Undercooked Fish Research Articles

Fecundity, in vitro early larval development and karyotype of the zoonotic nematode Anisakis pegreffii

The in vitro life cycle of zoonotic helminths is an essential tool for -omic translational studies focused on disease control and treatment. Anisakiosis is an emerging zoonosis contracted by the ingestion of raw or undercooked fish infected with the third stage larvae (L3) of two sibling species Anisakis simplex sensu stricto (s.s.) and Anisakis pegreffii, the latter being the predominant species in the Mediterranean basin. Recently, in vitro culture of A. pegreffii has been developed to enable fast and large-scale production of fertile adults. However, the conditions for larval development from hatching to infective L3 were not fulfilled to complete the cycle. Herein, we used a Drosophila medium supplemented with chicken serum and adjusted different osmolarities to maintain the culture of L3 hatched from eggs for up to 17 weeks. The highest survival rate was observed in the medium with the highest osmolarities, which also allowed the highest larval exsheathment rate. Key morphological features of embryogenesis and postembryogenesis studied by transmission electron microscopy revealed that the excretory gland cell is differentiated already up to 48 h post-hatching. Extracellular vesicles and cell-free mitochondria are discharged between the two cuticle sheets of the second stage larvae (L2). Contemporarly cultivated, two populations of adult A. simplex s.s. and A. pegreffii reached an average production of 29,914.05 (± 27,629.36) and 24,370.96 (± 12,564.86) eggs/day/female, respectively. The chromosome spreads of A. pegreffii obtained from mature gonads suggests a diploid karyotype formula of 2n = 18. The development of a reliable protocol for the in vitro culture of a polyxenous nematode such as Anisakis spp. will serve to screen for much needed novel drug targets, but also to study the intricated and unknown ecological and physiological traits of these trophically transmitted marine nematodes.

Anisakis simplex and urticaria. What we know about its real incidence and management in dermatological settings?

Acute or chronic infections have been described among causes of chronic urticaria (CU). Anisakidosis is a human disease caused by the ingestion of larval nematodes of the family Anisakidae. The infestation is acquired by eating raw seafood or undercooked fish and squid. There are considerable variations in the frequency of underlying causes in the different studies and in different countries, such as differences in diets and the prevalence of infections. Anisakis simplex has been recognized as a trigger of both acute and CU manifestations. However, there is still a lack of evidence about its management and treatment in dermatology. We, therefore, reviewed some biologic properties of Anisakis simplex in order to understand the relationship between its biology and the mechanism it uses to establish chronic dermatological conditions such as urticaria and cause late complications. In addition, we herein report some concerns about the effectiveness of systemic treatment in preventing complications and management in dermatological settings.

Phenotypic, molecular detection and antibiogram analysis of Aeromonas Hydrophila from Oreochromis Niloticus (Nile Tilapia) and Ready-To- eat fish products in selected Rift Valley lakes of Ethiopia

BackgroundAeromonas hydrophila is a zoonotic bacterial pathogen that frequently causes disease and mass mortalities among cultured and feral fishes worldwide. In Ethiopia, A. hydrophila outbreak was reported in Sebeta fish ponds and in Lake Tana fishery. However, there is no to little information on the molecular, and phenotypical characteristics of A. hydrophila in Ethiopian fisheries. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2020 to May 2021 in selected Ethiopian Rift valley lakes.ResultsA total of 140 samples were collected aseptically from fish (Muscle, Gill, Intestine, Spleen and Kidney) from fish landing sites, market and restaurants with purposive sampling methods. Aeromonas selective media (AMB), morphological and biochemical tests were used to isolate and identify A. hydrophila. Accordingly, the pathogen was isolated from 81 (60.45%) of samples. Among the isolates 92.59% expressed virulence trait through β hemolysis on blood agar media with 5% sheep blood. Moreover, 54 strains (66.67%) were further confirmed with Real-Time PCR (qPCR) using ahaI gene specific primers and optimized protocol. The highest (68.51%) were detected from live fish, (24.07%) were from market fish and the lowest (7.4%%) were from ready-to-eat products. Antibiogram analysis was conducted on ten representative isolates. Accordingly, A. hydrophila isolates were susceptible to ciprofloxacin (100%), chloramphenicol (100%) and ceftriaxone (100%). However, all ten isolates were resistant to Amoxicillin and Penicillin.ConclusionsThe study indicates A. hydrophila strains carrying virulence ahaI gene that were ß-hemolytic and resistant to antibiotics commonly used in human and veterinary medicine are circulating in the fishery. The detection of the pathogen in 140 of the sampled fish population is alarming for potential outbreaks and zoonosis. Therefore, further molecular epidemiology of the disease should be studied to establish potential inter host transmission and antibiotic resistance traits. Therefore, raising the public awareness on risk associated with consuming undercooked or raw fish meat is pertinent.

Metabolomic analysis reveals a differential adaptation process of the larval stages of Anisakis simplex to the host environment.

Introduction: Anisakis simplex are parasitic nematodes that cause anisakiasis. The possibility of infection with this parasite is through consumption of raw or undercooked fish products. A. simplex infections are often misdiagnosed, especially in subclinical cases that do not present with typical symptoms such as urticaria, angioedema, and gastrointestinal allergy. The resulting allergic reactions range from rapid-onset and potentially fatal anaphylactic reactions to chronic, debilitating conditions. While there have been numerous published studies on the genomes and proteomes of A. simplex, less attention has been paid to the metabolomes. Metabolomics is concerned with the composition of metabolites in biological systems. Dynamic responses to endogenous and exogenous stimuli are particularly well suited for the study of holistic metabolic responses. In addition, metabolomics can be used to determine metabolic activity at different stages of development or during growth. Materials and methods: In this study, we reveal for the first time the metabolomes of infectious stages (L3 and L4) of A. simplex using untargeted metabolomics by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: In the negative ionization mode (ESI-), we identified 172 different compounds, whereas in the positive ionization mode (ESI+), 186 metabolites were found. Statistical analysis showed that 60 metabolites were found in the ESI- mode with different concentration in each group, of which 21 were more enriched in the L3 larvae and 39 in the L4 stage of A. simplex. Comparison of the individual developmental stages in the ESI + mode also revealed a total of 60 differential metabolites, but 32 metabolites were more enriched in the L3 stage larvae, and 28 metabolites were more concentrated in the L4 stage. Discussion: The metabolomics study revealed that the developmental stages of A. simplex differed in a number of metabolic pathways, including nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism. In addition, molecules responsible for successful migration within their host, such as pyridoxine and prostaglandins (E1, E2, F1a) were present in the L4 stage. In contrast, metabolic pathways for amino acids, starch, and sucrose were mainly activated in the L3 stage. Our results provide new insights into the comparative metabolome profiles of two different developmental stages of A. simplex.

Intestinal Obstruction for Anisakiasis: Surgical and Physical Therapy Treatment

Anisakiasis, a zoonotic disease that can lead to small intestine obstruction, has seen a significant rise in Spain. The country has become the first in Europe with an annual incidence of 8000 cases, primarily due to the popularity of consuming exotic dishes of undercooked or raw fish and the impact of climate change. The clinical presentation of anisakiasis can mimic symptoms of acute appendicitis or intestinal obstruction, leading to potential misdiagnosis. This case report describes a 37-year-old patient with no significant medical history who presented abdominal distension and intense pain in the right lower quadrant. The patient underwent surgery and received physiotherapy treatment, including therapeutic exercises and pulsed-pressure myofascial vacuum therapy, to facilitate functional recovery. The increasing incidence of anisakiasis in Spain underscores the need to consider it in the differential diagnosis of digestive diseases, given the high consumption of poorly prepared or raw fish in the region.

Opisthorchis viverrini-Current Understanding of the Neglected Hepatobiliary Parasite.

Opisthorchiasis due to Opisthorchis viverrini infection continues to be a significant public healthcare concern in various subregions of Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam. The main mode of transmission is via consumption of raw or undercooked fish, which is deeply embedded in the culture and tradition of the people living near the Mekong River. After ingestion, the flukes migrate to the bile ducts, potentially causing many hepatobiliary complications, including cholangitis, cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, advanced periductal fibrosis and cholangiocarcinoma. Several mechanisms of opisthorchiasis-associated cholangiocarcinogenesis have been proposed and elucidated in the past decade, providing insight and potential drug targets to prevent the development of the sinister complication. The gold standard for diagnosing opisthorchiasis is still via stool microscopy, but the advent of novel serological, antigen, and molecular tests shows promise as more convenient, alternative diagnostic methods. The mainstay of treatment of opisthorchiasis is praziquantel, while treatment of opisthorchiasis-associated cholangiocarcinoma depends on its anatomic subtype and resectability. Thus far, the most successful fluke control programme is the Lawa model based in Thailand, which raised awareness, incorporated education, and frequent surveillance of intermediate hosts to reduce transmission of opisthorchiasis. Development of vaccines using tetraspanins shows promise and is currently ongoing.

A case of chronic gastric anisakiasis coexisting with early gastric cancer.

Anisakiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the consumption of raw or undercooked fish that is infected with Anisakis third-stage larvae. In countries, such as Japan, Italy, and Spain, where people have a custom of eating raw or marinated fish, anisakiasis is a common infection. Although anisakiasis has been reported in the gastrointestinal tract in several countries, reports of anisakiasis accompanied by cancer are rare. We present the rare case of a 40-year-old male patient with anisakiasis coexisting with mucosal gastric cancer. Submucosal gastric cancer was suspected on gastric endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasonography. After laparoscopic distal gastrectomy, granulomatous inflammation with Anisakis larvae in the submucosa was pathologically revealed beneath mucosal tubular adenocarcinoma. Histological and immunohistochemical investigation showed cancer cells as intestinal absorptive-type cells that did not produce mucin. Anisakis larvae could have invaded the cancer cells selectively because of the lack of mucin in the cancerous epithelium. Anisakiasis coexisting with cancer is considered reasonable rather than coincidental. In cancer with anisakiasis, preoperative diagnosis may be difficult because anisakiasis leads to morphological changes in the cancer.

Raw fish consumption in Portugal: Commonly consumed fish species and associated risk factors for anisakiosis

Foodborne parasitic zoonoses from fish and shellfish products are of significant health concern. Anisakiosis is an important fish-borne zoonosis caused by nematodes of the genus Anisakis. Humans are infected through consumption of raw or undercooked fish or cephalopods containing Anisakis spp. Third stage larvae. Infection can result in both gastrointestinal and allergic symptoms. Globalization has resulted in a growth in demand for raw or undercooked food, and this may increase the population at risk of anisakiosis. Our study's main aim was to investigate the risk of anisakiosis from the five fish species most frequently consumed raw or undercooked in Portugal, as identified by a previous study. In addition, a study was carried out to identify the fish species most commonly used in raw fish dishes in Asian restaurants serving Japanese food in the Porto district. The results of this study were incorporated into the risk investigation. The 5 fish species most commonly eaten raw were salmon, tuna, cod, hake and sardines. This was similar to our findings in the restaurant survey, which identified salmon and tuna as the most popular fish served in raw dishes. It also identified nigiri, sashimi and temaki as the most popular raw fish dishes. After examination of the production practices and parasite prevalence for each of the five fish species, we concluded that the main risk groups for anisakiosis were consumers who prepare raw or lightly processed fish dishes at home, if they are unaware of methods to prevent anisakiosis. Some cooked fish dishes may also present a risk, lightly grilled wild salmon or sardines have the potential to contain viable Anisakis larvae. We identified a need for further studies, to establish the level of consumption of wild salmon and wild tuna, and a large-scale study to examine the level of sensitization to Anisakis within the Portuguese population. Our findings highlight the need for more consumer education campaigns regarding the risks associated with raw fish consumption, and prevention methods for anisakiosis. In addition, our study emphasises the need for a more standardized approach to inspection measures within the fish supply chain, to prevent products contaminated with parasites reaching the market.

Occurrence and characterisation of Eustrongylides species in Australian native birds and fish

In Australia, nematodes belonging to the genus Eustrongylides were believed to be endemic species until the late 20th century when they were all considered to be E. excisus, invalid or inquirendae. Although these nematodes have frequently been reported in Australian fish, reptiles, and birds and cause disease or mortality among them, there has been no attempt to date to characterise them genetically. Globally, also, no one has validated or defined suitable genetic markers to distinguish between species of Eustrongylides. In this study, adult Eustrongylides from little black cormorant (Phalacrocorax sulcirostris; n = 3) and larvae from mountain galaxias (Galaxias olidus, n = 2) and a Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii, n = 1), and a Murray cod-trout cod hybrids (Maccullochella peelii x Maccullochella macquariensis, n = 1) were available for morphological examination and molecular characterisation. The adult nematodes from cormorants were identified as E. excisus. Sequences of the 18S and ITS regions were then obtained for all nematodes, which were identical among all specimens (larvae and adults) and also identical to those of E. excisus available in the GenBank. However, only one base pair difference exists between the 18S sequences of E. excisus and E. ignotus, with limited sequences available in GenBank accompanied with proper morphological data for the nematodes. With that limitation in mind, identifying our specimens as E. excisus suggests spill-over – that it is an introduced parasite species that has successfully established its life cycle among Australian native species – may have occurred. Our study is the first report of E. excisus in the little black cormorant, P. sulcirostris. Our results do not exclude the possibility of the occurrence of other species of Eustrongylides, either native or exotic, in Australia. This parasite is zoonotic and with increasing demand for fish and changing dietary preferences, such as the consumption of raw or undercooked fish, its occurrence in the flesh of the fish is concerning. This parasite is also associated with anthropogenic habitat alteration affecting the reproductive success of the infected hosts. Therefore, awareness among the relevant authorities of the presence of the parasite in Australia and its adverse impact on native animals is crucial for the success of conservation plans such as fish recovery and relocation efforts.

Morphological and molecular identification of third-stage larvae of Anisakis typica (Nematoda: Anisakidae) from Red Sea coral trout, Plectropomus areolatus

Anisakidosis is a foodborne zoonotic infection induced by members of the family Anisakidae via the consumption of raw or undercooked fish such as sushi and sashimi. Identifying anisakid larval species is critical for the epidemiology and diagnosis of diseases caused by them. This study aimed at identifying Anisakis larvae collected from marine fish in Egyptian waters based on morphological characteristics and molecular analysis. Thirty marine fish coral trout, Plectropomus areolatus, were collected from Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt, to investigate larval nematodes of the genus Anisakis. The larvae were detected encapsulated in the peritoneal cavity and muscle of the fish host. This examination revealed that anisakid larvae naturally infected 19 fish specimens with a prevalence of 63.33% and a mean intensity of 4.1 ± 0.40. Most of them (68 larvae: 71.57%) were found in the musculature. Morphological and morphometric analyses using light and scanning electron microscopy revealed a head region with a prominent boring tooth, inconspicuous lips, and a characteristic protruded cylindrical mucron. All larvae in this study possessed the same morphology as Anisakis Larval type I. Molecular analysis based on ITS region using maximum likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic methods confirmed them as Anisakis typica. This is the first study to identify A. typica larvae from the commercial fish coral trout P. areolatus in Egyptian waters using morphological and molecular methods.

Improved latrines minimally impact Schistosoma mekongi transmission in Mekong islands

Schistosoma mekongi and other intestinal helminth infections remain public health concerns in Lao People's Democratic Republic, especially in remote areas where access to sanitation is limited.We performed an experimental study in four villages where latrine construction was coupled with two rounds of mass drug administration (MDA) with praziquantel and albendazole, and compared with two control villages that only received two rounds of MDA. The prevalence of helminth infections before (baseline) and after (follow-up) intervention were compared. Additionally, the prevalence in intervention and control villages were compared 12 months post-intervention. Kato–Katz, formalin-ethyl acetate concentration and Baermann techniques were employed to assess helminth infections.We found infection prevalence of S. mekongi in the intervention and control villages was 28.6% and 1.8%, respectively. The prevalences of other helminth infections were as follows: Opisthorchis viverrini, 79.5% and 71.8%; hookworm, 48.8% and 65.6%; and Strongyloides stercoralis, 43.1% and 38.3%. Other helminth species were detected in less than 5% of the study participants. Latrine intervention coupled with two rounds of MDA in the intervention villages reduced the prevalence of S. mekongi infection by 6.0% (from 28.6% to 22.6%; P < 0.001), O. viverrini infection by 11.3% (from 79.5% to 68.2%; P < 0.001), hookworm infection by 22.6% (from 48.8% to 26.2%; P < 0.001), and S. stercoralis infection by 12.0% (from 43.1% to 31.1%; P < 0.001). The observed reductions were not significantly different when compared to the control villages, where only two rounds of MDA were implemented (P > 0.05). Study participants in both groups commonly engaged in behaviours such as open defecation, bathing in the Mekong River, consuming raw or undercooked fish dishes and walking barefoot. These practices and behaviours are associated with helminth infections. Concluding, this study showed only a marginal impact associated with latrine use in intervention communities. There is a need for longer term studies with integrated interventions, such as effective health education to foster behavioural changes related to open defecation, raw or undercooked food consumption, wearing protected footwear outdoors, and personal hygiene.

Multigene phylogenetic analysis reveals non-monophyly of Anisakis s.l. and Pseudoterranova (Nematoda: Anisakidae).

The nematode genera Anisakis s.l. and Pseudoterranova (Anisakidae) include causative agents of anisakiasis and pseudoterranovosis, parasitic diseases resulting from eating undercooked or raw fish or squid. Species in both genera have thus attracted considerable attention especially in public health and taxonomic studies. The phylogenetic relationships of these genera within the subfamily Anisakinae, however, remain to be investigated with dense taxonomic sampling. In this study, we collected an anisakid third-stage larva, and identified it morphologically and molecularly as Pseudoterranova ceticola. Phylogeny of 15 anisakine species, including the newly collected specimen of Ps. ceticola, was reconstructed based on sequences of three mitochondrial (cox1, cox2, and 12S rRNA) and two nuclear (ITS and 28S rRNA) regions. The obtained tree suggested the non-monophyly of Anisakis s.l. and Pseudoterranova. Anisakis s.l. was divided into two groups, which are distinguished from each other by the shape of the ventriculus. Based on phylogenetic relationships and morphology, three species with a shorter ventriculus ("A." brevispiculata, "A." paggiae, and "A." physeteris) were assigned to the genus Skrjabinisakis, as recently proposed. Pseudoterranova ceticola was distantly related to the monophyletic Ps. decipiens species complex. Although the phylogenetic position of the type species Ps. kogiae has not been investigated due to a lack of sequence data, this species may morphologically and ecologically resemble Ps. ceticola, inferring a close kinship between the two species.

First report of knowledge and practices towards toxoplasmosis among cat owners: A cross-sectional survey in Bangladesh.

Raising awareness about Toxoplasma gondii infection among cat owners in Bangladesh is indispensable to formulate persuasive management tactics to avoid zoonotic infections from pet cats. However, to the authors' best knowledge, no studies have been performed in Bangladesh to determine knowledge and practices of toxoplasmosis in cat owners. Therefore, the objectives of the current study were to cover this research gap. We carried out a cross-sectional study in Bangladesh from June 2020 through December 2021. A structured online questionnaire was distributed to cat owners, which were voluntarily completed by them. The questionnaire included socio-demographic data, aetiology, transmissions, clinical signs, and preventive practices towards toxoplasmosis. Overall, 1,019 cat owners participated voluntarily in the cross-sectional survey. Among them, 793 (77.82%) participants showed poor knowledge regarding toxoplasmosis. Under specific knowledge sections, 62.51% of the participants revealed incorrect knowledge that toxoplasmosis was a zoonotic disease. In the same way, (72.03-85.77) % of the cat owners were unaware that the disease could be transmitted from improperly washed vegetables, raw or undercooked meat and fish, and contaminated water and milk with cat faeces. Respondents' age, education, occupation, residence type, and marital status were significantly (p < .05) associated with their knowledge level. Besides, 94.11% of cat owners had a good practice level. They followed good practices in different issues; however, they practiced those activities without knowing their impacts on disease control. Cat owners' age, education, occupation, and residence type had a significant (p < .05) association with the practice level against toxoplasmosis. This is the first study highlighting the low level of knowledge among cat owners about toxoplasmosis in Bangladesh. These knowledge gaps could increase the risk and transmission of Toxoplasma gondii infection among them and their families. The survey recommends the arrangement of educational training and programmes to increase the awareness of toxoplasmosis among cat owners.

A review on fish-borne zoonotic parasites in Iran.

Fish is a great nutritious food and provides quality protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals. This contributes significantly to the economy and food security in Iran. However, there are safety concerns related to the presence of zoonotic parasites. The objective of this study is, therefore, to review fish-borne zoonotic parasites in Iran. Keywords such as fish-borne, parasites, zoonotic, Iran, and some names of fish-borne zoonotic parasites were searched in databases including PubMed, Science Direct, Elsevier, SID, Magiran, Irandoc, Google Scholar and the World Health Organization. The most common fish-borne parasites with zoonotic potential identified in reports in the literature were the protozoa Balantidium spp., Myxobolus spp. and Sarcosystis sp.; the trematodes Heterophyes heterophyes and Clinostomum complanatum; the cestodes Ligula intestinalis and Diphyllobothrium latum; the nematodes Pseudoterranova sp., Anisakis spp., Contracaecum spp., Raphidascaris spp., Eustrongylides spp. and Capillaria sp.; and the acanthocephal Corynosoma spp. The potential risk factors for the transmission of fish-borne zoonotic parasites to humans are consumption of raw or undercooked infected fish, contact with contaminated water and contact with infected fish. There is a need for epidemiological surveillance of fish for parasites with zoonotic potential and of occurrence of infections in humans to better understand the public health significance and design prevention programs.

Infection process, viability and establishment of Anisakis simplex s.l. L3 in farmed fish; A histopathological study in gilthead seabream.

Anisakis spp. (Nematoda, Anisakidae) are parasites known by their economic and health impacts, as their L3 larval stages infect a variety of fish species, many of them commercial species, sometimes causing zoonotic episodes due to consumption of raw or undercooked fish. The aim of this study is to determine the infection process and the potential impact of A. simplex s.l. L3 on gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.), one of the most important fish species in Mediterranean aquaculture, by periodic histological monitoring of the infection process. For this, fish were experimentally infected with A. simplex s.l. L3 and periodically analysed for L3 larvae, collecting samples at different time points (hours post ingestion, hpi): 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, 168 and 192, up to 6 months post infection (mpi). All samples were observed under a stereomicroscope and later fixed for histological examination. A. simplex s.l. L3 were only found on the visceral surface and mesenteric tissue, but never free or encapsulated in muscle. Chronological events were found to occur faster than those reported in previous studies. They were first observed 6 hpi in the coelomic cavity, being present up to 48 hpi. While the earliest evidence of fibrocytes surrounding A. simplex s.l. L3 larvae were observed at 18 hpi, complete spiral encapsulation occurred by 72 hpi. Alive parasites were observed up to 6 mpi. Although the infection of gilthead seabream by Anisakis spp. larvae is feasible, it seems unlikely, especially in aquaculture given the hygienically controlled feeding systems. In the event of infection, the transmission would be unlikely due to the poor condition in which specimens of Anisakis spp. are found. Furthermore, since no larvae were detected in the fish’s muscle, human infection seems improbable.

Contracaecum nematode parasites in hillstream loaches of the Western Ghats, India.

Nematode parasites of the family Anisakidae infect definitive hosts, such as fish-eating birds and mammals, through primary intermediate hosts like copepods and secondary intermediate hosts like fishes. However, consumption of raw or undercooked fish can lead to nematode infection called anisakidosis in humans. We observed the presence of nematode infection in hillstream loaches of families Cobitidae and Nemacheilidae available for human consumption in the local markets in the northern parts of Western Ghats, India. Scanning electron micrograph and genetic identification employing mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit II, identified the nematode to the genus Contracaecum. Histology of infected host revealed the presence of the parasite in muscles. Antioxidant enzyme analysis of host liver suggested that infection leads to oxidative stress in the fish. We suspect that a gradual increase in parasite infection of the loaches in the last decade could be attributed to various anthropogenic stressors that are altering riverine habitats. Since loaches are consumed by tribal people who often prepare the fish without degutting and possibly undercooked, there is a potential threat of human infection.

Vibrio parahaemolyticus in fish and shellfish of animal origin from establishments in the port of Chicxulub, Yucatan, Mexico

Introduction: Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a human pathogen that is widely distributed in marine environments. This organism is frequently isolated from a variety of raw seafood products, particularly fish and shellfish. Consumption of raw or undercooked fish and shellfish contaminated with Vibrio parahaemolyticus can lead to the development of acute gastroenteritis characterized by diarrhea, headache, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal cramps. It has also been isolated from wound infections and septicemias. Most cases are non–fatal. This bacterium is recognized as the leading cause of human gastroenteritis associated with fish and shellfish consumption in the United States of America and an important fish and shellfish borne pathogen worldwide. Chile faced its first outbreak in 1997–1998. Subsequently, outbreaks and cases have continued to occur, all associated with the consumption of fish and shellfish. Objective: To determine if raw seafood, marinated without heat, partially cooked with heat and completely cooked with heat that are sold for human consumption in establishments in the port of Chicxulub, Yucatan, Mexico, represent potential risk factors for the development of acute gastroenteritis, wound infection, primary septicemia and secondary septicemia by Vibrio parahaemolyticus species. Material and methods: Study conducted on a representative sample selected from the total of two hundred samples from thirty–eight establishments. From July 1 to December 31, 2021, one hundred thirty two samples of seafood were studied. Using the Cornfield Method, the estimation interval was constructed at the 95% confidence level. Results: In thirty–seven (28.03%) samples an equal number of strains were isolated whose biochemical characteristics corresponded to Vibrio parahaemolyticus. The prevalences obtained in raw marine foods, marinated without heat, partially cooked with heat and completely cooked with heat were 35.59%, 45.45%, 22.45% and 0.00%. The Cornfield estimation interval at the 95% confidence level for Vibrio parahaemolyticus was 13.56% ≤ P ≤ 42.50%. Conclusion: Raw seafood, marinated without heat and partially cooked with heat represent potential risk factors for Vibrio parahaemolyticus for the development of acute gastroenteritis, wound infection, primary septicemia, and secondary septicemia.

Foodborne zoonotic trematode infections in Yen Bai, Vietnam: a situational analysis on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) and risk behaviors.

SummaryIntroductionFoodborne Zoonotic Trematode Infections (FZTi) are neglected tropical diseases of public health concern in Vietnam. The transmission of FZTi is linked to human behavior patterns. The aims to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding FZTi among local people.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted using a mixed method, which included a baseline survey and in-depth interviews. 375 participants were interviewed face-to-face in the survey, and 27 participants had the in-depth interviews.ResultsThe results showed that 36.3% passed the knowledge assessment, 86.7% passed the attitude assessment, and 24% passed the practical assessment. There were differences in average knowledge scores among gender (men higher than women, p = 0.006), ethnicities (Kinh higher than Dao and Tay, p < 0.001), and educational level (higher education, higher knowledge score, p < 0.001). There were differences in the frequency of eating raw fish between men and women (men higher than women, p < 0.001), and in the average practice score between men and women (women higher than men, p = 0.028). Eating raw fish and/or undercooked fish, raw vegetables, and drinking untreated water from Thac Ba lake in Yen Bai province were identified as FZTi risk behaviors. The occurrence of these risky habits can be explained by the lack of knowledge on FZTi, poor economic conditions and typical social features of local people.ConclusionThe current knowledge of local people in regard to safe eating practices is poor. They keep performing unsafe practices, which lead to infection with FZTi; therefore, an integrated control of FZTi is essential.

Anisakis Allergy: Raising Awareness

Ingestion of Anisakis is a common cause of allergic reactions to seafood in countries in which undercooked/raw seafood is part of gastronomic traditions. Despite current trends for the ingestion of raw/marinated/undercooked fish, the prevalence rate of anisakiasis and allergy to Anisakis is still considered to be low in Portugal. We aimed to review the current pathogenic mechanisms, the clinical and diagnostic approach of Anisakis allergy, and Anisakis-related eviction measures, while raising awareness to this problem. Literature search in the MEDLINE and Scopus databases, regarding Anisakis allergy. Assessment of sensitization to Anisakis should be included in the workup study of urticaria/angioedema and anaphylaxis, as there is a rise in consumption of raw and undercooked fish. Ingestion of previously frozen and properly cooked fish appears to be safe for most patients who are allergic to Anisakis.

Parasites with zoonotic potential found in commercially important fish in Tamaulipas, Northeastern Mexico.

Human population is exposed to numerous parasitic ichthyozoonoses. Although Tamaulipas state (northeastern Mexico) is well known for its fishing and aquaculture industry, there are few reports of this type of zoonosis. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate whether the parasites that affect these fish may represent a zoonotic risk for the inhabitants of the area. The objective of this study was to identify molecular and/or morphologically muscle parasites of fish from coastal locations in Tamaulipas, Mexico, and assess the risk of infection for humans. Between 2017 and 2018, 764 individual fish belonging to 28 species were examined for parasites. Collected worms were processed for their identification using morphological characteristics. In addition, partial sequences of the large subunit (28S) ribosomal RNA gene were obtained from some species to corroborate their identity. Prevalence and mean intensity of all registered infections were calculated. A total of seven species of parasites were found: cestodes (Poecilancistrium caryophyllum), trematodes (Clinostomum tataxumui, Clinostomum cichlidorum), nematodes (Eustrongylides sp., Contracaecum sp.) and pentastomids (Sebekia purdieae, Sebekia sp.). Parasites infected 10 species belonging to different fish families (Ariidae, Centrarchidae, Centropomidae, Cichlidae, Eleotridae, Ictaluridae, Mugilidae and Sciaenidae). Congeneric species of parasites or related to those registered in this study have been identified as zoonotic agents in other regions of the world. Despite the low levels of infection (2.6-16.6% prevalence and 1-5.5 parasites per infected host), there is a latent risk of transmission to humans, so it is recommended to avoid eating raw or undercooked fish meat.