Risk Of Zoonotic Transmission Research Articles

Epidemiological study of gastrointestinal helminths among dogs from Northeastern Nigeria: a potential public health concern.

Understanding the epidemiology of canine parasitic infections, gastrointestinal helminthic infections in particular, is crucial for designing an efficient control programs targeted at minimizing the risks of zoonotic transmission. A total of 470 dogs attending veterinary clinics in Northeastern Nigeria were screened for gastrointestinal helminths using standard parasitological techniques. Epidemiological risk factors associated with the canine parasitic infections were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. In total, 77.9% (366/470) of dogs had harboured one or more species of the gastrointestinal helminths: Ancylostoma caninum (40.2%), Toxocara canis (35.1%) Trichuris vulpis (26.6%), Spirocerca lupi (5.7%), Taenia/Echinococcus (12.3%), Dipylidium caninum (10.9%) and Diphyllobothriid ova (2.8%). Female dogs (OR=2.1; p=0.02), local breeds (OR=2.3; p<0.01), younger dogs (OR=3.2; p<0.001), dogs adopted as security guards (OR=1.8; p<0.01) and poor body condition score (OR=3.1; p<0.001) were strongly associated with A. caninum infection. For T. canis and T. vulpis, younger dogs (OR=2.5; p=0.02 and OR=2.3; p<0.01) and poor body condition score (OR=4.2; p<0.001 and OR=2.2; p<0.01) were the strong predictors for infection, whereas female dogs (OR=2.8; p=0.02), younger dogs (OR=4.1; p<0.001) and poor body condition score (OR=4.0; p<0.001) were strongly associated with D. caninum infection in dogs. The results revealed high prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths-some of which have zoonotic potential-among dogs underlying huge public health risk.

Genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium spp. in non-human primates in rural andurban areas of Ethiopia.

Non-Human Primates (NHPs) harbor Cryptosporidium genotypes that can infect humans and vice versa. NHPs Chlorocebus aethiops and Colobus guereza and humans have overlapping territories in some regions of Ethiopia, which may increase the risk of zoonotic transmission of Cryptosporidium. This cross-sectional study examined the molecular prevalence and subtypes of Cryptosporidium spp. from 185 fecal samples of Chlorocebus aethiops and Colobus guereza in rural and urban areas in Ethiopia. Samples were tested for Cryptosporidium infection using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and subtypes were determined by sequencing a fragment of the 60-kDa glycoprotein gene (gp60). Of the 185 samples, fifty-one (27.56%) tested positive for Cryptosporidium infection. The species detected were C. parvum (n = 34), C. hominis (n = 12), and C. cuniculus (n = 3). Mixed infection with C. parvum and C. hominis were detected in 2 samples. Four C. hominis family subtypes (Ia, Ib, Id, and Ie) and one C. parvum family subtype (IIa) were identified. C. hominis IaA20 (n = 7) and C. parvum IIaA17G1R1 (n = 6) were the most prevalent subtypes detected. These results confirm that Chlorocebus aethiops and Colobus guereza can be infected with diverse C. parvum and C. hominis subtypes that can also potentially infect humans. Additional studies could help to understand the role of NHPs in the zoonotic transmission of Cryptosporidium in Ethiopia.

Seroprevalence canine survey for selected vector-borne pathogens and its relationship with poverty in metropolitan Pereira, Colombia, 2020

BackgroundTick-borne diseases (TBD) and dirofilariosis are currently not under surveillance in most Latin American countries. In addition, there is a significant lack of studies describing the current situation in most endemic areas, including Colombia. Therefore, seroprevalence studies are crucial for understanding the epidemiology of these vector-borne diseases. MethodsA serosurvey for TBD and dirofilariosis among 100 dogs was carried out in the municipality of Pereira, located in the Coffee-Triangle region, Colombia. Samples were tested using a rapid assay test system (SNAP® 4Dx®); based on an enzyme immunoassay technique‚ screening for antibodies to Anaplasma phagocytophilum/platys (sensitivity 99.1%)‚ Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. (98.8%), and Ehrlichia canis/ewingii (96.2%) by using specific antigens and checking for Dirofilaria immitis antigen based on specific antibodies (99.2%). Bivariate analyses were performed on Stata®14, significant p < 0.05. FindingsGlobal seroprevalence to the selected vector-borne pathogens was 74% (95%CI 65–83%). The highest seroprevalence was found for E. canis/ewingii (74%), followed by A. phagocytophilum/platys (16%). Seropositivity for Borrelia spp. and Dirofilaria spp. was 0%. All Anaplasma spp. seropositive dogs showed co-detection of Ehrlichia spp. (16%). Seroprevalence was significantly higher among dogs from families of lower socioeconomic status/level (I, 86%), followed by level II (74%), and III (36%) (p = 0.001). All dogs exhibiting anorexia (12%) were invariably seropositive (100%) (p = 0.029). Seroprevalence was higher among those showing mucocutaneous paleness (95%) compared to those without paleness (68%) (p = 0.013) (OR = 9.3; 95%CI 1.18–72.9). There was high variability in seroprevalence through the studied areas, ranging from 0% (La Libertad Park) up to Combia, Cesar Nader, Las Brisas and Saturno localities (100%) (p = 0.033). InterpretationGiven the high seroprevalence obtained in an area with documented ticks, there is a potential risk of zoonotic transmission to humans. Further seroprevalence studies in humans are needed to assess the prevalence of infections. Poverty is highly associated with these tick-borne pathogens in Pereira, as shown in the present study.

Zoonotic intestinal helminthes diagnosed in a 6-year period (2015-2020) in privately owned dogs of sub-urban and urban areas of Italy.

Intestinal helminthes of dogs have a relevant role for health and welfare of canine populations and many of them are zoonotic. Thus, a constant surveillance is pivotal to safeguard companion dogs and human health. Data from faecal examinations of pet dogs obtained in the last six years during the routine activity of the laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic diseases of the University Teaching Veterinary Hospital of the University of Teramo, Italy, are here reported. From 2015 to 2020 a total of 1083 individual faecal samples from privately owned dogs were examined using conventional copro-microscopic techniques. Endoparasite elements were found in 278 (25.7%) dogs, and among them, eggs of intestinal zoonotic helminthes were detected in 184 (17%) samples. The most common zoonotic parasites were Toxocara canis and hookworms (8.9% positivity rate for both). Most dogs (88%) were positive for a single zoonotic parasite while 12% of the positive animals harbored two or more zoonotic helminthes. A statistical analysis showed a significant association between dogs with less than one year of age and positivity to at least one intestinal zoonotic helminth, and that infections by T. canis are significantly more prevalent in dogs under one year of age. Despite being well known in canine clinical practice, these results indicate that zoonotic helminthes are still frequent in owned dogs. Thus, increased awareness of veterinary practitioners and pet owners is necessary to implement current diagnostic and control strategies to minimize the risk of zoonotic transmission of intestinal helminthes.

Genetic diversity of Duffy binding protein 2 region II ofPlasmodium cynomolgi from wild macaques in Peninsular Malaysia.

Recent reports of natural human infection by Plasmodium cynomolgi indicate the increased risk of zoonotic transmission by this simian parasite. The P. cynomolgi Duffy binding protein 2 (PcDBP2) has a potential role in the invasion pathway of host erythrocytes, and it is a possible vaccine candidate against cynomolgi malaria. This study investigates the genetic diversity, haplotypes, and natural selection of PcDBP2 region II from isolates collected from wild macaques in Peninsular Malaysia. Blood samples from 50 P. cynomolgi -infected wild macaques were used in the study. Genomic DNA extracted from the blood samples was used as template for PCR amplification of the PcDBP2 region II. The amplicons were cloned into a plasmid vector and sequenced. MEGA X and DnaSP ver.6.12.03 programmes were used to analyse the DNA sequences. A genealogical relationship of PcDBP2 region II were determined using haplotype network tree on NETWORK ver.10.2. Result showed high genetic diversity (ð = 0.017 ± 0.002; Hd = 1.000 ± 0.001) of the PcDBP2 region II. The Z-test indicates a purifying selection, with population expansion as shown in Tajima's D analysis. A total of 146 haplotypes of PcDBP2 region II were observed. Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that these haplotypes were grouped into three allelic types (136 for Strain B type, 9 for Berok type, and 1 recombinant type). In the haplotype network, PcDBP2 region II revealed no geographical groupings but was divided into two distinct clusters.

Animal, Herd and Feed Characteristics Associated with Blastocystis Prevalence and Molecular Diversity in Dairy Cattle from the North of France

Despite the major impact of Blastocystis sp. in terms of prevalence in human and animal populations and the risk of zoonotic transmission, no epidemiological survey has yet been conducted in cattle herds in France. The aim of this study was thus to assess the prevalence and molecular diversity of Blastocystis sp. and associated factors in dairy cattle from the north of France. A total of 1581 fecal samples were collected from 1246 animals reared in 20 farms. Molecular detection of the protozoan was performed by real-time PCR and indicated an overall prevalence of Blastocystis sp. reaching 54.8% in the study population. Important inter-herd variation (from 22.2% to 76.5%) of Blastocystis sp. prevalence was also reported. Sequence analysis of 159 positive samples highlighted a very large predominance of ST10 (36/159) and ST14 (64/159), and ST2 was only found in 2 samples. Mixed subtype infections were common, representing 35.8% of sequenced samples (57/159). A putative correlation between Blastocystis sp. colonization and various animal and herd characteristics or feed intake was subsequently investigated. The protozoan was less prevalent in cows that have recently calved but Blastocystis sp. carriage was not significantly related to age. Blastocystis sp. colonization also decreased with high beet pulp and pasture grass consumption and increased with corn silage intake. Finally, the only significant association between Blastocystis sp. STs and animal and herd characteristics was the number of lactations of cows, with a predominance of ST14 in cows that calved once only.

Screening of Colistin-Resistant Bacteria in Domestic Pets from France.

Simple SummaryZoonotic transmission from pets to their owners is a major health problem, especially when dealing with human pathogens. It is important to determine the reservoir of colistin-resistant bacteria in pets to avoid the risk factors for human transmission. This study investigated the screening of colistin-resistant bacteria in pets in Marseille, France. Overall, cats and dogs have various reservoirs of colistin-resistant bacteria, including naturally colistin-resistant bacteria and mcr gene carriers (n = 14). Pets are the best human companions; therefore, vigilance would be required to avoid zoonotic transmission of colistin-resistant bacteria. Although colistin use is restricted in France, we report here for the first time that cats and dogs have various colistin-resistant bacteria including mcr-1 gene carriers.Background: Pets are the closest animals to humans with a considerable risk of zoonotic transmission. This study aimed to screen colistin-resistant bacteria from stools of dogs and cats from Marseille, France. Screening of mcr genes in pets has never been reported in France. Methods: Fecal samples (n = 157) were cultivated on the selective Lucie-Bardet Jean-Marc-Rolain medium (LBJMR). Bacteria were identified using Microflex LS MALDI-TOF. The antibiotic resistance phenotype was investigated for several antibiotics (β-lactams, aminoside, cephalosporine, tetracycline, and sulfonamide). PCR techniques were performed to detect mcr genes. Results: A total of 218 bacteria were identified. For cats, intrinsically colistin-resistant bacteria were significantly higher than mcr-1 gene carriers (n = 4). Dogs had more bacteria with the mcr-1 gene (n = 10). Furthermore, cats had a high prevalence of Gram-positive bacteria (GPB), whereas dogs had GNB equal to GPB. The diversity of identified bacteria was due to the constitution of the pets’ microorganisms. Even though colistin use is monitored in France, pets harbor various colistin-resistant bacteria. Additionally, in this geographical area, bacteria bearing mcr-1 gene from dogs and cats were detected for the first time. Conclusions: The current study opens a new perspective: the spread of colistin resistance is independent of colistin use. What are the most factors related to the emergence of colistin resistance? The surveillance of pets must be considered a priority to avoid the spread of mcr genes. It is important to know the contribution that pets make to the pool of multidrug-resistant mcr-1-containing bacteria.

Orthohepevirus C infection as an emerging cause of acute hepatitis in Spain: First report in Europe

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) was considered the only member of the Hepeviridae family with zoonotic potential. Nevertheless, this consideration has been reassessed owing to several reported cases of acute and chronic hepatitis linked to the Orthohepevirus C genus. Because the circulation of Orthohepevirus C in rodents has been described worldwide, the risk of zoonotic transmission is plausibly global. Orthohepevirus C RNA was retrospectively evaluated in 2 cohorts of patients in Spain. The first cohort included patients with acute hepatitis without etiological diagnosis after screening for hepatotropic virus infection. The second cohort included patients diagnosed with acute HEV infection, defined as positivity for anti-HEV-IgM antibodies and/or detectable HEV RNA in serum. Cohort 1 comprised 169 patients (64.4% male, median age 43 years) and cohort 2 comprised 98 individuals (68.3% male, median age 45 years). Of the individuals included in Cohort 1, two (1.18%; 95% CI 0.2-3.8) had detectable Orthohepevirus C RNA in serum. In Cohort 2, of the 98 included patients, 58 showed detectable HEV RNA, while 40 only showed positivity for IgM antibodies. Among those bearing only IgM antibodies, Orthohepevirus C RNA was detected in 1 (2.5%; 95% CI 0.06-13.1) individual. All strains were consistent with genotype C1. The infection resulted in mild self-limiting acute hepatitis in 2 patients. Infection caused severe acute hepatitis in the remaining patient who died as a result of liver and renal failure. We described 3 cases of Orthohepevirus C in patients with acute hepatitis, resulting in the first description of this infection in Europe. The prevalence obtained in our study suggests that Orthohepevirus C could be an emerging disease in Europe. We describe the first cases of acute hepatitis related to rat hepatitis E virus in Europe. The prevalence found in our study suggest that rat hepatitis E virus could be considered an emerging disease in Europe.

Parameter estimates to support future risk assessment of Mycobacterium bovis in raw milk cheese

Zoonotic tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium bovis, is mainly linked to the consumption of raw milk from infected cows. In many countries, cases are rare, due to pasteurisation of milk and national programmes to control M. bovis infection in cattle. Speciality cheeses, which are often produced using raw milk, present challenges to risk managers in countries where M. bovis is endemic or (re-) emerging. A key concern is the potential risk of zoonotic transmission of M. bovis via the consumption of dairy products produced using raw milk originating from herds infected with M. bovis (bovine tuberculosis, bTB). The aim of this study was to determine parameter estimates to support the future risk assessment of M. bovis in raw milk cheese. In this study, the hazard was identified as viable M. bovis organisms in raw milk cheese. Parameters of interest in this study related to exposure assessment (the estimated extent of human exposure to viable M. bovis organisms) and hazard characterisation (the risk posed to human health following exposure to viable M. bovis organisms). The pathway for exposure assessment was visualised using a conceptual framework, which describes the steps through which M. bovis may be transferred from an infected animal(s) through manufacturing to the final cheese product. Estimation of most parameters for exposure assessment and hazard characterisation was undertaken using systematic literature reviews. Estimates could be derived for many parameters, but not all. In particular, the number of M. bovis organisms excreted in the milk and present in the faeces of infected cattle are unknown. There is zero-tolerance for M. bovis in foods of animal origin destined for human consumption in European legislation. This work has highlighted important gaps in knowledge, and areas for further research. For each of the parameters for which estimates are available, we outline the types/sources of uncertainty as reflected in relevant published papers. In any future application of these parameter estimates, care will be needed to reflect the uncertainties associated with these elements of exposure assessment.

Characterization of a 2016-2017 Human Seasonal H3 Influenza A Virus Spillover Now Endemic to U.S. Swine.

ABSTRACTIn 2017, the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory detected a reverse-zoonotic transmission of a human seasonal H3 influenza A virus into swine (IAV-S) in Oklahoma. Pairwise comparison between the recently characterized human seasonal H3 IAV-S (H3.2010.2) hemagglutinin (HA) sequences detected in swine and the most similar 2016–2017 human seasonal H3 revealed 99.9% nucleotide identity. To elucidate the origin of H3.2010.2 IAV-S, 45 HA and 27 neuraminidase (NA) sequences from 2017 to 2020 as well as 11 whole-genome sequences (WGS) were genetically characterized. Time to most recent common human ancestor was estimated between August and September 2016. The N2 NA was of human origin in all but one strain from diagnostic submissions with NA sequences, and the internal gene segments from WGS consisted of matrix genes originating from the 2009 pandemic H1N1 and another 5 internal genes of triple reassortant swine origin (TTTTPT). Pigs experimentally infected with H3.2010.2 demonstrated efficient nasal shedding and replication in the lungs, mild pneumonia, and minimal microscopic lung lesions and transmitted the virus to indirect contact swine. Antigenically, H3.2010.2 viruses were closer to a human seasonal vaccine strain, A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, than to the H3.2010.1 human seasonal H3 viruses detected in swine in 2012. This was the second sustained transmission of a human seasonal IAV into swine from the 2010 decade after H3.2010.1. Monitoring the spillover and detection of novel IAV from humans to swine may help vaccine antigen selection and could impact pandemic preparedness.IMPORTANCE H3.2010.2 is a new phylogenetic clade of H3N2 circulating in swine that became established after the spillover of a human seasonal H3N2 from the 2016–2017 influenza season. The novel H3.2010.2 transmitted and adapted to the swine host and demonstrated reassortment with internal genes from strains endemic to pigs, but it maintained human-like HA and NA. It is genetically and antigenically distinct from the H3.2010.1 H3N2 introduced earlier in the 2010 decade. Human seasonal IAV spillovers into swine become established in the population through adaptation and sustained transmission and contribute to the genetic and antigenic diversity of IAV circulating in swine. Continued IAV surveillance is necessary to detect emergence of novel strains in swine and assist with vaccine antigen selection to improve the ability to prevent respiratory disease in swine as well as the risk of zoonotic transmission.

Seroprevalence and Molecular Detection of Bovine Brucellosis

Background: Brucellosis is one of the major zoonotic problems that exist worldwide. Brucellosis is clinically characterized by metritis, mastitis, repeat breeding, abortion in the last trimester of pregnancy, retention of placenta and reduced milk production in the female whereas epididymitis, orchitis and sterility in male. In humans can be highly variable, ranging from nonspecific, flu-like symptoms to undulant fever, arthritis, orchitis and epididymitis. Methods: A total of 567 bovine serum samples was taken from four districts of Brij region of UP. All the samples were processed to detection of prevalence of brucellosis by RBPT, STAT ELISA and confirmation of genes bcsp31, 16SrRNA, omp2 and IS711 by PCR. Result: The prevalence of brucellosis was found to be 07.93% (31/391), 08.69% (34/391) and 10.74% (42/391) shows positive by RBPT, STAT and I- ELISA respectively. In buffalo Out of 176 tested serum sample the seroprevalence was found to be 09.66% (17/176), 10.79% (19/176) and 12.5% (22/176) positive by RBPT, STAT and I- ELISA respectively. Out of 567 samples 18 were positive for Brucella genus specific gene. The higher prevalence of the disease in this region increases the risk of zoonotic transmission and it implies a serious threat to the human population as well as the huge impact on economy due to loss of productivity as well as loss of livestock population.

Soil contamination by Ancylostoma spp. and Toxocara spp. eggs in elementary school playgrounds in the extreme south of Brazil.

Millions of people worldwide, and especially schoolchildren, may be infected by geohelminths due to their exposure to a contaminated environment. The aim of this study was to evaluate soil contamination by Ancylostoma spp. and Toxocara spp. eggs in recreation areas at elementary schools in Pelotas, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Sand samples were collected from 22 schools and were processed using the centrifugal flotation method. Helminth eggs with zoonotic potential were found in 12 out of the 22 schools (54.5%). Contamination by Ancylostoma spp. and Toxocara spp. was observed in 36.4% (8/22) and 27.3% (6/22) of the soil samples collected at these schools, respectively. These findings of eggs show that the school communities are exposed to risks of zoonotic transmission.

Factors affecting the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites and lungworm in dogs and assessment of antiparasitic drug use patterns

Dogs are hosts of parasites with different pathogenicities and zoonotic risks. The aim of our study was to assess factors that could affect the occurrence of endoparasitic infections in dogs using questionnaires for owners and examining canine faeces. Based on the responses of dog owners, we evaluated ways of the preventive and therapeutic use of antiparasitic drugs. One faecal sample was obtained from each dog (391 samples total), and then examined by flotation, larvoscopic, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods. We focused on zoonotic tapeworms Echinococcus multilocularis and Taenia crassiceps. The answers in the dog owners’ questionnaires showed that owners most often dewormed their dogs irregularly (96.4%), namely, twice a year (24.3%). In coprological examinations the following parasites were detected: Giardia spp., Cystoisospora ohioensis complex, Neospora caninum/Hammondia heydorni, Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, Capillaria spp., Trichuris spp., Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, Ancylostoma spp. and Taenia spp. A total of 4 out of 391 PCR investigated samples of faeces were positive for DNA of Taenia species. Sequences were obtained for 3 of them, confirming 100% identity with T. crassiceps. The zoonotic helminths Toxocara canis were the more prevalent species (9.3%, 4.3%, 1.9% group A, B, C). We consider the presence of T. crassiceps in 3 dog faecal samples to be serious due to its zoonotic potential. Data collected within this study showed that the prevention against endoparasites carried out at the breeders’ discretion is insufficient to ensure the health of their dogs or to cover the risk of zoonotic transmission.

Genotyping and Zoonotic Potential of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Stray Dogs Sheltered from Shanghai, China.

Simple SummaryEnterocytozoon bieneusi is the most prevalent species with zoonotic risks in humans and various livestock, wildlife and companion mammals. Dogs being the most popular companion animals of humans become more and more regarded recently. The present study reported the total E. bieneusi positive rate of 8.8% (24/272), and 8 genotypes including three known (genotypes EbpA, Henan V and Type IV) and 5 novel genotypes (genotypes SHZJD1–5) in stray dogs from Shanghai but sheltered in Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China. In addition, all the genotypes here were all clustered into group 1 with zoonotic potential.Microsporidia are considered to be highly diverged and specialized parasites, and can infect a wide variety of vertebrate and invertebrate hosts. Enterocytozoon bieneusi is the most prevalent species in humans and various livestock, wildlife, and companion mammals. Dogs being the most popular companion animals of humans become more and more regarded. In this study, 272 fecal specimens were collected from stray dogs from Shanghai, but the dogs were adopted in a shelter in Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China. E. bieneusi was examined by PCR amplification of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and sequence analysis. The total positive rate of E. bieneusi was 8.8% (24/272). Moreover, 8 genotypes were found, including three known (genotypes EbpA, Henan V and Type IV) and 5 novel genotypes (genotypes SHZJD1–5). Two samples were positive for two genotypes, one was positive fortype SHZJD4 and Henan V, the other was positive for Henan V and Type IV. In addition, phylogenetic analysis showed all genotypes obtained in this study were all clustered into the zoonotic group 1. Therefore, the risk of zoonotic transmission of pathogens such as E. bieneusi from stray dogs to humans potentially threaten human health, and it is time to strengthen their health management.

Molecular Investigation of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Calves in Oromia Special Zone, Central Ethiopia

Enterocytozoon bieneusi, the most frequently diagnosed microsporidian species in humans, is also identified in a wide range of animals. The aim of this study, therefore, was to determine the prevalence and genotypes of E. bieneusi in calves and to assess its public health implications in Central Ethiopia. A total of 449 fecal samples were examined by a nested PCR targeting the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of the rRNA gene. All positive PCR products were sequenced to determine the genotypes. Enterocytozoon bieneusi was found in 7.1% (32/449) of the calves. Difference in the infection rate was statistically significant (P &lt; 0.05) among age groups. Out of the 10 ITS genotypes, nine belonging to the known genotypes BEB8, BEB4, BEB17, I, KIN1, Peru11, PigEBITS5, H and ET-L2; and one novel genotype (named as ET-C1) were identified. Four of the genotypes (KIN-1, Peru11, PigEBITS5, and H) were clustered to a member of a major phylogenetic group with zoonotic potential. This study constituted the first molecular characterization of E. bieneusi in Ethiopia, and it suggested a potential risk of zoonotic transmission. Studies in humans and further studies in animals are necessary to assess the public health significance of E. bieneusi.

Antibiotic Resistance Profiles of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates Containing Virulence Genes

Background: A most common opportunistic pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is present in both humans and animals and responsible for various nosocomial infections and healthcare settings related infections. Different virulence genes like; oprL (membrane lipoprotein L) and toxA (exotoxin A i.e. ETA) in P. aeruginosa, assist in its pathogenicity, toxicity and contribute to high antibiotic resistance. So considering the risk of zoonotic transmission of P. aeruginosa through animal-related foods, this study aimed to monitor the prevalence of oprL and toxA virulence genes and antimicrobial resistance in P. aeruginosa isolates, obtained from animal (Cow’s milk) and human clinical samples. Material and methods: Of the total 120 collected samples for this study, every 60 samples were collected from animals and humans from respective laboratories. Total 76 isolates of P. aeruginosa were isolated and identified by morphological and biochemical tests. The presence of virulence factors like oprL and toxA were evaluated by PCR analysis and antimicrobial resistance was assessed by antibiotic susceptibility test (Kirby-Bauer method). Results: From the total 76, P. aeruginosa isolates obtained from both animal and human isolates, alone presence and coexistence of both toxA and oprL genes in P. aeruginosa isolates; were detected in PCR analysis. PCR analysis results showed in P. aeruginosa isolates, alone distribution of toxA and oprL genes is, 75% and 54.16% in animals, and 84.61% and 80.76% in humans, respectively. The coexistence of both genes was 37.50% and 40.32% in animals and human isolates, along with high antibiotic resistance in most P. aeruginosa isolates. Conclusion: Therefore, this study suggested PCR analysis can be used for fast and specific detection of oprL and toxA genes in P. aeruginosa. Monitoring of these genes can help to prevent the risk of transmission of multi-drug resistant P. aeruginosa, from animals to humans.

Detection and characterization of Hepatitis E virus from commercial rabbit livers in Hebei, China

Rabbit hepatitis E virus (HEV) has been reported for years and is thought to have the potential for zoonotic transmission from rabbits to humans. As reported, HEV genotype 3 (gt3) is the most prevalent form of HEV in rabbits. To determine the prevalence of HEV in commercial rabbit livers, 176 liver samples were collected from an abattoir in Hebei Province, China. Three (1.7%) samples tested positive for RNA of HEV-ORF2 (open reading frames-2). Sequence analysis showed that the three isolates shared high identities with each other (94.08–98.85%). Further analysis showed that all the rabbit strains clustered together in the branch of HEV gt3. Further study by immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays showed that 131 (74.4%) liver samples were positive for HEV ORF2 protein. Pathological changes including cell degeneration, inflammatory cell infiltration and bile duct epithelial cell hyperplasia were observed under microscopy. These findings indicated the presence of HEV in commercial livers of rabbits. Additional studies should be conducted to investigate the infectivity of rabbit HEV (rHEV) and the potential risks of zoonotic transmission of rHEV from rabbits to human beings.

PREVALENCE AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERISTICS OF BLASTOCYSTIS SP. FROM PEAFOWL (PAVO CRISTATUS) IN CHINA.

This study is the first description of Blastocystis infection in peafowls in China. In total, 143 fecal specimens collected from a peafowl breeding farm in Henan Province were tested for Blastocystis infection by PCR assay targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene, and a total of 50 specimens (35.0%) were positive. Based on sequences and phylogenetic analysis, 2 genetically distinct subtypes (STs) were determined: ST9 and ST7. ST9 was the predominant subtype, accounting for 82% (41/50). The rare zoonotic subtype ST7 was also identified in peafowls, with the infection rate of 18% (9/50). Altogether, the present study is the first report of the prevalence and molecular characteristics of Blastocystis in peafowls in central China. The presence of zoonotic subtypes in peafowls suggests the potential risk of zoonotic transmission of Blastocystis to workers at peafowl farms.

Risk Evaluation of Pathogenic Intestinal Protozoa Infection Among Laboratory Macaques, Animal Facility Workers, and Nearby Villagers From One Health Perspective.

Background: Previous epidemiological studies have confirmed non-human primates (NHPs) as reservoirs for Cryptosporidium spp. , Giardia intestinalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi. It highlights the possibility of interspecies transmission between humans and macaques in laboratory animal facilities. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of pathogenic intestinal protozoan infections in macaques and humans and to determine the risk of cross-species transmission from One Health view.Materials and Methods: A total of 360 fecal samples, including 310 from the four Macaca mulatta groups, 25 from the facility workers in a laboratory animal facility, and 25 from the villagers nearby in Yongfu country, southeast China, were collected. Nested PCR assays were done for detecting protozoan pathogens from all the specimens. Furthermore, potential risk factors (gender, age, and direct contact) on the occurrence of intestinal protozoa infection among different sub-groups were evaluated. A phylogenetic and haplotype network analysis was conducted to examine the genetic structure and shared patterns of E. bieneusi and Cyclospora cayetanensis.Results: The pathogenic intestinal protozoa were detected in both human and macaque fecal samples. A total of 134 (37.2%) samples were tested positive, which included 113 (36.4%) macaques, 14 (56.0%) facility workers, and 7 (28.0%) villagers, respectively. There was no significant difference in four intestinal protozoa infections between facility workers and villagers (χ2 = 2.4, P > 0.05). However, the positive rate of pathogenic intestinal protozoa in the facility workers, who had direct contact with macaques, was significantly higher [odds ratio (OR) = 0.31, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.09–1.00, P < 0.05).Thirty-three ITS genotypes of E. bieneusi were identified, including five known genotypes (PigEBITS7, Peru8, Henan V, D, and CM1) and six novel genotypes (MEB1–6). Seven haplotypes were identified in the network analysis from C. cayetanensis-positive samples. Meanwhile, a phylogenetic and haplotype analysis confirmed the presence of zoonotic subtypes in NHPs and humans.Conclusion: The data collected from this study confirmed a high prevalence of intestinal protozoan infection in humans and macaques. These results warrant workers of such facilities and residents to limit contact with infected animals in order to minimize related health risks. The need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the risk of zoonotic transmission, especially from a One Health perspective, is recommended.

Work-Related Human T-lymphotropic Virus 1 and 2 (HTLV-1/2) Infection: A Systematic Review.

Human T-lymphotropic virus 1 and 2 (HTLV-1/2) belong to the delta group of retroviruses which may cause a life-long infection in humans, HTLV-1 leading to adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma and other diseases. Different transmission modes have been described, such as breastfeeding, and, as for other blood-borne pathogens, unsafe sexual activity, intravenous drug usage, and blood transfusion and transplantation. The present systematic review was conducted to identify all peer-reviewed studies concerning the work-related infection by HTLV-1/2. A literature search was conducted from January to May 2021, according to the PRISMA methodology, selecting 29 studies: seven related to health care workers (HCWs), five to non-HCWs, and 17 to sex workers (SWs). The findings showed no clear evidence as to the possibility of HTLV-1/2 occupational transmission in HCWs, according to the limited number and quality of the papers. Moreover, non-HCWs showed a higher prevalence in jobs consistent with a lower socioeconomic status or that could represent a familial cluster, and an increased risk of zoonotic transmission from STLV-1-infected non-human primates has been observed in African hunters. Finally, a general increase of HTLV-1 infection was observed in SWs, whereas only one paper described an increased prevalence for HTLV-2, supporting the urgent need for prevention and control measures, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment of HTLV-1/2, to be offered routinely as part of a comprehensive approach to decrease the impact of sexually transmitted diseases in SWs.