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Mosikidi KN, Mphuthi NM, Mangena ML, Lazarus DD, Sirdar M, Gcebe N. Coxiella burnetii (Q Fever) in Small Ruminants on Farms in North West Province, South Africa. Vet Sci 2025; 12:315. [PMID: 40284817 PMCID: PMC12030919 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci12040315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2025] [Revised: 02/06/2025] [Accepted: 03/11/2025] [Indexed: 04/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Query fever (Q fever) causes huge economic and agricultural losses through congenital effects such as late abortions, stillbirths, and dead or weak offspring in infected livestock and wildlife. Due to limited data on Q fever in small ruminants (sheep and goats) in South Africa, this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the sero- and molecular prevalence of C. burnetii in small ruminants in farms of the North West province. Testing using ELISA showed a 33.96% seropositivity with no significant risk factors. Molecular detection using PCR showed a 61.11% frequency of detection, with higher detection in goats (36.51%) than in sheep (24.60%). There were significant differences in C. burnetii PCR detection between seasons of the year (p = 0.001). Sequence analysis of PCR products showed similarity to the C. burnetii transposase gene, validating the PCR results. A fair correlation between the ELISA and PCR results was observed, suggesting agreement between serology and PCR detection. This study also shows a high prevalence of C. burnetii by both serology and PCR on farms in the North West province of South Africa. As such, extension of such surveillance programs to other provinces in South Africa, as well as inclusion of C. burnetii detection tests, to resolve abortion or stillbirth cases, need to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katleho N. Mosikidi
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North West University, Mafikeng 2735, South Africa; (K.N.M.); (N.M.M.)
- Agricultural Research Council—Bacteriology Laboratory, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Private Bag X 05, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa;
| | - Nthabiseng Malekoba Mphuthi
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North West University, Mafikeng 2735, South Africa; (K.N.M.); (N.M.M.)
| | - Maruping L. Mangena
- Agricultural Research Council—Vaccines and Diagnostic Development Programme, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Private Bag X 05, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - David D. Lazarus
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (Nigeria), Abuja 900001, Nigeria;
| | - Mohammed Sirdar
- International Society for Infectious Diseases, 867 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116, USA;
| | - Nomakorinte Gcebe
- Agricultural Research Council—Bacteriology Laboratory, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Private Bag X 05, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa;
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de França DA, Kmetiuk LB, Rodrigues OJD, Panazzolo GAK, Morikawa VM, de Lima Duré AÍ, Langoni H, Fávero GM, Biondo AW. Coxiella burnetii (Q fever) exposure in wildlife professionals. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1466981. [PMID: 39606082 PMCID: PMC11599223 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1466981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 10/28/2024] [Indexed: 11/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although occupational exposure to Coxiella burnetii has been studied previously, the zoonotic risk in wildlife environments remains unclear and has yet to be fully established. Methods Accordingly, the present study aimed to serologically assess professionals with daily contact with free-living and captive wildlife in Paraná State, Brazil, along with the potential associated risk factors for C. burnetii exposure. Results Overall, 25 out of 309 (8.1%) wildlife professionals were seropositive, including 6/54 (11.1%) national and 7/125 (5.6%) state park employees, 6/92 (6.5%) zookeepers, and 6/38 (15.8%) animal service workers, with titers ranging from 32 to 128. No statistical association was found between seropositivity and associated risk factors, including the working location. Discussion Our results differ from those of previous studies in Brazil, which found 8/893 (0.9%) indigenous, 1/18 (5.5%) police officers, and 44/200 (22.0%) former Black slaves to be seropositive. This study is the first serological investigation of C. burnetii among park rangers, zookeepers, and animal service workers in Brazil, showing no statistically significant risk factors for seropositivity. As the seroprevalence in this study was higher than that in previous surveys of healthy (asymptomatic) human populations, C. burnetii exposure may also be an occupational risk for wildlife professionals owing to their contact with the natural environment in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Alves de França
- Department of Animal Production and Preventive Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animals Science, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Ana Íris de Lima Duré
- Service of Virology and Rickettsiosis, Octavio Magalhaes Institute Ezequiel Dias Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Helio Langoni
- Department of Animal Production and Preventive Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animals Science, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Giovani Marino Fávero
- Graduate College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Brazil
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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Addo SO, Amoah S, Unicorn NM, Kyeremateng ET, Desewu G, Obuam PK, Malm ROT, Osei-Frempong E, Torto FA, Accorlor SK, Baidoo PK, Dadzie SK, Larbi JA. Molecular Detection of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Kumasi: With a First Report of Zoonotic Pathogens in Abattoir Workers. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 2024:4848451. [PMID: 39035771 PMCID: PMC11260511 DOI: 10.1155/2024/4848451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Tick-borne pathogens continue to infect humans and animals worldwide. By adapting to the movement of livestock, ticks facilitate the spread of these infectious pathogens. Humans in close contact with animals that could be amplifying hosts are especially at risk of being infected with tick-borne pathogens. This study involved the collection of dry blood spots (DBSs) to determine tick-borne pathogens occurring in slaughtered livestock and abattoir workers in Kumasi. This study employed the use of conventional PCR, RT-PCR, and Sanger sequencing to detect and identify the tick-borne pathogens. The resulting data was analysed using Stata version 13. A total of 175 DBSs were collected from goats (76), cattle (54), and sheep (45) in the Kumasi abattoir (130, 74.29%) and Akwatia Line slaughter slab (45, 25.71%). The pathogens identified were mostly bacterial including Anaplasma capra (9.71%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (1.14%), and Rickettsia aeschlimannii (0.57.%). The only parasite identified was Theileria ovis (9.14%). A significant association was seen between A. capra (p < 0.001) infection and female sheep sampled from the Akwatia Line slaughter slab. Again, there was a significant association between T. ovis (p < 0.001) infections and female sheep from the Kumasi abattoir. From the human DBS (63) screened, the pathogens identified were all bacterial including Coxiella burnetii (1.89%), Rickettsia africae (1.89%), and R. aeschlimannii (1.89%). This study reports the first detection of R. aeschlimannii in livestock as well as the occurrence of the above-mentioned pathogens in humans in Ghana. Animals can serve as amplifying hosts for infectious pathogens; hence, there is an increased risk of infections among the abattoir workers. Continuous surveillance effort is essential, and abattoir workers need to protect themselves from tick bites and infectious tick-borne pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Offei Addo
- Parasitology DepartmentNoguchi Memorial Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Theoretical and Applied BiologyCollege of ScienceKNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Stacy Amoah
- Department of Theoretical and Applied BiologyCollege of ScienceKNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | - Genevieve Desewu
- Department of Theoretical and Applied BiologyCollege of ScienceKNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Patrick Kwasi Obuam
- School of Public HealthKwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Richard Odoi-Teye Malm
- Parasitology DepartmentNoguchi Memorial Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Osei-Frempong
- Parasitology DepartmentNoguchi Memorial Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Francisca Adai Torto
- Parasitology DepartmentNoguchi Memorial Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Stephen Kwabena Accorlor
- Parasitology DepartmentNoguchi Memorial Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Philip Kweku Baidoo
- Department of Theoretical and Applied BiologyCollege of ScienceKNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Samuel K. Dadzie
- Parasitology DepartmentNoguchi Memorial Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - John Asiedu Larbi
- Department of Theoretical and Applied BiologyCollege of ScienceKNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
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Abbiw RK, Mensah GI, Adabie-Gomez DA, Asare-Dompreh K, Clement-Owusu S, Adjei VY, Simpson SV, Ahmed MA, Johnson SA. Seroprevalence of Q fever ( Coxiella burnetii) in sheep in the Kwahu West municipality, Eastern Region, Ghana. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33009. [PMID: 38988589 PMCID: PMC11234003 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Query fever, also known as Q fever, is a zoonotic disease caused by Coxiella burnetii. It is a cause of abortion in livestock and presents as a febrile illness in humans. A correlation between the incidence of the disease in humans and abortion in goats and sheep farms has been reported in countries such as the Netherlands and Australia. In Ghana, the occurrence of Q fever in both livestock and humans has not been fully explored. This study sought to determine the seroprevalence of Q fever in livestock in Nkawkaw, in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Sera obtained from 92 sheep from 12 farms were tested using the indirect multi-species ELISA for the detection of anti-Coxiella burnetii antibodies. Animal demographics, farms' proximity to human settlement and history of abortion in relation to the Q fever status were assessed. The overall prevalence of Q fever was 13.0 % [95 % CI 6.9-21.6] (12/92). Both sexes were equally affected, with a sex-specific prevalence of 13.0 % each. The farm-specific prevalence was 50 %. Abortions were reported on eight (8) of the 12 farms, and all farms were located less than 200 m from human habitation. Only proximity of farm to human settlement showed statistical significance. Q fever is prevalent in Nkawkaw and requires the attention of both animal and health authorities, using the One- Health approach to nip any future epidemics in its bud.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Kwamena Abbiw
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana
| | - Gloria Ivy Mensah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | | | - Vida Yirenkyiwaa Adjei
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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França DAD, Silva FPD, Zanini DDS, Iglesias L, Portillo L, Cortez H, Biondo AW, Duré AÍDL, Silva MVF, Miret J, Langoni H. Coxiella burnetii seroprevalence in sheep herd from Paraguay: First evidence of bacterial circulation in the country. One Health 2024; 18:100660. [PMID: 38179312 PMCID: PMC10765107 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii is the agent of Q fever, a disease that poses risks to public health and damages livestock. We discovered the circulation of C. burnetii for the first time in Paraguay, based on the seropositivity of a flock of >300 sheep. The animals were tested by IFA for anti-C. burnetii antibodies and by SAM for anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies, an important differential diagnosis for reproductive disorders in sheep in Paraguay. C. burnetii seropositivity was determined in 45%, in contrast to Leptospira spp. which had no reactive samples. Cases of miscarriage and fetal resorption were associated with high seropositivity titers. This study suggests the circulation of a unique genotype in the country and an imminent risk to public health, since in addition to being highly transmissible and infectious to humans, Q fever is still not a cause for concern on the part of government and health agencies in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Alves de França
- São Paulo State University, Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Unesp Campus de Botucatu, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-681, Brazil
| | - Filipe Pereira da Silva
- Octavio Magalhaes Institute, Prof. Octavio Coelho De Magalhaes, s/n, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte 30210-290, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Dayane da Silva Zanini
- São Paulo State University, Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Unesp Campus de Botucatu, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-681, Brazil
| | - Lorena Iglesias
- Universidad Nacional de Canindeyú, Calle Itambey, Curuguaty 140802, Paraguay
| | - Laura Portillo
- Universidad Nacional de Canindeyú, Calle Itambey, Curuguaty 140802, Paraguay
| | - Herminia Cortez
- Universidad Nacional de Canindeyú, Calle Itambey, Curuguaty 140802, Paraguay
| | | | - Ana Íris de Lima Duré
- Octavio Magalhaes Institute, Prof. Octavio Coelho De Magalhaes, s/n, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte 30210-290, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marcos Vinicius Ferreira Silva
- Octavio Magalhaes Institute, Prof. Octavio Coelho De Magalhaes, s/n, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte 30210-290, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jorge Miret
- Universidad Nacional de Canindeyú, Calle Itambey, Curuguaty 140802, Paraguay
| | - Helio Langoni
- São Paulo State University, Prof. Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa, s/n, Unesp Campus de Botucatu, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-681, Brazil
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Ahmad K, Mustaffa NDAN, Azmi NS, Zainal Ariffin SM, Bin Ghazali MF, Ibrahim NS. Detection and seroprevalence of Q fever infection in dairy goats in Besut district, Malaysia. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11:231-236. [PMID: 39101099 PMCID: PMC11296184 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2024.k768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of Q fever and its association with age and gender among Saanen dairy goats in Malaysia. Materials and Methods One hundred dairy goats (n = 100) aged 6 months to 6 years were randomly selected, and blood samples were collected for serological analysis using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. Results The results revealed a seropositive rate of 70% among the goats, with medium-positive titers being the most common. The prevalence of Q fever varied among different age groups, with higher rates observed in adult goats aged between 5 and 6 years. Gender analysis showed that males had a higher positive rate (p < 0.05) of Q fever compared to females. Conclusion These findings strongly indicate the presence of Coxiella burnetii in the dairy goat population and highlight the importance of implementing biosecurity measures and control strategies to prevent further transmission of this disease. This research has contributed to a better understanding of Q fever epidemiology and provides insights for effective control and prevention strategies in dairy goat populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khairunnisa Ahmad
- School of Animal Science, Aquatic Science and Environment, Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut, Malaysia
| | - Nik Danial Asyraf Nik Mustaffa
- School of Animal Science, Aquatic Science and Environment, Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut, Malaysia
| | - Nur Syafiqa Azmi
- School of Animal Science, Aquatic Science and Environment, Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut, Malaysia
| | - Siti Mariam Zainal Ariffin
- Department of Veterinary Pre-Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Faizal Bin Ghazali
- School of Animal Science, Aquatic Science and Environment, Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut, Malaysia
| | - Noor Syaheera Ibrahim
- School of Animal Science, Aquatic Science and Environment, Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut, Malaysia
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Ahaduzzaman M, Reza MMB. Global and regional seroprevalence of coxiellosis in small ruminants: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Vet Med Sci 2024; 10:e1441. [PMID: 38613179 PMCID: PMC11015088 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coxiellosis is a neglected zoonosis for occupationally exposed people in many parts of the world. Sheep and goats are two important small ruminants that act as reservoirs for human contamination; however, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the epidemiological aspects of coxiellosis in sheep and goats at regional and global levels. The aim of this study was to systematically review the available articles on seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep and goats and estimate the overall seroprevalence in different regions. METHODS A systematic search strategy was performed in five electronic repositories for articles published until December 2021. Relevant data were extracted from the selected articles based on the inclusion criteria. A random effect meta-analysis model was used to analyse the data. Results are presented as the prevalence of seropositivity as a percentage and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep was 17.38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.59%-19.17%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in sheep ranged from 15.04% (95% CI: 7.68%-22.40%) to 19.14% (95% CI: 15.51%-22.77%), depending on region. The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in goats was 22.60% (95% CI: 19.54%-25.66%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in goats ranged from 6.33% (95% CI: 2.96%-9.71%) to 55.13% (95% CI: 49.61%-60.65%), depending on the region. The prevalence estimates also varied significantly in both sheep and goats depending on age, sex, and rearing systems of the animals (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Seroprevalence of coxiellosis in both sheep and goats is considerable. Routine monitoring of the sheep and goat populations is needed to prevent spillover infection in other livestock and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Ahaduzzaman
- Department of Medicine & SurgeryChattogram Veterinary & Animal Sciences University (CVASU)ChattogramBangladesh
| | - Md Moktadir Billah Reza
- Department of Medicine & SurgeryChattogram Veterinary & Animal Sciences University (CVASU)ChattogramBangladesh
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Offei Addo S, Essah Bentil R, Olivia Ama Baako B, Ansah-Owusu J, Nii Laryea Tawiah-Mensah C, Behene E, Asoala V, Dunford JC, Asiedu Larbi J, Kweku Baidoo P, David Wilson M, Diclaro JW, Dadzie SK. Spatial and Seasonal Patterns of Tick Infestations in Kassena-Nankana Livestock. Vet Med Int 2024; 2024:8889907. [PMID: 38234318 PMCID: PMC10791324 DOI: 10.1155/2024/8889907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The ability of ticks to adapt to different ecological zones, coupled with the spread of infectious pathogens negatively affects livestock production and thus, there is a need for better control strategies. However, control measures within a geographical region can only be effective if there is available information on tick population dynamics and ecology. This study focused on ticks infesting livestock in the Kassena-Nankana Districts of the Upper East Region of Ghana. The ticks were morphologically identified, variables such as season, animal host, and predilection sites were recorded, and the data were analyzed using STATA version 13. Out of 448 livestock examined, tick infestation in cattle was (78.60%), followed by sheep (25%) and goats (5.88%). A total of 1,550 ticks including nymphs (303) and adults (1,247) were collected. Adult ticks were found to be significantly associated with season (p < 0.001), with a high burden in the wet season. The nymph burden and body parts of livestock hosts were significantly associated with more nymphs collected from male animals than females (p < 0.001). Three genera of ticks, Amblyomma (62.97%), Hyalomma (18.71%), and Rhipicephalus (18.32%) were morphologically identified with the most predominant tick species recorded as Amblyomma variegatum (62.97%). Matured A. variegatum was sampled primarily in the wet season with their predilection site as the udder/scrotum (p < 0.001). However, adult Hyalomma truncatum was observed to have a significant association with the anal region (p < 0.001). Findings from this study are essential for formulating tick control measures to prevent the spread of infectious pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Offei Addo
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ronald Essah Bentil
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Jane Ansah-Owusu
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Eric Behene
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Victor Asoala
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Navrongo, Upper East Region, Ghana
| | - James C. Dunford
- Navy Entomology Center of Excellence, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
- Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - John Asiedu Larbi
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Philip Kweku Baidoo
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael David Wilson
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph W. Diclaro
- Navy Entomology Center of Excellence, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Detachment, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Samuel K. Dadzie
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Robi DT, Demissie W, Bogale A, Temteme S, Aleme M, Urge B. Epidemiological investigation of Coxiella burnetii in cattle and its association with Ixodid tick infestation in different agro-ecological zones of Southwest Ethiopia. Res Vet Sci 2023; 164:105015. [PMID: 37708827 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii is a serious zoonotic disease that causes significant economic losses in cattle production, including abortion, stillbirth, infertility, and reduced milk yield. However, little is known about the epidemiology of C. burnetii in Ethiopia. From November 2020 to November 2021, a cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of C. burnetii in cattle in various agro-ecologies of Southwest Ethiopia. Blood samples were collected from 461 cattle, and the serum samples were tested for the presence of C. burnetii antibodies using an indirect ELISA. To identify potential risk factors for C. burnetii seropositivity, a multivariable mixed-effect logistic regression analysis was used. The study found an overall seroprevalence of 8.68% (95% CI: 6.11-11.25) and 13.57% (95% CI: 9.56-17.58) at the animal and herd levels, respectively, in the study areas. The results of the study indicated that C. burnetii infection was a widespread disease in the study areas. C. burnetii seropositivity at the animal level was significantly associated with age (OR = 4.1, 95%CI: 1.47-10.92), herd size (OR = 3.9, 95%CI: 1.21-12.66), management system (OR = 9.7, 95%CI: 1.27-27.25), cattle access to dogs, cats, and mice (OR = 2.5, 95%CI: 1.21-5.28), accessibility of cattle to wild animals (OR = 4.2, 95%CI: 1.01-17.18), presence of ticks on cattle (OR = 2.3, 95%CI: 1.12-4.83), and history of abortion (OR = 3.8, 95%CI: 1.78-8.23). A herd level analysis identified several risk factors for C. burnetii infection, including the management system (OR = 3.8, 95%CI: 1.59-8.98), agro-ecology (OR = 2.8, 95%CI: 1.43-7.21), herd size (OR = 4.3, 95%CI: 1.69-9.76), and accessibility of cattle to dogs, cats, and mice (OR = 2.6, 95%CI: 1.18-3.96). Therefore, it is important to implement appropriate control methods and raise public awareness about C. burnetii zoonotic transmission. Moreover, further studies should be conducted to isolate and characterize C. burnetii as a cause of reproductive problems and in disease reservoirs such as ticks and wildlife in the study areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dereje Tulu Robi
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box, 34, Tepi, Ethiopia.
| | - Wondimagegn Demissie
- Jimma University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 307, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Ararsa Bogale
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box, 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Shiferaw Temteme
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box, 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Melkam Aleme
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box, 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Beksisa Urge
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Holeta Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Holeta, Ethiopia
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Tagoe JNA, Yeboah C, Behene E, Kumordjie S, Nimo-Paintsil S, Attram N, Nyarko EO, Carroll JA, Fox AT, Watters C, Koram K, Anang AK, Sanders T, Letizia AG. Coinfection of Malaria and Bacterial Pathogens among Acute Febrile Patients in Selected Clinics in Ghana. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2023; 109:1036-1046. [PMID: 37748764 PMCID: PMC10622490 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria remains the leading cause of acute febrile illness (AFI) in Africa despite successful control measures and programs. Acute febrile illnesses can be misdiagnosed as malaria as a result of the overlapping spectrum of nonspecific symptoms or may not be pursued because of limited diagnostic capabilities. This study investigated potential etiologies of AFIs in Ghana and determined the relationship between coinfection between malaria and Q fever, leptospirosis, and culturable bacteria in febrile patients. Participants were enrolled between July 2015 and December 2019 from four Ghanaian military treatment facilities. Of the 399 febrile participants, 222 (55.6%) males and 177 (44.6%) females were enrolled. Malaria was diagnosed in 275 (68.9%) participants. Malaria coinfection occurred with leptospirosis, Q fever, and blood-cultured bacteria in 11/206 (5.3%), 24/206 (11.7%), and 6/164 (3.7%) participants, respectively. Among the 124 malaria-negative samples, the positivity rates were 4.1% (3/74), 8.1% (6/74), and 3.6% (2/56) for leptospirosis, Q fever, and bacterial pathogens isolated from blood culture, respectively. The majority of documented clinical signs and symptoms were not significantly associated with specific diseases. Approximately 10% of malaria-positive participants also had evidence suggesting the presence of a bacterial coinfection. Therefore, even in the case of a positive malaria test, other pathogens contributing to febrile illness should be considered. Understanding the frequency of malaria coinfection and other etiological agents responsible for AFIs will improve diagnosis and treatment and better inform public health knowledge gaps in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice N. A. Tagoe
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Accra, Ghana
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit-No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Clara Yeboah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Accra, Ghana
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit-No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Eric Behene
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Accra, Ghana
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit-No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Selassie Kumordjie
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Accra, Ghana
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit-No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Naiki Attram
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit-No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Anne T. Fox
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit-No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Chaselynn Watters
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit-No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kwadwo Koram
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Terrel Sanders
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit-No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
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11
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Robi DT, Demissie W, Temteme S. Coxiellosis in Livestock: Epidemiology, Public Health Significance, and Prevalence of Coxiella burnetii Infection in Ethiopia. VETERINARY MEDICINE (AUCKLAND, N.Z.) 2023; 14:145-158. [PMID: 37614223 PMCID: PMC10443632 DOI: 10.2147/vmrr.s418346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Coxiellosis is a zoonotic disease that is prevalent globally and can pose significant challenges, especially in less developed countries like Ethiopia. Coxiella burnetii is responsible for causing an infection called Q fever in humans and coxiellosis in ruminants. Pneumonia and endocarditis are the only signs that characterize the acute and chronic forms of Q fever, respectively. Ruminants exhibit symptoms such as abortion during the later stages of pregnancy, impaired fertility, perinatal death, premature delivery, and reduced birth weight. C. burnetii infection typically spreads among healthy cattle via tick bites and exposure to infected cattle or their bodily secretions. The primary source of human infection is through the ingestion of contaminated milk and milk products, but transmission through aerosols and dust generated during livestock operations is also common. Cattle, sheep, camels and goats are the primary sources of human infection, and the bacterium can be found in various bodily fluids of infected animals. Several factors, including host characteristics, environmental conditions, and management practices, can potentially affect the occurrence of C. burnetii infection in livestock, such as cattle, camels, sheep, and goats. Coxiellosis is prevalent in Ethiopia's pastoral and mixed cattle management systems, as individuals frequently interact with cattle and are therefore more prone to exposure to the C. burnetii bacterium. Vaccination and biosecurity measures are effective techniques for managing C. burnetii infection. Therefore, it is crucial to implement appropriate mitigation strategies, raise awareness about the spread of C. burnetii infection, and conduct further studies on C. burnetii infection in high-risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dereje Tulu Robi
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Wondimagegn Demissie
- Jimma University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine School of Veterinary Medicine, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Shiferaw Temteme
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, Tepi, Ethiopia
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12
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Addo SO, Bentil RE, Baako BOA, Yartey KN, Behene E, Asiamah B, Nyarko AA, Asoala V, Sallam M, Mate S, Dunford JC, Larbi JA, Baidoo PK, Wilson MD, Diclaro Ii JW, Dadzie SK. Occurrence of Rickettsia spp. and Coxiella burnetii in ixodid ticks in Kassena-Nankana, Ghana. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2023:10.1007/s10493-023-00808-0. [PMID: 37322233 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-023-00808-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are arthropods of veterinary and medical importance which spread zoonotic pathogens that link animal and human health. In this study, ticks were collected from 448 livestock between February and December 2020 in the Kassena-Nankana Districts of Ghana and screened for the presence of zoonotic pathogens DNA using PCR and sequencing approaches. In total, 1550 ticks were collected and morphologically identified. Three tick genera were identified with Amblyomma variegatum (63%) as the predominant tick species collected. DNA was extracted from 491 tick pools and screened for the presence of DNA of Rickettsia spp. based on the 115 bp fragment of the 17 kDa surface protein and 639 bp of the Outer membrane protein A (ompA) gene and the 295 bp fragment of the transposase gene of Coxiella burnetii IS1111a element. From the 491 pools screened, the DNA of Rickettsia spp. and C. burnetii was detected in 56.8 and 3.7%, respectively. Coinfections were identified in 2.4% of the tick pools. Characterization of the Rickettsia spp. in this study based on the ompA gene showed that the DNA of Rickettsia africae and Rickettsia aeschlimannii accounted for 39.7 and 14.7%, respectively, and were 100% similar to sequences in GenBank. Most R. africae and C. burnetii infections occurred in ticks collected in the wet season, whereas R. aeschlimannii occurred mostly in the dry season. These pathogens are potential public health threats, thus there is a need to implement control measures to reduce the risk of infections in vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Offei Addo
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, College of Science, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Ronald Essah Bentil
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Kevin Nii Yartey
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Eric Behene
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Benjamin Asiamah
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Abena Akyeamaa Nyarko
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Victor Asoala
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Upper East Region, Navrongo, Ghana
| | - Mohamed Sallam
- Public Health and Biostatistics Department, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Suzanne Mate
- U.S. Army Emerging Infectious Diseases Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - James C Dunford
- Navy Entomology Center of Excellence, Jacksonville, FL, USA
- Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - John Asiedu Larbi
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, College of Science, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Philip Kweku Baidoo
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, College of Science, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael David Wilson
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph W Diclaro Ii
- Navy Entomology Center of Excellence, Center for Disease Control and Prevention Detachment, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Samuel K Dadzie
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
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13
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Sadiki V, Gcebe N, Mangena ML, Ngoshe YB, Adesiyun AA. Prevalence and risk factors of Q fever ( Coxiella burnetii) in cattle on farms of Limpopo province, South Africa. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1101988. [PMID: 37180062 PMCID: PMC10169714 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1101988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Q fever in animals and humans and its economic and public health significance has been widely reported worldwide but in South Africa. There are few studies on the prevalence of this zoonosis and its associated risk factors in South African livestock. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence, molecular prevalence, and risk factors associated with C. burnetii in cattle on farms in South Africa's Limpopo province. Out of 383 cattle tested for antibodies, the overall seroprevalence was 24.28%. Herd size of >150 (OR: 9.88; 95%CI: 3.92-24.89; p < 0.01) remained associated with C. burnetii seropositivity in cattle. For PCR detection, targeting IS1111 fragment, cattle with no abortion history (OR: 0.37; 95%CI: 0.18-0.77; p < 0.01) and herd size of >150 (OR: 3.52; 95%CI: 1.34-9.24; p < 0.01) remained associated with C. burnetii positivity. The molecular prevalence in sheath scrapings and vaginal swabs by IS1111 PCR was 15.67%. Cohen's kappa agreement test revealed a fair agreement between the PCR and ELISA results (k = 0.40). Sequence analysis revealed that the amplicons had similarities to the C. burnetii transposase gene fragment, confirming the presence of the pathogen. The higher seroprevalence than molecular prevalence indicated a past C. burnetii infection, no bacterial shedding through vaginal mucus in cows, or preputial discharge in bulls. Similarly, the detection of C. burnetii by PCR in the absence of antibodies could be partly explained by recent infections in which antibodies have not yet been produced against the bacteria, or the level of these antibodies was below the detectability threshold. The presence of the pathogen in cattle and the evidence of exposure, as shown by both PCR and ELISA suggests an active circulation of the pathogen. This study demonstrated that C. burnetii is widespread in the study area and that a herd size of >150 is associated with C. burnetii seroprevalence and molecular prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vhahangwele Sadiki
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Agricultural Research Council–Bacteriology and Zoonotic Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nomakorinte Gcebe
- Agricultural Research Council–Bacteriology and Zoonotic Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Maruping L. Mangena
- Agricultural Research Council–Transboundary Animal Diseases Programme, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Yusuf B. Ngoshe
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Abiodun A. Adesiyun
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
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14
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Magadu R, Thompson PN. Seroprevalence and factors associated with Coxiella burnetii exposure in goats in Moretele. Onderstepoort J Vet Res 2023; 90:e1-e7. [PMID: 37042557 PMCID: PMC10157449 DOI: 10.4102/ojvr.v90i1.2071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with Coxiella burnetii causes significant economic impact and poses zoonotic risk to people exposed to livestock, yet few studies in South Africa have assessed seroprevalence of C. burnetii infection and no information is available for goats. Very little information is available regarding risk factors and outcomes of C. burnetii infection in peri-urban farming areas where widespread mixing of ruminants occurs. This study estimated the seroprevalence of C. burnetii infection among communally farmed goats in an area adjacent to the densely populated Gauteng province. Sera were collected from 216 goats in 39 herds, and questionnaires were completed to establish management practices as potential risk factors. C. burnetii antibody testing was done by ELISA. Thirty two out of 216 goats tested positive for C. burnetii antibodies and the overall seroprevalence, adjusted for sampling weights and clustering, was 18.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.2% - 23.5%). The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.06, indicating low-to-moderate clustering. Multiple logistic regression showed age was significantly associated with seropositivity, with higher seroprevalence in animals ≥ 19 months old (26%) than animals ≤ 6 months old (6%) (odds ratio [OR]: 6.6; p = 0.010). We concluded C. burnetii infection is common in goats in Moretele and a potential cause of abortion in goats and poses the potential zoonotic disease risk.Contribution: Despite the threats posed on animal health and productivity, scant information is published on C. burnetii in South Africa. This research established preliminary estimates of C. burnetii seroprevalence. The research is original from a South African perspective, relevant to Africa and focused on infectious disease in livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rungano Magadu
- Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria.
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15
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Addo SO, Bentil RE, Yartey KN, Ansah-Owusu J, Behene E, Opoku-Agyeman P, Bruku S, Asoala V, Mate S, Larbi JA, Baidoo PK, Wilson MD, Diclaro JW, Dadzie SK. First molecular identification of multiple tick-borne pathogens in livestock within Kassena-Nankana, Ghana. ANIMAL DISEASES 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s44149-022-00064-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe risk of pathogen transmission continues to increase significantly in the presence of tick vectors due to the trade of livestock across countries. In Ghana, there is a lack of data on the incidence of tick-borne pathogens that are of zoonotic and veterinary importance. This study, therefore, aimed to determine the prevalence of such pathogens in livestock using molecular approaches. A total of 276 dry blood spots were collected from cattle (100), sheep (95) and goats (81) in the Kassena-Nankana Districts. The samples were analyzed using Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) and conventional assays and Sanger sequencing that targeted pathogens including Rickettsia, Coxiella, Babesia, Theileria, Ehrlichia and Anaplasma. An overall prevalence of 36.96% was recorded from the livestock DBS, with mixed infections seen in 7.97% samples. Furthermore, the prevalence of infections in livestock was recorded to be 19.21% in sheep, 14.13% in cattle, and 3.62% in goats. The pathogens identified were Rickettsia spp. (3.26%), Babesia sp. Lintan (8.70%), Theileria orientalis (2.17%), Theileria parva (0.36%), Anaplasma capra (18.48%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (1.81%), Anaplasma marginale (3.26%) and Anaplasma ovis (7.25%). This study reports the first molecular identification of the above-mentioned pathogens in livestock in Ghana and highlights the use of dry blood spots in resource-limited settings. In addition, this research provides an update on tick-borne pathogens in Ghana, suggesting risks to livestock production and human health. Further studies will be essential to establish the distribution and epidemiology of these pathogens in Ghana.
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16
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Kiptanui J, Gathura PB, Kitala PM, Bett B. Seroprevalence Estimates of Q Fever and the Predictors for the Infection in Cattle, Sheep, and Goats in Nandi County, Kenya. Vet Med Int 2022; 2022:3741285. [PMID: 36437838 PMCID: PMC9683944 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3741285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Q fever is an important worldwide zoonotic disease that affects almost all domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. The infection has both socio-economic and public health significance. A cross-sectional study was carried out to investigate the estimates of seroprevalence of Q fever and to determine the predictors of the infection in cattle, sheep, and goats in six wards of Nandi County. A total of 1,140 blood samples were collected from 366 households. Samples were drawn from 725 cattle (64%), 283 sheep (25%), and 132 goats (11%). Multistage sampling method was adopted. Serum samples were analyzed for antibodies to Coxiella burnetii using the indirect ELISA test. Results showed an overall animal seroprevalence of 5.614% (64/1140) for Q fever. In cattle, the seroprevalence was 8.138% (59/725) with CI 95% (2.8-18.23), 1.413% (4/283) for sheep CI 95% (1.0-7.78), and 0.758% (1/132) goats CI 95% (0.14-7.27). From the findings, Q fever was more prevalent in cattle (OR 7.26) than in sheep and goats. Animal species (p value 0.015, CI 95% OR 7.26) was the only potential predictors in the three considered species for the presence of Coxiella burnetii antibodies. Sex, age, breed, and production system had no statistical significant association for Q fever infection since p value was >0.005. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that cattle, sheep, and goats are widely exposed to Q fever organisms, and hence, it is an important zoonosis in Nandi County. Therefore, to address this "silent" disease, there is an urgent call for both veterinarians and medical personnel to jointly address prevention and control strategy through enhanced surveillance, public sensitization, and awareness creation under the one health concept. There is also a need for enhanced capacity for the diagnosis of Q fever in both animals and humans in Nandi County.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Kiptanui
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - P. B. Gathura
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - P. M. Kitala
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - B. Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
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17
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Muema J, Nyamai M, Wheelhouse N, Njuguna J, Jost C, Oyugi J, Bukania Z, Oboge H, Ogoti B, Makori A, Fernandez MDP, Omulo S, Thumbi S. Endemicity of Coxiella burnetii infection among people and their livestock in pastoral communities in northern Kenya. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11133. [PMID: 36303929 PMCID: PMC9593183 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Coxiella burnetti can be transmitted to humans primarily through inhaling contaminated droplets released from infected animals or consumption of contaminated dairy products. Despite its zoonotic nature and the close association pastoralist communities have with their livestock, studies reporting simultaneous assessment of C. burnetti exposure and risk-factors among people and their livestock are scarce. Objective This study therefore estimated the seroprevalence of Q-fever and associated risk factors of exposure in people and their livestock. Materials and methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in pastoralist communities in Marsabit County in northern Kenya. A total of 1,074 women and 225 children were enrolled and provided blood samples for Q-fever testing. Additionally, 1,876 goats, 322 sheep and 189 camels from the same households were sampled. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect individual- and household/herd-level data. Indirect IgG ELISA kits were used to test the samples. Results Household-level seropositivity was 13.2% [95% CI: 11.2–15.3]; differences in seropositivity levels among women and children were statistically insignificant (p = 0.8531). Lactating women had higher odds of exposure, odds ratio (OR) = 2.4 [1.3–5.3], while the odds of exposure among children increased with age OR = 1.1 [1.0–1.1]. Herd-level seroprevalence was 83.7% [81.7–85.6]. Seropositivity among goats was 74.7% [72.7–76.7], while that among sheep and camels was 56.8% [51.2–62.3] and 38.6% [31.6–45.9], respectively. Goats and sheep had a higher risk of exposure OR = 5.4 [3.7–7.3] and 2.6 [1.8–3.4], respectively relative to camels. There was no statistically significant association between Q-fever seropositivity and nutrition status in women, p = 0.900 and children, p = 1.000. We found no significant association between exposure in people and their livestock at household level (p = 0.724) despite high animal exposure levels, suggesting that Q-fever exposure in humans may be occurring at a scale larger than households. Conclusion The one health approach used in this study revealed that Q-fever is endemic in this setting. Longitudinal studies of Q-fever burden and risk factors simultaneously assessed in human and animal populations as well as the socioeconomic impacts of the disease and further explore the role of environmental factors in Q-fever epidemiology are required. Such evidence may form the basis for designing Q-fever prevention and control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josphat Muema
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya,Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA,Corresponding author.
| | - Mutono Nyamai
- Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA,Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Joseph Njuguna
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Christine Jost
- United States Agency for International Development's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA), Washington, DC, USA,Global Health Support Initiative III, Social Solutions International, Washington DC, USA
| | - Julius Oyugi
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Zipporah Bukania
- Center for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Harriet Oboge
- Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA
| | - Brian Ogoti
- Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anita Makori
- Washington State University Global Health Program – Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya,Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Sylvia Omulo
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA,Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, USA
| | - S.M. Thumbi
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health, Washington State University, USA,Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya,Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, USA,South African Center for Epidemiological Modelling Analysis, South Africa,Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, UK
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18
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Sero-Epidemiology of Coxiella burnetii Infection in Small Ruminants in the Eastern Region of Punjab, Pakistan. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060664. [PMID: 35745517 PMCID: PMC9231125 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence of Q fever in sheep and goats in Kasur, Okara, and Pakpattan in the Punjab of Pakistan. Q fever is a widely reported zoonotic disease caused by Coxiella (C.) burnetii. The main reservoirs are small ruminants that excrete the bacteria in birth by-products in high numbers. Thus, the bacteria can also be detected in the air and the dust of livestock farms. The infection is often asymptomatic in ruminants, but it can lead to reproductive disorders. This cross-sectional study found that a significant number (n = 43; 11.3%) of 300 randomly selected small ruminants of nine tehsils were seropositive using a commercially available ELISA. Seroprevalence was significantly higher in goats (17.1%) than in sheep (4.9%). Binary logistic regression analysis proved that species, age, and breed have a significant effect on the prevalence of Q fever. Tick infestation, contact with animal fomites, contact with other animals, production system, and health status of an animal had a significant impact on the prevalence of Q fever. These findings on Q fever in animals can be used to improve the visibility of this zoonotic disease. These findings will help local health authorities to focus on the origin of the problem and facilitate applying preventive measures to the affected livestock farms.
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19
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Exposure to multiple pathogens - serological evidence for Rift Valley fever virus, Coxiella burnetii, Bluetongue virus and Brucella spp. in cattle, sheep and goat in Mali. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010342. [PMID: 35486653 PMCID: PMC9094527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
An important problem for livestock production in Mali is occurrence of several infectious diseases. A particular challenge for control of pathogens that affect different species, especially in a system with mixed herds with cattle, sheep and goats. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate co-exposure with Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), Coxiella burnetii, Bluetongue virus (BTV) and Brucella spp. in different livestock species in mixed herds. With the exception of BTV these pathogens are also zoonotic. A retrospective assessment was carried out on a biobank of sera of cattle and small ruminants collected from Sikasso and Mopti regions. Nine hundred and twelve samples from cattle (n = 304), sheep (n = 318) and goat (n = 290) were screened. Serology tests were conducted using commercial kits as per the protocol of the manufacturers. Sero-prevalence for RVFV was 12.8% (Confidence Interval 95%: 9.3–17.1%); 4.7% (2.7–7.7%) and 3.1% (1.4–5.8%) in cattle, sheep and goat respectively. For Coxiella burnetii, the sero-prevalence was 55.3% (49.5–60.9%), 22.6% (18.2–27.6%), and 16.9% (12.8–21.7%); in cattle, sheep and goat respectively; and for BTV sero-prevalence was 88.8% (84.72–92.13%), 51.6% (45.9–57.2%), 56.2% (50.3–62.0%) in cattle, sheep in goat respectively. Brucella sp. had the lowest sero-prevalence and was only detected in cattle and sheep. Regional differences were observed with sero-prevalence of Coxiella burnetii in sheep and goat with BTV in goat being significantly higher in Sikasso than in Mopti (p<0.001). Evidence of exposure to two pathogens in the same animal was most common for the combination Coxiella burnetii and BTV in cattle (51.6%), followed by sheep (17.0%) and goat (15.5%). Considering the scarcity of disease occurrence and epidemiological data in most sub-saharan countries including Mali, this multi-pathogen survey provides important evidence that cattle, sheep and goat are exposed to pathogens that may negatively impact productivity and pose a risk for public health. The results from this study highlight the urgent need for a better understanding of pathogen diversity and their impact on human and animal health in order to minimize resulting risks. Given that some of the pathogens investigated here are zoonotic, establishment of One-Health surveillance system to monitor disease in animals and people is warranted. Therefore, intersectoral collaboration is recommended. High prevalence of Rift Valley fever virus, Coxiella burnetii and Bluetongue virus were observed in cattle, sheep, and goats. We provided evidence that animals of the same herds have to cope with several pathogens. This study points out to need for important follow up studies to fill further knowledge gaps related to impacts of livestock diseases in Mali, especially zoonoses, and how to address the challenges.
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Nimo-Paintsil SC, Mosore M, Addo SO, Lura T, Tagoe J, Ladzekpo D, Addae C, Bentil RE, Behene E, Dafeamekpor C, Asoala V, Fox A, Watters CM, Koehler JW, Schoepp RJ, Arimoto H, Dadzie S, Letizia A, Diclaro JW. Ticks and prevalence of tick-borne pathogens from domestic animals in Ghana. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:86. [PMID: 35279200 PMCID: PMC8917784 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05208-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ticks are important vectors of various pathogenic protozoa, bacteria and viruses that cause serious and life-threatening illnesses in humans and animals worldwide. Estimating tick-borne pathogen prevalence in tick populations is necessary to delineate how geographical differences, environmental variability and host factors influence pathogen prevalence and transmission. This study identified ticks and tick-borne pathogens in samples collected from June 2016 to December 2017 at seven sites within the Coastal, Sudan and Guinea savanna ecological zones of Ghana. Methods A total of 2016 ticks were collected from domestic animals including cattle, goats and dogs. Ticks were morphologically identified and analysed for pathogens such as Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), Alkhurma haemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV), Rickettsia spp. and Coxiella burnetii using polymerase chain reaction assays (PCR) and sequence analysis. Results Seven species were identified, with Amblyomma variegatum (60%) most frequently found, followed by Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (21%), Rhipicephalus spp. (9%), Hyalomma truncatum (6%), Hyalomma rufipes (3%), Rhipicephalus evertsi (1%) and Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) sp. (0.1%). Out of 912 pools of ticks tested, Rickettsia spp. and Coxiella burnetii DNA was found in 45.6% and 16.7% of pools, respectively, whereas no CCHFV or AHFV RNA were detected. Co-infection of bacterial DNA was identified in 9.6% of tick pools, with no statistical difference among the ecozones studied. Conclusions Based on these data, humans and animals in these ecological zones are likely at the highest risk of exposure to rickettsiosis, since ticks infected with Rickettsia spp. displayed the highest rates of infection and co-infection with C. burnetii, compared to other tick-borne pathogens in Ghana. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05208-8.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mba Mosore
- United States Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana.,Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Seth Offei Addo
- United States Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana.,Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Taylor Lura
- Navy Entomology Center of Excellence, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Janice Tagoe
- United States Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana.,Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Danielle Ladzekpo
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charlotte Addae
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ronald E Bentil
- United States Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana.,Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Eric Behene
- United States Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana.,Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Victor Asoala
- Navrongo Health Research Center, Navrongo, Upper East Region, Ghana
| | - Anne Fox
- United States Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Chaselynn M Watters
- United States Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Jeffrey W Koehler
- Diagnostic Systems Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, MD, USA
| | - Randy J Schoepp
- Diagnostic Systems Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, MD, USA
| | - Hanayo Arimoto
- Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit No. 5, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Samuel Dadzie
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Andrew Letizia
- Infectious Diseases Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring,, MD, USA
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Adamu SG, Kabir J, Umoh JU, Raji MA. Seroprevalence of Coxiella burnetii in sheep flocks in Kaduna State, Northwestern Nigeria. Acta Vet Hung 2021; 69:234-238. [PMID: 34491900 DOI: 10.1556/004.2021.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors of Q fever in sheep in the northern part of Kaduna State, Nigeria. This study aimed to determine Coxiella burnetii infection and its risk factors in sheep in Kaduna State. A total of 400 blood samples consisting of 259 samples from females and 141 from males were aseptically collected from the jugular vein of sheep from flocks in Kaduna State. The sera obtained were screened for Q fever using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). The obtained data were analysed to determine whether there is a relationship between sex, age, and the animals tested. The analysis revealed that 8.0% of the sera was seropositive by iELISA. There was no significant difference in Q fever seropositivity in the study area according to the sex of sheep (P > 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) in Q fever seropositivity according to the age of sheep. This study indicated a high seroprevalence of Q fever mainly among female animals and older sheep. Further studies are required to determine the epizootiology of Q fever in the study area more precisely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaibu Gidado Adamu
- 1 Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, P. M. B. 1069 Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
| | - Junaidu Kabir
- 2 Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
| | - Jarlath Udo Umoh
- 2 Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
| | - Mashood Abiola Raji
- 3 Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
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A case report of autochthonous Q fever with pneumonia and hepatitis in northeastern China. BIOSAFETY AND HEALTH 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bsheal.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Mangena M, Gcebe N, Pierneef R, Thompson PN, Adesiyun AA. Q Fever: Seroprevalence, Risk Factors in Slaughter Livestock and Genotypes of Coxiella burnetii in South Africa. Pathogens 2021; 10:258. [PMID: 33668366 PMCID: PMC7996333 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Q fever is a neglected zoonosis in South Africa, causing significant losses in livestock and game animals through reproductive disorders. However, there are limited studies on the extent of Coxiella burnetii infections in livestock in South Africa. Further, there is also lack of knowledge about the types of C. burnetii strains that are currently circulating in the country. Therefore, a cross-sectional, abattoir-based study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of C. burnetii and associated risk factors, and to characterize C. burnetii strains from slaughter livestock at red meat abattoirs in Gauteng, South Africa. Of the 507 animals tested, 6.9% (95% CI: 4.9-9.5%) were positive for antibodies against C. burnetii. The seroprevalence was 9.4% (31/331) in cattle, 4.3% (3/69) in sheep, and 0.9% (1/107) in pigs. Out of the 63 tissue samples from 35 seropositive animals including material from two sheep aborted fetuses from Mangaung district (Free State province), 12.7% (8/63) tested positive by IS1111 PCR. Genotyping of the eight PCR-positive tissues from eight animals by MLVA revealed two novel genotypes, not available in Coxiella MLVA databases. It is concluded that slaughter animals pose a risk of exposing abattoir and farm workers to C. burnetii in South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maruping Mangena
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (P.N.T.); (A.A.A.)
- Agricultural Research Council–Bacteriology and Zoonotic Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Private Bag X 05, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa;
| | - Nomakorinte Gcebe
- Agricultural Research Council–Bacteriology and Zoonotic Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Private Bag X 05, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa;
| | - Rian Pierneef
- Agricultural Research Council-Biotechnology Platform, 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa;
| | - Peter N. Thompson
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (P.N.T.); (A.A.A.)
| | - Abiodun A. Adesiyun
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (P.N.T.); (A.A.A.)
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
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Abbass H, Selim SAK, Sobhy MM, El-Mokhtar MA, Elhariri M, Abd-Elhafeez HH. High prevalence of Coxiella burnetii infection in humans and livestock in Assiut, Egypt: A serological and molecular survey. Vet World 2020; 13:2578-2586. [PMID: 33487974 PMCID: PMC7811535 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2020.2578-2586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Q fever is considered a neglected zoonotic disease and is caused by Coxiella burnetii. Very little information is available on C. burnetii infections in cattle, sheep, and goat populations in Egypt. The aim of this study was to identify the seroprevalence of C. burnetii in humans and livestock and to test for the presence of C. burnetii DNA in sera from seropositive animals and humans. MATERIALS AND METHODS Blood samples were collected from 160 apparently healthy farm animals and 120 patients from three hospitals of the Assiut Governorate throughout 2017/2018. These populations were tested for antibodies against C. burnetii phase II antigen by immunofluorescence assay [IFA] and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Seropositive samples were subjected to real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). RESULTS The results of the IFA revealed C. burnetii seroprevalence rates of 45.3%, 56.0%, 45.7%, and 53.3% in cattle, sheep, goats, and humans, respectively. In humans, the seroprevalence rates were 52.1%, 30.4%, 37.5%, 74.1%, and 62.5% in patients with fever of unknown origin, influenza, kidney dialysis, hepatitis C virus, and hepatitis B virus, respectively. Likewise, by ELISA, the seroprevalence in bovine was 50.7%; sheep, 60.0%; goats, 51.4%; and humans, 55.0% (54.3%, 30.4%, 37.5%, 77.8%, and 62.5% in patients with fever of unknown origin, influenza, kidney dialysis, hepatitis C virus, and hepatitis B virus, respectively). RT-qPCR targeting the repetitive element IS1111 confirmed the presence of C. burnetii DNA. CONCLUSION These results proved that apparently healthy cattle, sheep, and goats may be very important reservoirs of C. burnetii infection. In light of these data, the effect of Q fever on the replication of hepatitis virus remains unclear. Although hepatitis is one of the main aspects of acute Q fever, the influence of hepatitis on Q fever remains to be investigated. Q fever is not a reportable disease in Egypt, and clinical cases may rarely be recognized by the health-care system. Additional information on the epidemiology of C. burnetii in Egypt is warranted, including other associated problems such as the distribution of infections, pathologic hallmarks, and molecular typing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hypy Abbass
- Department of Microbiology, Microbiologist at South Egypt Cancer Institute of Assiut University. Egypt
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | | | - Mona M Sobhy
- Department of Reproductive Diseases, Animal Reproduction Research Institute, Animal Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A El-Mokhtar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Elhariri
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hanan H Abd-Elhafeez
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
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Tesfaye A, Sahele M, Sori T, Guyassa C, Garoma A. Seroprevalence and associated risk factors for chlamydiosis, coxiellosis and brucellosis in sheep and goats in Borana pastoral area, southern Ethiopia. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:145. [PMID: 32434500 PMCID: PMC7238558 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02360-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abortion is considered an important disease problem of small ruminants in Borana pastoral area. A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of chlamydiosis, coxiellosis (Q-fever) and brucellosis in small ruminants in selected districts of Borana zone. RESULTS A total of 506 sheep and goats were tested using serological tests. Fifty (9.88%; 95% CI: 7.42, 12.82), 144 (28.46%; 95% CI: 24.56, 32.61) and none (0.00%; 95% CI: 0.00, 0.59) of them were positive for chlamydiosis, coxiellosis and brucellosis, respectively. History of abortion was recorded in 136 (32.00%; CI: 27.59, 36.67) of sheep and goats in the study area. The logistic regression analysis, however, showed that statistically significant difference ccurred among districts and between the species of small ruminants. The prevalence odd of antibodies against C. abortus was significantly lower in Miyo, Dire and Teltelle districts compared to Dillo. The odd of infection with this bacterium was lower in sheep than goats. Similarly the odd of infection with C. burnettii was significantly higher in Dillo district than the rest of the districts studied, higher in goats than sheep and higher in adult animals than young ones. CONCLUSION High prevalence of abortion is observed in sheep and goats in the study area. High seropositivity of C. burnetii and C. abortus in both sheep and goats tested implies risks of human infection by both diseases. Thus, attention needs to be paid to further study of both diseases in animals and humans in the area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asamenew Tesfaye
- National Anima Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center (NAHDIC), P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
| | - Mesfin Sahele
- National Anima Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center (NAHDIC), P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
| | - Teshale Sori
- Collage of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Addis Ababa University, P. O. Box, 34 Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Chala Guyassa
- National Anima Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center (NAHDIC), P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Garoma
- National Anima Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center (NAHDIC), P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
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Folitse RD, Opoku-Agyemang T, Amemor E, Opoku ED, Bentum KE, Emikpe BO. Serological evidence of Coxiella burnetii infection in slaughtered sheep and goats at Kumasi Abattoir, Ghana. J Immunoassay Immunochem 2019; 41:152-157. [PMID: 32028862 DOI: 10.1080/15321819.2019.1701012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Q fever, caused by Coxiella burnetii, is an important zoonosis worldwide. Q fever is documented in many parts of the world; however, information on the disease in Ghana is scanty. This study was therefore conducted to provide evidence of exposure of sheep and goats slaughtered at the Kumasi Abattoir to Coxiella burnetii. A total of 350 serum samples collected from 175 sheep and 175 goats were analyzed for the presence of C. burnetii antibodies using a commercial ELISA kit (ID Vet). Results of the study established a seroprevalence of 28.57% in goats, 16.57% in sheep and an overall seroprevalence of 22.29% in sheep and goats; 20.57% for male sheep, 23.86% for female sheep, 26.44% for male goats and 30.68% for female goats. Results showed that goats are more at risk to the infection than sheep however sex is not a risk factor. This study confirms the existence of Q fever in sheep and goats in Ghana hence, the disease should be considered as a public health risk to workers at the abattoir and other stakeholders in the sheep and goat production chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael D Folitse
- Pathobiology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Tony Opoku-Agyemang
- Anatomy and Physiology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Esther Amemor
- Department of Clinical studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel D Opoku
- School of veterinary medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kingsley Emmanuel Bentum
- School of veterinary medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Benjamin Obukowho Emikpe
- School of veterinary medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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