Zoonotic Disease In Humans Research Articles

First Cases of Transplacental Transmission of Anaplasma spp. in Gabon: Cases Reports and Brief Review of the Literature

Anaplasma spp. is an emerging human zoonosis, usually transmitted by tick bites. Human-to-human transmission is rare, and transplacental transmission is even less common. No cases of transplacental transmission have been previously reported.We report the cases of patients who were followed up for febrile syndrome diagnosed with maternal-fetal infection and treated with antibiotic therapy and hemodynamic correction. Investigation of the etiology revealed Anaplasma spp. in a neonatal infection.These cases prove that transplacental transmission of Anaplasma spp. is possible and that surveillance is important.

Anti-echinococcal effect of metformin in advanced experimental cystic echinococcosis: reprogrammed intermediary carbon metabolism in the parasite.

Metformin, a safe biguanide derivative with antiproliferative properties, has shown antiparasitic efficacy against the Echinococcus larval stage. Hence, we assessed the efficacy of a dose of 250 mg kg-1 day-1 in experimental models of advanced CE, at 6 and 12 months post-infection with oral and intraperitoneal administration, respectively. At this high dose, metformin reached intracystic concentrations between 0.7 and 1.7 mM and triggered Eg-TOR inhibition through AMPK activation by AMP-independent and -dependent mechanisms, which are dependent on drug dose. Cystic metformin uptake was controlled by increased expression of organic cation transporters in the presence of the drug. In both experimental models, metformin reduced the weight of parasite cysts, altered the ultrastructural integrity of their germinal layers, and reduced the intracystic availability of glucose, limiting the cellular carbon and energy charge and the proliferative capacity of metacestodes. This glucose depletion in the parasite was associated with a slight increase in cystic uptake of 2-deoxiglucose and the transcriptional induction of GLUT genes in metacestodes. In this context, drastic glycogen consumption led to increased lactate production and altered intermediary metabolism in treated metacestodes. Specifically, the fraction of reducing soluble sugars decreased twofold, and the levels of non-reducing soluble sugars, such as sucrose and trehalose, were modified in both cystic fluid and germinal cells. Taken together, our findings highlight the relevance of metformin as a promising candidate for CE treatment and warrant further research to improve the therapeutic conditions of this chronic zoonosis in humans.

Socio-environmental factors associated with small mammal assemblage and Leptospira prevalence in Suburban Areas of Terengganu, Malaysia

Objective: To examine the socio-environmental factors associated with the assemblage of small mammals and the prevalence of Leptospira pathogen in poor suburban communities of Terengganu, Malaysia. Methods: We trapped small mammals from 119 trapping points scattered around three suburban communities of Terengganu using sausage-baited live traps. On the average, we set up five traps for three nights at each sampling point during the trapping period. Kidneys of captured animals were harvested and processed for Leptospira investigation. Additionally, environmental survey was conducted at each trapping point to obtain information about possible variables supporting small mammal assemblage. We used a generalized linear model to evaluate the effect of different socio-environmental variables on small mammals’ assemblage. Results: A total of 89 small mammals, specifically, Rattus norvegicus (n=39), Rattus rattus (n=27), Rattus exulans (n=10), Suncus murinus (n=11), and Tupaia glis (n=2) were captured from 1 385 trap nights. Fourteen individuals (15.7%) of the captured animals tested positive for Leptospira bacteria using PCR detection. Results of our generalized linear model showed only residences bordering vacant lots as the variable positively associated with small mammal occurrence in the three study sites. Conclusions: Small mammal community, especially the often neglected species, could harbour and potentially contribute towards pathogenic Leptospira maintenance in the study sites. To adequately control small mammals’ population and subsequent human zoonoses transmission, it is critical to advocate and promote appropriate infrastructure and suburban services, together with good hygiene practices that can reduce the animals’ access to food and harborage.

Identificación de <i>Leishmania </i>spp en caninos de tres departamentos del centro de Colombia y su correlación clínica

The species Leishmania infantum and L. chagasi are considered causal agents of visceral leishmaniasis, a relevant disease due to its zoonosis and severity in humans. Canines are the main reservoirs, hence the need to implement precise diagnoses to identify the Leishmania species involved. The aim of the study was to perform a molecular diagnosis of leishmaniasis (conventional PCR and Sanger sequencing) in 29 tissue samples from canines clinically suspected of leishmaniasis, previously diagnosed by non-molecular methods. The presence of the parasite could be identified by PCR in 9/29 samples (L. infantum, n=4; L. chagasi, n=4; L. braziliensis, n=1), evidencing a predominance of L. infantum and L. chagasi in canines with cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. The PCR allowed to clarify previously negative diagnoses; however, limitations were found, such as the absence of Leishmania DNA in some samples and the inability to obtain additional samples due to inaccessibility to patients. Despite these limitations, the study highlights the importance of molecular diagnosis to identify the species causing leishmaniasis.

Feasibility, efficacy, and safety of animal-assisted activities with visiting dogs in inpatient pediatric oncology.

Childhood cancer entails a heavy burden for patients and their families. Recent advances in overall survival rates have increasingly brought long-term quality of life into focus. Animal-assisted activities (AAAs) have long been hypothesized to alleviate the burden on pediatric patients and their peers in the hospital setting. However, their use in inpatient pediatric oncology has been a sensitive issue mainly due to the fear of infections, resulting in a lack of studies. This study presents data on the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of AAAs from a single German center. Between 2018 and 2022, 60 patients (median age = 10.3years) diagnosed with malignancy and undergoing treatment were visited by an intervention dog (total visits = 100). Patients were screened for infections as per hospital policy, with additional microbiological testing performed based on symptoms. The dog was screened for human pathogens and zoonoses. Microbial data and hospitalizations were analyzed from twomonths prior to the first visit until twomonths after the last visit. Acceptance of being in the hospital, both with and without planned animal-assisted interventions and pre- and post-intervention state stress, were measured using a validated visual analogue scale (0-10). Patients benefited from AAAs, showing increased acceptance of being in the hospital (median: 7.25 vs. 4.50, P < 0.001) and decreased median state stress ratings one hour after the visit compared to one hour before the visit (1.00 vs. 4.25, P < 0.001). The intervention did not result in an increased number of infections or unplanned hospitalizations, and no zoonoses were detected. All microbial screening tests of the dog were negative. AAAs with visiting dogs in inpatient pediatric oncology are feasible and safe. Although they hold promise for enhancing patients' well-being, further prospective studies are needed. Supplementary file2 (MP4 240076KB).

Phylogenetic analysis of Mycobacterium caprae highlights past and present epidemiological links at the Iberian Peninsula scale

Mycobacterium caprae is linked to regular outbreaks of tuberculosis (TB) in geographically distinct caprine populations across Europe, namely Iberia where this ecovar may represent 8% of total animal TB cases, circulating in multi-host communities encompassing domestic ruminants and wildlife, representing severe financial losses. It also causes zoonotic human disease. In this work, we undertake the first phylodynamic and phylogeographic analyses of M. caprae to reconstruct past demography and transmission chains. First, we examined the worldwide diversity of M. caprae based on 229 unpublished and publicly available whole genome sequences, depicting Asian, Central-East European, and Iberian clades. Phylodynamic analyses of the SB0157 Iberian clade (n=81) positioned the most recent common ancestor in goats, around 100 years ago. Host transition events were common between goats, wild boars, and humans, possibly resulting from mixed farming, extensive management, and close human proximity, facilitating interspecific transmission. We show the spread of M. caprae on multiple scales due to local and transnational animal trade, supporting historical and sustained cross-species transmission in Iberia. We highlight the value of intersecting genomic epidemiology with molecular ecology to resolve epidemiological links and show that an EU-official eradication program in goats is utterly needed to control TB in a multi-host scenario.

Campylobacter: understanding its role as the primary bacterial cause of food-borne illnesses – current state of knowledge

Introduction Campylobacteriosis, caused primarily by Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli, is a significant public health concern worldwide. Since 2007 it has been the most frequently reported zoonotic disease in humans across the European Union. Campylobacteriosis is also the leading cause of bacterial diarrhea. Aim of the study This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, transmission dynamics, diagnostic approaches, and prevention strategies associated with Campylobacter infections. Brief description of the state of knowledge The transmission of Campylobacter spp. typically occurs via the fecal-oral route, with contaminated food, especially poultry, and water serving as common sources of infection. Notably, Campylobacter infections exhibit distinct seasonal patterns and demographic trends, with children and young adults being particularly susceptible. Clinical manifestations range from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to more severe complications, such as reactive arthritis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Diagnosis usually relies on microbiological testing. Some of these methods require specialized cultivation techniques, with challenges posed by the phenotypic diversity of Campylobacter species. Summary Effective surveillance and prevention strategies are essential for mitigating the burden of campylobacteriosis and its associated sequelae on both individual and population health. Current research focuses on improving preventive measures, underscoring the importance of advancing public health strategies, and further studies into the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment options. These efforts are crucial for effectively addressing Campylobacteriosis and reducing its effects on human health and agriculture.

Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. infection in rodents and chickens in Franceville, Gabon.

Cryptosporidium spp. members of the phylum Apicomplexa are obligate protozoan parasites capable of infecting various vertebrate hosts, including rodents and chickens. Infection caused by these parasites may lead to zoonotic diseases in humans. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in rodents and domestic chickens sampled in Franceville, Gabon. Two hundred and eighty-five samples were collected, of which 185 samples were from rodents and 100 from domestic chickens. Microscopy after modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining and nested polymerase chain reaction targeting the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene were used to examine Cryptosporidium spp. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts was 55.8%, with a prevalence of 72.4% in rodents and 25.0% in domestic chickens. Molecular analysis showed that Cryptosporidium spp. were present in 4.0% of the samples. No significant correlation was observed between Cryptosporidium spp. carriage and sex or location in this study. These results indicate that Cryptosporidium spp. persist and circulate in the studied animal species in Franceville, Gabon. Infection with Cryptosporidium is very common in rodents and chickens in Franceville. The potential risk of human contamination cannot be ruled out. More research should be conducted to characterize Cryptosporidium species circulating in rodents and chickens in Gabon. Such studies are essential to better understand the epidemiology of this protozoan and its potential impact on public health.

The Re-Emergence of Mpox: Old Illness, Modern Challenges.

The Mpox virus (MPXV) is known to cause zoonotic disease in humans. The virus belongs to the genus Orthopoxvirus, of the family Poxviridae, and was first reported in monkeys in 1959 in Denmark and in humans in 1970 in the Congo. MPXV first appeared in the U.S. in 2003, re-emerged in 2017, and spread globally within a few years. Wild African rodents are thought to be the reservoir of MPXV. The exotic trade of animals and international travel can contribute to the spread of the Mpox virus. A phylogenetic analysis of MPXV revealed two distinct clades (Central African clade and West African clade). The smallpox vaccine shows cross-protection against MPXV infections in humans. Those who have not previously been exposed to Orthopoxvirus infections are more vulnerable to MPXV infections. Clinical manifestations in humans include fever, muscle pain, headache, and vesicle formation on the skin of infected individuals. Pathognomonic lesions include ballooning degenerations with Guarnieri-like inclusions in vesicular epithelial cells. Alterations in viral genome through genetic mutations might favor the re-emergence of a version of MPXV with enhanced virulence. As of November 2023, 92,783 cases and 171 deaths have been reported in 116 countries, representing a global public health concern. Here, we provide insights on the re-emergence of MPXV in humans. This review covers the origin, emergence, re-emergence, transmission, pathology, diagnosis, control measures, and immunomodulation of the virus, as well as clinical manifestations. Concerted efforts of health professionals and scientists are needed to prevent the disease and stop its transmission in vulnerable populations.

The City as an Evolutionary Hothouse—The Search for Rapid Evolution in Urban Settings

Cities are ubiquitous and, though a novel phenomenon by evolutionary standards, provide a home for many species and exert particularly strong and novel selection pressures on them. They thus offer a unique opportunity to study rapid evolutionary processes. We conducted a scoping review of published studies documenting evolutionary processes in urban environments, focusing primarily on more recent work. Unfortunately, cities have not been attractive environments for biological research and thus remain poorly studied, despite slowly growing interest in recent years. Nonetheless, we found studies documenting the effects of mutation, genetic drift, and selection in cities. However, studies show some geographic bias and were not always as conclusive as might be desired. There is even support for incipient urban speciation. Evidence across the board is less abundant and less conclusive than desirable, suggesting the need for more data collection. The urban setting, with its stronger selection, more common intermixing, and abundance of both human and widespread potential non-human zoonosis hosts and human-associated species offers great opportunities to further document evolution in action and explore its conservation implications.

Immunogenicity and Protective Capacity of Sugar ABC Transporter Substrate-Binding Protein against Streptococcus suis Serotype 2, 7 and 9 Infection in Mice.

Background:Streptococcus suis (S. suis) is a Gram-positive bacterium that causes substantial disease in pigs. S. suis is also an emerging zoonoses in humans, primarily in Asia, through the consumption of undercooked pork and the handling of infected pig meat as well as carcasses. The complexity of S. suis epidemiology, characterized by the presence of multiple bacterial serotypes and strains with diverse sequence types, identifies a critical need for a universal vaccine with the ability to confer cross-protective immunity. Highly conserved immunogenic proteins are generally considered good candidate antigens for subunit universal vaccines. Methods: In this study, the cross-protection of the sugar ABC transporter substrate-binding protein (S-ABC), a surface-associated immunogenic protein of S. suis, was examined in mice for evaluation as a universal vaccine candidate. Results: S-ABC was shown to be highly conserved, with 97% amino acid sequence identity across 31 S. suis strains deposited in GenBank. Recombinantly expressed S-ABC (rS-ABC) was recognized via rabbit sera specific to S. suis serotype 2. The immunization of mice with rS-ABC induced antigen-specific antibody responses, as well as IFN-γ and IL-4, in multiple organs, including the lungs. rS-ABC immunization conferred high (87.5% and 100%) protection against challenges with S. suis serotypes 2 and 9, demonstrating high cross-protection against these serotypes. Protection, albeit lower (50%), was also observed in mice challenged with S. suis serotype 7. Conclusions: These data identify S-ABC as a promising antigenic target within a universal subunit vaccine against S. suis.

Prevalence and molecular characterization of Hysterothylacium species infecting Pandora (Pagellus erythrinus) in the Mediterranean Sea of Egypt

Species of the genus Hysterothylacium are aquatic roundworms (nematodes) belonging to the family Raphidascarididae. Some species in this family are known to be associated with zoonotic diseases in humans after they consume their parasitic larvae in raw or undercooked fish. The aim of this research was to report the prevalence, morphology, and molecular characteristics of Hysterothylacium species in Pagellus erythrinus. A total of Two hundred fish were purchased from the fish market in Damanhour, Beheira Province, between December 2021 and November 2022 and subjected to examination. For molecular characterization, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nuclear ribosomal DNA and the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 2 (COX-2) gene were used. Hysterothylacium species were morphologically described and identified from the intestine of Pagellus erythrinus in Beheira Province, Egypt. The PCR amplified 1087 bp and 629 bp of the target sequences of the ITS region and COX-2 gene, respectively. Sequence analysis revealed the Hysterothylacium thalassini species. The identified species provided novel biological data for the Hysterothylacium nematode in Pagellus erythrinus. The prevalence of Hysterothylacium species recovered from the intestine was 55%. The highest prevalence of 72% has been reported in summer compared to the lowest prevalence of 38% in the winter. Females had a higher prevalence of 61.8% than males, with 44.2%. The first detection, prevalence, and molecular characterization of H. thalassini in Pagellus erythrinus from Beheira Province, Egypt, was presented in this study.

Diversity of ectoparasites of Gallus domesticus, NGOU 1990 (Hens) and Numida meleagris, Linnaeus 1758 (Guinea fowl) reared in extensive system in the Commune of Loumbila, Burkina Faso

In addition to impacting Avian’s zootechnical performance, Ectoparasites, lead to economic declines in Avian’s production. They are also recognized as vectors of zoonotic diseases in humans. This research investigated the ectoparasites of two poultry species, namely Gallus domesticus and Numida meleagris, in a periurban area of Ouagadougou (Loumbila) in Burkina Faso. The study was done from November 2021 to March 2022. The stratified probabilistic method was used for poultry collection. Following each collection, the poultry received a meticulous examination of the body and feathers to detect any ectoparasites. Sixty-five poultry specimens were examined, yielding seven kinds of ectoparasites. The collected ectoparasites consist of two classes: Insects, which include six species (Menopon gallinae, Menacanthus stramineus, Goniodes gigas, Goniocotes gallinae, Lipeurus caponis, and Columbicola columbae). The Mite class was represented by a single species (Argas persicus). The host variety and reproduction mode did not correlate with parasitism. Nevertheless, the prevalence and range of parasitic organisms in poultry differed based on the rearing method. The phenomenon of polyparasitism was noticed in most poultry infected with multiple parasites. Therefore, this could negatively influence the zootechnical quality of chickens and promote the transmission of certain zoonotic diseases.

Stopover habitat selection drives variation in the gut microbiome composition and pathogen acquisition by migrating shorebirds.

Long-distance host movements play a major regulatory role in shaping microbial communities of their digestive tract. Here, we studied gut microbiota composition during seasonal migration in five shorebird species (Charadrii) that use different migratory (stopover) habitats. Our analyses revealed significant interspecific variation in both composition and diversity of gut microbiome, but the effect of host identity was weak. A strong variation in gut microbiota was observed between coastal and inland (dam reservoir and river valley) stopover habitats within species. Comparisons between host age classes provided support for an increasing alpha diversity of gut microbiota during ontogeny and an age-related remodeling of microbiome composition. There was, however, no correlation between microbiome and diet composition across study species. Finally, we detected high prevalence of avian pathogens, which may cause zoonotic diseases in humans (e.g. Vibrio cholerae) and we identified stopover habitat as one of the major axes of variation in the bacterial pathogen exposure risk in shorebirds. Our study not only sheds new light on ecological processes that shape avian gut microbiota, but also has implications for our better understanding of host-pathogen interface and the role of birds in long-distance transmission of pathogens.

How One Health Instrumentalizes Nonhuman Animals.

This article interrogates anthropocentrism and nonhuman animal instrumentalization in One Health (OH). It argues that OH's approach to human health and zoonosis focuses too narrowly on furthering certain human interests at the expense of nonhuman animals, which is not sustainable, just, or compassionate. This article also offers an alternative vision for protecting and promoting health for all over the long term that includes the human right to self-determination and the nonhuman animal right to not be exploited or abused. This rights-based approach recognizes that the root causes of zoonosis should be identified and addressed via policies and actions that challenge nonhuman animal exploitation.

Features of the epidemiological surveillance system of rabies and monkeypox in the Republic of Cameroon

The prevention and control of zoonotic infections remain a problem in most countries. However, this problem has become particularly relevant in recent decades, when the occurrence and pandemic spread of zoonotic diseases have become more frequent. All spheres of the national economy that ensure the fight against infections of this group (healthcare systems, veterinary medicine, and ecology) are trying to jointly find appropriate solutions to ensure antiepidemic protection of the population by taking adequate measures to prevent and combat infectious zoonoses. According to the World Health Organization, the spread of zoonotic infections is observed on all continents, particularly in Asia and Africa. The epidemiological significance of zoonoses depends on their effects on the population (morbidity and mortality), their ability to overcome interspecific barriers, and the individual characteristics of pathogens. It is also influenced by factors such as geographical location, climate, population density, economic growth rates, and development level of private and industrial livestock and poultry farming. The epidemiological surveillance systems in Cameroon are compared with the surveillance system in Russia and with the standards set by international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The emergence and spread of current zoonotic infections in the Republic of Cameroon are presented. The study showed the geographical, social, administrative, economic, and health characteristics of Cameroon, which may influence the emergence and spread of infectious zoonosis in the country. Zoonotic diseases have only begun to receive special attention in Cameroon’s health system in 2014–2016, following an outbreak of monkeypox (mpox) in Cameroon. Moreover, the study described the epidemiological surveillance system and a classification of epidemic events monitored by the Cameroon Disease, Epidemic and Pandemic Control Authority. In general, the surveillance system for human and animal zoonoses in Cameroon was designed to ensure a rapid response during an epidemic. However, some shortcomings exist, such as low data for some zoonotic diseases and insufficient or virtually nonexistent surveillance in some regions of the country. To intensify the fight against the epidemic spread of these zoonotic infections, the capacity of health workers and technical means for detection and monitoring must be improved. The update of the national vaccination schedule should consider diseases such as rabies, given its endemic nature in the country; this may be possible through the establishment of a service or office responsible for surveillance, detection, and response to infectious zoonotic diseases.

Inter-strain variability on the cardinal parameters (pH and Aw) of clinical and food isolates of Listeria monocytogenes using turbidimetric measurements

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen which, in 2021, was considered the fifth most commonly reported zoonosis in humans in the European Union (EU). Ready-to-eat (RTE) fishery products, deli meats or soft cheeses have been mostly involved in food safety alerts and outbreaks in the last years. Hurdle technology by food industries has been widely used to enhance the safety of foods. Among the barriers, the application of acid and osmotic stress during processing is extensively used worldwide. This study aims to gain knowledge about the inter-strain variability of twenty-six clinical and food L. monocytogenes isolates with the estimation of their cardinal parameters using turbidimetric measurements. To analyse the data and to obtain the estimated cardinal values, a common statistical procedure was set up. The estimation of cardinal parameters showed a high inter-strain variability of L. monocytogenes, and no correlation was observed between Aw min and pHmin values for the studied strains. By grouping the strains in clinical, meat and fish origin, it was observed that strains from the meat group presented the lowest average pHmin values (4.57), thus showing potential acid adaptation. This work contributes to gain knowledge of the inter-strain variability of L. monocytogenes in relation with pH and Aw cardinal values, as well as provide a starting point for future validation studies in fish and meat food matrices.

The European Union One Health 2022 Zoonoses Report.

This report by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control presents the results of the zoonoses monitoring and surveillance activities carried out in 2022 in 27 Member States (MSs), the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) and 11 non-MSs. Key statistics on zoonoses and zoonotic agents in humans, food, animals and feed are provided and interpreted historically. In 2022, the first and second most reported zoonoses in humans were campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis, respectively. The number of cases of campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis remained stable in comparison with 2021. Nineteen MSs and the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) achieved all the established targets in poultry populations for the reduction of Salmonella prevalence for the relevant serovars. Salmonella samples from carcases of various animal species, and samples for Campylobacter quantification from broiler carcases, were more frequently positive when performed by the competent authorities than when own checks were conducted. Yersiniosis was the third most reported zoonosis in humans, followed by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Listeria monocytogenes infections. L. monocytogenes and West Nile virus infections were the most severe zoonotic diseases, with the most hospitalisations and highest case fatality rates. In 2022, reporting showed an increase of more than 600% compared with 2021 in locally acquired cases of human West Nile virus infection, which is a mosquito-borne disease. In the EU, the number of reported foodborne outbreaks and cases, hospitalisations and deaths was higher in 2022 than in 2021. The number of deaths from outbreaks was the highest ever reported in the EU in the last 10 years, mainly caused by L. monocytogenes and to a lesser degree by Salmonella. Salmonella and in particular S. Enteritidis remained the most frequently reported causative agent for foodborne outbreaks. Norovirus (and other calicivirus) was the agent associated with the highest number of outbreak human cases. This report also provides updates on brucellosis, Coxiella burnetii (Q fever), echinococcosis, rabies, toxoplasmosis, trichinellosis, infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (focusing on Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium caprae) and tularaemia.

Cystic echinococcosis in humans and ruminants in Portugal: a one health approach

Abstract Background Cystic echinococcosis or hydatid disease is an important parasitic zoonosis for public health, although neglected. Despite being a mandatory notification disease both in humans and animals, data in Portugal are almost absent. A collaborative One Health retrospective nationwide study was conducted, bringing together the expertise of public health doctors, veterinarians and epidemiologists. Methods Human hospitalizations caused by cystic echinococcosis and slaughterhouse records of echinococcosis from bovine, ovine and caprine species were obtained. Poisson loglinear regression model was used. Occurrence maps were generated combining animal and human cases. Results From 2008 to 2022, 298 cases of echinococcosis were identified in post-mortem inspection in Portuguese slaughterhouses (bovines n = 125, ovines=288 cases, caprines n = 14). Between 2008 and 2018, cystic echinococcosis caused 582 hospitalizations in Portuguese public hospital, with an average length of 11 (± 15.66) days, resulting in 13 deaths (2.23%). Alentejo was the region with the highest hospitalizations. For every infected animal, a 7% increase in the incidence rate of human hospitalization was found (p = 0.002, Exp(B)=1.070, 95% CI: 1.025 - 1.117). Residing in the Alentejo increased the incidence rate of human hospitalizations by 5.3 times when compared to other regions (p = 0.000, Exp(B)=5.290, 95% CI: 3.835 - 7.296). For every 100,000 person-years, there was a total of 0.528 hospitalizations and the risk of death from echinococcosis was 8 times higher for those living in the Alentejo (p &amp;lt; 0.001, Exp(B)=8.259, 95% CI: 2.427 - 28.106). Conclusions Living in the Alentejo region has shown to be a high-risk factor for echinococcosis. This work gives an accurate recognition of the situation in Portugal, allowing the development of effective health control and education programs to face an important but neglected zoonotic disease under a One Health approach. Key messages • Considering that echinococcosis is still one of the 20 neglected tropical diseases of global health importance, is critical to map and monitor its prevalence and trends. • This study highlights the impact of this neglected zoonosis in humans and livestock, allowing the identification of the most problematic areas for echinococcosis in Portugal.

Leptospira transcriptome sequencing using long-read technology reveals unannotated transcripts and potential polyadenylation of RNA molecules.

Leptospirosis, caused by the spirochete bacteria Leptospira, is an emerging zoonosis that causes life-threatening disease in humans and animals. However, a comprehensive understanding of leptospiral RNA profiles is limited. In this study, we sequenced and analyzed the transcriptome of multiple Leptospira strains using Oxford Nanopore Technologies' direct cDNA and direct RNA sequencing methods. We identified new operons, RNA molecules, and evidence of potential posttranscriptional polyadenylation in Leptospira transcriptomes. Some RNA molecules that had not been previously annotated could be potential sRNA or noncoding RNA molecules that play a role in gene expression regulation in Leptospira. Interestingly, the majority of the new RNA molecules identified in this study were not detected in the nonpathogenic Leptospira, suggesting potential virulence-related functions for these molecules. Overall, our study highlights the utility of Oxford Nanopore Technologies's sequencing in studying prokaryotic transcriptome profiles and offers a tool to improve our understanding of prokaryotic RNA landscapes and polyadenylation. Nonetheless, the findings from our study also warrant that the presence of homopolymers of adenine bases in the transcripts may interfere with the interpretation of bacterial transcriptome profiles. Carefully designed experiments are needed to explore the role of the features described in this study in Leptospira virulence and pathogenesis. IMPORTANCE Leptospirosis, caused by the spirochete bacteria Leptospira, is a zoonotic disease of humans and animals, accounting for over 1 million annual human cases and over 60,000 deaths. We have characterized operon transcriptional units, identified novel RNA coding regions, and reported evidence of potential posttranscriptional polyadenylation in the Leptospira transcriptomes for the first time using Oxford Nanopore Technology RNA sequencing protocols. The newly identified RNA coding regions and operon transcriptional units were detected only in the pathogenic Leptospira transcriptomes, suggesting their significance in virulence-related functions. This article integrates bioinformatics, infectious diseases, microbiology, molecular biology, veterinary sciences, and public health. Given the current knowledge gap in the regulation of leptospiral pathogenicity, our findings offer valuable insights to researchers studying leptospiral pathogenicity and provide both a basis and a tool for researchers focusing on prokaryotic molecular studies for the understanding of RNA compositions and prokaryotic polyadenylation for their organisms of interest.