Global and regional seroprevalence of coxiellosis in small ruminants: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Coxiellosis is a neglected zoonosis for occupationally exposed people in many parts of the world. Sheep and goats are two important small ruminants that act as reservoirs for human contamination; however, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the epidemiological aspects of coxiellosis in sheep and goats at regional and global levels. The aim of this study was to systematically review the available articles on seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep and goats and estimate the overall seroprevalence in different regions. METHODS: A systematic search strategy was performed in five electronic repositories for articles published until December 2021. Relevant data were extracted from the selected articles based on the inclusion criteria. A random effect meta-analysis model was used to analyse the data. Results are presented as the prevalence of seropositivity as a percentage and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep was 17.38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.59%-19.17%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in sheep ranged from 15.04% (95% CI: 7.68%-22.40%) to 19.14% (95% CI: 15.51%-22.77%), depending on region. The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in goats was 22.60% (95% CI: 19.54%-25.66%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in goats ranged from 6.33% (95% CI: 2.96%-9.71%) to 55.13% (95% CI: 49.61%-60.65%), depending on the region. The prevalence estimates also varied significantly in both sheep and goats depending on age, sex, and rearing systems of the animals (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Seroprevalence of coxiellosis in both sheep and goats is considerable. Routine monitoring of the sheep and goat populations is needed to prevent spillover infection in other livestock and humans.

Flock level socio-economic and other associated risk factors for Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) exposure in sheep and goats in Madhya Pradesh state, India.

To effectively control and eradicate PPR, the comprehensive understanding of risk factors associated with PPR exposure is vital. Hence, this study investigated socioeconomic and other associated risk determinants for PPR exposure at flock level in sheep and goats in a non-vaccination programme implemented Madhya Pradesh state India. A total of 410 sheep and goat flocks, comprised mostly of goats but also some mixed flocks, were surveyed during 2016 using a multistage random sampling procedure. Further, 230 blood samples were also collected from the farmers-reported PPR affected flocks and sera were tested using c-ELISA to confirm PPR exposure. The primary data on socioeconomic factors, farm management factors, health status, vaccination details and other epidemiological risk factors were collected from flock owners and descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis and logistic regression models were fitted to identify the significant risk factors for PPR incidence. The farmer's education, flock size, rearing pattern, and awareness of PPR vaccination were found to be significant pre-disposing risk factors for PPR exposure in the flocks. Hence, the control and eradication strategy need to be designed comprehensively considering the key social factors like education and vaccination awareness along with other flock level risk factors to eradicate PPR by 2030 in consonance with the global plan.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus prevalence in livestock of Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Central India and its implications for public health.

The rise of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), poses a significant global health challenge, urging immediate action and continuous surveillance. With no available vaccines, monitoring pathogen presence is critical to identify at-risk areas promptly. A study was designed to assess the incidence of CCHF virus in goats and cattle using commercial ELISA IgG kits in tribal-dominated regions. Overall, 16% of the samples (n = 63/393) were positive for CCHF virus-specific IgG antibodies, whereas sero-prevalence detected in cattle 11.6% [95% CI:7-17.7] and in goats 18.9% [95% CI: 13.76-24.01], respectively. Statistically, Animal gender and age didn't significantly affect prevalence (p-value >0.05). Our finding indicates unnoticed CCHF virus circulation. Notably, lack of public awareness about zoonotic diseases in the study region was recorded. To combat this emerging tick-borne disease effectively, it's crucial to screen individuals with hemorrhagic manifestations in healthcare settings and active surveillance of ticks to prevent unwarranted public health outbreaks and design preventive interventions.

Goat flock abortion: a retrospective study at Abergelle Agricultural Research Center, Tigray, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Small ruminants are the principal component of livestock production in Tigray region, Ethiopia. But their productivity is affected by various factors. According to farmers and expert observation, goat abortion is among the leading causes of production losses in Tanqua-Abergelle district. However, study findings that examine the extent of distribution and economic impact of abortion cases in goats in the district are scarce. This retrospective study investigated the occurrence of abortion and its associated risk factors in three goat breed types at Abergelle Agricultural Research Center goat breeding site over a seven year period. The study included a total of does above one year old, and data were collected from a casebook that was specifically prepared for abortion cases. A thorough follow up was conducted to identify abortion cases. Additionally, a community survey was conducted in selected villages where the research center is located. RESULTS: The overall abortion proportion was 29.8% in the goat farm. Begait goat breeds had the highest abortion proportion (50.9%, CI 0.36-0.64) in 2015/16. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified year, season, age and breed as major risk factors of abortion occurrence at flock level. Accordingly, the likelihood of goats experiencing abortion during the dry season (proportion = 34) was 1.87 times higher compared to those in the wet season (proportion = 22.8). Begait breeds had a higher incidence of abortion (proportion 37.5%, OR 4.87, CI 2.49-10.35) compared to other breeds. Age was negatively associated with abortion, suggesting that older goats (OR = 0.67) had a higher relative risk than younger goats (OR = 0.57). Moreover, the study noted a high incidence of abortion during the years 2014/15 to 2016/17 (proportion = 35.7-39.7). Within-breed analysis revealed that age and season were significant risk factors for Abergelle and Begait breeds, respectively by using a multivariate logistic regression analysis. A community survey indicated that 89.7% households responded their goats experienced abortion. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlighted the high prevalence of goat abortion at Abergelle and identifies important risk factors associated with its occurrence. The findings can inform targeted interventions to reduce abortion rates and improve goat productivity in the district.

Peste des petits ruminants virus infection induces endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis via IRE1-XBP1 and IRE1-JNK signaling pathways.

BACKGROUND: Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a contagious and fatal disease of sheep and goats. PPR virus (PPRV) infection induces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated unfolded protein response (UPR). The activation of UPR signaling pathways and their impact on apoptosis and virus replication remains controversial. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the role of PPRV-induced ER stress and the IRE1-XBP1 and IRE1-JNK pathways and their impact on apoptosis and virus replication. METHODS: The cell viability and virus replication were assessed by 3-(4,5-Dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay, immunofluorescence assay, and Western blot. The expression of ER stress biomarker GRP78, IRE1, and its downstream molecules, PPRV-N protein, and apoptosis-related proteins was detected by Western blot and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, respectively. 4-Phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) and STF-083010 were respectively used to inhibit ER stress and IRE1 signaling pathway. RESULTS: The expression of GRP78, IRE1α, p-IRE1α, XBP1s, JNK, p-JNK, caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax and PPRV-N were significantly up-regulated in PPRV-infected cells, the expression of Bcl-2 was significantly down-regulated. Due to 4-PBA treatment, the expression of GRP78, p-IRE1α, XBP1s, p-JNK, caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax, and PPRV-N were significantly down-regulated, the expression of Bcl-2 was significantly up-regulated. Moreover, in PPRV-infected cells, the expression of p-IRE1α, p-JNK, Bax, and PPRV-N was significantly decreased, and the expression of Bcl-2 was increased in the presence of STF-083010. CONCLUSIONS: PPRV infection induces ER stress and IRE1 activation, resulting in apoptosis and enhancement of virus replication through IRE1-XBP1s and IRE1-JNK pathways.

Individual genomic loci, transcript level, and biochemical profile of immune and antioxidant markers associated with genetically identified bacterial mastitis in Shami goats in Egypt.

Background: Mastitis in goats is unquestionably a grave concern, with far-reaching implications for both animal well-being and productivity, while also presenting a potential threat to public health. Aim: The study aimed to compare culture methods and multiplex PCR (m-PCR) in the detection of the most three common mastitis-causing pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus spp.) and investigate the gene expression, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), serum concentrations of immunological and antioxidant indicators linked to mastitis in Shami goats. Methods: One hundred Shami do (50 Shami goats with clinical mastitis and 50 normal goats taken as control group). The culture methods and m-PCR analysis were used to find the bacteria in the milk samples. Blood samples were obtained to assess some hemato-biochemical parameters, detect SNPs, and determine the expression of certain immunological and antioxidant indicators in the genes. Results: The culture method detected the pathogens causing mastitis in 90% of the milk samples, but m-PCR detected them in 100% of the milk samples. SNPs linked to mastitis resistance/susceptibility in examined does were detected through DNA sequencing of immunological and antioxidant indicators. The magnitude of gene expression varied significantly between the resistant and mastitis-affected groups. Significant (P ˂ 0.05) elevations were noticed in WBCs count, mainly neutsrophils count, serum levels of BHB, NEFA, triglycerides, LDL-C, AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine, total protein, globulin, Ca, K, GPx, MDA, acute phase proteins, and cytokines in mastitis affected does as compared to control. While RBCs count, PCV%, lymphocytes count, serum concentration of glucose, cholesterol, HDL-C, albumin, Na, Cl, P, GSH, SOD, and catalase significantly (P ˂ 0.05) diminished in mastitis affected does compared to healthy ones. APPs and pro-inflammatory cytokines scored high sensitivities and NPVs but TNF-α and serum amyloid A (SAA) had the highest percentages of increase. Conclusion: The study confirmed that m-PCR is the most sensitive method for bacteria identification (S. aureus, E. coli, and Strept. spp.) while SNPs in antioxidant and immunological genes may be important genetic indicators for mastitis risk or resistance in Shami does. To establish an effective management plan and forecast the most sensitive risk time for illness onset, gene expression profiles of the tested genes may also be employed as proxy biomarkers. TNF-α and SAA may be precious indicators for the detection of caprine mastitis.

Post-Vaccination Sero-Monitoring of Peste des Petits Ruminants in Sheep and Goats in Karnataka: Progress towards PPR Eradication in India.

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) presents economic challenges in enzootic countries impacting small ruminant productivity. The state of Karnataka, India, implemented a mass vaccination campaign in alignment with the PPR-Global Eradication Programme (GEP) and the National Strategic Plan for PPR eradication. This study was conducted from January to March 2023 to assess seroconversion in post-vaccinated goats and sheep at the epidemiological unit (epi-unit) level, aligning with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) guidelines in the PPR Global Control and Eradication Strategy (GCES). Before vaccination, 3466 random serum samples were collected from small ruminants of three age groups (6-12 months, 1-2 years, and >2 years) across 116 epi-units, spanning 82 taluks in 28 districts. Post-vaccination sero-monitoring included 1102 serum samples collected from small ruminants of the 6-12-month age group only, across 111 epi-units covering 64 taluks in 23 districts. The PPRV antibody status was determined using an indigenous hemagglutinin (H) protein monoclonal antibody-based competitive ELISA kit. Pre-vaccination, the PPR seropositivity rates were 55%, 62%, and 66% in the age groups of 6-12 months, 1-2 years, and >2 years, respectively, with a 61% PPRV antibody prevalence across all the age groups. Notably, 41% of the epi-units exhibited antibody prevalence rates of ≥70%, indicating a substantial population immunity, possibly attributed to the previous vaccination program in the state since 2011. In contrast, only 17% of the epi-units had below 30% seroprevalence rates, emphasizing the need for intensified vaccination. Statistical analysis of the data revealed significant correlations (p < 0.05) between the presence of PPRV antibodies and host factors such as species, breed, and sex. Post-vaccination seroprevalence in the 6-12 months age group was found to be 73.4%, indicating the use of an efficacious vaccine. On the evaluation of vaccination immunity in the 6-12 months age group, it was revealed that over 69% of the epi-units achieved a response surpassing ≥70%, indicating a significant improvement from 42% of the epi-units in pre-vaccination. For active PPR eradication, a mass vaccination campaign (>95% coverage) targeting small ruminant populations aged >4 months is advocated, aiming to achieve the desired herd immunity of >80%. This study offers crucial insights into PPR baseline seroprevalence/immunity status and vaccine efficacy, guiding national strategies towards a PPR-free India and further supporting the global eradication initiative.

Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance profiles of mastitis causing bacteria isolated from dairy goats in Mukurweini Sub-County, Nyeri County, Kenya.

BACKGROUND: Ruminant mastitis continues to be a cause of economic losses in the dairy industry and remains a major public health hazard globally. OBJECTIVES: This cross-sectional study was carried out in Mukurweini Sub-County of Nyeri County, Kenya, to investigate the prevalence of bacteria causing mastitis, risk factors associated with goat mastitis and the antibiotic resistance profiles of bacteria isolated from the goat milk. METHODS: Farm level data on risk factors for mastitis was obtained from 56 farmers using a semi structured questionnaire. A total of 189 goat milk samples were collected. The goat's udder was observed for signs of clinical mastitis and the California Mastitis Test (CMT) used to test the milk for sub-clinical mastitis. All samples were then cultured for morphological identification of bacteria and strain typing by Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI)-Time of Flight (ToF) technique. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolated Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS), Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, Pseudomonas spp., Enterobacter spp., Proteus vulgaris and Escherichia vulneris to eight commonly used antibiotics was done by the disc diffusion method and validated by determining the presence of antibiotic resistance genes (mecA and blaTEM) using polymerase chain reaction method. RESULTS: The prevalence of clinical mastitis was 1.1% (2/189) while that of sub-clinical mastitis was 84.7% (160/189). Higher (p < 0.05) prevalence of mastitis was observed in goats whose houses were cleaned fortnightly and in cases where farmers used same towel to dry different does' udders during the milking process. Thirteen different bacterial species were isolated from the milk samples and identified by MALDI-ToF, and these included S. aureus (22.0%), CoNS (20.3%), E. coli (18.1%), Pseudomonas spp. (14.3%), Enterobacter spp. (10.4%), K. oxytoca (6.0%), E. vulneris (1.7%), P. vulgaris (1.7%), Raoutella ornithinolytica (1.7%), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (1.1%), Pantoea agglomerans (1.1%), Serratia marcescens (1.1%) and Cedeceas spp. (0.6%). One hundred pathogenic bacterial isolates were randomly selected and tested for antibiotic sensitivity to eight antibiotics out of which S. aureus were 97.5% resistant to Oxacillin and 100% sensitive to Ciprofloxacin. The CoNSs were 100% resistant to Oxacillin and 100% sensitive to Ciprofloxacin. E. coli were 93.9% resistant to Oxacillin, 69.7% sensitive to Ciprofloxacin and 87.9% sensitive to both Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid and Meropenem. The antimicrobial resistant genes detected in S. aureus and E. coli were mecA [66.7%, 0%], and blaTEM [20% and 78.3%], respectively. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the study showed that most of the does were affected by subclinical mastitis with the main causative bacteria being Staphylococci spp. and coliforms. Farmers need to be trained on improved control of mastitis by adoption of good milking practices and use of CMT kit for early detection of mastitis. Occurrence of multidrug resistance by key mastitis causing pathogens was shown to be prevalent and therefore there is need for development of intervention strategies.

Plasminogen activator urokinase interacts with the fusion protein and antagonizes the growth of Peste des petits ruminants virus.

Peste des petits ruminants is an acute and highly contagious disease caused by the Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV). Host proteins play a crucial role in viral replication. However, the effect of fusion (F) protein-interacting partners on PPRV infection is poorly understood. In this study, we found that the expression of goat plasminogen activator urokinase (PLAU) gradually decreased in a time- and dose-dependent manner in PPRV-infected goat alveolar macrophages (GAMs). Goat PLAU was subsequently identified using co-immunoprecipitation and confocal microscopy as an F protein binding partner. The overexpression of goat PLAU inhibited PPRV growth and replication, whereas silencing goat PLAU promoted viral growth and replication. Additionally, we confirmed that goat PLAU interacted with a virus-induced signaling adapter (VISA) to antagonize F-mediated VISA degradation, increasing the production of type I interferon. We also found that goat PLAU reduced the inhibition of PPRV replication in VISA-knockdown GAMs. Our results show that the host protein PLAU inhibits the growth and replication of PPRV by VISA-triggering RIG-I-like receptors and provides insight into the host protein that antagonizes PPRV immunosuppression.IMPORTANCEThe role of host proteins that interact with Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) fusion (F) protein in PPRV replication is poorly understood. This study confirmed that goat plasminogen activator urokinase (PLAU) interacts with the PPRV F protein. We further discovered that goat PLAU inhibited PPRV replication by enhancing virus-induced signaling adapter (VISA) expression and reducing the ability of the F protein to degrade VISA. These findings offer insights into host resistance to viral invasion and suggest new strategies and directions for developing PPR vaccines.

Structural and sequence analysis of the RPO30 gene of sheeppox and goatpox viruses from India.

Sheeppox and goatpox are transboundary viral diseases of sheep and goats that cause significant economic losses to small and marginal farmers worldwide, including India. Members of the genus Capripoxvirus (CaPV), namely Sheeppox virus (SPPV), Goatpox virus (GTPV), and Lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), are antigenically similar, and species differentiation can only be accomplished using molecular approaches. The present study aimed to understand the molecular epidemiology and host specificity of SPPV and GTPV circulating in India through sequencing and structural analysis of the RNA polymerase subunit-30 kDa (RPO30) gene. A total of 29 field isolates from sheep (n = 19) and goats (n = 10) belonging to different geographical regions of India during the period: Year 2015 to 2023, were analyzed based on the sequence and structure of the full-length RPO30 gene/protein. Phylogenetically, all the CaPV isolates were separated into three major clusters: SPPV, GTPV, and LSDV. Multiple sequence alignment revealed a highly conserved RPO30 gene, with a stretch of 21 nucleotide deletion in all SPPV isolates. Additionally, the RPO30 gene of the Indian SPPV and GTPV isolates possessed several species-specific conserved signature residues/motifs that could act as genotyping markers. Secondary structure analysis of the RPO30 protein showed four α-helices, two loops, and three turns, similar to that of the E4L protein of vaccinia virus (VACV). All the isolates in the present study exhibited host preferences across different states of India. Therefore, in order to protect vulnerable small ruminants from poxviral infections, it is recommended to take into consideration a homologous vaccination strategy.

Seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii in sheep and goats of North West Province, South Africa.

BACKGROUND: The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii causes toxoplasmosis, one of the most prevalent parasitic zoonotic diseases with significant economic and public health implications worldwide. Infection with the parasite has a significant adverse effect on sheep and goat production and can frequently go undetected in the herd, resulting in abortions and weak or dead offspring. Although there are few studies on seroprevalence and risk factors associated with T. gondii infections in livestock in other provinces of South Africa, there is no data in the North West province. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and risk factors associated with exposure in sheep and goats of the North West province of South Africa. Sera from 439 livestock (164 sheep and 285 goats) were collected and analysed for the presence of T. gondii IgG antibodies using indirect ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). An assessment of potential risk factors in farms associated with seropositivity was also conducted using a structured questionnaire. RESULTS: Out of the 439 tested sheep and goats, 13.9% (61/439) were positive for IgG antibodies against T. gondii. Sheep and goats had seroprevalences of 19.5% (32/164) and 10.5% (29/275) respectively. In the multivariable logistic regression model, the risk of acquiring T. gondii was significantly higher in the mixed breed [Odds ratio (OR) = 71.07; 95% confidence interval (CI): 266.8-1893.1; p < 0.011)] animals than white dorper sheep and in farms that burn or bury aborted material (OR = 42.04; CI: 179.9-982.5; p = 0.020) compared to those that only burn aborted material. The risk was lower for the farms in Kagisano-Molopo (OR = 0.00; CI: 0.0-25.4; p = 0.015) and Mahikeng (OR = 0.00; CI: 0.0-4.9; p < 0.001) local municipalities than Greater Taung local municipality, and for the animals that drink water from dams (OR = 0.03; CI: 0.2-58.8; p = 0.021) than those that drink from boreholes. CONCLUSION: The seroprevalence and risk factors associated with transmission observed show that T. gondii infection is widespread in sheep and goats of the North West province.

Seroprevalence and renal carriage of pathogenic Leptospira in livestock in Cotonou, Benin.

BACKGROUND: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease. It is particularly prevalent in tropical countries and has major consequences for human and animal health. In Benin, the disease's epidemiology remains poorly understood, especially in livestock, for which data are lacking. OBJECTIVES: To characterise Leptospira seroprevalence and locally circulating serogroups in livestock from Cotonou and to estimate the prevalence of Leptospira renal carriage in cattle. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in February 2020 during which livestock were sampled at an abattoir and in an impoverished city district. We analysed blood samples from 279 livestock animals (i.e. cattle, sheep, goats and pigs) using the microscopic agglutination test. Additionally, samples of renal tissue from 100 cattle underwent 16s rRNA (rrs) real-time PCR analysis. RESULTS: For the 131 cattle, 85 sheep, and 50 goats tested, seroprevalence was 18% (95% confidence interval [CI] [12%, 26%]), 9% (95% CI [4%, 17%] and 2% (95% CI [0%, 9%]), respectively, and most of the seropositive animals were associated with 1:100 titres. All 13 pigs were seronegative. Leptospira DNA was found in the renal tissue of 10% (95% CI [5%, 18%]) of the cattle tested (n = 100). Leptospira borgpetersenii was the main species present (n = 7), but Leptospira interrogans (n = 2) and Leptospira kirschneri (n = 1) were also detected. Various serogroups (Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Sejroe, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona, Pyrogenes, Australis and Autumnalis) were detected using microscopic agglutination test without a clear predominance of any of them. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that abattoir workers and people living in close contact with livestock in poor urban areas are exposed to the risk of Leptospira infection.

Orbital shape in goat and sheep: Symmetric analysis.

The aim of this study is to evaluate orbital symmetry in goat and sheep skulls. For this purpose, a total of 83 skulls, including 50 sheep and 33 goat skulls, were used in the study. Geometric morphometry method was applied. For symmetric analysis, one side of each orbit was photographed twice and mirror images were created. There were 36 landmards marked to determine the outer limit of the orbita. As a result of the study, asymmetric components (fluctuating asymmetry and directional asymmetry) for shape were statistically significant in both goats and sheep (p < 0.0001). The first three principal components explained 52.558% of the total shape variation in goats and 61.245% in sheep. This value for symmetric components was 59.095% and 67.742% for goats and sheep, respectively, and 66.791% and 71.154% for asymmetric components. As a result of discriminant function analysis, right and left orbital shapes showed grouping characteristics with similar success rates according to species. Although limited, the right orbit in goats (100%) and the left orbit in sheep (96.5%) were grouped more accurately.

Isolation of Burkholderia pseudomallei from a goat in New Caledonia: implications for animal and human health monitoring and serological tool comparison.

BACKGROUND: Melioidosis is a serious bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, a gram-negative bacterium commonly found in soil and water. It can affect both humans and animals, and is endemic in regions such as Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. In recent years, there have been reports of an emergence of human melioidosis in other areas, including New Caledonia. RESULTS: During standard laboratory analysis in New Caledonia in 2021, a strain of B. pseudomallei was isolated from a goat. The strain was characterized using both MLST and WGS techniques and was found to cluster with previously described local human strains from the area. In parallel, several serological tests (CFT, ELISA, Luminex (Hcp1, GroEL, BPSS1840), arrays assay and a latex agglutination test) were performed on animals from the farm where the goat originated, and/or from three other neighboring farms. Using two commercial ELISA kits, seropositive animals were found only on the farm where the infected goat originated and tests based on recombinant proteins confirmed the usefulness of the Hcp1 protein for the diagnosis of melioidosis in animals. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the regular reports of human cases, this is the first confirmed case of melioidosis in an animal in New Caledonia. These results confirm the presence of the bacterium in the region and highlight the importance of vigilance for both animal and human health. It is critical that all health partners, including breeders, veterinarians, and biologists, work together to monitor and prevent the spread of the disease.

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in family farming goats from the Luracatao Valley, Salta, Argentina.

Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infections are important causes of abortion in ruminants. The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and frequency of T. gondii and N. caninum titers in goats raised by family farmers in the Luracatao Valley of Salta province, Argentina. A total of 259 serum samples were collected from adult goats in 42 family farms in nine communities and tested for indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT, cut-off 1:100). Seroprevalences were 34.36% (89/259) for T. gondii and 64.09% (166/259) for N. caninum. Co-infection was found in 25.86% (67/259) of the goats tested. The most frequent IFAT titer of T. gondii found was 100 (23.93%; 62/259), and only 2% (5/259) of the goats presented titer 800. For N. caninum, the most frequent titers were 100 (25.86%; 67/259), and titers 200 (20.46%; 53/259) and 400 (14.61%, 38/259). The titers found for T. gondii could suggest a chronic infection in goats, being of importance for the region due to meat consumption and cheese production. The elevated seroprevalence of N. caninum identified in this study may be attributed to the community-specific dog population and the close interaction between dogs and goats, despite the absence of a statistically significant association. Subsequent research is warranted to assess the productive implications of T. gondii and N. caninum.

Molecular and haematological investigations on Anaplasma ovis infection in goats in Ahvaz, Iran: Insights into infection rate, haemolytic effect and breed influences.

BACKGROUND: Anaplasma ovis (A. ovis) is the predominant causative agent of anaplasmosis in goats and sheep in most tropical and subtropical regions of the world. However, there is considerable variation in reported infection rates, breed susceptibility, and controversial findings regarding the haemolytic effects of A. ovis infection in goats. OBJECTIVES: Thus, we investigated the molecular and haematological aspects of A. ovis infection in goats from Ahvaz city. METHODS: One hundred and fifty apparently healthy goats (74 blacks and 76 Najdi goats) were randomly sampled from six flocks in the Ahvaz suburb during ticks' activity season. Haematological evaluation, smear microscopic (SM) examination and PCR assay were performed to assess A. ovis infection. Additionally, the percentage of parasitemia was determined from blood smears. RESULTS: SM examination revealed that 25.7% of the goats displayed erythrocyte Anaplasma-like inclusion bodies. PCR analysis indicated that 54% of the goats were positive for A. ovis infection (44.6% of blacks and 63.2% of Najdi goats). No significant difference in haematological values was observed between healthy and infected goats based on PCR testing. However, a significant difference in haematological indices was observed between the group with parasitemia level of 0.01-0.02% (SM and PCR positive) compared to the healthy goats (SM and PCR negative), particularly concerning Hb, PCV and RBC count (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: When the parasitemia exceeds 0.01%, A. ovis infection may disrupt haematological parameters in infected goats. The high prevalence of A. ovis infection (54%) among the studied goats underscores the importance of giving special attention to implementing necessary measures for disease control in the Ahvaz suburb.

Use of a local anaesthetic and antiseptic wound formulation for the treatment of lambs naturally infected with Orf virus.

Contagious ecthyma (CE) is a worldwide highly contagious zoonotic viral skin disease of sheep and goats. Treatment for Orf virus (ORFV) infection usually involves topical and oral antibiotics. An anaesthetic and antiseptic topical gel (Multisolfen® or Tri-Solfen®; MS®, Medical Ethics, Australia) has been documented as an efficacious therapy for lesions from mucosal and epithelial viral infections in ruminants. The present study tested a new treatment protocol of MS® for CE therapy on-farm in 150 lambs naturally infected with ORFV. Lambs were divided into three cohorts of 50 lambs each (C, D and E). Cohort C was treated with MS® 3 times with an interval of 3 days between treatments, cohort D was treated daily with hypochlorous acid, whilst cohort E served as untreated controls. The lambs were examined clinically every two days, weight measured weekly, with whole blood and sterile swabs from ORFV lesions collected for haematological analysis and specific ORFV PCR. Cohort C presented fewer lambs displaying ORFV-associated lesions than other cohorts at different times of the experiment. Further, lesions treated with MS® were milder compared with other cohorts. However, following cessation of therapy, most of the lambs again developed ORFV-associated lesions. No differences between cohorts were observed in weight, haematological and PCR results. These findings suggest that topical treatment with MS® is effective for CE in field conditions, especially in the first stages of the clinical course, although treatment with MS® may need to be extended a minimum of 4 weeks.

Coxiella burnetii infection persistence in a goat herd during seven kidding seasons after an outbreak of abortions: the effect of vaccination.

Coxiella burnetii infection was monitored during seven kidding seasons (2017-2023) in a dairy goat herd that after an outbreak of Q fever abortions was vaccinated with an inactivated phase I vaccine. Due to the high infection rate just after the outbreak, only the replacement stock was vaccinated during the first three kidding seasons, and when the average herd immunity had decreased (fourth kidding season onwards), the whole herd was vaccinated. Vaginal swabs, feces, and milk were analyzed by PCR to monitor infection, and dust and aerosols were analyzed to measure C. burnetii environmental contamination. One year after the onset of the outbreak, a significant reduction in C. burnetii shedding loads was observed, but the percentage of shedding animals remained high until the third kidding season. By the seventh kidding season, no shedders were detected. The bacterial load excreted was significantly lower in vaccinated compared with unvaccinated animals, and in yearlings compared with multiparous. C. burnetii was detected by PCR in aerosols collected inside the animal premises throughout the study period except in the last season; whereas, aerosols collected outdoors tested negative in the last three kidding seasons. Viable C. burnetii was detectable in environmental dust collected inside the barn until the third kidding season following the outbreak. These results indicate that after an outbreak of Q fever, the risk of infection for humans and susceptible animals can remain high for at least three kidding seasons when the number of C. burnetii animal shedders is still high, even when bacterial excretion is low. IMPORTANCE: Q fever is a zoonosis distributed worldwide. Ruminants are the main reservoir, and infection can cause high rates of abortion. After entering a farm, Coxiella burnetii infection can persist in the animal population over several lambing/kidding periods. Once infection is established in a herd, vaccination with the inactivated Phase I vaccine significantly reduces bacterial shedding, but although at low levels, excretion may continue to occur for several lambing/kidding seasons. The time that C. burnetii remains viable in the farm environment after an outbreak of Q fever determines the period when risk of infection is high for the people in close contact. This work showed that this period extends at least three kidding seasons after the outbreak. These results provided valuable information on the epidemiology of C. burnetii infection in goat herds and may help to develop guidelines for controlling the disease and reducing infection risk for susceptible people and animals.

Molecular Epidemiology of Peste Des Petits Ruminants Virus in West Africa: Is Lineage IV Replacing Lineage II in Burkina Faso?

This study aimed at investigating the genetic lineages of peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) currently circulating in Burkina Faso. As part of PPR surveillance in 2021 and 2022, suspected outbreaks in different regions were investigated. A risk map was produced to determine high-risk areas for PPR transmission. Based on alerts, samples were obtained from three regions and all sampled localities were confirmed to fall within PPR high risk areas. We collected swab samples from the eyes, mouth, and nose of sick goats. Some tissue samples were also collected from dead animals suspected to be infected by PPRV. In total, samples from 28 goats were analysed. Virus confirmation was performed with RT-PCR amplification targeting the nucleocapsid (N) gene. Partial N gene sequencing (350 bp) was carried out using the RT-PCR products of positives samples to characterise the circulating lineages. Eleven sequences, including ten new sequences, have been obtained. Our study identified the presence of the PPRV lineage IV in the three studied regions in Burkina Faso with a genetic heterogeneity recorded for the sequences analysed. Previously published data and results of this study suggest that PPRV lineage IV seems to be replacing lineage II in Burkina Faso.

First Report of the Emergence of Peste des Petits Ruminants Lineage IV Virus in Senegal.

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious viral disease and one of the deadliest affecting wild goats, sheep, and small ruminants; however, goats are generally more sensitive. The causative agent is the Peste des Petits Ruminants virus (PPRV), which is a single-stranded RNA virus of negative polarity belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family. In February 2020, an active outbreak of PPR was reported in a herd of a transhumant farmer in the village of Gainth Pathé (department of Kounguel, Kaffrine region, Senegal). Of the ten swabs collected from the goats, eight returned a positive result through a quantitative real-time PCR. The sample that yielded the strongest signal from the quantitative real-time PCR was further analyzed with a conventional PCR amplification and direct amplicon sequencing. A phylogenetic analysis showed that the sequence of the PPR virus obtained belonged to lineage IV. These results confirm those found in the countries bordering Senegal and reinforce the hypothesis of the importance of animal mobility between these neighboring countries in the control of PPRV. In perspective, following the discovery of this lineage IV in Senegal, a study on its dispersion is underway throughout the national territory. The results that will emerge from this study, associated with detailed data on animal movements and epidemiological data, will provide appropriate and effective information to improve PPR surveillance and control strategies with a view to its eradication.