1
|
Khademi P, Tukmechi A, Ownagh A. Molecular detection and phylogeny analysis of Coxiella burnetii detected from cattle and buffalo milk based on plasmid cbhE gene in West Azerbaijan of Iran. New Microbes New Infect 2024; 62:101495. [PMID: 39497916 PMCID: PMC11533604 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2024.101495] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 10/01/2024] [Indexed: 11/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Humans and animals may get Q fever, which is caused by the Gram-negative coccobacillus Coxiella burnetii. The symptoms of Q fever may include a self-limiting febrile illness, pneumonia, endocarditis, or hepatitis. Infections are classified as either acute or persistent. Cattle, sheep, and goats are the most prevalent reservoir animals for this zoonosis. This research was conducted to identify C. burnetii using transposable and isocitrate dehydrogenase genes (IS1111, icd) and QpH1 plasmids. A total of 142 samples of raw buffalo and cow milk were collected from various locations within the West Azerbaijan region (see map). We used "nested" PCR techniques using primers based on the IS1111 and icd genes of C. burnetii, as well as conserved and variable portions of plasmid sequences, to identify C. burnetii and their plasmids in milk samples from buffalo and calves. Out of 142 milk samples that were positive for the chromosomal transposable genes (IS1111 and icd) at a rate of 16.9 percent (95 percent CI: 14.5 percent to 19.6 percent) and 7.1 % (95 percent CI: 5.59 percent to 9.08 percent), respectively, 86 samples were positive for the QpH1 plasmid at a rate of 60.5 percent (95 percent CI: 52.35 percent to 68.2 percent). Based on a phylogenetic study of the icd and QpH1 genes, the majority of the isolates had a similarity of 99.45-99.9 percent. Conclusion: It was determined that the buffalo population in West Azerbaijan province represents a significant epidemiological factor with respect to Q fever and consequently public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peyman Khademi
- Postdoc, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Daneshgah Blvd, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran
| | - Amir Tukmechi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Daneshgah Blvd, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran
| | - Abdulghaffar Ownagh
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Daneshgah Blvd, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Miller HK, Priestley RA, Smith CB, Cherry C, Kersh GJ. Longitudinal surveillance of Coxiella burnetii following an abortion storm in domestic goats. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1426573. [PMID: 39346957 PMCID: PMC11427434 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1426573] [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: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Q fever is a disease caused by Coxiella burnetii, which can cause serious illness in humans and abortions in goats. A Q fever outbreak among an unvaccinated goat herd led to a 65% loss of the kid crop in spring 2018. To assess the impact of the outbreak on the herd and environment, longitudinal surveillance of the ranch was conducted across three samplings in September 2018, April 2019, and May 2022. Antibodies against C. burnetii were monitored by an indirect immunofluorescence assay. Shedding was monitored through analysis of vaginal/fecal swabs and milk. Environmental swabs and bulk soil were collected from various locations around the ranch. Animal and environmental samples were analyzed for C. burnetii DNA by PCR. Herd-level seroprevalence decreased from 89% in 2018 to 84.3% in 2019, and 64.5% in 2022. Overall herd shedding was 14.4% in 2018, 7.4% in 2019, and 6.7% in 2022. The percentage of C. burnetii-positive environmental samples was 83.7% in 2018, 51.7% in 2019, and 28.6% in 2022. Serological evidence suggests that new infections were occurring in the herd 4 years post-abortion storm. This study demonstrates the presence of C. burnetii shedding and environmental contamination in a goat operation at least four kidding seasons after an outbreak. A better understanding of management practices that can improve outcomes for infected herds, particularly in areas without access to vaccines against C. burnetii, is needed to better protect operators and the public.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Halie K Miller
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Rachael A Priestley
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Cody B Smith
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Cara Cherry
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Gilbert J Kersh
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gisbert P, Hurtado A, Guatteo R. Efficacy and Safety of an Inactivated Phase I Coxiella burnetii Vaccine to Control Q Fever in Ruminants: A Systematic Review. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1484. [PMID: 38791700 PMCID: PMC11117324 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101484] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Q fever is a disease caused by Coxiella burnetii that affects many animal species and humans. In ruminants, the disease is responsible for several reproductive disorders (such as abortions, stillbirths, premature births, weak offspring, retained foetal membranes and infertility). An inactivated vaccine based on a phase I antigen of C. burnetii is available for cattle, goats and sheep. This review aims to summarise the scientific literature regarding the efficacy and safety of this vaccine to control the infection in these three domestic ruminant species. Forty-five publications and one experimental veterinary thesis reporting on experimental studies, case reports, mathematical modelling and intervention studies were selected according to the PRISMA guidelines. Although some studies lack control groups or statistical analyses, for all three species, published data show that vaccination often results in a reduction in abortions and an improvement in reproductive performance in comparison with absence of vaccination. There is also evidence, including in infected herds and animals, that vaccination is associated with a reduction in bacterial shedding, both in intensity and duration in comparison with absence of vaccination. For these reasons, in case of human outbreaks, vaccination is one of the pillars of control measures. Vaccination is generally well tolerated, despite the rare occurrence of mild, transient side-effects, such as hyperthermia and reduction in milk yield.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Hurtado
- Animal Health Department, NEIKER—Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Science and Technology Park 812L, 48160 Derio, Spain;
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mandel CG, Sanchez SE, Monahan CC, Phuklia W, Omsland A. Metabolism and physiology of pathogenic bacterial obligate intracellular parasites. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1284701. [PMID: 38585652 PMCID: PMC10995303 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1284701] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial obligate intracellular parasites (BOIPs) represent an exclusive group of bacterial pathogens that all depend on invasion of a eukaryotic host cell to reproduce. BOIPs are characterized by extensive adaptation to their respective replication niches, regardless of whether they replicate within the host cell cytoplasm or within specialized replication vacuoles. Genome reduction is also a hallmark of BOIPs that likely reflects streamlining of metabolic processes to reduce the need for de novo biosynthesis of energetically costly metabolic intermediates. Despite shared characteristics in lifestyle, BOIPs show considerable diversity in nutrient requirements, metabolic capabilities, and general physiology. In this review, we compare metabolic and physiological processes of prominent pathogenic BOIPs with special emphasis on carbon, energy, and amino acid metabolism. Recent advances are discussed in the context of historical views and opportunities for discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron G. Mandel
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Savannah E. Sanchez
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Colleen C. Monahan
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Weerawat Phuklia
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
- Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit, Microbiology Laboratory, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
| | - Anders Omsland
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zendoia II, Barandika JF, Cevidanes A, Hurtado A, García-Pérez AL. Coxiella burnetii infection persistence in a goat herd during seven kidding seasons after an outbreak of abortions: the effect of vaccination. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0220123. [PMID: 38412030 PMCID: PMC10952520 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02201-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii infection was monitored during seven kidding seasons (2017-2023) in a dairy goat herd that after an outbreak of Q fever abortions was vaccinated with an inactivated phase I vaccine. Due to the high infection rate just after the outbreak, only the replacement stock was vaccinated during the first three kidding seasons, and when the average herd immunity had decreased (fourth kidding season onwards), the whole herd was vaccinated. Vaginal swabs, feces, and milk were analyzed by PCR to monitor infection, and dust and aerosols were analyzed to measure C. burnetii environmental contamination. One year after the onset of the outbreak, a significant reduction in C. burnetii shedding loads was observed, but the percentage of shedding animals remained high until the third kidding season. By the seventh kidding season, no shedders were detected. The bacterial load excreted was significantly lower in vaccinated compared with unvaccinated animals, and in yearlings compared with multiparous. C. burnetii was detected by PCR in aerosols collected inside the animal premises throughout the study period except in the last season; whereas, aerosols collected outdoors tested negative in the last three kidding seasons. Viable C. burnetii was detectable in environmental dust collected inside the barn until the third kidding season following the outbreak. These results indicate that after an outbreak of Q fever, the risk of infection for humans and susceptible animals can remain high for at least three kidding seasons when the number of C. burnetii animal shedders is still high, even when bacterial excretion is low. IMPORTANCE Q fever is a zoonosis distributed worldwide. Ruminants are the main reservoir, and infection can cause high rates of abortion. After entering a farm, Coxiella burnetii infection can persist in the animal population over several lambing/kidding periods. Once infection is established in a herd, vaccination with the inactivated Phase I vaccine significantly reduces bacterial shedding, but although at low levels, excretion may continue to occur for several lambing/kidding seasons. The time that C. burnetii remains viable in the farm environment after an outbreak of Q fever determines the period when risk of infection is high for the people in close contact. This work showed that this period extends at least three kidding seasons after the outbreak. These results provided valuable information on the epidemiology of C. burnetii infection in goat herds and may help to develop guidelines for controlling the disease and reducing infection risk for susceptible people and animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ion I. Zendoia
- Department of Animal Health, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Jesús F. Barandika
- Department of Animal Health, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Aitor Cevidanes
- Department of Animal Health, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Ana Hurtado
- Department of Animal Health, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Ana L. García-Pérez
- Department of Animal Health, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Welch JL, Branan M, Urie N, Shrestha R, Wiedenheft A, Marshall K, Robbe-Austerman S, Shanmuganatham KK. Coxiella burnetii seroprevalence in domestic goat does in the United States: Prevalence, distribution, and associated risk factors. Prev Vet Med 2024; 223:106114. [PMID: 38198901 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106114] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Infection with the bacterium Coxiella burnetii can cause coxiellosis in animals and Q fever in humans. Coxiellosis a consistently underreported infectious disease. The infection can result in reproductive consequences for humans and animals. Ruminants are a reservoir for infection and humans are generally infected via aerosolized secretions, making it a public health concern. Studies of ruminant seroprevalence are generally limited in size and scope. This study determined seroprevalence in a large-scale U.S. population of female goats using serum samples from 7736 does from 24 states. This study identified C. burnetii seroprevalence in the United States domestic goat population. Overall, 14.5 % (SE = 2.3) of does were seropositive and 21.0 % (SE = 2.4) of operations had at least 1 seropositive doe. Further, operation demographics and herd management practices associated with seropositivity were as follows: the suspected or confirmed presence of caprine arthritis encephalitis (CAE), caseous lymphadenitis (CL), Johne's disease, or sore mouth in the herd in the previous 3 years, not cleaning or disinfecting the kidding areas or removing aborting does from other does, allowing visitors to access the kidding areas, and a lower percentage of adult goat inventory that were adult bucks or wethers. Furthermore, goat breed was associated with seropositivity. These data show C. burnetii seroprevalence in the United States and identify operation and animal characteristics and management practices associated with C. burnetii seropositivity. Together, this information can be used to help limit animal transmission, inform public health measures, and help educate and protect individuals working with goats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Welch
- Method Development and Scientific Support, National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Matthew Branan
- National Animal Health Monitoring System, Veterinary Services, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Natalie Urie
- National Animal Health Monitoring System, Veterinary Services, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
| | - Ram Shrestha
- Method Development and Scientific Support, National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Alyson Wiedenheft
- National Animal Health Monitoring System, Veterinary Services, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Fort Collins, CO, USA; Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Katherine Marshall
- National Animal Health Monitoring System, Veterinary Services, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Suelee Robbe-Austerman
- Method Development and Scientific Support, National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Karthik K Shanmuganatham
- Method Development and Scientific Support, National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Ames, IA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Trachsel C, Hirsbrunner G, Herms TL, Runge M, Kiene F, Ganter M, Zanolari P, Bauer BU. Two Years after Coxiella burnetii Detection: Pathogen Shedding and Phase-Specific Antibody Response in Three Dairy Goat Herds. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3048. [PMID: 37835654 PMCID: PMC10571745 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The infection dynamics of Coxiella (C.) burnetii were investigated in three dairy goat herds (A, B, and C) 2 years after the first pathogen detection. A total of 28 and 29 goats from herds A and B, and 35 goats from herd C, were examined. Sera were analyzed on three sampling dates using phase-specific serology. Pathogen shedding was assessed using post-partum vaginal swabs and monthly bulk tank milk (BTM) samples. Dust samples from a barn and milking parlor were also collected monthly. These samples were analyzed with PCR (target IS1111). In herd A, individual animals tested seropositive, while vaginal swabs, BTM, and most dust samples tested negative. Herds B and C exhibited high IgG phase I activity, indicating a past infection. In herd B, approximately two-thirds of the goats shed C. burnetii with vaginal mucus, and irregular positive results were obtained from BTM. Herd C had two positive goats based on vaginal swabs, and BTM tested positive once. Dust samples from herds B and C contained C. burnetii DNA, with higher quantities typically found in samples from the milking parlor. This study highlights the different infection dynamics in three unvaccinated dairy goat herds and the potential use of dust samples as a supportive tool to detect C. burnetii at the herd level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christa Trachsel
- Clinic for Ruminants, Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (C.T.); (G.H.)
| | - Gaby Hirsbrunner
- Clinic for Ruminants, Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (C.T.); (G.H.)
| | - T. Louise Herms
- Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (LAVES), Food and Veterinary Institute Braunschweig/Hannover, Eintrachtweg 17, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (T.L.H.); (M.R.)
| | - Martin Runge
- Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (LAVES), Food and Veterinary Institute Braunschweig/Hannover, Eintrachtweg 17, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (T.L.H.); (M.R.)
| | - Frederik Kiene
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (F.K.); (M.G.); (B.U.B.)
| | - Martin Ganter
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (F.K.); (M.G.); (B.U.B.)
| | - Patrik Zanolari
- Clinic for Ruminants, Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (C.T.); (G.H.)
| | - Benjamin U. Bauer
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (F.K.); (M.G.); (B.U.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Riffaud CM, Rucks EA, Ouellette SP. Persistence of obligate intracellular pathogens: alternative strategies to overcome host-specific stresses. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1185571. [PMID: 37284502 PMCID: PMC10239878 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1185571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In adapting to the intracellular niche, obligate intracellular bacteria usually undergo a reduction of genome size by eliminating genes not needed for intracellular survival. These losses can include, for example, genes involved in nutrient anabolic pathways or in stress response. Living inside a host cell offers a stable environment where intracellular bacteria can limit their exposure to extracellular effectors of the immune system and modulate or outright inhibit intracellular defense mechanisms. However, highlighting an area of vulnerability, these pathogens are dependent on the host cell for nutrients and are very sensitive to conditions that limit nutrient availability. Persistence is a common response shared by evolutionarily divergent bacteria to survive adverse conditions like nutrient deprivation. Development of persistence usually compromises successful antibiotic therapy of bacterial infections and is associated with chronic infections and long-term sequelae for the patients. During persistence, obligate intracellular pathogens are viable but not growing inside their host cell. They can survive for a long period of time such that, when the inducing stress is removed, reactivation of their growth cycles resumes. Given their reduced coding capacity, intracellular bacteria have adapted different response mechanisms. This review gives an overview of the strategies used by the obligate intracellular bacteria, where known, which, unlike model organisms such as E. coli, often lack toxin-antitoxin systems and the stringent response that have been linked to a persister phenotype and amino acid starvation states, respectively.
Collapse
|
9
|
Holloway P, Gibson M, Nash S, Holloway T, Cardwell J, Al Omari B, Abu‐Basha E, Mangtani P, Guitian J. A cross-sectional study of Q fever in Camels: Risk factors for infection, the role of small ruminants and public health implications for desert-dwelling pastoral communities. Zoonoses Public Health 2023; 70:238-247. [PMID: 36601879 PMCID: PMC10952281 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Q fever represents an important 'neglected zoonosis', with high prevalences recorded across the Middle East region. Among rural desert-dwelling communities in the region, camel milk is largely consumed raw, due to perceptions of dromedaries as a uniquely clean livestock species mentioned in the Qur'an and Islamic hadith, while milk from other livestock species is usually boiled. As a result, camels present a unique public health threat among such communities from milk-borne pathogens, including Coxiella burnetii. In view of this, a cross-sectional study was conducted among dromedary herds in southern Jordan between September 2017 and October 2018, including 404 camels from 121 randomly selected herds. In addition, 510 household members associated with these herds were interviewed regarding potential high-risk practices for zoonotic transmission. Weight adjusted camel population seroprevalence for C. burnetii was 49.6% (95% CI: 44.7-54.5), with evidence of maternally derived immunity in calves ≤6 months old. Adjusted herd-level prevalence was 76.0% (95% CI 72.7-80.2). It was estimated 30.4% (144/477) of individuals consumed raw milk from infected herds monthly or more. Following multivariable logistic regression analysis, seropositive status in camels was found to be associated with increasing age, high herd tick burdens, keeping the herd together throughout the year including when calving, and owning larger (>50) sheep and goat flocks, with goats presenting a higher risk than sheep. Racing camel status was found to be protective. Socioculturally appropriate interventions aimed at raising awareness of potential risks associated with drinking raw camel milk, alongside appropriate livestock management interventions, should be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stephen Nash
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | | | | | - Bilal Al Omari
- Jordan University of Science and TechnologyAr‐RamthaJordan
| | - Ehab Abu‐Basha
- Jordan University of Science and TechnologyAr‐RamthaJordan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pires H, Cardoso L, Lopes AP, Fontes MDC, Matos M, Pintado C, Figueira L, Mesquita JR, Matos AC, Coelho AC. Seropositivity for Coxiella burnetii in Wild Boar ( Sus scrofa) and Red Deer ( Cervus elaphus) in Portugal. Pathogens 2023; 12:421. [PMID: 36986343 PMCID: PMC10057195 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Q fever is caused by the pathogen Coxiella burnetii and is a zoonosis that naturally infects goats, sheep, and cats, but can also infect humans, birds, reptiles, or arthropods. A survey was conducted for the detection of antibodies against C. burnetii in a sample of 617 free-ranging wild ruminants, 358 wild boar (Sus scrofa) and 259 red deer (Cervus elaphus), in east-central Portugal during the 2016-2022 hunting seasons. Only adult animals were sampled in this study. Antibodies specific to C. burnetii were detected using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; IDVet®, Montpellier, France) according to the manufacturer's instructions. The seroprevalence of C. burnetii infection was 1.5% (n = 9; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.7-2.8%). Antibodies against C. burnetii were detected in 4/358 wild boar (1.1%; 95% CI: CI: 0.3-2.8%) and 5/259 red deer (1.9%; 0.6-4.5%). Results of the present study indicate that antibodies against C. burnetii were present in wild boar and red deer in Portugal. These findings can help local health authorities to focus on the problem of C. burnetii in wildlife and facilitate the application of a One Health approach to its prevention and control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Humberto Pires
- Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, 5200-130 Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801556 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ana Patrícia Lopes
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801556 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Maria da Conceição Fontes
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801556 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Manuela Matos
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), UTAD, 5000-556 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Cristina Pintado
- Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, 5200-130 Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | - Luís Figueira
- Research Center for Natural Resources, Environment and Society, Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, 5200-130 Castelo Branco, Portugal
- Researcher at Q-RURAL—Quality of Life in the Rural World, Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, 5200-130 Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | - João Rodrigo Mesquita
- ICBAS—School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Porto University, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- Epidemiology Research Unit (EPIUnit), Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Cristina Matos
- Research Center for Natural Resources, Environment and Society, Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, 5200-130 Castelo Branco, Portugal
- Researcher at Q-RURAL—Quality of Life in the Rural World, Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, 5200-130 Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | - Ana Cláudia Coelho
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801556 Vila Real, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Coxiella burnetii and Co-Infections with Other Major Pathogens Causing Abortion in Small Ruminant Flocks in the Iberian Peninsula. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243454. [PMID: 36552374 PMCID: PMC9774532 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii is an intracellular bacterium causing human Q fever and reproductive disorders in domestic ruminants. We analyzed the occurrence of C. burnetii and co-infections with six other major pathogens causing abortion in sheep (1242 cases) and goat (371 cases) flocks from Spain and Portugal. After real-time PCR detection, co-infections were established by principal component and cluster analysis that grouped cases based on the joint presence/absence of several microorganisms. C. burnetii and Chlamydia abortus were the most common abortifacient agents with approximately 75% of cases from both hosts testing positive, followed by Toxoplasma gondii, Campylobacter sp., Salmonella enterica, border disease virus and Neospora caninum. C. burnetii was significantly more common than C. abortus in goat abortions (p < 0.001). Co-infections with at least two pathogens were found in more than 66% cases of ovine abortions and 36% cases of caprine abortions testing positive for C. burnetii, mostly including mixed infections with only C. abortus. These findings indicate that both pathogens are the most significant ones to be readily prevented by vaccination in this geographical area. Biosecurity and biocontainment measures are also steadfastly recommended to prevent both the economic losses and public health risks associated with most of these abortifacient agents.
Collapse
|
12
|
Performance Evaluation and Validation of Air Samplers To Detect Aerosolized Coxiella burnetii. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0065522. [PMID: 36073825 PMCID: PMC9602806 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00655-22] [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] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii, the etiological agent of Q fever, is an intracellular zoonotic pathogen transmitted via the respiratory route. Once released from infected animals, C. burnetii can travel long distances through air before infecting another host. As such, the ability to detect the presence of C. burnetii in air is important. In this study, three air samplers, AirPort MD8, BioSampler, and the Coriolis Micro, were assessed against a set of predetermined criteria in the presence of three different aerosolized C. burnetii concentrations. Two liquid collection media, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and alkaline polyethylene glycol (Alk PEG), were tested with devices requiring a collection liquid. Samples were tested by quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay (qPCR) targeting the single-copy com1 gene or multicopy insertion element IS1111. All air samplers performed well at detecting airborne C. burnetii across the range of concentrations tested. At high nebulized concentrations, AirPort MD8 showed higher, but variable, recovery probabilities. While the BioSampler and Coriolis Micro recovered C. burnetii at lower concentrations, the replicates were far more repeatable. At low and intermediate nebulized concentrations, results were comparable in the trials between air samplers, although the AirPort MD8 had consistently higher recovery probabilities. In this first study validating air samplers for their ability to detect aerosolized C. burnetii, we found that while all samplers performed well, not all samplers were equal. It is important that these results are further validated under field conditions. These findings will further inform efforts to detect airborne C. burnetii around known point sources of infection. IMPORTANCE Coxiella burnetii causes Q fever in humans and coxiellosis in animals. It is important to know if C. burnetii is present in the air around putative sources as it is transmitted via inhalation. This study assessed air samplers (AirPort MD8, BioSampler, and Coriolis Micro) for their efficacy in detecting C. burnetii. Our results show that all three devices could detect aerosolized bacteria effectively; however, at high concentrations the AirPort performed better than the other two devices, showing higher percent recovery. At intermediate and low concentrations AirPort detected at a level higher than or similar to that of other samplers. Quantification of samples was hindered by the limit of quantitation of the qPCR assay. Compared with the other two devices, the AirPort was easier to handle and clean in the field. Testing air around likely sources (e.g., farms, abattoirs, and livestock saleyards) using validated sampling devices will help better estimate the risk of Q fever to nearby communities.
Collapse
|
13
|
Hou KW, Wiethoelter AK, Stevenson MA, Soares Magalhaes RJ, Lignereux L, Caraguel C, Stenos J, Vincent G, Aleri JW, Firestone SM. A cross-sectional survey of risk factors for the presence of Coxiella burnetii in Australian commercial dairy goat farms. Aust Vet J 2022; 100:296-305. [PMID: 35582949 PMCID: PMC9543512 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13163] [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: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The largest Australian farm‐based outbreak of Q fever originated from a dairy goat herd. We surveyed commercial dairy goat farms across Australia by testing bulk tank milk (BTM) samples using a commercial indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and two quantitative polymerase chain reactions (PCRs). Of the 66 commercial dairy goat herds on record, managers from 61 herds were contacted and 49 provided BTM samples. Five of the surveyed herds were positive on at least one of the diagnostic tests, thus herd‐level apparent prevalence was 10% (95% confidence interval [CI] 4 to 22). True prevalence was estimated to be 3% (95% credible interval: 0 to 18). Herd managers completed a questionnaire on herd management, biosecurity and hygiene practices and risk factors were investigated using multivariable logistic regression. Herds with >900 milking does (the upper quartile) were more likely to be Coxiella burnetii positive (odds ratio = 6.75; 95% CI 1.65 to 27.7) compared with farms with ≤900 milking does. The odds of BTM positivity increased by a factor of 2.53 (95% CI 1.51 to 4.22) for each order of magnitude increase in the number of goats per acre. C. burnetii was not detected in samples from the majority of the Australian dairy goat herds suggesting there is an opportunity to protect the industry and contain this disease with strengthened biosecurity practices. Intensification appeared associated with an increased risk of positivity. Further investigation is required to discriminate the practices associated with an increased risk of introduction to disease‐free herds, from practices associated with maintenance of C. burnetii infection in infected dairy goat herds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K W Hou
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - A K Wiethoelter
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - M A Stevenson
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - R J Soares Magalhaes
- UQ Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, 4343, Australia
| | - L Lignereux
- School of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Roseworthy Campus, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, 5371, Australia
| | - C Caraguel
- School of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Roseworthy Campus, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, 5371, Australia
| | - J Stenos
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, 3220, Australia
| | - G Vincent
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, 3220, Australia
| | - J W Aleri
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia.,Centre for Animal Production and Health, Future Foods Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - S M Firestone
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Surveillance of Coxiella burnetii Shedding in Three Naturally Infected Dairy Goat Herds after Vaccination, Focusing on Bulk Tank Milk and Dust Swabs. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9030102. [PMID: 35324830 PMCID: PMC8950187 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9030102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Q fever outbreaks on three dairy goat farms (A–C) were monitored after the animals had been vaccinated with an inactivated Coxiella burnetii phase I vaccine. The antibody response was measured before vaccination by serum samples with two C. burnetii phase-specific ELISAs to characterize the disease status. Shedding was determined by vaginal swabs during three kidding seasons and monthly bulk tank milk (BTM) samples. Dust swabs from one windowsill of each barn and from the milking parlors were collected monthly to evaluate the indoor exposure. These samples were analyzed by qPCR. The phase-specific serology revealed an acute Q fever infection in herd A, whereas herds B and C had an ongoing and past infection, respectively. In all three herds, vaginal shedders were present during three kidding seasons. In total, 50%, 69%, and 15% of all collected BTM samples were C. burnetii positive in herds A, B, and C, respectively. Barn dust contained C. burnetii DNA in 71%, 45%, and 50% of examined swabs collected from farms A, B, and C, respectively. The largest number of C. burnetii positive samples was obtained from the milking parlor (A: 91%, B: 72%, C: 73%), indicating a high risk for humans to acquire Q fever during milking activity.
Collapse
|
15
|
Jodełko A, Szymańska-Czerwińska M, Rola JG, Niemczuk K. Molecular detection of Coxiella burnetii in small ruminants and genotyping of specimens collected from goats in Poland. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:341. [PMID: 34711239 PMCID: PMC8554849 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03051-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Coxiella burnetii is the etiological agent of Q fever, a zoonosis affecting many animal species including sheep and goats. The aims of this study were to evaluate the shedding of Coxiella burnetii in small ruminant herds and to identify the pathogen’s genotypes and sequence types (STs) using multiple-locus variable number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) and multispacer sequence typing (MST) methods. Results Overall, 165 samples from 43 herds of goats and 9 flocks of sheep were collected including bulk tank milk (BTM), individual milk samples, vaginal swabs, tissue sections from stillborn kids, feces and placentas. These were tested by real-time PCR targeting the IS1111 element. C. burnetii infection was confirmed in 51.16% of the herds of goats and 22.2% of the flocks of sheep. Six out of nine samples originating from goats were successfully genotyped using the MLVA method. The presence was confirmed of two widely distributed MLVA genotypes (I and J) and genotype PL1 previously reported only in cattle. Only one sequence type (ST61) was identified; however, the majority of specimens represented partial STs and some of them may belong to ST61. Other partial STs could possibly be ST74. Conclusion This study confirmed the relatively common occurrence of Coxiella burnetii in small ruminant herds in Poland. Interestingly, all genotyped samples represent cattle-associated MLVA genotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Jodełko
- Department of Cattle and Sheep Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, Pulawy, Poland.
| | | | - Jolanta Grażyna Rola
- Department of Hygiene of Food of Animal Origin, National Veterinary Research Institute, Pulawy, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Niemczuk
- Department of Cattle and Sheep Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, Pulawy, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abeykoon AMH, Clark NJ, Soares Magalhaes RJ, Vincent GA, Stevenson MA, Firestone SM, Wiethoelter AK. Coxiella burnetii in the environment: A systematic review and critical appraisal of sampling methods. Zoonoses Public Health 2020; 68:165-181. [PMID: 33314733 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Q fever is a zoonotic disease caused by the intracellular bacterium, Coxiella burnetii. Its primary mode of transmission is by inhalation of aerosols originating from infected animals and contaminated environments. The organism has a very low infective dose, can persist in the environment for long periods of time and large outbreaks fuelled by windborne spread have been previously reported. Detection of C. burnetii in the environment is therefore important during human and animal outbreak investigations and for the control and prevention of Q fever. This study aimed to systematically review and critically appraise the published literature on sampling methods used to detect C. burnetii from different environmental samples. A search of four electronic databases with subsequent hand searching identified 47 eligible articles published since 1935. These articles described sampling of dust, air, soil and liquids in attempts to detect C. burnetii during 19 Q fever outbreaks and in 28 endemic settings. Environmental positivity was most commonly associated with ruminant livestock populations. Evidence describing spatio-temporal characteristics and associated geographical dispersion gradients was limited. The most commonly tested sample type was dust which also yielded the highest bacterial loads of >108 bacteria/cloth. The MD8 (Sartorius) air sampler was used widely for air sampling. Soil was the only sample type for which a validated laboratory protocol was established specifically for C. burnetii. Each environmental sample type has its advantages and limitations which are discussed in detail and a simplified framework to guide decisions around environmental sampling for C. burnetii is provided. In any type of environmental sampling, it is recommended to use standardized and validated methods and to match the most ideal sampling strategy and timing with the research context. These conditions are essential to be considered when designing future Q fever management plans that involve environmental sampling for C. burnetii.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Hasanthi Abeykoon
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Nicholas Joshua Clark
- UQ Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Ricardo Jorge Soares Magalhaes
- UQ Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia.,Children's Health and Environment Program, UQ Children's Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Gemma Anne Vincent
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark Anthony Stevenson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Simon Matthew Firestone
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Anke Katrin Wiethoelter
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Conan A, Becker AAMJ, Alava V, Chapwanya A, Carter J, Roman K, Avsaroglu H, Gallagher CA. Detection of Coxiella burnetii antibodies in sheep and cattle on a veterinary campus in St. Kitts: Implications for one health in the Caribbean region. One Health 2020; 10:100163. [PMID: 33117877 PMCID: PMC7582200 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2020.100163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii is a ubiquitous zoonotic bacterium reported worldwide that causes Q-fever. Infections result in profound economic losses to livestock producers by causing abortions and low birth weights. Current information about the disease in the Caribbean region is scarce. With multiple small islands and territories, it is often considered that the bacterium is absent or circulates at a low prevalence. Our study aimed to determine whether sheep and cattle housed at a veterinary campus in St Kitts had previous exposure to C. burnetii. Blood samples were taken from cattle (n = 63; 72% of the herd) and sheep (n = 133; 71% of the flock). Antibodies to C. burnetii were detected by a commercial indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (IDvet® ELISA) test. The seroprevalence was estimated at 26.3% (95% CI: 19.1–34.7%) in sheep and 0% (95% CI: 0–5.7%) in cattle. Sheep importation to St. Kitts is very rare, thus, these results suggest that C. burnetii is present on the island. The seronegativity of all the cattle highlights the absence of the bacterium on the veterinary campus. The high seroprevalence in sheep, however, has potentially important implications for animal health and public health as well as for wildlife conservation. Further investigation about animal seroprevalence and human exposure are warranted in St. Kitts and in the Caribbean region. Seroprevalence in sheep from a veterinary university was 26.3% No cattle from the university were seropositive Risk for human and animal health is likely to be important in St. Kitts There is a need to investigate the prevalence of Coxiella burnetii in Caribbean region
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Conan
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis.,Center for One Health Research and Policy Advice, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR, PR China
| | - Anne A M J Becker
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Viviana Alava
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Aspinas Chapwanya
- Center for Integrative Mammalian Research, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Julia Carter
- Department of Animal Resources, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Kurt Roman
- Department of Animal Resources, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Harutyun Avsaroglu
- Department of Animal Resources, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Christa A Gallagher
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wood C, Muleme M, Tan T, Bosward K, Gibson J, Alawneh J, McGowan M, Barnes TS, Stenos J, Perkins N, Firestone SM, Tozer S. Validation of an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) for the detection of IgG antibodies against Coxiella burnetii in bovine serum. Prev Vet Med 2019; 169:104698. [PMID: 31311644 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2019.104698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
There is limited knowledge of the true prevalence and distribution of coxiellosis in dairy and beef cattle populations in Australia. For this to occur, apparent prevalence estimates need to be reliably adjusted, accounting for diagnostic sensitivity (DSe) and diagnostic specificity (DSp) of the test used. However, there are few tests available with known diagnostic specifications suitable to inform screening and surveillance activities in the Australian context. We initially modified and optimised a human indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) test for the detection of IgG antibodies against phase I and/or phase II Coxiella burnetii in bovine sera and determined an optimal screening dilution cut-off to be 1:160. Direct comparison of the modified IFA with the commercial IDEXX enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit (Q Fever Ab Test IDEXX Laboratories, United States of America) was performed by testing 458 serum samples from four distinct cattle populations across the east coast of Australia and New Zealand. Cross classified test results were then analysed using Bayesian latent class modelling, to validate the tests in the absence of a gold standard reference test. Results from this analysis indicate that the IFA, at a 1:160 serum dilution, has an estimated DSe of 73.6% (95% Credible Interval (CrI) 61.1, 85.9) and DSp of 98.2% (95% CrI 95.1, 99.7). The commercial IDEXX ELISA kit was found to have a higher DSe of 87.9% (95% CrI 73.9, 96.4) and similar DSp of 97.7% (95% CrI 93.2, 99.7). Evaluation of the diagnostic performance of the IFA and ELISA methods, specifically for use in cattle will enable more accurate interpretation of prevalence estimates of C. burnetii exposure to be reported for cattle in Australia and other countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Wood
- The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science, Gatton, Queensland, 4343, Australia; Centre for Children's Health Research, Queensland Paediatric Infectious Disease Laboratory, Lady Cilento Research Precinct, South Brisbane, Queensland, 4101, Australia.
| | - Michael Muleme
- The University of Melbourne, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Tabita Tan
- The University of Melbourne, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Katrina Bosward
- The University of Sydney, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, Camden, NSW, 2570, Australia
| | - Justine Gibson
- The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science, Gatton, Queensland, 4343, Australia
| | - John Alawneh
- The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science, Gatton, Queensland, 4343, Australia
| | - Michael McGowan
- The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science, Gatton, Queensland, 4343, Australia
| | - Tamsin S Barnes
- The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science, Gatton, Queensland, 4343, Australia; The University of Queensland, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, Gatton, Queensland, 4343, Australia
| | - John Stenos
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, Bellarine Street, University Hospital Geelong, Victoria, 3220 Australia
| | - Nigel Perkins
- The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science, Gatton, Queensland, 4343, Australia
| | - Simon M Firestone
- The University of Melbourne, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Sarah Tozer
- Centre for Children's Health Research, Queensland Paediatric Infectious Disease Laboratory, Lady Cilento Research Precinct, South Brisbane, Queensland, 4101, Australia
| |
Collapse
|