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Farias IF, de Oliveira GMB, Lima EVM, Labruna MB, Horta MC. Parasitism on domestic cats by Amblyomma auricularium and serological evidence of exposure to Rickettsia amblyommatis. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2024; 33:e018123. [PMID: 38511817 PMCID: PMC10954250 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612024015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The domestic cat is not considered a primary host for any specific tick species; however, it can be affected by some Ixodidae species, such as Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato and Amblyomma spp. The study reports parasitism by Amblyomma auricularium and the detection of anti-Rickettsia spp. antibodies in domestic cats from a rural property in the Afrânio municipality, Pernambuco, Brazil. Amblyomma auricularium (24 nymphs, six females, and four males) and Amblyomma sp. (42 larvae) parasitized three cats, and 73 free-living ticks were captured in armadillo burrows: A. auricularium (36 nymphs, six females, five males) and Amblyomma sp. (26 larvae). Blood samples from cats were collected and the obtained plasma were subjected to indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) to detect antibodies against Rickettsia antigens. Thus, anti-Rickettsia spp. antibodies were determined (titers ranging from 128 to 512) and showed a predominant antibody response to Rickettsia amblyommatis or a very closely related genotype. This study reports the first infestation of nymphs and adults of A. auricularium on cats in a new area of occurrence in the semi-arid region of Northeastern Brazil and reports for the first time the presence of anti-Ricketsia antibodies in cats in the region, with R. amblyommatis as the probable infectious agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ila Ferreira Farias
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
- Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias no Semiárido, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - Glauber Meneses Barboza de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Erisson Victor Macedo Lima
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - Marcelo Bahia Labruna
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Mauricio Claudio Horta
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
- Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias no Semiárido, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
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Kidd L. Emerging Spotted Fever Rickettsioses in the United States. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2022; 52:1305-1317. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Morelli S, Diakou A, Di Cesare A, Colombo M, Traversa D. Canine and Feline Parasitology: Analogies, Differences, and Relevance for Human Health. Clin Microbiol Rev 2021; 34:e0026620. [PMID: 34378954 PMCID: PMC8404700 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00266-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cats and dogs are treated as family members by most pet owners. Therefore, a high quality of veterinary care and preventive medicine is imperative for animal health and welfare and for the protection of humans from zoonotic pathogens. There is a general perception of cats being treated as "small dogs," especially in the field of clinical parasitology. As a result, several important differences between the two animal species are not taken into proper consideration and are often overlooked. Dogs and cats are profoundly different under evolutionary, biological, ethological, behavioral, and immunological standpoints. These differences impact clinical features, diagnosis, and control of canine and feline parasites and transmission risk for humans. This review outlines the most common parasitoses and vector-borne diseases of dogs and cats, with a focus on major convergences and divergences, and discusses parasites that have (i) evolved based on different preys for dogs and cats, (ii) adapted due to different immunological or behavioral animal profiles, and (iii) developed more similarities than differences in canine and feline infections and associated diseases. Differences, similarities, and peculiarities of canine and feline parasitology are herein reviewed in three macrosections: (i) carnivorism, vegetarianism, anatomy, genetics, and parasites, (ii) evolutionary adaptation of nematodes, including veterinary reconsideration and zoonotic importance, and (iii) behavior and immune system driving ectoparasites and transmitted diseases. Emphasis is given to provide further steps toward a more accurate evaluation of canine and feline parasitology in a changing world in terms of public health relevance and One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Morelli
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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Nelder MP, Russell CB, Dibernardo A, Clow KM, Johnson S, Cronin K, Patel SN, Lindsay LR. Monitoring the patterns of submission and presence of tick-borne pathogens in Ixodes scapularis collected from humans and companion animals in Ontario, Canada (2011-2017). Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:260. [PMID: 34001256 PMCID: PMC8127263 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04750-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The universal nature of the human-companion animal relationship and their shared ticks and tick-borne pathogens offers an opportunity for improving public and veterinary health surveillance. With this in mind, we describe the spatiotemporal trends for blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) submissions from humans and companion animals in Ontario, along with pathogen prevalence. METHODS We tested tick samples submitted through passive surveillance (2011-2017) from humans and companion animals for Borrelia burgdorferi, Borrelia miyamotoi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia microti. We describe pathogen prevalence in ticks from humans and from companion animals and constructed univariable Poisson and negative binomial regression models to explore the spatiotemporal relationship between the rates of tick submissions by host type. RESULTS During the study, there were 17,230 blacklegged tick samples submitted from humans and 4375 from companion animals. Tick submission rates from companion animals were higher than expected in several public health units (PHUs) lacking established tick populations, potentially indicating newly emerging populations. Pathogen prevalence in ticks was higher in PHUs where established blacklegged tick populations exist. Borrelia burgdorferi prevalence was higher in ticks collected from humans (maximum likelihood estimate, MLE = 17.5%; 95% confidence interval, CI 16.97-18.09%) than from companion animals (9.9%, 95% CI 9.15-10.78%). There was no difference in pathogen prevalence in ticks by host type for the remaining pathogens, which were found in less than 1% of tested ticks. The most common co-infection B. burgdorferi + B. miyamotoi occurred in 0.11% of blacklegged ticks from humans and animals combined. Borrelia burgdorferi prevalence was higher in unengorged (21.9%, 95% CI 21.12-22.65%) than engorged ticks (10.0%, 95% CI 9.45-10.56%). There were no consistent and significant spatiotemporal relationships detected via regression models between the annual rates of submission of each host type. CONCLUSIONS While B. burgdorferi has been present in blacklegged ticks in Ontario for several decades, other tick-borne pathogens are also present at low prevalence. Blacklegged tick and pathogen surveillance data can be used to monitor risk in human and companion animal populations, and efforts are under consideration to unite surveillance efforts for the different target populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Nelder
- Enteric, Zoonotic and Vector-Borne Diseases, Health Protection, Operations and Response, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Curtis B Russell
- Enteric, Zoonotic and Vector-Borne Diseases, Health Protection, Operations and Response, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Antonia Dibernardo
- Field Studies, Zoonotic Diseases and Special Pathogens, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Katie M Clow
- Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Steven Johnson
- Informatics, Knowledge Services, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kirby Cronin
- Laboratory Surveillance and Data Management, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, ON, Canada.,National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Samir N Patel
- Bacteriology, Public Health Ontario, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - L Robbin Lindsay
- Field Studies, Zoonotic Diseases and Special Pathogens, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Schäfer I, Kohn B, Volkmann M, Müller E. Retrospective evaluation of vector-borne pathogens in cats living in Germany (2012-2020). Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:123. [PMID: 33632312 PMCID: PMC7905428 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04628-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood-feeding arthropods can transmit parasitic, bacterial, or viral pathogens to domestic animals and wildlife. Vector-borne infections are gaining significance because of increasing travel and import of pets from abroad as well as the changing climate in Europe. The main objective of this study was to assess the percentage of cats with positive test results for selected vector-borne pathogens in Germany and explore any possible association of such results with time spent abroad. METHODS This retrospective study included test results from cats included in the "Feline Travel Profile" established by the LABOKLIN laboratory at the request of veterinarians in Germany between April 2012 and March 2020. This diagnostic panel includes the direct detection of Hepatozoon spp. and Dirofilaria spp. via PCR as well as indirect detection assays (IFAT) for Ehrlichia spp. and Leishmania spp. The panel was expanded to include an IFAT for Rickettsia spp. from July 2015 onwards. RESULTS A total of 624 cats were tested using the "Feline Travel Profile." Serum for indirect detection assays was available for all 624 cats; EDTA samples for direct detection methods were available from 618 cats. Positive test results were as follows: Ehrlichia spp. IFAT 73 out of 624 (12%), Leishmania spp. IFAT 22 out of 624 (4%), Hepatozoon spp. PCR 53 out of 618 (9%), Dirofilaria spp. PCR 1 out of 618 cats (0.2%), and Rickettsia spp. IFAT 52 out of 467 cats (11%) tested from July 2015 onwards. Three cats had positive test results for more than one pathogen before 2015. After testing for Rickettsia spp. was included in 2015, 19 cats had positive test results for more than one pathogen (Rickettsia spp. were involved in 14 out of these 19 cats). CONCLUSIONS At least one pathogen could be detected in 175 out of 624 cats (28%) via indirect and/or direct detection methods. Four percent had positive test results for more than one pathogen. These data emphasize the importance of considering the above-mentioned vector-borne infections as potential differential diagnoses in clinically symptomatic cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingo Schäfer
- LABOKLIN GmbH and Co. KG, Bad Kissingen, Germany
- Clinic for Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Barbara Kohn
- Clinic for Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Volkmann
- Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Vikentjeva M, Geller J, Remm J, Golovljova I. Rickettsia spp. in rodent-attached ticks in Estonia and first evidence of spotted fever group Rickettsia species Candidatus Rickettsia uralica in Europe. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:65. [PMID: 33472659 PMCID: PMC7818765 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04564-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rickettsia spp. are human pathogens that cause a number of diseases and are transmitted by arthropods, such as ixodid ticks. Estonia is one of few regions where the distribution area of two medically important tick species, Ixodes persulcatus and I. ricinus, overlaps. The nidicolous rodent-associated Ixodes trianguliceps has also recently been shown to be present in Estonia. Although no data are available on human disease(s) caused by tick-borne Rickettsia spp. in Estonia, the presence of three Rickettsia species in non-nidicolous ticks has been previously reported. The aim of this study was to detect, identify and partially characterize Rickettsia species in nidicolous and non-nidicolous ticks attached to rodents in Estonia. RESULTS Larvae and nymphs of I. ricinus (n = 1004), I. persulcatus (n = 75) and I. trianguliceps (n = 117), all removed from rodents and shrews caught in different parts of Estonia, were studied for the presence of Rickettsia spp. by nested PCR. Ticks were collected from 314 small animals of five species [Myodes glareolus (bank voles), Apodemus flavicollis (yellow necked mice), A. agrarius (striped field mice), Microtus subterranius (pine voles) and Sorex araneus (common shrews)]. Rickettsial DNA was detected in 8.7% (103/1186) of the studied ticks. In addition to identifying R. helvetica, which had been previously found in questing ticks, we report here the first time that the recently described I. trianguliceps-associated Candidatus Rickettsia uralica has been identified west of the Ural Mountains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vikentjeva
- Department of Virology and Immunology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia. .,Department of Gene Technology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia.
| | - Julia Geller
- Department of Virology and Immunology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Jaanus Remm
- Department of Zoology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Irina Golovljova
- Department of Virology and Immunology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia.,Tallinn Children's Hospital, Tallinn, Estonia
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Hoque MM, Barua S, Kelly PJ, Chenoweth K, Kaltenboeck B, Wang C. Identification of Rickettsia felis DNA in the blood of domestic cats and dogs in the USA. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:581. [PMID: 33208186 PMCID: PMC7672164 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04464-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The main vector and reservoir host of Rickettsia felis, an emerging human pathogen causing flea-borne spotted fever, is the cat flea Ctenocephalides felis. While cats have not been found to be infected with the organism, significant percentages of dogs from Australia and Africa are infected, indicating that they may be important mammalian reservoirs. The objective of this study was to determine the presence of R. felis DNA in the blood of domestic dogs and cats in the USA. METHODS Three previously validated PCR assays for R. felis and DNA sequencing were performed on blood samples obtained from clinically ill domestic cats and dogs from 45 states (2008-2020) in the USA. The blood samples had been submitted for the diagnosis of various tick-borne diseases in dogs and feline infectious peritonitis virus, feline immunodeficiency virus, and Bartonella spp. in cats. Phylogenetic comparisons were performed on the gltA nucleotide sequences obtained in the study and those reported for R. felis and R. felis-like organisms. RESULTS Low copy numbers of R. felis DNA (around 100 copies/ml whole blood) were found in four cats (4/752, 0.53%) and three dogs (3/777, 0.39%). The very low levels of infection in clinically ill animals is consistent with R. felis being an unlikely cause of disease in naturally infected dogs and cats. The low copy numbers we found emphasize the requirement for very sensitive PCRs in prevalence studies. CONCLUSIONS The low prevalence of naturally infected PCR-positive cats is further evidence that cats are unlikely to be important reservoirs of R. felis. Similarly, the low prevalence in dogs suggests they are not important reservoirs in the USA. Investigations should continue into the role other mammalian species may be playing in the epidemiology of R. felis infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Monirul Hoque
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, 36832, USA
| | - Subarna Barua
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, 36832, USA
| | - Patrick John Kelly
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Island Main Road, West Farm, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Kelly Chenoweth
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, 36832, USA
| | - Bernhard Kaltenboeck
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, 36832, USA
| | - Chengming Wang
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, 36832, USA.
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Špitalská E, Kraljik J, Miklisová D, Boldišová E, Sparagano OAE, Stanko M. Circulation of Rickettsia species and rickettsial endosymbionts among small mammals and their ectoparasites in Eastern Slovakia. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:2047-2057. [PMID: 32382991 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06701-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Bacteria belonging to the genus Rickettsia are known as causative agents of vector-borne zoonotic diseases, such as spotted fevers, epidemic typhus and endemic typhus. Different species of ticks, mites and fleas could act as reservoirs and arthropod vectors of different pathogenic Rickettsia species. The aim of this work was to establish active surveillance of Rickettsia spp. in mites, ticks and fleas collected from small mammals (rodents and shrews) in Eastern Slovakia. A total of 964 animal ear biopsies, 871 mites, 667 ticks and 743 fleas were collected from small mammals in the Košice region, Eastern Slovakia. All specimens were identified using specialized taxonomic keys, and were conserved in ethanol until DNA extraction was performed. After DNA extraction, identification of Rickettsia species was performed by PCR-based methods. The total prevalence of rickettsiae from ear biopsies was 4.6% (95% CI, 3.2-5.9), in tested mites 9.3% (95% CI, 7.4-11.2), 17.2% (95% CI, 14.3-20.1) in I. ricinus ticks and 3.5% (95% CI, 2.2-4.8) in fleas. Sequence analysis of the partial gltA gene and Rickettsia helvetica-, Rickettsia slovaca-, Rickettsia raoultii- species specific real-time PCR tests revealed the presence of R. helvetica, R. slovaca, unidentified Rickettsia and rickettsial endosymbionts. These pathogenic and symbiotic species were confirmed in the following ectoparasite species-Laelaps jettmari, Haemogamasus nidi, Laelaps agilis and Eulaelaps stabularis mites, Ixodes ricinus ticks, Ctenophthalmus solutus, C. assimilis and Megabothris turbidus fleas infesting host-Apodemus agrarius, A. flavicollis, Microtus arvalis and Myodes glareolus small mammals. These results confirm the circulation of R. helvetica, R. slovaca, unidentified Rickettsia and rickettsial endosymbionts in mites, ticks and fleas collected on small mammals in the Košice region, Eastern Slovakia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Špitalská
- Institute of Virology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
| | - Jasna Kraljik
- Institute of Zoology Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 845 06, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Dana Miklisová
- Institute of Parasitology Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Eva Boldišová
- Institute of Virology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 845 05, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Olivier A E Sparagano
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Michal Stanko
- Institute of Zoology Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 845 06, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
- Institute of Parasitology Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01, Košice, Slovak Republic
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Lappin MR, Tasker S, Roura X. Role of vector-borne pathogens in the development of fever in cats: 2. Tick- and sandfly-associated diseases. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:41-48. [PMID: 31916874 PMCID: PMC11135722 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x19895942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE There has been increasing identification of vector-borne pathogens in cats presented to veterinary clinics around the world for evaluation of fever and the associated secondary effects, such as signs of depression and loss of appetite. AIM The aim of this article is to summarize the clinically relevant information concerning fever in cats that is associated with pathogens vectored by ticks or sandflies, with an emphasis on presenting clinical abnormalities and optimal diagnostic, treatment and prevention strategies. Fever in cats associated with pathogens known or suspected to be vectored by fleas was discussed within Part 1 of this two-part article series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Lappin
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, 300 West Drake Road, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Séverine Tasker
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
- The Linnaeus Group, Shirley B90 4BN, UK
| | - Xavier Roura
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain
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Exposure of client-owned cats to zoonotic vector-borne pathogens: Clinic-pathological alterations and infection risk analysis. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2019; 66:101344. [PMID: 31437677 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2019.101344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Zoonotic Vector-Borne Diseases (VBDs) represent a relevant health issue for pets and humans. Italy is a major epidemiological hub for feline VBDs, because of suitable conditions for vector biology and disease transmission patterns. The present study investigated the exposure to major zoonotic arthropod-borne pathogens of cats in Italy, along with the evaluation of clinic-pathological features and a risk factor analysis. Out of 167 examined cats, 52 (31.1%) were seropositive for at least one vector-borne pathogen, being positivity for Bartonella henselae the most recorded (18%). Also, various cats seroreacted for Rickettsia felis (10.8%) and Rickettisa typhi (4.2%), Leishmania infantum (3%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (2.4%) and Ehrlichia canis (2.4%). Forty-six cats were tested also for antibodies against D. immitis and two (4.3%) scored positive. The statistical analysis showed a positive association between flea infestation and seropositivity to B. henselae, other than an association between the administration of monthly ectoparasiticide treatments and seronegativity for Rickettsia spp.; seropositive cats were older than negative animals and the lifestyle (i.e. indoor vs outdoor) was not correlated with exposure to vector-borne pathogens. The majority of seropositive cats appeared clinically healthy or showed aspecific clinical signs. Around 80% of seropositive cats had one or more biochemical and/or complete blood count abnormalities. The present data confirm the endemicity of zoonotic feline VBDs in Italy and indicate that awareness on arthropod infections and transmitted pathogens should be kept high and possible implemented, towards the protection of animal and human health with adequate surveillance plans.
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Morganti G, Veronesi F, Stefanetti V, Di Muccio T, Fiorentino E, Diaferia M, Santoro A, Passamonti F, Gramiccia M. Emerging feline vector-borne pathogens in Italy. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:193. [PMID: 31046822 PMCID: PMC6498675 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3409-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The epidemiology of feline vector-borne pathogens (FeVBPs) has been less investigated in cats than in dogs. The present study assessed the prevalence of Rickettsia spp., Babesia spp., Cytauxzoon spp. and Leishmania infantum infections in cat populations living in central Italy, by molecular and serological tools. Results A total of 286 healthy cats were randomly selected from catteries and colonies in central Italy. Peripheral blood and conjunctival swab (CS) samples were collected during surgical procedures for regional neutering projects. Sera were analysed by IFAT to detect anti-Rickettsia felis, R. conorii, Babesia microti and Leishmania IgG antibodies using commercial and home-made antigens. DNA extracted from buffy coats (BCs) was tested for Rickettsia spp., and Piroplasmida species, including Cytauxzoon spp. and Babesia spp. by PCR. Buffy coats and CS samples were assayed by a nested (n)-PCR for Leishmania spp. Sixty-two cats (21.67%) were seropositive to at least one of the tested pathogens. The serological assay revealed 23 (8.04%) and 18 (6.29%) positive cats for R. felis and R. conorii, respectively, with low titers (1/64–1/128). No antibodies against B. microti were detected. Neither Rickettsia nor Piroplasmida DNA were amplified using the specific PCR assays. Thirty-one cats (10.83%) tested positive to anti-Leishmania IgG, with titers ranging from 1:40 to 1:160 and 45 animals (15.73%) tested positive to Leishmania CS n-PCR, whereas none of the animals tested positive to BC n-PCR. Considering the results obtained by IFAT and CS n-PCR, a moderate agreement between the two tests was detected (κ = 0.27). Conclusions The results of the serological and molecular surveys showed a moderate exposure to Leishmania in the investigated cats and highlighted the limited molecular diagnostic value of BC versus CS samples for this pathogen. Conversely no evidence supported the circulation of Cytauxzoon spp. in domestic cats, in contrast with previous detections in European wild cats in the same areas monitored. The low positive titres for R. felis in association with no DNA BC amplification prevent speculation on the exposure of feline populations to this FeVBP due to the cross-reactivity existing within spotted fever group rickettsiosis (SFGR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Morganti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Veronesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Valentina Stefanetti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Trentina Di Muccio
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Unit of Vector-borne Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Fiorentino
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Unit of Vector-borne Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Diaferia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Azzurra Santoro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Passamonti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126, Perugia, Italy
| | - Marina Gramiccia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Unit of Vector-borne Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
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12
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Abstract
"In North America, with the exceptions of Bartonella henselae and Cytauxzoon felis, feline vector-borne diseases (FVBDs) have been minimally studied in domestic cats. Cats can be infected with many of the same vector-borne pathogens that infect dogs. Nonspecific clinical signs linked to FVBDs and low prevalence of certain vector-borne pathogens contribute to a limited awareness of FVBDs in sick cats. As clinicians become informed about FVBDs and as vector-borne disease diagnostics are routinely applied to evaluate sick cats, we will gain a stronger understanding of vector-borne pathogens in cats. This article focuses on recent findings related to FVBDs."
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Qurollo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Research Building, Office 464, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA.
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13
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Hornok S, Grima A, Takács N, Kontschán J. Infestation of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato on cats in Malta. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 9:1120-1124. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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14
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Tomassone L, Portillo A, Nováková M, de Sousa R, Oteo JA. Neglected aspects of tick-borne rickettsioses. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:263. [PMID: 29690900 PMCID: PMC5937841 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2856-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Rickettsioses are among the oldest known infectious diseases. In spite of this, and of the extensive research carried out, many aspects of the biology and epidemiology of tick-borne rickettsiae are far from being completely understood. Their association with arthropod vectors, the importance of vertebrates as reservoirs, the rarity of clinical signs in animals, or the interactions of pathogenic species with rickettsial endosymbionts and with the host intracellular environment, are only some examples. Moreover, new rickettsiae are continuously being discovered. In this review, we focus on the ‘neglected’ aspects of tick-borne rickettsioses and on the gaps in knowledge, which could help to explain why these infections are still emerging and re-emerging threats worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095, Grugliasco (Torino), Italy.
| | - Aránzazu Portillo
- Center of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital San Pedro-CIBIR, C/ Piqueras 98, 26006, Logroño, Spain
| | - Markéta Nováková
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého 1946/1, 612 42, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Rita de Sousa
- National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Av. da Liberdade 5, 2965-575, Aguas de Moura, Portugal
| | - José Antonio Oteo
- Center of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital San Pedro-CIBIR, C/ Piqueras 98, 26006, Logroño, Spain
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15
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Persichetti MF, Pennisi MG, Vullo A, Masucci M, Migliazzo A, Solano-Gallego L. Clinical evaluation of outdoor cats exposed to ectoparasites and associated risk for vector-borne infections in southern Italy. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:136. [PMID: 29554931 PMCID: PMC5859451 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2725-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cats can be carriers of infected arthropods and be infected with several vector-borne pathogens (VBP) but there is limited knowledge about their pathogenic role in cats. RESULTS A cross-sectional controlled study investigated the clinical status and antibody (Bartonella henselae, Rickettsia conorii, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia microti and Leishmania infantum) and/or blood PCR (Mycoplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Rickettsia spp., Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp., piroplasmids, L. infantum, Hepatozoon felis) prevalence in 197 cats. Outdoor cats lacking ectoparasiticide treatment or hosting ectoparasites (study group [SG], n = 134) and indoor cats treated against ectoparasites (control group [CG], n = 63) were enrolled. Clinical data and retroviral co-infections were compared between the two groups. Multivariable analysis tested associations between variables and VBP exposure. Lymphadenia, stomatitis, and various haematological abnormalities were statistically more frequent in SG. Antibodies against R. conorii, B. henselae, A. phagocytophylum, B. microti, E. canis and L. infantum were detected. Bartonella henselae, Bartonella clarridgeiae, Mycoplasma haemofelis, "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum" and "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" DNA were identified. Very high antibody (87.8%) and PCR (40.1%) positivity to at least one pathogen were detected and were significantly higher in SG. Co-infections were confirmed in about one-third of the cats and were more frequent in SG cats. Molecular and overall (antibody and PCR) positivity to Bartonella and antibody positivity to R. conorii were higher in SG. Multivariable analysis found significant associations of Bartonella spp. infection with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) infection and increased globulins, and of Mycoplasma spp. infection with adult age, FIV infection, anaemia, and increased creatinine. CONCLUSIONS A very high prevalence of exposure to zoonotic VBP was found in cats, with Rickettsia and Bartonella infections being most prevalent. Some risk factors were documented namely for Mycoplasma spp. and Bartonella spp. The lifestyle of cats is clinically relevant and requires specific preventative measures to protect their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Flaminia Persichetti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Pennisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy.
| | - Angela Vullo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marisa Masucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonella Migliazzo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
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16
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Kelly PJ, Köster L, Li J, Zhang J, Huang K, Branford GC, Marchi S, Vandenplas M, Wang C. Survey of vector-borne agents in feral cats and first report of Babesia gibsoni in cats on St Kitts, West Indies. BMC Vet Res 2017; 13:331. [PMID: 29132371 PMCID: PMC5683591 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-017-1230-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As there is little data on vector-borne diseases of cats in the Caribbean region and even around the world, we tested feral cats from St Kitts by PCR to detect infections with Babesia, Ehrlichia and spotted fever group Rickettsia (SFGR) and surveyed them for antibodies to Rickettsia rickettsii and Ehrlichia canis. Results Whole blood was collected from apparently healthy feral cats during spay/ neuter campaigns on St Kitts in 2011 (N = 68) and 2014 (N = 52). Sera from the 52 cats from 2014 were used to detect antibodies to Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia rickettsii using indirect fluorescent antibody tests and DNA extracted from whole blood of a total of 119 cats (68 from 2011, and 51 from 2014) was used for PCRs for Babesia, Ehrlichia and Rickettsia. We could not amplify DNA of SFG Rickettsia in any of the samples but found DNA of E. canis in 5% (6/119), Babesia vogeli in 13% (15/119), Babesia gibsoni in 4% (5/119), mixed infections with B. gibsoni and B. vogeli in 3% (3/119), and a poorly characterized Babesia sp. in 1% (1/119). Overall, 10% of the 52 cats we tested by IFA for E. canis were positive while 42% we tested by indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) for R. rickettsii antigens were positive. Conclusions Our study provides the first evidence that cats can be infected with B. gibsoni and also indicates that cats in the Caribbean may be commonly exposed to other vector-borne agents including SFGR, E. canis and B. vogeli. Animal health workers should be alerted to the possibility of clinical infections in their patients while public health workers should be alerted to the possibility that zoonotic SFGR are likely circulating in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick John Kelly
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre, St. Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Liza Köster
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre, St. Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis.,Glasgow University School of Veterinary Medicine, Small Animal Hospital, Garscube Campus, 464 Bearsden Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Jing Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jilei Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ke Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gillian Carmichael Branford
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre, St. Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Silvia Marchi
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre, St. Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Michel Vandenplas
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre, St. Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Chengming Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
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17
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Pennisi MG, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Radford AD, Tasker S, Belák S, Addie DD, Boucraut-Baralon C, Egberink H, Frymus T, Gruffydd-Jones T, Hartmann K, Horzinek MC, Hosie MJ, Lloret A, Lutz H, Marsilio F, Thiry E, Truyen U, Möstl K. Anaplasma, Ehrlichia and Rickettsia species infections in cats: European guidelines from the ABCD on prevention and management. J Feline Med Surg 2017; 19:542-548. [PMID: 28438088 PMCID: PMC10816529 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x17706462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
OVERVIEW Anaplasma species, Ehrlichia species and Rickettsia species are vector-borne pathogens infecting a wide variety of mammals, but causing disease in very few of them. Infection in cats: Anaplasma phagocytophilum is the most important feline pathogen among these rickettsial organisms, and coinfections are possible. Little information is available on the pathogenesis of these agents in cats. Clinical signs are usually reported soon after tick infestation. They are mostly non-specific, consisting of fever, anorexia and lethargy. Joint pain may occur. Infection in humans: Some rickettsial species ( A phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia chaffeensis, Ehrlichia ewingii, Rickettsia conorii, Rickettsia rickettsii, Rickettsia felis, Rickettsia typhi and Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis) are of zoonotic concern. Direct contact with cat saliva should be avoided because of potential contamination by R felis. Infected cats are 'sentinels' of the presence of rickettsial pathogens in ticks and fleas in a given geographical area, and they signal a risk for people exposed to vectors.
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18
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Elfving K, Malmsten J, Dalin AM, Nilsson K. Serologic and Molecular Prevalence of Rickettsia helvetica and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Wild Cervids and Domestic Mammals in the Central Parts of Sweden. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2017; 15:529-34. [PMID: 26378972 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Both Rickettsia helvetica and Anaplasma phagocytophilum are common in Ixodes ricinus ticks in Sweden. Knowledge is limited regarding different animal species' competence to act as reservoirs for these organism. For this reason, blood samples were collected from wild cervids (roe deer, moose) and domestic mammals (horse, cat, dog) in central Sweden, and sera were tested using immunofluorescence assay to detect antibodies against spotted fever rickettsiae using Rickettsia helvetica as antigen. Sera with a titer ≥1:64 were considered as positive, and 23.1% (104/450) of the animals scored positive. The prevalence of seropositivity was 21.5% (23/107) in roe deer, 23.3% (21/90) in moose, 36.5% (23/63) in horses, 22.1% (19/90) in cats, and 17.0% (17/100) in dogs. PCR analysis of 113 spleen samples from moose and sheep from the corresponding areas were all negative for rickettsial DNA. In roe deer, 85% (91/107) also tested seropositive for A. phagocytophilum with a titer cutoff of 1:128. The findings indicate that the surveyed animal species are commonly exposed to rickettsiae and roe deer also to A. phagocytophilum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Elfving
- 1 Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Clinical Bacteriology, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden .,5 Center of Clinical Research , Dalarna, Falun, Sweden
| | - Jonas Malmsten
- 3 Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Reproduction, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences , Uppsala, Sweden .,4 Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anne-Marie Dalin
- 4 Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kenneth Nilsson
- 1 Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Clinical Bacteriology, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden .,2 Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden .,5 Center of Clinical Research , Dalarna, Falun, Sweden
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19
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Diakou A, Di Cesare A, Accettura PM, Barros L, Iorio R, Paoletti B, Frangipane di Regalbono A, Halos L, Beugnet F, Traversa D. Intestinal parasites and vector-borne pathogens in stray and free-roaming cats living in continental and insular Greece. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005335. [PMID: 28141857 PMCID: PMC5302838 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Revised: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This survey investigated the distribution of various intestinal parasites and vector-borne pathogens in stray and free-roaming cats living in four regions of Greece. A total number of one hundred and fifty cats living in three Islands (Crete, Mykonos and Skopelos) and in Athens municipality was established as a realistic aim to be accomplished in the study areas. All cats were examined with different microscopic, serological and molecular assays aiming at evaluating the occurrence of intestinal parasites, and exposure to or presence of vector-borne infections. A total of 135 cats (90%) was positive for one or more parasites and/or pathogens transmitted by ectoparasites. Forty-four (29.3%) cats were positive for one single infection, while 91 (60.7%) for more than one pathogen. A high number of (n. 53) multiple infections caused by feline intestinal and vector-borne agents including at least one zoonotic pathogen was detected. Among them, the most frequently recorded helminths were roundworms (Toxocara cati, 24%) and Dipylidium caninum (2%), while a high number of examined animals (58.8%) had seroreaction for Bartonella spp., followed by Rickettsia spp. (43.2%) and Leishmania infantum (6.1%). DNA-based assays revealed the zoonotic arthropod-borne organisms Bartonella henselae, Bartonella clarridgeiae, Rickettsia spp., and L. infantum. These results show that free-ranging cats living in areas of Greece under examination may be exposed to a plethora of internal parasites and vector-borne pathogens, some of them potentially able to infect humans. Therefore, epidemiological vigilance and appropriate control measures are crucial for the prevention and control of these infections and to minimize the risk of infection for people. Several intestinal parasites and vector-borne pathogens, some of that with zoonotic potential, often occur in free-ranging cat populations. Stray cats are abundant in touristic areas of Greece, where they live in free colonies. With the aim to enhance our knowledge on the hazard posed by cats living in Greek touristic spots, the present research has evaluated the presence of intestinal parasites and vector-borne pathogens in stray cats living in selected areas. The study demonstrates that these pathogens are present in Greece and that appropriate control measures should be implemented to minimize the risk for cats and people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Angela Di Cesare
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
| | - Paolo Matteo Accettura
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
| | - Luciano Barros
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinaria MSV/UFF, Rua Vital Brasil Filho, 64 Icaraí, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Raffaella Iorio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
| | - Barbara Paoletti
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Donato Traversa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio snc., Teramo, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Persichetti MF, Solano-Gallego L, Serrano L, Altet L, Reale S, Masucci M, Pennisi MG. Detection of vector-borne pathogens in cats and their ectoparasites in southern Italy. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:247. [PMID: 27160725 PMCID: PMC4862052 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1534-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vector-borne pathogens are the subject of several investigations due to the zoonotic concern of some of them. However, limited data are available about the simultaneous presence of these pathogens in cats and their ectoparasites. The aim of the present study was to define the species of ectoparasites found on cats as well as to investigate vector-borne pathogens in cats and their ectoparasites in southern Italy. METHODS Blood from 42 cats and fleas or flea pools (n = 28) and ticks (n = 73) collected from them were investigated by quantitative PCR for the detection of vector-borne pathogens. Feline serum samples were tested by IFAT to detect IgG antibodies against Leishmania infantum, Bartonella henselae, Rickettsia conorii, Rickettsia felis, Rickettsia typhi, Babesia microti, Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum antigens. RESULTS Only one flea species (Ctenocephalides felis) and four tick species belonging to the genera Rhipicephalus and Ixodes were identified on cats from southern Italy. Molecular evidence of Bartonella spp., Rickettsia spp., hemoplasmas, Babesia vogeli and L. infantum was found in ectoparasites (fleas and/or ticks) while DNA from Hepatozoon felis and Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp. was not detected. Likewise, DNAs from Bartonella, hemoplasma and Leishmania were the only pathogens amplified from feline blood samples. Cats had also antibodies against all the investigated pathogens with the exception of Rickettsia typhi. Agreement between serological and molecular results in individual cats and their ectoparasites was not found. The only exception was for Bartonella with a fair to moderate agreement between individual cats and their ectoparasites. Bartonella clarridgeiae was the species most frequently found in cats and their fleas followed by B. henselae. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, cats harboring ticks and fleas are frequently exposed to vector-borne pathogens. Furthermore, ticks and fleas harbored by cats frequently carry pathogens of zoonotic concern therefore appropriate feline ectoparasiticide preventative treatments should be used in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Flaminia Persichetti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia Adelmo Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Laia Solano-Gallego
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animal, Facultat de Veterinària. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Lorena Serrano
- Vetgenomics, Edifici Eureka, PRUAB, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Altet
- Vetgenomics, Edifici Eureka, PRUAB, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Stefano Reale
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia Adelmo Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marisa Masucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria-Grazia Pennisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
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21
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Ahmed R, Paul SK, Hossain MA, Ahmed S, Mahmud MC, Nasreen SA, Ferdouse F, Sharmi RH, Ahamed F, Ghosh S, Urushibara N, Aung MS, Kobayashi N. Molecular Detection ofRickettsia felisin Humans, Cats, and Cat Fleas in Bangladesh, 2013–2014. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2016; 16:356-8. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rajib Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
- Department of Biochemistry, Manikganj Medical College, Manikganj, Bangladesh
| | - Shyamal Kumar Paul
- Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | | | - Salma Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Faria Ferdouse
- Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | - Rumana Hasan Sharmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Manikganj Medical College, Manikganj, Bangladesh
| | - Farid Ahamed
- Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | - Souvik Ghosh
- Department of Hygiene, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St. Kitts, West Indies
| | - Noriko Urushibara
- Department of Hygiene, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Meiji Soe Aung
- Department of Hygiene, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Nobumichi Kobayashi
- Department of Hygiene, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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Abstract
Rickettsia felis is an emerging insect-borne rickettsial pathogen and the causative agent of flea-borne spotted fever. First described as a human pathogen from the USA in 1991, R. felis is now identified throughout the world and considered a common cause of fever in Africa. The cosmopolitan distribution of this pathogen is credited to the equally widespread occurrence of cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis), the primary vector and reservoir of R. felis. Although R. felis is a relatively new member of the pathogenic Rickettsia, limited knowledge of basic R. felis biology continues to hinder research progression of this unique bacterium. This is a comprehensive review examining what is known and unknown relative to R. felis transmission biology, epidemiology of the disease, and genetics, with an insight into areas of needed investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa D. Brown
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Skip Bertman Drive, SVM-3213, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 USA
| | - Kevin R. Macaluso
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Skip Bertman Drive, SVM-3213, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 USA
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23
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Bessas A, Leulmi H, Bitam I, Zaidi S, Ait-Oudhia K, Raoult D, Parola P. Molecular evidence of vector-borne pathogens in dogs and cats and their ectoparasites in Algiers, Algeria. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 45:23-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2016.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Halos L, Fourie JJ, Fankhauser B, Beugnet F. Knock-down and speed of kill of a combination of fipronil and permethrin for the prevention of Ctenocephalides felis flea infestation in dogs. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:57. [PMID: 26830931 PMCID: PMC4736277 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1345-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A topical combination of fipronil + permethrin (Frontline Tri-Act/Frontect, Merial) has recently been developed to control fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, sandflies and stable flies on dogs. Two studies were conducted to assess its speed of kill and knock-down effect on Ctenocephalides felis fleas. The combination was compared to either fipronil alone or to a combination of permethrin, dinotefuran, and pyriproxyfen, METHODS In each study, 18 dogs were randomly allocated to one of three groups: (Group 1: untreated dog; Group 2: treated once on D0 with the combination of fipronil and permethrin; Group 3: treated once on D0 either with fipronil alone (study 1) or with a combination of permethrin, dinetofuran and pyriproxyfen (study 2)). Each dog was infested with 100 unfed adult C. felis fleas on Days 2 (study 2), 7, 14, 21 and 28. Fleas were collected from dogs at 1 h and 12 h post- infestations (PI) (study 1) or at 2 h and 6 h PI (study 2) to assess efficacy and from collection pans underneath cages 1 h (study 1) or 5 min (study 2) PI to assess knock-down effect. RESULTS All treated dogs had significantly (p ≤ 0.01) lower flea counts than untreated dogs at every time point in both studies. For a whole month, a significant knock-down effect against infesting fleas is obtained in five minutes PI with the combination of permethrin and fipronil. Complete efficacy (>95%) was achieved in 1 h (study 1) or 2 h (study 2) PI for 14 days and by 6 h PI for all challenges conducted throughout the month. Efficacy remains >85% at 2 h PI for the whole month. A significantly higher efficacy of the fipronil + permethrin combination compared to other treatments was demonstrated at the earliest time points for the month (1 h knock-down effect and insecticidal efficacy compared to fipronil alone; 5 min knock-down effect compared to the combination of permethrin + dinetofuran + pyriproxyfen). CONCLUSIONS The rapid flea knock-down effect and speed of kill demonstrated by the spot on combination of fipronil + permethrin provide a reliable strategy against flea infestations in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lénaïg Halos
- Merial S.A.S., 29 Av Tony Garnier, 69007, Lyon, France.
| | - Josephus J Fourie
- ClinVet International (Pty) Ltd, P.O. Box 11186, Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, Republic of South Africa.
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Segura F, Pons I, Sanfeliu I, Nogueras MM. Shell-vial culture, coupled with real-time PCR, applied to Rickettsia conorii and Rickettsia massiliae-Bar29 detection, improving the diagnosis of the Mediterranean spotted fever. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2016; 7:457-61. [PMID: 26830273 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Revised: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Rickettsia conorii and Rickettsia massiliae-Bar29 are related to Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF). They are intracellular microorganisms. The Shell-vial culture assay (SV) improved Rickettsia culture but it still has some limitations: blood usually contains low amount of microorganisms and the samples that contain the highest amount of them are non-sterile. The objectives of this study were to optimize SV culture conditions and monitoring methods and to establish antibiotic concentrations useful for non-sterile samples. 12 SVs were inoculated with each microorganism, incubated at different temperatures and monitored by classical methods and real-time PCR. R. conorii was detected by all methods at all temperatures since 7th day of incubation. R. massiliae-Bar29 was firstly observed at 28°C. Real-time PCR allowed to detected it 2-7 days earlier (depend on temperature) than classical methods. Antibiotics concentration needed for the isolation of these Rickettsia species from non-sterile samples was determined inoculating SV with R. conorii, R. massiliae-Bar29, biopsy or tick, incubating them with different dilutions of antibiotics and monitoring them weekly. To sum up, if a MSF diagnosis is suspected, SV should be incubated at both 28°C and 32°C for 1-3 weeks and monitored by a sensitive real-time PCR. If the sample is non-sterile the panel of antibiotics tested can be added.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferran Segura
- Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí - Institut Universitari Parc Taulí - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Parc Taulí 1, Sabadell, Barcelona, 08208, Spain.
| | - Immaculada Pons
- Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí - Institut Universitari Parc Taulí - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Parc Taulí 1, Sabadell, Barcelona, 08208, Spain.
| | - Isabel Sanfeliu
- Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí - Institut Universitari Parc Taulí - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Parc Taulí 1, Sabadell, Barcelona, 08208, Spain.
| | - María-Mercedes Nogueras
- Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí - Institut Universitari Parc Taulí - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Parc Taulí 1, Sabadell, Barcelona, 08208, Spain.
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Eremeeva ME, Dasch GA. Challenges posed by tick-borne rickettsiae: eco-epidemiology and public health implications. Front Public Health 2015; 3:55. [PMID: 25954738 PMCID: PMC4404743 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2015.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rickettsiae are obligately intracellular bacteria that are transmitted to vertebrates by a variety of arthropod vectors, primarily by fleas and ticks. Once transmitted or experimentally inoculated into susceptible mammals, some rickettsiae may cause febrile illness of different morbidity and mortality, and which can manifest with different types of exhanthems in humans. However, most rickettsiae circulate in diverse sylvatic or peridomestic reservoirs without having obvious impacts on their vertebrate hosts or affecting humans. We have analyzed the key features of tick-borne maintenance of rickettsiae, which may provide a deeper basis for understanding those complex invertebrate interactions and strategies that have permitted survival and circulation of divergent rickettsiae in nature. Rickettsiae are found in association with a wide range of hard and soft ticks, which feed on very different species of large and small animals. Maintenance of rickettsiae in these vector systems is driven by both vertical and horizontal transmission strategies, but some species of Rickettsia are also known to cause detrimental effects on their arthropod vectors. Contrary to common belief, the role of vertebrate animal hosts in maintenance of rickettsiae is very incompletely understood. Some clearly play only the essential role of providing a blood meal to the tick while other hosts may supply crucial supplemental functions for effective agent transmission by the vectors. This review summarizes the importance of some recent findings with known and new vectors that afford an improved understanding of the eco-epidemiology of rickettsiae; the public health implications of that information for rickettsial diseases are also described. Special attention is paid to the co-circulation of different species and genotypes of rickettsiae within the same endemic areas and how these observations may influence, correctly or incorrectly, trends, and conclusions drawn from the surveillance of rickettsial diseases in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina E Eremeeva
- Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University , Statesboro, GA , USA
| | - Gregory A Dasch
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Atlanta, GA , USA
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Wächter M, Wölfel S, Pfeffer M, Dobler G, Kohn B, Moritz A, Pachnicke S, Silaghi C. Serological differentiation of antibodies against Rickettsia helvetica, R. raoultii, R. slovaca, R. monacensis and R. felis in dogs from Germany by a micro-immunofluorescent antibody test. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:126. [PMID: 25889200 PMCID: PMC4369902 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0745-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Spotted Fever Group (SFG) Rickettsiae can cause febrile diseases with or without rash in humans worldwide. In Germany only limited data are available about their medical significance. Serological screening tests for antibodies against rickettsiae usually only distinguish between SFG and Typhus Group (TG) Rickettsiae due to the strong cross reactivities within the groups. Seroprevalence rates in dogs, as possible sentinels for tick-borne diseases, could serve as an indicator for the distribution of different Rickettsia species. Methods In this study, a micro-immunofluorescence assay (micro-IFA) was established for detection and differentiation of antibodies against five Rickettsia species in dogs (R. helvetica, R. raoultii, R. slovaca, R. monacensis and R. felis). Dogs that never left Germany (n = 605) previously investigated with an SFG-ELISA were included in this study and screened at a 1:128 dilution. Endpoint titres of fifty randomly selected seropositive samples of each of the five investigated regions in Germany were determined in order to allow a differentiation of the causative Rickettsia species. Sensitivity and specificity of the micro-IFA were compared with ELISA results of the previous study. Results A total of 93.9% of the dogs were positive for antibodies of the SFG Rickettsiae at the screening titer of 1:128. Differentiation of SFG Rickettsiae with the micro-IFA was possible in 70.4%, but in 29.6% of the cases the detected antibodies were not differentiable. Considering a clear differentiation by a twofold titre difference between observed reactions, the seroprevalence rates were 66.0% for R. helvetica, 2.8% for R. raoultii, 1.6% for R. slovaca, but no serological reaction could be clearly attributed to R. monacensis or R. felis. No statistically significant regional differences were found for R. helvetica, R. slovaca and R. raoultii comparing the five regions of Germany. Comparison of micro-IFA with ELISA revealed a sensitivity of 82.0% and a specificity of 83.8% for the Rickettsia SFG ELISA. Conclusions The micro-IFA is a useful serological tool to differentiate antibodies against different Rickettsia species in dogs. Seroprevalence rates in dogs correspond to the prevalence rates and distribution of Rickettsia-carrying tick species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Wächter
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Leopoldstrasse 5, 80802, Munich, Germany.
| | - Silke Wölfel
- Department of Virology and Rickettsiology, Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Neuherbergstrasse 11, 80937, Munich, Germany. .,DZIF German Centre for Infection Research-Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1, 80539, Munich, Germany.
| | - Martin Pfeffer
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 1, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Gerhard Dobler
- Department of Virology and Rickettsiology, Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Neuherbergstrasse 11, 80937, Munich, Germany. .,DZIF German Centre for Infection Research-Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1, 80539, Munich, Germany.
| | - Barbara Kohn
- Small Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Oertzenweg 19b, 14163, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Andreas Moritz
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Clinical Pathology and Clinical Pathophysiology, Justus-Liebig-University, Frankfurterstrasse 126, 35392, Gießen, Germany.
| | | | - Cornelia Silaghi
- Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Leopoldstrasse 5, 80802, Munich, Germany. .,Current affiliation: National Centre for Vector Entomology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
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