RESUMEN
Cryptosporidiosis has previously been reported in animals, humans, and water sources in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, most reports were only to the genus level, or generically identified as cryptosporidiosis. We aimed to investigate the genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium species occurring in diarrhetic ungulates which were brought to the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory (CVRL) in Dubai. Using a combination of microscopic and molecular methods, we identified five species of Cryptosporidium occurring among ungulates in the UAE, namely C. parvum, C. hominis, C. xiaoi, C. meleagridis, and C. equi. Cryptosporidium parvum was the most prevalent species in our samples. Furthermore, we identified subtypes of C. parvum and C. hominis, which are involved in both human and animal cryptosporidiosis. This is also the first reported occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in the Arabian Tahr, to our knowledge. Since the animals examined were all in contact with humans, the possibility of zoonotic spread is possible. Our study correlates with previous reports in the region, building upon the identification of Cryptosporidium sp. However, there is a need to further investigate the endemic populations of Cryptosporidium, including more hosts, sampling asymptomatic animals, and location data.
Asunto(s)
Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Diarrea , Variación Genética , Emiratos Árabes Unidos/epidemiología , Animales , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/clasificación , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Diarrea/veterinaria , Diarrea/parasitología , Diarrea/epidemiología , Heces/parasitología , Bovinos , Filogenia , Cabras/parasitología , ADN Protozoario/genéticaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Cryptosporidium infection is one of the major causes of acute gastroenteritis and diarrhoea caused by a protozoan parasite affecting vertebrates and humans. The disease is prevalent in cases of immunocompromised individuals. Despite the impact of the diseases in calf and hospitalized humans, well-documented studies are not available in the study area. OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in calves and hospitalized humans and assess the major associated risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium infection in calves and hospitalized humans. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2020 to March 2021 on calf and human Cryptosporidium infection in Libo Kemkem District, North West Ethiopia. A total of 193 calves and 122 human stool samples admitted to the hospital were used for this study. Three kebeles were selected purposely, and individual calves were selected using a simple random sampling method. A number of sampled calves were allocated proportionally to the selected kebeles. Human samples were collected using a systematic random sampling method. Faecal and stool samples were examined using a modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining method. RESULT: The overall prevalence of calf and human Cryptosporidium infection found in this study was 15.5% and 11.5%, respectively. Age of calf, breed, body condition, water source, faecal consistency and hygienic condition were found significantly (p < 0.05) associated with Cryptosporidium infection in the calf. Similarly, the source of potable water, immunocompromisation and contact with domestic animals were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) associated with Cryptosporidium infection in humans. CONCLUSION: There was a higher prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in calves and humans in Libo Kemkem District. Therefore, the implementation of proper prevention methods of zoonotic Cryptosporidium infection between calf and human beings through significant risk factors is mandatory. Furthermore, additional studies to investigate the levels of economic importance of the disease should be conducted.
Asunto(s)
Enfermedades de los Bovinos , Criptosporidiosis , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Animales , Etiopía/epidemiología , Bovinos , Prevalencia , Factores de Riesgo , Humanos , Estudios Transversales , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/parasitología , Masculino , Femenino , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Heces/parasitología , Adolescente , Hospitalización/estadística & datos numéricos , Adulto , NiñoRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Calf diarrhea is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the livestock sector worldwide and it can be caused by multiple infectious agents. In Ethiopia, cattle are the most economically important species within the livestock sector, but at the same time the young animals suffer from high rates of morbidity and mortality due to calf diarrhea. However, studies including both screening and molecular characterization of bovine enteric pathogens are lacking. Therefore, we aimed to both detect and molecularly characterize four of the major enteric pathogens in calf diarrhea, Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (E. coli K99 +), Cryptosporidium spp., rotavirus A (RVA), and bovine coronavirus (BCoV) in calves from central Ethiopia. Diarrheic and non-diarrheic calves were included in the study and fecal samples were analyzed with antigen-ELISA and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Positive samples were further characterized by genotyping PCRs. RESULTS: All four pathogens were detected in both diarrheic and non-diarrheic calves using qPCR and further characterization showed the presence of three Cryptosporidium species, C. andersoni, C. bovis and C. ryanae. Furthermore, genotyping of RVA-positive samples found a common bovine genotype G10P[11], as well as a more unusual G-type, G24. To our knowledge this is the first detection of the G24 RVA genotype in Ethiopia as well as in Africa. Lastly, investigation of the spike gene revealed two distinct BCoV strains, one classical BCoV strain and one bovine-like CoV strain. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that Cryptosporidium spp., E. coli K99 + , RVA and BCoV circulate in calves from central Ethiopia. Furthermore, our findings of the rare RVA G-type G24 and a bovine-like CoV demonstrates the importance of genetic characterization.
Asunto(s)
Enfermedades de los Bovinos , Coronavirus Bovino , Cryptosporidium , Diarrea , Heces , Rotavirus , Animales , Bovinos , Etiopía/epidemiología , Diarrea/veterinaria , Diarrea/virología , Diarrea/microbiología , Diarrea/parasitología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/virología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/parasitología , Heces/virología , Heces/parasitología , Heces/microbiología , Rotavirus/genética , Rotavirus/aislamiento & purificación , Rotavirus/clasificación , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/clasificación , Coronavirus Bovino/genética , Coronavirus Bovino/aislamiento & purificación , Escherichia coli Enterotoxigénica/aislamiento & purificación , Escherichia coli Enterotoxigénica/genética , Genotipo , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Infecciones por Rotavirus/veterinaria , Infecciones por Rotavirus/epidemiología , Infecciones por Rotavirus/virología , Infecciones por Coronavirus/veterinaria , Infecciones por Coronavirus/virología , Infecciones por Coronavirus/epidemiología , Reacción en Cadena en Tiempo Real de la Polimerasa/veterinaria , Infecciones por Escherichia coli/veterinaria , Infecciones por Escherichia coli/epidemiología , Infecciones por Escherichia coli/microbiologíaRESUMEN
This review explores our understanding of Cryptosporidium species and Giardia duodenalis distribution in Middle East and North African (MENA) water resources. Results emphasize that Cryptosporidium species (sp.) and G. duodenalis (oo)cysts are present in distinct categories of water in ten MENA countries. Cryptosporidium sp. proportional prevalence in the MENA region was 24.5% (95% CI 16.3-33.8), while G. duodenalis prevalence was 37.7% (95% CI 21.9-55.1). Raw wastewater and surface water were the water categories most significantly impacted. Both parasites were reported in the various types of MENA drinking waters. The most frequent species/genotypes reported were C. hominis, C. parvum, and G. duodenalis assemblage A. Despite the high prevalence of (oo)cysts reported, we should consider the absence of waterborne outbreaks. This indicates significant underestimation and underreporting of both parasites in MENA. Stakeholders should apply water contamination legislation to eradicate Cryptosporidium sp. and G. duodenalis (oo)cysts from water resources/categories.
Asunto(s)
Cryptosporidium , Giardia lamblia , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Giardia lamblia/aislamiento & purificación , Medio Oriente/epidemiología , África del Norte/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Humanos , Recursos Hídricos , Giardiasis/epidemiología , Giardiasis/parasitología , Agua Potable/parasitología , Abastecimiento de AguaRESUMEN
Snakes are sometimes regarded as pets and are used in traditional Chinese medicine. Cryptosporidium spp. are frequently identified in snakes, representing an important pathogen and causing gastrointestinal diseases. Current data indicate that risk factors for infection and patterns of clinical symptom presentation may differ among Cryptosporidium spp. To better understand the infection status by Cryptosporidium spp., fecal samples were collected from 603 asymptomatic and 147 symptomatic snakes in 26 provinces of China. These samples came from Elaphe guttata, Elaphe obsoleta, Pituophis melanoleucus, Thamnophis sirtalis, Lampropeltis getulus, and Heterodon nasicus. The partial small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene was amplified using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to investigate the infection rate of Cryptosporidium spp., and to assess evolutionary relationships and genetic characterization. A prevalence of 20% was recorded in asymptomatic snakes, with age identified as a significant risk factor. In contrast, 70% of symptomatic snakes were positive for Cryptosporidium spp., with Cryptosporidium serpentis and Cryptosporidium varanii (syn. C. saurophilum). Further analysis revealed a potential association between C. serpentis and regurgitation, and C. varanii and diarrhea, while neither species was linked to flatulence. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report Cryptosporidium spp. and associated clinical signs in symptomatic snakes in China. This study aims to enhance the understanding of Cryptosporidium infections, risk factors, and clinical manifestations in snakes, providing data crucial for the control and prevention of cryptosporidiosis.
Title: Cryptosporidium spp. chez les serpents captifs de 26 provinces de Chine : prévalence, caractérisation moléculaire et symptômes. Abstract: Les serpents sont parfois considérés comme animaux de compagnie et sont utilisés en médecine traditionnelle chinoise. Des Cryptosporidium spp. sont fréquemment identifiés chez les serpents, ont un rôle d'agent pathogène important et provoquent des maladies gastro-intestinales. Les données actuelles indiquent que les facteurs de risque d'infection et les schémas de présentation des symptômes cliniques peuvent varier en fonction des espèces de Cryptosporidium. Pour mieux comprendre l'état d'infection par Cryptosporidium spp., des échantillons fécaux ont été collectés auprès de 603 serpents asymptomatiques et 147 serpents symptomatiques dans 26 provinces de Chine. Ces échantillons provenaient d'Elaphe guttata, Elaphe obsoleta, Pituophis melanoleucus, Thamnophis sirtalis, Lampropeltis getulus et Heterodon nasicus. Le gène de l'ARNr de la petite sous-unité partielle (SSU) a été amplifié à l'aide d'une réaction en chaîne par polymérase (PCR) imbriquée pour étudier le taux d'infection par Cryptosporidium spp. et évaluer les relations évolutives et la caractérisation génétique. Une prévalence de 20 % a été trouvée chez les serpents asymptomatiques, l'âge étant identifié comme un facteur de risque important. En revanche, 70 % des serpents symptomatiques étaient positifs à Cryptosporidium spp. avec Cryptosporidium serpentis et Cryptosporidium varanii (syn. C. saurophilum). Une analyse plus approfondie a révélé une association potentielle entre C. serpentis et la régurgitation, et C. varanii et la diarrhée, alors qu'aucune des deux espèces n'était liée aux flatulences. À notre connaissance, il s'agit ici de la première étude à signaler la présence de Cryptosporidium spp. et les signes cliniques associés chez des serpents symptomatiques en Chine. Cette étude vise à améliorer la compréhension des infections à Cryptosporidium, des facteurs de risque et des manifestations cliniques chez les serpents, en fournissant des données cruciales pour le contrôle et la prévention de la cryptosporidiose.
Asunto(s)
Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Heces , Serpientes , Animales , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Cryptosporidium/clasificación , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , China/epidemiología , Prevalencia , Heces/parasitología , Serpientes/parasitología , Filogenia , Factores de Riesgo , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa/veterinaria , Masculino , Femenino , ADN Protozoario/aislamiento & purificación , Diarrea/parasitología , Diarrea/veterinaria , Diarrea/epidemiología , Mascotas/parasitologíaRESUMEN
The domestic chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is kept as a pet and previous studies suggest that it may play an important role as a source of zoonotic parasites, including Giardia intestinalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and microsporidia. In this study, we examined the occurrence and genetic diversity of above mentioned parasites in pet chinchillas in the Czech Republic by PCR/sequencing of the 18S rRNA, TPI, and ITS genes. Of 149 chinchillas from 24 breeders, 91.3â¯% were positive for G. intestinalis, 8.1â¯% for Cryptosporidium spp., 2.0â¯% for Encephalitozoon spp., and 5.4â¯% for E. bieneusi. Molecular analyses revealed presence of G. intestinalis assemblage B, C. ubiquitum (XIIa family), E. bieneusi genotypes D, SCF2, and, CHN-F1, and E. intestinalis. The infection intensity of G. intestinalis determined by qRT-PCR reached up to 53,978 CPG, C. ubiquitum up to 1409 OPG, E. intestinalis up to 1124 SPG, and E. bieneusi up to 1373 SPG. Only two chinchillas with C. ubiquitum and five with G. intestinalis had diarrhoea at the time of the screening. Three chinchillas in the long-term study were consistently positive for G. intestinalis, with intermittent excretion of C. ubiquitum, E. intestinalis, and E. bieneusi over 25 weeks. The findings indicate that chinchillas are frequently infected with zoonotic parasitic protists, but that these infections rarely show clinical signs. The lack of visible signs could reduce the vigilance of pet owners when handling their chinchillas, increasing the risk of transmission within breeding groups and possibly to humans.
Asunto(s)
Chinchilla , Cryptosporidium , Encephalitozoon , Encefalitozoonosis , Enterocytozoon , Giardia lamblia , Giardiasis , Microsporidiosis , Mascotas , Zoonosis , Animales , Chinchilla/parasitología , Encephalitozoon/genética , Encephalitozoon/aislamiento & purificación , Encephalitozoon/clasificación , Zoonosis/parasitología , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/clasificación , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Giardiasis/veterinaria , Giardiasis/parasitología , Giardia lamblia/genética , Giardia lamblia/aislamiento & purificación , Giardia lamblia/clasificación , República Checa/epidemiología , Encefalitozoonosis/veterinaria , Encefalitozoonosis/epidemiología , Encefalitozoonosis/microbiología , Enterocytozoon/genética , Enterocytozoon/aislamiento & purificación , Microsporidiosis/veterinaria , Microsporidiosis/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , ARN Ribosómico 18S/genética , Heces/parasitología , Heces/microbiología , MasculinoRESUMEN
Cryptosporidiosis is a parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Cryptosporidium in vertebrates. In livestock, especially ruminants, infants develop diarrheal syndromes. The infection is common worldwide , including Iran, where it is reported in several species. Morphological diagnosis of Cryptosporidium species is associated with many limitations and has no taxonomic value on its own, so the use of molecular methods can overcome these limitations to some extent. The present aims at microscopic, molecular and antigen detection and isolation of Cryptosporidium parvum parasites. Firstly, 300 samples were collected from different parts of Iran. Subsequently oocysts from feces were purified by the method of Casemore et al. using the flotation technique and stained by the modified Ziehl-Neelsen method (Henriksen method) and identified by diagnostic keys. ELISA test was also performed on the samples with results ranging from 1 to 4 positive. The results of our study show that, of the 300 cases tested for Cryptosporidium, 48 cases (16%) and 54 (18%) were positive in ELISA and PCR, respectively. Microscopic evaluation also mainly confirmed the ELISA results. These cases were collected in summer, autumn, and winter, with, more than 50% of the positive cases found among the samples collected in autumn. In addition, 54 positive cases were found by PCR test, which is 6 cases more than ELISA results. Finally, the results of PCR detection and ELISA were subjected to chi-square analysis, where no significant difference was found between the collected data (p=0.0587).
Asunto(s)
Enfermedades de los Bovinos , Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium parvum , Diarrea , Ensayo de Inmunoadsorción Enzimática , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Cryptosporidium parvum/aislamiento & purificación , Irán/epidemiología , Animales , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/parasitología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/diagnóstico , Bovinos , Ensayo de Inmunoadsorción Enzimática/veterinaria , Diarrea/veterinaria , Diarrea/parasitología , Diarrea/epidemiología , Antígenos de Protozoos/análisis , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa/veterinaria , Heces/parasitologíaRESUMEN
Wild rodents serve as reservoirs for Cryptosporidium and are overpopulated globally. However, genetic data regarding Cryptosporidium in these animals from China are limited. Here, we have determined the prevalence and genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium among 370 wild rodents captured from three distinct locations in the southern region of Zhejiang Province, China. Fresh feces were collected from the rectum of each rodent, and DNA was extracted from them. The rodent species was identified by PCR amplifying the vertebrate cytochrome b gene. Cryptosporidium was detected by PCR amplification and amplicon sequencing the small subunit of ribosomal RNA gene. Positive samples of C. viatorum and C. parvum were further subtyped by analyzing the 60-kDa glycoprotein gene. A positive Cryptosporidium result was found in 7% (26/370) of samples, involving five rodent species: Apodemus agrarius (36), Niviventer niviventer (75), Rattus losea (18), R. norvegicus (155), and R. tanezumi (86). Their respective Cryptosporidium positive rates were 8.3%, 5.3%, 11.1%, 7.1%, and 7.0%. Sequence analysis confirmed the presence of three Cryptosporidium species: C. parvum (4), C. viatorum (1), and C. muris (1), and two genotypes: Cryptosporidium rat genotype IV (16) and C. mortiferum-like (4). Additionally, two subtypes of C. parvum (IIdA15G1 and IIpA19) and one subtype of C. viatorum (XVdA3) were detected. These results demonstrate that various wild rodent species in Zhejiang were concurrently infected with rodent-adapted and zoonotic species/genotypes of Cryptosporidium, indicating that these rodents can play a role in maintaining and dispersing this parasite into the environment and other hosts, including humans.
Title: Transmission interspécifique de Cryptosporidium chez les rongeurs sauvages de la région sud de la province chinoise du Zhejiang et son impact possible sur la santé publique. Abstract: Les rongeurs sauvages servent de réservoirs à Cryptosporidium et ont des grandes populations à l'échelle mondiale. Cependant, les données génétiques concernant Cryptosporidium chez ces animaux en Chine sont limitées. Ici, nous avons déterminé la prévalence et les caractéristiques génétiques de Cryptosporidium parmi 370 rongeurs sauvages capturés dans trois endroits distincts de la région sud de la province du Zhejiang, en Chine. Des excréments frais ont été collectés dans le rectum de chaque rongeur et l'ADN en a été extrait. L'espèce de rongeur a été identifiée par amplification par PCR du gène du cytochrome b des vertébrés. Cryptosporidium a été détecté par amplification PCR et séquençage d'amplicons de la petite sous-unité du gène de l'ARN ribosomal. Les échantillons positifs de C. viatorum et C. parvum ont ensuite été sous-typés en analysant le gène de la glycoprotéine de 60 kDa. Un résultat positif pour Cryptosporidium a été trouvé dans 7 % (26/370) des échantillons, impliquant cinq espèces de rongeurs : Apodemus agrarius (36), Niviventer niviventer (75), Rattus losea (18), R. norvegicus (155) et R. tanezumi (86). Leurs taux respectifs de positivité pour Cryptosporidium étaient de 8,3 %, 5,3 %, 11,1 %, 7,1 % et 7,0 %. L'analyse des séquences a confirmé la présence de trois espèces de Cryptosporidium : C. parvum (4), C. viatorum (1) et C. muris (1), et de deux génotypes : Cryptosporidium génotype IV de rat (16) et C. mortiferum-like (4). De plus, deux sous-types de C. parvum (IIdA15G1 et IIpA19) et un sous-type de C. viatorum (XVdA3) ont été détectés. Ces résultats démontrent que diverses espèces de rongeurs sauvages du Zhejiang sont simultanément infectées par des espèces/génotypes de Cryptosporidium zoonotiques et adaptés aux rongeurs, ce qui indique que ces rongeurs peuvent jouer un rôle dans le maintien et la dispersion de ce parasite dans l'environnement et d'autres hôtes, y compris les humains.
Asunto(s)
Animales Salvajes , Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Heces , Enfermedades de los Roedores , Roedores , Animales , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/transmisión , China/epidemiología , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Cryptosporidium/clasificación , Heces/parasitología , Enfermedades de los Roedores/parasitología , Enfermedades de los Roedores/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Roedores/transmisión , Animales Salvajes/parasitología , Ratas/parasitología , Roedores/parasitología , Prevalencia , Salud Pública , Reservorios de Enfermedades/parasitología , Reservorios de Enfermedades/veterinaria , Filogenia , Humanos , ADN Protozoario/aislamiento & purificación , Murinae/parasitología , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa , Zoonosis/parasitología , Zoonosis/transmisión , Zoonosis/epidemiología , GenotipoRESUMEN
Objective: Giardia and Cryptosporidium are enteric protozoa that can cause a variety of gastrointestinal diseases, especially in vulnerable people like children, the elderly, and those with impaired immune systems. In order to ascertain the microbiological quality of the recreational water from Araromi Beach in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. This risk assessment is of great significance to human health protection against waterborne diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the microbial quality of recreational water from Araromi Beach in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. Methods: Microscopic examination of Cryptosporidium and Giardia oocysts were done. Results: Results revealed maximum occurrence of Cryptosporidium parvum (20 oocysts/100 mL) of water sample in the month of April and maximum occurrence of Giardia lamblia (300 cysts/100 mL) of water sample in the month of June. Additionally, according to Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests for normalcy Ho =0.05, Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum were not regularly distributed in the water samples collected from the beach throughout the study period. The average likelihood of contracting Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum infections after consuming 100 mL of beach water was 0.96 and 0.35, respectively. The risks of infection associated with Cryptosporidium parvum was lower than those associated with Giardia lamblia in water from the beach, but were both above the acceptable risk limit of 10-4. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that Giardia and Cryptosporidium may represent serious health hazards to people who engage in aquatic activities. Adopting a comprehensive strategy that includes regular inspections, enhanced detection techniques, and the prevention of aquatic environment pollution may provide clean and safe recreational water for all, thereby safeguarding the public's health.
Asunto(s)
Cryptosporidium parvum , Giardia lamblia , Cryptosporidium parvum/aislamiento & purificación , Giardia lamblia/aislamiento & purificación , Nigeria/epidemiología , Humanos , Agua de Mar/parasitología , Medición de Riesgo , Microbiología del Agua , Giardiasis/epidemiología , Giardiasis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Recreación , OocistosRESUMEN
The zoonotic parasite Cryptosporidium parvum is a global cause of gastrointestinal disease in humans and ruminants. Sequence analysis of the highly polymorphic gp60 gene enabled the classification of C. parvum isolates into multiple groups (e.g., IIa, IIc, Id) and a large number of subtypes. In Europe, subtype IIaA15G2R1 is largely predominant and has been associated with many water- and food-borne outbreaks. In this study, we generated new whole-genome sequence (WGS) data from 123 human- and ruminant-derived isolates collected in 13 European countries and included other available WGS data from Europe, Egypt, China, and the United States (n = 72) in the largest comparative genomics study to date. We applied rigorous filters to exclude mixed infections and analyzed a data set from 141 isolates from the zoonotic groups IIa (n = 119) and IId (n = 22). Based on 28,047 high-quality, biallelic genomic SNPs, we identified three distinct and strongly supported populations: Isolates from China (IId) and Egypt (IIa and IId) formed population 1; a minority of European isolates (IIa and IId) formed population 2; and the majority of European (IIa, including all IIaA15G2R1 isolates) and all isolates from the United States (IIa) clustered in population 3. Based on analyses of the population structure, population genetics, and recombination, we show that population 3 has recently emerged and expanded throughout Europe to then, possibly from the United Kingdom, reach the United States, where it also expanded. The reason(s) for the successful spread of population 3 remain elusive, although genes under selective pressure uniquely in this population were identified.
Asunto(s)
Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium parvum , Brotes de Enfermedades , Cryptosporidium parvum/genética , Estados Unidos/epidemiología , Europa (Continente)/epidemiología , Humanos , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Animales , Genómica/métodos , Polimorfismo de Nucleótido Simple , Filogenia , Secuenciación Completa del Genoma/métodos , Genoma de Protozoos , China/epidemiología , Egipto/epidemiologíaRESUMEN
Cryptosporidium infection is a common occurrence in rodents worldwide. In this study, 435 wild brown rats were captured from an animal feedlot in Xinjiang, China, with a fecal sample obtained directly from the rectal contents of each rat. The DNA extracted from these fecal samples was analyzed for Cryptosporidium spp. using PCR targeting the SSU rRNA gene. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in brown rats was found to be 5.5% (24 out of 435). Interestingly, the infection rates varied among different animal enclosures, with rates of 0% in the chicken coop (0/51), cowshed (0/3), and varying rates in other areas including the sheepfold (6.1%, 6/98), the pigsty (7.6%, 10/132), the dovecote (7.0%, 5/71), and outdoor environments (3.8%, 3/80). The study identified three species and one genotype of Cryptosporidium, namely C. occultus (n = 10), C. parvum (n = 4), C. ditrichi (n = 1), and Cryptosporidium rat genotype IV (n = 9). Additionally, two of the C. parvum isolates were successfully subtyped as IIdA19G1 (n = 2) at the gp60 gene. These results offer valuable insights into the prevalence and genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium in brown rats within the region.
Asunto(s)
Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Heces , Animales , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/clasificación , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , China/epidemiología , Ratas/parasitología , Heces/parasitología , Prevalencia , Genotipo , ADN Protozoario/genética , Filogenia , Enfermedades de los Roedores/parasitología , Enfermedades de los Roedores/epidemiología , Reacción en Cadena de la PolimerasaRESUMEN
The North African hedgehog (Atelerix algirus) is an introduced species from Northwest Africa and is currently distributed in the Canary Islands. This species of hedgehog has been studied as a reservoir of enteropathogens, including Cryptosporidium spp. However, there are no data at species level. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify the Cryptosporidium species present in a population of hedgehogs (n = 36) in the Canary Islands. Molecular screening was performed using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) gene of Cryptosporidium spp. Seven of the 36 fecal samples (19.45%) were positive and confirmed by nested PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene and Sanger sequencing. Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium muris were identified in 11.1% (4/36) and 5.6% (2/36) of the samples, respectively, while one sample could only be identified at the genus level. The zoonotic subtypes IIdA15G1 (n = 1), IIdA16G1b (n = 1), and IIdA22G1 (n = 1) of C. parvum were identified by nested PCR followed by analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene sequence. This study is the first genetic characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in A. algirus, identifying zoonotic species and subtypes of the parasite.
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Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Erizos , Filogenia , Animales , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/clasificación , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , ADN Protozoario/genética , ADN Ribosómico/genética , ADN Ribosómico/química , Heces/parasitología , Genotipo , Erizos/parasitología , Datos de Secuencia Molecular , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa , ARN Ribosómico 18S/genética , Análisis de Secuencia de ADN , EspañaRESUMEN
BackgroundBy mid-September 2023, several event notifications related to cryptosporidiosis had been identified from different regions in Spain. Therefore, a request for urgent notification of cryptosporidiosis cases to the National Surveillance Network was launched.AimWe aimed at assessing the extent of the increase in cases, the epidemiological characteristics and the transmission modes and compared to previous years.MethodsWe analysed data on case notifications, outbreak reports and genotypes focusing on June-October 2023 and compared the results to 2016-2022.ResultsIn 2023, 4,061 cryptosporidiosis cases were notified in Spain, which is an increase compared to 2016-2022. The cumulative incidence was 8.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023, sixfold higher than the median of 1.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants 2016-2022. Almost 80% of the cases were notified between June and October. The largest outbreaks were related to contaminated drinking water or swimming pools. Cryptosporidium hominis was the most common species in the characterised samples (115/122), and the C. hominis IfA12G1R5 subtype, previously unusual in Spain, was detected from 76 (62.3%) of the 122 characterised samples.ConclusionsA substantial increase in cryptosporidiosis cases was observed in 2023. Strengthening surveillance of Cryptosporidium is essential for prevention of cases, to better understand trends and subtypes circulating and the impact of adverse meteorological events.
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Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Brotes de Enfermedades , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Humanos , España/epidemiología , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Cryptosporidium/genética , Masculino , Incidencia , Adulto , Femenino , Preescolar , Brotes de Enfermedades/estadística & datos numéricos , Adolescente , Persona de Mediana Edad , Niño , Lactante , Anciano , Adulto Joven , Genotipo , Vigilancia de la Población , Agua Potable/parasitología , Piscinas , Notificación de Enfermedades/estadística & datos numéricos , Recién Nacido , Heces/parasitologíaRESUMEN
Cryptosporidium and Giardia are important parasitic protozoa due to their zoonotic potential and impact on human health, and have often caused waterborne outbreaks of disease. Detection of (oo)cysts in water matrices is challenging and extremely costly, thus only few countries have legislated for regular monitoring of drinking water for their presence. Several attempts have been made trying to investigate the association between the presence of such (oo)cysts in waters with other biotic or abiotic factors, with inconclusive findings. In this regard, the aim of this study was the development of an holistic approach leveraging Machine Learning (ML) and eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques, in order to provide empirical evidence related to the presence and prediction of Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts in water samples. To meet this objective, we initially modelled the complex relationship between Cryptosporidium and Giardia (oo)cysts and a set of parasitological, microbiological, physicochemical and meteorological parameters via a model-agnostic meta-learner algorithm that provides flexibility regarding the selection of the ML model executing the fitting task. Based on this generic approach, a set of four well-known ML candidates were, empirically, evaluated in terms of their predictive capabilities. Then, the best-performed algorithms, were further examined through XAI techniques for gaining meaningful insights related to the explainability and interpretability of the derived solutions. The findings reveal that the Random Forest achieves the highest prediction performance when the objective is the prediction of both contamination and contamination intensity with Cryptosporidium oocysts in a given water sample, with meteorological/physicochemical and microbiological markers being informative, respectively. For the prediction of contamination with Giardia, the eXtreme Gradient Boosting with physicochemical parameters was the most efficient algorithm, while, the Support Vector Regression that takes into consideration both microbiological and meteorological markers was more efficient for evaluating the contamination intensity with cysts. The results of the study designate that the adoption of ML and XAI approaches can be considered as a valuable tool for unveiling the complicated correlation of the presence and contamination intensity with these zoonotic parasites that could constitute, in turn, a basis for the development of monitoring platforms and early warning systems for the prevention of waterborne disease outbreaks.
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Inteligencia Artificial , Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Giardia , Giardiasis , Aprendizaje Automático , Criptosporidiosis/prevención & control , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Giardia/aislamiento & purificación , Humanos , Giardiasis/prevención & control , Giardiasis/epidemiología , Oocistos , Enfermedades Transmitidas por el Agua/prevención & controlRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: . Splash pads for recreational purposes are widespread. Using these pads can pose a health risk if they lack installation regulation and water quality supervision. Our aim was to describe a waterborne disease outbreak caused by Clostridium perfringens and Cryptosporidium spp. in a Barcelona district and the measures taken for its control. METHODS: . On August 2018, 71 cases of acute gastroenteritis were detected, affecting people who used a splash pad or were in contact with a user. Microbiological and environmental investigations were carried out. A descriptive analysis of the sample and Poisson regression models adjusted for age and sex were performed, obtaining frequencies, median values, and adjusted prevalence ratios with their 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: The median age of the cases was 6.7 years, 27 (38%) required medical care, and three (4.2%) were hospitalized. The greater the number of times a person entered the area, the greater the number of symptoms and their severity. Nineteen (76%) of the 25 stool samples collected from cases showed the presence of one or both pathogens. Environmental investigations showed deficiencies in the facilities and identified the presence of both species in the splash pad. Health education and hygiene measures were carried out, and 14 days after the closure of the facilities, no more cases related to the pad were recorded. CONCLUSIONS: . Specific regulations are needed on the use of splash pads for recreational purposes. Until these regulations are in place, these types of facility should comply with the regulations that apply to swimming pools and spas, including those related to the design of the tanks, water recirculation systems, and adequate disinfection systems.
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Infecciones por Clostridium , Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Brotes de Enfermedades , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , España/epidemiología , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Infecciones por Clostridium/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Adulto , Niño , Adolescente , Preescolar , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto Joven , Clostridium perfringens/aislamiento & purificación , Gastroenteritis/epidemiología , Gastroenteritis/microbiología , Enfermedades Transmitidas por el Agua/epidemiología , Lactante , Microbiología del AguaRESUMEN
The Louisiana pine snake (Pituophis ruthveni) is a diurnal colubrid species native to Louisiana and eastern Texas whose free-ranging populations have been declining over at least the past 30 yr. The creation and maintenance of sustainable captive breeding programs of P. ruthveni to restore native populations has also provided ample opportunity for research into this species and for P. ruthveni to serve as a research model for other colubrid snakes. However, no investigation into prevalent causes of morbidity and mortality in captive populations of this species has been described. A research population of P. ruthveni was maintained at Louisiana State University (LSU) for over 4 yr due to unsuitability for breeding after testing positive for Cryptosporidium serpentis. Since arrival at LSU, the snakes were under close veterinary surveillance. Complete postmortem examinations were performed on 12 snakes that died or were euthanized. The aim of this study was to further understanding of common factors influencing morbidity and mortality in captive P. ruthveni infected with C. serpentis, by retrospectively reviewing postmortem exam findings from the 12 deceased members of the population at LSU. A predominant finding across individuals included bacterial infections, which were responsible for major illness or death in 37.5% of the animals. Fifty percent of snakes tested positive for Cryptosporidium sp. based on PCR performed from postmortem samples; it was directly implicated as cause of death or morbidity in 83.3% of positive cases. Although infectious disease represented the most common pathologic postmortem finding, several noninfectious disease processes were identified, including gout, goiter, and neoplasia. These findings mirror those of other retrospective investigations of reptile collections at various institutions and highlight the need for appropriate emphasis on the identification, treatment, and prevention of infectious disease as part of routine veterinary care.
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Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Animales , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/mortalidad , Estudios Retrospectivos , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Louisiana/epidemiología , Colubridae/parasitología , Femenino , Masculino , Animales de ZoológicoRESUMEN
Cryptosporidium is one of the most important enteric diarrhoeal parasites that infect humans and animals worldwide. The current study investigated the occurrence and risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium infection in ruminants aged ≤6 months in Monze, Mumbwa, and Lusaka districts of Zambia. Faecal samples were collected from 328 calves, 190 lambs, and 245 goat kids and analysed for Cryptosporidium oocysts using modified Ziehl Neelsen staining. A closed structured questionnaire was used to obtain epidemiological characteristics and potential risk factors for Cryptosporidium infection. The overall occurrence of Cryptosporidium was 7.9% (60/763), while that in calves, lambs and goat kids was 14.5% (47/328), 5.3% (10/190), and 1.2% (3/245) respectively. Watery/pasty stool and sampling during the rainy season were independently associated with increased risk of infection. In calves, the odds of infection increased during the rainy season, while daily kraal cleaning reduced the infection risk. Lambs showed increased odds of infection with pasty/watery stool and male sex, whereas the wearing of protective clothing by handlers significantly reduced the risk. There were district variations in infection occurrence with Mumbwa district having higher prevalence. The findings of this study show that livestock in Zambia continue to be frequently infected with Cryptosporidium. Protective measures and appropriate farm cleanliness should be implemented in control of this infection. Regional and host-species-specific variations emphasize the need for targeted interventions. These findings, therefore, contribute to effective strategies for Cryptosporidium control, promoting good livestock health and management.
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Enfermedades de los Bovinos , Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Heces , Enfermedades de las Cabras , Cabras , Enfermedades de las Ovejas , Animales , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Zambia/epidemiología , Ovinos , Factores de Riesgo , Enfermedades de las Cabras/epidemiología , Enfermedades de las Cabras/parasitología , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Enfermedades de las Ovejas/epidemiología , Enfermedades de las Ovejas/parasitología , Heces/parasitología , Masculino , Bovinos , Femenino , Prevalencia , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/parasitología , Estaciones del Año , Ganado/parasitologíaRESUMEN
Non-human primates (NHPs) are the group that most share infectious agents with humans due to their close taxonomic relationship. The southern brown howler monkeys (Alouatta guariba clamitans) are endemic primates from Brazil and Argentina's Atlantic Forest. This study aimed to investigate the presence of intestinal parasites in free-living (FL) and captive (CA) southern brown howler monkeys. Thirty-nine stool samples were collected in two areas in southern Brazil, 15 FL and 24 CA. Stool sediments obtained by centrifugal sedimentation technique were used for microscopic analysis and direct immunofluorescence assay and evaluated by molecular analysis through amplification and sequencing of TPI fragments. Intestinal parasites Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Trypanoxyuris minutus were detected at coproparasitological analysis. This is the first report of the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. in free-living howlers. The molecular characterization of G. duodenalis isolates indicated assemblage B for the first time found in free-living A. guariba clamitans. The high prevalence of G. duodenalis transmission in CA howler monkeys can be explained by direct contact with humans and frequent soil contact. The presence of a potentially zoonotic assemblage in these animals indicates that the process of fragmentation and cohabitation with humans and livestock affects the wildlife, thus indicating a need for eco-health measures.
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Alouatta , Giardia lamblia , Giardiasis , Enfermedades de los Monos , Animales , Alouatta/parasitología , Brasil/epidemiología , Enfermedades de los Monos/parasitología , Enfermedades de los Monos/epidemiología , Giardiasis/veterinaria , Giardiasis/parasitología , Giardiasis/epidemiología , Giardia lamblia/aislamiento & purificación , Giardia lamblia/genética , Giardia lamblia/clasificación , Heces/parasitología , Animales de Zoológico/parasitología , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Cryptosporidium/clasificación , Cryptosporidium/genética , Prevalencia , Masculino , Animales Salvajes/parasitología , Femenino , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiologíaRESUMEN
Cryptosporidiosis, a zoonotic infection impacting both livestock and humans, is inadequately understood in terms of its prevalence and transmission dynamics involving buffaloes in Bangladesh. This research, conducted in the Sylhet division, aimed to explore the prevalence and potential risk factors influencing Cryptosporidium spp. in the faecal samples of 392 buffaloes. Detection of the parasite utilized modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining, with molecular identification achieved through nested PCR (nPCR). The comprehensive analysis revealed 9.18% (36/392) prevalence at the individual animal level and 40.48% (17/42) at the herd level. Age-based analysis revealed fluctuating infection rates of Cryptosporidium spp. in buffaloes across distinct age brackets, with rates of 22.61% in those aged 0-6 months, 5.00% in those aged 6-12 months, and 1.03% in those aged 12-18 months. Diarrheic buffaloes showed a significantly (p < 0.001) higher infection rate (26.67%; 28/105) compared to non-diarrheic buffaloes (2.79%; 8/287). In risk factor analysis, binary logistic regression revealed that buffaloes aged 0-6 months were experiencing a likelihood that is 14.84 times higher to be affected by Cryptosporidium in contrast to their older counterparts (OR = 14.85; p = 0.02). Additionally, diarrhoeic buffaloes were found to be more susceptible to Cryptosporidium compared to healthy buffaloes (OR = 17.50; p < 0.001). A higher stocking density was associated with an increased likelihood of infection in buffaloes (OR = 11.20; p = 0.01). The results of this study emphasize the necessity for targeted interventions, considering factors like diarrheic condition and stocking density, to effectively manage and control cryptosporidiosis in Bangladesh.
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Búfalos , Criptosporidiosis , Cryptosporidium , Heces , Criptosporidiosis/epidemiología , Criptosporidiosis/parasitología , Animales , Bangladesh/epidemiología , Búfalos/parasitología , Cryptosporidium/aislamiento & purificación , Cryptosporidium/genética , Heces/parasitología , Prevalencia , Factores de Riesgo , Femenino , Masculino , Diarrea/veterinaria , Diarrea/parasitología , Diarrea/epidemiología , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa/veterinariaRESUMEN
Cryptosporidium spp. are protozoa commonly found in domestic and wild animals. Limited information is available on Cryptosporidium in deer worldwide. In this study, 201 fecal samples were collected from Alpine musk deer on three farms in Gansu Province, China. Detection and subtyping of Cryptosporidium were performed by PCR and sequence analysis of the SSU rRNA and gp60 genes. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in Alpine musk deer was 3.9% (8/201), with infection rates of 1.0% (1/100), 2.8% (1/36), and 9.2% (6/65) in three different farms. All positive samples for Cryptosporidium were from adult deer. Two Cryptosporidium species were identified, including C. parvum (n = 2) and C. xiaoi (n = 6). The C. parvum isolates were subtyped as IIdA15G1, while the C. xiaoi isolates were subtyped as XXIIIa (n = 2) and XXIIIg (n = 4). The IIdA15G1 subtype of C. parvum was found for the first time in deer. These results provide important insights into the identity and human infectious potential of Cryptosporidium in farmed Alpine musk deer.