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Astroviruses are non-enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses that infect mammalian and avian species. In humans, astrovirus infections are one of the most common causes of gastroenteritis in children. Infection has also been linked to serious neurological complications, especially in immunocompromised individuals. More extensive disease has also been characterized in non-human mammalian and avian species. To date, astroviruses have been detected in over 80 different avian and mammalian hosts. As the number of hosts continues to rise, the need to understand how astroviruses transmit within a given species as well as to new host species becomes increasingly important. Here, we review the current understanding of astrovirus transmission, the factors that influence viral spread, and the potential for cross-species transmission. Additionally, we highlight the current gaps in knowledge and areas of future research that will be key to understanding astrovirus transmission and zoonotic potential.

Pets play a crucial role in the development of human feelings, social life, and care. However, in the era of the prevailing global pandemic of COVID-19 disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), many questions addressing the routes of the virus spread and transmission to humans are dramatically emerging. Although cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection have been found in pets including dogs, cats, and ferrets, to date there is no strong evidence for pet-to-human transmission or sustained pet-to-pet transmission of SARS-CoV-2. However, an increasing number of studies reporting detection of SARS-CoV-2 in farmed minks raises suspicion of potential viral transmission from these animals to humans. Furthermore, due to the high susceptibility of cats, ferrets, minks and hamsters to COVID-19 infection under natural and/or experimental conditions, these animals have been extensively explored as animal models to study the SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and transmission. In this review, we present the latest reports focusing on SARS-CoV-2 detection, isolation, and characterization in pets. Moreover, based on the current literature, we document studies aiming to broaden the knowledge about pathogenicity and transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2, and the development of viral therapeutics, drugs and vaccines. Lastly, considering the high rate of SARS-CoV-2 evolution and replication, we also suggest routes of protection against the virus.

Background. Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) or prion diseases are a unique group of neurodegenerative diseases of animals and humans, which always have a fatal outcome and are transmissible among animals of the same or different species. Scope and Approach. The aim of this work is to review some recent data about animal TSEs, with the emphasis on their causative agents and zoonotic potential, and to discuss why the surveillance and control measures over animal TSEs should remain in force. Key Findings and Conclusions. We still have incomplete knowledge of prions and prion diseases. Scrapie has been present for a very long time and controlled with varied success. Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) emerged unnoticed, and spread within a few years to epidemic proportions, entailing enormous economic consequences and public concerns. Currently, the classical BSE epidemic is under control, but atypical cases do, and probably will, persist in bovine populations. The Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) of the cervids has been spreading in North America and has recently been detected in Europe. Preventive measures for the control of classical BSE remain in force, including the feed ban and removal of specified risk materials. However, active BSE surveillance has considerably decreased. In the absence of such preventive and control measures, atypical BSE cases in healthy slaughtered bovines might persist in the human food chain, and BSE prions might resurface. Moreover, other prion strains might emerge and spread undetected if the appropriate preventive and surveillance measures were to cease, leaving behind inestimable consequences.

Objectives: Non-tuberculous mycobacteria are opportunistic pathogens that cause disease mainly in immunocompromised hosts. The present study assessed the prevalence of antibiotic resistance among such mycobacteria from domestic and wild animals in Croatia sampled during several years within a national surveillance program., Methods: A total of 44 isolates belonging to nine slow-growing species were genotyped and analyzed for susceptibility to 13 antimicrobials often used to treat non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections in humans., Results: Most prevalent resistance was to moxifloxacin (77.3%), doxycycline (76.9%), and rifampicin (76.9%), followed by ciprofloxacin (65.4%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (65.4%), and linezolid (61.4%). Few isolates were resistant to rifabutin (7.7%) or amikacin (6.8%). None of the isolates was resistant to clarithromycin. Nearly all isolates (86.4%) were resistant to multiple antibiotics., Conclusion: Our findings suggest substantial risk that human populations may experience zoonotic infections with non-tuberculous mycobacteria that will be difficult to treat using the current generation of antibiotics. Future work should clarify how resistance emerges in wild populations of non-tuberculous mycobacteria., (Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Due to the close bond between humans and companion animals, a thorough understanding of the diversity of Cryptosporidium species and Giardia assemblages in cats and dogs is essential to determine the potential zoonotic risks. Analysis of molecular studies shows that C. felis and C. canis are the main species infecting cats and dogs, respectively. These species are largely host-specific, as despite intense association with humans, prevalence of C. felis and C. canis in humans is low and predominantly in immunocompromised individuals and low-income countries. There have been reports of C. parvum in cats and dogs and two reports of C. hominis in dogs. In most studies conducted to date, however, the prevalence of zoonotic species was low and may be associated with coprophagy and or/spillback, but this remains to be determined. Results of subtyping studies suggest that for C. felis and C. canis , some zoonotic transmission may occur but host-adapted subtypes also exist. Giardia duodenalis assemblages C and D are commonly reported in dogs, with assemblages F and A most common in cats. Assemblages C, D and F are largely host-specific as there are only a handful of reports of them in humans. Reports of assemblage A and B in cats and dogs may be due to coprophagy or spillback from owners. Despite the extent of pet ownership and the close contact between humans and companion animals worldwide, the overall risk of zoonotic transmission from cats and dogs to humans is uncertain but thought to be low due to C. canis , C. felis and G. duodenalis assemblages C, D and F being predominantly host-specific, the relatively low prevalence of C. parvum (and C. hominis ) in cats and dogs (which may be due to mechanical carriage), and low oo/cyst shedding. Carefully designed epidemiological studies of cats and dogs and their owners using subtyping tools are essential to better quantify the extent of spillover and spillback of Cryptosporidium and Giardia between pets and their owners., 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. Given their role as Guest Editor, Amanda D. Barbosa had no involvement in the peer review of this article and has no access to information regarding its peer review. Full responsibility for the editorial process for this article was delegated to Dr Frank Katzer (Co-Editor) and Professor Aneta Kostadinova (Editor-in-Chief)., (© 2023 Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Giardia duodenalis is one of the major causes of diarrhea among humans, especially in young children. Statistical analysis revealed that the pooled prevalence of G. duodenalis in humans, dogs, and cats was 9.72% (10,921/112383), 15.60% (7510/48140), and 14.53% (1125/7740), respectively. Unquestionably, the canine-specific assemblages C and D and the feline-specific assemblage F were the dominant genotypes in dogs and cats, respectively. Additionally, the prevalence of zoonotic G. duodenalis assemblages (A and B) in dogs and cats was 23.07% (875/3792) and 41.42% (169/408), respectively, implying that the potential transmission of G. duodenalis from dogs and cats to human infection cannot be ignored. The highest frequency of potentially zoonotic assemblages was found among working dogs (3.55%, 25/705) and the 1-5 age group (22.92%, 11/48). In summary, dogs and cats have a significant role in the zoonotic transmission of G. duodenalis due to their close contact with humans and the higher frequency presence of zoonotic assemblages. Further studies are necessary to explore the presence of G. duodenalis among humans and animals and in environmental samples. Researchers should adopt a one-health approach to gain a deeper understanding of G. duodenalis in dogs and cats and potential transmission routes to humans., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (© 2023 The Authors.)

Bats are natural reservoirs for many viruses, including several that are zoonotic. Two unusual H17N10 and H18N11 influenza viruses have been found in New World bats. Although neither of these viruses have been isolated, infectious clone technology has permitted significant progress to understand their biology, which include unique features compared to all other known influenza A viruses. In addition, an H9N2-like influenza A virus was isolated from Old World bats and it shows similar characteristics of normal influenza A viruses. In this review, current status and perspective on influenza A viruses identified in bats is reviewed and discussed.

We genetically characterized highly pathogenic avian influenza virus A(H5N6) clade 2.3.4.4b isolates found in Germany in 2017-2018 and assessed pathogenicity of representative H5N5 and H5N6 viruses in ferrets. These viruses had low pathogenicity; however, continued characterization of related isolates is warranted because of their high potential for reassortment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blastocystis is a common enteric protist that colonizes humans and a wide range of animals. Although some studies have reported incidences of Blastocystis in humans and animals in China, there is no information available on the prevalence of Blastocystis in giant pandas, red pandas, or bird species. The aims of the present study were to determine the prevalence, subtype distribution, and genetic characterizations of Blastocystis in these animals in a captive situation in southwestern China, as well as assess the zoonotic potential of Blastocystis isolates. A total of 168 fecal specimens, including 81 from giant pandas, 23 from red pandas, 38 from black swans, 11 from ruddy shelducks, and 15 from green peafowl were collected at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Sichuan province. The overall minimum prevalence of Blastocystis was 11.3% (19/168) based on PCR amplification of the barcode region of the SSU rRNA gene. The highest prevalence of Blastocystis was observed in ruddy shelduck (18.2%) and the lowest was found in green peafowl (6.7%). The prevalence of Blastocystis in giant pandas >5.5 years of age was higher than that in younger giant pandas. Two potentially zoonotic subtypes (ST1 and ST8) were identified, and ST1 (n = 12) was found to be more prevalent than ST8 (n = 7). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the prevalence and subtypes of Blastocystis in giant pandas, red pandas, and bird species in China. The findings of this study will improve our understanding of the genetic diversity and public health potential of Blastocystis. Image 1 • This is the first report of Blastocystis in giant pandas, red pandas, and various bird species in China. • The overall minimum prevalence of Blastocystis was 11.3%. • Two zoonotic subtypes (ST1 and ST8) were identified. • This study will enrich the epidemiological data of Blastocystis infection in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Endoparasitic infections represent relevant causes of respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases in cats. The aim of the study was to investigate the occurrence of endoparasites in Swiss cats in order to evaluate the risk of onset of parasitic diseases and potential correlated zoonoses. Therefore 664 faecal samples from privately owned (n = 299), shelter (n = 197) and stray (n = 168) cats were investigated by sedimentation-flotation and 468 samples additionally by the Baermann technique. Overall, 77.4% (n = 130), 21.8% (n = 43) and 11.7% (n = 35) of stray, shelter and privately owned cats, respectively, were positive, with significant differences between the groups. Among infected cats, 58.7% (n = 122) harboured a single, 30.8% (n = 64) two and 10.6% (n = 22) more than two parasite species. Toxocara cati, with an infection rate of 18.5% (n = 123), was the most frequently detected parasite. The rates for other intestinal parasites were: Taenia sp. 11.1% (n = 74), Isospora sp. 8.1% (n = 54), Capillaria sp. 4.7% (n = 31), hookworms 1.1% (n = 7), Giardia duodenalis 0.8% (n = 5), Dipylidium caninum 0.6% (n = 4), Toxoplasma gondii 0.6% (n = 4), Hammondia hammondi 0.5% (n = 3), Sarcocystis sp. 0.2% (n = 1) and Diphyllobothrium latum 0.2% (n = 1). First-stage larvae of the lungworm Aelurostrongylus abstrusus were found in 2.3% (n = 15) of all samples. The morphological identification of Taenia sp., T. gondii, H. hammondi and A. abstrusus was confirmed by molecular techniques. Overall, cats younger than one year and intact animals were more frequently infected with parasites than older and neutered animals. The observed infection rates were comparable to those from other European studies, except for Taenia sp. showing a significantly higher occurrence. This implicates that there is a persistent risk of environmental contamination with parasitic stages especially by stray cats, and a risk of infection for cat owners with potential zoonotic pathogens, emphasizing the need for appropriate parasite control measures. Highlights • 31% of 664 Swiss cats were infected by endoparasites, stray cats more frequently than shelter and privately owned cats • Helminths: Toxocara cati 18.5%, Taenia sp. 11.1%, Aelurostrongylus abstrusus 2.3% • Protozoa: Isospora sp. 8.1%, Giardia sp. 0.8%, Toxoplasma gondii 0.6% • Cats < one year and intact animals were more frequently infected with parasites • Parasite control measures are needed to reduce environmental contamination by cats [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Cattle and Pigs can be an important source of zoonotic species or genotypes of Enterocytozoon bieneusi. • The presens of two known genotypes in cattle – F and I. • A description of the 3 novel genotypes of E. bieneus in the pigs in this study represents significant progress in recognizing the genetic diversity of this organism. Abstract Enterocytozoon bieneusi is characterized as a ubiquitous intestinal parasite with a wide genetic diversity, and it is capable of infecting a diverse range of hosts all around the world. Since information about the genotype diversity of E. bieneusi in pigs, calves, sheep and goats in Slovakia is very limited, we examined three farms where we mapped the occurrence of E. bieneusi and its genotypes, thus contributing to the information about geographic diversity of this pathogen worldwide. In this study we used PCR methods to examine 253 fecal samples from pigs, calves, sheep and goats with suspected microsporidiosis. Real time PCR was used to identify genotypes by amplification of SSU region and ITS region. After analysis we detected presence of E. bieneusi (7) and Microsporidia sp. (6) in 13 samples. The analysis of nucleotide sequences of ITS region of E. bieneusi shows, that the positive isolates belonged to 5 genotypes, including two known genotypes (I, F) and three new genotypes diagnosed in pigs, named SVK-S1, SVK-S2 and SVK-S3. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these novel genotypes identified in present study belong to group 1, which previously has been described as a zoonotic group. Genotype I was detected in two calves and genotype F was detected in two pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melanoides tuberculata (Müller, 1774), a mollusc native to the Afrotropical and Palearctic regions, has established populations in a number of localities in the Neotropical region. This non-native species was introduced to Brazil prior to 1970, but this record was only reported in the literature in 1986, and its invaded range has continued to expand. In this work, based on scientific literature and specimens deposited in biological collections, we provide an update on the distribution of M. tuberculata in Brazilian waters. Our results show that M. tuberculata currently occurs in 351 municipalities, 20 Brazilian States and the Federal District. We also provide a brief discussion about its potential as a vector for zoonotic diseases, and possible pathways for its introduction in Brazilian waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of novel arboviruses of zoonotic potential in South Africa (SA) threatens human health and animal welfare, and affects economic growth and development. These viruses cause severe infections in animals and humans, including neurological diseases, such as encephalitis, resulting in high morbidities, mortalities and economic losses. With increasing reports of Middelburg, Shuni, Sindbis, West Nile and Wesselsbron virus infections in animals and humans in SA, this article reviews and discusses known and currently emerging arboviruses in the country. These reports underscore the need for increased surveillance, vector control management, public health preparedness, focused research, community awareness programs, and the development of rapid and sensitive diagnostic approaches. Furthermore, appropriate medical personnel training and strengthening initiatives for a one-health approach are required to understand and mitigate the emerging arboviral threat to public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of human prion diseases are sporadic, but acquired disease can occur, as seen with variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (vCJD) following consumption of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). With increasing rates of cervid chronic wasting disease (CWD), there is concern that a new form of human prion disease may arise. Currently, there is no evidence of transmission of CWD to humans, suggesting the presence of a strong species barrier; however, in vitro and in vivo studies on the zoonotic potential of CWD have yielded mixed results. The emergence of different CWD strains is also concerning, as different strains can have different abilities to cross species barriers. Given that venison consumption is common in areas where CWD rates are on the rise, increased rates of human exposure are inevitable. If CWD was to infect humans, it is unclear how it would present clinically; in vCJD, it was strain-typing of vCJD prions that proved the causal link to BSE. Therefore, the best way to screen for CWD in humans is to have thorough strain-typing of harvested cervids and human CJD cases so that we will be in a position to detect atypical strains or strain shifts within the human CJD population.

Cryptosporidium species are ubiquitous enteric protozoan pathogens of vertebrates distributed worldwide. The purpose of this study was to gain insight into the zoonotic potential and genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium spp. in Bactrian camels in Xinjiang, northwestern China. A total of 476 fecal samples were collected from 16 collection sites in Xinjiang and screened for Cryptosporidium by PCR. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium was 7.6% (36/476). Six Cryptosporidium species, C. andersoni (n = 24), C. parvum (n = 6), C. occultus (n = 2), C. ubiquitum (n = 2), C. hominis (n = 1), and C. bovis (n = 1), were identified based on sequence analysis of the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene. Sequence analysis of the gp60 gene identified six C. parvum isolates as subtypes, such as If-like-A15G2 (n = 5) and IIdA15G1 (n = 1), two C. ubiquitum isolates, such as subtype XIIa (n = 2), and one C. hominis isolate, such as Ixias IkA19G1 (n = 1). This is the first report of C. parvum, C. hominis, C. ubiquitum, and C. occultus in Bactrian camels in China. These results indicated that the Bactrian camel may be an important reservoir for zoonotic Cryptosporidium spp. and these infections may be a public health threat in this region.

Introduction In this study we examined 200 faecal samples from pigs and calves with suspected cryptosporidiosis were examined by the PCR methods: nested PCR for amplification of SSU region; nested PCR for amplification of GP60 region; and with restriction analysis of DNA (PCR-RFLP). The sequencing identified the following species: Cryptosporidium muris (2), Cryptosporidium andersoni (1), Cryptosporidium bovis (4), Cryptosporidium suis (2), Cryptosporidium scrofarum (10), mixed infection caused by C. scrofarum and C. muris (1),and Cryptosporidium parvum (10) genotype A subtype IIaA17G2R1. Results and conclusions The findings suggest that livestock can be an important source of zoonotic species or genotypes of Cryptosporidium , which may adversely affect the public health of human populations. This is the first time in our country that the Cryptosporidium species has been identified in livestock in Slovakia. The identification and genotyping of this pathogen in Slovakia, completes the epidemiological situation in Europe for Cryptosporidum species.

Amoebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica is an important issue in world public health because it is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Entamoeba histolytica is the only species of its genus that commonly causes mild irritation, injury, to inflammation of the walls of the colon and cecum. In some cases, parasites also invade other organs, especially the liver, lungs, kidneys, and brain. Methods: Our article search uses the help of four search engines namely Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Springer. Results: Entamoeba histolytica is not easily transmitted from animals to humans, due to the fact that this parasite rarely encysts in the intestinal lumen of animals which is an important factor in the transmission of this parasite. And conversely, subclinical amebiasis in humans acts as the dominant host for transmission of this parasite either from human to human or from human to animal.

For the past two decades, scientists from around the world, working on different aspects of foamy virus (FV) research, have gathered in different research institutions almost every two years to present their recent results in formal talks, to discuss their ongoing studies informally, and to initiate fruitful collaborations. In this report we review the 2014 anniversary conference to share the meeting summary with the virology community and hope to arouse interest by other researchers to join this exciting field. The topics covered included epidemiology, virus molecular biology, and immunology of FV infection in non-human primates, cattle, and humans with zoonotic FV infections, as well as recent findings on endogenous FVs. Several topics focused on virus replication and interactions between viral and cellular proteins. Use of FV in biomedical research was highlighted with presentations on using FV vectors for gene therapy and FV proteins as scaffold for vaccine antigen presentation. On behalf of the FV community, this report also includes a short tribute to commemorate Prof. Axel Rethwilm, one of the leading experts in the field of retrovirology and foamy viruses, who passed away 29 July 2014.

Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases have been on the rise, with a significant proportion being zoonotic. Rodents, as the natural reservoirs of numerous diverse zoonotic viruses, pose a substantial threat to human health. To investigate the diversity of known and unknown viruses harbored by rodents in Guangdong (southern province of China), we conducted a comprehensive analysis of viral genomes through metagenomic sequencing of organs from 194 rodents. Our analysis yielded 2163 viral contigs that were assigned to 25 families known to infect a wide range of hosts, including vertebrates, invertebrates, amoebas, and plants. The viral compositions vary considerably among different organs, but not in rodent species. We also assessed and prioritized zoonotic potential of those detected viruses. Ninety-two viral species that are either known to infect vertebrates and invertebrates or only vertebrates were identified, among which 21 are considered high-risk to humans. The high-risk viruses included members of the Hantavirus , Picobirnaviruses , Astroviruses and Pestivirus . The phylogenetic trees of four zoonotic viruses revealed features of novel viral genomes that seem to fit evolutionarily into a zone of viruses that potentially pose a risk of transmission to humans. Recognizing that zoonotic diseases are a One Health issue, we approached the problem of identifying the zoonotic risk from rodent-transmitted disease in the Guangdong province by performing next-generation sequencing to look for potentially zoonotic viruses in these animals., Competing Interests: We claim that there is no conflict of interest associated with the paper entitled “Evaluating the zoonotic potential of RNA viromes of rodents provides new insight into rodent-borne zoonotic pathogens in Guangdong, China”., (© 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

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Background: Feline gastrointestinal parasitism constitutes an issue of concern for veterinarians since parasites are widespread and affect animals’ health and welfare. Furthermore, some of these pathogens have zoonotic potential. To provide detailed data on the current epizootiology of feline endoparasitism, a multicentric survey was conducted during 2016. Methods: Faeces from 1150 cats were collected from all regions of Greece and examined by sedimentation and flotation techniques. Possible risk factors including gender, age, ownership status, living conditions and co-infections with other parasites were assessed using binary regression models for each one of the most prevalent parasites. Results: The overall gastrointestinal parasite prevalence in cats was 50.7%. The study population consisted of cats of both sexes, different age groups, ownership status and living conditions. A total of 10 gastrointestinal parasitic species were detected and up to 5 different parasites were isolated in the same faecal sample. The most frequently identified parasites were Toxocara cati (n = 278; 24.2%), followed by Cystoisospora spp. (n = 189; 16.4%), Ancylostomatidae (n = 186; 16.2%), Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (n = 40; 3.5%), Giardia spp. (n = 26; 2.3%), Joyeuxiella pasqualei (n = 14; 1.2%), Capillaria aerophila (n = 8; 0.7%), Dipylidium caninum (n = 3; 0.2%), Toxascaris leonina (n = 2; 0.1%) and Troglostrongylus brevior (n = 2; 0.1%). The occurrence of co-infections was 11.6%. Concerning risk factors, the likelihood of T. cati infection was higher for female cats living outdoors and for cats being infected with Cystoisospora spp. In the same frame, young, stray, male and free of A. abstrusus cats were more likely to be infected with Cystoisospora spp. Correspondingly, stray, infected with Giardia spp. but free of Cystoisospora spp. cats were more likely to be infected with Ancylostomatidae. Regarding A. abstrusus infection, a higher probability was reported for cats living outdoors and for cats free of Cystoisospora spp., while Giardia spp. infections were more common in young and co-infected with Ancylostomatidae animals. Conclusions: The prevalence of parasitized cats in Greece was high and thus consideration should be paid to control the risk factors, to implement targeted preventive antiparasitic treatments and educate cat owners on the value of prevention for the health and welfare of their cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma haemofelis is the most pathogenic feline hemoplasma species and a causative agent of infectious hemolytic anemia in cats. Current treatment protocols are effective in reducing M. haemofelis blood loads and clinical signs but consistent bacteremia clearance is rarely achieved. The aim of this study was to develop an antibiotic treatment protocol capable of clearing M. haemofelis bacteremia. Doxycycline and marbofloxacin treatment protocols were evaluated in chronically M. haemofelis infected cats in two pre-experiments and a controlled treatment study (main experiment) using five treated and four untreated cats. The blood bacterial loads in the main experiment were monitored weekly by real-time PCR for 203 days. Cats were treated with doxycycline (5 mg/kg bid orally) for 28 days. Cats that remained M. haemofelis PCR-positive or became positive again (all 5 cats in the main experiment) were switched to marbofloxacin treatment (2 mg/kg sid orally) for 14 days; then, all cats were PCR-negative. Immunosuppression after the antibiotic treatment did not lead to reactivation of bacteremia. Fine needle aspirates of different organs and bone marrow collected before and after immunosuppression were PCR-negative. Overall, 5 cats cleared bacteremia with doxycycline alone (showing lower bacterial loads at the treatment start), while 10 cats needed to be switched to marbofloxacin. Based on our results, we recommend doxycycline treatment (10 mg/kg up to 28 days) for clearance of M. haemofelis infection and monitoring bacterial loads by real-time PCR. Only if bacteremia persists or reoccurs, antibiotic treatment should be switched to marbofloxacin (2 mg/kg sid for 14 days). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptosporidium viatorum is a globally distributed pathogenic species of Cryptosporidium that has only ever been recorded from humans, until now. For the first time, we molecularly characterised a novel subtype of C. viatorum (subtype XVbA2G1) from the endemic Australian swamp rat ( Rattus lutreolus ) using the small subunit of nuclear ribosomal RNA ( SSU ) gene and then subtyped it using the 60-kilodalton glycoprotein ( gp60 ) gene. In total, faecal samples from 21 swamp rats (three were positive for C. viatorum ), three broad toothed rats ( Mastacomys fuscus ) and two bush rats ( Rattus fuscipes ) were tested for Cryptosporidium . The long-term, isolated nature of the swamp rat population in Melbourne's drinking water catchment system (where public access is prohibited), the lack of C. viatorum from other mammals and birds living within the vicinity of this system and its genetic distinctiveness in both the SSU and gp60 gene sequences from other species of Cryptosporidium collectively suggest that C. viatorum might be endemic to native rats in Australia. The current state of knowledge of epidemiological surveys of Cryptosporidium of rats and the zoonotic potential are further discussed in light of the finding of C. viatorum . Long-term studies, with the capacity to repetitively sample a variety of hosts in multiple localities, in different seasons and years, will allow for greater insight into the epidemiological patterns and zoonotic potential of rare Cryptosporidium species such as C. viatorum . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents molecular characterization of H9N2 avian influenza (AI) isolates from field outbreaks in turkeys that occurred in Poland in 2013-2014. Sequences of all gene segments of one isolate from 2013 (A/turkey/Poland/14/2013(H9N2)) and two isolates from 2014 (A/turkey/Poland/08/2014(H9N2), A/turkey/Poland/09/2014(H9N2)) were obtained and analyzed in search of the phylogenetic relationship and molecular markers of zoonotic potential or increased pathogenicity. All gene segments were shown to originate from the wild bird reservoir and the close relationship of the analyzed isolates proved the link between the outbreaks in 2013 and 2014. However, remarkable molecular differences between isolates from 2013 to 2014 were identified, including mutation in the HA cleavage site (CS) leading to conversion from the PAASNR*GLF to the PAASKR*GLF motif and truncation of the PB1-F2 protein. Additionally, T97I substitution in the PA protein in A/turkey/Poland/08/2014 was detected which can be responsible for enhanced activity of viral polymerase in mammalian cells. However, experimental infection of mice with both isolates from 2014 showed their low pathogenicity, and no statistically significant differences in virus replication were observed between the viruses. Nevertheless, these findings indicate the dynamic evolution of H9N2 in the field emphasizing the need for monitoring of the situation in terms of H9N2 AI in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blastocystis is one of the most common intestinal protists of humans and can also infect a variety of other mammals and birds. Blastocystis infections and subtype distribution in cattle have been documented, while nothing is known about those in China. Herein, a total of 526 dairy cattle from northeast China were sampled and investigated for the prevalence and genetic characteristics of Blastocystis and the potential role of bovine animals in zoonotic transmission of Blastocystis . The parasite was identified in 54 (10.3%) fecal specimens by nested PCR and DNA sequencing of the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene. Sequence analysis enabled identification of four Blastocystis subtypes (STs). Among those, subtype ST10 (75.9%, 41/54) has the highest frequency, followed by ST14 (18.5%, 10/54), ST4 (3.7%, 2/54), and ST5 (1.9%, 1/54). High prevalence and widespread distribution of ST10 and ST14 in cattle observed herein, together with analysis of their host distribution patterns in earlier studies, indicated some host-adapted potential in the two subtypes. The identification of human-pathogenic subtypes ST4 and ST5 might imply a potential zoonotic risk of cattle origin. This is the first study exploring the prevalence and genetic characteristics of Blastocystis in cattle in China. The host range of subtype ST4 was extended. The findings of this study should be helpful for a better understanding of the epidemiology and public health potential of Blastocystis . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significance of wild and zoo nonhuman primates (NHPs) as potential sources of human Enterocytozoon bieneusi infections has been increasingly appreciated, while the role of laboratory NHPs in zoonotic transmission of microsporidiosis remains elusive. In this study, the infection rate, genetic characteristic, and zoonotic potential of E. bieneusi were investigated for 205 laboratory macaques in Beijing, north China. The parasite was identified in 37 (18.0%) animals by nested PCR and sequencing of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), with an infection rate of 25.6% in Macaca fascicularis (34/133) and 4.2% in Macaca mulatta (3/72). The differences in infection rate between the two species of macaques and between young macaques aged ≤ 5 years (29.6%, 32/108) and adults aged > 5 years (5.2%, 5/97) were significant ( p < 0.01). Analysis of the ITS sequence polymorphisms recognized eight known genotypes (CC4, CM1, CM2, D, Peru8, Peru11, Type IV, and WL21) and two new genotypes (named as CMB1 and CMB2), with well-known human-pathogenic genotypes (D, Peru8, Peru11, and Type IV) most frequently detected. The rest genotypes (CC4, CM1, CM2, WL21, CMB1, and CMB2) were clustered into zoonotic group 1 in phylogenetic analysis. The high diversity and widespread presence of the human-pathogenic or group 1 E. bieneusi genotypes in laboratory NHPs, notably M. fascicularis and the young animals, suggest potential of zoonotic transmission. These findings imply that laboratory rhesus macaques could be significant reservoirs for human microsporidiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella (S.) enterica subspecies diarizonae (IIIb) serovar 61:(k):1,5,(7) ( S . IIIb 61:(k):1,5,(7)) is considered to be host adapted to sheep and is found regularly in feces of healthy carriers and of sheep with salmonellosis. A few cases of chronic proliferative rhinitis (CPR) in sheep have been described as a new disease in association with S . IIIb 61:k:1,5,(7) in the USA, in Spain and now for the first time in Switzerland. Three animals of a flock of Texel sheep suffering from chronic nasal discharge and dyspnea with subsequent death were necropsied. The pathological lesions are consistent with a severe proliferation of the nasal mucosae of the turbinates in association with severe chronic inflammation. S . IIIb 61:(k):1,5,(7) was isolated from the lesions by direct bacteriological culture and the presence of Salmonella spp. was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. The affected flock was systematically tested after the first occurrence of the disease. Clinical examination of the flock revealed approx. 20% of the adult sheep to show nasal discharge, approx. 5% having severe dyspnea and approx. 5% having chronic intermittent diarrhea. Lambs (n = 28) showed no clinical signs at all. High positivity of nasal mucosa (46%), but low prevalence in feces (6%) for S . IIIb 61:k:1,5,(7) was found. The results lead to the assumption of a direct animal to animal transmission by nasal discharge followed by a chronic disease leading to death after several months to years. Animals tested positive for S . IIIb 61:k:1,5,(7) were all >1 year old. CPR represents a chronic disease in adult sheep posing a risk for spreading S . IIIb 61:k:1,5,(7) between flocks and with a zoonotic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoonotic enteroparasitosis represent an important public health problem, and species of protozoa such as Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. can reach high frequencies in regions where basic sanitation conditions are poor, which promotes outbreaks of diarrhea in humans and domestic and wild animals. Wild mammals such as the South American coati (Nasua nasua) feed on insects present in the soil, fruits, and small vertebrates, and are susceptible to contamination by enteroparasites present in the environmental niche. The aim of the present study was to investigate the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. in N. nasua from a region in the Brazilian Amazon. Fecal samples of 27 coatis two from free-living and 25 from captivity were collected in three different municipalities in the state of Pará, Brazil. The search for Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. in the collected samples were performed using the direct and Kinyoun methods, respectively, and a commercial immunological test (RIDA®QUICK Cryptosporidium/Giardia Combi. ®R-Biopharm) was used to detect antigens from both parasites. Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts were found in 11.1% (3/27) of the samples; one from a free-living animal and two from captive animals. Giardia spp. cysts were found in 11.1% (3/27) of the samples, all from captive animals. This is the first report of infection by these protozoans in this coati's species in the North region of Brazil; the South American coati may be participating as maintainers and disseminators of infectious agents to the environment and other hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichomonads are known to inhabit the oral cavities of various mammals, including dogs, cats and horses. However, little attention has been paid to species identification, prevalence and zoonotic potential of these parasites, although their hosts live in close proximity with humans. According to the original description, oral trichomonads in dogs and cats belong to the genus Tetratrichomonas . Interestingly, later investigations suggested that the oral cavities of dogs and cats could be infected with different species of the genus Trichomonas , including the human oral cavity parasite Trichomonas tenax . Thus, in this study we investigated the occurrence of oral trichomonads in 111 domestic dogs and 122 cats using cell cultivation methods, nested PCR analyses, and the sequencing of ITS1-5.8rRNA-ITS2 regions. We found that both dogs and cats harbour T. tenax , with prevalences of 8.1% and 4.1%, respectively. Considerably more dogs were infected with different species of the genus Trichomonas (30.6%), which we also identified in cats (6.6%). An analysis of the potential risk factors suggested that dogs of more than 3 years old or with dental disease signs are more frequently infected with Trichomonas sp. than younger dogs or dogs without the disease signs, and that crossbreed dogs revealed increased rates of infection in comparison with purebred dogs. An analysis of the cat population suggested that Trichomonas sp. infection is lower in younger and crossbreed cats. Although the morphology of Trichomonas sp. is very similar to that of T. tenax , based on a phylogenetic analysis of ITS1-5.8rRNA-ITS2 regions and the ssrRNA genes, we consider Trichomonas sp. to represent a new trichomonad species, for which we propose the name Trichomonas brixi . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotaviruses (RVs) are a major cause of acute viral gastroenteritis in young animals and children worldwide. Immunocompetent adults of different species become resistant to clinical disease due to post-infection immunity, immune system maturation and gut physiological changes. Of the 9 RV genogroups (A-I), RV A, B, and C (RVA, RVB, and RVC, respectively) are associated with diarrhea in piglets. Although discovered decades ago, porcine genogroup E RVs (RVE) are uncommon and their pathogenesis is not studied well. The presence of porcine RV H (RVH), a newly defined distinct genogroup, was recently confirmed in diarrheic pigs in Japan, Brazil, and the US. The complex epidemiology, pathogenicity and high genetic diversity of porcine RVAs are widely recognized and well-studied. More recent data show a significant genetic diversity based on the VP7 gene analysis of RVB and C strains in pigs. In this review, we will summarize previous and recent research to provide insights on historic and current prevalence and genetic diversity of porcine RVs in different geographic regions and production systems. We will also provide a brief overview of immune responses to porcine RVs, available control strategies and zoonotic potential of different RV genotypes. An improved understanding of the above parameters may lead to the development of more optimal strategies to manage RV diarrheal disease in swine and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bats belong to the order Chiroptera that represents the second largest order of mammals with more than 1200 species and an almost global distribution. Environmental changes and deforestation have severely influenced many ecosystems, intensifying the contact between wildlife and humans. In recent years, bats have been found to harbor a number of different viruses with zoonotic potential, as well as a great diversity of astroviruses, for which the question of zoonotic potential remains unanswered to date. Human astroviruses have been identified as the causative agent for diarrhea in children and immunocompromised patients. For a long time, astroviruses have been considered to be strictly species-specific. However, a great genetic diversity has recently been discovered among animal and human astroviruses that might indicate the potential of these viruses to cross species barriers. Furthermore, our knowledge about the tissue tropism of astroviruses has been expanded to some neurotropic strains that have recently been shown to be responsible for encephalitis in humans and livestock. This review gives an overview on what is known about astroviruses in bats, humans and livestock, especially bovines and pigs. Future research activities are suggested to unravel astrovirus infection dynamics in bat populations to further assess the zoonotic potential of these viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interplay between agent-host-environment characteristics is responsible for the emergence and zoonotic potential of infectious disease pathogens. Many studies have investigated key agent characteristics and environmental factors responsible for these phenomena. However, little is known about the role played by host characteristics in zoonoses, disease emergence and the ability of pathogens to infect multiple hosts. We compiled a dataset of 8114 vertebrate host-agent interactions from published literature. Multiple host characteristics and the pathogen's zoonotic, emergence and multi-host potential were then linked to the dataset. The associations between zoonotic, emerging human pathogen and multi-host pathogenicity and several host characteristics were explored using logistic regression models. The numbers of publications and sequences from the agent-host combinations were used to control for the research effort. Hosts in the class Aves (odds ratio [OR] 20.87, 95% CI 2.66-163.97) and Mammalia (OR 26.09, 95% CI 3.34-203.87) were more likely to host a zoonotic pathogen compared to the class Amphibia. Similarly, hosts having Bursa fabricii (i.e., birds) (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.4-2.3) were more likely to host an emerging human pathogen. The odds of being a zoonotic pathogen were highest when the host female required a greater number of days for maturity, and the pathogen was able to affect a greater number of host species. In contrast, the hosts from which a higher number of pathogens were reported were less likely (OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.31-0.49) to be associated with an emerging human pathogen. The odds of an emerging human pathogen were highest when the host had a higher adult body mass, and the specific pathogen could affect more host species. The odds of a pathogen infecting multiple hosts were highest when a host had shorter female maturity days (>670-2830 days) and lower birth/hatching weight (>42.2-995 g) compared to longer female maturity days (>2830-6940 days) and greater birth/hatching weight (>3.31-1160 kg). We conclude that several host characteristics - such as mass, maturity, immune system and pathogen permissiveness- are linked with zoonoses, disease emergence or multi-host pathogenicity. These findings can contribute to preparedness for emerging infections and zoonotic diseases., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (© 2023 The Author(s).)

Within the field of retrovirus, our knowledge of foamy viruses (FV) is still limited. Their unique replication strategy and mechanism of viral persistency needs further research to gain understanding of the virus-host interactions, especially in the light of the recent findings suggesting their ancient origin and long co-evolution with their nonhuman hosts. Unquestionably, the most studied member is the primate/prototype foamy virus (PFV) which was originally isolated from a human (designated as human foamy virus, HFV), but later identified as chimpanzee origin; phylogenetic analysis clearly places it among other Old World primates. Additionally, the study of non-simian animal FVs can contribute to a deeper understanding of FV-host interactions and development of other animal models. The review aims at highlighting areas of special interest regarding the structure, biology, virus-host interactions and interspecies transmission potential of primate as well as non-primate foamy viruses for gaining new insights into FV biology.

Successful transmission of Transmissible Mink Encephalopathy (TME) to cattle supports the bovine hypothesis for the still controversial origin of TME outbreaks. Human and primate susceptibility to classical Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (c-BSE) and the transmissibility of L-type BSE to macaques indicate a low cattle-to-primate species barrier. We therefore evaluated the zoonotic potential of cattle-adapted TME. In less than two years, this strain induced in cynomolgus macaques a neurological disease similar to L-BSE but distinct from c-BSE. TME derived from another donor species (raccoon) induced a similar disease with even shorter incubation periods. L-BSE and cattle-adapted TME were also transmissible to transgenic mice expressing human prion protein (PrP). Secondary transmissions to transgenic mice expressing bovine PrP maintained the features of the three tested bovine strains (cattle TME, c-BSE and L-BSE) regardless of intermediate host. Thus, TME is the third animal prion strain transmissible to both macaques and humanized transgenic mice, suggesting zoonotic potentials that should be considered in the risk analysis of animal prion diseases for human health. Moreover, the similarities between TME and L-BSE are highly suggestive of a link between these strains, and therefore the possible presence of L-BSE for many decades prior to its identification in USA and Europe.

In recent years, hepatitis B virus (HBV) has been detected in some species of animals. In this study, we found HBV-like nucleotide sequences in murine rodents and Asian house shrews (Suncus murinus) collected in China. A total of 801 animals were trapped. We found that 0.48% (3/624) of the murine rodents and 1.69% (3/177) of Asian house shrews were positive for HBV-like DNA. Detection of HBV-like DNA in brown rats (Rattus norvegicus), rice-field rat (Rattus losea), and Asian house shrews indicated that these species of animals might be hosts for HBV. However, none of the HBV-like DNA-positive animals was additionally positive for anti-HBV antibodies or hepatitis B surface antigen. A 585 bp nucleic acid sequence, mapping to a hepadnavirus, was extracted from rice-field rat, and bores strong resemblance to human HBV genotype B sequences. Further research is required to investigate the hepadnaviruses within the murine rodent and Asian house shrew populations to uncover the origin and zoonotic potential of HBV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular analysis of atypical schistosome eggs retrieved from children in Malawi revealed genetic interactions occurring between human (Schistosoma haematobium) and livestock (S. mattheei and S. bovis) schistosome species. Detection of hybrid schistosomes adds a notable new perspective to the epidemiology and control of urogenital schistosomiasis in central Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES The aim of this paper is to evaluate the current status of the disease, the mechanism of infection, and pathogenesis, its zoonotic potential, diagnostic advances, treatment regimens, and the preventive measures that can be adopted in managing human brucellosis in under-developed countries such as Nepal. METHODS We performed a systematic review of all the available literture through Google Scholar, PubMed, Gideon Informatics, World Health Organization and other legitimate sources. Other secondary informations were collected from the government agencies such as department of livestock services and Ministry of Health. The obtained information was then re-analysed and summarized. RESULTS Few publications have addressed brucellosis in Nepal and most of those publications have focused on bovine brucellosis with sparse information available on brucellosis in humans and small ruminants. Brucella abortus is the most predominant causative agent followed by B. suis. B. abortus is predominant in cattle accounting for a substantial portion of bovine abortion in the country. Lack of awareness, unhealthy food habit, traditional husbandry practices, and a lack of surveillance and immunization have been the major factors in maintaining a vicious cycle of propagation of the disease in human and animals. Unfortunately, nothing has been done to identify the species of Brucella at the biovar level. CONCLUSIONS Although brucellosis has been reported to be endemic in Nepal, neither the distribution nor the economic and public health impact of this disease is well characterized. Robust and well-designed nationwide survey is warranted to assess the prevalence and distribution of disease in livestock and humans. Such data would facilitate the design of appropriate control programmes.

Rotavirus A (RVA) is an etiologic agent of diarrhea in humans and animals. It shows a high degree of genetic heterogeneity. Although distinct associations of RVA genotypes with certain host species are common, interspecies-transmission has also been described. Recently, RVA strains, which are genetically distinct and cluster basally to all other RVA strains in phylogenetic trees, have been identified in common shrews (Sorex araneus). Here, the genome sequence analysis of another RVA strain (RVA/Common Shrew-wt/GER/KS11–0893/2010/G42P[58]) from a common shrew from Germany is described. Generally, the strain shows low sequence identities to established strains, which is reflected by the assessment of the novel genotypes G42-P[58]-I32-R28-C24-M24-A39-N28-T28-E32-H28 to its genome segments. Specifically, the strain is phylogenetically distant from previously described RVA strains of common shrews, whereas it is more closely related to other avian and mammalian RVA strains including those from Asian house shrews (Suncus murinus). The results indicate that a broad variety of diverse RVA strains can be found in shrews suggesting a significant role of these animals in rotavirus evolution. • Genome sequencing of a new rotavirus A strain from a common shrew. • Novel genotypes have been assigned to all 11 genome segments. • Only distant relationship to previously determined common shrew strains. • Closer relationship to avian and mammalian strains. • Results indicate a broad variety of rotavirus A strains in shrews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical detection dogs have potential to be used to screen asymptomatic patients in crowded areas at risk of epidemics such as the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, the fact that SARS-CoV-2 detection dogs are in direct contact with infected people or materials raises important concerns due to the zoonotic potential of the virus. No study has yet recommended a safety protocol to ensure the health of SARS- CoV-2 detection dogs during training and working in public areas. This study sought to identify suitable decontamination methods to obtain nonpathogenic face mask samples while working with SARS-CoV-2 detection dogs and to investigate whether dogs were able to adapt themselves to other decontamination procedures once they were trained for a specific odor. The present study was designed as a four-phase study: (a) Method development, (b) Testing of decon- tamination methods, (c) Testing of training methodology, and (d) Real life scenario. Surgical face masks were used as scent samples. In total, 3 dogs were trained. The practical use of 3 different decontam- ination procedures (storage, heating, and UV-C light) while training SARS-CoV-2 detection dogs were tested. The dog trained for the task alerted to the samples inactivated by the storage method with a sensitivity of100 % and specificity of 98.28 %. In the last phase of this study, one dog of 2 dogs trained, alerted to the samples inactivated by the UV-C light with a sensitivity of 91.30% and specificity of 97.16% while the other dog detected the sample with a sensitivity of 96.00% and specificity of 97.65 %., (© 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)