leptospirosis. While a MAT titer ≥1:100 is considered to be a positive result, interpretation is complicated by the use of commercial vaccines in pigs. Most guidelines for interpretation of MAT titers in pigs were published in the 1970’s and 1980’s, prior to the development of the current multivalent vaccines. We evaluated MAT titers in routinely vaccinated healthy research pigs compared to their unvaccinated cohorts. Our study confirmed previous reports that the Pomona serovar elicits minimal antibody response even after a second booster 6 months after initial vaccination. However, MAT titers of ≥1:3,200 were detected as early as 4 weeks post initial vaccination for serovars Bratislava and Icterohaemorrhagiae and remained as high as ≥1:1,600 prior to booster at 24 weeks post vaccination. Our study determined that high levels of MAT titers can occur from vaccination alone and high titers are not necessarily indicative of infection. Therefore, the interpretation of MAT titers as indicators of Leptospira infection should be readdressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan K. Schommer
- National Swine Resource and Research Center, Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Nicholas Harrison
- Office of Animal Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Michael Linville
- Office of Animal Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Melissa S. Samuel
- National Swine Resource and Research Center, Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Sabrina L. Hammond
- National Swine Resource and Research Center, Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Kevin D. Wells
- National Swine Resource and Research Center, Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Randall S. Prather
- National Swine Resource and Research Center, Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
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Influence of Selective Agents (EMJH-STAFF), Sample Filtration and pH on Leptospira interrogans Serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae Cultivation and Isolation from Swine Urine. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8060090. [PMID: 34070655 PMCID: PMC8226611 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8060090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospira spp. cause the zoonotic disease leptospirosis, which occurs in numerous mammalians worldwide. Isolation is still important for serotyping and genotyping of Leptospira, which in turn is essential for epidemiological surveillance of leptospirosis and the development of diagnostic tests and vaccines. However, isolation of Leptospira from clinical specimens is inherently insensitive. This study was conducted to examine the influence of selective agents, sample filtration, sample pH and the use of phosphate buffered saline (PBS) buffer for sample storage to improve the success of cultivation and isolation of Leptospira interrogans serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae from swine urine. EMJH (Ellinghausen McCullough, Johnson and Harris) medium including the selective agents sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim, amphotericin, fosfomycin and 5-fluorouracil (STAFF) increased the success of Leptospira isolation from spiked swine urine samples. Sample filtration yielded only negative results. Isolation in EMJH-STAFF was successful from swine urine with a density as low as 104 Leptospira/mL, and urine with pH ≤ 7 impaired the cultivation rate. Cultivation and isolation were not improved by the addition of PBS to spiked urine samples prior to storage for 24 h at 4 °C. The results of the study demonstrate that cultivation and isolation of leptospires from swine urine can be improved by enhanced methods.
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Zilch TJ, Lee JJ, Saleem MZ, Zhang H, Cortese V, Voris N, McDonough SP, Divers TJ, Chang YF. Equine leptospirosis: Experimental challenge of Leptospira interrogans serovar Bratislava fails to establish infection in naïve horses. Equine Vet J 2021; 53:845-854. [PMID: 33617667 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little information is available about experimental inoculation of leptospirosis in horses and the pathogenicity of Leptospira interrogans serovar Bratislava in this host. OBJECTIVES To determine the serological, clinical, pathological and haematological responses of horses to L. interrogans serovar Bratislava strain PigK151. STUDY DESIGN Randomised controlled in vivo experiment. METHODS Ten seronegative female foals were divided into 2 groups, control (n = 4) and challenged (n = 6). The challenged group received 1 × 109 leptospires divided equally between topical ocular and intraperitoneal injections. Blood and urine samples were analysed. The temperature was recorded daily for the first 9 days, then weekly. Sera were tested by microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Automated complete blood count, differential and chemistry panel were performed. Histopathological analysis was performed on sections of liver, kidney, urinary bladder, uterine body and pineal gland. Sample culturing was performed from blood, urine, liver, kidney, reproductive tract and vitreous humour. RESULTS No pyrexia was noted. PCR and culture were negative from all samples. Differences between groups were found in CBC, differential counts and serum biochemistry panel (or profile), suggesting that leptospiral challenge triggered an inflammatory response. No evidence of leptospirosis was found from histopathological analysis. All challenged foals developed a humoral response. The MAT allowed the confirmation of the infecting serovar at a later stage, but it also revealed cross-reactive results that were further explained by genomic analysis. MAIN LIMITATIONS This experimental challenge had two main limitations: (a) the results might have varied if another strain from the same serovar had been used and (b) the use of another route of infection and a higher bacterial dose might have achieved colonisation. CONCLUSIONS Based on these findings, it may suggest that L. interrogans serovar Bratislava is neither pathogenic nor host-adapted serovar for horses, although these results might have varied if another strain from the same serovar had been used instead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago J Zilch
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Jen-Jie Lee
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Muhammad Zain Saleem
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.,College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guanfzhou, China
| | | | | | - Sean P McDonough
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Thomas J Divers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Yung-Fu Chang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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8
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Cilia G, Bertelloni F, Cerri D, Fratini F. Leptospira fainei Detected in Testicles and Epididymis of Wild Boar ( Sus scrofa). BIOLOGY 2021; 10:193. [PMID: 33806519 PMCID: PMC7999772 DOI: 10.3390/biology10030193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a re-emerging and worldwide diffused zoonosis. Recently, the high importance of their epidemiology was explained by the intermediate Leptospira strains. Among these strains, Leptospira fainei was the first intermediate strain detected in domestic and wild swine. Wild boars (Sus scrofa) are well known as a reservoir, as well as all swine, for pathogenic Leptospira, but very little information is available concerning intermediate Leptospira infection. The investigation aim was to evaluate if intermediate Leptospira can infect the reproductive systems of wild boars hunted in the Tuscany region (Italy), as previously demonstrated for pathogenic ones. The reproductive system tissue (testicles, epididymides, uteri), and placentas and fetuses, were collected from 200 regularly hunted animals. Bacteriological examination and real-time PCR were performed to detect intermediate Leptospira DNA. Unfortunately, no isolates were obtained. Using real-time PCR, in six (3%) male organs (both testicles and epididymis), intermediate Leptospira DNA was found. The amplification of the 16S rRNA gene identified that all DNA obtained belong to Leptospira fainei. The results of this investigation highlighted for the first time the localization of Leptospira fainei in the male wild boar reproductive system, opening up a new avenue to further investigate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabrizio Bertelloni
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (G.C.); (D.C.); (F.F.)
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Cilia G, Bertelloni F, Piredda I, Ponti MN, Turchi B, Cantile C, Parisi F, Pinzauti P, Armani A, Palmas B, Noworol M, Cerri D, Fratini F. Presence of pathogenic Leptospira spp. in the reproductive system and fetuses of wild boars (Sus scrofa) in Italy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008982. [PMID: 33370309 PMCID: PMC7793250 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a re-emerging and globally spread zoonosis caused by pathogenic genomospecies of Leptospira. Wild boar (Sus scrofa) are an important Leptospira host and are increasing in population all over Europe. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate Leptospira spp. infection in the reproductive systems of wild boar hunted in two Italian regions: Tuscany and Sardinia. From 231 animals, reproductive system tissue samples (testicles, epididymides, uteri) as well as placentas and fetuses were collected. Bacteriological examination and Real-Time PCR were performed to detect pathogenic Leptospira (lipL32 gene). Leptospires were isolated from the testicles and epididymides of one adult and two subadult wild boar. Four isolates from the two subadult males were identified as Leptospira interrogans serogroup Australis by MLST, whereas Leptospira kirschneri serogroup Grippotyphosa was identified from the adult testicles and epididymis. Using Real-Time PCR, 70 samples were positive: 22 testicles (23.16%) and 22 epididymides (23.16%), 10 uteri (7.35%), 3 placentas (6.66%), and 13 fetuses (28.88%). Amplification of the rrs2 gene identified L. interrogans and L. kirschneri species. The results from this investigation confirmed that wild boar represent a potential source of pathogenic Leptospira spp. Isolation of Leptospira serogroups Australis and Grippotyphosa from the male reproductive system and the positive Real-Time PCR results from both male and female samples could suggest venereal transmission, as already demonstrated in pigs. Furthermore, placentas and fetuses were positive for the lipL32 target, and this finding may be related to a possible vertical transmission of pathogenic Leptospira. Leptospirosis is an infectious zoonotic disease present worldwide and is caused by bacteria belonging to genus Leptospira. Several domestic and wild animals could serve as reservoir hosts of these bacteria and could transmit them to humans, directly or indirectly. Generally, in asymptomatic carriers the infection involves the urinary system, the kidneys in particular, and leptospires are eliminated via urine. In some animals, Leptospira could also colonize the reproductive system as consequence of a systemic infection or venereal transmission. In this work, the Authors describe, for the first time, the detection of Leptospira from male and female reproductive organs of hunted wild boar via culture-dependent and -independent methods. These findings could suggest a possible vertical transmission in wild boar, but also a possible venereal transmission cycle among wild swine, which could accidentally involve domestic pigs too. Manipulation of these organs by hunters during slaughtering could also expose them to Leptospira infection. Obtained data add information on Leptospira epidemiology and highlight the importance of wildlife monitoring programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Cilia
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Ivana Piredda
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale of Sardinia, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Barbara Turchi
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Carlo Cantile
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Parisi
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Pinzauti
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Armani
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Bruna Palmas
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale of Sardinia, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Domenico Cerri
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Filippo Fratini
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Bertasio C, Papetti A, Scaltriti E, Tagliabue S, D’Incau M, Boniotti MB. Serological Survey and Molecular Typing Reveal New Leptospira Serogroup Pomona Strains among Pigs of Northern Italy. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9050332. [PMID: 32365494 PMCID: PMC7281294 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9050332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Swine act as both maintenance and incidental hosts of pathogenic Leptospira spp. Here, a serological test was performed on 131,660 pig sera collected between 2002 and 2017 from 4715 farms in Northern Italy. A positivity rate of 13.05% was determined. Australis was the most frequently identified serogroup (77.29%), followed by Pomona (18.47%), Tarassovi (1.51%) and Icterohaemorrhagie (1.40%). Culture isolation and real-time Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were carried out on 347 kidneys and 470 clinical samples, respectively. Overall, 133 strains were cultured successfully and 43 randomly chosen isolates were identified as serogroup Pomona. Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) revealed that 41 isolates and 8 DNA extracted from biological samples belonged to sequence type 140. Using a multiple-locus, variable-number tandem repeat analysis, 43 samples produced identical profiles but, after 2014, three new Leptospira interrogans serogroup Pomona genotypes were observed. Interestingly, two isolates showed new MLST profiles and an unclassified identification by monoclonal antibodies. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing clustered them into L. kirschneri species and a core genome MLST analysis revealed an allelic identity of 96% compared with Mozdok strains. Genotyping allowed us to discriminate leptospires and to identify new emerging strains. The accurate identification of infective strains is required for formulating preventive methods and intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Bertasio
- National Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis (NRCL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’ Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, via Bianchi 7/9, 25121 Brescia, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +030-22-90-309
| | - Alice Papetti
- National Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis (NRCL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’ Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, via Bianchi 7/9, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Erika Scaltriti
- Risk Analysis and Genomic Epidemiology Unit, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’ Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, Strada dei Mercati 13/a, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Silvia Tagliabue
- National Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis (NRCL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’ Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, via Bianchi 7/9, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Mario D’Incau
- National Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis (NRCL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’ Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, via Bianchi 7/9, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Maria Beatrice Boniotti
- National Reference Centre for Animal Leptospirosis (NRCL), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’ Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, via Bianchi 7/9, 25121 Brescia, Italy
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Evidence of leptospirosis in the kidneys and serum of feral swine (Sus scrofa) in the United States. Epidemiol Infect 2016; 145:87-94. [PMID: 27697080 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268816002247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is the most widespread zoonosis in humans worldwide. In the United States, widespread detection of antibodies to leptospirosis have been identified in feral swine (Sus scrofa) with the highest detection of serovars, Bratislava, Icterohaemorrhagiae, and Pomona. Over the past few years, feral swine populations have expanded their geographical range and distribution in the United States with reports in at least 39 of 50 states. Since feral swine serve as reservoirs for serovars that can infect humans, it is important to understand the risk of transmission. In order to learn more about the probability that feral swine shed infectious leptospires, we collected kidneys and paired serum when possible from 677 feral swine in 124 counties of 29 states. These counties had previously been identified as antibody positive for Leptospira interrogans serovars Bratislava, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Hardjo, Icterohaemorrhagiae or Pomona. Although exposure to these same six serovars of leptospirosis continued to be high (53% overall) in the counties we sampled, we detected leptospiral DNA in only 3·4% of feral swine kidneys tested. Based on these results, it appears that although feral swine can serve as a source of infection to humans, especially in those who are more likely to encounter them directly such as wildlife biologists, veterinarians, and hunters, the risk may be relatively low. However, further studies to examine the relationship between leptospiral shedding in the urine and kidneys in addition to culturing the organism are recommended in order to better understand the risk associated with feral swine.
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Abstract
Leptospirosis is a global disease of animals, which can have a major economic impact on livestock industries and is an important zoonosis. The current knowledge base is heavily biased towards the developed agricultural economies. The disease situation in the developing economies presents a major challenge as humans and animals frequently live in close association. The severity of disease varies with the infecting serovar and the affected species, but there are many common aspects across the species; for example, the acute phase of infection is mostly sub-clinical and the greatest economic losses arise from chronic infection causing reproductive wastage. The principles of, and tests for, diagnosis, treatment, control and surveillance are applicable across the species.
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Widespread detection of antibodies to Leptospira in feral swine in the United States. Epidemiol Infect 2014; 143:2131-6. [PMID: 25518910 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268814003148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
As feral swine continue to expand their geographical range and distribution across the United States, their involvement in crop damage, livestock predation, and pathogen transmission is likely to increase. Despite the relatively recent discovery of feral swine involvement in the aetiology of a variety of pathogens, their propensity to transmit and carry a wide variety of pathogens is disconcerting. We examined sera from 2055 feral swine for antibody presence to six serovars of Leptospira that can also infect humans, livestock or domestic animals. About 13% of all samples tested positive for at least one serovar, suggesting that Leptospira infection is common in feral swine. Further studies to identify the proportion of actively infected animals are needed to more fully understand the risk they pose.
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Pinna A, Martins G, Hamond C, Medeiros MA, de Souza GN, Lilenbaum W. Potential differences between Leptospira
serovars, host-adapted (Bratislava) and incidental (Copenhageni), in determining reproductive disorders in embryo transfer recipient mares in Brazil. Vet Rec 2014; 174:531. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.101444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Pinna
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| | - G. Martins
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| | - C. Hamond
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
| | - M. A. Medeiros
- Bio-Manguinhos; Oswaldo Cruz Foundation; Brazilian Ministry of Health; Rio de Janeiro RJ 21040-360 Brazil
| | | | - W. Lilenbaum
- Laboratory of Veterinary Bacteriology; Universidade Federal Fluminense; Niterói RJ 24210-130 Brazil
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Subharat S, Wilson PR, Heuer C, Collins-Emerson JM. Investigation of localisation ofLeptospiraspp. in uterine and fetal tissues of non-pregnant and pregnant farmed deer. N Z Vet J 2010; 58:281-5. [DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2010.69755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Stokes JE, Kaneene JB, Schall WD, Kruger JM, Miller R, Kaiser L, Bolin CA. Prevalence of serum antibodies against sixLeptospiraserovars in healthy dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2007; 230:1657-64. [PMID: 17542733 DOI: 10.2460/javma.230.11.1657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of antibodies against 6 Leptospira serovars and determine risk factors associated with positive Leptospira titers in healthy client-owned dogs in Michigan. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. ANIMALS 1,241 healthy dogs at least 4 months of age. PROCEDURES Dogs were examined by veterinarians at private practices. Vaccinated and unvaccinated dogs were enrolled in the study, which occurred prior to the availability of a 4-serovar (Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Icterohaemorrhagiae, and Pomona) Leptospira vaccine. Sera were tested by use of the microscopic agglutination test to determine antibody titers against Leptospira serovars Bratislava, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Hardjo, Icterohaemorrhagiae, and Pomona. A questionnaire was used to collect demographic information about each dog to identify risk factors associated with seropositive status. RESULTS 309 of 1,241 (24.9%) dogs had antibody titers against at least 1 of the 6 Leptospira serovars, which suggested exposure to Leptospira spp. Prevalence of antibodies was highest to serovar Grippotyphosa, followed by Bratislava, Canicola, Icterohaemorrhagiae, and Pomona. Age, travel outside Michigan, exercise outside fenced yards, and exposure to livestock and wildlife were significant risk factors for positive titers. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Among healthy dogs from the lower peninsula of Michigan, > 20% have antibodies against leptospiral serovars historically considered uncommon but more recently incriminated as causing clinical canine leptospirosis. Wildlife and livestock may be of increasing importance as reservoirs for canine leptospirosis as urbanization continues to occur. Expanded vaccination strategies may partially mitigate these trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E Stokes
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1314, USA
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Boqvist S, Chau BL, Gunnarsson A, Olsson Engvall E, Vågsholm I, Magnusson U. Animal- and herd-level risk factors for leptospiral seropositivity among sows in the Mekong delta, Vietnam. Prev Vet Med 2002; 53:233-45. [PMID: 11830296 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-5877(01)00263-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In 1998, a total of 424 sows had sera collected in the Mekong delta in Vietnam. Of these, 283 sows were from 151 small-scale family farms in 19 villages, and 141 from seven large-scale state farms. The sera were subjected to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for antibodies to 13 Leptospira serovars. The overall leptospiral seroprevalence for titres > or =1:100 and > or =1:400, was 73 and 29%, respectively, and was higher (P=0.001) at small- than at large-scale farms. The highest seroprevalence was recorded for Leptospira interrogans serovar (sv) bratislava (52%). At small-scale farms, higher prevalences were found to serovars L. interrogans sv icterohaemorrhagiae (P=0.04) and L. interrogans sv pomona (P=0.02). Epidemiological information (at the individual-animal and herd-levels) was collected with a questionnaire. The data were analysed using logistic multiple regression. At the animal-level, sows seropositive for L. interrogans sv australis and sv autumnalis had less direct contact with sows in neighbouring pens (odds ratio (OR)=0.3 and 0.4, respectively) and sows seronegative for L. interrogans sv bratislava were of lower age (OR=0.1 for seropositivity). Also, sows seropositive for L. interrogans sv icterohaemorrhagiae had higher odds (OR=5.8) if they had not been born on the farm (had been introduced to it as gilts). Herds seropositive for sv javanica showed association with farms not taking measures to control the local rodent population (OR=7.8). Serovar pomona was also linked to the use of artificial insemination (AI), as opposed to natural-breeding services (OR=11.2). These results indicate that housing and management could affect the seroprevalence of Leptospira infection in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Boqvist
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Centre of Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), P.O. Box 7039, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Choi C, Park YC, Park MA, Yoo CK, Park MY, Chae C. Seroprevalence of Leptospira serovars in Korean sows. Vet Rec 2001; 148:416. [PMID: 11327651 DOI: 10.1136/vr.148.13.416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Choi
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and School of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Kyounggi Do, Republic of Korea
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