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Benn JS, Orange JP, Gomez JP, Dinh ETN, McGregor BL, Blosser EM, Burkett-Cadena ND, Wisely SM, Blackburn JK. Culicoides Midge Abundance across Years: Modeling Inter-Annual Variation for an Avian Feeder and a Candidate Vector of Hemorrhagic Diseases in Farmed Wildlife. Viruses 2024; 16:766. [PMID: 38793647 PMCID: PMC11125994 DOI: 10.3390/v16050766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) and bluetongue virus (BTV) are orbiviruses that cause hemorrhagic disease (HD) with significant economic and population health impacts on domestic livestock and wildlife. In the United States, white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are particularly susceptible to these viruses and are a frequent blood meal host for various species of Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) that transmit orbiviruses. The species of Culicoides that transmit EHDV and BTV vary between regions, and larval habitats can differ widely between vector species. Understanding how midges are distributed across landscapes can inform HD virus transmission risk on a local scale, allowing for improved animal management plans to avoid suspected high-risk areas or target these areas for insecticide control. (2) Methods: We used occupancy modeling to estimate the abundance of gravid (egg-laden) and parous (most likely to transmit the virus) females of two putative vector species, C. stellifer and C. venustus, and one species, C. haematopotus, that was not considered a putative vector. We developed a universal model to determine habitat preferences, then mapped a predicted weekly midge abundance during the HD transmission seasons in 2015 (July-October) and 2016 (May-October) in Florida. (3) Results: We found differences in habitat preferences and spatial distribution between the parous and gravid states for C. haematopotus and C. stellifer. Gravid midges preferred areas close to water on the border of well and poorly drained soil. They also preferred mixed bottomland hardwood habitats, whereas parous midges appeared less selective of habitat. (4) Conclusions: If C. stellifer is confirmed as an EHDV vector in this region, the distinct spatial and abundance patterns between species and physiological states suggest that the HD risk is non-random across the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie S. Benn
- Spatial Epidemiology & Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of Florida, 3141 Turlington Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (J.S.B.); (J.P.O.)
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Road, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Jeremy P. Orange
- Spatial Epidemiology & Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of Florida, 3141 Turlington Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (J.S.B.); (J.P.O.)
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Road, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Juan Pablo Gomez
- Departamento de Química y Biología, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia;
| | - Emily T. N. Dinh
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, 333 S Grand Ave, Lansing, MI 48933, USA;
| | - Bethany L. McGregor
- USDA-ARS-Center for Grain and Animal Health Research-Arthropod-Borne Animal Diseases Research Unit, 1515 College Ave, Manhatten, KS 66506, USA;
| | - Erik M. Blosser
- Sutter-Yuba Mosquito & Vector Control District, 701 Bogue Road, Yuba City, CA 95991, USA;
| | - Nathan D. Burkett-Cadena
- Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, University of Florida, 200 9th St SE, Vero Beach, FL 32962, USA;
| | - Samantha M. Wisely
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, 110 Newins-Ziegler Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA;
| | - Jason K. Blackburn
- Spatial Epidemiology & Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of Florida, 3141 Turlington Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (J.S.B.); (J.P.O.)
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Road, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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Caixeta EA, Pinheiro MA, Lucchesi VS, Oliveira AGG, Galinari GCF, Tinoco HP, Coelho CM, Lobato ZIP. The Study of Bluetongue Virus (BTV) and Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (EHDV) Circulation and Vectors at the Municipal Parks and Zoobotanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil (FPMZB-BH). Viruses 2024; 16:293. [PMID: 38400068 PMCID: PMC10892844 DOI: 10.3390/v16020293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Bluetongue Virus (BTV) and Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (EHDV) are Orbiviruses primarily transmitted by their biological vector, Culicoides spp. Latreille, 1809 (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae). These viruses can infect a diverse range of vertebrate hosts, leading to disease outbreaks in domestic and wild ruminants worldwide. This study, conducted at the Belo Horizonte Municipal Parks and Zoobotany Foundation (FPMZB-BH), Minas Gerais, Brazil, focused on Orbivirus and its vectors. Collections of Culicoides spp. were carried out at the FPMZB-BH from 9 December 2021 to 18 November 2022. A higher prevalence of these insects was observed during the summer months, especially in February. Factors such as elevated temperatures, high humidity, fecal accumulation, and proximity to large animals, like camels and elephants, were associated with increased Culicoides capture. Among the identified Culicoides spp. species, Culicoides insignis Lutz, 1913, constituted 75%, and Culicoides pusillus Lutz, 1913, 6% of the collected midges, both described as competent vectors for Orbivirus transmission. Additionally, a previously unreported species in Minas Gerais, Culicoides debilipalpis Lutz, 1913, was identified, also suspected of being a transmitter of these Orbiviruses. The feeding preferences of some Culicoides species were analyzed, revealing that C. insignis feeds on deer, Red deer (Cervus elaphus) and European fallow deer (Dama dama). Different Culicoides spp. were also identified feeding on humans, raising concerns about the potential transmission of arboviruses at the site. In parallel, 72 serum samples from 14 susceptible species, including various Cervids, collected between 2012 and 2022 from the FPMZB-BH serum bank, underwent Agar Gel Immunodiffusion (AGID) testing for BTV and EHDV. The results showed 75% seropositivity for BTV and 19% for EHDV. Post-testing analysis revealed variations in antibody presence against BTV in a tapir and a fallow deer and against EHDV in a gemsbok across different years. These studies confirm the presence of BTV and EHDV vectors, along with potential virus circulation in the zoo. Consequently, implementing control measures is essential to prevent susceptible species from becoming infected and developing clinical diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Alves Caixeta
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (DMVP), Veterinary School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil; (E.A.C.); (M.A.P.); (V.S.L.); (A.G.G.O.); (G.C.F.G.)
| | - Mariana Andrioli Pinheiro
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (DMVP), Veterinary School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil; (E.A.C.); (M.A.P.); (V.S.L.); (A.G.G.O.); (G.C.F.G.)
| | - Victoria Souza Lucchesi
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (DMVP), Veterinary School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil; (E.A.C.); (M.A.P.); (V.S.L.); (A.G.G.O.); (G.C.F.G.)
| | - Anna Gabriella Guimarães Oliveira
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (DMVP), Veterinary School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil; (E.A.C.); (M.A.P.); (V.S.L.); (A.G.G.O.); (G.C.F.G.)
| | - Grazielle Cossenzo Florentino Galinari
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (DMVP), Veterinary School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil; (E.A.C.); (M.A.P.); (V.S.L.); (A.G.G.O.); (G.C.F.G.)
| | - Herlandes Penha Tinoco
- Belo Horizonte Municipal Parks and Zoobotany Foundation (FPMZB-BH), Belo Horizonte 31365-450, Minas Gerais, Brazil; (H.P.T.); (C.M.C.)
| | - Carlyle Mendes Coelho
- Belo Horizonte Municipal Parks and Zoobotany Foundation (FPMZB-BH), Belo Horizonte 31365-450, Minas Gerais, Brazil; (H.P.T.); (C.M.C.)
| | - Zélia Inês Portela Lobato
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (DMVP), Veterinary School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil; (E.A.C.); (M.A.P.); (V.S.L.); (A.G.G.O.); (G.C.F.G.)
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Jiménez-Cabello L, Utrilla-Trigo S, Lorenzo G, Ortego J, Calvo-Pinilla E. Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Virus: Current Knowledge and Emerging Perspectives. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1339. [PMID: 37317313 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) of ruminants is a viral pathology that has significant welfare, social, and economic implications. The causative agent, epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV), belongs to the Orbivirus genus and leads to significant regional disease outbreaks among livestock and wildlife in North America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, causing significant morbidity and mortality. During the past decade, this viral disease has become a real threat for countries of the Mediterranean basin, with the recent occurrence of several important outbreaks in livestock. Moreover, the European Union registered the first cases of EHDV ever detected within its territory. Competent vectors involved in viral transmission, Culicoides midges, are expanding its distribution, conceivably due to global climate change. Therefore, livestock and wild ruminants around the globe are at risk for this serious disease. This review provides an overview of current knowledge about EHDV, including changes of distribution and virulence, an examination of different animal models of disease, and a discussion about potential treatments to control the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Jiménez-Cabello
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA-INIA/CSIC), Valdeolmos, 28130 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Utrilla-Trigo
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA-INIA/CSIC), Valdeolmos, 28130 Madrid, Spain
| | - Gema Lorenzo
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA-INIA/CSIC), Valdeolmos, 28130 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Ortego
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA-INIA/CSIC), Valdeolmos, 28130 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Calvo-Pinilla
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA-INIA/CSIC), Valdeolmos, 28130 Madrid, Spain
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Development of a Competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Based on Purified Recombinant Viral Protein 7 for Serological Diagnosis of Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease in Camels. J Trop Med 2022; 2022:5210771. [PMID: 35356489 PMCID: PMC8959998 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5210771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) is a member of the Orbivirus genus in the Reoviridae family, and it is the etiological agent of an arthropod-transmitted disease that affects domestic and wild ruminants. Due to its significant economic impact, many attempts have been done in order to develop diagnostic immunoassays mainly based on the use of the viral protein 7 (VP7), that is, the immunodominant serogroup-specific antigen. In this work, a recombinant VP7 (recVP7) of EHDV serotype 2 was produced in a baculovirus system, and after purification using ion metal affinity chromatography, we obtained a high yield of recombinant protein characterized by a high degree of purity. We used the purified recVP7 as reagent to develop a competitive enzyme-linked immunoassay (c-ELISA), and we tested the presence of EHDV antibodies in 185 dromedary camel serum samples. The c-ELISA showed good performance parameters in recognising positive sera of naturally EHDV-infected dromedary camels; in particular, our developed test reached 85.7% of sensitivity, 98.1% of specificity, 93% of accuracy, and a high agreement value with results obtained by the commercial ELISA kit (Cohen's kappa value of 0.85) that we adopted as the reference method. This c-ELISA could be a useful screening test to monitor the virus spread in camels that are sentinel animals for endemic areas of disease.
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Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Virus and Bluetongue Virus Seroprevalence in Wild White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in Florida, USA. J Wildl Dis 2021; 56:928-932. [PMID: 32544030 DOI: 10.7589/2019-10-263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A wild population of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) was surveyed for evidence of past or current epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) and current bluetongue virus (BTV) infections. We collected 121 blood samples from hunter-harvested or live-captured deer from two state-managed properties in northwest Florida, US; live captures were in support of a movement ecology study. Blood samples were tested for antibodies against titers to three EHDV serotypes (EHDV-1, EHDV-2, and EHDV-6), and multiplex quantitative reverse transcription PCR was used to identify the presence of EHDV or BTV viral RNA. Of these samples, 81% (98/121) tested seropositive for at least one of three serotypes of EHDV. Of those testing seropositive, 33% (40/121) contained antibodies for two serotypes, and 19% (24/121) contained antibodies for all three EHDV serotypes. Furthermore, results of generalized linear models indicated that the probability of infection by EHDV serotypes 1 and 6 increased with an animal's age. Our findings indicate that seroprevalence may be high for multiple serotypes in regions where these orbiviruses are endemic. These results could prove useful for managing disease risk in naïve deer populations.
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EVIDENCE OF EPIZOOTIC HEMORRHAGIC DISEASE VIRUS AND BLUETONGUE VIRUS EXPOSURE IN NONNATIVE RUMINANT SPECIES IN NORTHERN FLORIDA. J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 51:745-751. [PMID: 33480554 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) and bluetongue virus (BTV) are vector-borne viruses of ruminants nearly worldwide. They can affect white-tailed deer (WTD; Odocoileus virginianus), the ranching industry, and nonindigenous hoof stock species managed for conservation. One potential risk factor for ranched WTD is commingling with nonindigenous species on high-fenced properties. Nonindigenous species provide novel viewing and hunting opportunities; however, their presence may create disease hazards. Furthermore, animals within conservation properties may be at a risk from commingling exotics and adjacent wild WTD. Currently, knowledge about EHDV and BTV seroprevalence and transmission is limited in nonindigenous populations in the southeastern United States. The authors conducted a serological survey of 10 Bovidae and 5 Cervidae species residing within two properties in northern Florida. The first site was a conservation property breeding threatened nonindigenous species for conservation. The second property was a private high-fenced game preserve managing WTD and nonindigenous species for breeding, sale, and harvest. Blood samples were tested for titers to three EHDV serotypes (1, 2, and 6) and active circulating viral EHDV and BTV. The private ranch had evidence of EHDV or BTV in one of three (33.3%) Bovidae species and four of five (80%) Cervidae species sampled. At the conservation property, evidence of EHDV infection was found in four of seven (57.1%) Bovidae and one of one (100%) Cervidae species sampled. The presence of antibodies in many nonindigenous species sampled might indicate these species are potential viral hosts and may be a risk to ranched WTD and other species within the same property. Nonindigenous species within the private ranch and conservation properties are at risk of contracting EHDV and BTV, and herd managers should reduce vector-host interactions and consider increased biosecurity measures when translocating animals.
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McGregor BL, Stenn T, Sayler KA, Blosser EM, Blackburn JK, Wisely SM, Burkett-Cadena ND. Host use patterns of Culicoides spp. biting midges at a big game preserve in Florida, U.S.A., and implications for the transmission of orbiviruses. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2019; 33:110-120. [PMID: 30063255 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Culicoides spp. biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are vectors of pathogens that have a significant economic impact on the livestock industry. White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), a farmed species in the U.S.A., are susceptible to two Culicoides spp. borne orbiviruses: bluetongue virus and epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus. Elucidating host-vector interactions is an integral step in studying disease transmission. This study investigated the host range of Culicoides spp. present on a big game preserve in Florida on which a variety of Cervidae and Bovidae freely roam. Culicoides were captured with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) miniature light traps run twice weekly on the preserve for 18 consecutive months (July 2015-December 2016). Host preference was quantified through forage ratios, based upon PCR-based bloodmeal analysis of Culicoides spp. and overall animal relative abundance on the preserve. Culicoides stellifer preferentially fed on Cervus spp. and fallow deer (Dama dama) and displayed a relative avoidance of Bovidae and white-tailed deer. Culicoides debilipalpis preferred white-tailed deer and avoided all Bovidae. Culicoides pallidicornis and Culicoides biguttatus showed preferences for white-tailed deer and Père David's deer (Elaphurus davidianus), respectively. These results add to current knowledge of preferred hosts of Florida Culicoides spp. and have implications for the spread of orbiviruses. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- B L McGregor
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, University of Florida, Vero Beach, FL, U.S.A
| | - T Stenn
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, University of Florida, Vero Beach, FL, U.S.A
| | - K A Sayler
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
| | - E M Blosser
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, University of Florida, Vero Beach, FL, U.S.A
| | - J K Blackburn
- Department of Geography, Spatial Epidemiology and Ecology Research Laboratory, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
| | - S M Wisely
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
| | - N D Burkett-Cadena
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, University of Florida, Vero Beach, FL, U.S.A
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Merino J, Cruz NIDL, Galvan G, León AD, Burnes J. First molecular and serological detection of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease virus in white tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus ) from Tamaulipas, Mexico. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-9987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Epizootic hemorrhagic disease viruses (EHDV) are dsRNA arboviruses transmitted by biting midges of the genus Culicoides that cause disease in domestic and wild ruminants. Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) is considered the most important infectious disease of white tailed deer (WTD) in North America, some studies in Northeast Mexico reported EHDV-seropositive WTD and EHDV-infected Culicoides vectors. The increasing population of WTD that share habitat with livestock in Northeast México highlights the importance of EHD for the livestock industry in the transboundary region with the U.S. One hundred and twenty two samples from WTD in Tamaulipas state, Mexico were tested by ELISA and RT-PCR for EHDV antibodies and nucleic acid, respectively. Twelve animals were seropositive to ELISA and eleven animals were positive by RT-PCR. This is the first report of EHDV nucleic acid detection in WTD from Mexico. It is hypothesized that applying the transboundary disease approach to interdisciplinary research will help fill knowledge gaps, which could help develop countermeasures to mitigate the threat of EHDV infection in wildlife and livestock along the U.S.-Mexico border.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - G. Galvan
- Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Mexico
| | | | - J. Burnes
- Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Mexico
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Krzysiak MK, Iwaniak W, Kęsik-Maliszewska J, Olech W, Larska M. Serological Study of Exposure to Selected Arthropod-Borne Pathogens in European Bison (Bison bonasus) in Poland. Transbound Emerg Dis 2016; 64:1411-1423. [DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M. K. Krzysiak
- European Bison Breeding Centre; Białowieża National Park; Białowieża Poland
| | - W. Iwaniak
- Department of Microbiology; National Veterinary Research Institute; Puławy Poland
| | | | - W. Olech
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding; Warsaw University of Life Sciences; Warsaw Poland
| | - M. Larska
- Department of Virology; National Veterinary Research Institute; Puławy Poland
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Testicular lesions and antler abnormalities in Colorado, USA mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus): a possible role for epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus. J Wildl Dis 2015; 51:166-76. [PMID: 25375947 DOI: 10.7589/2014-03-067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Antler abnormalities of deer and other cervids often result from testicular lesions and decreased levels of testosterone, inhibiting normal cycles of antler growth. Affected males have antlers with retained velvet, numerous short, misshapen points ("cactus bucks"), and failure to shed these abnormal antlers annually. In Colorado, US, we observed a high occurrence of "cactus bucks" in mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) populations after management efforts to increase the number of mature male deer in the state. Affected males consistently had antibody to epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus serotype 2 (EHDV-2), and examination of the testes of these animals demonstrated nonspecific end-stage lesions of chronic inflammation, fibrosis, and mineralization. To examine more acute stages of testicular lesions, and to screen for EHDV specifically within the testes, we sampled 16 male mule deer from affected herds, but with essentially normal antlers (n = 14) or retained velvet only (n = 2). Testicular and epididymal lesions identified from these samples included necrotizing vasculitis (n = 2), hemorrhage (n = 6), edema (n = 2), seminiferous tubular necrosis (n = 5), orchitis (n = 5), epididymitis (n = 10), hypospermia (n = 6), and end-stage lesions of seminiferous tubular loss (n = 2), fibrosis (n = 2), and mineralization (n = 2). Each of the 16 cases was blindly scored on the basis of number of histologic lesions, with a median score of two. Five of seven (71%) testes that were PCR positive for EHDV had lesion scores above the median, whereas none of the nine (0%) EHDV PCR-negative testes had lesion scores above the median, suggesting an association between testicular lesions and detection of EHDV RNA in the testes (P = 0.003). Although the role of EHDV infection remains unconfirmed, the association between testicular and epididymal lesions and presence of EHDV RNA in the affected tissues suggests that cactus buck antlers may be a sequela of EHDV infection.
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Characterization of epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus from a bovine with clinical disease with high nucleotide sequence identity to white-tailed deer isolates. Arch Virol 2014; 159:2737-40. [PMID: 24852073 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-014-2120-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) was isolated from a pregnant cow in Indiana, USA, exhibiting excessive salivation, pyrexia and abortion. VP2, VP5, and VP7 sequences of the isolated bovine EHDV showed 97.7, 97.4, and 97.9 % identity to a serotype 2 reference virus. Bovine EHDV was closely related (>99.9 %) to white tailed deer (WTD) EHDV collected from Iowa in 2013 and showed less than 2.1 % divergence from EHDV collected from WTD across the USA in 2013. The high degree of sequence identity between bovine and WTD EHDV isolates demonstrates that similar viruses concurrently circulate in both species and suggests possible further incursions into bovines.
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Savini G, Afonso A, Mellor P, Aradaib I, Yadin H, Sanaa M, Wilson W, Monaco F, Domingo M. Epizootic heamorragic disease. Res Vet Sci 2011; 91:1-17. [PMID: 21665237 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2011.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2011] [Revised: 04/29/2011] [Accepted: 05/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Epizootic haemorrhagic disease (EHD) is an infectious non-contagious viral disease transmitted by insects of the genus Culicoides which affects wild and domestic ruminants. The causative agent, the epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV), belongs to the family Reoviridae, genus Orbivirus and shares many morphological and structural characteristics with the other members of the genus such as bluetongue, African horse sickness and equine encephalosis viruses. In recent years EHD outbreaks have been reported in countries bordering the European Union. They caused disease in cattle and severe repercussion on the livestock industry of the affected countries. In the light of recent European bluetongue epizootic these events pose an increasing threat to the European Union. This review includes the most recent information regarding the virus and the disease as well as tools for its diagnosis and control. It is our conviction that more attention should be drawn to both EHDV and the disease itself in order to fulfil all these gaps and not to be unprepared in case future possible incursions.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Savini
- Istituto G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy.
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