1. Lethal co-infection of rotavirus and E. coli 0157:H7 in Mediterranean buffalo calves of a closed community in Italy.
- Author
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Nizza, S., Mallardo, K., Manco, E., Marullo, A., Pisanelli, G., De Martino, L., Iovane, G., and Pagnini, U.
- Subjects
WATER buffalo ,DIARRHEA in animals ,ESCHERICHIA coli ,CATTLE industry ,ANIMAL industry ,FOODBORNE diseases ,LIVESTOCK inspection ,ROTAVIRUS diseases ,WATER buffalo breeds ,DIAGNOSIS ,DISEASES - Abstract
Lethal episodes in buffalo calf due to rotavirus and E. coli 0157:H7 is herein reported. Eight 30-day-old buffalo calves with severe diarrhoea were studied by bacteriological and virological examinations on their faecal samples. Episodes with rotavirus alone were more less severe as compared to episodes where co-infection with E. coli was found. The group A rotavirus isolates were characterized for G- and P-type and the E. coli strains were analysed by Vero cell assay and PCR. This study shows the presence of group A rotavirus of G6-P[5] serotypes and E. coli 0157:H7 (EHEC) in faecal samples. So far the concomitant presence of rotavirus and E. coli 0157:H7 in cases of enteritis in Bubalus bubalis in Italy is not reported in the literature. Diarrhoeal diseases caused by the above pathogens mostly affect young children, and those who live in rural areas usually have more infection from animals than those of urban dwellers. Our data might indicate a potential risk factor existing for the farm workers in buffalo-breedings in Italy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2010