One Health Index applied to countries in South America.

Introduction: The One Health concept has proposed an integrated and unified approach aiming for health balance and enhancement by recognizing the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health. The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed global One Health initiatives and policy improvement toward preventive measures for future pandemics, particularly of zoonotic origin. Such a scenario may be particularly relevant for South America, which is considered highly vulnerable due to its natural biodiversity superposed to socioeconomic and environmental issues, demanding effective methods and indicators for proper One Health strategies and goals that are aligned with macroregional contexts. Methods: Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess the One Health Index (OHI) in South American countries, along with potential interactions with socioeconomic indicators. The results obtained using clustering analysis and permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) have revealed a positive association between the OHI and the Human Development Index (HDI) but not with gross domestic product (GDP). Results: Although South American countries with political stability, robust investment in health, and progressive policies have shown a higher OHI, better environmental health is not associated with better human and animal health. In addition, although the Amazon biome- spanning 9 of the 12 South American countries-has positively impacted environmental health, this benefit contrasts with the rudimentary local human health systems, highlighting the complexity of One Health within the South American context. The lack of stronger indicators for animal health was also considered an important weak point for a true OHI assessment. Nonetheless, countries with more developed livestock have presented better animal health, which may not reflect an overall animal health indicator, as companion and wildlife animal health indicators were not available. Discussion: Although lower (within-country) scale analysis such as states and metropolitan areas may better shape internal differences, the study herein has clearly shown One Health inequalities and challenges among South American countries. Equally important, forests and other natural areas in developing countries, particularly the Amazon, should receive incentives to promote sustainable economic growth. This approach would help prevent sacrificing environmental health for the benefit of human and livestock animal health.

Mapping vulnerability for increased COVID-19 susceptibility and worse outcomes: a scoping review.

Introduction: Infectious diseases can spread rapidly in the globalized world, and the complex intersection of individual, social, economic, and cultural factors make it difficult to identify vulnerabilities in the face of pandemics. Methods: Therefore, this study aimed to identify vulnerability factors to infection and worse outcomes associated with COVID-19. This is a scoping review study of six databases that selected publications between 2019 and 2023, focusing on individual, social, and programmatic dimensions of vulnerability. The results were recorded in a spreadsheet and analyzed, considering the interrelationships among these dimensions. Results: A total of 45 articles were included in the review. Content analysis was conducted using the theoretical framework of health vulnerability, which divides vulnerability into individual, social, and programmatic dimensions. Race/ethnicity, homelessness, incarceration, socioeconomic level, food insecurity, and remote areas were classified as social dimensions. On the other hand, cancer, cardiovascular disease, HIV/AIDS, alcoholism, advanced age, obesity, mental disorders, diabetes, kidney disease, and pregnancy were classified as individual dimensions. None of the publications found explicitly mentioned programmatic vulnerabilities. Discussion: The research found that social vulnerabilities reinforce individual vulnerabilities, creating a vicious cycle. In addition, programmatic vulnerabilities reinforce this relationship. This study emphasizes that public policies should address these different dimensions of vulnerability. It suggests that this information should be incorporated into health surveillance and future decision-making to face new pandemics. Systematic review registration: https://archive.org/details/osf-registrations-wgfmj-v1.

Ultrafast and high-throughput immunoassay assay to detect anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies in dogs and cats.

The fact that SARS-CoV-2 has reportedly infected companion, livestock and wildlife animals may constitute a significant risk for virus reservoirs, ground for emerging variants and potential for novel reverse zoonosis. Hence, SARS-CoV-2 surveillance in animal species is crucial to prevent emerging variants which may spread to humans. The present study aimed to develop a simple, high-throughput and ultrafast magnetic bead immunoassay to detect anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid and spike reactive IgG antibodies in dog and cat serum samples. The assays were validated using serum from eleven dogs and cats which had SARS-CoV-2 infections confirmed by real-time RT-PCR. The negative cohort consisted of pre-pandemic dog and cat samples. The assays performed at 73-82% sensitivity and 97.5-98% specificity for dogs and 71% sensitivity and 92-94% specificity for cats. The lower assay specificity for cats is explained by the fact that cat pre-pandemic sera showed high levels of cross-reactive with SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid and Spike, supporting that these animals have been exposed to other coronavirus sharing structural similarities with SARS-CoV-2. These assays described in this work are now being used for SARS-CoV-2 surveillance and research purposes.

Serological and Molecular Survey of Rickettsial Agents in Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) from Midwestern Brazil.

Wild boars (Sus scrofa L.) are considered among the most harmful invasive species worldwide, causing irreversible ecosystem damage, acting as zoonotic spreaders and reservoirs, threatening human and animal health, and having an important economic impact. Accordingly, the present study has assessed the rickettsial exposure, tick infestation of wild boars, and rickettsial DNA presence in ticks from infested animals from the Cerrado biome in midwestern Brazil. Anti-Rickettsia spp. antibodies were detected in serum samples of wild boars by immunofluorescence assay. Overall, 106/285 (37.2%) wild boar serum samples from 13 to 18 (72.2%) municipalities showed seroreactivity to at least one of the four Rickettsia spp. antigens tested, the largest number of wild boars serologically tested to Rickettsia spp. in this type of study. Among the 106 seroreactive animals, 34 showed possible homologous reactions between R. parkeri, R. amblyommatis, and R. bellii, with endpoint titers between 128 and 512. A sample of 45 ticks collected from four culled wild boars was identified as Amblyomma sculptum, and all tested negative for rickettsial DNA presence. In conclusion, this study has provided a reliable sampling seroprevalence and indicated high exposure of wild boars to rickettsial agents, with a potential interaction with Rickettsia spp. from the spotted fever group within the Cerrado biome from midwestern Brazil.

Spatial distribution and population dynamics of free-roaming (stray and semi-domiciled) dogs in a major Brazilian city.

Introduction: Although estimate models have been proposed to determine free-roaming (both stray and semi-domiciled) dog populations, to date, no study has focused on the three major border areas of Brazil. Therefore, the present study assessed the free-roaming dog population of Foz do Iguaçu, a major far-west Brazilian city located in a three-border area (Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay), which is considered among the top five Brazilian tourist destinations. Methods: Capture-release sampling was performed in three phases with a 6-month interval and 10-day duration of each phase, totaling 18 months, between 2018 and 2019. Results: A total of 1,273 dogs were estimated in the first [95% confidence interval (CI), 468-2,078 dogs], 904 in the second (95%CI, 452-1,355 dogs), and 1,564 in the third (95%CI, 521-2,607 dogs) capture phases in this area, suggesting a population density of 18.4 dogs/km2 (6.1-30.6 dogs/km2, 95% CI). Of all free-roaming dogs, 452/1,125 (40.2%) were stray with no confirmed ownership or household, whereas 672/1,125 (59.8%) had a known origin, among which 625/1,125 (55.6%) were semi-domiciled with ownership or a household, 36/1,125 (3.2%) were neighborhood dogs with maintainers, and 11/1,125 (1.0%) were owned by recycling material collectors and homeless individuals. The majority of the 1,125 dogs (862/1,125; 76.6%) had an ideal body condition score. The high outdoor access of owned dogs is likely caused by cultural behavior. However, because 533/1,125 (47.4%) of the free-roaming dogs presented with clinical abnormalities, irresponsible ownership may have negatively impacted dog health and welfare. Discussion: This study was the first to establish the density of free-roaming dogs, the ratio of stray and semi-domiciled dogs, and their dynamics over time in Foz do Iguaçu. The findings may serve as a warning for the high level of dog outdoor access and irresponsible guardianship, which may negatively affect animal health and welfare, leading to diseases, accidents, trauma, and animal cruelty.

One Health Priorities: Advancing Veterinary Public Health in Latin America and the Caribbean.

One Health (OH) is an integrative approach to human, animal, and environmental health and can be used as a comprehensive indicator for comparative purposes. Although an OH index has been proposed for comparing cities, states, and countries, to date, no practical study has compared countries using this approach. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess OH initiatives using a survey with a veterinary public health focus. The questionnaire contained 104 quantitative questions and was sent to representatives of governmental institutions of 32 countries in the Americas. After exclusion criteria were considered, a total of 35 questionnaires from 17 countries were analyzed, with country names remaining undisclosed during the statistical analyses to protect potentially sensitive information. Principal component analysis (PCA) of health parameters in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) as a function of country perception (self-vector) showed that food safety was ranked higher than public policies (p = 0.009), and that both (p = 0.003) were ranked higher than institutional routines related to zoonosis programs. National policies in accordance with international standards, regulations, recommendations, and guidelines was considered the standout topic for public policy, with higher-ranking topics including standard. Meanwhile, challenging topics included tools, preparedness, governance, and research. Food safety showed both strengths and challenges in the coordination of its activities with other sectors. Food safety communication was scored as a strength, while foodborne diseases prevention was ranked as a challenge. Institutional routines for zoonosis maintained both strong and challenging topics in the execution and implementation of attributions and daily routine. Thus, the survey showed that topics such as access to and compliance with international guidelines and intercountry integration were ranked higher than in-country articulation, particularly among food safety, zoonoses, and environmental institutions.

Household Location (Urban, Peri-Urban and Rural Settlements) as an Associated Risk Factor for Toxoplasmosis during Pregnancy in Southeastern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Brazil has a high prevalence of toxoplasmosis. However, there is a gap in comparing seroprevalence for Toxoplasma gondii across different environments, particularly among pregnant residents of rural and urban areas. METHODS: The prevalence of IgG and IgM for T. gondii was compared among pregnant residents of the urban, peri-urban, and rural settlement areas in a municipality in southeastern Brazil. Information regarding age and area of residence was compiled from January 2015 to December 2022. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the age and area of residence as risk factors. RESULTS: A total of 1614 examinations were recorded, revealing 54.0% seropositivity, which was highest in the rural settlement (61.1%), followed by the peri-urban area (55.9%), and lowest in the urban area (49.2%). CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of IgG and presence of IgM in pregnant residents of rural, peri-urban, and urban areas highlights the significance of the results obtained for strengthening maternal health programs aimed at preventing toxoplasmosis, regardless of their residence.

One Health Approach to Toxoplasmosis: Owner and Dog Seropositivity as Spatial Indicators of Risk Areas for Acquired, Gestational and Congenital Transmission.

BACKGROUND: Toxoplasmosis has been of public health concern due to direct associations with socioeconomic vulnerability and inadequate living conditions. METHODS: Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess antibodies against T. gondii, historical reported toxoplasmosis cases and associated socio-environmental risk factors in Pinhais, a full urban area of Curitiba, currently the eighth biggest metropolitan area of Brazil. Anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies were assessed by an indirect immunofluorescence reaction (RIFI). Owner and dog samples were also tested by IFAT to anti-Leishmania spp. and anti-Trypanosoma cruzi antibodies. RESULTS: Overall, 20/135 (14.8%) persons and 13/133 (9.8%) dogs from 25 different households were considered seropositive to T. gondii. All samples were seronegative to Leishmania spp. and Trypanosoma cruzi. CONCLUSIONS: Although no significant covariates were found in the regression model, statistically associated risk factors in the bivariate analysis included no public water use (p = 0.016) and drinking raw milk (p = 0.041) for owners, and obesity (p = 0.028) and tick infestation (p = 0.03) for dogs. In addition, a spatial cluster of T. gondii seropositivity for both owners and their dogs overlapped the location of historic reported cases of human acquired, gestational and congenital toxoplasmosis. Finally, the results herein showed tick infestation as an indicator of socio-environmental risk for T. gondii exposure in the household environment, and dogs may be used as sentinels for human toxoplasmosis cases.

A silent threat behind bars: Serosurvey and associated risk factors for strongyloidiasis in female inmates and correctional officers.

Strongyloidiasis has been a neglected parasitic infection caused by Strongyloides genus parasites. Despite assessment of S. stercoralis exposure in different vulnerable populations, seroprevalence in inmates worldwide remains to be fully established. Due to poor sanitation and lack of personal hygienic practices, incarcerated individuals have been considered prone to spread infectious illnesses. Accordingly, the present study has assessed exposure and associated risk factors for strongyloidiasis in women inmates and correctional officers at the Women's State Penitentiary of Parana, part of the third largest incarceration complex in Brazil at the time. Blood samplings were performed in 2020 and 2021from a total of 503 women inmates and 92 correctional officers. Participants voluntarily responded to an epidemiological questionnaire to assess associated risk factors to strongyloidiasis. Serological analysis was performed by ELISA for anti-S. stercoralis IgG detection. Statistical analysis was performed using R software, adopting a 5% level of significance. The data were submitted to univariate analysis by chi-square or Fisher´s Exact test for assessing the association among seropositivity and the variables. The variables with p-value < 0.2 in the univariate analysis were considered fit to be included in the logistic regression. In overall, 356/503 (70.8%; 95% CI: 66.7-74.6) inmates were seropositive for anti-S. stercoralis antibodies, with no statistically associated risk factor to seropositivity. A total of 57/92 (62.0%; 95% CI: 51.8-71.2) correctional officers were seropositive, and logistic regression revealed that individuals older than 50 years were more likely seropositive. In conclusion, the high endemicity observed herein has indicated a history of previous exposure to S. stercoralis and warned for a systematic strongyloidiasis screening for inmates, to prevent long term morbidity and disseminated infection during incarceration.

Brazil's landmark change on One Health, animal rights and protection.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) launched by the United Nations in 2015 were a global challenge calling for ending poverty, protecting the environment, and guaranteeing peace and prosperity to world citizens by 2030. Brazil has changed gears, accepted the SDG challenge and moved one step forward. On the dawn of January 1st, 2023, the very first day of President Lula's office, Brazil issued the Decree no. 11,349/2023 and created an additional SDG itself on animal health by establishing the Department of Animal Protection and Rights (DAPR). The DAPR primarily aims to establish a Federal Animal Code and other nationwide standard procedures for pet population management and mass neutering/spaying programs, services against animal cruelty, welfare meat production, meat substitutes, and enforcement of native fauna protection. Meanwhile, Brazil's new government has reduced in 48% the Amazon deforestation and mining, enforced the inspections on national parks and preserved areas, limited wild boar hunting. On top of it, Lula's G20 Bloc presidency starting this coming December has shown the Brazil commitment to reestablish its historical prominence on international conversation and diplomacy. Finally, recognition of a clear and unquestionable nexus among animal welfare, environment, and sustainability, beyond the United Nations original proposition, in a country level, particularly with still-preserved nature areas, should be understood and invested as humanity heritage.

Subclinical Ovine Gammaherpesvirus 2-Related Infections in Free-Ranging Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) from Southern Brazil.

Ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 (OvGHV2), is a Macavirus and the cause of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever (SA-MCF), in which sheep are the asymptomatic reservoir hosts. Susceptible mammalian populations infected by OvGHV2 may develop clinical SA-MCF or subclinical infections. All members of the Macavirus genus known to be associated with MCF are collectively referred to as the MCF virus (MCFV) complex. This report describes the occurrence of subclinical OvGHV2-related infections in free-ranging wild boars (Sus scrofa) from southern Brazil. Specific body organs (n = 14) and biological samples (nasal and oral swabs; n = 17) were collected from 24 asymptomatic wild boars from a conservation unit located within the Central-eastern mesoregion of Paraná State. Organs were processed to observe histopathological patterns suggestive of diseases of domestic animals; only pulmonary samples were used in an immunohistochemical assay designed to detect MCFV tissue antigens. Furthermore, all samples were submitted to molecular assays designed to detect the OvGHV2 tegument protein gene. Viral-induced pneumonia was diagnosed in two wild boars; one of these contained OvGHV2 DNA, with MCFV antigens identified in the other. Additionally, MCFV tissue antigens were detected within pulmonary epithelial cells of the lungs with and without pulmonary disease. Collectively, OvGHV2 was detected in 37.5% (9/24) of all wild boars, with detection occurring in the organs of 57.1% (8/14) wild boars and the oral cavity of one animal. These results demonstrated that these wild boars were subclinically infected by OvGHV2, and that infection produced typical pulmonary alterations. In addition, the detection of OvGHV2 within the oral cavity of one wild boar may suggest that this animal may be a potential disseminator of this pathogen to susceptible animal populations, including livestock and wildlife, acting as a possible bridge host for OvGHV2. Furthermore, infection by OvGHV2 probably occurred due to incidental contact with asymptomatic sheep maintained within the surrounding rural areas and not within the conservation units.

One Health approach to Coxiella burnetii in Brazilian indigenous communities.

Indigenous health has posted complex challenges worldwide, particularly due to historical economic, territorial, social and environmental processes, which may lead to emergence and reemergence of pathogens. In addition to few Coxiella burnetii serosurveys in vulnerable populations, especially in developing tropical countries, no comprehensive One Health approach has focused on human-animal infection along with potential environmental determinants. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of anti-C. burnetii antibodies in indigenous populations and their dogs from 10 indigenous communities distributed in southern and southeastern Brazil, along with the correspondent healthcare professionals. In overall, 8/893 (0.90%; 95% CI 0.45-1.76) indigenous and 1/406 (0.25%) dog samples were seropositive, with 7/343 (2.04%) individuals the 1/144 (0.69%) dog from the Ocoy community, located in the city of São Miguel do Iguaçu, bordering Argentina at south, and far 10 km at west from Paraguay. All 84 healthcare professionals tested seronegative.

Serosurvey of Coxiella burnetii in Police Officers and Working Dogs in Brazil: Case Report and One Health Implications.

BACKGROUND: Although the Coxiella burnetii infection has been investigated in dogs, its role in human transmission remains to be fully established, particularly in close and daily human-dog contact settings, such as in Police K-9 Units. METHODS: Accordingly, this study aimed to assess anti-C. burnetii antibodies in clinically healthy police officers by an in-house indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), and working dogs by a commercial IFA Kit, from the State Special Operations Battalion, Paraná, Southern Brazil. RESULTS: Overall, 1/18 (5.5%) police officers and 9/30 (30.0%; CI 95% 16.66-47.88) dogs tested seropositive to anti-C. burnetii IgG antibodies. CONCLUSIONS: To date, this is the highest prevalence of Q fever seropositivity among military dogs worldwide. Despite the low sampling rate, a statistically significant association was found between seropositivity and female dogs (p = 0.0492). Further studies with larger sample sizes should be conducted to establish the prevalence of Q Fever in other Brazilian K-9 Units. In summary, this study is the first to conduct a concomitant serosurvey of police officers and working dogs, and its findings should be considered a warning for cross-exposure and transmission of Coxiella burnetii among Police K-9 Units in Brazil and worldwide.

Seropositivity for Toxocara spp. in Individuals with Animal Hoarding Disorder in Southern Brazil: An Alarm for Public Health.

PURPOSE: Animal hoarding has been associated with unhealthy human, animal and environmental conditions that predispose such individuals to serious life-threatening risks such as arson, malnutrition, cruelty and zoonosis. The study aimed to evaluate the presence of anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies among individuals with animal hoarding disorder in Curitiba, Brazil. METHODS: 65 residences with register of animal hoarder behavior were visited and 11 residences were included in the study, with a total of 19 individuals consenting participation. A short questionnaire was applied to gather information regarding hoarders and their dogs/cats, and serum samples were screened to detect antibodies (IgG) against antigens of Toxocara spp. RESULTS: Overall, 14/19 individuals (73.7%) presented anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies. In 8/11 (72.7%) households at least one person was seropositive. Seropositivity was higher among women (10/13; 76.9%) than men (4/6; 66.7%). A total of 442 dogs (14-30 dogs; average = 23.3 per household) and 31 cats (1-20 cats; average = 4.8 per household) were observed. To the authors' knowledge, this was the first study to survey occurrences of toxocariasis among animal hoarders. The high population densities of dogs observed during visits, in conjunction with absence of veterinary care and unsanitary conditions, may indicate that situations of high levels of animal infection and soil contamination were present. CONCLUSION: In summary, the seroprevalence observed in this study indicated that there was a high risk of Toxocara spp. infection among individuals with animal hoarding disorder. Provision of educational programs to reduce the risk of infection in this population is warranted.

One Health Approach on Ehrlichia canis: Serosurvey of Owners and Dogs, Molecular Detection in Ticks, and Associated Risk Factors in Tick-Infested Households of Southern Brazil.

Background: Ehrlichia canis has been the main hemopathogen affecting domestic dogs in Brazil. Even though tick-infested dogs may lead to household infestation and predispose human exposure and public health concern, no comprehensive study has surveyed humans, dogs, and environmental ticks altogether. Materials and Methods: Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess tick-infested households, identify tick species, perform serological (immunofluorescence assay) and molecular (PCR and q-PCR) detection of Ehrlichia in ticks, in the eighth biggest metropolitan area of Brazil. Results: Between 2007 and 2020, 233/5973 (3.9%) out of all complaints were from tick-infested households of 200 different addresses. Overall, 370/552 (67.0%) ticks were collected and identified as adult and 182/552 (33.0%) as immature forms of Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. complex; a single tick from one owner, a female tick of Amblyomma sculptum; and 395 ticks from dogs, 319/395 (80.8%) adult and 72/395 (18.2%) immature forms of Rhipicephalus spp., and 4/395 (1.01%) female Amblyomma aureolatum. Overall, 2/135 (1.5%) owners and 13/136 (9.6%) dogs were seropositive for E. canis. The DNA of Anaplasmataceae family was molecularly detected in 16/50 (32.0%) R. sanguineus s.l. As expected, the number of monthly tick infestation complaints were directly associated, and mean (p = 0.01), maximum (p = 0.011), and minimum (p = 0.008) temperature were statistically significant and had a low positive correlation (0.24, 0.23, and 0.24, respectively). In addition, complaints were highly associated to all socioeconomic variables (p < 0.001), with the exception of the presence of vacant lots. Conclusions: Despite low samplings and human negative results, areas with low-income with adequate temperature and urban agglomerations have been shown to be associated risks for tick infestations, predisposing tick-borne diseases. In conclusion, monitoring should always be conducted in such areas, including One Health approach with serosurvey of owners and dogs, along with identification and molecular screening of ticks.

One Health approach for Brucella canis: Serological and molecular detection in animal-hoarding individuals and their dogs.

Animal hoarding disorder (AHD) is classified as a psychiatric obsessive-compulsive condition characterized by animal accumulation and often accompanied by unsanitary conditions and animal cruelty. Although AHD may increase pathogen transmission and spread, particularly for zoonotic diseases, human and dog exposure in such cases has yet to be fully established. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess Brucella canis in 19 individuals with AHD (11 households) and their 264 dogs (21 households) in Curitiba, the eighth largest city in Brazil, with approximately 1.8 million habitants. Anti-B. canis antibodies were detected by the 2-mercaptoethanol microplate agglutination test (2ME-MAT) and by a commercial lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA), while molecular detection of previously positive seropositive samples was performed by conventional PCR. Although all the human samples were 2ME-MAT negative, 12/264 (4.5%, 95% Confidence Interval: 2.0-7.0%) dog samples were 2ME-MAT and LFIA positive, with 2ME-MAT titers ranging from 20 to 640. At least one dog in 4/21 (19.0%, 95% CI: 2.0-46.0%) households was seropositive. Despite the absence of seropositivity in individuals with AHD and the comparatively low seroprevalence in dogs, B. canis circulation and outbreaks should be considered in such human populations due to the high burden and recurrent character of B. canis exposure in high-density dog populations and the constant introduction of susceptible animals.

Serosurvey of Toxoplasma gondii and Toxocara spp. co-infection in pregnant women in low-income areas of Brazil.

Introduction: Despite human toxoplasmosis and toxocariasis having been listed among the top six most neglected parasitic zoonoses worldwide, presenting similar associated risk factors and transmission routes, few studies have been conducted in pregnant women and the consequences of concurrent infection remain to be fully established. Accordingly, the present study has serologically assessed the co-infection and associated risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii and Toxocara spp. in pregnant women, assisted by the public Unified National Health System (SUS) in southeastern Brazil. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected and tested for IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii by chemiluminescence immunoassay and against Toxocara spp. by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). An epidemiological questionnaire was applied to gather socioeconomic information to assess the risk factors associated with seropositivity to toxocariasis/toxoplasmosis by univariate analysis followed by logistic regression. Results: Overall, seropositivity was 69/280 (24.6, 95% CI: 19.96-30.01) for T. gondii and 56/280 (20.0, 95% CI: 15.73-25.08) for Toxocara spp. Co-infection was observed in 25/280 (8.9, 95% CI: 6.12-12.85) pregnant women, with increased odds (OR: 3.3, CI 95%: 1.77-6.14, p = 0.0002). Logistic regression revealed that a higher educational level (high school or college) significantly reduced the likelihood of co-infection seropositivity, owning cats increased the odds of toxocariasis, and older pregnant women presented significantly higher T. gondii seropositivity. Conclusion: Co-infection herein highlights the importance of educational programs in the prevention of toxocariasis and toxoplasmosis in pregnant women and other high-risk populations.

Serosurvey of Coxiella burnetii in Descendants of Former Black Slaves (Quilombola Communities) of Southern Brazil.

Brazilian descendants of former Black-slave (quilombola) communities have been predisposed to several zoonotic diseases due to social vulnerability, characterized by subsistence and close contact with livestock and companion animals. Accordingly, the present study has assessed anti-Coxiella burnetii antibodies in 200 individuals and 20 dogs from four quilombola communities located in Paraná State, southern Brazil. Serum samples were tested by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) using in-house and commercial diagnostic protocols, with analysis of seropositive titers and antibody type. Fisher's exact test was used to compare seropositivity to C. burnetti with binary variables, with variables with three or more possible responses submitted to logistic regression. In total, 44/200 (22%; 95% CI 16.82-28.24) people tested positive, and 4.5% had titers higher than 128, indicating a recent onset of C. burnetii infection. Seropositive individuals were statistically associated with the Limitão community (p = 0.0013), urban workers as occupations (p = 0.0475), consumption of undercooked meat (p = 0.0159), and contact with animal abortion (p = 0.0276). No seropositivity association was found for age, sex, education, habit of entering forest areas, consumption of game meat, consumption of raw milk, flea and tick bites, dog contact, or history of female miscarriage. Only one of 20 dogs was seropositive with a titer of 128, probably related to an acute animal infection. Despite the prevalence here being higher than previous Brazilian reports, including with symptomatic populations, the results were within range for worldwide outbreaks and occupational risk populations. To the reader's knowledge, this is the first human survey of Q fever in southern Brazil and should be considered a warning for C. burnetii in vulnerable populations, particularly Quilombola communities.

Coxiella burnetii seroprevalence in sheep herd from Paraguay: First evidence of bacterial circulation in the country.

Coxiella burnetii is the agent of Q fever, a disease that poses risks to public health and damages livestock. We discovered the circulation of C. burnetii for the first time in Paraguay, based on the seropositivity of a flock of >300 sheep. The animals were tested by IFA for anti-C. burnetii antibodies and by SAM for anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies, an important differential diagnosis for reproductive disorders in sheep in Paraguay. C. burnetii seropositivity was determined in 45%, in contrast to Leptospira spp. which had no reactive samples. Cases of miscarriage and fetal resorption were associated with high seropositivity titers. This study suggests the circulation of a unique genotype in the country and an imminent risk to public health, since in addition to being highly transmissible and infectious to humans, Q fever is still not a cause for concern on the part of government and health agencies in the country.

Serological and Molecular Survey of Brucella Species in Owners and Their Dogs Living on Island and Mainland Seashore Areas of Brazil.

Background: Although Brucella abortus, Brucella suis, and Brucella canis may infect humans and dogs worldwide, no study to date has assessed and compared owners and their dogs between island and mainland seashore areas. Materials and Methods: Accordingly, the study herein has applied serological tests, including Microplate Agglutination Test with 2-Mercaptoethanol, immunochromatographic assay, and Rose Bengal Test, and a Brucella genus-specific PCR assay to 195 owners and their 148 dogs living on 1 mainland seashore area and three nearby oceanic islands of southern Brazil. Results: No seropositivity to B. abortus and B. suis was detected in owner or dog sera. Anti-B. canis seropositivity was observed in 3/148 (2.0%) dogs, but no owner sample was seropositive to B. canis. In addition, all blood samples from both owners and dogs were negative on Brucella genus-specific PCR assay. Conclusions: The seropositive dogs were not related and lived on the seashore mainland area of Guaraqueçaba city. The absence of seropositivity on the islands and the low seropositivity on the seashore mainland could be attributed to geographic isolation, and suggest the low impact of the disease in the region. Despite being a zoonotic disease, brucellosis by B. canis is not included in the National Program for Control and Eradication of Brucellosis, and its diagnosis and notification are not mandatory. The presence of seropositive dogs highlights the risk to human health and the importance of epidemiological surveillance actions in the region, as well as the need for the implantation of preventive measures to avoid the transmission of the pathogen.