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Furtado T, Kennedy L, Pinchbeck G, Tulloch JSP. Zoonotic infections in UK and Irish veterinary students: a cross-sectional survey. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1272. [PMID: 38724984 PMCID: PMC11084047 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18777-3] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zoonotic infections are a recognised risk for the veterinary community. Veterinary students are at risk, due to the range of activities they participate with on training coupled with their inexperience; yet the prevalence and severity of infections in veterinary students has been little studied. In this study, a survey explored zoonotic infections in UK and Irish veterinary students. METHODS A survey containing both open and closed questions, was distributed to undergraduate veterinary students at all veterinary schools in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Descriptive statistics, and univariable logistic regression were used to explore quantitative data; thematic analysis was used to explore qualitative data. RESULTS There were 467 responses, 31.5% (95% CI 27.3-35.9, n = 147) of those students reported having contracted at least one zoonotic infection during their studies. The most prevalent self-reported infections were cryptosporidiosis (15.2% of all respondents), dermatophytosis (5.6%), and other gastrointestinal infections assumed to be of zoonotic origin (4.5%). 7% of respondents reported having acquired a zoonosis within the last 12 months, 91% of these infections were acquired during farm placements. Thematic analysis (n = 34) showed that infection was an accepted risk, particularly on farm, and students were often reluctant to take time off their studies or placements as a result of infection. Reporting was very low, meaning universities would not have accurate figures on infection risk or particularly risky placement providers. CONCLUSIONS Based on these survey results, veterinary students appear to be at increased risk of contracting zoonotic diseases, particularly on farm placements. Attitude and behaviour change at multiple levels is required to reduce the risk of infection to students and normalise reporting of illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamzin Furtado
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary, and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Lois Kennedy
- School of Veterinary Science, Institute of Infection, Veterinary, and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Gina Pinchbeck
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary, and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - John S P Tulloch
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary, and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, UK.
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Jokelainen P, Virtala AMK, Raulo S, Kantele A, Vapalahti O, Kinnunen PM. Veterinarians and zoonotic pathogens, infections and diseases - questionnaire study and case series, Finland. Infect Dis (Lond) 2024; 56:384-392. [PMID: 38344824 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2024.2313662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Veterinarians are at risk for numerous zoonotic infections. In this paper, we summarise descriptions of zoonotic infections from a questionnaire study and a series of work-related zoonotic cases, aiming to add to the knowledge on occupational zoonotic risks of veterinarians. METHODS We collected data on zoonotic infections contracted by veterinarians in Finland in two studies:1) using a questionnaire in 2009, and 2) inviting veterinarians who had encountered an occupational zoonosis to report it in structured interviews in 2019. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS In the questionnaire study in 2009, of 306 veterinarians several reported zoonotic bacterial skin infections (12%), dermatophytosis (ringworm; 4.2%), virus infections (3.9%), bacterial gastroenteritis (3.3%), other bacterial zoonoses (2.3%), and parasitic infections/infestations (2.3%). In the 2019 interviews, 16 occupational zoonosis cases were reported. Of them, seven were selected to the case series. The selected cases included Capnocytophaga canimorsus sepsis following a dog bite, cryptosporidiosis after a contact with calves, cutaneous listeriosis following calving assistance, Salmonella gastroenteritis contracted at laboratory, Trichophyton dermatophytosis after equine contact, Bacillus anthracis exposure at necropsy, and exposure to rabies through a horse bite. In four of the seven cases, the veterinarian disagreed or strongly disagreed with having had good knowledge of the zoonosis before the incident. The results from the questionnaire study and the case series illustrate the variety of zoonotic pathogens that veterinarians may encounter. There is a need to improve the occupational health of veterinarians and to increase awareness in the occupational health sector. We encourage addressing this need using a One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pikka Jokelainen
- Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Saara Raulo
- Zoonosis Centre, Finnish Food Authority, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anu Kantele
- Meilahti Infectious Diseases and Vaccine Research Center MeIVac, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Vapalahti
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Paula M Kinnunen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Toledo-Perona R, Contreras A, Gomis J, Quereda JJ, García-Galán A, Sánchez A, Gómez-Martín Á. Controlling Coxiella burnetii in naturally infected sheep, goats and cows, and public health implications: a scoping review. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1321553. [PMID: 38425838 PMCID: PMC10901991 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1321553] [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: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Q fever is a worldwide zoonotic disease which domestic ruminants are the main source of infection for humans. This scoping review summarizes the control measures currently available to reduce Coxiella burnetii (Cb) infection in naturally infected sheep, goat and cattle herds. A total of 28 articles were included in the review. A lack of methodological standardization was noted in the articles analyzed. The results indicated that long-term vaccination in cows reduces bacterial excretion in milk and environmental contamination. In small ruminants, the results of vaccination in terms of efficacy are variable. In goats, there is a reduction in bacterial excretion, unlike in sheep, where a long-term vaccination program is necessary to reduce bacterial excretion. Moreover, the high persistence of viable Cb in the environment means that control measures for sheep are needed for several years. The use of antibiotics as a control measure in cows and sheep was not found to reduce excretion. However, the combination of vaccination with antibiotic therapy appears to have positive effects in small ruminants in terms of controlling outbreaks of Q fever. Hygiene and biosecurity measures are the basic means for controlling Cb infection on ruminant farms and ensuring public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Toledo-Perona
- Microbiological Agents Associated with Animal Reproduction (ProVaginBio), Universidad CEU Cardenal Herrera, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Animal Production and Health, Veterinary Public Health and Food Science and Technology. Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Jesús Gomis
- Microbiological Agents Associated with Animal Reproduction (ProVaginBio), Universidad CEU Cardenal Herrera, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Animal Production and Health, Veterinary Public Health and Food Science and Technology. Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan José Quereda
- Department of Animal Production and Health, Veterinary Public Health and Food Science and Technology. Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
- Research Group Intracellular Pathogens: Biology and Infection, Universidad CEU Cardenal Herrera, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana García-Galán
- Department of Animal Health, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio Sánchez
- Department of Animal Health, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Ángel Gómez-Martín
- Microbiological Agents Associated with Animal Reproduction (ProVaginBio), Universidad CEU Cardenal Herrera, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Animal Production and Health, Veterinary Public Health and Food Science and Technology. Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
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Saegerman C, Parisi G, Niemi J, Humblet MF, Ron-Román J, Souley Kouato B, Allepuz A, Porphyre V, Rodrigues da Costa M, Renault V. Evaluation Survey on Agreement with Existing Definitions of Biosecurity with a Focus on Livestock. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091518. [PMID: 37174555 PMCID: PMC10177301 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091518] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Disease prevention, including biosecurity, surveillance, and traceability are key aspects to minimize the risk of animal diseases causing harm to society. Diseases for which biosecurity are needed depend on species of interest, e.g., African swine fever, avian influenza, or foot-and-mouth disease. However, several definitions of biosecurity co-exist in the literature. Under the new COST Action "Biosecurity Enhanced Through Training Evaluation and Raising Awareness" (BETTER) CA20103, we launched an initial survey on the agreement with eight existing definitions of (livestock) biosecurity, to rank keywords to consider before attempting a more consolidated definition, and to select the desirable qualities of a definition of livestock biosecurity. Respondents (N = 316) had a male-female gender ratio close to one, were mostly between 25 and 54 years old, and had animal health as the main field of expertise (30% were government officials). The significant most popular biosecurity definition was the one that conceptualized the rules of 5B's (bio-exclusion, bio-containment, bio-compartmentation, bio-prevention, and bio-preservation). The top two keywords to consider for the consolidation of the biosecurity definition were "prevention" and "measures". The optimal biosecurity definition needs to be operational and related to animal health but also comprehensible, simple, and related to public health. The survey results highlight the need for the integration of more aspects in the existing definitions of livestock biosecurity (prevention of zoonoses and preservation of the environment and diversity).
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit in Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULiege), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal Health (FARAH) Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, 4000 Liege, Belgium
- Unit of Faculty Biosecurity, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Liege University, 4000 Liege, Belgium
| | - Gianni Parisi
- Research Unit in Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULiege), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal Health (FARAH) Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, 4000 Liege, Belgium
| | - Jarkko Niemi
- Bioeconomy and Environment Unit, Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), 60320 Seinäjoki, Finland
| | - Marie-France Humblet
- Unit of Faculty Biosecurity, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Liege University, 4000 Liege, Belgium
- Biosafety and Biosecurity Unit, Department of Occupational Safety and Health, University of Liege, 4000 Liege, Belgium
| | - Jorge Ron-Román
- Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Humana (GISAH), Carrera de Ingeniería en Agropecuaria, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Sangolquí P.O. Box 171-5-231, Ecuador
| | - Bachir Souley Kouato
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique du Niger (INRAN), Niamey P.O. Box 429, Niger
| | - Alberto Allepuz
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vincent Porphyre
- CIRAD, UMR SELMET, F-34398 Montpellier, France
- CIRAD, INRAE, Institut Agro Montpellier, Université de Montpellier, SELMET, F-34398 Montpellier, France
| | - Maria Rodrigues da Costa
- Centre for Epidemiology and Planetary Health (CEPH), Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Inverness Campus, Inverness IV2 5NA, UK
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Conan A, Gallagher CA, Erskine N, Howland M, Smith-Anthony M, Marchi S, Magouras I, Müller A, Becker AA. Is there a higher risk of exposure to Coxiella burnetii for pre-clinical veterinary students? One Health 2023; 16:100485. [PMID: 36691394 PMCID: PMC9860337 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100485] [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: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii is globally distributed but evidence of zoonotic transmission in the Caribbean region is scarce. The bacterium presence is suspected on the Caribbean island of St. Kitts. The risk of exposure of veterinary students was reported in other regions of the world but is not documented in the Caribbean region. The present study aimed to evaluate the risk of exposure to C. burnetii for pre-clinical veterinary students (mostly coming from the U.S.) attending an island-based veterinary school. A cross-sectional study was conducted to compare incoming and outgoing veterinary students' seroprevalence. Serology was performed using indirect immunofluorescence assay to test Coxiella burnetii Phase I and Phase II immunoglobulins M and G. Background data were gathered using a standardized questionnaire. A parallel study enrolled veterinary school employees in the same university. Of the 98 participants (48 incoming and 50 outgoing students), 41 (41.8%, 95 %CI: 31.9-52.2) were seropositive to C. burnetii. There was no significant difference between the two groups (45.8% for incoming vs. 38.0% for outgoing students) (p = 0.4). No risk factors (demographic, animal handling practices or background) were significantly more reported in the seropositive group. In the employee study, the seroprevalence was high with 8/15 seropositives (53.3%, 95 %CI: 26.6-78.7). Pre-clinical veterinary students do not have a higher risk of exposure to C. burnetii by attending the veterinary school in St. Kitts, but they are highly exposed before arrival on the island (seroprevalence of 45.8%). Most of these participants had experience with animals either through farming or previous veterinary technician employment. This indicates a high exposure in the U.S. young population aiming to become veterinarians. There is an urgent need to increase C. burnetii surveillance in animals and humans to apply relevant prevention and control measures, including recommendations for vaccination of students and professionals at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Conan
- One Health Center for Zoonoses & Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, St. Kitts and Nevis,Centre for Applied One Health Research and Policy Advice, City University of Hong Kong, 31 To Yuen Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China,Corresponding author at: City University of Hong Kong, Room 504, Block 2, To Yuen Building, 31 To Yuen Street, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Christa A. Gallagher
- One Health Center for Zoonoses & Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Nicole Erskine
- One Health Center for Zoonoses & Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Michael Howland
- One Health Center for Zoonoses & Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Marshalette Smith-Anthony
- Student Health Services, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Silvia Marchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Ioannis Magouras
- Centre for Applied One Health Research and Policy Advice, City University of Hong Kong, 31 To Yuen Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ananda Müller
- One Health Center for Zoonoses & Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Anne A.M.J. Becker
- One Health Center for Zoonoses & Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Westfarm, PO Box 334, St. Kitts and Nevis
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Humblet MF, Saegerman C. Internal audits as a tool to assess the compliance with biosecurity rules in a veterinary faculty. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:960051. [PMID: 36937021 PMCID: PMC10018162 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.960051] [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: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The present paper proposes a tool to follow up the compliance of staff and students with biosecurity rules, as enforced in a veterinary faculty, i.e., animal clinics, teaching laboratories, dissection rooms, and educational pig herd and farm. Methods Starting from a generic list of items gathered into several categories (personal dress and equipment, animal-related items, infrastructures, waste management, management of material/equipment and behavior), a checklist was created for each sector/activity mentioned above, based on the rules and procedures compiled in the Faculty biosecurity standard operating procedures. Checklists were created as Excel™ files. For each sector, several sheets were elaborated, i.e., one per specific activity: for example, the following sheets were created for the equine clinic: class 1-2 hospitalization (class 1 = non-infectious conditions; class 2 = infectious disease with a low or non-existent risk of transmission), class 3 hospitalization (class 3 = infectious disease with a moderate risk of transmission; these patients are suspected of having an infectious disease and being contagious for other patients and/or for humans) and consultation. Results Class 4 area, which corresponds to the isolation unit and aims at housing patients suffering from infectious diseases with a significant risk of transmission (including notifiable conditions), was not audited at that period, as it was undergoing renovation works. The audit relied on observations performed by a unique observer to ensure standardization. Observed items were presented as yes/no and multiple-choice questions. A scale from 0 to 3 or 4 (depending on the item) allowed scoring each item, i.e., 0 corresponding to 100% compliance with the procedure and the highest score to the worst situation. A median and average global score was also estimated by category and by activity. Discussion The methodology described in the present paper allows estimating the compliance with biosecurity standard operating procedures in a specific sector and/or for a given activity. The identification of criteria needing improvement is a key point: it helps prioritizing actions to be implemented and awareness raising among people concerned. Regular internal auditing is an essential part of a biosecurity plan, the frequency being conditioned by the risk linked to a specific activity or area (i.e., more frequent audits in risky situations).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-France Humblet
- Unit Biosafety, Biosecurity and Environmental Licenses, Department for Occupational Protection and Hygiene, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Veterinary Science Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Research Unit (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animals and Health Center (FARAH), Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Claude Saegerman
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Kinnunen PM, Matomäki A, Verkola M, Heikinheimo A, Vapalahti O, Kallio-kokko H, Virtala AM, Jokelainen P. Veterinarians as a Risk Group for Zoonoses: Exposure, Knowledge and Protective Practices in Finland. Saf Health Work 2021; 13:78-85. [PMID: 35936209 PMCID: PMC9346934 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2021.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Veterinarians may encounter a variety of zoonotic pathogens in their work. Methods We conducted two cross-sectional questionnaire studies among veterinarians in Finland. Participants were recruited during two Annual Veterinary Congresses. In 2009, 306 veterinarians participated in an extensive questionnaire study, and in 2016, 262 veterinarians participated in a more focused study that included two same questions. Results In 2009, the majority (90.9%) of the participating veterinarians reported having been occupationally exposed to zoonotic pathogens. Zoonotic infections (15.0%), needle stick incidents (78.8%), bites (85.0%), as well as infected skin lesions (24.2%) were reported. In 2009, 8.2% of the participants fully agreed with the statement “I have good knowledge of zoonoses and their prevention”; in 2016, the proportion was 10.3%. The reported use of protective practices and personal protective equipment in connection with specific veterinary procedures indicated that there was room for improvement, particularly in protection from pathogens that are transmissible via inhalation and mucous membranes. Conclusion The results confirm that veterinarians are commonly occupationally exposed to zoonotic pathogens. Education should aim to improve and maintain the knowledge of zoonoses and their prevention. Use of protective practices should be advocated.
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Adebowale O, Fasanmi OG, Awosile B, Afolabi M, Fasina FO. Systematic review and meta-analysis of veterinary-related occupational exposures to hazards. OPEN VETERINARY SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1515/ovs-2020-0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Understanding hazards within the veterinary profession is critical for developing strategies to ensure the health and safety of personnel in the work environment. This study was conducted to systematically review and synthesize data on reported risks within veterinary workplaces. A systematic review of published data on occupational hazards and associated risk factors were searched within three database platforms namely PubMed, Ebscohost, and Google scholar. To determine the proportion estimates of hazards and pooled odds ratio, two random-effects meta-analysis were performed. For the biological, chemical and physical hazards, the pooled proportion estimates were 17% (95% CI: 15.0-19.0, p < 0.001), 7.0% (95% CI: 6.0-9.0%, p < 0.001) and 65.0% (95% CI: 39.0-91.0%, p < 0.001) respectively. A pooled odds ratio indicated the risk of exposures to physical (OR=1.012, 95% CI: 1.008-1.017, p < 0.001) and biological hazards (OR=2.07, 95% CI: 1.70-2.52, p <0.001) increased when working or in contact with animals. The review has provided a better understanding of occupational health and safety status of veterinarians and gaps within the developing countries. This evidence calls for policy formulation and implementation to reduce the risks of exposures to all forms of occupational-related hazards in veterinary workplaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwawemimo Adebowale
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine , Federal University of Agriculture , Alabata, Abeokuta, Ogun State , Nigeria
| | - Olubunmi Gabriel Fasanmi
- Department of Veterinary Laboratory Technology , Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology , Oyo State , Nigeria
| | - Babafela Awosile
- Department of Health Information and Performances , Health PEI Charlottetown , PE Canada
| | - Monsurat Afolabi
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine , Federal University of Agriculture , Alabata, Abeokuta, Ogun State , Nigeria
| | - Folorunso Oludayo Fasina
- ECTAD, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) , Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases , University of Pretoria , Pretoria , South Africa
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Veterinary Students Have a Higher Risk of Contracting Cryptosporidiosis when Calves with High Fecal Cryptosporidium Loads Are Used for Fetotomy Exercises. Appl Environ Microbiol 2020; 86:AEM.01250-20. [PMID: 32709724 PMCID: PMC7499042 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01250-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. can cause severe diarrhea in infected individuals. Cryptosporidium parvum is zoonotic, and cattle are the main reservoir. In several countries, outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis have occurred in veterinary students after handling calves. We carried out a 1-year-long prospective study to investigate the occurrence of these recurrent cryptosporidiosis outbreaks in Denmark. Our investigation used a One Health approach and combined comprehensive epidemiological approaches and laboratory methods applied to both students and calves in the setting of the fetotomy exercises. Two outbreaks took place during the study period; additionally, we retrospectively identified two more suspected outbreaks prior to the study period. The results illustrated a high risk of contracting cryptosporidiosis among veterinary students in the setting of the fetotomy exercises, especially when using calves with high fecal Cryptosporidium loads. Our data can be used to inform future efforts to prevent transmission of Cryptosporidium parvum to students during fetotomy exercises. An outbreak of cryptosporidiosis among veterinary students performing fetotomy exercises on euthanized calves took place in September 2018 in Denmark. A prospective cohort investigation was performed to identify risk factors and provide guidance for preventing outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis in this setting. Ninety-seven students attended the fetotomy exercises and completed a questionnaire about symptoms and potential risk behavior. Real-time PCR was used to detect Cryptosporidium spp. in stool samples from students and to quantify the fecal parasite load in the calves used for the exercises. gp60 subtyping was carried out for the Cryptosporidium-positive samples. Our case definition was based on participation in a fetotomy exercise, reported symptoms, and laboratory results. Eleven laboratory-confirmed or probable cases (11%) were identified in two outbreaks during the prospective study period, with attack rates of 4/10 (40%) and 7/9 (78%), respectively. The risk factors for cryptosporidiosis we identified were performing the exercise on a diarrheic calf, reporting visible fecal contamination on the personal protective equipment (PPE), and reporting problems with PPE during the exercise. Cryptosporidium parvum IIaA15G2R1 was detected in both cases and calves. A significantly higher proportion of the calves aged 7 days old and above were positive compared with younger calves. Furthermore, a high fecal Cryptosporidium load in a calf was associated with a higher probability of an outbreak among the students. Based on our results, using noninfected calves for the exercises, appropriate use of PPE, and thorough hand hygiene are recommended to reduce the risk of contracting cryptosporidiosis in connection with fetotomy exercises. IMPORTANCECryptosporidium spp. can cause severe diarrhea in infected individuals. Cryptosporidium parvum is zoonotic, and cattle are the main reservoir. In several countries, outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis have occurred in veterinary students after handling calves. We carried out a 1-year-long prospective study to investigate the occurrence of these recurrent cryptosporidiosis outbreaks in Denmark. Our investigation used a One Health approach and combined comprehensive epidemiological approaches and laboratory methods applied to both students and calves in the setting of the fetotomy exercises. Two outbreaks took place during the study period; additionally, we retrospectively identified two more suspected outbreaks prior to the study period. The results illustrated a high risk of contracting cryptosporidiosis among veterinary students in the setting of the fetotomy exercises, especially when using calves with high fecal Cryptosporidium loads. Our data can be used to inform future efforts to prevent transmission of Cryptosporidium parvum to students during fetotomy exercises.
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Nasiru Wana M, Mohd Moklas MA, Watanabe M, Nordin N, Zasmy Unyah N, Alhassan Abdullahi S, Ahmad Issa Alapid A, Mustapha T, Basir R, Abd. Majid R. A Review on the Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Humans and Animals Reported in Malaysia from 2008-2018. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E4809. [PMID: 32635389 PMCID: PMC7369958 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17134809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). Human toxoplasmosis seroprevalence in Malaysia has increased since it was first reported in 1973 as shown in previous reviews of 1991 and 2007. However, over a decade since the last review, comprehensive data on toxoplasmosis in Malaysia is lacking. This work aimed at reviewing articles on toxoplasmosis research in Malaysia in order to identify the research gaps, create public awareness, and efforts made so far and proffer management options on the disease. The present review examines the available published research articles from 2008 to 2018 related to toxoplasmosis research conducted in Malaysia. The articles reviewed were retrieved from nine credible databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, Springer, Wiley online library, Ovid, and Cochrane using the keywords; Malaysia, toxoplasmosis, Toxoplasma gondii, toxoplasma encephalitis, seroprevalence, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients, pregnant women, genotype strain, anti-toxoplasma antibodies, felines, and vaccine. The data highlighted seropositive cases from healthy community members in Pangkor Island (59.7%) and among migrant workers (57.4%) at alarming rates, as well as 42.5% in pregnant women. Data on animal seroprevalence were limited and there was no information on cats as the definitive host. Genetic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii from HIV patients; pregnant women, and domestic cats is lacking. This present review on toxoplasmosis is beneficial to researchers, health workers, animal health professionals, and policymakers. Therefore, attention is required to educate and enlighten health workers and the general public about the risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Nasiru Wana
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, 740272 Bauchi, Nigeria
| | - Mohamad Aris Mohd Moklas
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Malaika Watanabe
- Department of Companion Animal Medicine & Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Norshariza Nordin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Ngah Zasmy Unyah
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
| | - Sharif Alhassan Abdullahi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Bayero University Kano, 700241 Kano, Nigeria
| | - Ashraf Ahmad Issa Alapid
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science-Alasaba, University of Gharyan, 010101 Gharyan, Libya
| | - Tijjani Mustapha
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yobe State University Damaturu, 620101 Damaturu, Nigeria
| | - Rusliza Basir
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Roslaini Abd. Majid
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kem Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Selangor, Malaysia
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Liu A, Gong B, Liu X, Shen Y, Wu Y, Zhang W, Cao J. A retrospective epidemiological analysis of human Cryptosporidium infection in China during the past three decades (1987-2018). PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008146. [PMID: 32226011 PMCID: PMC7145189 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptosporidiosis is an emerging infectious disease of public health significance worldwide. The burden of disease caused by Cryptosporidium varies between and within countries/areas. To have a comprehensive understanding of epidemiological status and characteristics of human Cryptosporidium infection in China since the first report in 1987, a retrospective epidemiological analysis was conducted by presenting differences in the prevalence of Cryptosporidium by province, year, population, living environment and season and possible transmission routes and risk factors as well as genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium in humans. Methodology/Principal findings A systematic search was conducted to obtain epidemiological papers of human Cryptosporidium infection/cryptosporidiosis from PubMed and Chinese databases. Finally, 164 papers were included in our analysis. At least 200,054 people from 27 provinces were involved in investigational studies of Cryptosporidium, with an average prevalence of 2.97%. The prevalence changed slightly over time. Variable prevalences were observed: 0.65–11.15% by province, 1.89–47.79% by population, 1.77–12.87% and 0–3.70% in rural and urban areas, respectively. The prevalence peak occurred in summer or autumn. Indirect person-to-person transmission was documented in one outbreak of cryptosporidiosis in a pediatric hospital. 263 Cryptosporidium isolates were obtained, and seven Cryptosporidium species were identified: C. hominis (48.3%), C. andersoni (22.43%), C. parvum (16.7%), C. meleagridis (8.36%), C. felis (3.04%), C. canis (0.76%) and C. suis (0.38%). Conclusions/Significances This systematic review reflects current epidemiological status and characteristics of Cryptosporidium in humans in China. These data will be helpful to develop efficient control strategies to intervene with and prevent occurrence of human Cryptosporidium infection/cryptosporidiosis in China as well as have a reference effect to other countries. Further studies should focus on addressing a high frequency of C. andersoni in humans and a new challenge with respect to cryptosporidiosis with an increasing population of elderly people and patients with immunosuppressive diseases. Cryptosporidium is a major cause of diarrheal disease in humans globally. Due to the lack of effective drug treatment and vaccine prevention against cryptosporidiosis, it is particularly important to develop efficient control strategies to intervene with and prevent Cryptosporidium infection in humans. The present review presented and analyzed epidemiological status and characteristics of Cryptosporidium infection in humans in China since the first report in 1987. To date, epidemiological investigations of Cryptosporidium infecion have been carried out in different populations in 27 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities. Average prevalence of Cryptosporidium was 2.97% (5,933/200,054). Like other infectious disease, due to poor sanitation conditions in rural areas, people living in rural areas had a significantly higher prevalence of Cryptosporidium (1.77–12.87%) than those living in urban areas (0–3.70%). Seven Cryptosporidium species were identified, including C. hominis, C. andersoni, C. parvum, C. meleagridis, C. felis, C. canis and C. suis. This retrospective epidemiological analysis indicates wide geographical distribution of human Cryptosporidium infection/cryptosporidiosis in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiqin Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- * E-mail: (AL); (JC)
| | - Baiyan Gong
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yujuan Shen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research; WHO Collaborating Center`for Tropical Diseases; National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology; Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH; Shanghai, China
| | - Yanchen Wu
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Weizhe Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jianping Cao
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research; WHO Collaborating Center`for Tropical Diseases; National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology; Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, MOH; Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (AL); (JC)
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12
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Adebowale OO, Afolabi MO, Adesokan HK, Fasanmi OG, Adeyemo OK, Awoyomi OJ, Fasina FO. Determinants of Work-Related Risks among Veterinary Clinical Students in South West Nigeria. Vet Med Int 2020; 2020:2780378. [PMID: 32802304 PMCID: PMC7416248 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2780378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Veterinary practices or activities expose professionals, including students, to hazards associated with animal contact. To describe workplace health and safety status and risk factors associated with hazards among veterinary clinical students in South West Nigeria, a cross-sectional survey was conducted using a semistructured questionnaire. Data on demographics, health and safety (HS) status, work-related hazards, healthcare facilities, and immunisation history were obtained. Of 167 students recruited, 100 (60.2%) were males, and >77.1% fell within the age group of 21-25 years. Many participants (77.0%) reported the lack of active HS committee. Exposures to various physical hazards (PHs) such as needlestick injuries (NSIs, 41.5%), animal scratches (42.0%), animal kicks (33.0%), falls/slips (25.0%), and, less frequently, animal bites (13.8%) were reported. Allergies (35.9%) and acute gastrointestinal infection (25.6%) mainly after contact with dogs presented with parvoviral enteritis were reported. For chemical hazards, 27.8% and 29.0% of participants indicated having had eye burn and choke on exposure to formalin. No adequate immunisation against either tetanus, rabies, or both was provided (<18%). An association between accommodation type and students' level of health and safety training was observed (OR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.241-0.897, p=0.02), and frequencies of student contact with various animal types were strongly associated with exposures to different physical and biological risks (p < 0.05). This study revealed poor health and safety training, practices, and increased exposure of students to a wide range of hazards. Therefore, the development of mitigation programmes in veterinary schools becomes critical to safeguard students' wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwawemimo O. Adebowale
- 1Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Federal University of Agriculture, Alabata, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Monsurat O. Afolabi
- 1Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Federal University of Agriculture, Alabata, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Hezekiah K. Adesokan
- 2Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Olubunmi G. Fasanmi
- 3Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Olanike K. Adeyemo
- 2Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Olajoju J. Awoyomi
- 1Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Federal University of Agriculture, Alabata, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Folorunso O. Fasina
- 4ECTAD, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- 5Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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