Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in artisanal salted meat products sold in street markets of the Ilhéus-Itabuna microregion.

This study aimed to detect Toxoplasma gondii in artisanal salted meat products sold in street markets in the Ilhéus-Itabuna microregion and to assess the salt concentration used in their preparation and its influence on the parasite's viability. A total of 125 samples of various artisanal meat products sold in street markets located in the Ilhéus-Itabuna microregion were collected during 2021. Serological analysis using indirect hemagglutination (HAI) and molecular analysis (PCR) were performed on these samples to detect the presence of the parasite. Möhr's method was utilized to determine the sodium chloride concentration in the samples. Of all samples, 21 were subjected to a bioassay in albino mice to verify the viability of possible tissue cysts. Among the 125 meat products, 10 (8%) tested positive in the serological analysis including four cured pork sausages, five beef sun-dried meats, and one mixed fresh sausage (pork and chicken). None of 125 samples tested positive in the molecular analysis. On bioassay, all mice tested negative for the presence of the parasite. The NaCl concentration in the positive samples ranged from 2.9% to 8%. The results demonstrated that the salt concentration in the collected samples was sufficient to inactivate the parasite T. gondii.

Giardiasis in children and dogs, and the first report of assemblage E in dogs from northeastern Brazil.

Diagnosis is crucial for controlling giardiasis. We determined the prevalence and genetically characterize isolates of Giardia duodenalis of children and dogs from rural communities in northeastern Brazil. G. duodenalis cysts were concentrated by centrifugal flotation/sedimentation. Molecular characterization was carried out using the loci ssu-rRNA, bg, tpi, and gdh. By parasitological techniques, Giardia spp. infection was detected in 72/192 children (37.5%; 95% CI: 30.6%-44.7%) and 24/139 dogs (17.3%; 95% CI: 11.4%-24.6%). By molecular analysis, infection was detected in 60/141 children (42.5%; 95% CI: 34.3%-51.2%) and 26/92 dogs (28.3%; 95% CI: 19.4%-38.6%). The total prevalence of giardiasis was 54.9% in children (106/193; 95% CI: 47.1%-61.6%) and 32.9% in dogs (47/143; 95% CI: 25.2%-41.2%). Zoonotic assemblages A and B of G. duodenalis were detected in children, and assemblage E of G. duodenalis was detected in one child and two dogs. Parallel use of parasitological and molecular techniques proved to be a more effective strategy for detecting giardiasis in children and dogs from endemic areas.

Ex-vivo mucolytic and anti-inflammatory activity of BromAc in tracheal aspirates from COVID-19.

COVID-19 is a lethal disease caused by the pandemic SARS-CoV-2, which continues to be a public health threat. COVID-19 is principally a respiratory disease and is often associated with sputum retention and cytokine storm, for which there are limited therapeutic options. In this regard, we evaluated the use of BromAc®, a combination of Bromelain and Acetylcysteine (NAC). Both drugs present mucolytic effect and have been studied to treat COVID-19. Therefore, we sought to examine the mucolytic and anti-inflammatory effect of BromAc® in tracheal aspirate samples from critically ill COVID-19 patients requiring mechanical ventilation. METHOD: Tracheal aspirate samples from COVID-19 patients were collected following next of kin consent and mucolysis, rheometry and cytokine analysis using Luminex kit was performed. RESULTS: BromAc® displayed a robust mucolytic effect in a dose dependent manner on COVID-19 sputum ex vivo. BromAc® showed anti-inflammatory activity, reducing the action of cytokine storm, chemokines including MIP-1alpha, CXCL8, MIP-1b, MCP-1 and IP-10, and regulatory cytokines IL-5, IL-10, IL-13 IL-1Ra and total reduction for IL-9 compared to NAC alone and control. BromAc® acted on IL-6, demonstrating a reduction in G-CSF and VEGF-D at concentrations of 125 and 250 µg. CONCLUSION: These results indicate robust mucolytic and anti-inflammatory effect of BromAc® ex vivo in tracheal aspirates from critically ill COVID-19 patients, indicating its potential to be further assessed as pharmacological treatment for COVID-19.

Fast surveillance response reveals the introduction of a new yellow fever virus sub-lineage in 2021, in Minas Gerais, Brazil

BACKGROUND In Brazil, the yellow fever virus (YFV) is maintained in a sylvatic cycle involving wild mosquitoes and non-human primates (NHPs). The virus is endemic to the Amazon region; however, waves of epidemic expansion reaching other Brazilian states sporadically occur, eventually causing spillovers to humans. OBJECTIVES To report a surveillance effort that led to the first confirmation of YFV in NHPs in the state of Minas Gerais (MG), Southeast region, in 2021. METHODS A surveillance network was created, encompassing the technology of smartphone applications and coordinated actions of several research institutions and health services to monitor and investigate NHP epizootics. FINDINGS When alerts were spread through the network, samples from NHPs were collected and YFV infection confirmed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and genome sequencing at an interval of only 10 days. Near-complete genomes were generated using the Nanopore MinION sequencer. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that viral genomes were related to the South American genotype I, clustering with a genome detected in the Amazon region (state of Pará) in 2017, named YFVPA/MG sub-lineage. Fast YFV confirmation potentialised vaccination campaigns. MAIN CONCLUSIONS A new YFV introduction was detected in MG 6 years after the beginning of the major outbreak reported in the state (2015-2018). The YFV strain was not related to the sub-lineages previously reported in MG. No human cases have been reported, suggesting the importance of coordinated surveillance of NHPs using available technologies and supporting laboratories to ensure a quick response and implementation of contingency measures to avoid YFV spillover to humans.

Presence of atypical genotypes of Toxoplasma gondii isolated from cats in the state of Bahia, Northeast of Brazil.

In this study, 20 blood, heart, and brain samples were collected from euthanized cats at the Zoonosis Control Centers and Veterinary Clinics in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The sera were examined for anti-T. gondii antibodies using the indirect hemagglutination test. The brains and hearts of seven seropositive cats were ground, and peptide digestion was performed for bioassay in mice. Toxoplasma gondii was isolated in 5/7 (71.42%) of seropositive cats. In these isolates, the parasite was genotyped using the Polymerase chain reaction, associated with the DNA fragment polymorphism obtained by restriction enzyme PCR-RFLP technique with 11 markers (SAG1, 5'-SAG2, 3'-SAG2, alt. SAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, Apico, and CS3) and 15 microsatellite markers (TUB-2, W35, TgM-A, B18, B17, M33, IV.1, XI.1, M48, M102, N60, N82, AA, N61, N83). The analysis of the isolates by PCR-RFLP revealed five distinct genotypes. Three of these genotypes have never been reported before; one corresponded to the TgDgCo13 genotype, and one incomplete genotype. In genotyping analysis using microsatellite markers, it was observed that the isolates showed atypical alleles in the typing and fingerprint markers. This revealed five atypical genotypes. The typing marker B17 showed the highest degree of atypia. This study is the first to report the genotyping of T. gondii obtained from naturally infected cats in Bahia, Northeast Brazil. The genotypes found in this study were different from those found in other studies conducted in Bahia, which included different species of animals. None of the clonal lineages I, II, or III were found. This study demonstrates the diversity of T. gondii in the study region, with the presence of unusual genotypes, reaffirming the genetic variability of the parasite in Brazil.

First genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 recovered from an infected cat and its owner in Latin America.

An 11-year-old male mixed-breed cat, with exclusively indoor life, presented 3 cough episodes after the owners tested positive by RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2. The house is inhabited by 5 people (3 adults and 2 children), and 2 of the adults have shown mild symptoms associated with throat discomfort. The cat was vaccinated, had no history of any previous disease, and tested negative for feline coronavirus (FCoV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV). Rectal sample collected from the cat was positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR. Viral genome sequences recovered from human and cat samples showed an average 99.4% sequence identity. This is the first report of genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 recovered from a cat and its owner in Latin America.

Sarcocystis neurona, seroprevalence of antibodies in equines and research of oocystis in opossum in Ilhéus - Itabuna microregion, Bahia, Brazil / Sarcocystis neurona, seroprevalência de anticorpos em equinos e pesquisa de oocistos em gambás na microrregião de Ilhéus - Itabuna, Bahia, Brasil

Abstract The aims of this study were to determine the seroprevalence of Sarcocystis neurona antibodies in equines in the Ilhéus-Itabuna microregion (BA), and identify possible factors associated with infection. The presence of sporocysts/oocysts of Sarcocystis spp. was also verified in Didelphis spp. A total of 669 serum samples were collected from equines in 56 properties located in 12 municipalities in the region. Indirect fluorescent antibody test was performed with slides containing merozoites of the S. neurona, using a cut-off titer of 1:80. Occurrence of 7.92% of anti-S. neurona antibodies was observed in the sampled equines. The purposes trade and work were significantly associated with the presence of antibodies (p<0.05), and being used for the purpose of work (21.6%) was considered a risk factor, while being used for the purpose of trade (3.6%) was a protective factor. A total of 25 Didelphis spp. was captured for research on sporocysts/oocysts in stool samples and intestinal scrapings, being all negative. Didelphis spp. were all negative for the presence of Sarcocystis spp. and this circumstance does not change the fact that seroprevalence of S. neurona has been observed in horses raised in the southern Bahia.

Resumo O presente estudo foi realizado na microrregião de Ilhéus-Itabuna, Bahia. Os objetivos deste estudo foram determinar a soroprevalência de anticorpos contra Sarcocystis neurona em equinos da microrregião Ilhéus-Itabuna (BA) e identificar possíveis fatores associados à infecção. A presença de esporocistos/oocistos de Sarcocystis spp. também foi pesquisada em Didelphis spp. Foram coletadas 669 amostras de soro de equinos em 56 propriedades localizadas em 12 municípios da região. Foi utilizada a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI), utilizando-se lâminas confeccionadas com merozoítos de Sarcocystis neurona (cepa SN138) e ponto de corte na diluição de 1:80. A ocorrência de anticorpos anti- S. neurona, nos equinos amostrados, foi de 7,92%. As finalidades dos animais - comércio e trabalho - apresentaram-se significativas (p<0.05), sendo que a finalidade trabalho (21,6%) foi considerada fator de risco, enquanto a finalidade comércio (3,6%) foi considerada fator de proteção. Foram capturados 25 Didelphis spp., para pesquisa de esporocistos/oocistos em amostras de fezes e raspado de mucosa intestinal. Todos os Didelphis spp. foram negativos para a presença de Sarcocystis spp., mesmo assim essa circunstância não alterou o fato da ocorrência de S. neurona ter sido observada em cavalos criados na mesorregião do sul da Bahia.

Enteric parasitic infections in children and dogs in resource-poor communities in northeastern Brazil: Identifying priority prevention and control areas.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of the main enteric parasitic infections that affect children and dogs in the municipality of Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil; and to identify the geopolitical areas that should receive priority interventions to combat them. Between March and November 2016, fecal samples of 143 dogs and 193 children aged 1 month to 5 years were collected in 40 rural and semirural communities using a systematic sampling approach, stratified by district. Samples were collected by legal guardians of the children and / or dog owners. Eggs, larvae, cysts and oocysts of parasites were concentrated by centrifugal-flotation and centrifugal-sedimentation, and acid-resistant staining was used to visualize parasites. One hundred and thirty-two children (68.4%), 111 dogs (77.6%) and 199 (73.7%) dog fecal samples collected from streets were parasitized. Giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, amoeba infections and hookworm were the most frequent infections in all studied populations, in addition to trichuriasis in dogs and ascaridiasis in children. A predominance of Giardia and hookworms was observed in children and dogs, respectively. The coastal districts of Aritaguá, Olivença and the main district had a higher parasitic diversity and overlapping of important potential zoonotic infections. Age over one year (p<0.001), adjusted OR = 3.65; 95% CI = 1.86-7.16) and income below the minimum monthly salary (p = 0.02, adjusted OR = 2.78, 95% CI = 1.17-6.59) were the main factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections in children and dogs, respectively. The coastal districts of Aritaguá and Olivença and the main district should be prioritized through enteric disease control programs, and the factors associated with infections must be considered in the design of health interventions in these districts. The integration between affirmative income actions and investments to improve the health infrastructure of these communities may work more effectively than current preventive measures to combat enteric parasites.

Survey of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in wild mammals captured from Atlantic Forest fragments in Bahia, northeastern Brazil / Pesquisa de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em mamíferos silvestres em áreas de Mata Atlântica da Bahia, nordeste do Brasil

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate the frequency of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii present in wild mammals that were trap captured in forest fragments in the State of Bahia, northeastern Brazil. A total of 368 individuals (246 rodents, 104 marsupials and 18 bats) were captured using live catch traps. Serum samples were tested using the modified agglutination test, with a cut-off point at 1:25 dilution. The total occurrence of antibodies to T. gondii was 10.6% (39/368), being 16.3% (17/104) in marsupials, 8.5% (21/246) in rodents, and 5.5% (1/18) in bats. Antibody titers varied between 25 and 50 for rodents, between 25 and 400 for marsupials, and were 25 for bats. This is the first report on antibodies to T. gondii in certain rodent species (Thaptomys nigrita, Hylaeamys laticeps, and Cerradomys subflavus), marsupial species (Monodelphis americana, Gracilinanus microtarsus, Gracilinanus agilis and Marmosops incanus), and bats of the genus Rhynchonycteris. The presence of antibodies to T. gondii in wild mammals demonstrates the possibility of these animals as sentinels of toxoplasmosis, especially on regions under high anthropogenic effect.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar a frequência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii presentes em mamíferos selvagens, capturados em fragmentos florestais do Estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil. Um total de 368 indivíduos (246 roedores, 104 marsupiais e 18 morcegos) foram capturados, usando-se armadilhas de captura viva. Os soros foram testados pelo teste de aglutinação modificada, com ponto de corte na diluição de 1:25. A ocorrência total de anticorpos anti-T. gondii foi de 10,6% (39/368), sendo 16,3% (17/104) em marsupiais, 8,5% (21/246) em roedores e 5,5% (1/18) em morcegos. Os títulos variaram de 25 a 50 e 25 a 400, respectivamente, para roedores e marsupiais, e o título máximo em morcegos foi de 25. Este é o primeiro relato de anticorpos para T. gondii em algumas espécies de roedores (Thaptomys nigrita, Hylaeamys laticeps e Cerradomys subflavus), em marsupiais (Monodelphis americana, Gracilinanus microtarsus, Gracilinanus agilis e Marmosops incanus) e em quiróptero do gênero Rhynchonycteris. A presença de anticorpos anti-T. gondii em mamíferos selvagens demonstra a possibilidade desses animais como sentinelas da toxoplasmose, principalmente em regiões com alto efeito antropogênico.

Factors associated with the distribution of natural Toxoplasma gondii infection among equids in Northeastern Brazil / Fatores associados à distribuição da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em equídeos naturalmente infectados no Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and factors associated with Toxoplasma gondii in naturally infected equids in northeastern Brazil. Serum samples from 569 equids (528 horses, 8 mules and 33 donkeys) were subjected to the indirect fluorescent antibody test. Generalized linear models were used to evaluate associated factors. Among the 569 animals sampled, 118 (30.6%) living in rural areas and 14 (26.42%) in urban areas were seropositive (p>0.05). Seropositive animals were observed on 95% of the farms and in all the municipalities. Donkeys/mules as the host, presence of domestic cats and rats on the farm, ingestion of lagoon water and goat rearing remained in the final model as factors associated with infection. Preventive measures such as avoiding the presence of domestic cats close to rearing areas, pastures and sources of water for the animals should be adopted. The wide-ranging distribution of positive animals also indicated that infection in other domestic animals and in humans, through the contaminated environment, was possible. It should be highlighted that there was the possibility that donkeys and mules would continue to have detectable titers for longer, thus explaining the prevalence found. Further studies are needed to confirm this possibility.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a frequência e os fatores associados a Toxoplasma gondii em equídeos naturalmente infectados no Nordeste do Brasil. Amostras de soro de 569 equídeos (528 cavalos, 8 asnos e 33 muares) foram submetidas a reação de imunofluorescência indireta. Modelos lineares generalizados foram utilizados na avaliação dos fatores associados. Dos 569 animais amostrados, 118 (30,6%) soropositivos eram de área rural e 14 (26,42%) perteciam a áreas urbanas (p>0,05). Observaram-se animais soropositivos em 95% das fazendas e em todos os municípios. Asininos/muares como hospedeiro, presença de gatos domésticos e ratos na fazenda, ingestão de água de lagoa e criação de caprinos permaneceram no modelo final como fatores associados à infecção. Medidas de prevenção, como evitar a presença de gatos domésticos próximos aos locais de criação, de pastejo e fontes de água dos animais, devem ser adotadas. A ampla distribuição de animais positivos sinaliza a possibilidade de infecção também em outros animais domésticos, bem como em humanos pelo ambiente contaminado. Ressalta-se a possibilidade de que asininos e muares permaneçam com títulos detectáveis por mais tempo, justificando a prevalência encontrada, sendo necessários estudos para confirmar este possibilidade.

Eimeria spp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) of marsupials (Mammalia: Didelphimorphia) in southern Bahia, Brazil / Eimeria spp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) de marsupiais (Mammalia: Didelphimorphia) na região sul da Bahia, Brasil

Abstract The occurrence of Eimeria Schneider, 1875 in mammals of the order Didelphimorphia indicates the infection-predisposition of these animals, which in turn is mainly determined for their eating habits. The objective of this work was to evaluate the parasitism of Eimeria spp. in marsupials of the Atlantic Forest of the southern region of Bahia. Fecal samples were collected from marsupials captured in the regions of Ilhéus, Una, Belmonte and Mascote, with traps of the Sherman model (23 × 8 × 9 cm), Tomahawk (50 × 17 × 17 cm) and pitfall and analyzed by Sheather's modified centrifugal-flotation method. Oocysts were identified by microscopical evaluation of their morphology and morphometry. Didelphis aurita Wied-Neuwied, 1826, Gracilinanus agilis Burmeister, 1854, Monodelphis americana Müller, 1776, Marmosa demerarae O. Thomas, 1905 and Marmosa murina Linnaeus, 1758 were parasitized by Eimeria philanderi Lainson & Shaw, 1989 and Eimeria gambai Carini, 1938. Mixed parasitism for these two coccidia was observed in two of the 56 marsupials sampled. In conclusion, this work registers new hosts for E. philanderi and E. gambai, as well as the state of Bahia as a new distribution site for these coccidia.

Resumo A ocorrência de Eimeria Schneider, 1875 em mamíferos da ordem Didelphimorphia, indica a predisposição à infecção desses animais, que, por sua vez, é determinada principalmente por seus hábitos alimentares. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar o parasitismo por Eimeria spp. em marsupiais da Mata Atlântica da região Sul da Bahia. Amostras fecais foram coletadas de marsupiais capturados nas regiões de Ilhéus, Una, Belmonte e Mascote, com armadilhas do modelo de Sherman (23 × 8 × 9 cm), Tomahawk (50 × 17 × 17 cm) e queda e analisado pelo método de centrífugo flutuação modificado de Sheather. Os oocistos foram identificados pela avaliação microscópica de sua morfologia e morfometria. Didelphis aurita Wied-Neuwied, 1826, Gracilinanus agilis Burmeister, 1854, Monodelphis americana Müller, 1776, Marmosa demerarae O. Thomas, 1905 e Marmosa murina Linnaeus, 1758 foram parasitados por Eimeria philanderi Lainson & Shaw, 1989 e Eimeria gambai Carini, 1938. Parasitismo misto para esses dois coccidios foi observado em dois dos 56 marsupiais amostrados. Em conclusão, este trabalho registra novos hospedeiros para E. philanderi e E. gambai, bem como o estado da Bahia como um novo local de distribuição para esses coccidios.

Genetic variability of Leishmania infantum in naturally infected dogs in the state of Bahia, Brazil / Variabilidade genética de Leishmania infantum em cães naturalmente infectados no estado da Bahia, Brasil

Abstract In Brazil, Leishmania infantum mainly affects humans and dogs. The state of Bahia presents many dogs that are positive for this parasite. Despite the importance of epidemiology in this region, there are still very few studies that have assessed the genetic characteristics of L. infantum. The aim of this study is to investigate the genetic variability of L. infantum isolated identified in naturally infected dogs, in order to verify occurrence of subpopulation of this parasite in the different biomes existing in the state of Bahia. Thirty-two samples of L. infantum were analyzed, which were obtained isolated in dogs from the Mata Atlântica (rainforest), Caatinga (semi-arid scrub forest), and Cerrado (a vast tropical savannah eco-region) Bahia municipalities' biomes. All animals presented with clinical changes suggestive of Leishmania spp. and they exhibited positive reactions to serological tests. kDNA analysis with RFLP markers revealed the presence of genetic variability and gene flow in subpopulations of L. infantum; samples from the Mata Atlântica areas were genetically more similar to those from the areas of Caatinga and they were less likely to resemble those of the Cerrado. This data may be used to investigate the dissemination of parasite in the canine population of state of Bahia.

Resumo No Brasil a Leishmania infantum afeta principalmente o homem e os cães. O estado da Bahia apresenta elevado número de cães positivos por este parasito. Apesar da importância epidemiologia para a região, ainda há poucos estudos que avaliam as características genéticas de L. infantum. Objetivou-se com este estudo investigar a variabilidade genética de cepas de L. infantum identificadas em cães naturalmente infectados, a fim de verificar a ocorrência de sobpopulações do parasito nos diferentes biomas existentes no estado da Bahia. Foram analisadas 32 amostras de L. infantum isoladas em cães de municípios baianos distribuídos nos biomas Mata Atlântica, Caatinga e Cerrado. Todos os animais apresentavam alterações clínicas sugestivas de Leishmania spp. e reação positiva em exames sorológicos. A análise do kDNA com marcadores RFLP revelaram a presença de variabilidade genética e fluxo gênico nas subpopulações de L. infantum sendo que as amostras das áreas de Mata Atlântica foram geneticamente mais semelhantes as das áreas de Caatinga e foram mais distantes daquelas oriundas do Cerrado. Estas informações podem auxiliar em investigações de dispersão do parasito na população canino do Estado da Bahia.

Anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in beef cattle slaughtered in the metropolitan region of Belém, Brazilian Amazon / Anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em bovinos de corte abatidos na região metropolitana de Belém, Amazônia brasileira

Abstract The relevance of consuming raw or undercooked beef in the transmission of toxoplasmosis is unclear due to the high resistance of cattle to infection. However, this possibility needs to be considered in endemic areas, such as the Amazon, where the consumption of beef is frequent. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG antibodies in beef cattle slaughtered in the metropolitan region of Belem, Pará state, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 500 animals of both genders in a licensed slaughterhouse in Belém. Anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies were detected by an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) with a cut-off titer of 1:64. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were found in 203 animals (40.6%), with a titer of 64 in 112 animals (55.2%), 128 in 68 animals (33.5%), 256 in 15 animals (7.4%), 512 in 5 animals (2.5%), and 1,024 in 3 animals (1.4%). No significant difference was observed between males and females (p > 0.05). The high frequency of anti-T. gondii antibodies observed in beef cattle slaughtered in Belém indicates that the meat of these animals may be an important source of infection for humans and carnivorous domestic animals when inadequately cooked beef is consumed.

Resumo A importância do consumo de carne bovina crua ou mal passada na transmissão da toxoplasmose ainda é pouco definida, devido à alta resistência desses animais à infecção. Contudo, em áreas endêmicas, como da Amazônia, onde o consumo de carne bovina é frequente, essa possibilidade precisa ser considerada. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a frequência de anticorpos IgG anti-T. gondii em bovinos de corte abatidos na região metropolitana de Belém, Estado do Pará. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 500 animais, de ambos os sexos, em um abatedouro oficial do município de Belém. A detecção de anticorpos IgG anti-T. gondii foi realizada pela reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI), com ponto de corte de 1:64. Anticorpos anti-T. gondii foram encontrados em 203 animais (40,6%), com títulos de 64 em 112 animais (55,2%); 128 em 68 (33,5%); 256 em 15 (7,4%); 512 em 05 (2,5%); e 1.024 em 03 (1.4%). Não foi observada diferença estatisticamente significativa entre machos e fêmeas (p > 0,05). A alta frequência de anticorpos anti-T. gondii, observada nos bovinos de corte abatidos em Belém, indica que a carne desses animais pode ser importante fonte de infecção para humanos e animais domésticos carnívoros, caso venha a ser consumida de forma inadequada.

Toxoplasmosis in cats in northeastern Brazil: Frequency, associated factors and coinfection with Neospora caninum, feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus.

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and the factors associated with infection by Toxoplasma gondii and demonstrate occurrences of coinfection with Neospora caninum, the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) in cats in the state of Bahia, Brazil. A total of 231 blood samples were collected from 201 owned cats and 30 stray cats. Serological investigations on T. gondii and N. caninum were performed using the indirect fluorescent antibody test with cutoff points of 1:64 and 1:50, respectively. To diagnose FIV and FeLV, a commercial immunochromatographic kit and a nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used. Unconditional logistic regression was performed to assess the factors associated with infection by T. gondii among owned cats. The seropositivity for T. gondii among the owned cats and stray cats was 44.3% (89/201) and 53.3% (16/30), respectively. For N. caninum, the seropositivity among owned cats was 21.4% (43/201) and among stray cats, 23.3% (7/30). The copositivity between the two coccidia were 23.6% (21/201) and 37.5% (6/30), among owned and stray cats respectively. The periurban environment was a risk factor for infection by T. gondii, while infection by FIV was associated with infection by T. gondii (p<0.05) among owned cats. No association was found between T. gondii and FeLV, or between N. caninum and the retroviruses. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the cats of the present study were exposed to the agents T. gondii and N. caninum, which suggests that significant infection of intermediate hosts and or environmental contamination with oocysts was present, and that the cats coinfected with T. gondii and the retroviruses did not present any serological signs of reactivation of infection.

Epidemiology of Eimeria infections in sheep raised extensively in a semiarid region of Brazil / Epidemiologia da infecção por Eimeria em ovinos criados extensivamente em região semiárida no Brasil

Abstract The aim of this study was to identify and determine the prevalence of Eimeria species affecting sheep raised extensively in a semiarid region of Brazil. Fecal samples of native sheep were collected during the rainy and dry seasons. The degree of infection was determined by counting oocysts per gram (OPG) of feces, and the morphometric method was used for species identification. Oocysts were found in all the properties assessed, in which 68.3% of the animals were infected. The prevalence of oocysts was influenced by the season and animal category (P<0.05). It was higher during the rainy season than the dry season (80.2% vs. 55.8%) and highest in young animals than the adults animals (68.2% vs. 39.6%). The OPG was lower during the dry season (1,269 ± 312 vs. 4,400 ± 1,122). Ten species were found; of these, E. ovinoidalis, E. granulosa, E. faurei, and E. crandallis were the most frequent. E. ovinoidalis and E. crandallis were found in all properties, with their prevalences being 19.4% and 13.6% respectively. The high prevalence of pathogenic species shows that eimeriosis is a risk for animals raised extensively in the semiarid region.

Resumo Objetivou-se neste estudo identificar e determinar a prevalência de espécies de Eimeria que parasitam ovinos criados extensivamente em região semi-árida. Amostras de fezes de ovinos nativos foram coletados durante as estações chuvosa e seca. O grau de infecção foi determinado pela contagem de oocistos por grama de fezes (OoPG)e o método morfométrico foi utilizado para a identificação das espécies. Foram encontrados oocistos em todas os rebanhos avaliados e observou-se que 68,3% dos animais estavam infectados. A prevalência de oocistos foi influenciada pela estação climática e pela categoria dos animais (P<0,05), sendo mais alta durante a estação chuvosa em relação a estação seca (80,2% vs. 55,8%) e em animais jovens em relação aos animais adultos (68,2% vs. 39,6%). O OoPG foi menor durante a estação seca (1.269 ± 312 vs. 4.400 ± 1.122). Dez espécies foram encontradas sendo a E. ovinoidalis, E. granulosa, E. faurei, e E. crandallis as mais frequentes. E. ovinoidalis e E. crandallis foram encontrados em todas as propriedades, com prevalências de 19,4% e 13,6%, respectivamente. A alta prevalência de espécies patogênicas mostra que eimeriose é um risco para os animais criados extensivamente na região semiárida.

Detection of Rickettsia bellii and Rickettsia amblyommii in Amblyomma longirostre (Acari: Ixodidae) from Bahia state, Northeast Brazil

Studies investigating rickettsial infections in ticks parasitizing wild animals in the Northeast region of Brazil have been confined to the detection of Rickettsia amblyommii in immature stages of Amblyomma longirostre collected from birds in the state of Bahia, and in immatures and females of Amblyomma auriculariumcollected from the striped hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus semistriatus) and armadillos (Euphractus sexcinctus) in the state of Pernambuco. The current study extends the distribution of R. amblyommii (strain Aranha), which was detected in A. longirostre collected from the thin-spined porcupine Chaetomys subspinosus and the hairy dwarf porcupine Coendou insidiosus. In addition, we report the first detection of Rickettsia bellii in adults of A. longirostre collected from C. insidiosus in the state of Bahia.

Coccidia of gallinaceous meat birds in Brazil / Coccídios de galináceos de corte no Brasil

Coccidiosis is a disease that limits the production and marketing of gallinaceous birds in North America, especially quails, pheasants and chukar partridges. Virtually no research has been conducted in South America on the causative agents of diseases among these birds, including coccidia. The aim of this work was to make first observations on Eimeria spp. in the chukar partridge Alectoris chukar and the grey quail Coturnix coturnix, which are reared for meat in Brazil. Fecal and tissue samples were collected from commercial farms and were examined for oocysts, gross and microscopic lesions or endogenous stages. From this examination, it was found that partridges raised in Brazil did not have any visible infection. However, grey quails presented mild infection and two Eimeria species that had previously been described in other birds were identified.

A coccidiose é uma enfermidade limitante para a produção e comercialização de aves de corte na América do Norte, principalmente codornas, faisões e a perdiz de chukar. Praticamente nenhuma pesquisa foi realizada na América do Sul sobre os agentes causadores de doenças nessas aves, incluindo coccídios. O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar as primeiras observações sobre Eimeria spp. em perdiz de chukar Alectoris chukar e codornas cinzentas Coturnix coturnix criadas para abate no Brasil. Amostras de fezes e de tecidos foram coletadas em granjas comerciais e examinadas para oocistos, lesões macroscópicas e microscópicas ou estágios endógenos. Após o exame, verificou-se que a criação de perdizes, no Brasil, não tinha infecção visível. No entanto, as codornas cinzentas apresentaram uma infecção leve e foram identificadas duas espécies de Eimeria descritas anteriormente em outras aves.

Canine ehrlichiosis: prevalence and epidemiology in northeast Brazil / Erliquiose canina: prevalência e epidemiologia no nordeste do Brasil

Ehrlichiosis is a zoonotic disease that is caused by bacteria of the genus Ehrlichia. The aims of this study were to detect the presence of Ehrlichia spp. in the blood of dogs in Ituberá, Bahia, and to compare the sensitivities and specificities of blood smear, serological, and molecular examinations. Furthermore, this study identified factors associated with exposure to the agent in dogs in this locality. Blood samples were collected from 379 dogs and submitted for indirect immunofluorescent assay and polymerase chain reaction testing for the detection of Ehrlichia spp. antibodies and DNA, respectively. Additionally, a peripheral blood smear was obtained from the ear tip for parasite identification. Of the 379 animals, 12.4%, 32.7%, and 25.6% were identified as positive on the blood smear, serological, and molecular tests, respectively. The dogs positive in one of the three techniques were considered exposed (46.9%). Younger dogs and rural habitat were protective factors and presence of ticks and contact with other dogs were the risk factors associated with exposure to the agent. It was concluded that dogs of Ituberá have high positivity for Ehrlichia spp. and that the diagnostic methods used for detection are complementary.

Erliquiose é uma doença zoonótica causada por bactérias do gênero Ehrlichia. O objetivo desse estudo foi detectar a presença de Ehrlichia spp. no sangue de cães em Ituberá-BA, e comparar as sensibilidades e especificidades do esfregaço sanguíneo, e testes sorológico e molecular. Além disso, esse estudo identificou fatores associados com a exposição ao agente em cães desta localidade. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas de 379 cães e submetidas à Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta e Reação em Cadeia de Polimerase para detecção de anticorpos e DNA de Ehrlichia spp., respectivamente. Adicionalmente, sangue periférico de ponta de orelha foi coletado para identificação do parasita. Dos 379 animais, 12,4%, 32,7% e 25,6% foram identificados como positivos no esfregaço sanguíneo, teste sorológico e molecular, respectivamente. Cães positivos em uma das três técnicas foram considerados expostos (46,9%). Cães mais novos e hábitat rural foram fatores de proteção e presença de carrapatos e contato com outros cães foram os fatores de risco associados à exposição ao agente. Foi concluído que, os cães do município de Ituberá têm alta positividade para Ehrlichia spp. e que os diferentes métodos diagnósticos utilizados para sua detecção são complementares.

Bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis complex: diagnosis and evaluation of the risk factors from Bahia, Brazil / Complexo tristeza parasitária bovina: diagnóstico e avaliação dos fatores de risco na Bahia, Brasil

Direct diagnoses were made by using - blood smears and nested PCR (nPCR) tests on 309 blood samples from crossbred dairy cattle in the municipality of Ibicaraí, Bahia. From diagnostic blood smear slides, the observed parasitic frequencies were 31.1% for Anaplasma marginale and 20.4% for Babesia sp. From nPCR diagnoses, they were 63% for A. marginale, 34% for Babesia bigemina and 20.4% for Babesia bovis. There were significant differences (P <0.01) between the two diagnostic methods (nPCR and blood smear slides). The compliance obtained from the kappa test was 0.41 and 0.48 for A. marginale and Babesia sp., respectively. The tick samples from the six farms analyzed using nPCR were only positive for A. marginale. Evaluation of the risk factors relating to the presence of ticks and the age of the animals showed that there was a significant association (P <0.01) with the frequency of animals infected with both pathogens. Therefore, under the conditions studied, nPCR proved to be a good tool for diagnosing the agents of the bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis complex because of its sensitivity and specificity in comparison with blood smears. The municipality of Ibicaraí is an area with endemic prevalence of bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis confirmed by nPCR and A. marginale is the main agent of the disease.

Realizou-se o diagnóstico direto por esfregaço sanguíneo e nested PCR (nPCR) em 309 amostras de sangue de bovinos mestiços leiteiros provenientes do município de Ibicaraí, Bahia. A frequência observada no diagnóstico por lâminas de esfregaço sanguíneo foi 31,1% para Anaplasma marginale e 20,4% para Babesia sp. Enquanto que no diagnóstico por nPCR foi 63% para A. marginale, 34% para Babesia bigemina e 20,4% Babesia bovis. Verificaram-se diferenças significativas (P<0,01) na comparação entre os dois métodos de diagnósticos (nPCR e esfregaço sanguíneo). A concordância ao teste KAPPA obtida foi de 0,41 e 0,48 para A. marginale e Babesia sp., respectivamente. As amostras de carrapatos das seis propriedades analisadas por nPCR foram positivas apenas para A. marginale. Na avaliação dos fatores de risco verificou-se que a presença de carrapato e idade dos animais apresentaram associação significativa (P<0,01) com a frequência de animais infectados por ambos os patógenos analisados por nPCR. Portanto, nas condições estudadas, a nPCR revelou-se uma boa ferramenta para diagnóstico dos agentes do complexo tristeza parasitária bovina (TPB) devido a sensibilidade e especificidade, quando comparado ao esfregaço sanguíneo. O município de Ibicaraí apresenta-se como uma área endêmica para TPB com prevalência comprovada através de nPCR e, A. marginale o principal agente encontrado.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in sheep from Bahia state, Brazil / Prevalência e fatores de risco associados a anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em ovinos da Bahia, Brasil

In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies and identify risk factors associated with this infection in sheep from the southern region of Bahia state. Between February and December 2010, 795 sheep from 31 farms located in nine municipalities were tested. We found seroprevalence of 30.2% (240/795), with titers of 64 (38.3%), 256 (34.2%), 1,024 (18.3%), and 4,096 (9.2%) by Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Test (IFAT). Seropositive sheep were detected in all farms sampled. Univariate statistical analysis detected association between T. gondii seropositivity and the variables age, use of fresh food mainly, water source, stocking rate, production system, presence and number of cats on the farm, and transit of cats (p < 0.05). In the logistic regression model, transit of cats (p = 0.001), production system (p = 0.007), and age (p = 0.027) were identified as risk factors associated with T. gondii infection.

Objetivou-se com este estudo determinar a prevalência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii e identificar os fatores de risco associados á infecção em ovinos no sudeste do Estado da Bahia. De fevereiro a dezembro de 2010, 795 ovinos de 31 propriedades localizadas em nove municípios foram analisados. A soroprevalência foi de 30,2% (240/795), com títulos de 64 (38,3%), 256 (34,2%), 1.024 (18,3%) e 4.096 (9,2%) pela Reação de Imunoflorescência Indireta (RIFI). Ovinos positivos foram detectados em todas as fazendas estudadas. Na análise estatística univariada detectou-se associação entre a soropositividade e idade, uso de alimentação fresca, fonte de água, sistema de produção, presença e número de gatos na fazenda e o transito de gatos (p < 0,05). No modelo de regressão logística, transito de gatos (p = 0,001), sistema de produção (p = 0,007) e idade (p = 0,027) foram identificados como fatores de risco associados á infecção por T. gondii.