Widespread resistance to anticoagulant rodenticides in Mus musculus domesticus in the city of Barcelona.

Control of rodent populations is a big challenge because of the rapid evolution of resistance to commonly used rodenticides and the collateral negative impacts that these products may have on biodiversity. Second-generation anticoagulants are very efficient but different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Vkorc1 gene may confer resistance in rodents. We sequenced exons 1, 2 and 3 of the Vkorc1 gene from 111 mice (Mus musculus domesticus) captured across the city of Barcelona and found SNPs associated with resistance to first- and second-generation anticoagulants in all of them. Although most of the SNPs were associated with resistance to bromadiolone, we also found SNPs associated with resistance to brodifacoum. Out of all the individuals analyzed, 94.59 % carried mutations associated to introgression events with Mus spretus, a sympatric rodent species. Currently most of the chemical products for rodent control commercialized in the area are based on bromadiolone, although recent public control campaigns have already shifted to other products. Thus, the widespread occurrence of resistant mice to bromadiolone represents a challenge for rodent control in Barcelona and may increase the risk of secondary poisoning of animals preying on this species. Public health managers, pest control companies and citizens should be aware that the use of bromadiolone based products is ineffective and represents a risk for the environment, including human and animal health.

Molecular detection of Leishmania infantum in rats and sand flies in the urban sewers of Barcelona, Spain.

BACKGROUND: Classically, dogs have been considered to be the only reservoir of leishmaniasis in urban areas. However, in a previous study, we found a 33.3% prevalence of Leishmania infantum in the spleens of Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) sampled in the underground sewer system of the city of Barcelona (Spain). The aim of the present study was to verify, using molecular methods, the potential reservoir role of these rats in the same sewer system. METHODS: A sensitive real-time PCR (qPCR) assay, DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were carried out to identify and quantify the presence of L. infantum DNA in sand fly individuals captured in the same underground sewer system of Barcelona as in our previous study and in the spleens and ears of rats captured in the same sewer system. RESULTS: Leishmania infantum DNA was found in 14 of the 27 (51.9%) sand flies identified as Phlebotomus perniciosus, and 10 of the 24 (41.7%) rats studied were infected. Leishmania infantum was found in the spleens (70%) and in the ears (40%) of the infected rats. Quantitative results revealed the presence of high loads of L. infantum in the rats studied (> 3 × 106 parasites/g ear tissue) and among the sand flies (> 34 × 106 parasites in 1 individual). CONCLUSIONS: The molecular methods used in this study demonstrated a high prevalence of L. infantum in the underground sewer populations of both R. norvegicus and P. perniciosus. These results suggest that sewer rats, in addition to dogs, are likely to act as reservoirs of leishmaniasis in cities, where sewer systems seem to offer the ideal scenario for the transmission of leishmaniasis. Therefore, to achieve the WHO 2030 target on the elimination of leishmaniasis as a public health problem successfully, an efficient control strategy against leishmaniasis in rats and sand flies should be implemented, particularly in the sewer systems of urban areas of endemic countries.

Effectiveness of the Modification of Sewers to Reduce the Reproduction of Culex pipiens and Aedes albopictus in Barcelona, Spain.

Mosquitoes breeding in urban sewage infrastructure are both a source of nuisance to the local population and a public health risk, given that biting mosquitoes can transmit pathogenic organisms to humans. The increasing presence of the invasive mosquito species Aedes albopictus in European cities has further exacerbated the problems already caused by native Culex pipiens. We tested the effectiveness of modifications to sewage structures as an alternative to the use of biocides to prevent mosquito breeding. The placing of a layer of concrete at the bottom of sand sewers to prevent water accumulation completely eliminated mosquito reproduction, and so eliminates the need for biocides in modified structures. Sewer modification is thus a valid low-cost alternative for mosquito control.

One Health Approach to Zoonotic Parasites: Molecular Detection of Intestinal Protozoans in an Urban Population of Norway Rats, Rattus norvegicus, in Barcelona, Spain.

Rattus norvegicus, the brown or Norway rat, is the most abundant mammal after humans in urban areas, where they live in close proximity to people. Among rodent-borne diseases, the reservoir role of Norway rats of zoonotic parasites in cities has practically been ignored. Considering the parasitic diseases in the One Health approach, we intended to identify and quantify the zoonotic intestinal protozoans (ZIP) in an urban population of R. norvegicus in the city of Barcelona, Spain. We studied the presence of ZIP in 100 rats trapped in parks (n = 15) as well as in the city's sewage system (n = 85) in the winter of 2016/17. The protozoans were molecularly identified by means of a multiplex PCR (AllplexTM Gastrointestinal Panel-Parasite Assay). We also investigated the presence of co-infections among the species found. Four ZIP were identified, presenting significant prevalences in sewers, specifically Blastocystis (83.5%), Giardia duodenalis (37.7%), Cryptosporidium spp. (34.1%), and Dientamoeba fragilis (14.1%). Several co-infections among the detected ZIP were also detected. The reservoir role of ZIP that Norway rats play in cities as well as the role rats may play as sentinels of zoonotic parasites affecting humans in urban areas are strongly backed up by our findings. The increasing worldwide urbanization, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic are factors that are producing an increase in human-rat interactions. Our results should be considered a warning to the authorities to intensify rat control and surveillance in public health interventions.

Leishmaniasis in Norway Rats in Sewers, Barcelona, Spain.

We detected Leishmania infantum in 98 Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) trapped in parks and sewers of Barcelona, Spain. The 84 rats from the sewers showed a prevalence of 33.3% and up to 2,272 estimated parasites. These results, in the most abundant potential reservoir in cities, is of public health concern.

First survey on zoonotic helminthosis in urban brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) in Spain and associated public health considerations.

The brown rat, Rattus norvegicus, with a worldwide distribution, is the most commensal species among synanthropic rodents, since its main habitat, in urban as well as in rural areas, is always linked to humans. Therefore, people living in close proximity to rodent populations can be exposed to infection. Whereas bacteria and viruses are the best known rat-associated zoonoses in urban environments, the role of brown rats as reservoirs for helminth parasites and the associated risk for humans are less well known. Specifically, this role has not been analyzed in Spain to date. A total of 100 R. norvegicus trapped in the sewage system (n = 85), and parks (n = 15) of Barcelona was examined. The overall prevalence of helminth infection was 85%. The helminths found were Hymenolepis nana (17%), H. diminuta (33%) (Cestoda), Calodium hepaticum (17%), Eucoleus gastricus (28%), Aonchotheca annulosa (12%), Trichosomoides crassicauda (7%), Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (46%), Heterakis spumosa (62%), Gongylonema neoplasticum (20%) (Nematoda) and Moniliformis moniliformis (6%) (Acanthocephala). Five of the ten helminth species are considered zoonotic parasites, with rats acting as reservoirs for human infection, i.e. H. nana, H. diminuta, C. hepaticum, G. neoplasticum and M. moniliformis. G. neoplasticum and M. moniliformis are reported for the first time in urban rats in Europe. H. nana, H. diminuta and C. hepaticum are the most widespread species in European cities. For H. nana and C. hepaticum, rats act as effective spreaders of the human infective stage (eggs). For H. diminuta, G. neoplasticum and M. moniliformis, rats act as indirect reservoirs of the zoonoses since the eggs shed by the rats are infective for their insect intermediate hosts only. Medical practitioners need to be made aware of the range of parasites carried by rats, as there is a realistic likelihood that ill health currently caused by rat infestations may be misdiagnosed.

Imported Zika Virus in a European City: How to Prevent Local Transmission?

Background: On February 1st 2016 the WHO declared the Zika Virus (ZIKV) infection a worldwide public health emergency because of its rapid expansion and severe complications, such as Guillain-Barré Syndrome or microcephaly in newborn. The huge amount of people traveling to endemic areas and the presence of Aedes albopictus in Barcelona increase the risk of autochtonous transmission. The objective of this study was to describe the first ZIKV cases diagnosed in our city and to analyze the surveillance, prevention, and control measures implemented to avoid autochthonous transmission. Methods: An observational cross-sectional population-based study in Barcelona, Spain was performed.An analysis of the socio-demographic, epidemiological, clinical characteristics, and mosquito control activities of the ZIKV cases detected between January 1st and December 2016 was carried out using a specific ZIKV epidemiological survey of the Barcelona Public Health Agency. Results: A total of 118 notifications of possible ZIKV infections were received, and 44 corresponded to confirmed cases in Barcelona residents.Amongst these, the median age was 35 years and 57% were women. All cases were imported, 48% were Spanish-born and 52% foreign-born. Dominican Republic was the most visited country amongst foreign-born patients and Nicaragua amongst Spanish-born. The most frequent symptoms were exanthema, fever, and arthralgia. Among the 24 diagnosed women, 6 (25%) were pregnant. There was one case of microcephaly outside Barcelona city. Entomological inspections were done at the homes of 19 cases (43.2% of the total) and in 34 (77.3%) public spaces. Vector activity was found in one case of the 44 confirmed cases, and 134 surveillance and vector control were carried out associated to imported ZIKV cases. In all cases prevention measures were recommended to avoid mosquito bites on infected cases. Conclusion: Epidemiological and entomological surveillance are essential for the prevention of autochthonous transmission of arbovirosis that may have a great impact on Public Health.The good coordination between epidemiologists, entomologists, microbiologists, and clinicians is a priority in a touristic city with an intense relationship with endemic countries to minimize the risk of local transmission by competent vectors.

[Confirmed Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika Cases during the Period 2014 to 2016 in Barcelona, Spain]. / Casos confirmados de Dengue, Chikungunya y Zika en Barcelona capital durante el período de 2014 al 2016.

OBJECTIVE: Arbovirus infections are a group of diseases whose incidence is increasing and that entail an important problem for public health. The aim of this study was to describe detected cases of arbovirosis in Barcelona, and surveillance and control actions performed in order to reduce the risk of transmission. METHODS: Descriptive cross-sectional study of confirmed dengue, chikungunya and Zika cases in Barcelona during 2014-2016 (1st trimester). Suspected cases detected in the city were notified to the Epidemiology Department of the Barcelona Public Health Agency, where an epidemiological survey is undertaken and, if appropriate, Urban Pests Surveillance and Control Department is contacted. They perform an entomological inspection and implement control and monitoring actions. We collected sociodemographical, epidemiological, clinical and entomological variables. RESULTS: In 2014, 50 chikungunya and 20 dengue cases were detected; 25 entomological inspections were carried out in residences and 38 in the street. In 2015, 47 chikungunya, 51 dengue and 2 Zika cases were detected; 27 inspections were carried out in residences and 80 in the street. In 2016, 17 chikungunya, 52 dengue and 48 Zika cases were detected; 50 inspections were carried out in residences and 103 in the street. No autochtonous case was detected. CONCLUSIONS: We observed an increasing incidence of arbovirosis cases during the 3-year study period. There was a progressive intensification of vector surveillance and control actions (inspections, sample collection…).

OBJETIVO: Las infecciones por arbovirus son un grupo de enfermedades cuya incidencia está aumentando y que suponen un problema importante para la salud pública. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir los casos detectados de arbovirosis en la ciudad de Barcelona y las actuaciones de vigilancia y control realizadas para reducir el riesgo de transmisión. METODOS: Estudio descriptivo transversal de casos confirmados de dengue, chikungunya y Zika en Barcelona durante el período de 2014 al 2016. Los casos sospechosos detectados en la ciudad se notificaron al Servicio de Epidemiología de la Agencia de Salud Pública de Barcelona (ASPB), donde se realizó una encuesta epidemiológica y, si procedía, se contactaba con el Servicio de Vigilancia y Control de Plagas Urbanas. Desde allí se realizó la inspección entomológica y se llevaron a cabo acciones de control y seguimiento. Se recogieron variables sociodemográficas, epidemiológicas, clínicas y entomológicas de los casos. RESULTADOS: En 2014 se detectaron 50 casos de virus chikungunya y 20 de dengue, realizándose 25 inspecciones entomológicas en domicilios y 38 en la vía pública. En 2015 se detectaron 47 casos de chikungunya, 51 de dengue y 2 de Zika, realizándose 27 inspecciones entomológicas en domicilios y 80 en vía pública. En 2016 se detectaron 17 casos de chikungunya, 52 de dengue y 48 de Zika, realizándose 50 inspecciones entomológicas en domicilio y 103 en vía pública. No se detectó ningún caso autóctono. CONCLUSIONES: Se observó un aumento creciente de los casos de arbovirosis durante los 3 años de estudio. Se intensificaron progresivamente las actuaciones de vigilancia y control vectorial (inspecciones, muestras recogidas…).

Reducing the availability of food to control feral pigeons: changes in population size and composition.

BACKGROUND: As feeding by humans is one of the main food resources to pigeons (Columba livia), there is general agreement that public education that aims to reduce the food base may be the most feasible way to reduce pigeon abundance. However, except for the classic example of Basel, the method has rarely been tested or implemented. We provide results from a 1 year study in the city of Barcelona where we tested the effect of public education on pigeon population abundance and composition. RESULTS: The quantity of food provided by people to pigeons was significantly reduced during the study. Feral pigeon density was reduced by 40% in the two experimental districts, but no variation was detected in the control district. Detailed analyses in one of the districts showed that the reduction was mainly related to the reduction in food availability but not to culling. Pigeons captured at the end of the experiment were larger than at the start of the study, but body condition was reduced. CONCLUSION: Results show the effectiveness of public information to manage feral pigeon populations in a large city, and that control operations can exert important selection pressure on the population, leading to changes in population composition. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Prevalence of Extended-Spectrum-ß-Lactamase- and/or Carbapenemase-Producing Escherichia coli Isolated from Yellow-Legged Gulls from Barcelona, Spain.

Seventy-two (54.5%) out of 132 fecal samples from a group of yellow-legged gulls in Barcelona, Spain, were positive for Escherichia coli producing either extended-spectrum ß-lactamases (ESBL) (51.5%), carbapenemase (1.5%), or cephamycinase (1.5%). The isolation of two carbapenemase-producing E. coli strains is a matter of concern.

Casos confirmados de Dengue, Chikungunya y Zika en Barcelona capital durante el período de 2014 al 2016 / Confirmed Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika cases during the period 2014 to 2016 in Barcelona, Spain

Fundamentos: Las infecciones por arbovirus son un grupo de enfermedades cuya incidencia está aumentando y que suponen un problema importante para la salud pública. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir los casos detectados de arbovirosis en la ciudad de Barcelona y las actuaciones de vigilancia y control realizadas para reducir el riesgo de transmisión. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo transversal de casos confirmados de dengue, chikungunya y Zika en Barcelona durante el período de 2014 al 2016. Los casos sospechosos detectados en la ciudad se notificaron al Servicio de Epidemiología de la Agencia de Salud Pública de Barcelona (ASPB), donde se realizó una encuesta epidemiológica y, si procedía, se contactaba con el Servicio de Vigilancia y Control de Plagas Urbanas. Desde allí se realizó la inspección entomológica y se llevaron a cabo acciones de control y seguimiento. Se recogieron variables sociodemográficas, epidemiológicas, clínicas y entomológicas de los casos. Resultados: En 2014 se detectaron 50 casos de virus chikungunya y 20 de dengue, realizándose 25 inspecciones entomológicas en domicilios y 38 en la vía pública. En 2015 se detectaron 47 casos de chikungunya, 51 de dengue y 2 de Zika, realizándose 27 inspecciones entomológicas en domicilios y 80 en vía pública. En 2016 se detectaron 17 casos de chikungunya, 52 de dengue y 48 de Zika, realizándose 50 inspecciones entomológicas en domicilio y 103 en vía pública. No se detectó ningún caso autóctono. Conclusiones: Se observó un aumento creciente de los casos de arbovirosis durante los 3 años de estudio. Se intensificaron progresivamente las actuaciones de vigilancia y control vectorial (inspecciones, muestras recogidas…) (AU)

Background: Arbovirus infections are a group of diseases whose incidence is increasing and that entail an important problem for public health. The aim of this study was to describe detected cases of arbovirosis in Barcelona, and surveillance and control actions performed in order to reduce the risk of transmission. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study of confirmed dengue, chikungunya and Zika cases in Barcelona during 2014-2016. Suspected cases detected in the city were notified to the Epidemiology Department of the Barcelona Public Health Agency, where an epidemiological survey is undertaken and, if appropriate, Urban Pests Surveillance and Control Department is contacted. They perform an entomological inspection and implement control and monitoring actions. We collected sociodemographical, epidemiological, clinical and entomological variables. Results: In 2014, 50 chikungunya and 20 dengue cases were detected; 25 entomological inspections were carried out in residences and 38 in the street. In 2015, 47 chikungunya, 51 dengue and 2 Zika cases were detected; 27 inspections were carried out in residences and 80 in the street. In 2016, 17 chikungunya, 52 dengue and 48 Zika cases were detected; 50 inspections were carried out in residences and 103 in the street. No autochtonous case was detected. Conclusions: We observed an increasing incidence of arbovirosis cases during the 3-year study period. There was a progressive intensification of vector surveillance and control actions (inspections, sample collection…) (AU)

Decline in hospitalisations due to dog bite injuries in Catalonia, 1997-2008. An effect of government regulation?

OBJECTIVE: To analyse population-based data on hospitalisation caused by dog bite injuries after changes in legal regulations on dog ownership, including breed-specific regulations. DESIGN: Descriptive study. SETTING: Hospitals in Catalonia (Spain), 1997-2008. SUBJECTS: Persons hospitalised with injuries caused by dog bites. RESULTS: There has been a significant decline in hospitalisation caused by injuries from dog bites from 1.80/100,000 in 1997-9 to 1.11/100,000 in 2006-8, after the enactment of stricter regulations on dog ownership in 1999 and 2002. The magnitude of this change is significant (-38%), and has been greatest in less urban settings. CONCLUSIONS: Government regulations were associated with a sizable decrease in injuries caused by dog bites in Catalonia. More evaluative studies in this field may provide criteria to focus future regulations and other preventive interventions.

Evaluación de la calidad en salud pública: aplicación a un centro de acogida de animales de compañía / Quality evaluation in public health: the case of an animal shelter

ObjetivoHay un creciente interés por incorporar criterios de calidad a la gestión de los servicios públicos. Este trabajo propone un esquema integral de evaluación de la calidad del servicio del Centro de Acogida de Animales de Compañía gestionado por los servicios de salud pública de Barcelona.MétodosSe realizó una evaluación con tres componentes: la información recogida por los indicadores de actividad del centro (2000–2006), la conformidad con las normas legales e internas de los resultados de una auditoría interna (2006), y la satisfacción de los usuarios/clientes mediante una encuesta de satisfacción basada en el modelo SERVPERF (2006).Resultados Durante este periodo los animales sacrificados se redujeron casi un 70% y aumentaron las adopciones. La auditoría detectó 10 disconformidades (3,2% de los items valorados), sin que ninguna estuviera relacionada con el servicio al cliente. Las dimensiones de calidad del modelo obtuvieron puntuaciones elevadas en la encuesta de satisfacción; la seguridad (94,2%) y la empatía del personal (81,8%) fueron las mejor valoradas. La aparición tras la adopción de problemas de comportamiento (p=0,039) o de salud del animal (p=0,068) se asocia con una menor percepción de calidad.ConclusionesUn esquema de evaluación integral de un servicio de este tipo se revela factible. Se demuestra el cumplimiento con los procedimientos de trabajo establecidos y con la normativa legal vigente. Los resultados de la encuesta muestran un elevado grado de satisfacción de los usuarios(AU)

ObjectiveThere is growing interest in integrating quality approaches to the management of public services. The aim of the present study was to develop a comprehensive evaluation of service quality in the animal shelter managed by the public health services of the city of Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain).ResultsThe number of animals put to sleep was reduced by almost 70% and the number of adoptions increased. The audit detected 10 non-conformities (3.2% of items), none of which was related to customer service. In the satisfaction survey, the quality dimensions with the highest scores were safety (94.2%) and empathy (81.8%). The emergence of behavioral problems (p=0.039) or health problems (p=0.068) in the adopted animals had a negative influence on quality perception among adopters.ConclusionsA comprehensive scheme for the evaluation of this service is feasible. There is compliance with established protocols and regulations. The results of the survey show a high degree of user satisfaction(AU)

[Quality evaluation in public health: the case of an animal shelter]. / Evaluación de la calidad en salud pública: aplicación a un centro de acogida de animales de compañía.

OBJECTIVE: There is growing interest in integrating quality approaches to the management of public services. The aim of the present study was to develop a comprehensive evaluation of service quality in the animal shelter managed by the public health services of the city of Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain). METHODS: An evaluation study with three components was performed. Trends in the shelter's activity indicators (2000-2006) were analyzed, compliance with current regulations and protocols was assessed with an internal audit (2006), and user-customer satisfaction was measured with a survey based on the SERVPERF model (2006). RESULTS: The number of animals put to sleep was reduced by almost 70% and the number of adoptions increased. The audit detected 10 non-conformities (3.2% of items), none of which was related to customer service. In the satisfaction survey, the quality dimensions with the highest scores were safety (94.2%) and empathy (81.8%). The emergence of behavioral problems (p=0.039) or health problems (p=0.068) in the adopted animals had a negative influence on quality perception among adopters. CONCLUSIONS: A comprehensive scheme for the evaluation of this service is feasible. There is compliance with established protocols and regulations. The results of the survey show a high degree of user satisfaction.

[Advances in the management of an animal shelter]. / Avances en la gestión de un centro de acogida de animales de compañía.

Changes in the Barcelona animal shelter from 2002 to 2005 are presented. In 2003, routine euthanasia of unclaimed stray animals was discontinued, due to a political decision of the city council. Changes were also made in the management of the shelter: from January 2003 to July 2004 the shelter was operated by an animal protection organization, and then directly again by the city public health agency. Management of the shelter by the animal welfare organization was associated with an increase in the proportion of dogs rescued and adopted. The suspension of routine euthanasia was associated with a marked increase in the number of stray dogs. Canine distemper became endemic in the shelter until late 2004, due to a certain unwillingness to use euthanasia to control infection transmission. Direct operation by public health services in a context of transparency and high social expectations has led to the development and adoption of standardized work protocols in the shelter, improving quality.

Avances en la gestión de un centro de acogida de animales de compañía / Advances in the management of an animal shelter

Se presenta la evolución del centro de acogida de animales de compañía de la ciudad de Barcelona de 2002 a 2005. Por mandato municipal se suspenden de forma general los sacrificios desde 2003. Se producen cambios de gestión, asumida durante los meses que van de enero de 2003 a julio de 2004 por una entidad protectora, y luego directamente por los servicios de salud pública. La gestión de una protectora conllevó notables incrementos en el número de animales rescatados y adoptados. La suspensión del sacrificio se acompañó de un extraordinario incremento de la tasa de abandonos. La reticencia en eutanasiar a animales aquejados de enfermedades infecciosas generó una endemia de moquillo, que se controló a finales de 2004. La recuperación de la gestión directa por los servicios de salud pública en un contexto de transparencia y exigencia social ha llevado al desarrollo y la adopción de protocolos de trabajo sistematizados, que mejoran la calidad

Changes in the Barcelona animal shelter from 2002 to 2005 are presented. In 2003, routine euthanasia of unclaimed stray animals was discontinued, due to a political decision of the city council. Changes were also made in the management of the shelter: from January 2003 to July 2004 the shelter was operated by an animal protection organization, and then directly again by the city public health agency. Management of the shelter by the animal welfare organization was associated with an increase in the proportion of dogs rescued and adopted. The suspension of routine euthanasia was associated with a marked increase in the number of stray dogs. Canine distemper became endemic in the shelter until late 2004, due to a certain unwillingness to use euthanasia to control infection transmission. Direct operation by public health services in a context of transparency and high social expectations has led to the development and adoption of standardized work protocols in the shelter, improving quality