Journal Description
Zoonotic Diseases
Zoonotic Diseases
- formerly Zoonoses - is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on various infectious diseases transmitted between animals and humans, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free to download, share, and reuse content. Authors receive recognition for their contribution when the paper is reused.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 27.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Zoonotic Diseases is a companion journal of Animals, Viruses and Pathogens.
Latest Articles
Global Distribution and Molecular Evolution of Bat Coronaviruses
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(2), 146-161; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4020014 - 14 May 2024
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Bat coronaviruses cause a wide range of illnesses in humans and animals. Bats are known to harbor a wide diversity of Alphacoronaviruses and Betacoronaviruses. Betacoronaviruses have been linked to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), and other diseases such
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Bat coronaviruses cause a wide range of illnesses in humans and animals. Bats are known to harbor a wide diversity of Alphacoronaviruses and Betacoronaviruses. Betacoronaviruses have been linked to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), and other diseases such as gastroenteritis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. In the last 20 years, three betacoronaviruses emerged and caused widespread outbreaks in humans, including two deadly betacoronavirus epidemics, SARS-CoV, with mortality rate of 10%, and MERS-CoV, with mortality rate of 34.7%, and SARS-CoV-2, which caused the COVID-19 pandemic, with mortality rate of 3.4%. Studies have shown that bats are the main natural reservoirs for these viruses or their ancestral viruses. Observed variations in bat coronavirus genomes indicate that these viruses may have a potential to transmit to other hosts in close contact with humans and subsequently transmit to humans. As of today, there are no reported cases of direct coronavirus transmission from bats to humans. One reason for this might be that intermediate hosts are required for the transmission of bat coronaviruses to humans. Further studies are needed to map the amino acids and genomic regions responsible for the interactions between the spike of coronavirus and its receptors.
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Open AccessArticle
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Human Taenia solium Cysticercosis in Mbulu District, Northern Tanzania
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Vedasto Bandi, Bernard Ngowi, Emmanuel Mpolya, Andrew Martin Kilale and John-Mary Vianney
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(2), 135-145; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4020013 - 3 May 2024
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Background: Taeniosis and cysticercosis are human infections caused by the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. This study is a baseline for community-based intervention. We determined the prevalence of human cysticercosis and associated risk factors following a deworming program conducted throughout the country, with
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Background: Taeniosis and cysticercosis are human infections caused by the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. This study is a baseline for community-based intervention. We determined the prevalence of human cysticercosis and associated risk factors following a deworming program conducted throughout the country, with Mbulu District being among the districts in Northern Tanzania. Methods: Human cysticercosis was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Ag- ELISA). Household interviews and observations were conducted to identify risk factors for cysticercosis transmissions among households and communities. Results: Three hundred individuals participated in this study. The age ranged from 5 to 89 years, with a median of 19 years. The prevalence of human cysticercosis was 23 (7.67%). The prevalence was high with 6 (11.76%) among individuals aged 26 to 35 years and ±45 years. There was no statistically significant difference in the prevalence by age group, sex, or occupation. Among the 300 participants, 82 (27.3%) had received anthelmintics during the previous year; among these, 5 (21.7%) were infected. The likelihood of infection was low among anthelmintic users by 28% [0.72 (0.26–2.01)], but the protection was not significant. The communities differed in risk factors on the availability of a clean and safe water supply; 52.7% (46/86) of households visited had no pit latrine. The cysticercosis prevalence showed a significant difference in communities. Conclusions: The prevalence of human cysticercosis was high and associated with higher age groups. The prevalence was low among those who had taken anthelmintics and was associated with lower age groups. The current school deworming program has a positive effect on school children, while the elderly are at higher risk because the intervention did not target them. It is recommended to scale up anthelmintic intervention to higher age groups.
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Open AccessArticle
A Zoonotic Strain of Rocahepevirus ratti Hepatitis E Virus Does Not Replicate Efficiently within Human Placental JEG-3 Cells
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Kush Kumar Yadav, Jacob D. Hofstetter and Scott P. Kenney
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(2), 123-134; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4020012 - 3 Apr 2024
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Paslahepevirus balayani and Rocahepevirus ratti are genetically diverse species of hepatitis E virus [HEV]. Previously, only members of the Paslahepevirus genus were known to infect humans but recently some Rocahepevirus members have been found to be infectious to both immunocompromised and immunocompetent humans. Paslahepevirus
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Paslahepevirus balayani and Rocahepevirus ratti are genetically diverse species of hepatitis E virus [HEV]. Previously, only members of the Paslahepevirus genus were known to infect humans but recently some Rocahepevirus members have been found to be infectious to both immunocompromised and immunocompetent humans. Paslahepevirus balayani genotypes (gt) 1, 2, and 4 are known for their detrimental effects during pregnancy, causing pregnancy-related disorders. Recent findings have demonstrated the ability of Paslahepevirus balayani gt3 to replicate within placental cell lines, suggesting a direct effect on the placenta and fetus. To study whether zoonotic rat HEV strains possess a similar human-host placental tropism, we utilized JEG-3 cells to understand the replicative ability of an infectious clone of a recently reported strain of Rocahepevirus ratti, the LCK-3110 strain. Infectious cDNA clones of Pasla-, Avi-, and Rocahepevirus were transcribed and then, transduced into JEG-3 cells. Cells were harvested, and cell lysates were used for testing infectivity. Five days post-transfection or after inoculation onto naive HepG2/C3A cells, the cells were analyzed for infection. Replication in transduced JEG-3 cells and the infection potential in HepG2/C3A cells were assessed via an indirect immunofluorescence assay and a flow-cytometry assay. We found that the Rocahepevirus ratti LCK-3110 strain did not have efficient replication in JEG-3 cell cultures.
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Open AccessBrief Report
Canine Leishmaniasis in Southern Brazil: Diagnosis and Clinical Features in Domestic Dogs
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Aline Padilha de Fraga, Vinicius Proença da Silveira, Patrícia de Freitas Salla, Fernanda Gass de Oliveira Goulart, André Felipe Streck, Vagner Reinaldo Zingalli Bueno Pereira, Lauren Santos de Mello, André Salvador Kazantzi Fonseca, Nilo Ikuta and Vagner Ricardo Lunge
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 114-122; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010011 - 21 Mar 2024
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Leishmania infantum is a hemopathogen of importance for the health of domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), causing canine leishmaniasis (CanL), and it is also the etiological agent of human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL). This parasite was not reported in southern Brazil until
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Leishmania infantum is a hemopathogen of importance for the health of domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), causing canine leishmaniasis (CanL), and it is also the etiological agent of human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL). This parasite was not reported in southern Brazil until the early 2000s, but CanL and HVL were increasingly reported in the last 15 years, mainly in cities bordering Argentina. The present study aimed to detect L. infantum in domestic dogs and to determine the main clinical manifestations in infected animals from Uruguaiana, a city with a high incidence of CanL. Fifty-one dogs suspected of having CanL in the urban perimeter of the city were clinically examined by veterinarians and investigated for the occurrence of L. infantum with two immunoassays (rapid chromatography test and ELISA) and real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction). Clinical signs were compared in positive and negative L. infantum animals. A total of 31 dogs (60.8%) were infected with L. infantum. The main clinical manifestations associated with CanL dogs were onychogryphosis and peeling (p < 0.05). L. infantum was frequently detected in urban dogs from Uruguaiana, highlighting the concerning situation regarding health in this city. The occurrence of some clinical signs (onychogryphosis/peeling) could help to detect CanL more frequently in the canine population.
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Open AccessReview
Bacterial Zoonotic Diseases and Male Reproduction
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Lateef Olabisi Okeleji, Lydia Oluwatoyin Ajayi, Aduragbemi Noah Odeyemi, Victor Amos, Bosede Grace Akanbi, Moyinoluwa Comfort Onaolapo, Bolade Sylvester Olateju, Wale Johnson Adeyemi and Ayodeji Folorunsho Ajayi
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 97-113; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010010 - 19 Mar 2024
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Bacterial zoonotic diseases hold significant public health importance due to their substantial contribution to human morbidity and mortality. These infections have been implicated in reducing the fertility rate among couples of reproductive age. Despite the increasing prevalence of infertility and sub-fertility in men,
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Bacterial zoonotic diseases hold significant public health importance due to their substantial contribution to human morbidity and mortality. These infections have been implicated in reducing the fertility rate among couples of reproductive age. Despite the increasing prevalence of infertility and sub-fertility in men, there has been limited investigation into the possible effects of bacterial zoonotic infections on the male reproductive system. The purpose of this review is to describe common bacterial zoonotic diseases and their effects on human reproduction in order to unveil the hidden roles these infections could play in male factor infertility. While there is a dearth of information on this subject from human studies, available evidence from experimental animals suggests that bacterial zoonotic diseases impair male reproductive functions and structures primarily through the activation of the inflammatory response and distortion of the antioxidant system, resulting in the generation of oxidative species. In light of the limited research on bacterial zoonotic diseases and their role in male reproduction, efforts must be directed towards the subject to unravel the underlying pathological mechanisms and reduce the incidence among the human populace, either through preventive or curative measures.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zoonotic Diseases: Understanding the Intersection between Animal and Human Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Testing the Functionality of Joint Zoonotic Disease Electronic Surveillance and Reporting Systems through a Pandemic Influenza Full-Scale Simulation Exercise in Jordan
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Rebecca Badra, Alaa Hamdallah, Nour Abu Elizz, Majid Hawawsheh, Heba Mahrous, Amgad Abdalla Elkholy, Abdinasir Abubakar, Mohammad Alhawarat, Lora Alsawalha and Ghazi Kayali
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 86-96; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010009 - 29 Feb 2024
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Zoonotic disease surveillance and response simulation exercises are an important tool to assess national infrastructures and mechanisms supporting joint zoonotic disease surveillance and information sharing across sectors. In December 2022, the Jordanian Ministries of Health and Agriculture, supported by the World Health Organization
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Zoonotic disease surveillance and response simulation exercises are an important tool to assess national infrastructures and mechanisms supporting joint zoonotic disease surveillance and information sharing across sectors. In December 2022, the Jordanian Ministries of Health and Agriculture, supported by the World Health Organization Country Office, conducted a 10-day full-scale simulation exercise in Amman, Jordan, to evaluate the linkage between their electronic surveillance and response systems. An exercise management team designed a realistic fictitious scenario of an outbreak of avian influenza on a poultry farm that subsequently led to human infections. The functions and actions tested included all aspects of outbreak management, from initial reporting to conclusion. Debriefings and an after-action review were conducted after the activities were completed. Gaps in both ministries’ surveillance systems, epidemiological investigations, biosafety and biosecurity, sample collection, sample transport, laboratories, interventions, and coordination were identified. This simulation exercise was a unique exercise focusing on multiple technical and operational capacities that related to the joint response to potential zoonotic disease outbreaks and real-time information sharing between the sectors under the One Health approach. This exercise is a step towards the operationalization of the One Health approach in Jordan, building on the coordination mechanisms already in place.
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Open AccessArticle
Occurrence of Picobirnavirus in Domestic and Wild Animals from Three Cities of Brazilian Amazon
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Elaine Hellen Nunes Chagas, Julia Rezende da Silva, Bruno de Cássio Veloso de Barros, José Wandilson Barbosa Duarte Júnior, Fabiolla da Silva dos Santos, Edivaldo Costa Sousa Júnior, Delana Andreza Melo Bezerra, Maria Inês dos Santos, Helder Henrique Costa Pinheiro, Yashpal Singh Malik and Joana D’Arc Pereira Mascarenhas
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 74-85; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010008 - 20 Feb 2024
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This study aimed to detect picobirnavirus (PBV) in the fecal samples of wild and domestic animals from 2014 to 2016 in the Amazon biome. Fecal samples from different animals, including birds (n = 41) and mammals (n = 217), were used.
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This study aimed to detect picobirnavirus (PBV) in the fecal samples of wild and domestic animals from 2014 to 2016 in the Amazon biome. Fecal samples from different animals, including birds (n = 41) and mammals (n = 217), were used. The PAGE test showed negativity for PBV. However, 32 samples (12.4%, 32/258) showed positive results in RT-PCR analyses. Among the positive samples, pigs and cats, both with 28.12% (9/32), registered the highest frequencies. In a phylogenetic analysis, eight sequences from positive samples were grouped in the Genogroup 1 of PBV (PBV GI). PBV occurrence was significantly related to cats and pigs but not other mammals or birds, independently of their geographical origin. A nucleotide analysis demonstrated similarity among the feline group but the absence of a defined structure between the clades. PBVs are highly widespread viruses that can affect the most diverse types of hosts in the Amazon biome, including humans.
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Open AccessArticle
Basis for a One Health Approach—Inventory of Routine Data Collections on Zoonotic Diseases in Lower Saxony, Germany
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Anne Schnepf, Katja Hille, Gesine van Mark, Tristan Winkelmann, Karen Remm, Katrin Kunze, Reinhard Velleuer and Lothar Kreienbrock
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 57-73; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010007 - 6 Feb 2024
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Two-thirds of human infectious diseases are zoonotic diseases and routine data collections exist for each sector (human, veterinary, environmental). However, these operate separately and the collected data are not integrated across sectors. Publicly available information on these routine data collections in terms of
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Two-thirds of human infectious diseases are zoonotic diseases and routine data collections exist for each sector (human, veterinary, environmental). However, these operate separately and the collected data are not integrated across sectors. Publicly available information on these routine data collections in terms of metadata and the information collected is sparse. The aim was to create an inventory of routine data collections in the Federal State of Lower Saxony, Germany. A systematic screening of existing routine data collections from the human and veterinary sectors on zoonotic infectious diseases was carried out on the basis of expert interviews. A standardised template was used to collect relevant metadata on data collections and pathogens they contain. The template was transferred to Research Electronic Data Capture tools. We recorded metadata for 19 veterinary, 16 human and 2 other data collections, and for 69 different zoonotic pathogens. The frequencies of a selection of metadata were analysed descriptively. The data collections, which served different purposes, differed, e.g., in underlying population and sampling strategy, export format and access to the original data. We identified challenges for integrated analyses of data from different collections, which need to be addressed to develop a One Health monitoring and surveillance system.
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Open AccessCommunication
West Nile Virus in Italy: An Update of the Viral Strains Circulating in the Late 2022 Epidemic Season
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Fabrizia Valleriani, Andrea Polci, Federica Iapaolo, Ottavio Portanti, Maura Pisciella, Antonella Cersini, Annalisa Guercio, Irene Del Lesto, Valentina Curini, Luana Fiorella Mincarelli, Francesca Gucciardi, Claudio De Liberato, Giuseppa Purpari, Giorgia Amatori, Daniela Morelli, Giovanni Savini and Federica Monaco
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 49-56; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010006 - 5 Feb 2024
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West Nile virus (WNV) (Flaviviridae, Flavivirus) infection is a mosquito-borne zoonosis able of causing disease and death in humans and animals. Over the past decade, WNV infections have been a significant public health concern in Europe, and Italy has been among the most
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West Nile virus (WNV) (Flaviviridae, Flavivirus) infection is a mosquito-borne zoonosis able of causing disease and death in humans and animals. Over the past decade, WNV infections have been a significant public health concern in Europe, and Italy has been among the most affected countries since 2008. The 2022 vector season has been characterized by an intense and early circulation of WNV. This report describes cases of co-circulation of WNV L1 and of WNV L2 occurring at the end of the 2022 vector season in Sicily and Tuscany, regions where no strains had ever been sequenced. The phylogenetic analysis of the detected strains confirmed the peculiar WNV scenario that has characterized the Italian West Nile disease (WND) epidemic since its appearance. The circulation observed in Tuscany was in fact a consequence of the spread of endemic strains to new areas while the Sicilian episodes were linked to new introductions of WNV L1 and L2 strains likely from other European countries.
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Open AccessArticle
The Prevalence of Leptospira Serovars in African Giant Pouched Rats (Cricetomys spp.) from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
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Prisca N. Kahangwa, Amani S. Kitegile, Robert S. Machang’u, Ginethon G. Mhamphi and Abdul S. Katakweba
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 37-48; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010005 - 23 Jan 2024
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Leptospirosis, also known as Weil’s disease, is a febrile tropical disease of humans and diverse animals. The maintenance hosts of the infectious pathogen, Leptospira spp., are primarily rodents, while other warm-blooded animals and some reptiles are secondary or transient hosts of this pathogen.
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Leptospirosis, also known as Weil’s disease, is a febrile tropical disease of humans and diverse animals. The maintenance hosts of the infectious pathogen, Leptospira spp., are primarily rodents, while other warm-blooded animals and some reptiles are secondary or transient hosts of this pathogen. African giant pouched rats (Cricetomys spp.) have been identified to be important maintenance hosts of pathogenic leptospires in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. This study assessed the seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in the African giant pouched rats of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), Tanzania, where there is close human, domestic animal, and wildlife interaction. A total of 50 African giant pouched rats were sampled between July 2020 and December 2021. Blood sera were screened for specific leptospiral antibodies using a microscopic agglutination test (MAT), while urine and kidney tissues were examined for the pathogen and pathogen-specific genes using cultures and polymerase chain reactions (PCR), respectively. The pathogen detection varied from 0% in cultures to 6% via the MAT and 20% via PCR. The Fisher exact test was applied to compare positive cases detected through the diagnostic tests, and showed a significant difference in the indirect and direct detection of Leptospira serovars via the MAT and PCR. We conclude that pathogenic Leptospira serovar are found in the NCA and recommend that the NCA authority raises awareness of the existence of the Leptospira serovar in giant African pouched rats, and possibly other rodents. The NCA should initiate appropriate management strategies, including the guided disposal of household garbage, which is the major attractant of rodents to residential areas. Where necessary, the NCA should carry out limited rodent control and periodic monitoring of the pathogen carrier (rodent) populations.
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Open AccessArticle
“Small Wins” for those with Lyme Disease in Canada: Patients in an Embodied Health Movement
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Marilyn Cox and Mario Levesque
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 22-36; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010004 - 22 Jan 2024
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Lyme disease patient organizations have formed to challenge a health system that is failing Canadians who suffer from a disease that is ambiguous in its symptomology and trajectory. The framework of an embodied health movement illustrates the importance of the illness experience in
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Lyme disease patient organizations have formed to challenge a health system that is failing Canadians who suffer from a disease that is ambiguous in its symptomology and trajectory. The framework of an embodied health movement illustrates the importance of the illness experience in mobilizing patients to oppose a system that is reliant on restrictive guidelines that deny testing and treatment and to seek alliances with researchers, physicians, and politicians who are sympathetic to their goals. The strategies of Lyme disease patient organizations, the importance of experiential knowledge, and the roles of both adversaries and allies are examined through a “small wins” approach to gauge successes and setbacks within a Canadian context.
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Open AccessArticle
Dominance of Diarrheagenic E. coli Virulent Types in Integrated Crop–Livestock Farms and Their Antibiotic Resistance Patterns
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Arpita Aditya, Dita Julianingsih, Zajeba Tabashsum, Zabdiel Alvarado-Martinez, Chuan-Wei Tung, Matthew Wall and Debabrata Biswas
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 11-21; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010003 - 12 Jan 2024
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Microbial ecology on integrated crop–livestock farms (ICLFs) can impact food safety through pathogen transfer between animals and crops. Recent reports of pathogen-contaminated products sold in local organic retail, roadside, and farmers markets highlight the need for assessment of the ecological patterns of bacterial
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Microbial ecology on integrated crop–livestock farms (ICLFs) can impact food safety through pathogen transfer between animals and crops. Recent reports of pathogen-contaminated products sold in local organic retail, roadside, and farmers markets highlight the need for assessment of the ecological patterns of bacterial pathogens. This study investigated the prevalence and antibiotic resistance of the virulent type of diarrheagenic E. coli in ICLFs. Over two years, 2973 samples from ICLFs and markets in Maryland and Washington DC were analyzed. Diarrheagenic E. coli was found in 4.30% (128/2973) of collected samples, with a higher isolation rate in environmental (4.42%, 59/1332) and produce (4.20%, 69/1641) samples. Overall, livestock bedding materials had the highest prevalence (8.51%, 4/47). Post-harvest produce exhibited a lower contamination rate of 1.32% (10/756), whereas pre-harvest produce had a higher incidence with 6.67% contamination (59/885), indicating the presence of E. coli. Alarmingly, 92.30% (72/78) of pathogenic E. coli isolates were resistant to common antibiotics. The findings highlight potential risks associated with integrated farming practices and emphasize the importance of safe harvesting and post-harvesting measures, particularly in the context of the growing popularity of local integrated farming. Implementing precautions at on-farm and market levels is crucial to mitigate the risk of antibiotic-resistant E. coli-related enteric illnesses, safeguarding both consumers and the integrity of integrated farming systems.
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Open AccessEditorial
Zoonoses: Changing, Challenging, and Increasing Global Disease Threats
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Stephen K. Wikel
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 8-10; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010002 - 1 Jan 2024
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The public awareness of zoonotic pathogens as well as the threats they pose to global public health have grown significantly, since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemic [...]
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Open AccessCase Report
Rabies Exposure from Infected Horse Bite in an Urban Setting: A Case Study from Mongolia
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Doniddemberel Altantogtokh, Bazartseren Boldbaatar, Graham Matulis, Abigail A. Lilak, Nyamdorj Tsogbadrakh, Bayasgalan Chimedtseren, Khatanbold Ariunbold and Michael E. von Fricken
Zoonotic Dis. 2024, 4(1), 1-7; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis4010001 - 20 Dec 2023
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Rabies is a highly fatal zoonotic disease that causes an estimated 60,000 human deaths each year, many of which occur in Africa and Asia where the disease is likely underreported. Uncontrolled transmission of rabies presents a major threat to public health in countries
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Rabies is a highly fatal zoonotic disease that causes an estimated 60,000 human deaths each year, many of which occur in Africa and Asia where the disease is likely underreported. Uncontrolled transmission of rabies presents a major threat to public health in countries such as Mongolia, where 26% of the population lives a pastoralist lifestyle characterized by increased interaction with livestock animals. Here, we report a case of rabies exposure in a six-year-old male after being bitten by a horse in both the head region and the leg. At the suspicion of rabies, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) was initiated, with the patient receiving four doses of PEP vaccine as well as a single treatment of rabies immunoglobulin. The horse was later confirmed to be rabies-positive through rapid antigen testing and RT-PCR. Human rabies exposure from horses is unusual within Mongolia, given that historically over 70% of human rabies cases within the country are attributed to dogs, wolves, or foxes. This case further emphasizes the need for more routine vaccination of domestic animals within Mongolia. Additionally, animal bites, even from animals not frequently associated with rabies, should be treated as possible rabies exposure events.
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Open AccessArticle
Ticks and Tick-Borne Zoonotic Pathogens from Wild Birds in Northwestern Coastal Spain
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Alberto Espí, Ana del Cerro, Paloma Peón-Torre, José Vicente González-Escudero and Aitor Somoano
Zoonotic Dis. 2023, 3(4), 316-333; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis3040026 - 7 Nov 2023
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Migratory and local birds may disperse ticks and their associated pathogens. The aim of this study was to provide information regarding ticks infesting birds in Asturias, a region that accounts for most of the Lyme disease hospitalizations in Spain. From September 2021 to
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Migratory and local birds may disperse ticks and their associated pathogens. The aim of this study was to provide information regarding ticks infesting birds in Asturias, a region that accounts for most of the Lyme disease hospitalizations in Spain. From September 2021 to April 2023, trained and experienced bird-banders collected ticks from birds in two estuary and four forest locations. A total of 1698 birds (52 species, 38 genera, and 26 families) were captured. A total of 51 ticks (28 larvae, 20 nymphs, and 3 females) were collected from 43 birds, belonging to three species: Ixodes ricinus (31), Ixodes frontalis (18), and Haemaphysalis concinna (1). The average prevalence of tick infestation was 2.5% and the average tick burden was 1.2 ticks per infested host. The bird species Turdus merula, Parus major, Luscinia svecica, and Anthus pratensis were among the most infested. Anaplasma phagocytophilum was detected in one I. ricinus nymph collected from Phylloscopus collybita. We have not detected Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., Rickettsia spp., Coxiella burnetii, or piroplasmids in any of the 51 analyzed ticks. These results suggest low infestation rate in migratory/estuary birds and a higher rate in forest/sedentary ones. Despite this, the detection of pathogens, although with low prevalence, can pose a risk to public health.
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Open AccessArticle
Hygiene Knowledge and Practices of Portuguese Hunters Using Wild Boar Meat for Private Consumption
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Ana Carolina Abrantes, João Canotilho and Madalena Vieira-Pinto
Zoonotic Dis. 2023, 3(4), 307-315; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis3040025 - 1 Nov 2023
Abstract
The microbiological contamination of wild boar meat depends on the hygiene practices that hunters apply during its preparation, from the point of collection to its refrigeration. This study assesses Portuguese hunters’ knowledge of hygiene practices when handling wild boar carcasses that can jeopardise
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The microbiological contamination of wild boar meat depends on the hygiene practices that hunters apply during its preparation, from the point of collection to its refrigeration. This study assesses Portuguese hunters’ knowledge of hygiene practices when handling wild boar carcasses that can jeopardise meat safety. A general structured survey entitled “Private consumption of game meat and good hygiene practices” was distributed to Portuguese hunters. Of the 206 respondents, 95% use wild boar meat for private consumption without prior inspection or initial examination by a veterinarian. This study also revealed that the vast majority of respondents have several risky practices that can compromise the safety of wild boar meat consumed (evisceration, handling, refrigeration, and transport). It is also evident that there is a lack of knowledge related to recognising lesions compatible with zoonotic infections in the hunted animals. These inappropriate knowledge and practices can pose a risk to hunters (occupational zoonotic health) and consumers (foodborne diseases). To reduce this risk, hunters need to be trained and informed about proper game meat handling practices.
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Open AccessCommunication
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Slaughtered Pigs in Kiambu, Kenya
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Dorcas Chepyatich, Derrick Noah Sentamu, Nicholas Bor, Joshua Onono, Peter Baaro Gathura, James M. Akoko and Lian Francesca Thomas
Zoonotic Dis. 2023, 3(4), 301-306; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis3040024 - 13 Oct 2023
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous protozoan parasite of public health concern, with severe health consequences among immunocompromised individuals and pregnant mothers. Pigs are intermediate hosts of this zoonotic parasite and consumption of undercooked pork is a risk factor for T. gondii infection. We
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Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous protozoan parasite of public health concern, with severe health consequences among immunocompromised individuals and pregnant mothers. Pigs are intermediate hosts of this zoonotic parasite and consumption of undercooked pork is a risk factor for T. gondii infection. We investigated the seroprevalence and risk factors for T. gondii in pigs in Kenya. A cross-sectional study was conducted at a non-integrated abattoir in Kiambu, Kenya, where 446 blood samples were collected from slaughtered pigs between 5 January and 5 March 2021. For each pig sampled, additional data were collected on the county of origin, farm size, sex and live weight. Serum was harvested from each pig blood sample, and these were subjected to indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay tests to detect the presence of immunoglobin G (IgG) for T. gondii infection. The overall seroprevalence for T. gondii was 34.53% (95% C.I. 30.16–39.17). Risk factors for T. gondii seropositivity in pigs included farm size (p < 0.001) and the live weight of pigs (p = 0.044). The high seroprevalence of T. gondii indicates that consumers of raw and undercooked pork may be at a high risk of infection. It is therefore recommended that strategies for the mitigation of risk of exposure in populations should prioritize public health education for pig farmers, pork handlers and consumers on risk reduction measures along the pork value chains.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food-Borne Pathogens in Livestock)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Clinical Features of BoDV-1 Encephalitis: A Systematic Review
by
Matteo Riccò, Silvia Corrado, Federico Marchesi and Marco Bottazzoli
Zoonotic Dis. 2023, 3(4), 279-300; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis3040023 - 9 Oct 2023
Abstract
Human cases of fatal encephalitis caused by Borna disease virus 1 (BoDV-1) have been increasingly reported. We envisaged the present systematic review in order to provide a comprehensive summary of clinical features associated with BoDV-1 encephalitis. Systematic research of four databases (PubMed, EMBASE,
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Human cases of fatal encephalitis caused by Borna disease virus 1 (BoDV-1) have been increasingly reported. We envisaged the present systematic review in order to provide a comprehensive summary of clinical features associated with BoDV-1 encephalitis. Systematic research of four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, MedRxiv, BioRxiv) was performed during July 2023, and corresponding clinical and epidemiological data were collected and analyzed. A total of 37 BoDV-1 encephalitis cases from 15 different study cases and two countries (Germany, No. 35; France, No. 2) were detected, and their features were summarized (case fatality ratio, 91.9%). Age distribution followed a “U-shaped” distribution, with a first peak in individuals younger than 14 years (18.9%) and the second one in subjects older than 50 years (43.2%). Environmental risk factors were irregularly reported, but 17 out of 37 cases either lived in rural areas or reported repeated outdoor activities (45.9%). Interaction with pets and livestock was reported in eight cases (21.6%), stressing the zoonotic potential of BoDV-1 infections. Moreover, 16.2% of cases were reported among recipients of solid organ transplantations (five kidneys; one liver). Overall survival in children/adolescents vs. adults (≥18 years) was not significantly different (Hazard Ratio 0.878; 95% Confidence Interval from 0.366 to 2.105). Magnetic Resonance Imaging identified the involvement of basal ganglia, mostly of the caudate nucleus (42.4%) and thalamus (33.3%). Cerebrospinal fluid was often characterized by pleocytosis (78.4%). On the other hand, no distinctive clinical features were identified: initial symptoms were specific and included headache, fever, and confusion. In conclusion, BoDV-1 infection can result in fatal encephalitis, whose actual burden still remains unascertained. As the epidemiology of BoDV-1 is similarly elusive, encephalitis cases of unclear cause should be routinely tested for bornaviruses.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of Zoonotic Diseases 2021–2022)
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Open AccessArticle
Perception and Risk Factors Associated with Tuberculosis in the Manyara Region, Tanzania
by
Prudence Masanga, Sarapia Paul, Peter Mbelele, Peter Daud, Alphonce Liyoyo, Lidia Munuo, Samson Lyimo, Beatus Lyimo, Sreenidhi Srinivasan, Isabella Cattadori, Robab Katani, Vivek Kapur, Stella Mpagama and Joram Buza
Zoonotic Dis. 2023, 3(4), 266-278; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis3040022 - 6 Oct 2023
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Tuberculosis (TB) results from infection with members of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and represents a major global public health concern. We here sought to assess the perceptions of human and animal TB and the prevalence of circulating MTBCs lineages and associated risk
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Tuberculosis (TB) results from infection with members of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and represents a major global public health concern. We here sought to assess the perceptions of human and animal TB and the prevalence of circulating MTBCs lineages and associated risk factors through a cross-sectional survey of 335 individuals presenting with symptoms of pulmonary or extrapulmonary TB in the Manyara region of Tanzania. After the enrollment of participants, a questionnaire survey was conducted, samples were collected for bacterial culture, and real-time multiplex PCR was performed to differentiate amongst primary animal and human MTBC lineages. The results show poor TB awareness: 31.6% of the participants were not aware of human TB; 82.4% were unaware of animal TB and 95.2% lacked awareness of zoonotic TB (zTB) transmission. A total of 18 recovered specimens (5%; 95% CI: 3–8%) were positive by culture, all of which were typed as M. tuberculosis sensu stricto using a lineage-specific PCR assay. While no single risk factor was significantly associated with MTBC culture positivity, the survey revealed considerable self-reported high-risk practices for contracting zTB. Together, the results show that Manyara residents have poor knowledge of diseases caused by MTBCs and high evidence of risky practices for contracting zTB.
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Zoonotic Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by
Jérôme Ateudjieu, Joseph Nelson Siewe Fodjo, Calson Ambomatei, Ketina Hirma Tchio-Nighie and Anne-Cecile Zoung Kanyi Bissek
Zoonotic Dis. 2023, 3(4), 251-265; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis3040021 - 4 Oct 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Frequent animal–human interactions in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) pose an increased risk for the transmission of zoonotic diseases. While there are sporadic reports of zoonotic diseases outbreaks in SSA, a synthetic overview is necessary to better understand how the sub-region is impacted by these
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Frequent animal–human interactions in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) pose an increased risk for the transmission of zoonotic diseases. While there are sporadic reports of zoonotic diseases outbreaks in SSA, a synthetic overview is necessary to better understand how the sub-region is impacted by these pathologies. We conducted a systematic review of zoonotic diseases studies conducted in SSA between 2000 and 2022. Quantitative reports including case reports/series from countries spanning West, Central, East, and Southern SSA and that provided empirical data on the occurrence of zoonotic diseases in humans with documented evidence of animal origin were eligible for inclusion. The 55 eligible articles provided 82 reports of zoonotic diseases for a total of 28,934 human cases (pooled attack rate: 54.4 per 1000) and 1182 deaths (pooled fatality rate: 345.4 per 1000). Only 31 (37.8%) of the studies were conducted during ongoing outbreaks. We identified the zoonotic diseases in SSA with the highest attack rates (rickettsiosis, toxoplasmosis, Q-fever) and CFR (Marburg, Ebola, leptospirosis), which should be prioritized for surveillance and response preparedness. Addressing the threat of zoonotic diseases in SSA requires the strengthening of health systems and implementation of a one health approach. Importantly, research should be encouraged during ongoing epidemics to fortify immediate response strategies and work toward preventing future outbreaks.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zoonotic Diseases: Understanding the Intersection between Animal and Human Health)
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