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Ca Ferreira L, de Fa Ferreira Filho L, V Cosate MR, Sakamoto T. Genetic structure and diversity of the rfb locus of pathogenic species of the genus Leptospira. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302478. [PMID: 38514188 PMCID: PMC10958091 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is caused by pathogenic strains of the genus Leptospira and is considered the most widespread zoonotic bacterial disease. The genus is characterized by the large number of serology variants, which challenges developing effective serotyping methods and vaccines with a broad spectrum. Because knowledge on the genetic basis of the serological diversity among leptospires is still limited, we aimed to explore the genetic structure and patterns of the rfb locus, which is involved in the biosynthesis of lipopolysaccharides, the major surface antigen that defines the serovar in leptospires. Here, we used genomic data of 722 pathogenic samples and compared the gene composition of their rfb locus by hierarchical clustering. Clustering analysis showed that the rfb locus gene composition is species-independent and strongly associated with the serological classification. The samples were grouped into four well-defined classes, which cluster together samples either belonging to the same serogroup or from different serogroups but sharing serological affinity. Our findings can assist in the development of new strategies based on molecular methods, which can lead to better tools for serological identification in this zoonosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Ca Ferreira
- https://ror.org/04wn09761 Bioinformatics Multidisciplinary Environment (BioME), Instituto Metrópole Digital (IMD), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Luiz de Fa Ferreira Filho
- https://ror.org/04wn09761 Departamento de Engenharia de Computação e Automação (DCA), Centro de Tecnologia (CT), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Maria Raquel V Cosate
- UMass Chain Medical School, Nonhuman Primates Reagent Resources, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Tetsu Sakamoto
- https://ror.org/04wn09761 Bioinformatics Multidisciplinary Environment (BioME), Instituto Metrópole Digital (IMD), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
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Jiang ZJ, Hong JC, Tang QX, Lin BW, Zhang WQ, Xia H, Yao XP. Streptococcus suis meningoencephalitis diagnosed with metagenomic next-generation sequencing: A case report with literature review. J Infect Chemother 2024; 30:544-547. [PMID: 37992864 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiac.2023.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Streptococcus suis is a pathogen of emerging zoonotic diseases and meningoencephalitis is the most frequent clinical symptom of S. suis infection in humans. Rapid diagnosis of S. suis meningoencephalitis is critical for the treatment of the disease. While the current routine microbiological tests including bacterial culture and gram staining are poorly sensitive, diagnosis of S. suis meningoencephalitis by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) has been rarely reported. Here, we report a 52-year-old female pork food producer with a broken finger developed S. suis meningoencephalitis. After her admission, no pathogenic bacteria were detected through bacterial culture and Gram staining microscopy in the cerebrospinal fluid obtained via lumbar puncture. However, mNGS identified the presence of S. suis in the sample. mNGS is a promising diagnostic tool for rapid diagnosis of rare infectious diseases in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zai-Jie Jiang
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology of First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Neuroscience, and Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350005, China
| | - Jian-Chen Hong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350005, China
| | - Qing-Xi Tang
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology of First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Neuroscience, and Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350005, China
| | - Bi-Wei Lin
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology of First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Neuroscience, and Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350005, China
| | - Wei-Qing Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350005, China
| | - Han Xia
- Hugobiotech Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Ping Yao
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology of First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Neuroscience, and Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350005, China; Department of Neurology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350212, China.
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Marx GE, Curren E, Olesen M, Cronquist L, Schlosser L, Nichols M, Bye M, Cote A, McCormick DW, Nelson CA. Tularemia From Veterinary Occupational Exposure. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:S71-S75. [PMID: 38294113 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Tularemia is a disease caused by Francisella tularensis, a highly infectious bacteria that can be transmitted to humans by direct contact with infected animals. Because of the potential for zoonotic transmission of F. tularensis, veterinary occupational risk is a concern. Here, we report on a human case of tularemia in a veterinarian after an accidental needlestick injury during abscess drainage in a sick dog. The veterinarian developed ulceroglandular tularemia requiring hospitalization but fully recovered after abscess drainage and a course of effective antibiotics. To systematically assess veterinary occupational transmission risk of F. tularensis, we conducted a survey of veterinary clinical staff after occupational exposure to animals with confirmed tularemia. We defined a high-risk exposure as direct contact to the infected animal's body fluids or potential aerosol inhalation without use of standard personal protective equipment (PPE). Survey data included information on 20 veterinary occupational exposures to animals with F. tularensis in 4 states. Veterinarians were the clinical staff most often exposed (40%), followed by veterinarian technicians and assistants (30% and 20%, respectively). Exposures to infected cats were most common (80%). Standard PPE was not used during 80% of exposures; a total of 7 exposures were categorized as high risk. Transmission of F. tularensis in the veterinary clinical setting is possible but overall risk is likely low. Veterinary clinical staff should use standard PPE and employ environmental precautions when handling sick animals to minimize risk of tularemia and other zoonotic infections; postexposure prophylaxis should be considered after high-risk exposures to animals with suspected or confirmed F. tularensis infection to prevent tularemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace E Marx
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Emily Curren
- Wyoming Department of Public Health, Cheyenne, Wyoming, USA
| | | | - Laura Cronquist
- North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, Bismarck, North Dakota, USA
| | - Levi Schlosser
- North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, Bismarck, North Dakota, USA
| | - Matthew Nichols
- Oklahoma State Department of Health, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Maria Bye
- Minnesota Department of Health, St Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Andrea Cote
- Wyoming Department of Public Health, Cheyenne, Wyoming, USA
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - David W McCormick
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Christina A Nelson
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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Sharma R, Patil RD, Singh B, Chakraborty S, Chandran D, Dhama K, Gopinath D, Jairath G, Rialch A, Mal G, Singh P, Chaicumpa W, Saikumar G. Tularemia - a re-emerging disease with growing concern. Vet Q 2023; 43:1-16. [PMID: 37916743 PMCID: PMC10732219 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2023.2277753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Tularemia caused by Gram-negative, coccobacillus bacterium, Francisella tularensis, is a highly infectious zoonotic disease. Human cases have been reported mainly from the United States, Nordic countries like Sweden and Finland, and some European and Asian countries. Naturally, the disease occurs in several vertebrates, particularly lagomorphs. Type A (subspecies tularensis) is more virulent and causes disease mainly in North America; type B (subspecies holarctica) is widespread, while subspecies mediasiatica is present in central Asia. F. tularensis is a possible bioweapon due to its lethality, low infectious dosage, and aerosol transmission. Small mammals like rabbits, hares, and muskrats are primary sources of human infections, but true reservoir of F. tularensis is unknown. Vector-borne tularemia primarily involves ticks and mosquitoes. The bacterial subspecies involved and mode of transmission determine the clinical picture. Early signs are flu-like illnesses that may evolve into different clinical forms of tularemia that may or may not include lymphadenopathy. Ulcero-glandular and glandular forms are acquired by arthropod bite or handling of infected animals, oculo-glandular form as a result of conjunctival infection, and oro-pharyngeal form by intake of contaminated food or water. Pulmonary form appears after inhalation of bacteria. Typhoidal form may occur after infection via different routes. Human-to-human transmission has not been known. Diagnosis can be achieved by serology, bacterial culture, and molecular methods. Treatment for tularemia typically entails use of quinolones, tetracyclines, or aminoglycosides. Preventive measures are necessary to avoid infection although difficult to implement. Research is underway for the development of effective live attenuated and subunit vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinku Sharma
- Disease Investigation Laboratory, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Regional Station, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Rajendra Damu Patil
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, DGCN College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, CSK HPKV, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Birbal Singh
- Disease Investigation Laboratory, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Regional Station, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Sandip Chakraborty
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, R.K. Nagar, West Tripura, India
| | | | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Devi Gopinath
- Disease Investigation Laboratory, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Regional Station, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Gauri Jairath
- Disease Investigation Laboratory, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Regional Station, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Ajayta Rialch
- Disease Investigation Laboratory, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Regional Station, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Gorakh Mal
- Disease Investigation Laboratory, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Regional Station, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Putan Singh
- Disease Investigation Laboratory, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Regional Station, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Wanpen Chaicumpa
- Center of Research Excellence in Therapeutic Proteins and Antibody Engineering, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - G. Saikumar
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Enabulele EE, Le Clec'h W, Roberts EK, Thompson CW, McDonough MM, Ferguson AW, Bradley RD, Anderson TJC, Platt RN. Prospecting for Zoonotic Pathogens by Using Targeted DNA Enrichment. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:1566-1579. [PMID: 37486179 PMCID: PMC10370864 DOI: 10.3201/eid2908.221818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 60 zoonoses are linked to small mammals, including some of the most devastating pathogens in human history. Millions of museum-archived tissues are available to understand natural history of those pathogens. Our goal was to maximize the value of museum collections for pathogen-based research by using targeted sequence capture. We generated a probe panel that includes 39,916 80-bp RNA probes targeting 32 pathogen groups, including bacteria, helminths, fungi, and protozoans. Laboratory-generated, mock-control samples showed that we are capable of enriching targeted loci from pathogen DNA 2,882‒6,746-fold. We identified bacterial species in museum-archived samples, including Bartonella, a known human zoonosis. These results showed that probe-based enrichment of pathogens is a highly customizable and efficient method for identifying pathogens from museum-archived tissues.
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Köppen K, Rydzewski K, Doellinger J, Myrtennäs K, Forsman M, Appelt S, Scholz H, Heuner K. Phenotypic and genotypic discrimination of Francisella tularensis ssp. holarctica clades. Int J Med Microbiol 2023; 313:151583. [PMID: 37331050 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2023.151583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Francisella tularensis is the causative agent of tularemia, a zoonotic disease with a wide host range. F. tularensis ssp. holarctica (Fth) is of clinical relevance for European countries, including Germany. Whole genome sequencing methods, including canonical Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (canSNP) typing and whole genome SNP typing, have revealed that European Fth strains belong to a few monophyletic populations. The majority of German Fth isolates belong to two basal phylogenetic clades B.6 (biovar I) and B.12 (biovar II). Strains of B.6 and B.12 seem to differ in their pathogenicity, and it has been shown that strains of biovar II are resistant against erythromycin. In this study, we present data corroborating our previous data demonstrating that basal clade B.12 can be divided into clades B.71 and B.72. By applying phylogenetic whole genome analysis as well as proteome analysis, we could verify that strains of these two clades are distinct from one another. This was confirmed by measuring the intensity of backscatter light on bacteria grown in liquid media. Strains belonging to clades B.6, B.71 or B.72 showed clade-specific backscatter growth curves. Furthermore, we present the whole genome sequence of strain A-1341, as a reference genome of clade B.71, and whole proteomes comparison of Fth strains belonging to clades B.6, B.71 and B.72. Further research is necessary to investigate phenotypes and putative differences in pathogenicity of the investigated different clades of Fth to better understand the relationship between observed phenotypes, pathogenicity and distribution of Fth strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Köppen
- Working group: Cellular Interactions of Bacterial Pathogens, Centre for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms (ZBS 2), Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kerstin Rydzewski
- Working group: Cellular Interactions of Bacterial Pathogens, Centre for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms (ZBS 2), Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joerg Doellinger
- Centre for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Proteomics and Spectroscopy (ZBS 6), Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kerstin Myrtennäs
- Division of CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI), Umeå, Sweden
| | - Mats Forsman
- Division of CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI), Umeå, Sweden
| | - Sandra Appelt
- Centre for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms (ZBS 2), Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Holger Scholz
- Centre for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms (ZBS 2), Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Klaus Heuner
- Working group: Cellular Interactions of Bacterial Pathogens, Centre for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms (ZBS 2), Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany; Centre for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms (ZBS 2), Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany.
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Shukla JL, Husain AA, Bhan S, Singh LR, Kashyap RS. Diagnostic utility of LAMP PCR targeting bcsp-31 gene for human brucellosis infection. Indian J Med Microbiol 2023; 44:100354. [PMID: 37356844 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmmb.2023.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Human brucellosis is a neglected zoonotic disease of significant public health concern. Molecular diagnosis of brucella remains challenging in low resource settings, due to the high infrastructure and cost involved. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a rapid point of care polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with the utility of on-field molecular diagnosis and offers a convenient alternative to conventional PCR. In the present study, we developed and evaluated the diagnostic utility of in house LAMP PCR targeting the Brucella genus-specific bcsp-31 gene in patients having febrile illness. MATERIALS AND METHODS The analytical sensitivity and specificity of bcsp-31 LAMP PCR was first evaluated using brucella (n = 8) and non-brucella cultures (n = 5), along with spiked clinical samples. The overall diagnostic utility of developed LAMP PCR was then further evaluated in 393 human samples suspected of brucellosis. RESULTS The developed LAMP PCR could detect as low as 8 fg of DNA by visual detection within 35min. We report sensitivity and specificity of the developed LAMP PCR as 90.91% and 99.37%.The accuracy of the developed test assay was found to be 98.60%. In clinical samples, LAMP gave positivity of 20% with the concordance of 89% with conventional PCR. CONCLUSION To conclude, a rapid, efficacious, sensitive LAMP PCR targeting the bcsp 31 gene was developed. The existing LAMP PCR can be used as a point of care screening test in various low resource endemic setting in lieu of conventional PCR for estimation of prevalence data, diagnosis and treatment of brucellosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayshree L Shukla
- Research Center, Dr. G.M. Taori Central India Institute of Medical Sciences (CIIMS), 88/2, Bajaj Nagar, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Aliabbas A Husain
- Research Center, Dr. G.M. Taori Central India Institute of Medical Sciences (CIIMS), 88/2, Bajaj Nagar, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Surya Bhan
- Deptartment of Biochemistry, North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, India
| | - Lokendra R Singh
- Research Center, Dr. G.M. Taori Central India Institute of Medical Sciences (CIIMS), 88/2, Bajaj Nagar, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rajpal S Kashyap
- Research Center, Dr. G.M. Taori Central India Institute of Medical Sciences (CIIMS), 88/2, Bajaj Nagar, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India.
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Robi DT, Bogale A, Urge B, Aleme M, Temteme S. Neglected zoonotic bacteria causes and associated risk factors of cattle abortion in different agro-ecological zones of southwest Ethiopia. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2023; 259:110592. [PMID: 37060817 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2023.110592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Three zoonotic bacteria, Coxiella burnetii, Leptospira spp, and Brucella spp, cause cattle abortion and significant losses in the livestock sector. However, these infections were neglected diseases in Ethiopia. Between October 2020 and October 2021, a cross-sectional study was carried out in southwest Ethiopia to determine the prevalence of abortion and identify the major zoonotic bacterial causes and risk factors that contribute to abortion. Using an indirect ELISA, antibodies to Brucella abortus, Leptospira Hardjo, and Coxiella burnetii were detected in serum samples taken from 461 cattle. Potential risk factors for cattle abortion were found using a multivariable random effect logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of cattle abortion was found to be 22.56 % (95 % CI: 18.74-26.38) in the study areas. Leptospira Hardjo (OR=1.8, 95% CI: 1.04-3.00), Coxiella burnetii (OR=2.7, 95 % CI: 1.26-5.62), and Brucella abortus (OR=9.8, 95 % CI: 1.27-17.15) were all associated with the occurrence of abortion in cattle, as were their co-infections (OR=8.1, 95 % CI: 1.28-39.33). Other risk factors for cattle abortion included breed (OR=16.7, 95 % CI: 2.20-26.77), herd size (OR=2.5, 95 % CI: 1.16-4.68), breeding method (OR=2.3, 95 % CI: 1.33-3.90), and contact with dogs (OR=2.2, 95 % CI: 1.34-3.53). According to the findings of this study, Brucella abortus, Coxiella burnetii, and Leptospira Hardjo are serious zoonoses that cause significant production loss in cattle due to abortion. To prevent transmission of these zoonotic diseases, it is crucial to implement effective control measures and increase public awareness. The causes of cattle abortion in the study areas should also be isolated and characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dereje Tulu Robi
- Ethiopia Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box: 34, Tepi, Ethiopia.
| | - Ararsa Bogale
- Ethiopia Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box: 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Beksisa Urge
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Holeta Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Holeta, Ethiopia
| | - Melkam Aleme
- Ethiopia Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box: 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Shiferaw Temteme
- Ethiopia Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box: 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
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Belo NO, de Angeli Dutra D, Rodello D, Crispim NPCC, Silva ASG, Coelho HLG, Cunha JLR, Martins NRS, Braga EM. Detection of Salmonella spp. in wild and domestic birds in an anthropized ecotone between the Cerrado and the Amazon Forest in Brazil. Braz J Microbiol 2023; 54:565-569. [PMID: 36534358 PMCID: PMC9944177 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-022-00886-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Emergence of zoonotic infectious diseases represent one of the main threats to people worldwide. To properly understand and prevent zoonoses is fundamental to study their epidemiology and the possibility of spillover events, especially for commercially intensive domestic animals and humans. Here, we studied 210 wild birds from the "Ipucas" region, which consists of fragments of the Amazon Forest interspersed with fragments of the "Cerrado" that is subject to seasonal flooding and 75 domestic birds from neighboring poultry farming. Then, we molecularly diagnosed Salmonella and Chlamydia from wild birds and poultry. Among the wild birds, four were diagnosed with Chlamydia psittaci and 23 with Salmonella spp., while we detected 15 poultry infected by Salmonella spp. and no poultry with C. psittaci. We highlighted the common infections of wild and domestic birds in an anthropologically modified environment and potential spillover of Salmonella pathogens among wild and livestock birds. Those infections can harm the health of native and domestic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. O. Belo
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - D. de Angeli Dutra
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
- Department of Zoology, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - D. Rodello
- Grupo de Pesquisa Em Ecologia E Conservação de Aves - ECOAVES, Universidade Federal do Tocantins, Palmas, TO Brazil
| | - N. P. C. C. Crispim
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - A. S. G. Silva
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - H. L. G. Coelho
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - J. L. R. Cunha
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - N. R. S. Martins
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - E. M. Braga
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
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Chen Q, Yang Q, Chen H, Yao Y, Shen L, Zhang R, Guo H, Yu Y, Zhou H. Zoonotic fungus Arthroderma multifidum causing chronic pulmonary infection. Int J Infect Dis 2023; 130:17-19. [PMID: 36828236 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2023.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
A rare case of fungus Arthroderma multifidum infection occurred in a 63-year-old man. The patient had some risk factors, including occupational exposure, immunosuppressive state, and structural basis following pulmonary tuberculosis and pneumothorax surgery. The pathogen was repeatedly isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and identified by gene sequencing. It is the first report of human infection caused by A. multifidum. Whole genome sequencing and analysis of its genomic characterization are completed. The findings provide us with a key clinical insight that the combination of immune suppression and environmental exposure could create an ideal condition for zoonotic fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Clinical In Vitro Diagnostic Techniques of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Zhejiang University, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hangfei Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yake Yao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lisha Shen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruhui Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huimin Guo
- Zhejiang Digena Diagnosis Technology CO., LTD, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunsong Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology and Bioinformatics of Zhejiang Province, Regional Medical Center for National Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Hua Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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About F, Pastre T, Boutrou M, Martinez AY, Melzani A, Peugny S, Michaud C, Zouaoui S, Carage T, Rose VS, Demar M, Lavigne JP, Djossou F, O'Callaghan D, Epelboin L, Keriel A. Novel Species of Brucella Causing Human Brucellosis, French Guiana. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:333-340. [PMID: 36692350 PMCID: PMC9881788 DOI: 10.3201/eid2902.220725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Human brucellosis is a zoonoses caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella. Infection results in subacute or chronic debilitating disease with nonspecific clinical manifestations and is often associated with consuming unpasteurized dairy products. We report 2 cases of brucellosis in male patients who were hospitalized in distinct towns of French Guiana, an overseas territory of France located on the northeastern shore of South America. Both men were citizens of Brazil working as clandestine goldminers in the deep Amazonian rainforest. Characterization of the 2 bacterial isolates revealed that they represent a potential new species of Brucella. Medical practitioners working in contact with wildlife in this region of the world should be aware of the existence of these pathogens and the potential for human infection.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Streptococcus suis (S suis) is a major pathogen of bacterial infectious diseases, which can be transmitted to human beings through close contact with sick pigs or carriers, and can cause toxic shock, meningitis, septicemia, pneumonia, and other complications, with an extremely high mortality and disability rate. S suis is also an emerging zoonotic agent, mainly occurring in China, Thailand, and the Netherlands. This seriously threatens the health and family economy of patients. CASE PRESENTATION A 75-year-old man presented with a 1-day history of fever, vomiting, coughing, chills, and unconsciousness. He was admitted with the diagnosis sepsis and intracranial infection. At admission, hematologic studies showed a leukocyte count of 23.45 × 109/L with 91% neutrophils. Chest computed tomography revealed double pneumonia. Blood cultures grew small colonies, which were identified as S suis. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed that the pathogen was susceptible to levofloxacin. And then, treatment with levofloxacin was implemented. Epidemiological investigations showed that the patient had eaten pork from a sick pig. When a patient with bacterial infection has a history of eating pork from sick pigs, human S suis infection should be taken seriously. CONCLUSION Although human S suis infection generally presents as a sporadic disease, its high burden highlights the importance of epidemiological surveillance and health education regarding human S suis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyu Chen
- College of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Shandong, China
| | - Renpeng Li
- Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China
| | - Xin Wang
- College of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Shandong, China
| | - Yuwei Liu
- College of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Shandong, China
| | - Zengqiang Kou
- Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Weifang Medical University, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Qiang Wang, Department of Epidemiology, Weifang Medical University, No. 7166 Baotong West street, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China (e-mail: ) and Zengqiang Kou, Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China (e-mail: )
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Byers KA, Lee MJ, Hill JE, Fernando C, Speerin L, Donovan CM, Patrick DM, Himsworth CG. Culling of Urban Norway Rats and Carriage of Bartonella spp. Bacteria, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:1659-1663. [PMID: 35876624 PMCID: PMC9328906 DOI: 10.3201/eid2808.211164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the effects of culling on Bartonella spp. bacteria carriage among urban rats in Canada. We found that the odds of Bartonella spp. carriage increased across city blocks except those in which culling occurred. Removing rats may have prevented an increase in Bartonella spp. prevalence, potentially lowering human health risks.
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Sato Y, Hermawan I, Kakita T, Okano S, Imai H, Nagai H, Kimura R, Yamashiro T, Kajita T, Toma C. Analysis of human clinical and environmental Leptospira to elucidate the eco-epidemiology of leptospirosis in Yaeyama, subtropical Japan. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010234. [PMID: 35358181 PMCID: PMC8970387 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leptospirosis, a zoonosis caused by species in the spirochete genus Leptospira, is endemic to the Yaeyama region in Okinawa, subtropical Japan. Species of the P1 subclade “virulent” group, within the genus Leptospira, are the main etiological agents of leptospirosis in Okinawa. However, their environmental persistence is poorly understood. This study used a combination of bacterial isolation and environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding methods to understand the eco-epidemiology of leptospirosis in this endemic region. Findings Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) characterized twelve human clinical L. interrogans isolates belonging to the P1 subclade “virulent” subgroup and 11 environmental soil isolates of the P1subclade “low virulent” subgroup (genetically related to L. kmetyi, n = 1; L. alstonii, n = 4; L. barantonii, n = 6) from the Yaeyama region targeting four virulence-related genes (lipL32, ligA, ligB and lpxD1). Clinical isolates were PCR positive for at least three targeted genes, while all environmental isolates were positive only for lipL32. Analysis of infected renal epithelial cells with selected clinical and environmental strains, revealed the disassembly of cell-cell junctions for the Hebdomadis clinical strain serogroup. Comparison of leptospiral eDNA during winter and summer identified operational taxonomic units corresponding to the species isolated from soil samples (L. kmetyi and L. barantonii) and additional P2 subclade species (L. licerasiae, L. wolffii-related, among others) that were not detected by soil cultivation. Total Leptospira read counts were higher in summer than in winter and the analysis of leptospiral/animal eDNA relationship suggested Rattus spp. as a potential reservoir animal. Conclusion Our study demonstrated high environmental Leptospira diversity in the Yaeyama region, particularly during summer, when most of the leptospirosis cases are reported. In addition, several Leptospira species with pathogenic potential were identified that have not yet been reported in Yaeyama; however, the environmental persistence of P1 subclade species previously isolated from human clinical cases in this region was absent, suggesting the need of further methodology development and surveillance. Leptospirosis is a widespread bacterial zoonosis and one of the most important acute febrile infectious disease in tropical and subtropical regions, which is difficult to differentiate from other infectious diseases common in these regions. Leptospirosis is endemic to Okinawa prefecture, the southernmost prefecture of Japan, where the infection occurs mainly after recreational activities in rivers in the northern part of Okinawa Main Island and the Yaeyama region. This study combined several methods such as bacterial isolation from soil and environmental DNA metabarcoding from river water samples to understand the persistence of Leptospira outside the human host, leptospiral diversity in the environment, and their potential reservoir animals in the wild environment of the Yaeyama region. Although this study didn’t confirm the environmental persistence of Leptospira species previously isolated from clinical cases, several newly reported Leptospira species with pathogenic potential from the Yaeyama region suggested the need for continual surveillance to improve leptospirosis control and prevention in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukuto Sato
- Research Laboratory Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
- Center for Strategic Research Project, Organization for Research Promotion, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
- * E-mail: (YS); (CT)
| | - Idam Hermawan
- Department of Bacteriology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Kakita
- Department of Biological Sciences, Okinawa Prefectural Institute of Health and Environment, Uruma-shi, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Sho Okano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Okinawa Prefectural Institute of Health and Environment, Uruma-shi, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Imai
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Marine Science; Faculty of Science, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Japan
| | - Hiroto Nagai
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Marine Science; Faculty of Science, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Kimura
- Department of Human Biology and Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Tetsu Yamashiro
- Department of Bacteriology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Tadashi Kajita
- Iriomote Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus, Taketomi, Okinawa, Japan
- United Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Claudia Toma
- Department of Bacteriology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
- * E-mail: (YS); (CT)
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Dadar M, Tiwari R, Sharun K, Dhama K. Importance of brucellosis control programs of livestock on the improvement of one health. Vet Q 2021; 41:137-151. [PMID: 33618618 PMCID: PMC7946044 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2021.1894501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucellosis not only represents an important health restraint on livestock but also causes high economic losses in many developing countries worldwide. Despite considerable efforts made for the control of brucellosis, the disease is still spreading in many regions (such as the Middle East) where it represents one of the most important health hazards impacting both animals and humans. The present review aims to investigate the efficacy of veterinary control programs regarding brucellosis, with a special focus on current prevention, control, and eradication approaches. The reasons for unsuccessful control programs such as the absence of highly effective vaccines and non-certified bulls are also debated, to understand why the prevalence of brucellosis in livestock is not decreasing in many areas despite considerable efforts taken to date. The importance of governmental and regional investment in brucellosis control remains one of the main limiting factors owing to the limited budget allocated to tackle this disease. In this context, one health concept has generated novel comprehensive approaches with multiple economic implications across the livestock industry and public health. However, the implementation of such global preventive strategies appears to be a key issue for many endemic and low-income countries. According to the collected data, epidemiological contexts including management and trade systems along with well-defined agro-ecological zones should be evaluated in brucellosis endemic countries to improve milk production and to enhance the sustainability of the livestock sector at both national and regional levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran.
| | - Ruchi Tiwari
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Sciences, UP Pandit Deen Dayal Upadyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Khan Sharun
- Division of Surgery, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Mugo BC, Lekopien C, Owiny M. 'We dry contaminated meat to make it safe': An assessment of knowledge, attitude and practices on anthrax during an outbreak, Kisumu, Kenya, 2019. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259017. [PMID: 34735481 PMCID: PMC8568283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Anthrax is the highest-ranked priority zoonotic disease in Kenya with about ten human cases annually. Anthrax outbreak was reported in Kisumu East Sub County after some villagers slaughtered and ate beef from a cow suspected to have died of anthrax. We aimed at establishing the magnitude of the outbreak, described associated factors, and assessed community knowledge, attitude, and practices on anthrax. Methods We reviewed human and animal records, conducted case search and contact tracing using standard case definitions in the period from July 1through to July 28, 2019. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess community knowledge, attitude, and practices towards anthrax. The household selection was done using multistage sampling. We cleaned and analyzed data in Ms. Excel and Epi Info. Descriptive statistics were carried out for continuous and categorical variables while analytical statistics for the association between dependent and independent variables were calculated. Results Out of 53 persons exposed through consumption or contact with suspicious beef, 23 cases (confirmed: 1, probable: 4, suspected: 18) were reviewed. The proportion of females was 52.17% (12/23), median age 13.5 years and range 45 years. The attack rate was 43.4% (23/53) and the case fatality rate was 4.35% (1/23). Knowledge level, determined by dividing those considered to be ‘having good knowledge’ on anthrax (numerator) by the total number of respondents (denominator) in the population regarding cause, transmission, symptoms and prevention was 51% for human anthrax and 52% for animal anthrax. Having good knowledge on anthrax was associated with rural residence [OR = 5.5 (95% CI 2.1–14.4; p<0.001)], having seen a case of anthrax [OR = 6.2 (95% CI 2.8–14.2; p<0.001)] and among those who present cattle for vaccination [OR = 2.6 (95% CI 1.2–5.6; p = 0.02)]. About 23.2% (26/112) would slaughter and sell beef to neighbors while 63.4% (71/112) would bury or burn the carcass. Nearly 93.8% (105/112) believed vaccination prevents anthrax. However, 5.4% (62/112) present livestock for vaccination. Conclusion Most anthrax exposures were through meat consumption. Poor knowledge of the disease might hamper prevention and control efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Chege Mugo
- Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - Cornelius Lekopien
- Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Maurice Owiny
- Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
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Noguera Zayas LP, Rüegg S, Torgerson P. The burden of zoonoses in Paraguay: A systematic review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009909. [PMID: 34727113 PMCID: PMC8589157 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Underestimation of zoonoses is exacerbated in low and middle-income countries due mainly to inequalities with serious consequences in healthcare. This is difficult to gauge and reduce the impact of those diseases. Our study focuses on Paraguay, where the livestock industry is one of the major components of the country's economy. Therefore, the rationale of this study was to develop a case study in Paraguay to estimate the dual impact of zoonotic diseases on both the human health and animal health sector and thus determine the societal burden of such diseases. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We conducted a systemic review (including a meta-analysis) to assess the burden of zoonoses in Paraguay, including official reports and grey literature of disease incidence and prevalence. We estimated the Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) and Zoonosis Disability Adjusted Life Years (zDALYs) to measure the difference between the current health status and the desired health situation of animals and the Paraguayan population based on 50 zoonotic diseases suggested by the WHO (World Health Organization), OIE (World Organization for Animal Health) and the National Health in Paraguay. The total DALYs represent 19,384 (95% CI: from 15,805 to 29,733), and zDALYs, 62,178 (95% CI: from 48,696 to 77,188). According to the results, the priority pathogens for DALYs are E. coli, Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania spp, and Toxoplasma gondii. When we include the additional animal health burden, the most important pathogens are Brucella spp, E. coli, Trypanosoma cruzi, and Fasciola hepatica for zDALYs. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE This is the first study to integrate DALYs and zDALYs with important clues related to the health status of Paraguay. Through DALYs and zDALYs, our perspective becomes more complete because we consider not only human health but also animal health. This is important for setting priorities in disease control, especially in a society where livestock contribute significantly to the economy and to human well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liz Paola Noguera Zayas
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Life Science Zürich Graduate School, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Simon Rüegg
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Paul Torgerson
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
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Murray GGR, Balmer AJ, Herbert J, Hadjirin NF, Kemp CL, Matuszewska M, Bruchmann S, Hossain ASMM, Gottschalk M, Tucker AW, Miller E, Weinert LA. Mutation rate dynamics reflect ecological change in an emerging zoonotic pathogen. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009864. [PMID: 34748531 PMCID: PMC8601623 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutation rates vary both within and between bacterial species, and understanding what drives this variation is essential for understanding the evolutionary dynamics of bacterial populations. In this study, we investigate two factors that are predicted to influence the mutation rate: ecology and genome size. We conducted mutation accumulation experiments on eight strains of the emerging zoonotic pathogen Streptococcus suis. Natural variation within this species allows us to compare tonsil carriage and invasive disease isolates, from both more and less pathogenic populations, with a wide range of genome sizes. We find that invasive disease isolates have repeatedly evolved mutation rates that are higher than those of closely related carriage isolates, regardless of variation in genome size. Independent of this variation in overall rate, we also observe a stronger bias towards G/C to A/T mutations in isolates from more pathogenic populations, whose genomes tend to be smaller and more AT-rich. Our results suggest that ecology is a stronger correlate of mutation rate than genome size over these timescales, and that transitions to invasive disease are consistently accompanied by rapid increases in mutation rate. These results shed light on the impact that ecology can have on the adaptive potential of bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma G. R. Murray
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Andrew J. Balmer
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Josephine Herbert
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Nazreen F. Hadjirin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline L. Kemp
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Marta Matuszewska
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Sebastian Bruchmann
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Marcelo Gottschalk
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Alexander W. Tucker
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Eric Miller
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy A. Weinert
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Cadmus S, Salam SP, Adesokan HK, Akporube K, Ola-Daniel F, Awosanya EJ. Seroprevalence of brucellosis and Q fever infections amongst pastoralists and their cattle herds in Sokoto State, Nigeria. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254530. [PMID: 34283853 PMCID: PMC8291711 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucellosis and Q fever are neglected zoonoses of global health importance, with unknown true prevalence in occupationally vulnerable settings, partly due to misdiagnosis for other febrile conditions and poor access to primary health care. We examined the seroprevalence of these diseases and associated factors amongst pastoralists and their cattle in Sokoto State, a hub of cattle and pastoral populations in Nigeria. Serum samples randomly collected from 137 pastoralists and 366 cattle from 27 herds in three selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state were analysed for antibodies to Brucella abortus using Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBT) and competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (cELISA) as well as antibodies to Coxiella burnetti using indirect ELISA. Consenting pastoralists' knowledge, perception and practices about the diseases were assessed using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis at p ≤ 0.05 level of significance. Brucellosis adjusted individual seroprevalence were 0.83% (95%CI: 0.04-4.59%) and 0% among pastoralists; 2.28% (95%CI: 1.16-4.43%) and 5.70% (95%CI: 3.68-8.74%) in cattle by RBT and cELISA, respectively. Adjusted herd-level seroprevalence for brucellosis were 23.20% (95%CI: 11.07-42.54%) and 42.00% (95%CI: 25.27-61.11%) by RBT and cELISA, respectively. For Q fever, higher seroprevalence of 62.57% (95%CI: 54.04-70.46%) and 2.98% (95%CI: 1.57-5.58%) were recorded amongst the pastoralists and their cattle, respectively. with adjusted herd-level seroprevalence of 40.36% (95%CI: 22.57-63.17%). The LGAs of sampling were significantly (OR: 0.2; 95%CI: 0.02-1.00) associated with Q fever infection, though marginal. The majority of the pastoralists had poor knowledge, perception and practices towards the diseases. This is the first study establishing the presence of brucellosis and Q fever at the human-animal interface in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The pastoralists' poor knowledge, perception and practices about these diseases are worrisome and are important factors for consideration in disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeon Cadmus
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Center for Control and Prevention of Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Hezekiah Kehinde Adesokan
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Kelechi Akporube
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Fiyinfoluwa Ola-Daniel
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Huang M, Ma J, Jiao J, Li C, Chen L, Zhu Z, Ruan F, Xing L, Zheng X, Fu M, Ma B, Gan C, Mao Y, Zhang C, Sun P, Liu X, Lin Z, Chen L, Lu Z, Zhou D, Wen B, Chen W, Xiong X, Xia J. The epidemic of Q fever in 2018 to 2019 in Zhuhai city of China determined by metagenomic next-generation sequencing. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009520. [PMID: 34264939 PMCID: PMC8282036 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Q fever is a worldwide zoonosis caused by Coxiella burnetii (Cb). From January 2018 to November 2019, plasma samples from 2,382 patients with acute fever of unknown cause at a hospital in Zhuhai city of China were tested using metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). Of those tested, 138 patients (5.8%) were diagnosed with Q fever based on the presence of Cb genomic DNA detected by mNGS. Among these, 78 cases (56.5%) presented from Nov 2018 to Mar 2019, suggesting an outbreak of Q fever. 55 cases with detailed clinical information that occurred during the outbreak period were used for further analysis. The vast majority of plasma samples from those Cb-mNGS-positive patients were positive in a Cb-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (n = 38) and/or indirect immunofluorescence assay (n = 26). Mobile phone tracing data was used to define the area of infection during the outbreak. This suggested the probable infection source was Cb-infected goats and cattle at the only official authorized slaughterhouse in Zhuhai city. Phylogenic analysis based on genomic sequences indicated Cb strains identified in the patients, goat and cattle were formed a single branch, most closely related to the genomic group of Cb dominated by strains isolated from goats. Our study demonstrates Q fever was epidemic in 2018–2019 in Zhuhai city, and this is the first confirmed epidemic of Q fever in a contemporary city in China. Generally, the clinical diagnosis of acute Q fever, which is caused by Coxiella burnetii, is based on serologic methods that detect the presence antibodies produced by the body to fight the infection. However, the lag time between becoming infected and production of antibodies limits early diagnosis using this method. Here, we confirmed an epidemic of human Q fever in Zhuhai, a contemporary city in China, using clinical metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and cell phone location data. Our results indicate that Cb-infected goats and cattle at the only official authorized slaughterhouse in Zhuhai were the likely infection source for the Q fever epidemic. More importantly, we demonstrate that mNGS is a useful tool for rapid and effective public health responses to acute bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxing Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Department of Microbiology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Jun Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, 20# Dong-Da-Jie Street, Fengtai, Beijing, China
| | - Chunna Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China
| | - Luan Chen
- BGI PathoGenesis Pharmaceutical Technology, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhongyi Zhu
- BGI PathoGenesis Pharmaceutical Technology, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Feng Ruan
- Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Li Xing
- BGI PathoGenesis Pharmaceutical Technology, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xinchun Zheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China
| | - Mengjiao Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, 20# Dong-Da-Jie Street, Fengtai, Beijing, China
| | - Binyin Ma
- BGI PathoGenesis Pharmaceutical Technology, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chongjie Gan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China
| | - Yuanchen Mao
- BGI PathoGenesis Pharmaceutical Technology, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chongnan Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China
| | - Ping Sun
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China
| | - Ziliang Lin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China
| | - Lu Chen
- BGI PathoGenesis Pharmaceutical Technology, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhiyu Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, 20# Dong-Da-Jie Street, Fengtai, Beijing, China
| | - Dongsheng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, 20# Dong-Da-Jie Street, Fengtai, Beijing, China
| | - Bohai Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, 20# Dong-Da-Jie Street, Fengtai, Beijing, China
| | - Weijun Chen
- BGI PathoGenesis Pharmaceutical Technology, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- * E-mail: (WJC); (XLX); (JXY)
| | - Xiaolu Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, 20# Dong-Da-Jie Street, Fengtai, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (WJC); (XLX); (JXY)
| | - Jinyu Xia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China
- * E-mail: (WJC); (XLX); (JXY)
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21
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Richard E, Bourhy P, Picardeau M, Moulin L, Wurtzer S. Effect of disinfection agents and quantification of potentially viable Leptospira in fresh water samples using a highly sensitive integrity-qPCR assay. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251901. [PMID: 34038443 PMCID: PMC8153454 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is an emerging worldwide zoonotic disease, but the general biology of the causative agents is still poorly understood. Humans are an occasional host. The main risk factors are water-associated exposure during professional or recreational activities or during outbreaks in endemic areas. Detecting the presence of pathogenic bacteria in aquatic environments and their capacity to resist various inactivation processes are research fields that need to be further developed. In addition, the methods used for detecting and enumerating Leptospira still need to be improved. We aimed to describe a new quantitative polymerase chain reaction coupled to propidium monoazide treatment (PMAqPCR) that targets not only total Leptospira but also discriminates pathogenic from non-pathogenic Leptospira while also addressing PCR inhibitors, a frequently encountered problem when studying environmental water. In a second step, the killing efficiency of Leptospira to different treatments was tested and PMAqPCR compared to culture-based enumeration. This provided information about the effects of temperature, as well as ultraviolet and chlorine disinfection, that are both related to water treatment processes, in particular for the production of drinking water, on the persistence of both saprophytic and pathogenic Leptospira. Finally, PMAqPCR was used for the detection of Leptospira in freshwater samples for a proof-of-concept. In conclusion, our method could be used for routine freshwater monitoring and allows better evaluation of the presence of Leptospira, allowing evaluation of the bacterial dynamics in a designated area or assessment of the efficacy of water disinfection processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Richard
- Eau de Paris, DRDQE, Ivry-Sur-Seine, France
- Institut Pasteur, Unité Biologie des Spirochètes, Paris, France
| | - Pascale Bourhy
- Institut Pasteur, Unité Biologie des Spirochètes, Paris, France
| | - Mathieu Picardeau
- Institut Pasteur, Unité Biologie des Spirochètes, Paris, France
- * E-mail: (MP); (LM)
| | - Laurent Moulin
- Eau de Paris, DRDQE, Ivry-Sur-Seine, France
- * E-mail: (MP); (LM)
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22
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Djangwani J, Ooko Abong’ G, Gicuku Njue L, Kaindi DWM. Brucellosis: Prevalence with reference to East African community countries - A rapid review. Vet Med Sci 2021; 7:851-867. [PMID: 33421354 PMCID: PMC8136958 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease which is endemic to certain regions of the world including Sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of this article is to provide a recent and rapid review on brucellosis prevalence in East African Community (EAC) countries. Literature was obtained using Google Scholar search engine and screened for relevancy and fulfilment of criteria to 1, 17, 4, 4, 30 and 29 articles retained for brucellosis prevalence in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. Recent literature (published in the last decade 2010 to 2019) was considered for prevalence results in this review. In EAC, livestock had an animal-level prevalence of 0.2% to 43.8%, 0.0% to 20.0% and 0.0% to 13.8% for cattle, goats and sheep respectively. In humans, the prevalence varied mostly between 0.0% and 35.8%. In conclusion, brucellosis is quite prevalent in the region. The reported prevalence calls for plans or more efforts from individual member countries and from EAC, as a region, to control brucellosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juvenal Djangwani
- College of Agriculture and Veterinary SciencesDepartment of Food Science, Nutrition and TechnologyUniversity of NairobiKangemiKenya
- College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences and Veterinary MedicineSchool of Agriculture and Food SciencesUniversity of RwandaMusanzeRwanda
| | - George Ooko Abong’
- College of Agriculture and Veterinary SciencesDepartment of Food Science, Nutrition and TechnologyUniversity of NairobiKangemiKenya
| | - Lucy Gicuku Njue
- College of Agriculture and Veterinary SciencesDepartment of Food Science, Nutrition and TechnologyUniversity of NairobiKangemiKenya
| | - Dasel W. M. Kaindi
- College of Agriculture and Veterinary SciencesDepartment of Food Science, Nutrition and TechnologyUniversity of NairobiKangemiKenya
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23
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Balderrama-Gutierrez G, Milovic A, Cook VJ, Islam MN, Zhang Y, Kiaris H, Belisle JT, Mortazavi A, Barbour AG. An Infection-Tolerant Mammalian Reservoir for Several Zoonotic Agents Broadly Counters the Inflammatory Effects of Endotoxin. mBio 2021; 12:e00588-21. [PMID: 33849979 PMCID: PMC8092257 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00588-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals that are competent reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens commonly suffer little morbidity from the infections. To investigate mechanisms of this tolerance of infection, we used single-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) as an experimental model of inflammation and compared the responses of two rodents: Peromyscus leucopus, the white-footed deermouse and reservoir for the agents of Lyme disease and other zoonoses, and the house mouse Mus musculus Four hours after injection with LPS or saline, blood, spleen, and liver samples were collected and subjected to transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq), metabolomics, and specific reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Differential expression analysis was at the gene, pathway, and network levels. LPS-treated deermice showed signs of sickness similar to those of exposed mice and had similar increases in corticosterone levels and expression of interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor, IL-1β, and C-reactive protein. By network analysis, the M. musculus response to LPS was characterized as cytokine associated, while the P. leucopus response was dominated by neutrophil activity terms. In addition, dichotomies in the expression levels of arginase 1 and nitric oxide synthase 2 and of IL-10 and IL-12 were consistent with type M1 macrophage responses in mice and type M2 responses in deermice. Analysis of metabolites in plasma and RNA in organs revealed species differences in tryptophan metabolism. Two genes in particular signified the different phenotypes of deermice and mice: the Slpi and Ibsp genes. Key RNA-seq findings for P. leucopus were replicated in older animals, in a systemic bacterial infection, and with cultivated fibroblasts. The findings indicate that P. leucopus possesses several adaptive traits to moderate inflammation in its balancing of infection resistance and tolerance.IMPORTANCE Animals that are natural carriers of pathogens that cause human diseases commonly manifest little or no sickness as a consequence of infection. Examples include the deermouse, Peromyscus leucopus, which is a reservoir for Lyme disease and several other disease agents in North America, and some types of bats, which are carriers of viruses with pathogenicity for humans. Mechanisms of this phenomenon of infection tolerance and entailed trade-off costs are poorly understood. Using a single injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxin as a proxy for infection, we found that deermice differed from the mouse (Mus musculus) in responses to LPS in several diverse pathways, including innate immunity, oxidative stress, and metabolism. Features distinguishing the deermice cumulatively would moderate downstream ill effects of LPS. Insights gained from the P. leucopus model in the laboratory have implications for studying infection tolerance in other important reservoir species, including bats and other types of wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Balderrama-Gutierrez
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Ana Milovic
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Vanessa J Cook
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - M Nurul Islam
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Youwen Zhang
- Department of Drug Discovery & Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Hippokratis Kiaris
- Peromyscus Genetic Stock Center, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - John T Belisle
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Ali Mortazavi
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Alan G Barbour
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
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24
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Jayasundara D, Senavirathna I, Warnasekara J, Gamage C, Siribaddana S, Kularatne SAM, Matthias M, Mariet JF, Picardeau M, Agampodi S, M. Vinetz J. 12 Novel clonal groups of Leptospira infecting humans in multiple contrasting epidemiological contexts in Sri Lanka. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009272. [PMID: 33735202 PMCID: PMC8009393 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a ubiquitous zoonotic disease and a major clinical challenge owing to the multitude of clinical presentations and manifestations that are possibly attributable to the diversity of Leptospira, the understanding of which is key to study the epidemiology of this emerging global disease threat. Sri Lanka is a hotspot for leptospirosis with high levels of endemicity as well as annual epidemics. We carried out a prospective study of Leptospira diversity in Sri Lanka, covering the full range of climatic zones, geography, and clinical severity. Samples were collected for leptospiral culture from 1,192 patients from 15 of 25 districts in Sri Lanka over two and half years. Twenty-five isolates belonging to four pathogenic Leptospira species were identified: L. interrogans, L. borgpetersenii, L. weilii, and L. kirschneri. At least six serogroups were identified among the isolates: Autumnalis (6), Pyrogenes (4), Icterohaemorrhagiae (2), Celledoni (1), Grippotyphosa (2) and Bataviae (1). Seven isolates did not agglutinate using available antisera panels, suggesting new serogroups. Isolates were sequenced using an Illumina platform. These data add 25 new core genome sequence types and were clustered in 15 clonal groups, including 12 new clonal groups. L. borgpetersenii was found only in the dry zone and L. weilii only in the wet zone. Acute kidney injury and cardiovascular involvement were seen only with L. interrogans infections. Thrombocytopenia and liver impairment were seen in both L. interrogans and L. borgpetersenii infections. The inadequate sensitivity of culture isolation to identify infecting Leptospira species underscores the need for culture-independent typing methods for Leptospira. There is a huge diversity in pathogenic Leptospira species worldwide, and our knowledge of the currently circulating species is deficient owing to limited isolation and identification of Leptospira species from endemic countries. This prospective study reveals the wide pathogen diversity that causes human leptospirosis in Sri Lanka, representing four species, more than six serogroups, and fifteen clonal groups. Further, the different geographic and climatic zone distributions and clinical manifestations observed underscores the need for prospective studies to expand the molecular epidemiological approaches to combat leptospirosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesha Jayasundara
- Leptospirosis Research Laboratory, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Indika Senavirathna
- Leptospirosis Research Laboratory, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Janith Warnasekara
- Leptospirosis Research Laboratory, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Chandika Gamage
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Sisira Siribaddana
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Michael Matthias
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | | | | | - Suneth Agampodi
- Leptospirosis Research Laboratory, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Joseph M. Vinetz
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
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25
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Mangombi JB, N’dilimabaka N, Lekana-Douki JB, Banga O, Maghendji-Nzondo S, Bourgarel M, Leroy E, Fenollar F, Mediannikov O. First investigation of pathogenic bacteria, protozoa and viruses in rodents and shrews in context of forest-savannah-urban areas interface in the city of Franceville (Gabon). PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248244. [PMID: 33684147 PMCID: PMC7939261 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Rodents are reservoirs of numerous zoonotic diseases caused by bacteria, protozoans, or viruses. In Gabon, the circulation and maintenance of rodent-borne zoonotic infectious agents are poorly studied and are often limited to one type of pathogen. Among the three existing studies on this topic, two are focused on a zoonotic virus, and the third is focused on rodent Plasmodium. In this study, we searched for a wide range of bacteria, protozoa and viruses in different organs of rodents from the town of Franceville in Gabon. Samples from one hundred and ninety-eight (198) small mammals captured, including two invasive rodent species, five native rodent species and 19 shrews belonging to the Soricidae family, were screened. The investigated pathogens were bacteria from the Rickettsiaceae and Anaplasmataceae families, Mycoplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Borrelia spp., Orientia spp., Occidentia spp., Leptospira spp., Streptobacillus moniliformis, Coxiella burnetii, and Yersinia pestis; parasites from class Kinetoplastida spp. (Leishmania spp., Trypanosoma spp.), Piroplasmidae spp., and Toxoplasma gondii; and viruses from Paramyxoviridae, Hantaviridae, Flaviviridae and Mammarenavirus spp. We identified the following pathogenic bacteria: Anaplasma spp. (8.1%; 16/198), Bartonella spp. (6.6%; 13/198), Coxiella spp. (5.1%; 10/198) and Leptospira spp. (3.5%; 7/198); and protozoans: Piroplasma sp. (1%; 2/198), Toxoplasma gondii (0.5%; 1/198), and Trypanosoma sp. (7%; 14/198). None of the targeted viral genes were detected. These pathogens were found in Gabonese rodents, mainly Lophuromys sp., Lemniscomys striatus and Praomys sp. We also identified new genotypes: Candidatus Bartonella gabonensis and Uncultured Anaplasma spp. This study shows that rodents in Gabon harbor some human pathogenic bacteria and protozoans. It is necessary to determine whether the identified microorganisms are capable of undergoing zoonotic transmission from rodents to humans and if they may be responsible for human cases of febrile disease of unknown etiology in Gabon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joa Braïthe Mangombi
- Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, Microbes, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Nadine N’dilimabaka
- Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
- Département de Biologie, Faculté des sciences, Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku (USTM), Franceville, Gabon
| | - Jean-Bernard Lekana-Douki
- Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
- Département de Parasitologie, Université des Sciences de la Santé (USS), Owendo, Libreville
| | - Octavie Banga
- Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
| | - Sydney Maghendji-Nzondo
- Département Epidémiologie-Biostatistique et Informatique Médicale (DEBIM), Université des Sciences de la Santé (USS), Owendo, Libreville
| | - Mathieu Bourgarel
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Harare, Zimbabwe
- ASTRE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRA, Montpellier, France
| | - Eric Leroy
- Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
- UMR MIVEGEC IRD-CNRS-UM, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Florence Fenollar
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, Microbes, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Oleg Mediannikov
- IHU Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, Microbes, MEPHI, Marseille, France
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26
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Shafie NJ, Abdul Halim NS, Nor Zalipah M, Mohd Amin NAZ, Syed Esa SM, Md-Nor S, Casanovas-Massana A, Ko AI, Palma F, Neves Souza F, Costa F. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices regarding Leptospirosis among Visitors to a Recreational Forest in Malaysia. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 104:1290-1296. [PMID: 33534768 PMCID: PMC8045624 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-0306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease and a worldwide public health problem that affects mainly high-risk groups. Characterizing knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among high-risk groups is important to develop appropriate prevention programs. Here, we performed a cross-sectional study among 300 visitors of a recreational forest in Malaysia to examine leptospirosis KAP and demographics. These variables were integrated to create knowledge and practice scores for each respondent. All respondents had heard about leptospirosis, and 87% of them correctly identified it as a disease. The majority of respondents had high knowledge (63%), positive attitude, and good practice (68%) toward prevention of the disease. However, there were gaps in knowledge, with 78% of the respondents indicating eating without washing hands as the major cause of leptospirosis transmission. Our final model identified that higher knowledge score was associated with higher practice score. Our results indicate that it is important to increase knowledge, especially on transmission routes of leptospirosis, among visitors in recreational areas. Moreover, more attention needs to be paid to promote good practice habits among visitors, targeting those at higher risk of being infected by leptospirosis to prevent potential outbreaks in the recreational areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Juliani Shafie
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | | | - Mohamed Nor Zalipah
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Shukor Md-Nor
- School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Arnau Casanovas-Massana
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Albert I. Ko
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Brazilian Ministry of Health, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Palma
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Fabio Neves Souza
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Federico Costa
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
- Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Brazilian Ministry of Health, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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27
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Thompson CW, Phelps KL, Allard MW, Cook JA, Dunnum JL, Ferguson AW, Gelang M, Khan FAA, Paul DL, Reeder DM, Simmons NB, Vanhove MPM, Webala PW, Weksler M, Kilpatrick CW. Preserve a Voucher Specimen! The Critical Need for Integrating Natural History Collections in Infectious Disease Studies. mBio 2021; 12:e02698-20. [PMID: 33436435 PMCID: PMC7844540 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02698-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite being nearly 10 months into the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic, the definitive animal host for SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), the causal agent of COVID-19, remains unknown. Unfortunately, similar problems exist for other betacoronaviruses, and no vouchered specimens exist to corroborate host species identification for most of these pathogens. This most basic information is critical to the full understanding and mitigation of emerging zoonotic diseases. To overcome this hurdle, we recommend that host-pathogen researchers adopt vouchering practices and collaborate with natural history collections to permanently archive microbiological samples and host specimens. Vouchered specimens and associated samples provide both repeatability and extension to host-pathogen studies, and using them mobilizes a large workforce (i.e., biodiversity scientists) to assist in pandemic preparedness. We review several well-known examples that successfully integrate host-pathogen research with natural history collections (e.g., yellow fever, hantaviruses, helminths). However, vouchering remains an underutilized practice in such studies. Using an online survey, we assessed vouchering practices used by microbiologists (e.g., bacteriologists, parasitologists, virologists) in host-pathogen research. A much greater number of respondents permanently archive microbiological samples than archive host specimens, and less than half of respondents voucher host specimens from which microbiological samples were lethally collected. To foster collaborations between microbiologists and natural history collections, we provide recommendations for integrating vouchering techniques and archiving of microbiological samples into host-pathogen studies. This integrative approach exemplifies the premise underlying One Health initiatives, providing critical infrastructure for addressing related issues ranging from public health to global climate change and the biodiversity crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody W Thompson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Marc W Allard
- Center of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U. S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Joseph A Cook
- Museum of Southwestern Biology, Biology Department, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Jonathan L Dunnum
- Museum of Southwestern Biology, Biology Department, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Adam W Ferguson
- Gantz Family Collections Center, Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Magnus Gelang
- Gothenburg Natural History Museum, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Gothenburg Global Biodiversity Centre, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Deborah L Paul
- Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
- Species File Group, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Nancy B Simmons
- Department of Mammalogy, Division of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, New York, USA
| | - Maarten P M Vanhove
- Hasselt University, Centre for Environmental Sciences, Research Group Zoology: Biodiversity and Toxicology, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Paul W Webala
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, Maasai Mara University, Narok, Kenya
| | - Marcelo Weksler
- Departamento de Vertebrados, Museu Nacional, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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28
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Abstract
Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a microsporidian microorganism that causes intestinal disease in animals including humans. E. bieneusi is an obligate intracellular pathogen, typically causing severe or chronic diarrhoea, malabsorption and/or wasting. Currently, E. bieneusi is recognised as a fungus, although its exact classification remains contentious. The transmission of E. bieneusi can occur from person to person and/or animals to people. Transmission is usually via the faecal-oral route through E. bieneusi spore-contaminated water, environment or food, or direct contact with infected individuals. Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes are usually identified and classified by PCR-based sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA. To date, ~600 distinct genotypes of E. bieneusi have been recorded in ~170 species of animals, including various orders of mammals and reptiles as well as insects in >40 countries. Moreover, E. bieneusi has also been found in recreational water, irrigation water, and treated raw- and waste-waters. Although many studies have been conducted on the epidemiology of E. bieneusi, prevalence surveys of animals and humans are scant in some countries, such as Australia, and transmission routes of individual genotypes and related risk factors are poorly understood. This article/chapter reviews aspects of the taxonomy, biology and epidemiology of E. bieneusi; the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of microsporidiosis; critically appraises the naming system for E. bieneusi genotypes as well as the phylogenetic relationships of these genotypes; provides new insights into the prevalence and genetic composition of E. bieneusi populations in animals in parts of Australia using molecular epidemiological tools; and proposes some areas for future research in the E. bieneusi/microsporidiosis field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Anson V Koehler
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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Little S, Braff J, Place J, Buch J, Dewage BG, Knupp A, Beall M. Canine infection with Dirofilaria immitis, Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma spp., and Ehrlichia spp. in the United States, 2013-2019. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:10. [PMID: 33407758 PMCID: PMC7789229 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04514-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dogs in the US are commonly infected with vector-borne pathogens, including heartworm and tick-borne disease agents. The geographic distribution of both arthropod vectors and the pathogens they transmit continues to expand. METHODS To describe the current geographic distribution and prevalence of antigen of Dirofilaria immitis and antibody to Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia spp., and Anaplasma spp. in dogs, we summarized over 144 million test results from 2013 to 2019, inclusive, by county, state, and region. Canine seroprevalence by state was compared to population-adjusted human reports of tick-borne diseases. RESULTS Results varied regionally, with D. immitis antigen and Ehrlichia spp. antibodies more frequently detected in the Southeast (2.6% and 5.2%, respectively) and antibody to B. burgdorferi and Anaplasma spp. most common in the Northeast (12.1% and 7.3%, respectively). Overall, percent positive test results to D. immitis decreased in the Southeast by 33.3% when compared to earlier summaries using the same strategy (from 3.9 to 2.6%). Geographic expansion of areas where dogs commonly test positive for Ehrlichia spp. was evident, likely because of a change in the test made in 2012 to allow detection of antibodies to E. ewingii concomitant with expansion of vector tick populations. Percent positive test results to Ehrlichia spp. increased in every region; this shift was particularly pronounced in the Southeast, where percent positive test results increased fourfold (from 1.3 to 5.2%). Continued geographic expansion of B. burgdorferi and A. phagocytophilum was apparent in the Northeast, Midwest, and Upper South, although canine seroprevalence of antibody to B. burgdorferi was much lower than prior surveys in many Lyme-endemic areas. Annual reports of human cases of Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis were associated with percent positive canine results by state for the three tick-borne disease agents (R2 = 0.812, 0.521, and 0.546, respectively). Within endemic areas, percent positive test results for all three tick-borne agents demonstrated evidence of geographic expansion. CONCLUSIONS Large scale analysis of results from screening dogs in practice for evidence of vector-borne infections, including those with zoonotic importance, continues to be a valuable strategy for understanding geographic trends in infection risk over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Little
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK USA
| | | | - Joshua Place
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK USA
| | - Jesse Buch
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME USA
| | - Bhagya Galkissa Dewage
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK USA
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Eudes Filho J, dos Santos IB, Reis CMS, Patané JSL, Paredes V, Bernardes JPRA, Poggiani SDSC, Castro TDCB, Gomez OM, Pereira SA, Schubach EYP, Gomes KP, Mavengere H, Alves LGDB, Lucas J, Paes HC, Albuquerque P, Cruz LM, McEwen JG, Stajich JE, Almeida-Paes R, Zancopé-Oliveira RM, Matute DR, Barker BM, Felipe MSS, Teixeira MDM, Nicola AM. A novel Sporothrix brasiliensis genomic variant in Midwestern Brazil: evidence for an older and wider sporotrichosis epidemic. Emerg Microbes Infect 2020; 9:2515-2525. [PMID: 33155518 PMCID: PMC7717857 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2020.1847001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous infection caused by fungi from the genus Sporothrix. It is transmitted by inoculation of infective particles found in plant-contaminated material or diseased animals, characterizing the classic sapronotic and emerging zoonotic transmission, respectively. Since 1998, southeastern Brazil has experienced a zoonotic sporotrichosis epidemic caused by S. brasiliensis, centred in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Our observation of feline sporotrichosis cases in Brasília (Midwestern Brazil), around 900 km away from Rio de Janeiro, led us to question whether the epidemic caused by S. brasiliensis has spread from the epicentre in Rio de Janeiro, emerged independently in the two locations, or if the disease has been present and unrecognized in Midwestern Brazil. A retrospective analysis of 91 human and 4 animal cases from Brasília, ranging from 1993 to 2018, suggests the occurrence of both sapronotic and zoonotic transmission. Molecular typing of the calmodulin locus identified S. schenckii as the agent in two animals and all seven human patients from which we were able to recover clinical isolates. In two other animals, the disease was caused by S. brasiliensis. Whole-genome sequence typing of seven Sporothrix spp. strains from Brasília and Rio de Janeiro suggests that S. brasiliensis isolates from Brasília are genetically distinct from those obtained at the epicentre of the outbreak in Rio de Janeiro, both in phylogenomic and population genomic analyses. The two S. brasiliensis populations seem to have separated between 2.2 and 3.1 million years ago, indicating independent outbreaks or that the zoonotic S. brasiliensis outbreak might have started earlier and be more widespread in South America than previously recognized.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Eudes Filho
- Graduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Oscar Mauricio Gomez
- Cellular & Molecular Biology Unit, Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Sandro Antonio Pereira
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Heidi Mavengere
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | | | - Joaquim Lucas
- Graduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | - Laurício Monteiro Cruz
- Office of Environmental Surveillance of Zoonoses, Federal District Health Secretariat, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Juan G. McEwen
- Cellular & Molecular Biology Unit, Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Jason E. Stajich
- Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology and Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, USA
| | - Rodrigo Almeida-Paes
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel R. Matute
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Bridget M. Barker
- Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, USA
| | - Maria Sueli Soares Felipe
- Graduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
- Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Marcus de Melo Teixeira
- Graduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brazil
| | - André Moraes Nicola
- Graduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brazil
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Pimentel Sobrinho C, Lima Godoi J, Neves Souza F, Graco Zeppelini C, Espirito Santo V, Carvalho Santiago D, Sady Alves R, Khalil H, Carvalho Pereira T, Hanzen Pinna M, Begon M, Machado Cordeiro S, Neves Reis J, Costa F. Prevalence of Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) and Salmonella spp. with zoonotic potential in urban rats in Salvador, Brazil. Epidemiol Infect 2020; 149:e128. [PMID: 33213546 PMCID: PMC8167902 DOI: 10.1017/s095026882000285x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies evaluating the occurrence of enteropathogenic bacteria in urban rats (Rattus spp.) are scarce worldwide, specifically in the urban environments of tropical countries. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) and Salmonella spp. with zoonotic potential in urban slum environments. We trapped rats between April and June 2018 in Salvador, Brazil. We collected rectal swabs from Rattus spp., and cultured for E. coli and Salmonella spp., and screened E. coli isolates by polymerase chain reaction to identify pathotypes. E. coli were found in 70% of Rattus norvegicus and were found in four Rattus rattus. DEC were isolated in 31.3% of the 67 brown rats (R. norvegicus). The pathotypes detected more frequently were shiga toxin E. coli in 11.9%, followed by atypical enteropathogenic E. coli in 10.4% and enteroinvasive E. coli in 4.5%. From the five black rats (R. rattus), two presented DEC. Salmonella enterica was found in only one (1.4%) of 67 R. norvegicus. Our findings indicate that both R. norvegicus and R. rattus are host of DEC and, at lower prevalence, S. enterica, highlighting the importance of rodents as potential sources of pathogenic agents for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J. Lima Godoi
- Biology Institute, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | - F. Neves Souza
- Biology Institute, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | - V. Espirito Santo
- Collective Health Institute, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | - D. Carvalho Santiago
- Collective Health Institute, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | - R. Sady Alves
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | - H. Khalil
- Collective Health Institute, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| | - T. Carvalho Pereira
- Collective Health Institute, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | - M. Hanzen Pinna
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | - M. Begon
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - J. Neves Reis
- School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
| | - F. Costa
- Collective Health Institute, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Brazil
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Alfaro MAS, Raffo E, Bustos MI, Tomckowiack C, Tejeda C, Collado L, Medina-Vogel G. New insights on the infection of pathogenic Leptospira species in American mink (Neovison vison) in southern Chile. Trop Anim Health Prod 2020; 53:2. [PMID: 33196883 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-020-02469-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonosis of global distribution, caused by the infection of pathogenic Leptospira, a group of bacteria capable of infecting both domestic and wild animals. Mink (Neovison vison) in southern Chile is recognized as a wild and synanthropic rodent predator (among various other prey), and Leptospira infection in them can be acquired through contact with the pathogen in the environment or by eating infected prey. Thus, the aim of this study was to provide more specifics regarding the source of the infection for the American mink under the conditions of Southern Chile. Minks were captured in the Los Ríos region, southern Chile, in an area with well-developed dairy farming. Two areas were selected for mink trapping, one with a high degree of dairy farming and a second with a low degree of dairy farming. Within them, 16 study sites were visited, and 45 American mink were trapped and euthanized to obtain kidney tissue and blood serum samples for bacteria isolation and determination of antibodies titers, respectively. Molecular characterization of the isolated strains was performed. Three minks from sites of high-dairy farming industry and only one from sites with low-degree dairy farming were detected as infected through molecular confirmation. This study shows evidence that confirms previous findings made in southern Chile, regarding mink as host of Leptospira interrogans serovar Hardjo-prajitno associated to cattle-farming areas. However, typing information ( Leptospira interrogans Copenhageni and Icterohaemorrhagiae ) suggests that the consumption of rodents may also be a potential source of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Angel Salgado Alfaro
- Instituto de Medicina Preventiva Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
| | - Eduardo Raffo
- Servicio Agrícola Ganadero; Región de los Ríos, Valdivia, Chile
| | - María Isabel Bustos
- Instituto de Medicina Preventiva Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Camilo Tomckowiack
- Instituto de Medicina Preventiva Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Carlos Tejeda
- Instituto de Medicina Preventiva Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Luis Collado
- Instituto de Bioquímica y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Medina-Vogel
- Centro de Investigación para la Sustentabilidad, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
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Moseley M, Naidoo K, Bastos A, Retief L, Frean J, Telfer S, Rossouw J. Multi-locus sequence analyses reveal a clonal L. borgpetersenii genotype in a heterogeneous invasive Rattus spp. community across the City of Johannesburg, South Africa. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:570. [PMID: 33176846 PMCID: PMC7659165 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04444-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rattus spp. are frequently implicated as key reservoir hosts for leptospirosis, one of the most common, but neglected, bacterial zoonoses in the world. Although leptospirosis is predicted to be a significant public health threat in Africa, studies from the continent are limited. METHODS Rattus spp. (n = 171) were sampled (January-May 2016) across the City of Johannesburg, South Africa's largest inland metropole. Rattus spp. genetic diversity was evaluated by full length (1140 bp) cyt b sequencing of 42 samples. For comparison, a further 12 Rattus norvegicus samples collected in Cape Town, South Africa's largest coastal metropole, were also genotyped. Leptospira infections were identified and genotyped using real-time PCR and multi-locus (lfb1, secY and lipL41) DNA sequencing. RESULTS Five R. norvegicus haplotypes were identified across Johannesburg, four of which have not previously been detected in South Africa, and one in Cape Town. Across Johannesburg we identified a Leptospira spp. infection prevalence of 44% (75/171) and noted significant differences in the prevalence between administrative regions within the metropole. Multi-locus sequence analyses identified a clonal genotype consistent with L. borgpetersenii serogroup Javanica (serovar Ceylonica). DISCUSSION The prevalence of infection identified in this study is amongst the highest detected in Rattus spp. in similar contexts across Africa. Despite the complex invasion history suggested by the heterogeneity in R. norvegicus haplotypes identified in Johannesburg, a single L. borgpetersenii genotype was identified in all infected rodents. The lack of L. interrogans in a rodent community dominated by R. norvegicus is notable, given the widely recognised host-pathogen association between these species and evidence for L. interrogans infection in R. norvegicus in Cape Town. It is likely that environmental conditions (cold, dry winters) in Johannesburg may limit the transmission of L. interrogans. Spatial heterogeneity in prevalence suggest that local factors, such as land use, influence disease risk in the metropole. CONCLUSIONS In South Africa, as in other African countries, leptospirosis is likely underdiagnosed. The high prevalence of infection in urban rodents in Johannesburg suggest that further work is urgently needed to understand the potential public health risk posed by this neglected zoonotic pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Moseley
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Kovashnee Naidoo
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Division of National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Armanda Bastos
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Liezl Retief
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - John Frean
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Division of National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Wits Research Institute for Malaria, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sandra Telfer
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Jennifer Rossouw
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Division of National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Mukarati NL, Matope G, de Garine-Wichatitsky M, Ndhlovu DN, Caron A, Pfukenyi DM. The pattern of anthrax at the wildlife-livestock-human interface in Zimbabwe. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008800. [PMID: 33075049 PMCID: PMC7595623 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Anthrax is an important but neglected zoonosis in southern Africa and elsewhere which occurs naturally in herbivorous wildlife and livestock. Fatal outbreaks in animals are spaced by potentially extended periods of non-activity during which the bacterium is maintained in soil. The ecology of the pathogen in the multi-host system and the environment is still not fully understood. This study investigated the patterns of anthrax in Zimbabwe in order to better understand the occurrence of disease in susceptible wildlife and livestock and hence its control. The study used available data in governmental reports between 1995 and 2018 and structured interviewer-administered questionnaires of local communities in three porous wildlife-livestock-human interface sites where livestock/wildlife interactions were documented from previous researches. Two non-interface sites were also included for comparison based on known previous anthrax outbreaks. Respondents from non-interface sites had significantly higher odds (χ2 = 23.2, OR = 3.5, 2.1<OR<5.8, p<0.001) of reporting anthrax outbreaks than their counterparts at the interface. Overall 20.0% (74/372) of the respondents reported that some anthrax carcasses were left to dissipate into the environment indicating a risk of environmental contamination. In livestock a total of 214 outbreaks with 2911 losses (mainly cattle) were recorded between 2000 and 2018, while 10 outbreaks with 3171 deaths were noted in wildlife. In humans 99 outbreaks were recorded involving 903 individual cases with 16 fatalities due to enteric infections following the consumption of infected meat between 2010 and 2018. Since its first incidence in wildlife in 2004–2005 in the south-eastern Lowveld of Zimbabwe, anthrax appears to be establishing endemic status along the Zambezi River basin. The disease has expanded spatially affecting 45 (72.6%) of the country’s 62 rural districts in a single decade. Thus, robust multi-disciplinary efforts are encouraged for surveillance and disease containment measures to minimize its impact on livestock, wildlife and humans. Anthrax is an expanding zoonotic and tropical disease which negatively impacts livestock, wildlife and human health ultimately impacting livelihoods and biodiversity conservation. In this work we have shown it to be a serious disease in Zimbabwe where its surveillance and control are sub-optimum even though it is causing serious losses in animals and human health. Observed practices such as the non-burial of infected carcasses subsequently contaminating the environment following anthrax outbreaks in animals, have most likely contributed to its expansion in geographic range and the increase in frequency of outbreaks. Since the late 1970s, the disease status has changed from that causing a low-level mortality in livestock, probably due to underreporting, to a common disease in livestock, wildlife and humans. It is hoped that by quantifying the impact of the disease across livestock, wildlife and human health and livelihoods, and establishing factors responsible for its continued expansion, adequate resources for surveillance and containment of anthrax will be allocated in order to improve rural livelihoods and also enhance wildlife conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman L. Mukarati
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Zimbabwe, Mt. Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
- * E-mail:
| | - Gift Matope
- Department of Paraclinical Veterinary Studies, Faculty of Veterinary science, University of Zimbabwe, Mt. Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Michel de Garine-Wichatitsky
- ASTRE, CIRAD, INRA, Univ. de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Bangkok, Thailand
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Daud N. Ndhlovu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Zimbabwe, Mt. Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Alexandre Caron
- ASTRE, CIRAD, INRA, Univ. de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- CIRAD, RP-PCP, UMR ASTRE, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Davies M. Pfukenyi
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Zimbabwe, Mt. Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Peterson B, Barnes AN. Feline-Human Zoonosis Transmission in North Africa: A Systematic Review. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2020; 20:731-744. [PMID: 32706618 PMCID: PMC7526296 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2019.2591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Throughout human history, domestic animal species have represented a unique zoonotic disease risk for the transmission of pathogens ranging from viral, bacterial, parasitic, and fungal. In North Africa, cats have a particularly long record and occupy a specialized niche within many communities. This systematic review was conducted to analyze the current and historical literature documenting the breadth and variety of zoonoses in North Africa, specifically relating to the domesticated feline. Multiple electronic databases were searched on January 16, 2019, for published reports on feline zoonoses in North Africa. A total of 76 studies met the inclusion criteria for a full assessment. Articles selected for the review ranged in publication dates from 1939 to 2019 and included a case study, cross-sectional surveys, genomic analyses, and a book chapter. The most commonly studied pathogen was Toxoplasma gondii (n = 17) followed by a variety of helminths (n = 10). Of the countries in the target region, most publications were of studies conducted in Egypt (n = 53) followed by Tunisia (n = 12), Algeria (n = 11), Morocco (n = 5), and Libya (n = 3). The results of this review identify a variety of viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic zoonotic diseases associated with cats in North Africa, ranging from historically endemic diseases in both human and animal populations in the region, to emerging infections with recent confirmatory diagnoses. This review describes reported feline zoonoses in North Africa and provides recommendations for their prevention and control. In addition to vaccination campaigns for domesticated felines and postexposure prophylaxis for humans, prompt veterinary and medical care of exposure risks and subsequent infections are essential in limiting the zoonotic disease burden in North African communities of humans and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breck Peterson
- Department of Public Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Amber N. Barnes
- Department of Public Health, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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Dell BM, Souza MJ, Willcox AS. Attitudes, practices, and zoonoses awareness of community members involved in the bushmeat trade near Murchison Falls National Park, northern Uganda. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239599. [PMID: 32986741 PMCID: PMC7521682 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The harvest of bushmeat is widespread in the tropics and sub-tropics. Often in these communities, there is a dependence on bushmeat for both food security and basic income. Despite the importance of bushmeat for households worldwide, the practice raises concern for transmission of zoonotic pathogens through hunting, food preparation, and consumption. In Uganda, harvest of wildlife is illegal, but bushmeat hunting, is commonplace. We interviewed 292 women who cook for their households and 180 self-identified hunters from 21 villages bordering Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda to gain insights into bushmeat preferences, opportunity for zoonotic pathogen transmission, and awareness of common wildlife-associated zoonoses. Both hunters and women who cook considered primates to be the most likely wildlife species to carry diseases humans can catch. Among common zoonotic pathogens, the greatest proportions of women who cook and hunters believed that pathogens causing stomach ache or diarrhea and monkeypox can be transmitted by wildlife. Neither women who cook nor hunters report being frequently injury during cooking, butchering, or hunting, and few report taking precautions while handling bushmeat. The majority of women who cook believe that hunters and dealers never or rarely disguise primate meat as another kind of meat in market, while the majority of hunters report that they usually disguise primate meat as another kind of meat. These data play a crucial role in our understanding of potential for exposure to and infection with zoonotic pathogens in the bushmeat trade. Expanding our knowledge of awareness, perceptions and risks enables us to identify opportunities to mitigate infections and injury risk and promote safe handling practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- BreeAnna M. Dell
- Department of Biomedical & Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Marcy J. Souza
- Department of Biomedical & Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Adam S. Willcox
- Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
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Wainaina M, Aboge GO, Omwenga I, Ngaywa C, Ngwili N, Kiara H, Wamwere-Njoroge G, Bett B. Detection of Brucella spp. in raw milk from various livestock species raised under pastoral production systems in Isiolo and Marsabit Counties, northern Kenya. Trop Anim Health Prod 2020; 52:3537-3544. [PMID: 32948966 PMCID: PMC7606284 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-020-02389-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease in Kenya, and identifying the bacteria in milk is important in assessing the risk of exposure in people. Methods A cross-sectional study that involved 175 households was implemented in the pastoral counties of Marsabit and Isiolo in Kenya. Pooled milk samples (n = 164) were collected at the household level, and another 372 were collected from domesticated lactating animals (312 goats, 7 sheep, 50 cattle and 3 camels). Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) testing of the milk samples was performed to identify Brucella species. Brucella anti-LPS IgG antibodies were also detected in bovine milk samples using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results Based on the qPCR, the prevalence of the pathogen at the animal level (considering samples from individual animals) was 2.4% (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1–4.5) and 3.0% (CI: 1.0–7.0) in pooled samples. All 14 samples found positive by qPCR were from goats, with 10 contaminated with B. abortus and 4 with B. melitensis. The Brucella spp. antibody prevalence in bovine milk using the milk ELISA was 26.0% (95% CI: 14.6–40.3) in individual animal samples and 46.3% (95% CI: 30.7–62.6) in pooled samples. Conclusion The study is the first in Kenya to test for Brucella spp. directly from milk using qPCR without culturing for the bacteria. It also detected B. abortus in goats, suggesting transmission of brucellosis between cattle and goats. The high prevalence of Brucella spp. is a significant public health risk, and there is a need for intervention strategies necessary in the study area. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s11250-020-02389-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriel O Aboge
- Department of Public Health Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Isaac Omwenga
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Public Health Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Catherine Ngaywa
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Henry Kiara
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
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Dhaka P, Malik SVS, Yadav JP, Kumar M, Barbuddhe SB, Rawool DB. Apparent prevalence and risk factors of coxiellosis (Q fever) among dairy herds in India. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239260. [PMID: 32931511 PMCID: PMC7491716 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii is a highly infectious zoonotic pathogen infecting wide range of mammals, including humans. In the present study, a total of 711 blood samples from bovines [cattle (n = 543) and buffaloes (n = 168)] from eight farms at different geographical locations in India were screened for C. burnetii targeting the IS1111 and the com1 genes. The anti-C. burnetii antibodies in serum samples were detected using indirect-ELISA kits. Also, a total of 21 parameters pertaining to animal health and farm management were identified to assess their role as possible risk factors for coxiellosis among the targeted farms. The apparent prevalence (positive for PCR and/or ELISA) for coxiellosis was reported to be 24.5% in cattle and 8.9% in buffaloes. In cattle, the detection rate of C. burnetii employing the IS1111 gene (8.5%) was found to be significantly higher (p<0.05) as compared to the com1 (6.5%) gene. The seropositivity by ELISA was higher among cattle (17.7%) than in buffaloes (8.3%). Further, on univariable analysis of risk factors, species (cattle) (OR:3.31; 95%CI:1.88–5.82), inadequate floor spacing (OR:1.64; 95%CI:1.10–2.43), mastitis (OR:2.35, 95%CI:1.45–3.81) and reproductive disorders (OR:2.54; 95%CI:1.67–3.85) were significantly (p<0.05) having high odds for coxiellosis. The multivariable logistic regression analysis of the animal level risk factors revealed that species and age were found to be significantly associated with coxiellosis. However, since the number of screened farms is limited; further research is needed with a higher number of animals to confirm the farm level odds ratio of risk factors. Quarantine and biosecurity measures including farm hygiene operations were observed to be inadequate and also the lack of awareness about coxiellosis among the farm workers. In absence of vaccination program for coxiellosis in India, robust surveillance, farm biosecurity measures and the awareness for the disease among risk groups can play an important role in the disease prevention and subsequent transmission of the pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Dhaka
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India
| | - Satya Veer Singh Malik
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India
| | - Jay Prakash Yadav
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India
| | - Manesh Kumar
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India
| | | | - Deepak B. Rawool
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Modeling the behavior of zoonotic pandemic threats is a key component of their control. Many emerging zoonoses, such as SARS, Nipah, and Hendra, mutated from their wild type while circulating in an intermediate host population, usually a domestic species, to become more transmissible among humans, and this transmission route will only become more likely as agriculture and trade intensifies around the world. Passage through an intermediate host enables many otherwise rare diseases to become better adapted to humans, and so understanding this process with accurate mathematical models is necessary to prevent epidemics of emerging zoonoses, guide policy interventions in public health, and predict the behavior of an epidemic. In this paper, we account for a zoonotic disease mutating in an intermediate host by introducing a new mathematical model for disease transmission among three species. We present a model of these disease dynamics, including the equilibria of the system and the basic reproductive number of the pathogen, finding that in the presence of biologically realistic interspecies transmission parameters, a zoonotic disease with the capacity to mutate in an intermediate host population can establish itself in humans even if its R0 in humans is less than 1. This result and model can be used to predict the behavior of any zoonosis with an intermediate host and assist efforts to protect public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Royce
- Dartmouth College Mathematics Department, Hanover, NH, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Feng Fu
- Dartmouth College Mathematics Department, Hanover, NH, United States of America
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Hermesh B, Rosenthal A, Davidovitch N. The cycle of distrust in health policy and behavior: Lessons learned from the Negev Bedouin. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237734. [PMID: 32817681 PMCID: PMC7446867 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Over the last decades, health systems worldwide have faced a decline in public trust. For marginalized minority populations, who generally suffer from poverty and political exclusion, the roots of this trend go much deeper, establishing a state of bi-directional distrust between them and health institutions. Although studied to a lesser extent compared to trust, distrust does impede health initiatives, such as infectious diseases prevention programs, mostly of so-called Neglected Zoonotic Diseases (NZDs). Where distrust prevails, even trust building actions such as defining rights and obligations, prioritizing “the greater good” and increasing transparency, are prone to failure. In this study, we deepen the understanding of the concept of distrust through a unique case study of Brucellosis, a prevalent bacterial zoonotic disease endemic to disadvantaged Bedouin communities in southern Israel. Methods In the years 2015–2019, we qualitatively studied socio-political aspects in a governmental Brucellosis control campaign in southern Israel. We used in-depth interviews with 38 governmental and private health workers, agriculture and nature preservation workers, livestock owners and community leaders. Further, we conducted participant observation in 10 livestock pens and in policymaking meetings, and collected policy and media documents in order to triangulate the results. Results We conceptualize three different types of distrust between authorities and marginalized communities—“intention-based distrust”, “values-based distrust” and “circular distrust”—to better explain how distrust originates and reinforces itself, reproducing the endemicity of NZDs. Based on that, we portray a practical framework to reduce distrust in health policies, by reframing local discourses, reshaping disease monitoring schemes from enforcement-based to participation-based, and promoting political inclusion of disadvantaged communities. Conclusions The suggested analysis and framework redirect health policy objectives to not only acknowledge, contain and reduce the consequences of distrust, but also to strive for societal justice as a tool for health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barak Hermesh
- Department of Health Systems Management, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
- * E-mail:
| | - Anat Rosenthal
- Department of Health Systems Management, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Nadav Davidovitch
- Department of Health Systems Management, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
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Milovic A, Bassam K, Shao H, Chatzistamou I, Tufts DM, Diuk-Wasser M, Barbour AG. Lactobacilli and other gastrointestinal microbiota of Peromyscus leucopus, reservoir host for agents of Lyme disease and other zoonoses in North America. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231801. [PMID: 32817657 PMCID: PMC7446861 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The cricetine rodent Peromyscus leucopus is an important reservoir for several human zoonoses, including Lyme disease, in North America. Akin to hamsters, the white-footed deermouse has been unevenly characterized in comparison to the murid Mus musculus. To further understanding of P. leucopus’ total genomic content, we investigated gut microbiomes of an outbred colony of P. leucopus, inbred M. musculus, and a natural population of P. leucopus. Metagenome and whole genome sequencing were combined with microbiology and microscopy approaches. A focus was the genus Lactobacillus, four diverse species of which were isolated from forestomach and feces of colony P. leucopus. Three of the species—L. animalis, L. reuteri, and provisionally-named species “L. peromysci”—were identified in fecal metagenomes of wild P. leucopus but not discernibly in samples from M. musculus. L. johnsonii, the fourth species, was common in M. musculus but absent or sparse in wild P. leucopus. Also identified in both colony and natural populations were a Helicobacter sp. in feces but not stomach, and a Tritrichomonas sp. protozoan in cecum or feces. The gut metagenomes of colony P. leucopus were similar to those of colony M. musculus at the family or higher level and for major subsystems. But there were multiple differences between species and sexes within each species in their gut metagenomes at orthologous gene level. These findings provide a foundation for hypothesis-testing of functions of individual microbial species and for interventions, such as bait vaccines based on an autochthonous bacterium and targeting P. leucopus for transmission-blocking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Milovic
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Khalil Bassam
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hanjuan Shao
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Ioulia Chatzistamou
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Danielle M. Tufts
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Maria Diuk-Wasser
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Alan G. Barbour
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Paiva MT, de Oliveira CSF, Nicolino RR, Bastos CV, Lecca LO, de Azevedo MI, Keller KM, Salvato LA, Brandão ST, de Oliveira HMR, Morais MHF, Ecco R, Lech AJZ, Haddad JPA, de Magalhães Soares DF. Spatial association between sporotrichosis in cats and in human during a Brazilian epidemics. Prev Vet Med 2020; 183:105125. [PMID: 32891900 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.105125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous granulomatous disease caused by the fungus Sporothrix spp. In Brazil, S. brasiliensis is reported in regions of outbreaks and epidemics in the zoonotic form of the disease where cats play an important role in the transmission of the disease to humans. Therefore, it is important to assess how the presence of infected cats impacts the risk for sporotrichosis in humans. The objective of this study was to analyze the spatial association of sporotrichosis in cats and in humans from Belo Horizonte, a Brazilian city where an epidemics of sporotrichosis occurs since the first human case register in 2015, through an inhomogeneous Poisson process model. Feline and human cases of sporotrichosis recorded between January 2016 and June 2019 were georeferenced by address and spatial point patterns were generated. Feline case intensity and human demographic density were calculated using a kernel smoothed estimate. The distance to the nearest feline case was also compute. Model parameters were estimated by Maximum Likelihood Estimate. The model validation was performed by the evaluation of partial residual, leverage and influence measure. There were 343 cases of cats and 135 human cases of sporotrichosis. The average incidence of human sporotrichosis in the period was 1.343 per 100 thousand inhabitants, which is relatively low in relation to the population, but higher than that observed in other regions in zoonotic outbreak of the disease. The southern region of the municipality has a higher intensity of feline cases. According to the fitted model, the risk for human sporotrichosis is greater when at distances very close to a feline case, with a virtually stable effect for distances greater than 1 km. Regarding the intensity of feline cases there is a gradual increase in risk as the intensity of cases increases. From the leverage analysis it was observed that the model was particularly sensitive to the occurrence of human cases in the south and east regions, places with extreme values of covariates. Poisson point process model seems to be a reasonable approach in spatial epidemiology when multiple sources of infection are involved, and there is a low incidence of the disease as long as it is reasonable to assume independence between cases. Interventions for disease prevention and control in humans are suggested to encompass disease control in cats and the search for feline cases, focused on diagnosis and control, close to reported human cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Teixeira Paiva
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Camila Stefanie Fonseca de Oliveira
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rafael Romero Nicolino
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Camila Valgas Bastos
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lívian Otávio Lecca
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Maria Isabel de Azevedo
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Kelly Moura Keller
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lauranne Alves Salvato
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Silvana Tecles Brandão
- Secretaria Municipal da Saúde, Prefeitura Municipal de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Helena Franco Morais
- Secretaria Municipal da Saúde, Prefeitura Municipal de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Roselene Ecco
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária. Escola de Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Anna Julia Zilli Lech
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - João Paulo Amaral Haddad
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Jinnerot T, Tomaselli ATP, Johannessen GS, Söderlund R, Urdahl AM, Aspán A, Sekse C. The prevalence and genomic context of Shiga toxin 2a genes in E. coli found in cattle. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0232305. [PMID: 32785271 PMCID: PMC7423110 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0232305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) that cause severe disease predominantly carry the toxin gene variant stx2a. However, the role of Shiga toxin in the ruminant reservoirs of this zoonotic pathogen is poorly understood and strains that cause severe disease in humans (HUSEC) likely constitute a small and atypical subset of the overall STEC flora. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of stx2a in samples from cattle and to isolate and characterize stx2a-positive E. coli. In nationwide surveys in Sweden and Norway samples were collected from individual cattle or from cattle herds, respectively. Samples were tested for Shiga toxin genes by real-time PCR and amplicon sequencing and stx2a-positive isolates were whole genome sequenced. Among faecal samples from Sweden, stx1 was detected in 37%, stx2 in 53% and stx2a in 5% and in skin (ear) samples in 64%, 79% and 2% respectively. In Norway, 79% of the herds were positive for stx1, 93% for stx2 and 17% for stx2a. Based on amplicon sequencing the most common stx2 types in samples from Swedish cattle were stx2a and stx2d. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) of 39 stx2a-positive isolates collected from both countries revealed substantial diversity with 19 different sequence types. Only a few classical LEE-positive strains similar to HUSEC were found among the stx2a-positive isolates, notably a single O121:H19 and an O26:H11. Lineages known to include LEE-negative HUSEC were also recovered including, such as O113:H21 (sequence type ST-223), O130:H11 (ST-297), and O101:H33 (ST-330). We conclude that E. coli encoding stx2a in cattle are ranging from strains similar to HUSEC to unknown STEC variants. Comparison of isolates from human HUS cases to related STEC from the ruminant reservoirs can help identify combinations of virulence attributes necessary to cause HUS, as well as provide a better understanding of the routes of infection for rare and emerging pathogenic STEC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Anna Aspán
- National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
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Krijger IM, Ahmed AAA, Goris MGA, Cornelissen JBWJ, Groot Koerkamp PWG, Meerburg BG. Wild rodents and insectivores as carriers of pathogenic Leptospira and Toxoplasma gondii in The Netherlands. Vet Med Sci 2020; 6:623-630. [PMID: 32134214 PMCID: PMC7397885 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Small mammals such as rodents can to carry zoonotic pathogens. Currently, there is impaired knowledge on zoonotic pathogens in rodents and insectivores in the Netherlands. This limits opportunities for preventive measures and complicates risk-assessments for zoonotic transmission to humans. Leptospira spp. and Toxoplasma gondii are present on a list of prioritized emerging pathogens in the Netherlands and were therefore the focus of this study. Both pathogens have the ability to survive under moist environmental conditions. In total, a group of 379 small mammals (rodents & insectivores) were tested on pathogenic Leptospira spp., and 312 on T. gondii. Rodents and insectivores were trapped at various sites, but mostly on pig and dairy farms throughout the country. Over five percent of the animals (5.3%, n = 379) tested positive for Leptospira DNA, and five of the animals (1.6%, n = 312) tested were positive for T. gondii DNA. The animals positive for T.gondii were all brown rats and the ones for Leptospira spp. were various species. Our results show that insectivores and rodents might be used as an indicator for the environmental contamination and/or the contamination in wildlife for Leptospira spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge M. Krijger
- Wageningen University & Research , Livestock ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
- Farm Technology GroupWageningen University & ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
| | - Ahmed A. A. Ahmed
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyOIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL) Academic Medical CentreUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Maria G. A. Goris
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyOIE and National Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Leptospirosis (NRL) Academic Medical CentreUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | | | - Bastiaan G. Meerburg
- Wageningen University & Research , Livestock ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
- Dutch Pest and Wildlife Expertise Centre (KAD)WageningenThe Netherlands
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Gamage CD, Sato Y, Kimura R, Yamashiro T, Toma C. Understanding leptospirosis eco-epidemiology by environmental DNA metabarcoding of irrigation water from two agro-ecological regions of Sri Lanka. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008437. [PMID: 32701971 PMCID: PMC7377381 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leptospirosis is one of the most significant zoonoses across the world not only because of its impact on human and animal health but also because of the economic and social impact on agrarian communities. Leptospirosis is endemic in Sri Lanka where paddy farming activities, the use of draught animals in agriculture, and peridomestic animals in urban and rural areas play important roles in maintaining the infection cycle of pathogenic Leptospira, especially concerning animals as a potential reservoir. In this study, an environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding methodology was applied in two different agro-ecological regions of Sri Lanka to understand the eco-epidemiology of leptospirosis. Methodology/Principal findings Irrigation water samples were collected in Kandy District (wet zone mid-country region 2) and Girandurukotte, Badulla District (intermediate zone low-country region 2); and analysed for the presence of pathogenic Leptospira, associated microbiome and the potential reservoir animals. Briefly, we generated PCR products for high-throughput sequencing of multiple amplicons through next-generation sequencing. The analysis of eDNA showed different environmental microbiomes in both regions and a higher diversity of Leptospira species circulating in Kandy than in Girandurukotte. Moreover, the number of sequence reads of pathogenic Leptospira species associated with clinical cases such as L. interrogans was higher in Kandy than in Girandurukotte. Kandy also showed more animal species associated with pathogenic bacterial species than Girandurukotte. Finally, several pathogenic bacterial species including Arcobacter cryaerophilus, responsible for abortion in animals, was shown to be associated with pathogenic Leptospira. Conclusions/Significance Leptospirosis has been considered to be endemic in wet regions, consistently, leptospiral sequences were detected strongly in Kandy. The great Leptospira species diversity in Kandy observed in this study shows that the etiological agents of leptospirosis in Sri Lanka might be underestimated. Furthermore, our eDNA metabarcoding can be used to discriminate bacterial and animal species diversity in different regions and to explore environmental microbiomes to identify other associated bacterial pathogens in the environment. Leptospirosis is a widespread bacterial zoonosis with increasing importance due to its vast range of reservoir hosts. Early symptoms are shared by other infectious diseases common in tropical and sub-tropical regions, where the real burden and risk factors need to be known. In Sri Lanka, leptospirosis is mostly an occupational disease associated with freshwater or animal exposure in agriculture communities. Thus, there is a need for understanding the epidemiology of leptospirosis in agrarian regions of the country for developing better prevention and intervention strategies. In this study, we applied an environmental DNA metabarcoding methodology to understand the environmental microbiome, potential reservoir animals and the Leptospira species circulating in two different agro-ecological regions of Sri Lanka: Kandy (wet region mid-country region 2) and Girandurukotte (intermediate region low-country region 2). It is known that pathogenic Leptospira are excreted through the urine of reservoir animals in the environment, where they can persist in humid conditions. Congruently, this study showed a higher detection of pathogenic Leptospira in the environment of Kandy where the environmental microbiome showed a higher diversity than Girandurukotte. Potential animal reservoirs were also detected in samples positive for pathogenic Leptospira, suggesting that environmental DNA metabarcoding can provide important information for management and intervention strategies to control leptospirosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandika D. Gamage
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka
| | - Yukuto Sato
- Center for Strategic Research Project, Organization for Research Promotion, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
- * E-mail: (YS); (CT)
| | - Ryosuke Kimura
- Department of Human Biology and Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Tetsu Yamashiro
- Department of Bacteriology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Claudia Toma
- Department of Bacteriology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
- * E-mail: (YS); (CT)
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Nau LH, Obiegala A, Król N, Mayer-Scholl A, Pfeffer M. Survival time of Leptospira kirschneri serovar Grippotyphosa under different environmental conditions. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0236007. [PMID: 32668449 PMCID: PMC7363454 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0236007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a re-emerging zoonotic disease of high medical importance that affects humans worldwide. Humans or animals acquire an infection with pathogenic leptospires either by direct contact with infected animals or by indirect contact to contaminated environment. Survival of Leptospira spp. in the environment after having been shed via animal urine is thus a key factor to estimate the risk of infection, but not much is known about the tenacity of pathogenic leptospires. Here, the survival time of both a laboratory strain and a field strain of L. kirschneri serovar Grippotyphosa in animal urine and their tenacity while drying was investigated and compared at different temperatures (15°C-37°C). Leptospira spp. are also often found in rivers and ponds. As the infection risk for humans and animals also depends on the spreading and survival of Leptospira spp. in these environments, the survival of L. kirschneri serovar Grippotyphosa was investigated using a 50-meter-long hose system simulating a water stream. Both strains did not survive in undiluted cattle or dog urine. Comparing different temperatures and dilution media, the laboratory strain survived the longest in diluted cattle urine with a slightly alkaline pH value (3 days), whilst the field strain survived in diluted dog urine with a slightly acid pH value up to a maximum of 24 h. Both strains did not survive drying on a solid surface. In a water stream, leptospires were able to move faster or slower than the average velocity of the water due to their intrinsic mobility but were not able to survive the mechanical damage caused by running water in the hose system. From our results we conclude, that once excreted via animal urine, the leptospires immediately need moisture or a water body to survive and stay infectious.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. H. Nau
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - A. Obiegala
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - N. Król
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - A. Mayer-Scholl
- Department Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - M. Pfeffer
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Xu G, Wielstra B, Rich SM. Northern and southern blacklegged (deer) ticks are genetically distinct with different histories and Lyme spirochete infection rates. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10289. [PMID: 32581236 PMCID: PMC7314838 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67259-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Lyme borreliosis (LB) is the archetypal emerging zoonosis and is dependent on transmission by ticks in the genus Ixodes. Understanding the origin, maintenance, and spread of these ticks contributes much to our understanding of the spread of LB and other disease agents borne by these ticks. We collected 1232 Ixodes scapularis ticks from 17 east coast sites ranging from New Hampshire to Florida and used mtDNA, three nuclear genetic loci, and incorporated Bayesian analyses to resolve geographically distinct tick populations and compare their demographic histories. A sparse, stable, and genetically diverse population of ticks in the Southeastern US, that is rarely infected with the agent of LB is genetically distinct from an abundant, expanding, and comparatively uniform population in the Northeast, where epidemic LB now constitutes the most important vector borne disease in the United States. The contrasting geography and demography of tick populations, interpreted in the context of the geological history of the region, suggests that during the last glacial period such ticks occupied distinct refugia, with only the northern-most site of refuge giving rise to those ticks and pathogens now fueling the epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Xu
- Department of Microbiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, United States of America.
| | - Ben Wielstra
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Stephen M Rich
- Department of Microbiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, United States of America
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Edwards RL, Heueck I, Lee SG, Shah IT, Miller JJ, Jezewski AJ, Mikati MO, Wang X, Brothers RC, Heidel KM, Osbourn DM, Burnham CAD, Alvarez S, Fritz SA, Dowd CS, Jez JM, Odom John AR. Potent, specific MEPicides for treatment of zoonotic staphylococci. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1007806. [PMID: 32497104 PMCID: PMC7297381 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Coagulase-positive staphylococci, which frequently colonize the mucosal surfaces of animals, also cause a spectrum of opportunistic infections including skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and bacteremia. However, recent advances in bacterial identification have revealed that these common veterinary pathogens are in fact zoonoses that cause serious infections in human patients. The global spread of multidrug-resistant zoonotic staphylococci, in particular the emergence of methicillin-resistant organisms, is now a serious threat to both animal and human welfare. Accordingly, new therapeutic targets that can be exploited to combat staphylococcal infections are urgently needed. Enzymes of the methylerythritol phosphate pathway (MEP) of isoprenoid biosynthesis represent potential targets for treating zoonotic staphylococci. Here we demonstrate that fosmidomycin (FSM) inhibits the first step of the isoprenoid biosynthetic pathway catalyzed by deoxyxylulose phosphate reductoisomerase (DXR) in staphylococci. In addition, we have both enzymatically and structurally determined the mechanism by which FSM elicits its effect. Using a forward genetic screen, the glycerol-3-phosphate transporter GlpT that facilitates FSM uptake was identified in two zoonotic staphylococci, Staphylococcus schleiferi and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. A series of lipophilic ester prodrugs (termed MEPicides) structurally related to FSM were synthesized, and data indicate that the presence of the prodrug moiety not only substantially increased potency of the inhibitors against staphylococci but also bypassed the need for GlpT-mediated cellular transport. Collectively, our data indicate that the prodrug MEPicides selectively and robustly inhibit DXR in zoonotic staphylococci, and further, that DXR represents a promising, druggable target for future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L. Edwards
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Isabel Heueck
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Soon Goo Lee
- University of North Carolina-Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Ishaan T. Shah
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Justin J. Miller
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Andrew J. Jezewski
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Marwa O. Mikati
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Chemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Robert C. Brothers
- Department of Chemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Kenneth M. Heidel
- Department of Chemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Damon M. Osbourn
- Department of Chemistry, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Carey-Ann D. Burnham
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Sophie Alvarez
- Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Stephanie A. Fritz
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Cynthia S. Dowd
- Department of Chemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Joseph M. Jez
- Department of Biology, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Audrey R. Odom John
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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Abstract
Brucellosis is a bacterial endemic zoonotic disease of global significance with detrimental impacts on public health and food animal production. It is caused by Brucella spp., an expanding group of pathogens able to infect various host species. Bovines and small ruminants, which excrete the bacteria in milk and in reproductive discharges, are major sources of infection for humans and other animals. Contact with contaminated animals and consumption of unpasteurized dairy products are the main routes for human infection. In spite of the considerable progress of knowledge gained and success achieved in brucellosis control in the developed world, this disease continues to be an important burden in the Middle East (ME). Common risk factors implicated in the difficulty and complexity of brucellosis control within the region include (1) social and political instabilities; (2) insufficient resources and infrastructure for appropriate diagnosis, reporting, and implementation of control measures; (3) variation of livestock husbandry systems and their commingling with other livestock and wildlife; and (4) traditional cultural practices, including consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. Development of core interdisciplinary competencies is required for a true One Health–based endeavor against the disease. National awareness and educational programs addressing all population sectors from consumers to decision-makers seem to be the next logical, sustainable, and economically viable approach toward improving disease status in this region. In the present review, we describe the current situation of brucellosis in the ME, focusing on the major limitations and shortcomings regarding disease control. We propose a regional approach toward public awareness of brucellosis as the first step in mitigating the disease and discuss the potential benefits, and components of such a strategy, which can further be used as a model for other endemic zoonotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Bagheri Nejad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Bacterial Vaccines, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran
| | - Rosina C. Krecek
- Independent Scholar, Texas, United States of America
- University of Johannesburg, Department of Zoology, Auckland Park, South Africa
| | - Omar H. Khalaf
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Veterinary Pathology & Poultry Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Nabil Hailat
- Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Angela M. Arenas-Gamboa
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Santaniello A, Sansone M, Fioretti A, Menna LF. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Occurrence of ESKAPE Bacteria Group in Dogs, and the Related Zoonotic Risk in Animal-Assisted Therapy, and in Animal-Assisted Activity in the Health Context. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17093278. [PMID: 32397230 PMCID: PMC7246456 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Animal-assisted interventions are widely implemented in different contexts worldwide. Particularly, animal-assisted therapies and animal-assisted activities are often implemented in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and other health facilities. These interventions bring several benefits to patients but can also expose them to the risk of infection with potentially zoonotic agents. The dog is the main animal species involved used in these interventions. Therefore, we aimed at collecting data regarding the occurrence of the pathogens ESKAPE (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter spp.) in dogs, in order to draft guidelines concerning the possible monitoring of dogs involved in animal-assisted therapies and animal-assisted activities in healthcare facilities. We performed a literature search using the PRISMA guidelines to examine three databases: PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. Out of 2604 records found, 52 papers were identified as eligible for inclusion in the review/meta-analysis. Sixteen papers reported data on E. faecium; 16 on S. aureus; nine on K. pneumoniae; four on A. baumannii; eight on P. aeruginosa; and six on Enterobacter spp. This work will contribute to increased awareness to the potential zoonotic risks posed by the involvement of dogs in animal-assisted therapies, and animal-assisted activities in healthcare facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Santaniello
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, Federico II University of Naples, 80134 Naples, Italy; (A.F.); (L.F.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-253-6134
| | - Mario Sansone
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Federico II University of Naples, 80125 Naples, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Fioretti
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, Federico II University of Naples, 80134 Naples, Italy; (A.F.); (L.F.M.)
| | - Lucia Francesca Menna
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, Federico II University of Naples, 80134 Naples, Italy; (A.F.); (L.F.M.)
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