Ocorrência de Leishmania spp. na população canina domiciliada e humana de Três Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul e análise espacial / Occurrence of Leishmania spp. in canine domiciled and human population of Three Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul and spatial analysis / Presencia de Leishmania spp. em población humana y domiciliada canina de Tres Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul y análisis espacial

A Leishmaniose Visceral (LV), doença negligenciada de caráter crônico e sistêmico, causada pelo parasita Leishmania spp. representa um problema de Saúde Pública, principalmente em países com população vulnerável, como o Brasil. Devido à urbanização de grandes centros, cães infectados por este parasito representam um importante reservatório no ciclo urbano, precedem a doença humana e contribuem para a manutenção de casos de Leishmaniose Visceral Canina (LVC). O objetivo do estudo foi identificar a ocorrência de Leishmania spp. na população canina domiciliada e humana de Três Lagoas ­ MS, Brasil, pelo uso das técnicas de Dual Path Platform (DPP), Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI), Reação em Cadeia de Polimerase (PCR) e análise por georreferenciamento. Foram coletadas 566 amostras sanguíneas de cães. Além disso, informações epidemiológicas adicionais foram coletadas do sistema de saúde do município, e posteriormente, a análise espacial foi realizada. Como resultado obteve ­ se 267 amostras reagentes ao teste DPP, 267 amostras reagentes ao ELISA e 97 à RIFI, com 95% de concordância entre os métodos DPP e ELISA. Das amostras submetidas à PCR, 16 foram positivas para Leishmania spp. O uso do georreferenciamento para LVC canina em Três Lagoas forneceu subsídios para identificar áreas com prioridade de intervenção para o controle da doença. A presença de flebotomíneos, associado à localização geográfica, bem como às condições ambientais na região estudada, foram favoráveis à sua disseminação, bem como à transmissão da doença aos cães e a humanos.

Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), a neglected disease of chronic and systemic character, caused by the parasite Leishmania spp. represents a public health problem, especially in countries with vulnerable population, such as Brazil. Due to urbanization, dogs constitute an important reservoir in the disease's urban cycle, preceding human cases, and contributing to the maintenance of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis (CVL). However, few serological surveys added to the spatial analysis involving human and animal populations have been described in Três Lagoas. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the occurrence of Leishmania spp. in the human and domiciled canine population of Três Lagoas-MS, Brazil, using the techniques of Dual Path Platform (DPP), Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Indirect Immunofluorescence Reaction (RIFI), Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and spatial analysis. For this study, 566 blood samples were collected from dogs. In addition, epidemiological information was collected from the municipal health system, and subsequently, spatial analysis was performed. As a result, 267 samples were reactive to the DPP test, 267 reactive to ELISA and 97 reactive to RIFI, with 95% of agreement between the DPP and ELISA methods. Sixteen samples submitted to PCR were positive for Leishmania spp. The use of georeferencing for canine CVL in Três Lagoas provided subsidies to identify areas that needed priority intervention for the control of Leishmaniasis. The presence of sandflies, associated with the geographic location, as well as the environmental conditions in the studied region, favored their dissemination, as well as the transmission of the disease to dogs and humans.

La leishmaniosis visceral (LV), enfermedad desatendida de carácter crónico y sistémico, causada por el parásito Leishmania spp. representa un problema de salud pública, principalmente en países con población vulnerable, como Brasil. Debido a la urbanización de los grandes centros, los caninos constituyen un importante reservorio del ciclo urbano de la enfermedad, precediendo casos humanos, además de contribuir para el mantenimiento de casos de Leishmaniosis Visceral Canina (LVC). A pesar de ello, pocos estudios epidemiológicos sumados al análisis espacial involucrando la población humana y animal fueron descritos en el municipio de Três Lagoas. El objetivo del estudio fue identificar la ocurrencia de Leishmania spp. en la población canina domiciliada y la población humana de Três Lagoas ­ MS, Brasil, utilizando las técnicas de Dual Path Platform (DPP), Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), la Reacción de Immunofluorescencia Indirecta (RIFI), Reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) y análisis de georreferenciamiento. Para eso, fueron colectadas 566 muestras sanguíneas de caninos. Además, informaciones epidemiológicas adicional es fueron colectadas del sistema de salud del municipio para la realización del análisis espacial. Como resultados se obtuvieron 267 muestras positivas para DPP, 267 muestras positivas para ELISA y 97 muestras positivas para RIFI, con 95% de concordancia entre los métodos DPP y ELISA. De las 566 muestras destinadas para PCR, 16 fueron positivas para Leishmania spp. El uso del georreferenciamiento para LVC en Três Lagoas ayudó a identificar áreas con prioridad de intervención para el control de la enfermedad. La presencia de flebotomíneos, asociada a la localización geográfica, así como las condiciones ambientales en la región estudiada, se mostraron favorables para la diseminación y para la transmisión de la enfermedad a los caninos y humanos.

Diversity of Eimeria (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) species and risk factors associated in natural infecting calves at the Southern Agreste Microregion in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil / Diversidade de espécies de Eimeria (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) e fatores de risco associados à infecção natural em bezerros na microrregião sul do agreste no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil

Eimeria species have importance to calves because of the economic losses. The aim of this study was to identify the species of Eimeria that affect calves and the risk factors associated with its natural infection. Fecal samples (387) were collected from dairy farms in the southern Agreste of Pernambuco. The feces were evaluated using the Gordon & Whitlock technique and were cultured in 2.5% potassium dichromate for sporulation of oocysts. Odds ratio (OR) were calculated to assess risk factors. Eimeria spp. were detected in 50.65% (196/387) of the samples. Eleven species were identified, being Eimeria bovis (26.64%; 548/2057), Eimeria zuernii (19.69%; 405/2057) and Eimeria ellipsoidalis (14.49%; 298/2057) those more frequent. Small herds (OR = 1.93), calves aged up to six months (OR = 2.12), absence of manure pit (OR = 7.52), fortnightly cleaning (OR = 4.71), collective calf pens (OR = 3.26), manual milking (OR = 2.16) and absence of veterinary care (OR = 2.28) were considered to be risk factors. The data revealed pathogenic species in more than 50% of the farms. Thus, the importance of adopting sanitary measures to reduce the spread of these protozoa in herds should be done, because of economic losses associated with its infection.(AU)

Espécies do gênero Eimeria possuem grande importância para os bezerros devido às perdas econômicas. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar as espécies de Eimeria que acometem bezerros e os fatores de risco associados à infecção. Amostras fecais (387) foram coletadas de animais de fazendas leiteiras do Agreste Meridional de Pernambuco. As fezes foram avaliadas pela técnica de Gordon & Whitlock e realizada cultura em dicromato de potássio 2,5% para esporulação dos oocistos. Odds ratio (OR) foi calculada para avaliar os fatores de risco. Eimeria spp. foram detectadas em 50,65% (196/387) das amostras analisadas. Foram identificadas onze espécies, sendo E. bovis (26,64%; 548/2057), E. zuernii (19,69%; 405/2057) e E. ellipsoidalis (14,49%; 298/2057) as mais frequentes. Pequenos rebanhos (OR = 1,93), bezerros com idade de até seis meses (OR = 2,12), ausência de esterqueira (OR = 7,52), limpeza quinzenal (OR = 4,71), bezerreiros coletivos (OR = 3,26), ordenha manual (OR = 2,16) e ausência de assistência veterinária (OR = 2,28) foram considerados fatores de risco. Os dados revelaram espécies patogênicas em mais de 50% das propriedades. Dessa forma, ressalta-se a importância da adoção de medidas sanitárias, visando à diminuição da propagação desses protozoários nos rebanhos, e perdas econômicas associadas à infecção.(AU)

First record of Lagochilascaris minor (Nematoda: Ascarididae) in Leopardus geoffroyi (Carnivora: Felidae) in Brazil / Primeiro registro de Lagochilascaris minor (Nematoda: Ascarididae) em Leopardus geoffroyi (Carnivora: Felidae) no Brasil

Lagochilascariasis is a parasitic disease caused by nematodes of the genus Lagochilascaris. These parasites occur in the neotropical region and their definitive hosts are wild animals, domestic dogs and felids and, accidentally, humans. Here, infection by Lagochilascaris minor is recorded for the first time in a wild felid, in Brazil.(AU)

A lagochilascaríase é uma doença parasitária causada por nematoides do gênero Lagochilascaris. Com distribuição neotropical, este parasito tem como hospedeiros definitivos animais silvestres, canídeos e felídeos domésticos e, acidentalmente, seres humanos. Registra-se a primeira ocorrência de Lagochilascaris minor em um felídeo silvestre no Brasil.(AU)

First record of Ophiocordyceps dipterigena (Ascomycota: Hypocreales: Ophiocordycipitaceae) infecting adults of Melanagromyza sojae (Diptera: Agromyzidae) in Brazil / Primeiro registro de Ophiocordyceps dipterigena (Ascomycota: Hypocreales: Ophiocordycipitaceae) infectando adultos de Melanagromyza sojae (Diptera: Agromyzidae) no Brasil

This note is the first report on the infection of adult stage of Melanagromyza sojae Zehntner, 1900 (Diptera: Agromyzidae) by the entomopathogenic fungus Ophiocordyceps dipterigena (Hypocreales: Ophiocordycipitaceae) (Berk. & Broome) G. H. Sung, J.M. Sung, Hywel-Jones & Spatafora, in subtropical Brazil. Entomopathogenic fungi, which attack dipteran insects, are of great scientific and economic importance mainly due to their potential as biological control agents of insect pests. Our findings bring new perspectives on the geographical distribution and host range of Ophiocordyceps dipterigena. We emphasize the need of further studies and research on new biological control agents of agricultural pests such as the soybean stem miner fly.(AU)

Esta nota é o primeiro registro da infecção no estágio adulto de Melanagromyza sojae Zehntner, 1900 (Diptera: Agromyzidae) pelo fungo entomopatogênico Ophiocordyceps dipterigena (Hypocreales: Ophiocordycipitaceae) (Berk & Broome) G. H. Sung, J.M. Sung, Hywel-Jones & Spatafora, no Brasil subtropical. Fungos entomopatogênicos, que atacam dípteros, são de importância científica e econômica principalmente devido ao potencial como agentes de controle biológico de pragas de insetos. Este trabalho traz novas perspectivas sobre a distribuição geográfica e variação de hospedeiro de Ophiocordyceps dipterigena. Destacamos a necessidade de ampliar o conhecimento sobre novos agentes de controle biológico de pragas agrícolas como a mosca minadora do caule da soja.(AU)

Clinical, pathological and epidemiological aspects of outbreaks of bluetongue disease in sheep in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul / Aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos de surtos de língua azul em ovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul

This article describes the clinical, pathological and epidemiological aspects of 17 outbreaks of bluetongue (BT) disease in sheep occurring between December 2014 and July 2015 in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul state (RS), southern Brazil. Affected farms were visited for clinical examination, necropsy, sample collection and epidemiological investigation. The outbreaks were seasonal and occurred during the summer and autumn. A total of 180 sheep (20.4%) out of 884 in 17 small herds were affected. All ages of Texel and mixed breed sheep were affected. However, lambs (younger than one year) had higher morbidity than adult sheep. The most frequent clinical signs were anorexia, lethargy, loss of body condition, facial swelling mainly involving the lips, and greenish seromucous or mucous nasal discharge. Pulmonary lesions characterized by edema were the most prevalent findings; however, erosive and ulcerative lesions in the upper gastrointestinal tract, as well as cardiac, skeletal muscle and esophageal striated muscle necrosis, and hemorrhage in the pulmonary artery were also frequent. The bluetongue virus (BTV) genome was detected by RT-PCR in blood and tissue samples (spleen and lungs) of 21 animals from 17 outbreaks. The virus involved in the outbreak 3 was subsequently isolated and shown to belong to serotype 17, for the first time reported in Brazil. In summary, our data support the BTV genotype 17 as the etiological agent of the outbreaks and indicate that the central region of RS is an area at risk for BT in sheep, a disease previously not recognized in the region.(AU)

O objetivo deste artigo é descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e anatomopatológicos de 17 surtos de língua azul (BT) em ovinos, que ocorreram entre dezembro de 2014 a julho de 2015, na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Para isso, foram realizadas visitas as propriedades nas quais ocorreram surtos da doença para investigação epidemiológica e clínica, realização de necropsias e coleta de amostras. Os surtos foram sazonais e ocorreram durante o verão e outono. Em 17 pequenos rebanhos, de um total de 884 ovinos, 180 adoeceram (20,4%). Ovinos de todas as faixas etárias, da raça Texel e sem raça definida, foram acometidos. Entretanto, ovinos com menos de um ano de idade tiveram taxa de morbidade maior do que ovinos com um ano ou mais. Os sinais clínicos mais frequentes caracterizaram-se por anorexia, apatia, acentuada perda de peso, edema facial, envolvendo principalmente os lábios, e secreção nasal seromucosa ou muco-esverdeada. Lesões pulmonares, caracterizadas por edema, foram as mais prevalentes. Porém, lesões erosivas e ulcerativas no trato gastrointestinal superior, assim como necrose da musculatura cardíaca e esquelética e do músculo estriado do esôfago e hemorragia na artéria pulmonar foram frequentes. O genoma do BTV foi detectado por RT-PCR em amostras de sangue e tecidos (baço e pulmão) de 21 animais de 17 surtos. O vírus envolvido no surto 3 foi subsequentemente isolado e pertence ao sorotipo 17, que pela primeira vez é descrito no Brasil. Em síntese, nossos dados permitem concluir que o BTV é o agente causador dos surtos e indicam que a Região Central do RS é uma área de risco para a ocorrência de BT em ovinos, uma doença, até então, não reconhecida nessa região.(AU)

Clinical, pathological and epidemiological aspects of outbreaks of bluetongue disease in sheep in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul / Aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos de surtos de língua azul em ovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul

This article describes the clinical, pathological and epidemiological aspects of 17 outbreaks of bluetongue (BT) disease in sheep occurring between December 2014 and July 2015 in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul state (RS), southern Brazil. Affected farms were visited for clinical examination, necropsy, sample collection and epidemiological investigation. The outbreaks were seasonal and occurred during the summer and autumn. A total of 180 sheep (20.4%) out of 884 in 17 small herds were affected. All ages of Texel and mixed breed sheep were affected. However, lambs (younger than one year) had higher morbidity than adult sheep. The most frequent clinical signs were anorexia, lethargy, loss of body condition, facial swelling mainly involving the lips, and greenish seromucous or mucous nasal discharge. Pulmonary lesions characterized by edema were the most prevalent findings; however, erosive and ulcerative lesions in the upper gastrointestinal tract, as well as cardiac, skeletal muscle and esophageal striated muscle necrosis, and hemorrhage in the pulmonary artery were also frequent. The bluetongue virus (BTV) genome was detected by RT-PCR in blood and tissue samples (spleen and lungs) of 21 animals from 17 outbreaks. The virus involved in the outbreak 3 was subsequently isolated and shown to belong to serotype 17, for the first time reported in Brazil. In summary, our data support the BTV genotype 17 as the etiological agent of the outbreaks and indicate that the central region of RS is an area at risk for BT in sheep, a disease previously not recognized in the region.(AU)

O objetivo deste artigo é descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e anatomopatológicos de 17 surtos de língua azul (BT) em ovinos, que ocorreram entre dezembro de 2014 a julho de 2015, na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Para isso, foram realizadas visitas as propriedades nas quais ocorreram surtos da doença para investigação epidemiológica e clínica, realização de necropsias e coleta de amostras. Os surtos foram sazonais e ocorreram durante o verão e outono. Em 17 pequenos rebanhos, de um total de 884 ovinos, 180 adoeceram (20,4%). Ovinos de todas as faixas etárias, da raça Texel e sem raça definida, foram acometidos. Entretanto, ovinos com menos de um ano de idade tiveram taxa de morbidade maior do que ovinos com um ano ou mais. Os sinais clínicos mais frequentes caracterizaram-se por anorexia, apatia, acentuada perda de peso, edema facial, envolvendo principalmente os lábios, e secreção nasal seromucosa ou muco-esverdeada. Lesões pulmonares, caracterizadas por edema, foram as mais prevalentes. Porém, lesões erosivas e ulcerativas no trato gastrointestinal superior, assim como necrose da musculatura cardíaca e esquelética e do músculo estriado do esôfago e hemorragia na artéria pulmonar foram frequentes. O genoma do BTV foi detectado por RT-PCR em amostras de sangue e tecidos (baço e pulmão) de 21 animais de 17 surtos. O vírus envolvido no surto 3 foi subsequentemente isolado e pertence ao sorotipo 17, que pela primeira vez é descrito no Brasil. Em síntese, nossos dados permitem concluir que o BTV é o agente causador dos surtos e indicam que a Região Central do RS é uma área de risco para a ocorrência de BT em ovinos, uma doença, até então, não reconhecida nessa região.(AU)

Natural infection of phlebotomines (Diptera: Psychodidae) by Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis in an area of ecotourism in Central-Western Brazil

Background Bonito municipality, known as an area of ecoturism, in Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, is also a focus of visceral and cutaneous leishmaniases, with cases registered in both human and canine populations. This study sought to investigate natural infection by flagellate forms of Leishmania in phlebotomines of the urban area of Bonito.Findings Sand flies were collected fortnightly from October 2005 to July 2006 with modified automatic light traps installed in peridomiciles and animal shelters in the center and on the outskirts of the city. The females were dissected and their guts observed under an optical microscope. A total of 1977 specimens were captured, Lutzomyia longipalpis (88.4 %) and Bichromomyia flaviscutelata (3.0 %) being the most frequent species. Bi. flaviscutellata was found infected by flagellates that were identified as Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis by indirect immunofluorescence reaction, employing monoclonal antibodies and the biotin-avidin system. This is the first report of natural infection by L. amazonensis in Bi. flaviscutellata in a Brazilian urban area.Conclusions As Bi. flaviscutellata is only slightly attracted by humans, the transmission of L. amazonensis in the study area may have a zoonotic character; however, the sympatric occurrence of this parasite andLu. longipalpis should be taken into consideration by the local health authorities since this sand fly has already been found with L. amazonensis DNA in a focus of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Bonito municipality.(AU)

Natural infection of phlebotomines (Diptera: Psychodidae) by Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis in an area of ecotourism in Central-Western Brazil

Background Bonito municipality, known as an area of ecoturism, in Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, is also a focus of visceral and cutaneous leishmaniases, with cases registered in both human and canine populations. This study sought to investigate natural infection by flagellate forms of Leishmania in phlebotomines of the urban area of Bonito.Findings Sand flies were collected fortnightly from October 2005 to July 2006 with modified automatic light traps installed in peridomiciles and animal shelters in the center and on the outskirts of the city. The females were dissected and their guts observed under an optical microscope. A total of 1977 specimens were captured, Lutzomyia longipalpis (88.4 %) and Bichromomyia flaviscutelata (3.0 %) being the most frequent species. Bi. flaviscutellata was found infected by flagellates that were identified as Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis by indirect immunofluorescence reaction, employing monoclonal antibodies and the biotin-avidin system. This is the first report of natural infection by L. amazonensis in Bi. flaviscutellata in a Brazilian urban area.Conclusions As Bi. flaviscutellata is only slightly attracted by humans, the transmission of L. amazonensis in the study area may have a zoonotic character; however, the sympatric occurrence of this parasite andLu. longipalpis should be taken into consideration by the local health authorities since this sand fly has already been found with L. amazonensis DNA in a focus of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Bonito municipality.

Detection of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in wild animals in Brazil

Background Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide zoonosis caused by an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite,Toxoplasma gondii, that affects all warm-blooded animals, including wild animals. The increased number of cases of parasitic infections is mainly due to the destruction of environmental conservation areas, which is driving wild animals out of their habitats and towards urban areas. In this study, the occurrence of T. gondii infection was investigated by the modified agglutination test (MAT) in 26 different species of run over and injured wild animals that were treated at a Brazilian university veterinary hospital, from June 2007 to August 2008.Findings Of the studied animals, six (23.1%; CI95% 11.1-42.2%) had T. gondii antibodies, with titers equal to 10 (4; 66.7%) and 40 (2; 33.3%). The species Pseudalopex vetulus,Cerdocyon thous, Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris and Tapyrus terrestris had titers of 10, while Alouatta caraya and Puma concolor had titers of 40. There was no significant association regarding age, gender or purpose of care (p> 0.05).Conclusions Carnivorous, herbivorous and omnivorous wild animals are potential sentinels of human toxoplasmosis, especially when wild felids are present, maintaining the environmental contamination.(AU)

Detection of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in wild animals in Brazil

Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide zoonosis caused by an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, that affects all warm-blooded animals, including wild animals. The increased number of cases of parasitic infections is mainly due to the destruction of environmental conservation areas, which is driving wild animals out of their habitats and towards urban areas. In this study, the occurrence of T. gondii infection was investigated by the modified agglutination test (MAT) in 26 different species of run over and injured wild animals that were treated at a Brazilian university veterinary hospital, from June 2007 to August 2008. Of the studied animals, six (23.1%; CI95% 11.1-42.2%) had T. gondii antibodies, with titers equal to 10 (4; 66.7%) and 40 (2; 33.3%). The species Pseudalopex vetulus, Cerdocyon thous, Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris and Tapyrus terrestris had titers of 10, while Alouatta caraya and Puma concolor had titers of 40. There was no significant association regarding age, gender or purpose of care (p > 0.05). Carnivorous, herbivorous and omnivorous wild animals are potential sentinels of human toxoplasmosis, especially when wild felids are present, maintaining the environmental contamination.(AU)

Detection of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in wild animals in Brazil

Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide zoonosis caused by an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, that affects all warm-blooded animals, including wild animals. The increased number of cases of parasitic infections is mainly due to the destruction of environmental conservation areas, which is driving wild animals out of their habitats and towards urban areas. In this study, the occurrence of T. gondii infection was investigated by the modified agglutination test (MAT) in 26 different species of run over and injured wild animals that were treated at a Brazilian university veterinary hospital, from June 2007 to August 2008. Of the studied animals, six (23.1%; CI95% 11.1-42.2%) had T. gondii antibodies, with titers equal to 10 (4; 66.7%) and 40 (2; 33.3%). The species Pseudalopex vetulus, Cerdocyon thous, Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris and Tapyrus terrestris had titers of 10, while Alouatta caraya and Puma concolor had titers of 40. There was no significant association regarding age, gender or purpose of care (p > 0.05). Carnivorous, herbivorous and omnivorous wild animals are potential sentinels of human toxoplasmosis, especially when wild felids are present, maintaining the environmental contamination.

Frequency of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in tufted capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella nigritus) from an ecological station in the State of São Paulo, Brazil / Frequência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em macacos-prego (Cebus apella nigritus) de estação ecológica localizada no Estado de São Paulo

Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide zoonosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular parasite protozoan. A large percentage of animals presents specific antibodies caused by a previous exposition, resulting in a chronic infection. Felides are the definitive hosts and the other warm-blooded animals, including primates, are the intermediate hosts. This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of T. gondii infection in free-living tufted capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella nigritus) from an ecological station located on Mata de Santa Teresa, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. T. gondii antibodies were analyzed by modified agglutination test (MAT) in serum samples of 36 tufted capuchin monkeys, considering eight as cut-off titer. From the studied animals, 3/36 (8.33%; CI95% 3.0-21.9%) presented T. gondii antibodies, all with titer 32. No significative difference was observed relating to the sex (1/3 male and 2/3 female), and to the age (1/3 young and 2/3 adult) (P>0.05). Thus, these results demonstrate the presence of T. gondii antibodies in primates from São Paulo state.(AU)

A toxoplasmose é uma das zoonoses mais difundidas no mundo, causada pelo Toxoplasma gondii, um protozoário parasita intracelular obrigatório. Uma alta porcentagem de animais apresenta anticorpos específicos causados por exposição prévia, levando a uma infecção crônica. Os felídeos são os hospedeiros definitivos e outros animais homeotérmicos, incluindo os primatas, são os hospedeiros intermediários. Este estudo objetivou determinar a prevalência da infecção por T. gondii em macacos-prego (Cebus apella nigritus) de vida livre da Estação Ecológica localizada na Mata de Santa Teresa, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil. Anticorpos anti-T. gondii foram pesquisados pelo método de aglutinação direta modificada (MAT) em amostras de soro de 36 macacos-prego, utilizando-se o título oito como de corte. Dos animais estudados, 3/36 (8,33%; IC95% 3,0-21,9%) apresentaram anticorpos anti-T. gondii, todos com título 32. Nenhuma diferença significativa (P>0,05) foi observada com relação ao sexo (1/3 machos e 2/3 fêmeas), e à idade (1/3 jovens e 2/3 adultos). Assim, estes resultados demonstram alta prevalência de anticorpos anti-T. gondii em primatas no estado de São Paulo.(AU)

First report of Trypanosoma vivax outbreak in dairy cattle in São Paulo state, Brazil / Primeiro relato de surto por Trypanosoma vivax em vacas leiteiras no estado de São Paulo, Brasil

This is the first description of a Trypanosoma vivax outbreak in the state of São Paulo (municipality of Lins). Fever, jaundice, decreased milk production, weight loss, profuse diarrhea, abortion, anemia, leukocytosis and hyperfibrinogenemia were observed in the affected animals. Thirty-one cows and calves died out of a total of 1080 in the herd. Three cows showed neurological symptoms like dysmetria, ataxia, muscle weakness, ptyalism, lymph node enlargement and submandibular edema. Flagellated hemoparasites were observed in blood smears. The species was diagnosed as T. vivax by means of PCR. This T.vivax strain showed resistance to diaminazene aceturate and the infection spread quickly at the herd. From the ELISA test, 599 serum samples (98.36%) were positive for anti-T.vivax IgG antibodies. This outbreak occurred during a very dry period, which indicates that other factors were involved in the outbreak, such as absence of tabanids and large populations of Haematobia irritans and Stomoxys calcitrans. The increases in these populations may have been due to the use of biosolid waste from sugar and ethanol plants in the sugarcane plantations surrounding the dairy farm.(AU)

Esta é a primeira descrição de um surto de Trypanosomavivax ocorrido no Estado de São Paulo, no município de Lins. Animais acometidos apresentaram febre, icterícia, diminuição da produção de leite, perda de peso, diarreia profusa, abortos, anemia, leucocitose e hiperfibrigenemia. Foram registrados 31 óbitos de vacas e bezerros em 1.080 bovinos no total. Três vacas apresentaram sintomatologia nervosa, como dismetria, ataxia e fraqueza muscular, além de ptialismo, aumento de linfonodos e edema submandibular. Hemoparasitas flagelados foram observados em esfregaços sanguíneos, e a espécie de tripanossomo foi diagnosticada como T.vivax por PCR. A cepa de T. vivax mostrou ser resistente ao tratamento com aceturato de diaminozeno e a infecção disseminou rapidamente no rebanho. Pelo ELISA, observou-se que 98,36% (599) das amostras de soro colhidas apresentaram títulos positivos para IgG anti-T.vivax. O surto ocorreu em condições de baixa precipitação pluviométrica, fato que indica que outros fatores estavam envolvidos na ocorrência desse surto, como a ausência de tabanídeos e a grande presença de Haematobia irritans e Stomoxys calcitrans, cujo aumento populacional pode ser devido ao uso de resíduos de usinas de açúcar e álcool nos canaviais que circundavam a granja leiteira.(AU)

Coccidiose em cães e gatos do município de Andradina, estado de São Paulo, Brasil / Coccidiosisin dogs and cats at the Municipality of Andradina in the State of São Paulo, Brazil

A coccidiose é uma das mais frequentes enfermidades parasitárias em pequenos animais em todo o mundo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a ocorrência da infecção por Cystoisospora em cães e gatos no Município de Andradina, São Paulo. Durante os anos de 2007 a 2009, amostras fecais de 97 gatos e 93 cães foram processadas por meio das técnicas de flutuação em solução saturada de cloreto de sódio e sedimentação espontânea. As espécies foram identificadas por morfometria dos oocistos. Oocistos fecais de Cystoisospora foram encontrados em 71,1% (69/97) dos gatos, sendo que infecção simples por C. rivoltaou por C. felis ocorreu, respectivamente, em 41,0% (16/39) e em 20,5% (8/39) dos animais, com P≥0,2319. Em 39,7% (37/93) dos cães foi detectada positividade para Cystoisospora spp., sendo a espécie C. canis identificada na maior proporção (63,9%) com P=0,0005. A partir dos resultados obtidos, nós concluímos que cães e gatos tiveram elevada ocorrência de infecção por Cystoisospora, sendo C. canis e C. rivolta as espécies mais observadas, respectivamente.(AU)

Coccidiosis is one of the most common parasitic diseases in dogs and cats in all the world. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of this parasitosis in dog and cat population at the Municipality of Andradina in the State of São Paulo, from 2007 to 2009. Fecal samples from 97 cats and 93 dogs were analyzed by using the techniques of flotation in saturated sodium chloride and spontaneous sedimentation. The species were classified according to morphology of the oocysts. Cystoisospora fecal oocyst found in 71.1% (69/97) of the cats, and simple infection by C. rivolta and C. felis occurred respectively in 41.0% (16/39) and 20.5% (8/39) animals, with P ≥ 0.2319. In 39.7%(37/93) of the dogs was found positive for Cystoisospora spp. And the species C. canis identified in the largest proportion (63.9%) with P = 0.0005. From the results, we conclude that dogs and cats had high incidence of infection Cystoisospora, being C. canis and C. rivolta most observed species, respectively.(AU)

Detecção molecular de Babesia vogeli (Piroplasmida: Babesiidae) e Ehrlichia canis (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) em carrapatos não ingurgitados coletados em ambiente peri-domiciliar em dois municípios da microrregião de Itaguaí, Rio de Janeiro

As babesioses e erliquioses caninas são transmitidas pelo carrapato Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.). Estes hemoparasitos são bem distribuídos no país, sendo a erliquiose mais frequente que babesiose. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a frequência de Ehrlichia canis e Babesia vogeli em carrapatos não alimentados coletados em dois municípios da microrregião de Itaguaí, Rio de Janeiro. Foram analisados 369 carrapatos R. sanguineus s.l., incluindo adultos (194), ninfas (92) e larvas (83). As amostras foram submetidos à extração de DNA pelo método de HotSHOT modificado. A detecção molecular de E. canis foi realizada através da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) com alvo no gene Disulfide oxidoreductase (dsb) de Ehrlichia spp., amplificando um fragmento de 409 pares de bases (pb). Para detecção de Babesia vogeli, as amostras foram testadas em uma PCR que amplifica um fragmento de 523pb do gene heat shock protein 70kDa (hsp70) de B. vogeli. Foi obtido um total de 41 (11,11%) amostras positivas para E. canis, sendo 11 (5,67%) adultos, 8 (8,69%) ninfas e 22 (26,5%) larvas (p<0,05). Em relação a B. vogeli foram observadas 24 (6,5%) de amostras positivas, sendo 9 (4,63%) adultos, 7 (7,6%) ninfas e 8 (9,63%) larvas. As análises epidemiológicas demonstraram que a frequência de B. vogeli foi maior na zona rural do que urbana (p<0,05), e também em locais onde os cães possuíam abrigos (P<0,05). Concluiu-se que os locais de maior prevalência de B. vogeli na região estão contidos mais na zona rural do que urbana e também onde há presença de abrigo para os cães. Na detecção de E. canis foi observada maior frequência do hemoparasito em Itaguaí do que Seropédica (p=0,01). O presente estudo demonstrou E. canis em larvas de R. sanguineus s.l. não alimentadas, reforçando a possibilidade de transmissão transovariana da bactéria, porém, são necessários mais estudos para demonstrar essa forma de transmissão no vetor.

Canine babesiosis and ehrlichiosis are transmitted by the brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.). These hemoparasites are well distributed in Brazil and the canine ehrlichiosis is more frequent than babesiosis. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of Ehrlichia canis and Babesia vogeli in unfed ticks from two counties of Itaguaí microregion, Rio de Janeiro. 369 R. sanguineus s.l. ticks were analyzed in peridomiciliary environment, including adults (194), nymphs (92) and larvae (83). The DNA samples were extracted through a HotSHOT modified method. The molecular detection of E. canis was made by a PCR that amplifies a 409 bp fragment of Disulfide oxidoreductase (dsb) gene of Ehrlichia spp. For B. vogeli detection, the samples were tested by a PCR that amplifies a 523 bp fragment of heat shock protein 70kDa (hsp70) gene. We obtained 41 (11.11%) positive samples for E. canis, 11 (5,67%) adults, 8 (8,69%) nymphs ans 22 (26,5%) larvae (p<0.05). From PCR of B vogeli, we obtained 24 (6,5%) positive samples, 9 (4,63%) adults, 7 (7,6%) nymphs and 8 (9,63%) larvae. The bivariate analysis showed significance for the presence of dogs shelter in relation to B. vogeli infection in ticks (p<0.05). The area of collection had statistical significance too. It demonstrated that ticks in rural areas are more likely to get infection by B. vogeli (p<0.05). We concluded that B. vogeli is more prevalent in rural areas and areas which the dog lives with shelter. The analysis of E. canis samples showed that the hemoparasite is more frequent in Itaguaí city than Seropédica (p=0,01). This study has shown the presence of E. canis in larvae of R. sanguineus s.l.. This event increases the possibility of transovarial transmission of the bacteria, however, more studies are necessary to demonstrate experimentally this kind of transmission in the tick vector.

Avaliação do potencial de transmissão vetorial do Trypanosoma cruzi no estado do Rio Grande do Norte: aspectos epidemiológicos e taxonômicos de triatomíneos (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae)

A infestação dos ecótopos artificiais por triatomíneos, as ações de controle vetorial, a infecção natural por tripanossomatídeos e a distribuição territorial desses vetores foram avaliadas nos municípios do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil, a partir dos dados disponibilizados pela Secretaria de Estado de Saúde Pública no período de 2005 a 2015 e no município de Caraúbas no período de 2010 a 2016. A fauna triatomínica silvestre, a infecção natural por tripanossomatídeos e a sua associação com a fonte de alimentação foram avaliadas na Estação Ecológica do Seridó, em Serra Negra do Norte. Além disso, a possibilidade da existência de híbridos naturais entre Triatoma brasiliensis e Triatoma petrocchiae também foi analisada morfologicamente e por sequenciamento do DNA mitocondrial, o citocromo b (Cyt b), e nuclear, o espaçador interno transcrito (ITS-1). Os dados mostraram que 67,7% (113/167) dos municípios realizaram a busca ativa e 110 registraram a ocorrência de triatomíneos nas unidades domiciliares (UDs). Os índices de colonização foram elevados ao logo dos anos pesquisados e, apesar disso, o número de UDs borrifadas foi inferior ao de positivas. Um total de 51.569 triatomíneos foi capturado, sendo T. brasiliensis (47,20%) e Triatoma pseudomaculata (40,22%) as espécies mais capturadas. A colonização intradomiciliar e peridomiciliar foi demonstrada pelas espécies T. brasiliensis, T. pseudomaculata, Panstrongylus lutzi e Rhodnius nasutus. A infecção natural por tripanossomatídeos foi detectada em 2,4% dos espécimes, sendo mais elevada em T. brasiliensis (3,2%). Em Caraúbas, as atividades de controle ocorreram de forma descontínua, e mesmo com a presença de ninfas, as UDs não foram borrifadas em 2013, 2014 e 2016. As espécies mais capturadas nos últimos anos foram T. brasiliensis (n = 244) e T. pseudomaculata (n = 315). Os dados primários revelaram a elevada infestação dos ecótopos peridomiciliares como galinheiro, curral e pilha de telhas, onde T. brasiliensis e T. pseudomaculata apresentaram elevados percentuais de infecção pelo T. cruzi. A espécie T. brasiliensis foi a mais eclética, sendo o Homo sapiens a fonte alimentar frequentemente identificada no intradomicílio e peridomicílio, enquanto para o T. pseudomaculata a fonte mais detectada foi Gallus gallus. No ambiente silvestre, T. brasiliensis foi encontrado em afloramentos de rochas, juntamente com espécimes de Triatoma sp., e T. pseudomaculata em troncos de árvores da espécie Anadenanthera colubrina. As fontes alimentares do T. brasiliensis foram os roedores Thrichomys apereoides (30%) e Galea spixii (30%). Nesse estudo nós registramos o primeiro encontro de Psammolestes tertius no estado, aumentando a área de distribuição geográfica dessa espécie. O P. lutzi apresentou o índice de infecção pelo T. cruzi mais elevado (64,8%), e o genótipo identificado foi TcIII. O Trypanosoma rangeli foi identificado em apenas um espécime dessa espécie. T. cruzi II e III foram detectados na espécie T. brasiliensis. Na análise morfológica, Triatoma sp. apresentou semelhança com o T. petrocchiae. A similaridade genética entre essas duas espécies foi demonstrada utilizando o marcador ITS-1, as quais formaram um único clado. Entretanto, na análise das sequências do Cytb, o Triatoma sp., T. brasiliensis e T. petrocchiae formaram clados distintos, sugerindo a existência de uma nova espécie, porém, é necessário a realização de outras análises para essa comprovação. O aumento dos índices de infestação e colonização dos triatomíneos, a presença desses vetores infectados e alimentados com sangue humano e de vários animais e, a circulação de animais silvestres infectados no ambiente antrópico, alerta para a possibilidade de transmissão do T. cruzi para o homem e animais domésticos. Os dados desse estudo reforçam que a VE e o controle vetorial nos municípios são imprescindíveis para evitar o contato de espécies como, T. brasiliensis, T. pseudomaculata e P. lutzi com a população e animais.

The infestation of the artificial ecotopes by triatomines, the vector control actions, the natural infection by trypanosomatids and the territorial distribution of these vectors were evaluated in the municipalities of the State of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, based on the temporal analysis of the data provided by the State Secretariat of Public Health in the period from 2005 to 2015 and in the municipality of Caraúbas in the period from 2010 to 2016. The wild triatomine fauna, the natural infection by trypanosomatids and their association with the food source were evaluated at the Seridó Ecological Station, in Serra Negra do Norte. In addition, the possibility of natural hybrids between Triatoma brasiliensis and Triatoma petrocchiae, was analyzed morphologically and by sequencing of mitochondrial DNA, cytochrome b (Cyt b), and nuclear, internal transcribed spacer (ITS-1). The data showed that 67,7% (113/167) of the municipalities performed the active search and 110 municipalities registered the occurrence of triatomines in the domiciliary units (DUs). Colonization rates were high during the surveyed years, and despite that, the number of DUs sprayed was lower than the positive ones. A total of 51.569 triatomines were captured, with T. brasiliensis (47,20%) and T. pseudomaculata (40,22%) being the most captured species. The indoor and outdoor colonization was demonstrated by the species T. brasiliensis, T. pseudomaculata, Panstrongylus lutzi and Rhodnius nasutus. The natural infection by trypanosomatids was detected in 2,4% of the specimens, being higher in T. brasiliensis (3,2%). In Caraúbas, the vector control activities occurred discontinuously, and even with the presence of nymphs, the DUs were not sprayed in 2013, 2014 and 2016. The most captured species in the last years were T. brasiliensis (n = 244) and T. pseudomaculata (n = 315). The primary data revealed the high infestation of outdoors ecotopes such as chicken coop, corral and pile of shingles, where T. brasiliensis and T. pseudomaculata presented high percentages of Trypanosoma cruzi infection. T. brasiliensis was the most eclectic species, with Homo sapiens being the food source frequently identified in the intradomicile and peridomicile, while for T. pseudomaculata the food source was Gallus gallus. In the wild environment, T. brasiliensis was found in rock outcrops, along with specimens of Triatoma sp., and T. pseudomaculata on tree trunks of the species Anadenanthera colubrina. The food sources of T. brasiliensis were the rodents Thrichomys apereoides (30%) and Galea spixii (30%). In this study, we recorded the first encounter of Psammolestes tertius in the state, expanding the geographic distribution of this species. P. lutzi presented the highest T. cruzi infection rate (64,8%) and the genotype identified was TcIII. Trypanosoma rangeli was identified in only one specimen of this species. T. cruzi II and III were detected in the species T. brasiliensis. The morphological analysis of Triatoma sp. presented similarity to T. petrocchiae. The genetic similarity between both species was demonstrated using the ITS-1 marker, which formed a single clade. Nevertheless, in the analysis of Cytb sequences, Triatoma sp., T. brasiliensis and T. petrocchiae formed distinct clades, suggesting the existence of a new species, however, further analysis are necessary for this confirmation. The increase of infestation and colonization rates of triatomines, the presence of these infected vectors fed with human blood and of several animals and the circulation of infected wild animals in the anthropic environment, point out the possibility of T. cruzi transmission to humans and domestic animals. The data of this study reinforce that ES and vector control in the municipalities are essential to avoid the contact of species, such as T. brasiliensis, T. pseudomaculata and P. lutzi, with the population and animals.

A new therherapeutic prrotocol f for dogs infectted with Trrypanosoma evansi

Background: Trypanosomosis is a disease caused by a flagellate protozoan known as Trypanosoma evansi, transmitted by hematophagous insects. It parasites showed a large diversity of mammalian hosts. Dogs may show clinical changes such as weight loss, progressive weakness, anorexia, anemia, intermittent fever, conjunctivitis, swelling of limbs and increased of superficial lymph nodes. Treatment of trypanosomosis relies on the use of diminazene aceturate which is effective for the treatment of disease in infected animals. However, a single dose of drug are not effective for horses, mules and dogs, since drug neither cross the blood-brain barrier or has insufficient doses to control the T. evansi infection. Therefore, the present study aimed to report the curative efficacy of a new therapeutic protocol, based on diminazene aceturate, for dogs infected with T. evansi. Case: The treatment against trypanosomosis was performed in a dog, male, two years old, from the municipality of Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil.. The animal showing clinical signs such as apathy, vomit, increase of left submandibular lymph node, edema of the left face and change of gait in the hind limbs when it was evaluated by veterinarians. The hematological and biochemical parameters revealed normocytic-hypochromic anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperglobulinemia and hypoalbuminemia. Trypomastigotes of T. evansi were identified in blood smears stained by panoptic method. The parasitism by T. evansi was confirmed by blood inoculation in two rats (xenodiagnosis) and by PCR T. evansi-specific. The canine was treated with diminazene aceturate (intramuscular injection) using a dose of 3.5 mg kg-1 for 5 days at 24h of intervals. After treatment the dog showed clinical signs of health improvement, and clinical signs disappeared after the seventh day of treatment. The parasite was not found in blood smears after the third day of treatment and PCR was negative on days 30 and 50 post-treatment. During the treatment signs of drug intoxication were not observed, as well as hepatic and renal functions were not affected. The animal showed normal biochemical and hematological parameters after 30 days of treatment. Discussion: In this study, the treatment tested was effective, leading to the cure of the disease. Previously, the same protocol was used for cats experimentally infected with T. evansi, obtaining 85.7% (6/7) of curative efficacy. In a comparative study of doses of diminazene aceturate in rats infected with T. evansi, inefficiency and death of rats treated with a single dose of 3.5 and 7.0 mg kg-1 were observed. In contrast, the cure in rats occurred when animals received a dose of 3.5 and 7.0 mg kg-1 during five consecutive days. The return of the parasitemia after treatment may be related to the impossibility of the medicament pass through the blood-brain barrier or the doses is insufficient. Our data reveal that five-dose protocol obtained higher efficiency because it provided greater passage of drug molecules through blood-brain barrier, which could eliminate the parasite from brain. After treatment, all clinical signs disappeared, biochemical and hematological parameters returned to normal levels, allowing us to conclude that this new protocol tested was effective to cure of this disease in dogs.

A new therherapeutic prrotocol f for dogs infectted with Trrypanosoma evansi

Background: Trypanosomosis is a disease caused by a flagellate protozoan known as Trypanosoma evansi, transmitted by hematophagous insects. It parasites showed a large diversity of mammalian hosts. Dogs may show clinical changes such as weight loss, progressive weakness, anorexia, anemia, intermittent fever, conjunctivitis, swelling of limbs and increased of superficial lymph nodes. Treatment of trypanosomosis relies on the use of diminazene aceturate which is effective for the treatment of disease in infected animals. However, a single dose of drug are not effective for horses, mules and dogs, since drug neither cross the blood-brain barrier or has insufficient doses to control the T. evansi infection. Therefore, the present study aimed to report the curative efficacy of a new therapeutic protocol, based on diminazene aceturate, for dogs infected with T. evansi. Case: The treatment against trypanosomosis was performed in a dog, male, two years old, from the municipality of Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil.. The animal showing clinical signs such as apathy, vomit, increase of left submandibular lymph node, edema of the left face and change of gait in the hind limbs when it was evaluated by veterinarians. The hematological and biochemical parameters revealed normocytic-hypochromic anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperglobulinemia and hypoalbuminemia. Trypomastigotes of T. evansi were identified in blood smears stained by panoptic method. The parasitism by T. evansi was confirmed by blood inoculation in two rats (xenodiagnosis) and by PCR T. evansi-specific. The canine was treated with diminazene aceturate (intramuscular injection) using a dose of 3.5 mg kg-1 for 5 days at 24h of intervals. After treatment the dog showed clinical signs of health improvement, and clinical signs disappeared after the seventh day of treatment. The parasite was not found in blood smears after the third day of treatment and PCR was negative on days 30 and 50 post-treatment. During the treatment signs of drug intoxication were not observed, as well as hepatic and renal functions were not affected. The animal showed normal biochemical and hematological parameters after 30 days of treatment. Discussion: In this study, the treatment tested was effective, leading to the cure of the disease. Previously, the same protocol was used for cats experimentally infected with T. evansi, obtaining 85.7% (6/7) of curative efficacy. In a comparative study of doses of diminazene aceturate in rats infected with T. evansi, inefficiency and death of rats treated with a single dose of 3.5 and 7.0 mg kg-1 were observed. In contrast, the cure in rats occurred when animals received a dose of 3.5 and 7.0 mg kg-1 during five consecutive days. The return of the parasitemia after treatment may be related to the impossibility of the medicament pass through the blood-brain barrier or the doses is insufficient. Our data reveal that five-dose protocol obtained higher efficiency because it provided greater passage of drug molecules through blood-brain barrier, which could eliminate the parasite from brain. After treatment, all clinical signs disappeared, biochemical and hematological parameters returned to normal levels, allowing us to conclude that this new protocol tested was effective to cure of this disease in dogs.(AU)

Aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e anatomopatológicos de surtos de língua azul em ovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul

Língua azul ou bluetongue (BT) é uma doença infecciosa causada pelo vírus da língua azul (BTV), que é transmitido por vetores hematófagos do gênero Culicoides e acomete ruminantes domésticos e selvagens, porém sua manifestação clínica é vista basicamente em ovinos. Atualmente, 26 sorotipos do BTV são conhecidos mundialmente. Entretanto, informações sobre a doença no Brasil são limitadas, com apenas dois sorotipos descritos. Pesquisas sorológicas revelam que o Rio Grande do Sul (RS) possui as menores taxas de prevalência de infecção entre os Estados brasileiros. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e anatomopatológicos de 17 surtos de BT em ovinos na Região Central do RS. Para isso foram realizadas visitas às propriedades em que ocorreram os surtos para investigação epidemiológica e clínica, realização de necropsias e coleta de amostras. Os surtos foram sazonais e ocorreram durante o verão e outono. Em 17 pequenos rebanhos, de um total de 884 ovinos, 180 adoeceram (20,4%). Ovinos de todas as faixas etárias, da raça Texel e sem raça definida, foram acometidos. Entretanto, ovinos com menos de um ano de idade tiveram taxa de morbidade maior do que ovinos com um ano ou mais. Os sinais clínicos mais frequentes caracterizaram-se por anorexia, apatia, acentuada perda de peso, edema facial, envolvendo principalmente os lábios, e secreção nasal seromucosa e esverdeada. Edema pulmonar, necrose da musculatura cardíaca e esquelética e do músculo estriado do esôfago foram as lesões mais prevalentes. Erosões e úlceras no trato gastrointestinal superior e hemorragia na artéria pulmonar também foram comuns. O genoma do BTV foi detectado por meio da RT-PCR em amostras de sangue, baço e pulmão de 21 animais dos 17 surtos. O vírus envolvido no surto 3 foi isolado e pertence ao sorotipo 17, que pela primeira vez é descrito no Brasil. A sorologia foi realizada pelo método de imunodifusão em gel de ágar e demonstrou que 17 dos 20 bovinos que estavam em contato com os ovinos infectados soroconverteram ao BTV. Em síntese, nossos dados permitem concluir que o BTV é o agente causador dos surtos e indicam que a Região Central do RS é uma área de risco para a ocorrência de BT em ovinos, uma doença, até então, não reconhecida nessa região.

Bluetongue (BT) is an infectious disease caused by bluetongue virus (BTV), which is transmitted by biting midges of the genus Culicoides, and affects domestic and wild ruminants, but its clinical manifestation is seen basically in sheep. Currently, 26 BTV serotypes are recognized worldwide. However, information about the disease in Brazil are limited, as only two BTV serotypes have been reported. Serological surveys reveal that Rio Grande do Sul (RS) has the lowest prevalence rates of infection among Brazilian states. This article describes the clinical, pathological and epidemiological aspects of 17 outbreaks of BT disease in sheep in the Central Region of RS state, Southern Brazil. Affected farms were visited for clinical examination, necropsy, sample collection and epidemiological investigation. The outbreaks were seasonal and occurred during the summer and fall. Of the 884 sheep in 17 small herds, 180 (20.4%) were affected. All ages of Texel and mixed breed sheep were affected. However, lambs (younger than one year) had higher morbidity than adult sheep. The most frequent clinical signs were anorexia, lethargy, loss of body condition, facial swelling mainly involving the lips, and greenish seromucous nasal discharge. Pulmonary edema, cardiac, skeletal muscle and esophageal striated muscle necrosis were the most prevalent findings. Erosive and ulcerative lesions in the upper gastrointestinal tract, and hemorrhage in the pulmonary artery also were common. The bluetongue virus (BTV) genome was detected by RT-PCR in blood, spleen, and lungs samples of 21 animals from 17 outbreaks. The virus involved in the outbreak 3 was isolated and shown to belong to serotype 17, for the first time reported in Brazil. Serology performed by agar gel immunodiffusion test (AGID) in 20 contact cattle showed seroconversion to BTV in 17 animals. In summary, our data support the BTV as the etiological agent of the outbreaks and indicate that the central region of RS is an area at risk for BT in sheep, a disease previously not recognized in the region.