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Despite the efforts of practical medicine and virology, influenza viruses remain the most important pathogens affecting human and animal health. Swine are exposed to infection with all types of influenza A, B, C, and D viruses. Influenza viruses have low pathogenicity for swine, but in the case of co-infection with other pathogens, the outcome can be much more serious, even fatal. Having a high zoonotic potential, swine play an important role in the ecology and spread of influenza to humans. In this study, we review the state of the scientific literature on the zoonotic spread of swine influenza A viruses among humans, their circulation in swine populations worldwide, reverse zoonosis from humans to swine, and their role in interspecies transmission. The analysis covers a long period to trace the ecology and evolutionary history of influenza A viruses in swine. The following databases were used to search the literature: Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed. In this review, 314 papers are considered: n = 107 from Asia, n = 93 from the U.S., n = 86 from Europe, n = 20 from Africa, and n = 8 from Australia. According to the date of publication, they are conditionally divided into three groups: contemporary, released from 2011 to the present (n = 121); 2000–2010 (n = 108); and 1919–1999 (n = 85). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect pest species are generally expected to become more destructive with climate change because of factors such as weakened host tree defences during droughts and increased voltinism under rising temperatures; however, responses will vary by species due to a variety of factors, including altered interactions with their natural enemies. Entomopathogens are a substantial source of mortality in insects, but the likelihood of epizootics can depend strongly on climatic conditions. Previous research indicates that rates of infection of the spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) by its host-specific fungal pathogen, Entomophaga maimaiga, increase with environmental moisture and decrease as temperatures rise. High temperatures may have direct and indirect (due to the associated drying) effects on the fungus, but the interactive effects between temperature and moisture level on larval infection are unclear. Here, we test the hypothesis that warmer, drier conditions will decrease rates of infection of spongy moth larvae by E. maimaiga. We evaluated the effects of precipitation and temperature on larval mortality caused by E. maimaiga with a manipulative field experiment, conducted in one of the northernmost and coldest parts of the spongy moth's non-native range in North America. We caged laboratory-reared spongy moth larvae in experimentally warmed open-air forest plots, exposing the larvae to soil inoculated with E. maimaiga resting spores during two consecutive trials. Caged larvae were exposed to three temperature treatments — ambient, 1.7 °C above ambient and 3.4 °C above ambient — and either supplemental precipitation (+173 mm per trial) or ambient precipitation. Opposite to our hypothesis, there was no significant effect of supplemental precipitation, nor an interaction between precipitation and temperature. There was, however, a significant positive effect of increasing temperature on the number of larvae infected. On average, in each respective trial, larval infection increased by 44% and 50% under the elevated temperature treatments compared to ambient temperature. Experimental warming may have increased infections because ambient temperatures at the field site were suboptimal for fungal germination. The results from this experiment suggest that, in colder portions of the spongy moth's invasive range, increasing temperatures due to climate change may enhance the ability of E. maimaiga to help control populations of the spongy moth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Dirofilaria immitis is a very important parasite of dogs that is transmitted by mosquitoes. The adult parasites live in the dog's heart and can cause severe health problems, such as heart failure and even death. Today, it is well known that in the northern areas of Greece, a country in the Mediterranean basin, the percentages of infected dogs are high, while in the southern areas there are few reports of infected dogs. The aim of this study was to address the question of whether this infection is spreading in the southern parts of Greece as well. So, we examined 1528 blood samples from dogs derived from the southern regions and compared our results to the rate of infection recorded before 2022 in these parts of the country. Indeed, the results showed that approximately 1 out of 10 dogs was infected and, most impressively, the number of infected dogs has increased almost four times since 2022. This knowledge is very important for practicing veterinarians and pet owners in order to perform routine diagnostic tests and apply control measures. Although Dirofilaria immitis in dogs is considered enzootic in northern Greece, the available data on the occurrence of infection in southern parts of the country demonstrate its scarcity. The aim of this study was to update the current knowledge on D. immitis infection in dogs in areas of Greece previously considered non-enzootic (Central Greece, Attica, Peloponnese, North Aegean, South Aegean, Crete and the Ionian islands). In total, 1528 dog blood samples were collected from the aforementioned areas and examined by Dirochek® ELISA (Synbiotics). Additionally, data published until 2022 on the prevalence of infection in these areas were compared to the data of this study. The 'Wilson' Score interval method (Epitools) was employed. Overall, 10.8% of dogs were positive for D. immitis. In detail, the prevalence was 21.7, 13.7, 10.7, 5.4, 4.7, 6.2 and 17.0% for D. immitis, in Central Greece, Attica, Peloponnese, North Aegean, South Aegean, Crete and the Ionian islands, respectively. Infection with D. immitis is recorded for the first time in Crete. The probability of a dog becoming infected has increased 4.1 times since 2022 in previously non-enzootic areas. This study denotes the spread of D. immitis and highlights the necessity for preventive measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the efforts of practical medicine and virology, influenza viruses remain the most important pathogens affecting human and animal health. Swine are exposed to infection with all types of influenza A, B, C, and D viruses. Influenza viruses have low pathogenicity for swine, but in the case of co-infection with other pathogens, the outcome can be much more serious, even fatal. Having a high zoonotic potential, swine play an important role in the ecology and spread of influenza to humans. In this study, we review the state of the scientific literature on the zoonotic spread of swine influenza A viruses among humans, their circulation in swine populations worldwide, reverse zoonosis from humans to swine, and their role in interspecies transmission. The analysis covers a long period to trace the ecology and evolutionary history of influenza A viruses in swine. The following databases were used to search the literature: Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed. In this review, 314 papers are considered: n = 107 from Asia, n = 93 from the U.S., n = 86 from Europe, n = 20 from Africa, and n = 8 from Australia. According to the date of publication, they are conditionally divided into three groups: contemporary, released from 2011 to the present (n = 121); 2000–2010 (n = 108); and 1919–1999 (n = 85).

Pandora neoaphidis is a common entomopathogenic fungus on Sitobion avenae, which is an important aphid pest on cereals in Europe. Pandora neoaphidis is known to cause epizootics (i.e. an unusually high prevalence of infected hosts) and the rapid collapse of aphid populations. We developed a weather-driven mechanistic model of the winter wheat-S. avenae-P. neoaphidis system to simulate the dynamics from spring to harvest. Aphid immigration was fixed at a rate that would lead to a pest outbreak, if not controlled by the fungus. We estimated the biocontrol efficacy by running pair-wise simulations, one with and one without the fungus. Uncertainty in model parameters and variation in weather was included, resulting in a range of simulation outcomes, and a global sensitivity analysis was performed. We identified two key understudied parameters that require more extensive experimental data collection to better assess the fungus biocontrol, namely the fungus transmission efficiency and the decay of cadaver, which defines the time window for possible disease transmission. The parameters with the largest influence on the improvement in yield were the weather, the lethal time of exposed aphids, the fungus transmission efficiency, and the humidity threshold for fungus development, while the fungus inoculum in the chosen range (between 10 and 70% of immigrant aphids carrying the fungus) was less influential. The model suggests that epizootics occurring early, around Zadoks growth stage (GS) 61, would lead to successful biocontrol, while later epizootics (GS 73) were a necessary but insufficient condition for success. These model predictions were based on the prevalence of cadavers only, not of exposed (i.e. infected but yet non-symptomatic) aphids, which in practice would be costly to monitor. The model suggests that practical Integrated Pest Management could thus benefit from including the cadavers prevalence in a monitoring program. We argue for further research to experimentally estimate these cadaver thresholds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study highlights the significance of data availability in molecular genetic research, focusing on cattle nodular dermatitis virus. Limited data on Russian genetic variants hinders comprehensive virus characterization. Molecular genetic methods are crucial for accurate diagnosis, considering cross-reactions with poxviruses. Increased data availability is essential to improve diagnostics and biosafety in the region. Method: The researchers conducted a molecular genetic analysis of the gene sequences of the nodular dermatitis virus to assess the variability of the virus. The authors used the GenBank database to compare sequences and used the MEGA X program for phylogenetic analysis and sequence alignment. Results: The sequences of the nodular dermatitis virus closest to the Russian genetic variants have been determined. The volumes of available epizootiological and molecular genetic data were compared, and the circulation of the vaccine strain was confirmed. Conclusion: The article emphasizes the need to increase the availability of data on the genetic sequences of Russian samples to fully characterize the genetic diversity of the nodular dermatitis virus. Despite the limited data, the authors observed a tendency to increase genetic diversity. They recommend isolating and storing the virus in the cell culture to enhance genetic information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colibacillosis is a bacterial disease of humans, animals and birds caused by Escherichia coli, pathogenic gram-negative bacillus. Despite its secondary nature, colibacillosis widely affects poultry farms and causes significant economic losses. The disease spread is closely associated with antibiotic resistance problem because a diseased carrier bird may be a reservoir of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli strains. In addition, genes of virulence and resistance have been proven to be transferred from avian Escherichia strains toextra intestinal pathogenic strains that are dangerous to humans. Colibacillosis is transmitted aerogenically, alimentally, rarely transovarially, with droppings, mucus, feed, water, handling tools and operating personnel. Birds are most susceptible attheage of1–14days and at the onset of laying period. The disease may present asacute, subacute and chronic forms and is most often manifested by catarrhal hemorrhagic enteritis with profuse foamy diarrhea, respiratory tract lesions, fibrinous peritonitis and polyserositis, as well as a significant decrease in weight gains, stunting, egg laying decrease or complete cessation. Colibacillosis is diagnosed comprehensively taking into account the epizootic situation, findings of clinical examination and postmortem examination of dead or emergency-slaughtered poultry as well as laboratory test and bioassay results. Bacteriological, serological and molecular genetic methods are used for the disease diagnosis. Colibacillosis prevention includes improvement of poultry keeping practice (control of feed and water quality, disinfection, pest control, microclimate control) as well as timely complex vaccination of all poultry. The disease shall be treated taking into account primary etiological factors and bacteria sensitivity to antimicrobials.

Feline hepatozoonosis is a vector-borne disease caused by different species of the genus Hepatozoon, i.e. Hepatozoon felis, Hepatozoon silvestris and Hepatozoon canis. Knowledge on the biology, epidemiology and taxonomy of Hepatozoon spp. is still limited, despite the fact that the number of documented Hepatozoon spp. infections in domestic cats increased in recent years in different countries. This study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence and the genetic profile of Hepatozoon spp. in cats living on the island of Skopelos, Greece. Individual blood samples were collected from 54 owned cats and were subjected to Giemsa-stained blood smear examination to investigate the presence of Hepatozoon spp. gamonts and to a specific PCR protocol targeting the 18S rRNA gene of Hepatozoon. A total of 45 cats (83.3%) were found infected by Hepatozoon spp. by at least one of the methods applied. In particular, 43 (79.6%) of the cats were PCR-positive, and in 6 (11.1%) cats gamonts of Hepatozoon spp. were found in the blood smears. A total of 26 H. felis sequences were obtained and the presence of three undescribed single nucleotide polymorphisms were detected. The present results indicate that H. felis species complex may be hyperendemic in isolated/confined areas. In such contexts, geographical isolation may favor the origin of new genotypes or haplotypes or even new species.

Although Dirofilaria immitis in dogs is considered enzootic in northern Greece, the available data on the occurrence of infection in southern parts of the country demonstrate its scarcity. The aim of this study was to update the current knowledge on D. immitis infection in dogs in areas of Greece previously considered non-enzootic (Central Greece, Attica, Peloponnese, North Aegean, South Aegean, Crete and the Ionian islands). In total, 1528 dog blood samples were collected from the aforementioned areas and examined by Dirochek® ELISA (Synbiotics). Additionally, data published until 2022 on the prevalence of infection in these areas were compared to the data of this study. The ‘Wilson’ Score interval method (Epitools) was employed. Overall, 10.8% of dogs were positive for D. immitis. In detail, the prevalence was 21.7, 13.7, 10.7, 5.4, 4.7, 6.2 and 17.0% for D. immitis, in Central Greece, Attica, Peloponnese, North Aegean, South Aegean, Crete and the Ionian islands, respectively. Infection with D. immitis is recorded for the first time in Crete. The probability of a dog becoming infected has increased 4.1 times since 2022 in previously non-enzootic areas. This study denotes the spread of D. immitis and highlights the necessity for preventive measures.

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal neurological disease of cervids caused by a misfolded protein with no vaccines or other cures to prevent infection and death. In the past decade, CWD has been recognized as one of the 10 most important challenges facing wildlife management. This paper evaluates the temporal and spatial patterns of CWD prevalence in southern Wisconsin white‐tailed deer during the past 20 years. In most CWD areas, prevalence progresses from introduction to enzootic equilibrium in 15–20 years. In some monitoring areas, the disease grows at a much slower rate and remains below the equilibrium levels. Outbreaks are characterized by four distinct epizootic stages. Disease establishment (Stage 1) depends on the distance from a CWD focus. High rates of incidence and prevalence growth (Stage 2) are followed by slower growth as the relative number of susceptible deer declines (Stage 3). The rate of prevalence increase over time is higher in more forested ecoregions and in males (0.48 vs. 0.43) but similar in females (0.43 vs. 0.37) and yearlings (0.44 vs. 0.39). Habitat features, acting as surrogates for deer behavior and contact, may affect the rate of prevalence growth at a landscape (ecoregion) scale. Additionally, prevalence may be affected by deer management practices that favor higher deer abundance and more mature males. Finally, enzootic equilibrium (Stage 4) is higher in males (0.5), followed by females (0.36) and then yearlings (0.26). These equilibrium prevalence levels are high enough to have significant population impacts, reduce the abundance of mature males, and facilitate CWD spread by infected yearlings. Epizootic patterns suggest that CWD transmission has been frequency‐dependent and primarily driven by direct contact with infected deer. Evidence for a meaningful change in the epizootic pattern from a 10‐year management program to reduce deer abundance is lacking. The trajectory of CWD dynamics in Wisconsin suggests rapid growth in regional prevalence following introduction and increased spread across the landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The horn fly Haematobia irritans is a cosmopolitan hematophagous ectoparasite of great importance in livestock. In Mexico, H. irritans is distributed across the country, and is found during the whole year. The fluctuation of H. irritans population is related with climate conditions. Despite its wide distribution, the effects on animal health, and its negative impact on meat and milk production, little data exists on its infestation and epidemiology is limited. This paper is a review on the current situation of H. irritans in cattle in Mexico, its economic impact, control methods, perspectives, and research opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal neurological disease of cervids caused by a misfolded protein with no vaccines or other cures to prevent infection and death. In the past decade, CWD has been recognized as one of the 10 most important challenges facing wildlife management. This paper evaluates the temporal and spatial patterns of CWD prevalence in southern Wisconsin white‐tailed deer during the past 20 years. In most CWD areas, prevalence progresses from introduction to enzootic equilibrium in 15–20 years. In some monitoring areas, the disease grows at a much slower rate and remains below the equilibrium levels. Outbreaks are characterized by four distinct epizootic stages. Disease establishment (Stage 1) depends on the distance from a CWD focus. High rates of incidence and prevalence growth (Stage 2) are followed by slower growth as the relative number of susceptible deer declines (Stage 3). The rate of prevalence increase over time is higher in more forested ecoregions and in males (0.48 vs. 0.43) but similar in females (0.43 vs. 0.37) and yearlings (0.44 vs. 0.39). Habitat features, acting as surrogates for deer behavior and contact, may affect the rate of prevalence growth at a landscape (ecoregion) scale. Additionally, prevalence may be affected by deer management practices that favor higher deer abundance and more mature males. Finally, enzootic equilibrium (Stage 4) is higher in males (0.5), followed by females (0.36) and then yearlings (0.26). These equilibrium prevalence levels are high enough to have significant population impacts, reduce the abundance of mature males, and facilitate CWD spread by infected yearlings. Epizootic patterns suggest that CWD transmission has been frequency‐dependent and primarily driven by direct contact with infected deer. Evidence for a meaningful change in the epizootic pattern from a 10‐year management program to reduce deer abundance is lacking. The trajectory of CWD dynamics in Wisconsin suggests rapid growth in regional prevalence following introduction and increased spread across the landscape.

Arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) are susceptible to smooth Brucella (s-Brucella) infection and may be exposed to such bacteria through the consumption of infected marine mammals, as implied by the finding of s-Brucella antibodies in polar bears (Ursus maritimus). Arctic foxes in Svalbard have not previously been investigated for s-Brucella antibodies, but such antibodies have been detected in Arctic foxes in Iceland, Alaska (USA) and Russia. We investigated blood from Svalbard Arctic foxes for s-Brucella antibodies using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). The animals (0–13 years old) were either caught by fur trappers (1995–2003, n = 403) or found dead (1995 and 2003, n = 3). No seropositive animals were detected. Morbidity and mortality due to the infection cannot be ruled out. However, no known, large disease outbreaks of unknown aetiology have been reported. Furthermore, it is unlikely that the Svalbard Arctic fox is resistant to infection as Arctic foxes from other populations are susceptible, and there is circumpolar connectivity between populations. The discrepancy between the findings in Iceland and Svalbard is surprising as both populations are on islands with no known local sources of exposure to s-Brucella other than marine mammals. However, our negative findings suggest that marine mammals may not be a major source of infection for this species. Comparative investigations are needed in order to draw conclusions regarding the epizootiology of s-Brucella in Arctic foxes in Svalbard and Iceland.

A large knowledge gap exists regarding the disease profile and pathologic condition of the invasive, slipper limpet Crepidula fornicata. To help address this, we performed a year-long health survey at two sites in South Wales, UK – subtidal Swansea Bay and intertidal Milford Haven. In total, 1,800 limpets were screened systematically for haemolymph bacterial burdens using both general and vibrio-selective growth media (TSA + 2% NaCl and TCBS, respectively), haemolymph (blood) inspection using microscopy, a PCR-based assay targeting Vibrio spp., and multi-tissue histology. Over 99% of haemolymph samples contained cultivable bacterial colony-forming units, and 83% of limpets tested positive for the presence of vibrios via PCR (confirmed via Sanger sequencing). Vibrio presence did not vary greatly between sites, yet a strong seasonal effect was observed with significantly higher bacterial loads during the summer. Binomial logistic regression models revealed larger (older) limpets were more likely to harbour vibrios, and the growth of bacteria on TCBS was a key predictor for PCR-based vibrio detection. Histological assessment of > 340 animals revealed little evidence of inflammation, sepsis or immune reactivity despite the gross bacterial numbers. We contend that slipper limpets are not highly susceptible to bacteriosis at either site, and do not harbour vibrios known to be pathogenic to humans. The lack of susceptibility to local pathogenic bacteria may explain, in part, the invasion success of C. fornicata across this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Veterinary surveillance frequently requires study design for freedom-from-disease testing, specifying a sample size to balance higher statistical power with larger sample sizes against increased research and ethics costs, with the recognition that tests can generate false positive and negative results: i.e., tests exhibit imperfect sensitivity and specificity. In this paper, we revisit the mathematics behind exact calculations of sample size in terms of the binomial and hypergeometric distributions, and present a new algorithm - implemented and available to use in R as a Shiny application with a graphical user interface - to determine sample size for practical situations. Often, sample size calculations are based upon simulations or approximations, but we show here that exact calculations are feasible. In addition, we relax the liberal assumption - which provides conservative sample-size estimates - that sensitivity and specificity are known exactly, and instead assume both are Beta distributed with known hyperparameters. The application presented here was originally designed as a learning tool for students and is now made available for wider use., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The author declares no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background and Aim: Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that affects humans and animals. This study aimed to review the influence of economic and organizational, veterinary, and sanitary measures on the epizootic situation of animal tuberculosis and the epidemiological situation of human tuberculosis in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Materials and Methods: The epizootic situation of cattle tuberculosis in Kazakhstan was studied based on the annual statistics of allergy testing of animals with tuberculosis by the Committee for Veterinary Control and Supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, according to the results of allergic, clinical, and pathological studies, including laboratory studies of biomaterials from animals that reacted to tuberculin. Tuberculinization of cattle in the country is performed twice in the spring and autumn using tuberculin purified protein derivative for mammals. In addition, mass diagnosis of human tuberculosis is conducted by radiology. Results: The authors assessed the epizootic situation of tuberculosis in cattle in Kazakhstan from 1991 to 2019. The analysis results showed that at the beginning, the epizootic situation in cattle tuberculosis was challenging. However, since 2001, there has been a noticeable decrease in tuberculosis in animals in Kazakhstan, which has had a favorable effect on the epidemic situation of human tuberculosis. Conclusion: According to the analysis results, the measures used in the Republic of Kazakhstan to prevent tuberculosis improved the well-being of livestock farms. The proper conduct by qualified veterinary specialists on allergy testing of animals and differential diagnosis of nonspecific tuberculin reactions allows establishing an accurate epizootic picture of tuberculosis. Furthermore, strict adherence to instructions on the diagnosis and prevention of tuberculosis, implementation of developed veterinary, sanitary, and organization, and economic measures can improve the epizootic picture of tuberculosis, reducing the risk of human tuberculosis.

The present study report on epizootiology, pathogenicity and haemato-immunological aspects of Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, GBS) serotype Ib (GBS-Ib) affecting climbing perch (Anabas testudineus) in southern Thailand. Study on growth of GBS-Ib under various conditions indicated that this bacterium grew from 25 to 35C, pH 5 to 9 and 0.5 to 4.0% NaCl. Climbing perch inoculated by intraperitoneally injected GBS-Ib at concentrations of 101 to 104 CFU/mL exhibited 60.00-96.67% mortality, with 60 h-LD50 and 72 h-LD50 at 4.5x102 CFU/mL and 6.3x101 CFU/mL inoculums, respectively. Study of the haemato-immunological changes in the fish infected with GBS-Ib revealed declines of haematocrit, haemoglobin, serum protein, red blood cells, and respiratory burst activity. On the other hand, white blood cells, lysozyme activity, phagocytic index, and average beads per cell, were significantly increased in the infected fish. Study on the effect of environmental factors on the susceptibility of fish to GBS-Ib infection indicated that high water temperature and low dissolved oxygen levels proved to increase mortality of climbing perch. These findings indicate that GBS-Ib is a pathogenic bacterium responsible for fish mortality in Thailand.

Fibropapillomatosis (FP) threatens the survival of green turtle (Chelonia mydas) populations at a global scale, and human activities are regularly pointed as causes of high FP prevalence. However, the association of ecological factors with the disease's severity in complex coastal systems has not been well established and requires further studies. Based on a set of 405 individuals caught over ten years, this preliminary study provides the first insight of FP in Martinique Island, which is a critical development area for immature green turtles. Our main results are: (i) 12.8% of the individuals were affected by FP, (ii) FP has different prevalence and temporal evolution between very close sites, (iii) green turtles are more frequently affected on the upper body part such as eyes (41.4%), fore flippers (21.9%), and the neck (9.4%), and (iv) high densities of individuals are observed on restricted areas. We hypothesise that turtle's aggregation enhances horizontal transmission of the disease. FP could represent a risk for immature green turtles' survival in the French West Indies, a critical development area, which replenishes the entire Atlantic population. Continuing scientific monitoring is required to identify which factors are implicated in this panzootic disease and ensure the conservation of the green turtle at an international scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To better understand the epizootiology of caprine paratuberculosis in the North of Portugal, a cross-sectional study was conducted from 2014 to 2015. The seroprevalence and risk factors for Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (Map) seropositivity were evaluated. Antibodies against Map were determined by a commercial ELISA. In 936 sera tested from 56 goat herds, 120 (12.8%, 95% CI: 10.8–15.1%) goats and 34 (60.7%, 95% CI: 47.6–72.4%) herds were positive. Risk factors for seropositivity were investigated by logistic regression models. The odds of Map seropositivity were found to be higher for animals with clinical signs, OR = 5.1 (95% CI: 2.7–9.6%), animals belonging to herds with previous wasting disease, OR = 2.3 (95% CI: 1.1–4.8%), and accumulation of manure in the herd, OR = 3.1 (95% CI: 1.7–5.7%). The potential risk factors identified in this study support the current recommendations for the control of paratuberculosis in these and other animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) are susceptible to smooth Brucella (s-Brucella) infection and may be exposed to such bacteria through the consumption of infected marine mammals, as implied by the finding of s-Brucella antibodies in polar bears (Ursus maritimus). Arctic foxes in Svalbard have not previously been investigated for s-Brucella antibodies, but such antibodies have been detected in Arctic foxes in Iceland, Alaska (USA) and Russia. We investigated blood from Svalbard Arctic foxes for s-Brucella antibodies using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). The animals (0-13 years old) were either caught by fur trappers (1995-2003, n = 403) or found dead (1995 and 2003, n = 3). No seropositive animals were detected. Morbidity and mortality due to the infection cannot be ruled out. However, no known, large disease outbreaks of unknown aetiology have been reported. Furthermore, it is unlikely that the Svalbard Arctic fox is resistant to infection as Arctic foxes from other populations are susceptible, and there is circumpolar connectivity between populations. The discrepancy between the findings in Iceland and Svalbard is surprising as both populations are on islands with no known local sources of exposure to s-Brucella other than marine mammals. However, our negative findings suggest that marine mammals may not be a major source of infection for this species. Comparative investigations are needed in order to draw conclusions regarding the epizootiology of s-Brucella in Arctic foxes in Svalbard and Iceland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The privately owned companion dog is an emerging model in comparative medicine, notably because it shares the human environment including its risk factors, is affected by many analogous age-related diseases, receives comparable medical care, and has excellent veterinary medical data available. Past studies of dog lifespan have used academic, corporate or insurance data. While independent primary care data exist for the UK, none have as of yet been published for the US. This study analyzed data from three independent primary care US veterinary hospitals and identified factors that influence lifespan and mortality in a cohort of n = 20,970 privately owned dogs using Kaplan-Meier survival estimators and Cox Proportional Hazards modelling, including body size as a covariate. Results As previously reported, body size was negatively correlated with lifespan. Gonadectomy was associated with a longer lifespan, with the effect being stronger in females than in males. This lifespan advantage was conserved in gonadectomized female dogs that lived to at least ages 5 and 8 years. We did not find significant differences in lifespan between purebred and mixed breed dogs; however, breeds with larger effective population sizes and/or lower inbreeding coefficients had median survival times 3–6 months longer than breeds with smaller effective population sizes or higher inbreeding coefficients, indicating that these measures of genetic diversity may be affecting breed lifespans. We also found that dog breeds belonging to the “Mountain” ancestral group had median survival times that were 3.5–4.6 years shorter than other purebred dog groups, which remained significant even when correcting for body size. Conclusions Our findings show that it is possible to obtain and analyze data from independent veterinary clinics in the US, an approach that could be useful for studies of comparative epidemiology under the One Health and One Welfare paradigms. We also show that the lifespan effects of gonadectomy are not identical between the sexes and should be investigated separately by sex in future analyses. More research is needed to further clarify the influence of age at gonadectomy, as well as the factors leading to the observed differences in lifespan in the “Mountain” ancestral group and in dog breeds of varying inbreeding coefficients and effective population sizes.

Feline hepatozoonosis is a vector-borne disease caused by different species of the genus Hepatozoon , i.e. Hepatozoon felis , Hepatozoon silvestris and Hepatozoon canis . Knowledge on the biology, epidemiology and taxonomy of Hepatozoon spp. is still limited, despite the fact that the number of documented Hepatozoon spp. infections in domestic cats increased in recent years in different countries. This study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence and the genetic profile of Hepatozoon spp. in cats living on the island of Skopelos, Greece. Individual blood samples were collected from 54 owned cats and were subjected to Giemsa-stained blood smear examination to investigate the presence of Hepatozoon spp. gamonts and to a specific PCR protocol targeting the 18S rRNA gene of Hepatozoon . A total of 45 cats (83.3%) were found infected by Hepatozoon spp. by at least one of the methods applied. In particular, 43 (79.6%) of the cats were PCR-positive, and in 6 (11.1%) cats gamonts of Hepatozoon spp. were found in the blood smears. A total of 26  H. felis sequences were obtained and the presence of three undescribed single nucleotide polymorphisms were detected. The present results indicate that H. felis species complex may be hyperendemic in isolated/confined areas. In such contexts, geographical isolation may favor the origin of new genotypes or haplotypes or even new species., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Tapeworms (Cestoda) represents a species rich (about 5000 species) group of flatworms (Neodermata) parasitizing all groups of vertebrates including humans, with about 1000 species parasitizing elasmobranchs and almost 500 occurring in teleosts as adults. They are common parasites of cultured fish, both as adults and larvae (metacestodes), but only few adult tapeworms are actually pathogenic for their fish hosts. In contrast, cestode larvae can be harmful for fish, especially plerocercoids migrating throughout their tissue and internal organs. Current knowledge of host–parasite relationships, including immune response of fish infected with tapeworms, is still insufficient to enable adequate control of cestodoses, and most data available were obtained several decades ago. Treatment of fish infected with adult tapeworms is effective, especially with praziquantel, whereas the treatment of metacestodes is problematic. Control measures include interruption of the complex life cycle and prevention of transport of uninspected fish to new region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corn leafhopper Dalbulus maidis is one of the most important pests of maize in Latin America. Here we report, for the first time, the natural occurrence of two fungal species infecting the adult stage of this pest. In 2020, insects killed by a pale bluish green fungus in irrigated maize fields located in Northeast Brazil were found attached to the abaxial surface of leaves. Using morphological characters and multigenic phylogeny, it was identified as Metarhizium brasiliense. In the beginning of 2021, the same pathogen was seen on adults in a maize field in the Central-Western region, alongside an entomophthoralean fungus during an epizootic. The latter pathogen was molecularly identified as a species in the genus Batkoa. The number of Batkoa -infected leafhoppers, displaying the typical swollen abdomen and extended wings, reached an average of 1.88 per maize leaf (86.42% of the sampled adults). The incidence of M. brasiliense was higher in plots in the Northeastern region (0.22 and 0.53 adult per leaf) when compared to the Central-Western region (0.04 adult per leaf). The report of D. maidis adults infected by M. brasiliense in agricultural settings located in different geographic regions and over 550 km apart indicates probable widespread occurrence of this pathogen in Brazil. Moreover, this opens the possibility of more applied biological control studies and, perhaps, the development of new tools to manage D. maidis populations. - The natural occurrence of fungal entomopathogens on Dalbulus maidis is reported - Two fungal species were found infecting D. maidis adults in two regions of Brazil - Pathogens were identified as Batkoa sp. and Metarhizium brasiliense - Coepizootic of Batkoa sp. and M. brasiliense was detected in one of the corn fields [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For several decades, white plagues (WPDs: WPD-I, II and III) and more recently, stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) have significantly impacted Caribbean corals. These diseases are often difficult to separate in the field as they produce similar gross signs. Here we aimed to compare what we know about WPD and SCTLD in terms of: (1) pathology, (2) etiology, and (3) epizootiology. We reviewed over 114 peer-reviewed publications from 1973 to 2021. Overall, WPD and SCTLD resemble each other macroscopically, mainly due to the rapid tissue loss they produce in their hosts, however, SCTLD has a more concise case definition. Multiple-coalescent lesions are often observed in colonies with SCTLD and rarely in WPD. A unique diagnostic sign of SCTLD is the presence of bleached circular areas when SCTLD lesions are first appearing in the colony. The paucity of histopathologic archives for WPDs for multiple species across geographies makes it impossible to tell if WPD is the same as SCTLD. Both diseases alter the coral microbiome. WPD is controversially regarded as a bacterial infection and more recently a viral infection, whereas for SCTLD the etiology has not been identified, but the putative pathogen, likely to be a virus, has not been confirmed yet. Most striking differences between WPD and SCTLD have been related to duration and phases of epizootic events and mortality rates. While both diseases may become highly prevalent on reefs, SCTLD seems to be more persistent even throughout years. Both transmit directly (contact) and horizontally (waterborne), but organism-mediated transmission is only proven for WPD-II. Given the differences and similarities between these diseases, more detailed information is needed for a better comparison. Specifically, it is important to focus on: (1) tagging colonies to look at disease progression and tissue mortality rates, (2) tracking the fate of the epizootic event by looking at initial coral species affected, the features of lesions and how they spread over colonies and to a wider range of hosts, (3) persistence across years, and (4) repetitive sampling to look at changes in the microbiome as the disease progresses. Our review shows that WPDs and SCTLD are the major causes of coral tissue loss recorded in the Caribbean.

Background and Aim: Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that affects humans and animals. This study aimed to review the influence of economic and organizational, veterinary, and sanitary measures on the epizootic situation of animal tuberculosis and the epidemiological situation of human tuberculosis in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Materials and Methods: The epizootic situation of cattle tuberculosis in Kazakhstan was studied based on the annual statistics of allergy testing of animals with tuberculosis by the Committee for Veterinary Control and Supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, according to the results of allergic, clinical, and pathological studies, including laboratory studies of biomaterials from animals that reacted to tuberculin. Tuberculinization of cattle in the country is performed twice in the spring and autumn using tuberculin purified protein derivative for mammals. In addition, mass diagnosis of human tuberculosis is conducted by radiology. Results: The authors assessed the epizootic situation of tuberculosis in cattle in Kazakhstan from 1991 to 2019. The analysis results showed that at the beginning, the epizootic situation in cattle tuberculosis was challenging. However, since 2001, there has been a noticeable decrease in tuberculosis in animals in Kazakhstan, which has had a favorable effect on the epidemic situation of human tuberculosis. Conclusion: According to the analysis results, the measures used in the Republic of Kazakhstan to prevent tuberculosis improved the well-being of livestock farms. The proper conduct by qualified veterinary specialists on allergy testing of animals and differential diagnosis of nonspecific tuberculin reactions allows establishing an accurate epizootic picture of tuberculosis. Furthermore, strict adherence to instructions on the diagnosis and prevention of tuberculosis, implementation of developed veterinary, sanitary, and organization, and economic measures can improve the epizootic picture of tuberculosis, reducing the risk of human tuberculosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Apprehensions about the safety and the environment regarding the insecticidal application against insect infestations have directed our attention toward advancement of biological mediators so that they are assimilated into the concept of integrated pest management stratagems to develop a more practical approach for the management of insect pests. Management of insect pests by making use of biological approaches (such as fungal entomopathogens (EPF) or others which are antagonistic to insect population) provides a substitute approach which reduces the continuous use of chemical amalgams against insect pests. Main body: The present review provides a framework of the present status of information on EPF as it identifies with their current use as biological control of pest infestations. To utilize a variety of biological control methodologies against insect hosts, it is essential to improve our comprehension of the ecology of EPF and also their role in nature. This article may assist us with understanding the virulence and the virulence factors related with EPF and present the latest developments and accomplishments in the significant field. We focus on recent instances of studies that show the overall patterns in interactions among insect pests and EPF prompting the advancement of epizootics. Also, we sum up the topical discoveries on current status of mycoinsecticides and propose future research needs. Conclusions: As the current mechanism of fungal pathogenesis on insects is moderately slow and needs improvement, there is likewise the requirement for additional comprehension of the interactions among entomopathogens and insect pests so as to grow soundly planned procedures by identifying potential targets and via the improvement of fungal strains for improving the adequacy of these organisms in field applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coccidiosis is a protozoan intestinal disease that reduces the production of the sheep industry and causes large economic losses for sheep. Although chemically synthesised drugs are routinely employed to treat coccidiosis in sheep, the anticoccidial drug resistance and drug residues in edible meat have prompted an urgent search for alternatives. Herein, the anticoccidial properties of diclazuril, a conventional anticoccidial drug, and Allium sativum, Houttuynia cordata and Portulaca oleracea were assessed. Forty 45-day-old lambs naturally infected with Eimeria spp. were selected and randomly divided into five groups. The results showed that the sheep treated for coccidiosis had considerably decreased average daily gain (ADG) during both administration and withdrawal of the drug compared to the control group. Furthermore, at days 14, 21, 28 and 35, respectively, the three herbs and diclazuril had similar anticoccidial effects, with lower oocysts per gram (OPG) than the control group. On day 78, OPG in the three herbal groups was significantly lower than in the diclazuril group. In addition, the abundance and composition of the gut microbiota were changed in sheep treated with the three herbs and diclazuril compared to the untreated sheep. Moreover, some intestinal microorganisms have a correlation with OPG and ADG when using Spearman correlation analysis. In summary, our results suggest that all three herbs produce anticoccidial effects similar to diclazuril and modulate the balance of gut microbiota in growing lambs.

Over the past few decades, among equine parasitoses caused by gastrointestinal nematodes, habronematidosis has been discontinuously studied worldwide. Habronematidosis is a parasitic disease distributed all over the world. It is caused by Habronema microstoma, Habronema muscae, and Draschia megastoma (Spirurida, Habronematidae), and it is maintained in the environment by muscid flies which act as intermediate hosts. At larval and adult stages these species live in the stomach of domestic and wild equids. However, the larvae can also be found on the skin, causing lesions known as “summer sores”, and occasionally on other body areas, such as ocular and genital mucosa (muco-cutaneous habronematidosis) and lung, liver, brain parenchyma. Depending on the parasite's developmental stage and localization site, clinical signs vary from mild to severe. Habronematidosis is responsible for significant economic losses, mostly when sport horses are affected, because their performances are impaired and the infection can be unaesthetic. We used three on-line databases for searching the articles on habronematidosis according to the selected inclusion criteria; a total of 250 contributions, published between 1911 and 2020 were analyzed. This review summarizes the key features of pathogenesis, epizootiology, diagnosis, treatment, and control of habronematidosis, and highlights the current knownledge about its geographical distribution and spread. Anthelmintic drugs are the most widely-used tools against habronematidosis; given the known risk of anthelmintic resistance in some nematodes affecting horses, this aspect should also be explored for habronematidosis. Dedicated research is essential to fill gaps of knowledge and increase the understanding of habronematidosis to maximize equine health, reduce economic losses and sanitary impact associated with this parasitic infection.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal helminthic infections in dairy animals of internal drainage dry zone of Rajasthan, India. A total of 609 fecal samples were examined from September 2016 to August 2017. Out of them, 295 (Buffalo: 111, Cattle:184) were found positive with an overall prevalence of 48.44% for different gastrointestinal helminthic infections. The study revealed strongyles as the most dominant infection (44.99%) followed by Strongyloides sp. (6.90%). Seasonal dynamics revealed a highly significant statistical seasonal variation (p

Copyright of Archives of Veterinary Medicine / Arhiv Veterinarske Medicine is the property of Scientific Veterinary Institute Novi Sad and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus mastitis in buffaloes was fundamentally aimed in the current work using culturing procedures and PCR Assay. Field therapeutic trial with follow-up for 10 consecutive weeks post therapy was carried out with monitoring of shedding pattern of Staphylococcus aureus. Three hundred and eighty buffaloes of different lactation seasons were examined in Sohag Governorate. Prevalence of clinically and subclinically infected buffaloes was 10.52% and 26.84%, respectively. Epizootiologically, prevalence of clinically and subclinically infected animals with mastitis in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th lactation seasons was 12.00% and 32.00%; 20.83% and 41.67%; and 22.73% and 36.36%, respectively. Thereafter the trend of mastitis was significantly declined by increasing the numbers of lactation season. Over the 9th lactation season, there were no signs of mastitis. Bacteriologically, Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant pathogen followed by Streptococcus agalactiae and Escherichia coli. Staphylococcus aureus were sensitive to amoxicillin, enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin but 50 % of the tested strains were resistant to penicillin and oxytetracycline. A Field therapeutic trial with synulox (Amoxicillin plus Clavulanic acid) with anti-inflammatory and supportive drugs was carried out in 10 diseased buffaloes (3 clinical and 7 subclinical). Three clinical and three subclinical forms were culled due to failure of therapy. Four cases of subclinical mastitis were apparently successfully treated. Shedding pattern of Staphylococcus aureus during the therapeutic period was weekly monitored and revealed that shedding was intermittent. In conclusion, Staphylococcus aureus is an outstanding notoriousness mastitogen and its early detection considers a crucial goal in control. PCR is a valuable test for detection of mastitogens than culture techniques but it is still precious practically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This epizootiological study was carried out to investigate the occurrence of canine babesiosis in southwestern Slovakia. The study focused on the proportion of the species of ticks serving as babesia vectors of babesiosis in the ticks collected from selected locations close to Komárno, in southwestern Slovakia. Additionally, observations were made on the health and overall clinical signs in dogs suspected of having babesiosis. In 2014 we collected ticks from vegetation by the drag cloth (flagging) method and also directly from dogs. A totally of 622 ticks were collected: 491 Dermacentor reticulatus and 131 Ix-odes ricinus. Representative samples of ticks (n = 103) were examined by the molecular method and the presence of Babesia spp. DNA was identified in 12.5 % of the Ixodes ricinus ticks collected by flagging and in 9.5 % of the Ixodes ricinus ticks collected from the dogs. Babesia canis (KU681325) with 90 bp sequence, 100 % identical with Babesia canis isolates from dogs for example from: Turkey (KF499115), Rumania (HQ662634), Croatia (FJ209025), Poland (EU622792) and Russia (AY962186), was confirmed after sequencing in one Ixodes ricinus female obtained from a dog. This was the first confirmation of the occurrence of B. canis in Ixodes ricinus ticks in Slovakia. In 2.2 % of the Dermacentor reticulatus ticks obtained from vegetation by flagging, we were able to diagnose the DNA of Babesia canis. In 4.8 % of the Dermacentor reticulatus ticks collected from dogs, the presence of Babesia spp. was confirmed. Thirty three dogs with suspicion of babesiosis were observed in an ambulance by their health and clinical signs. The loss of appetite was observed in 22 patients (66.7 %), apathy in 19 cases (57.6 %), and fever in 19 cases. Closer specification indicating babesiosis was finding engorged ticks on the dog bodies which occurred in 21 cases (63.6 %), haematuria in 8 cases (24.2 %), anaemia in 4 cases (12.1 %), and tremor in 6 cases (18.2 %). Other non-specific signs, such as diarrhoea, vomitus, slowed-down movement, ataxia and lacrimation were also observed in less than 18 % of the examined dogs. On the basis of the specific clinical signs, blood was withdrawn from 33 dogs for preparation of blood smears and in 19 of them (57.6 %) babesia in erythrocytes were confirmed microscopically.

The outbreaks of viral encephalopathy and retinopathy (VER), caused by nervous necrosis virus (NNV), represent one of the main infectious threats for marine aquaculture worldwide. Since the first description of the disease at the end of the 1980s, a considerable amount of research has gone into understanding the mechanisms involved in fish infection, developing reliable diagnostic methods, and control measures, and several comprehensive reviews have been published to date. This review focuses on host−virus interaction and epidemiological aspects, comprising viral distribution and transmission as well as the continuously increasing host range (177 susceptible marine species and epizootic outbreaks reported in 62 of them), with special emphasis on genotypes and the effect of global warming on NNV infection, but also including the latest findings in the NNV life cycle and virulence as well as diagnostic methods and VER disease control.

During 2017, 784 insect samples were examined and the presence of Culicoides spp. was established in 25.51% of samples. Earlier research has found that the dominant population of Culicoides spp in Serbia belongs to Obsoletus complexes, established in 60.05% of analyzed samples. Out of the entire insect population analyzed, males were found in 22.84%, unpigmented (young) females in 67.97%, females who took blood in 7.39%, whereas 1.35% were gravid females. Culicoides spp. from the Pulicaris complex was established in 38.85% of examined samples. Males were found in 18.91%, unpigmented (young) females in 71.72%, females who took blood in 9.09%, and 1.11% were gravid females. Other types of culicoids have been established in less than 10% of the examined samples. During examination, the most prevalent species were Culicoides obsoletus, C. picturalis, C. lupicaris, C. scoticus and C. fascipennis.

After the first African swine fever (ASF) outbreak occurred in Brazil in 1978, an official laboratory for ASF diagnosis (ASFDL) was established. The current work reviews the efforts of the laboratory team to define an ASF diagnosis during the emergency phase of the ASF Eradication Program. From June to December 1978, 3,803 samples of pig tissue, blood and serum were analyzed. ASFDL first isolated the ASF virus (ASFV) from pig tissue samples from the Teresópolis municipality in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro. During the first two months, ASFV was isolated from 130 of 320 (40.62%) pig samples analyzed by haemadsorption (HAD), indicating that the outbreak had reached 96 of 214 municipalities surveyed throughout the country in that period. The distribution of positive ASFV samples indicated the potential route of virus dispersal. Because of the rapidity of the actions implemented against ASF, the number of ASFV positive samples decreased from 48.36% in June to 33.53% in July, and then to 0% in August 1978. In parallel, ASFV antibody detection increased from 17.89% in June to 52.04% in August 1978. In the state of Paraná, a comparison of ASFV isolates with descriptions of the disease, and a rapid decrease in mortality rates suggested the occurrence of a low or moderate virulence ASFV strain. Establishment of ASFDL was crucial for the program, which eradicated ASFV from the country within six years of the first outbreak. Advances in cellular and molecular biology corroborated pioneer studies regarding ASFV virulence, and have highlighted the importance of establishing and maintaining secure measures to prevent ASFV reintroduction to the country. Information on virulence heterogeneity in ASFV populations during outbreaks provided a paramount tool for the adoption of eradication best practices

Respiratory capillariasis is a disease of domestic and wild carnivores as well as of people, caused by nematode Eucoleus aerophilus syn. Capillaria aerophila, which lives as a parasite in mucosa of trachea, bronchi and bronchioles, rarely in nasal and frontal sinuses of the host. This parasite has either direct or indirect development cycle which includes optional transition hosts - earthworms. Clinical picture is manifested in the form of a very severe respiratory disease, which is accompanied by an increased bronchovesicular sound, sneezing, gasping and chronic dry cough. Despite the fact that this nematode is widespread in all the parts of the world, that it causes a disease followed by a severe clinical picture and has a zoonotic potential as well, it has been insufficiently investigated and moreover from clinical and parasitological aspect it has not been given enough attention so far. The reason for this is the fact that C. aerophila had been considered to be a strain of very low level of pathogenicity causing only sporadic respiratory infections in dogs and cats. The interest of scientific community for this parasitosis increased the moment when its causative agent spread outside the endemic areas. From the standpoint of monitoring and health protection of both carnivores and peorle, knowledge of basic epizootiological and epidemiological characteristics of these nematodes is of crucial importance, having in mind that its prevalence has significantly increased in dogs and cats in the last ten years, both in Europe and worldwide.

Four species of porcine circoviruses (PCV1-4) have been reported to circulate in Chinese domestic pigs, while the epizootiology of these viruses in free-ranging wild boars in China remains unknown. In this study, tissue and serum samples collected from diseased or apparently healthy wild boars between 2018 and 2020 in 19 regions of China were tested for the prevalence of PCV1-4 infections. Positive rates of PCV1, PCV2, and PCV3 DNA in the tissue samples of Chinese wild boars were 1.6% (4/247), 58.3% (144/247), and 10.9% (27/247) respectively, with none positive for PCV4. Sequence analysis of viral genome showed that the four PCV1 strains distributed in Hunan and Inner Mongolia shared 97.5%-99.6% sequence identity with global distributed reference strains. Comparison of the ORF2 gene sequences showed that 80 PCV2 strains widely distributed in 18 regions shared 79.5%-100% sequence identity with reference strains from domestic pigs and wild boars, and were grouped into PCV2a (7), PCV2b (31) and PCV2d (42). For PCV3, 17 sequenced strains shared 97.2%-100% nucleotide identity at the genomic level and could be divided into PCV3a (3), PCV3b (2) and PCV3c (12) based on the phylogeny of ORF2 gene sequences. Serological data revealed antibody positive rates against PCV1 and PCV2 of 11.4% (19/167) and 53.9% (90/167) respectively. The data obtained in this study improved our understanding about the epidemiological situations of PCVs infection in free-ranging wild boars in China and will be valuable for the prevention and control of diseases caused by PCVs infection., (Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Publishing services by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal helminthic infections in dairy animals of internal drainage dry zone of Rajasthan, India. A total of 609 fecal samples were examined from September 2016 to August 2017. Out of them, 295 (Buffalo: 111, Cattle:184) were found positive with an overall prevalence of 48.44% for different gastrointestinal helminthic infections. The study revealed strongyles as the most dominant infection (44.99%) followed by Strongyloides sp. (6.90%). Seasonal dynamics revealed a highly significant statistical seasonal variation (p<0.05) with maximum infection in rainy season (60.10%) whereas, a non-significant statistical difference in district wise prevalence was reported with the highest prevalence rate in Nagaur district (54.97%). Multivariate binary logistic regression model revealed positive association of summer (B=0.83) and rainy seasons (B=1.39) when compared to winter season whereas, association was reported positive in Nagaur (B=0.27) and negative in Jhunjhunu (B= - 1.42) and Churu (B= - 0.15) districts when compared to Sikar district. Similarly, a negative association in crossbred (B= - 0.75) and buffaloes (B= - 0.53) as compared to native animals was reported in the study. Quantitative analysis presented a mild to moderate gastrointestinal parasitic infection in terms of EPG (eggs per gram of feces) ranged from 100 - 400 (228.57±42.06) and 100 - 300 (166.67±33.33) for stongyles and Strongyloides sp. respectively. No fluke infection was reported in the dairy animals of the study area during the study period. Coproculture examination exhibited Haemonchus as the most predominant nematode genus, followed by Oesophagostomum sp., Strongyloides sp., Trichostrongylus sp. and Cooperia sp. in the decreasing order of prevalence. The current investigation may be used to formulate effective control strategies against gastrointestinal helminthic infections in the dairy animals of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beauveria bassiana (Bb) strain GHA is a major component of an areawide pest management program for coffee berry borer (CBB) in Hawai’i. Recent studies have aimed to provide comprehensive assessments of the efficacy of the Bb-spray component of these programs for economic analyses; however, evaluations have been complicated by activity of naturally-occurring strains of this pathogen infecting CBB. Investigations were therefore undertaken to characterize these strains, assess their natural epizootic potential, and account for their contribution to CBB population suppression. A number of field sites were encountered with no history of significant use of commercial Bb-based biopesticides and where strain GHA was not detectable. Sampling of these sites was conducted early in the coffee season. Greatest activity of wild-type Bb strains was observed on high-elevation farms (>500 m), where 24–42% of foundress beetles in green coffee berries were infected. In contrast, infection rates did not exceed 4% on farms at low elevations (<300 m). Rates of 23–29% infection, comparable to those on high-elevation farms, were recorded in a stand of feral coffee at 293 m elevation, but the coffee was completely shaded and ventilation restricted by a dense overstory of vegetation. Despite high activity of naturally-occurring Bb at some sites (primarily sites at high elevations with humid, moderate-temperature environments and dense pest populations), these fungi did not prevent CBB from exceeding the economic threshold for commercial spray applications. Nevertheless, the high natural epizootic potential of these fungal strains suggests strong potential for development as microbial biocontrol agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multi-year study was conducted to examine the natural ecology of the microsporidium Amblyospora khaliulini and more fully characterize parasite development and histopathology in all stages of its primary mosquito host, Aedes communis and intermediate copepod host, Acanthocyclops vernalis with redescription of the species. A. khaliulini exhibits polymorphic development, produces three morphologically and functionally distinct spores, and is both horizontally and vertically transmitted. Development in A. vernalis is restricted to females, occurs within the ovaries and results in death of the host. Development is haplophasic with division by binary and multiple fission producing rosette-shaped sporogonial plasmodia and conical uninucleate spores that are orally infectious to Ae. communis larvae. Both sexes are equally susceptible and infections are confined to testes in males and ovaries in females. Initial stages of development include uninucleate schizonts that undergo karyokinesis forming diplokaryotic meronts that divide repeatedly by binary fission. Sporogony occurs in both host sexes, but sporogenesis does not progress normally in adult males and elliptical, thin walled binucleate spores that function in vertical transmission of the microsporidium via infection of the ovaries and eggs are formed in adult females only. Development of vertically acquired infections in larval Ae. communis hosts occurs within fat body tissue, leads to the production of meiospores in male hosts only and results in death during the 4th larval stadium. Initial development is characterized by merogonial multiplication of diplokarya by synchronous binary division producing additional diplokarya. The cessation of merogony and the onset of sporogony are characterized by the simultaneous secretion of a sporophorous vesicle and meiotic division of diplokarya resulting in the formation of octonucleate sporonts that undergo cytokinesis and sporogenesis to form eight uninucleate, broadly ovoid meiospores enclosed within a sporophorous vesicle. The natural prevalence of patent vertically acquired fat body infections in field populations of Ae. communis ranged from 1.6% to 3.6%. Yearly infection rates in A. vernalis copepods ranged from 57.1% to 15.0%. Prevalence rates of horizontally acquired infections in emerging adult Ae. communis ranged from 69.0% to 11.9% in males and 50.0% to 16.4% in females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archives of Veterinary Medicine / Arhiv Veterinarske Medicine is the property of Scientific Veterinary Institute Novi Sad and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Shellfish are known as a potential source of Toxoplasma gondii (responsible for toxoplasmosis), and Cryptosporidium parvum, which is one of the major causes of gastroenteritis in the world. Here we performed a comprehensive qPCR-based monthly survey for T. gondii and C. parvum during 2016 and 2017 in oysters (Crassostrea virginica) (n = 1440) from all six sites along the coast of Maine (USA). Pooled samples (mantle, gills, and rectum) from individual oysters were used for DNA extraction and qPCR. Our study resulted in detections of qPCR positives oysters for T. gondii and C. parvum at each of the six sites sampled (in 31% and 10% of total oysters, respectively). The prevalence of T. gondii was low in 2016, and in September 2017 several sites peaked in prevalence with 100% of the samples testing positive. The prevalence of C. parvum was very low except in one estuarine location (Jack’s Point) in June 2016 (58%), and in October of 2016, when both prevalence and density of C. parvum at most of the sampling sites were among the highest values detected. Statistical analysis of environmental data did not identify clear drivers of retention, but there were some notable statistically significant patterns including current direction and nitrate along with the T. gondii prevalence. The major C. parvum retention event (in October 2016) corresponded with the month of highest dissolved oxygen measurements as well as a shift in the current direction revealed by nearby instrumentation. This study may guide future research to locate any contributing parasite reservoirs and evaluate the potential risk to human consumption.

Aims We report the first occurrence of an epizootic of the ascomycete fungus, Isaria tenuipes (teleomorph Cordyceps takaomontana), on the ocola skipper Panoquina ocola (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae), an insect pest affecting rice in Brazil. Methods and Results Field surveys in flooded rice fields in the state of Goiás in Brazil were conducted, and a fungal pathogen of a caterpillar pest ( P. ocola) was serendipitously found. This fungus inflicted high infection levels (average 86·2%) mainly to the pupal stage during warm, humid growing conditions. Typically, mycosed pupal cadavers produced milky-white to pale yellow synnemata bearing an average of 1·1 ± 0·2 × 109 conidia per cadaver. Based on phylogenetic analysis using beta-tubulin gene sequences, we confirmed that all 12 isolates obtained from field-mummified pupae were identifiable as I. tenuipes. Conclusions Our data expand our knowledge on the host and geographical ranges of this mycopathogen and underscore its epizootic potential to affect a lepidopterous insect pest on rice in Brazil. This finding may facilitate the exploitation of this fungus as a mycoinsecticide. Significance and Impact of the Study Isaria tenuipes may be used as an effective and environmentally friendly bioinsecticide against agricultural caterpillar pests due to its epizootic potential, as well as explored for medicinal purposes by pharmaceutical industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gill disease (GD) in farmed Atlantic salmon may be due to the impact of several agents that may interact. We followed the infections of four gill disease-associated agents during the first year of production in six farms; examining the correlation between their densities in the gills. These farms were located in an area with high risk of developing gill disease, and three of the farms were diagnosed with GD in the autumn. In the present study we show temporal changes in pathogens in salmon from all 6 farms, revealing recurring infection patterns by Desmozoon lepeophtherii and Candidatus Branchiomonas cysticola (C. B. cysticola), and large variation without an apparent pattern in densities of Ichthyobodo salmonis . Infections with the microsporidian D. lepeophtherii show a clear seasonal pattern, and high densities are associated with GD. Ca. B. cysticola appears not to be directly connected to the disease, albeit densities of this bacterium may coincide with high D. lepeophtherii densities. Amoebae ( Paramoeba spp.) were only sporadically detected with low densities. Salmon with low condition had elevated densities of D. lepeophtherii and Ichthyobodo spp., while no such pattern was seen for the other pathogens. Challenge studies are needed to substantiate the role of D. lepeophtherii in GD, but realistic challenge model (i.e. bath) has so far not been developed. Based on the present molecular screening, we suggest that D. lepeophtherii infections both may be responsible for GD, and cause runting in farmed salmon populations. Statement of relevance This is an epizootiological study of Atlantic salmon and gill diseases. There is much known about pathogen in connection with GD outbreak, less is known about the occurrence of potential pathogen in healthy farmed salmon or how such infections develop over time. High densities of the microsporidian parasite Paranucleospora theridion in the gills coincide with gill disease, making P. theridion a possible primary source to this condition. Densities of Paranucleospora theridion , Candidatus Branchiomonas cysticola and Ichthyobodo salmonis may be correlated in farmed salmon populations with gill disease. P.theridion and I. salmonis densities are elevated in Atlantic salmon with low condition (‘runts’). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global eradication of rinderpest in 2010 ranked as the second in history after the eradication of smallpox in humans in 1980. Rinderpest (in recent history included also among biological weapons of mass destruction) recurred throughout history causing hundreds of millions of animal deaths. It was recorded in 114 countries of all continents. After the World War II it was still reported from 66 countries in Africa and Asia. After all necessary knowledge about rinderpest virus and its circulation became available, along with excellent vaccine as well as enough experience with anti-rinderpest measures, the global eradication programme was launched in 1986 after a long preparatory period. It was composed of three new regional projects including all national anti-rinderpest programmes. The main method consisted in active search, isolation and stamping out of all outbreaks combined with mass prophylactic vaccinations and followed by years-long risk-based surveillance. The transfer of research results into practical reality required an extraordinary complex of a highly demanding system of managerial measures. It included analyses of rinderpest occurrence, identification of objectives/ deadlines and control methods, planning, ensuring necessary manpower, material and funds, organizing and implementation of coordinating programmes etc. This complex was represented by a managerial pyramid structure of inter-connected components having the basis at rinderpest affected localities and countries and its top at the Animal Health Service, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations as executive agency responsible for technical assistance and global leadership/coordination.

Populations of wildfowl have been categorised taxonomically into five families: Phasianidae, Tetraonidae, Scolopacidae, Otidae and Anatidae. They are of particular importance for agriculture, forestry and the game economy, and certain species also have an important role in the epizootiology of parasitic infections in domestic fowl and fish. That is why it is extremely important for the process of promoting the system of animal health protection to have knowledge regarding the etiology and epizootiology of parasitic infections in wildfowl. Diseases in wildfowl caused by protozoa are histomoniasis, trichomoniasis, malaria, coccidiosis, cryptosporidiosis, sarcocystosis, toxoplasmosis, and giardiasis. The most represented helminthiases in wildfowl are singamosis, capillariasis, trichostrongyliasis, ascaridiosis, heteraciosis, nematodosis of the glandular stomach, cestodoses and trematodoses. The most significant ectoparasites in wildfowl are mites, ticks, and fleas. The reduction of populations of certain widlfowl species in nature could present a major problem, having in mind the important role of these birds in ecosystems and biocenosis. The incidence, maintaining and spreading of parasitic infections among widlfowl are just some of the factors that affect the numbers of their populations.