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Mlangeni LN, Ramatla T, Lekota KE, Price C, Thekisoe O, Weldon C. Occurrence, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Virulence Profiles of Salmonella Serovars Isolated from Wild Reptiles in South Africa. Int J Microbiol 2024; 2024:5213895. [PMID: 38222969 PMCID: PMC10787053 DOI: 10.1155/2024/5213895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Reptiles are carriers of an array of microorganisms, including significant zoonotic bacteria of the genus Salmonella, which cause a disease referred to as salmonellosis that affects both animals and humans. This study investigated the occurrence of Salmonella serovars in wild reptiles at Timbavati Private Game Reserve in Limpopo Province, South Africa, and examined their virulence and antimicrobial resistance gene profiles. A total of 19 wild reptiles were sampled, which resulted in 30 presumptive Salmonella isolates. The isolates were identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) by amplifying the invA gene and were further confirmed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Salmonella serovars were detected in chameleons (36.8%), lizards (31.6%), snakes (15.8%), and tortoises (15.8%). The use of 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Salamae (30%), S. enterica subsp. enterica (16.7%), S. enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium (13.3%), and S. enterica subsp. enterica serovar Indiana (13.3%) were the four most common subspecies among the investigated 30 isolates. Detected virulence genes included pagN (100%), hilA (96.7%), ssrB (96.7%), prgH (86.7%), and marT (86.7%). The isolates exhibited resistance to nalidixic acid (43.3%) and kanamycin (43.3%), followed by streptomycin (16.7%) and ciprofloxacin (3.3%). Antibiotic-resistant genes were detected as follows: strA, strB, qnrA, qnrS, parC, aadA, aac(6')-Ib, and aac(6')-Ib-cr at 33.3%, 6.7%, 16.7, 13.3%, 10%, 23.3%, 6.7%, and 10%, respectively. The findings highlight the necessity of educational initiatives aimed at reducing reptile-related infections. Effective antibiotic treatment appears promising for infection, given the minimal drug resistance observed in reptile Salmonella serovars in the current study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lungile N. Mlangeni
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
| | - Tsepo Ramatla
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
- Gastrointestinal Research Unit, Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
| | - Kgaugelo E. Lekota
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
| | - Cormac Price
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
| | - Oriel Thekisoe
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
| | - Che Weldon
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
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Pees M, Brockmann M, Steiner N, Marschang RE. Salmonella in reptiles: a review of occurrence, interactions, shedding and risk factors for human infections. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1251036. [PMID: 37822870 PMCID: PMC10562597 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1251036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Salmonella are considered a part of the normal reptile gut microbiota, but have also been associated with disease in reptiles. Reptile-associated salmonellosis (RAS) can pose a serious health threat to humans, especially children, and an estimated 6% of human sporadic salmonellosis cases have been attributed to direct or indirect contact with reptiles, although the exact number is not known. Two literature searches were conducted for this review. The first evaluated reports of the prevalence of Salmonella in the intestinal tracts of healthy reptiles. Salmonella were most commonly detected in snakes (56.0% overall), followed by lizards (36.9%) and tortoises (34.2%), with lower detection rates reported for turtles (18.6%) and crocodilians (9%). Reptiles in captivity were significantly more likely to shed Salmonella than those sampled in the wild. The majority of Salmonella strains described in reptiles belonged to subspecies I (70.3%), followed by subspecies IIIb (29.7%) and subspecies II (19.6%). The second literature search focused on reports of RAS, revealing that the highest number of cases was associated with contact with turtles (35.3%), followed by lizards (27.1%) and snakes (20.0%). Reptiles associated with RAS therefore did not directly reflect prevalence of Salmonella reported in healthy representatives of a given reptile group. Clinical symptoms associated with RAS predominantly involved the gastrointestinal tract, but also included fever, central nervous symptoms, problems with circulation, respiratory symptoms and others. Disease caused by Salmonella in reptiles appears to be dependent on additional factors, including stress, inadequate husbandry and hygiene, and other infectious agents. While it has been suggested that reptile serovars may cause more severe disease than human-derived strains, and some data is available on invasiveness of individual strains in cell culture, limited information is available on potential mechanisms influencing invasiveness and immune evasion in reptiles and in RAS. Strategies to mitigate the spread of Salmonella through reptiles and to reduce RAS focus mostly on education and hygiene, and have often been met with some success, but additional efforts are needed. Many aspects regarding Salmonella in reptiles remain poorly understood, including the mechanisms by which Salmonella persist in reptile hosts without causing disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Pees
- Department of Small Mammal, Reptile and Avian Diseases, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | | | - Natalie Steiner
- Department of Small Mammal, Reptile and Avian Diseases, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
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Pino-Vera R, Abreu-Acosta N, Foronda P. Study of Zoonotic Pathogens in Alien Population of Veiled Chameleons ( Chamaeleo calyptratus) in the Canary Islands (Spain). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2288. [PMID: 37508064 PMCID: PMC10376624 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Veiled chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus) are native to the Arabian Peninsula that have been introduced as pets in many regions around the world, such as the Canary Islands (Spain). In this work, the gastrointestinal content from veiled chameleons of Gran Canaria island (Canary Islands) has been analyzed to determine the presence of zoonotic bacteria. Forty animals were analyzed using different selective culture media and PCR. The most isolated bacteria were Yersinia enterocolitica (52.4%), followed by Salmonella spp. (40.0%), with positive isolates for Salmonella Tyhpi and Salmonella Typhimurium. Pseudomonas spp. was found in 32.5% of the chameleons. More than half were positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus spp. was detected in six animals plus one isolate of non-resistant Staphylococcus hominis. Multiple mycobacteria species belonging to both tuberculous and non-tuberculous complexes were identified as well as Escherichia coli carrying the stx1 and eae virulence genes with 12.5% and 7.5% prevalence, respectively. Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter spp., and Vibrio spp. were found in lower proportion (<5%). The results obtained indicate that veiled chameleons in Gran Canaria could be playing a role in the maintenance and dissemination of the pathogens detected, harming public health and biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Román Pino-Vera
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Programa de Doctorado Ciencias Médicas y Farmacéuticas, Desarrollo y Calidad de Vida, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico F. Sánchez, s/n, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Néstor Abreu-Acosta
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Nertalab S.L.U., 38001 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Pilar Foronda
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Department Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
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Santana-Hernández KM, Rodríguez-Ponce E, Medina IR, Acosta-Hernández B, Priestnall SL, Vega S, Marin C, Cerdà-Cuéllar M, Marco-Fuertes A, Ayats T, García Beltrán T, Lupiola-Gómez PA. One Health Approach: Invasive California Kingsnake ( Lampropeltis californiae) as an Important Source of Antimicrobial Drug-Resistant Salmonella Clones on Gran Canaria Island. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1790. [PMID: 37889724 PMCID: PMC10251910 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The increase in the reptile population has led to a rise in the number of zoonotic infections due to close contact with reptiles, with reptile-associated salmonellosis being particularly relevant. California kingsnake invasion not only threatens the endemic reptile population of the island of Gran Canaria (Spain) but also poses serious public health problems by spreading zoonotic pathogens and their antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to the environment. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the occurrence, genetic diversity, and AMR among Salmonella spp. strains isolated from California kingsnakes in Gran Canaria Island (Spain). Of 73 invasive individuals captured, 20.5% carried Salmonella spp., belonging to different subspecies and serovars, with subsp. salamae as the most abundant. Pulsed-field electrophoresis showed high genetic diversity among subsp. salamae isolates, and among these, 73.3% showed resistance to at least one of the antimicrobials tested. In conclusion, the present study revealed the importance of wild invasive California kingsnakes as reservoirs of drug-resistant Salmonella spp. that could pose a direct threat to livestock and humans. Identification of drug-resistant Salmonella strains in wildlife provides valuable information on potential routes of transmission that involve risks to public and animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M. Santana-Hernández
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35413 Arucas, Spain; (K.M.S.-H.); (E.R.-P.); (I.R.M.); (B.A.-H.)
| | - Eligia Rodríguez-Ponce
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35413 Arucas, Spain; (K.M.S.-H.); (E.R.-P.); (I.R.M.); (B.A.-H.)
| | - Inmaculada Rosario Medina
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35413 Arucas, Spain; (K.M.S.-H.); (E.R.-P.); (I.R.M.); (B.A.-H.)
- Instituto Universitario de Sanidad Animal (IUSA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35413 Arucas, Spain
| | - Begoña Acosta-Hernández
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35413 Arucas, Spain; (K.M.S.-H.); (E.R.-P.); (I.R.M.); (B.A.-H.)
- Instituto Universitario de Sanidad Animal (IUSA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35413 Arucas, Spain
| | - Simon L. Priestnall
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK;
| | - Santiago Vega
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Spain; (C.M.)
| | - Clara Marin
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Spain; (C.M.)
| | - Marta Cerdà-Cuéllar
- Unitat Mixta d’Investigació IRTA-UAB en Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Barcelona, Spain
- IRTA, Programa de Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Marco-Fuertes
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Spain; (C.M.)
| | - Teresa Ayats
- Unitat Mixta d’Investigació IRTA-UAB en Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Barcelona, Spain
- IRTA, Programa de Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Teresa García Beltrán
- Instituto Universitario de Sanidad Animal (IUSA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35413 Arucas, Spain
| | - Pablo A. Lupiola-Gómez
- Departamento de Ciencias Clínicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35413 Arucas, Spain
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Song D, He X, Chi Y, Zhang Z, Shuai J, Wang H, Li Q, Du M. Cytotoxicity and Antimicrobial Resistance of Salmonella enterica Subspecies Isolated from Raised Reptiles in Beijing, China. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020315. [PMID: 36670855 PMCID: PMC9854948 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reptiles are asymptomatic carriers of Salmonella spp. Reptile-associated Salmonella infections have been noticed as a significant contributor to overall human salmonellosis. However, it remains unclear regarding the prevalence of reptile-associated Salmonella in China. METHODS Fecal and gastrointestinal mucosal samples were taken from 104 snakes, 21 lizards, and 52 chelonians and cultured on selective medium. The positive clones were validated and annotated by biochemical screening and multiplex PCR verification. In addition, the antibiotic resistance of identified Salmonella isolates was detected and followed by cytotoxic activity detection on human colon cells via co-culturation. RESULTS The overall prevalence of Salmonella in reptiles was 25.99%, with rates of 30.77%, 47.62%, and 7.69% in snakes, lizards, and chelonians, respectively. Further, all isolates showed variable drug-resistant activity to 18 antibiotics, of which 14 strains (30.43%) were resistant to more than eight kinds of antibiotics. More than half of isolated Salmonella strains were more toxic to host cells than the standard strain, SL1344. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) results showed that all lizard-associated strains belong to 4 serovar types, and 7 of them fall into the highly pathogenic serovars "Carmel" and "Pomona." CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight the potential threat of zoonotic salmonellosis from captive reptiles in the Beijing area of China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingka Song
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Animal Education, Beijing 102206, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xuebai He
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Animal Education, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yiming Chi
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Animal Education, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Zhao Zhang
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Animal Education, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Jing Shuai
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Animal Education, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Correspondence: (H.W.); (Q.L.); (M.D.); Tel.: +86-021-63846590 (H.W.); +86-010-80799141 (Q.L.); +86-010-80799149 (M.D.)
| | - Qiuming Li
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Animal Education, Beijing 102206, China
- Correspondence: (H.W.); (Q.L.); (M.D.); Tel.: +86-021-63846590 (H.W.); +86-010-80799141 (Q.L.); +86-010-80799149 (M.D.)
| | - Mengze Du
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Animal Education, Beijing 102206, China
- Correspondence: (H.W.); (Q.L.); (M.D.); Tel.: +86-021-63846590 (H.W.); +86-010-80799141 (Q.L.); +86-010-80799149 (M.D.)
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Merkevičienė L, Butrimaitė-Ambrozevičienė Č, Paškevičius G, Pikūnienė A, Virgailis M, Dailidavičienė J, Daukšienė A, Šiugždinienė R, Ruzauskas M. Serological Variety and Antimicrobial Resistance in Salmonella Isolated from Reptiles. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11060836. [PMID: 35741357 PMCID: PMC9219617 DOI: 10.3390/biology11060836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Salmonella enterica is one of the best adapted bacterial pathogens causing infections in a wide variety of vertebrate species. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Salmonella in different reptile species and to evaluate their serological variety and patterns of antimicrobial resistance. In total, 97 samples from 25 wild and domesticated reptile species were investigated in Lithuania. Serological variety, as well as phenotypical and genotypical resistance to antimicrobials, were investigated. Fifty isolates of Salmonella were obtained from the ninety-seven tested samples (51.5%; 95% CI 41.2−61.2). A significantly higher prevalence of Salmonella was detected in domesticated individuals (61.3%; 95% CI 50.0−71.5) compared with wild ones (18.2%; 95% CI 7.3−38.5). All isolates belonged to a single species, Salmonella enterica. Results demonstrated that reptiles carry a large variety of Salmonella serovars. Thirty-four isolates (68%) of Salmonella were resistant to at least one antimicrobial drug. The most frequent resistance of the isolates was to streptomycin (26%), cefoxitin, gentamicin, tetracycline and chloramphenicol (16%). Genes encoding resistance to tetracyclines, aminoglycosides, sulphonamides and trimethoprim were detected. No integrons that are associated with horizontal gene transfer were found. Data obtained provided knowledge about the adaptation of Salmonella in reptiles. Healthy individuals, irrespective of their origin, often carry Salmonella, including multi-resistant strains. Due to its large serological diversity, zoonotic potential and antimicrobial resistance, Salmonella in reptiles poses a risk to other animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Merkevičienė
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės g. 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.M.); (J.D.); (A.D.)
| | - Česlova Butrimaitė-Ambrozevičienė
- Department of Bacteriological Investigations, National Food and Veterinary Risk Assessment Institute, J. Kairiūkščio g. 10, LT-08409 Vilniu, Lithuania;
| | - Gerardas Paškevičius
- Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio al. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Alma Pikūnienė
- Lithuanian Zoological Garden, Radvilėnų pl. 21, 50299 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Marius Virgailis
- Microbiology and Virology Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės g. 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania; (M.V.); (R.Š.)
| | - Jurgita Dailidavičienė
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės g. 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.M.); (J.D.); (A.D.)
| | - Agila Daukšienė
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės g. 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.M.); (J.D.); (A.D.)
- Institute of Animal Rearing Technologies, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės g. 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Rita Šiugždinienė
- Microbiology and Virology Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės g. 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania; (M.V.); (R.Š.)
| | - Modestas Ruzauskas
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės g. 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.M.); (J.D.); (A.D.)
- Microbiology and Virology Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilžės g. 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania; (M.V.); (R.Š.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +370-615-15240
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Pathology and Prevalence of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria: A Study of 398 Pet Reptiles. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12101279. [PMID: 35625125 PMCID: PMC9137941 DOI: 10.3390/ani12101279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Reptiles are potential reservoirs of bacteria that could be transmitted, thus becoming a zoonotic hazard. (1) Background: This three-year investigation surveyed the pathological status of 398 pet reptiles: chelonians, snakes (venomous/non-venomous), and lizards. The main pathological entities found were related to the skin, the sensory organs, the digestive system, the respiratory system, the cardiovascular system, the urinary system, the genitalia, the osteo−muscular tract, surgical issues, tumors, and intoxications. (2) Methods: In 25 individuals treated with antibiotics, no clinical healing was recorded, for this reason, an antimicrobial resistance profile analysis of the 43 samples gathered was processed. An antibiogram was performed using the VITEK®2 ID-GP (bio-Mérieux, Marcy l’Etoile, France) automated platform, with 22 bacterial strains being isolated. (3) Results: The statistics (ANOVA) revealed that the most common disease category was diseases of the digestive system, followed by diseases of the skin, respiratory system, nervous system, and reproductive system. A significant correlation (p < 0.01) between disease incidence and reptile species was reported, with correlations found between all species and diseases diagnosed. The most common bacteria isolated were Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Stenotrophomas (Xanthomonas) maltophilia, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, and Salmonella spp., but Beta-hemolytic Streptococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, Citrobacter spp., and Proteus spp. were also identified. (4) Conclusions: These microorganisms revealed degrees of resistance against penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides, lincosamides, aminoglycosides, and tetracyclines. The animals can be categorized according to their sensitivity to diseases in the following order (most sensitive to least sensitive): chelonians, venomous snakes, non-venomous snakes, and lizards.
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Guard J. Through the Looking Glass: Genome, Phenome, and Interactome of Salmonella enterica. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11050581. [PMID: 35631102 PMCID: PMC9144603 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11050581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This review revisits previous concepts on biological phenomenon contributing to the success of the Salmonella enterica subspecies I as a pathogen and expands upon them to include progress in epidemiology based on whole genome sequencing (WGS). Discussion goes beyond epidemiological uses of WGS to consider how phenotype, which is the biological character of an organism, can be correlated with its genotype to develop a knowledge of the interactome. Deciphering genome interactions with proteins, the impact of metabolic flux, epigenetic modifications, and other complex biochemical processes will lead to new therapeutics, control measures, environmental remediations, and improved design of vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Guard
- U. S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, U. S. National Poultry Research Center, 950 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30605, USA
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Zając M, Skarżyńska M, Lalak A, Kwit R, Śmiałowska-Węglińska A, Pasim P, Szulowski K, Wasyl D. Salmonella in Captive Reptiles and Their Environment-Can We Tame the Dragon? Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9051012. [PMID: 34066739 PMCID: PMC8151916 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9051012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Reptiles are considered a reservoir of a variety of Salmonella (S.) serovars. Nevertheless, due to a lack of large-scale research, the importance of Reptilia as a Salmonella vector still remains not completely recognized. A total of 731 samples collected from reptiles and their environment were tested. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of Salmonella in exotic reptiles kept in Poland and to confirm Salmonella contamination of the environment after reptile exhibitions. The study included Salmonella isolation and identification, followed by epidemiological analysis of the antimicrobial resistance of the isolates. Implementation of a pathway additional to the standard Salmonella isolation protocol led to a 21% increase in the Salmonella serovars detection rate. The study showed a high occurrence of Salmonella, being the highest at 92.2% in snakes, followed by lizards (83.7%) and turtles (60.0%). The pathogen was also found in 81.2% of swabs taken from table and floor surfaces after reptile exhibitions and in two out of three egg samples. A total of 918 Salmonella strains belonging to 207 serovars and serological variants were obtained. We have noted the serovars considered important with respect to public health, i.e., S. Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium, and S. Kentucky. The study proves that exotic reptiles in Poland are a relevant reservoir of Salmonella.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Zając
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.S.); (A.L.); (R.K.); (A.Ś.-W.); (P.P.); (K.S.); (D.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-81-889-3419
| | - Magdalena Skarżyńska
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.S.); (A.L.); (R.K.); (A.Ś.-W.); (P.P.); (K.S.); (D.W.)
| | - Anna Lalak
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.S.); (A.L.); (R.K.); (A.Ś.-W.); (P.P.); (K.S.); (D.W.)
| | - Renata Kwit
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.S.); (A.L.); (R.K.); (A.Ś.-W.); (P.P.); (K.S.); (D.W.)
| | - Aleksandra Śmiałowska-Węglińska
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.S.); (A.L.); (R.K.); (A.Ś.-W.); (P.P.); (K.S.); (D.W.)
| | - Paulina Pasim
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.S.); (A.L.); (R.K.); (A.Ś.-W.); (P.P.); (K.S.); (D.W.)
| | - Krzysztof Szulowski
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.S.); (A.L.); (R.K.); (A.Ś.-W.); (P.P.); (K.S.); (D.W.)
| | - Dariusz Wasyl
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.S.); (A.L.); (R.K.); (A.Ś.-W.); (P.P.); (K.S.); (D.W.)
- Department of Omics Analyses, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland
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Renfert K, Rabsch W, Fruth A, Marschang RE, Speck S, Pees M. Influence of Salmonella specific bacteriophages (O1; S16) on the shedding of naturally occurring Salmonella and an orally applied Salmonella Eastbourne strain in bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps). Vet Med Sci 2020; 7:534-547. [PMID: 33161646 PMCID: PMC8025629 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This study determined the passage time and phage propagation time of salmonella specific phages, Felix O1 and S16, in 10 bearded dragons, based on re‐isolation from cloacal swabs and faecal samples following oral administration, as a possible tool for reducing salmonella shedding. In Study 1, Felix O1 was administered orally for 12 consecutive days. Over 60 days, swabs were taken from the oral cavity and cloaca and qualitative Salmonella detection as well as salmonella quantification from faecal samples were performed. In Study 2, a phage cocktail (Felix O1 and S16) was administered to half of the tested animals. Salmonella (S.) Eastbourne was also given orally to all animals. Oral and cloacal swabs were tested as in Study 1, and faecal samples were collected for phage quantification. Various Salmonella serovars were detectable at the beginning of the study. The numbers of serovars detected declined over the course of the study. S. Kisarawe was most commonly detected. Salmonella titres ranged from 102 to 107 cfu/g faeces. The phages (Felix O1 and S16) were detectable for up to 20 days after the last administration. The initial phage titres ranged from 103 to 107 pfu/ml. The study shows that the phages were able to replicate in the intestine, and were shed for a prolonged period and therefore could contribute to a reduction of Salmonella shedding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Renfert
- Department for Birds and Reptiles, Veterinary teaching hospital, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Rabsch
- National Reference Centre for Salmonella and other bacterial Enterics, Robert Koch Institute, Wernigerode, Germany
| | - Angelika Fruth
- National Reference Centre for Salmonella and other bacterial Enterics, Robert Koch Institute, Wernigerode, Germany
| | | | - Stephanie Speck
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Michael Pees
- Department for Birds and Reptiles, Veterinary teaching hospital, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Bjelland AM, Sandvik LM, Skarstein MM, Svendal L, Debenham JJ. Prevalence of Salmonella serovars isolated from reptiles in Norwegian zoos. Acta Vet Scand 2020; 62:3. [PMID: 31918736 PMCID: PMC6953243 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-020-0502-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Reptiles are known to be asymptomatic carriers of Salmonella spp. in their gastrointestinal mucosa and a variety of Salmonella serovars including exotic serovars mainly associated with reptiles as well as human pathogenic serovars have been isolated. There are many case reports of reptile-associated Salmonella infections worldwide, including one case in Norway in 2000. In August 2017, there was a legislative change in Norway that allowed more permissive reptile ownership and legalized the keeping of 19 different reptile species by private persons. There has been a concern that this new legislation will lead to an increase in reptile-associated salmonellosis in Norway, however knowledge is lacking on the occurrence of Salmonella spp. in Norwegian reptiles. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in captive reptile species in Norway, identify the serovars and evaluate their zoonotic potential. Thus, cloacal swabs were taken from 53 snakes, 15 lizards and 35 chelonians from three Norwegian zoos, and assessed for the presence of Salmonella spp. by culture, biochemical testing and serotyping. Results In total, 43% of the reptiles were shedding Salmonella spp., with a prevalence of 62%, 67% and 3% in snakes, lizards and chelonians, respectively. A total of 26 different serovars were found, including Salmonella enterica spp. enterica (40%) and S. enterica spp. arizonae (4%), both of which are considered to have a high zoonotic potential. S. enterica spp. diarizonae, salamae and houtenae were also identified, however these serovars are considered to have a lower zoonotic potential. Conclusions The current study demonstrates that captive Norwegian reptiles are carriers of potentially zoonotic Salmonella spp. Given the increasing popularity of reptiles as pets and the legislative change, reptile-associated salmonellosis could become an increasingly important public health concern in Norway. Adequate public information about the risk of Salmonella infection as well as preventive measures to avoid Salmonella transmission from reptiles to humans is needed. The risk of Salmonella infection is considered low when recommended precautions are taken and good hygiene exhibited.
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12
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PREVALENCE, INCIDENCE, AND IDENTIFICATION OF SALMONELLA ENTERICA FROM WILD AND CAPTIVE GRAND CAYMAN IGUANAS ( CYCLURA LEWISI). J Zoo Wildl Med 2019; 49:959-966. [PMID: 30592912 DOI: 10.1638/2017-0234.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
From 2005 to 2017, a total of 334 fresh fecal samples was obtained from 236 captive and free-ranging Grand Cayman iguanas ( Cyclura lewisi) in a captive breeding and release program. One-hundred-sixteen samples were obtained from individual captive iguanas living in enclosures with natural substrate, 161 samples from captive iguanas living in elevated wire-bottom enclosures, and 57 samples from free-ranging wild iguanas. These samples were cultured to isolate subspecies of Salmonella enterica. as part of prerelease health evaluations, and to determine baseline health assessments of captive and wild populations of these iguanas. There was a 5.45% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14-15.12) prevalence of S. enterica in iguanas housed on natural substrate ( n = 51), 3.85% (CI: 1.42-8.19) in iguanas housed in elevated wire-bottom enclosures ( n = 157), and 6.06% (CI: 0.74-20.23) in wild free-ranging iguanas ( n = 38). These results demonstrate no significant difference ( P = 0.73) in S. enterica prevalence among these housing conditions. The incidence of S. enterica from 2005 to 2017 in the population sampled was 4.19% (CI 3.10-5.29). Ten different serotypes of S. enterica were isolated from 14 iguanas. Salmonella enterica ser. Saintpaul was the most frequent isolate. Annual S. enterica prevalence was calculated for iguanas housed in different enclosure types, for free-roaming wild iguanas, and for all cultured iguanas. The highest yearly prevalence was 23.08% (CI: 5.04-53.81) in iguanas tested in 2007 ( n = 21). No Salmonella enterica were cultured in 2005, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2015. These results suggest that the shedding of S. enterica was not significantly different between housing types or between captive versus wild iguanas and therefore that release of captive iguanas did not significantly affect the health of the wild population or their exposure to S. enterica.
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Baranzelli A, Loïez C, Bervar JF, Scherpereel A, Wallet F. The snake raiser lung: An unusual cause of Salmonella enterica subspecies arizonae pneumonia. Med Mal Infect 2017; 47:424-425. [PMID: 28602385 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2017.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Baranzelli
- Service de pneumologie, CHRU de Lille, université de Lille 2, 59037 Lille cedex, France
| | - C Loïez
- Laboratoire de bactériologie-hygiène, centre de biologie pathologie, boulevard du Pr-Leclercq, 59037 Lille cedex, France
| | - J F Bervar
- Service de pneumologie, CHRU de Lille, université de Lille 2, 59037 Lille cedex, France
| | - A Scherpereel
- Service de pneumologie, CHRU de Lille, université de Lille 2, 59037 Lille cedex, France
| | - F Wallet
- Laboratoire de bactériologie-hygiène, centre de biologie pathologie, boulevard du Pr-Leclercq, 59037 Lille cedex, France.
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COMPARISON OF FRESH AND FROZEN FECAL SAMPLES FOR DETECTION OF ENTERIC SALMONELLA FROM CAPTIVE INDIAN STAR TORTOISES (GEOCHELONE ELEGANS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2015; 46:187-90. [PMID: 26056867 DOI: 10.1638/2014-0025r1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of frozen fecal samples in enrichment media to detect Salmonella spp. strains was evaluated in Indian star tortoises (Geochelone elegans) to determine the utility of this test method for field collection. Fresh fecal samples were collected from 10 captive adult Indian star tortoises. Each sample was split, with one portion in enrichment media at room temperature for 1 or 2 days before submission to a reference laboratory for standard enteric culture. The other was placed in the same enrichment media and frozen at -20°C for 2 wk. Afterwards, it was transferred to a -80°C freezer for 1 mo before submission to the same reference laboratory. These freezer temperatures and holding times were selected to replicate typical field collection procedures. Salmonella enterica was isolated from all 10 fresh samples but from only six frozen samples. Statistically, results showed no significant difference between the two methods; however, this may be due to the limited sample size, and if so, utilization of frozen fecal samples to determine Salmonella spp. prevalence may underestimate the actual prevalence.
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Gaulin C, Currie A, Gravel G, Hamel M, Leblanc MA, Ramsay D, Bekal S. Summary of 11 years of enteric outbreak investigations and criteria to initiate an investigation, Province of Quebec, 2002 through 2012. J Food Prot 2014; 77:1563-70. [PMID: 25198848 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-13-530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
This article presents a retrospective analysis of enteric disease outbreak investigations led by or conducted in collaboration with provincial health authorities in the Province of Quebec from 2002 through 2012. Objectives were to characterize enteric disease outbreaks, quantify and describe those for which a source was identified (including the control measures implemented), identify factors that contributed to or impeded identification of the source, and recommend areas for improvement in outbreak investigations (including establishment of criteria to initiate investigations). A descriptive analysis of enteric disease outbreak summaries recorded in a provincial database since 2002 was conducted, and corresponding outbreak reports were reviewed. Among 61 enteric disease outbreaks investigated, primary pathogens involved were Salmonella (46%), Escherichia coli O157:H7 (25%), and Listeria monocytogenes (13%). Sources were identified for 37 (61%) of 61 of the outbreaks, and descriptive studies were sufficient to identify the source for 26 (70%) of these. During the descriptive phase of the investigation, the causes of 21 (81%) of 26 outbreaks were identified by promptly collecting samples of suspected foods based on case interviews. Causes of outbreaks were more likely to be detected by weekly surveillance or alert systems (odds ratio = 6.0, P = 0.04) than by serotyping or molecular typing surveillance and were more likely to be associated with a common event or location (odds ratio = 11.0, P = 0.023). Among the 37 outbreaks for which causes were identified, 24 (65%) were associated with contaminated food, and recalls were the primary control measure implemented (54%). Review of enteric outbreaks investigated at the provincial level in Québec has increased the province's ability to quantify success and identify factors that can promote success. Multiple criteria should be taken into account to identify case clusters that are more likely to be resolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette Gaulin
- Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux du Québec, 1075 chemin Ste-Foy, Québec, Province de Québec, Canada G1S 2M1.
| | - Andrea Currie
- Outbreak Management Division, Centre for Foodborne, Environmental and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Unit 120, 255 Woodlawn Road West, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1H 8J1
| | - Geneviève Gravel
- Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux, 201 rue Crémazie Est, Montréal, Province de Québec, Canada H2M 1L2
| | - Meghan Hamel
- Outbreak Management Division, Centre for Foodborne, Environmental and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, 2932 Baseline Road, Tower A, Room 327B, AL 3303B, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0K9
| | - Marie-Andree Leblanc
- Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux du Québec, 1075 chemin Ste-Foy, Québec, Province de Québec, Canada G1S 2M1
| | - Danielle Ramsay
- Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation du Québec, 200 chemin Ste-Foy, 11ème étage, Québec, Province de Québec, Canada G1R 4X6
| | - Sadjia Bekal
- Laboratoire de santé publique du Québec, 20045 chemin Ste-Marie, Sainte-Anne de Bellevue, Québec, Province de Québec, Canada H9X 3R5
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Erdozain G, KuKanich K, Chapman B, Powell D. Best Practices for Planning Events Encouraging Human-Animal Interactions. Zoonoses Public Health 2014; 62:90-9. [DOI: 10.1111/zph.12117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G. Erdozain
- College of Veterinary Medicine; Kansas State University; Manhattan KS USA
| | - K. KuKanich
- Department of Clinical Sciences; Kansas State University; Manhattan KS USA
| | - B. Chapman
- Department of 4-H Youth Development and Family & Consumer Sciences; North Carolina State University; Raleigh NC USA
| | - D. Powell
- Powell food safety; Brisbane QLD Australia
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Stull JW, Peregrine AS, Sargeant JM, Weese JS. Pet husbandry and infection control practices related to zoonotic disease risks in Ontario, Canada. BMC Public Health 2013; 13:520. [PMID: 23714625 PMCID: PMC3668296 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-13-520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many human infections are transmitted through contact with animals (zoonoses), including household pets. Despite this concern, there is limited knowledge of the public’s pet husbandry and infection control practices. The objective of this study was to characterize zoonotic disease related-husbandry and infection preventive practices in pet-owning households in Ontario, Canada. Methods A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to individuals at two multi-physician clinics in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada during 2010. One adult from each household was invited to participate in the study. Results Four hundred one pet-owners completed the questionnaire. Households reported ownership of dogs (68%), cats (48%), fish (13%), exotic mammals (7%), such as hamsters, and reptiles and birds (each 6%). Across all species, individuals at higher risk of infections (i.e. < 5yrs, ≥ 65yrs, immunocompromised) were often (46-57%) present in households. Children < 16 yrs of age had close pet contact, as households reported dogs (13%) and cats (30%) usually slept in a child’s bed and dogs often licked a child’s face (24%). Household husbandry practices that increase zoonotic disease risk were frequently identified; some fed high-risk foods (i.e. raw eggs, raw meat, or raw animal product treats) to their dogs (28%) or cats (3%); 14% of reptile-owning households allowed the pet to roam through the kitchen or washed it in the kitchen sink. Reported hand washing by children was high for all species (> 76% washed hands sometimes or greater after touching the pet, its feces, or housing), although fewer reported children always washed their hands (3-57%; by species). With a few exceptions, practices were not associated with the presence of higher risk members in the household or recall of having previously received zoonotic disease education. Conclusions The results suggest there is a need for education on zoonotic disease prevention practices for pet-owning households with individuals at higher risk of infection and those with high-risk species (e.g., reptiles). Further research is needed to determine the role of education in altering higher risk pet practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason W Stull
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G2W1 Canada.
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