A molecular strategy to optimize bovine tuberculosis post-mortem diagnosis and the exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis variant bovis.

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a zoonotic disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis var. bovis, for which the definitive diagnosis is accomplished by bacterial isolation, which has biosafety issues and requires long time. Thus, diagnostic methods with potential to be faster and more efficient can represent an advance in bTB epidemiological knowledge and decrease exposure to M. tuberculosis var. bovis. This study aimed to validate a molecular test for bTB post-mortem diagnosis, as a strategy to reduce waste in bovine production. A total of 185 tissues from animals of infected herds or with suspected lesions at abattoir were evaluated through bacterial isolation, PCR and histopathology. PCR and histopathology showed sensitivities of 45.1% and 71.2%, respectively, and specificities of 83.3% and 83.0%, respectively, when compared to bacterial isolation. The combination of both tests resulted in enhanced specificity and positive predictive values.Therefore, PCR in conjunction with histopathology may be used as screening, in which concordant results can be considered conclusive, and discordant results may be submitted to bacterial isolation.

Investigation of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies and leptospiruria in cats attended to a veterinary teaching hospital in southern Brazil.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonosis that affects both humans and animals worldwide. Currently, it is known that cats may be susceptible to infection. This study aims to investigate the presence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies and leptospiruria in cats, using Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) and Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) techniques, respectively. A total of 76 cats, undergoing comprehensive anamnesis, general physical examination, and complementary exams were included in the investigation. Among the 76 cats tested, 9.2% (7/76) exhibited the presence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies, while Leptospira spp. DNA was detected in at 1.3% (1/76) of the evaluated urine samples. No significant associations were observed between the serological and molecular diagnostic results and the assessed variables, including clinical data and laboratory results of cats testing positive. This study provides insight into the occurrence of Leptospira spp. infection and leptospiruria in cats treated at a veterinary teaching hospital in southern Brazil.

Assessing leptospirosis and toxoplasmosis seropositivity in wild boars (Sus scrofa): Implications for public and animal health in Southern Brazil.

Leptospirosis and toxoplasmosis are re-emerging zoonosis caused by infection with pathogenic spirochaetes of Leptospira and the protozoa Toxoplasma gondii, respectively. Wild boars (Sus scrofa), an exotic invasive species in Brazil, could play a role in the diseases' epidemiological cycles, but this issue is still unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the Leptospira spp. and T. gondii seropositivity in wild boars in Rio Grande do Sul state, south Brazil. Of evaluated animals, 16% (13/80) and 85% (52/61) had antibodies to T. gondii and Leptospira spp., respectively. Sex, weight, age, hunt location and season of hunt were evaluated by their association with seropositivity for both pathogens, but none of them had statistical significance. This study revealed that wild boars should be considered as a potential source of Leptospira spp. and T. gondii dissemination for humans and animal species in shared environments in Rio Grande do Sul state.

Condemnation of bovine carcasses due to tuberculosis-gross lesions in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: Associated risk factors.

Surveillance of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) lesions in animals at slaughterhouses is useful for controlling and eradicating the disease, besides providing epidemiological information. This study aimed to identify risk factors for bovine tuberculosis (bTB) condemnation in cattle at slaughterhouses in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. A logistic regression analysis was conducted using data on bTB-related condemnations. Variables examined included animal origin, number of slaughtered animals, season, inspection level (state or municipality), animal sex, and slaughterhouse location. A total of 297,817 Animal Transport Guides were evaluated, representing the transportation of 3497,521 animals. Among these, 6097 (2.05%) had at least one animal condemned due to bTB lesions. Risk factors for condemnation included larger batch sizes, female animals, slaughterhouses, and animal origin. The higher condemnation frequency in females and regions with dairy farms suggests links to milk production. Variation in condemnation rates by inspection level and slaughterhouse highlights the need for standardized procedures in identifying bTB lesions. Identifying these risk factors enables targeted interventions to enhance disease control and eradication efforts.

Molecular survey of porcine respiratory disease complex pathogens in Brazilian wild boars.

Wild boar (Sus scrofa) is an exotic invasive species in Brazil and may be a reservoir for several pathogens, including those related to the porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC), a critical infectious disease in pig production. The objective of this study was to investigate viral and bacterial pathogens related to PRDC in free-living wild boars from Brazil. Eighty animals were examined in search of genomes of porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2), Torque teno Sus virus 1a (TTSuV1a) and 1b (TTSuV1b), Influenza A virus (IAV), Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Glaesserella parasuis, Pasteurella multocida, and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae. The results demonstrated that 57.5% (46/80) of the animals had at least one detected pathogen, and 11.3% of them (9/80) were co-infected. TTSuV1a was the most prevalent genome, for which risk factors were associated with increased contact between wild boars and other animals. The other pathogens were detected at much lower frequencies or not detected (M. hyopneumoniae and IAV). An additional IAV serology search identified H1N1pdm09 antibodies in 35.5% (16/45) of the wild boars, bringing concern related to public health. In conclusion, wild boars are infected with pathogens that cause swine diseases, so their eventual contact with domestic pigs might risk animal production in Brazil.

Multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli from free-living pigeons (Columba livia): Insights into antibiotic environmental contamination and detection of resistance genes.

Bacterial resistance is a public and one health problem. Free-living birds can be reservoirs of multidrug-resistant bacteria and resistance genes. This study aimed to characterize the antimicrobial resistance of Escherichia coli isolated from free-living urban pigeons (Columba livia) in South Brazil. Ninety-two animals were sampled, and one isolate was obtained from each one. The isolates were characterized, and the antimicrobial resistance profile and beta-lactam and colistin resistance genes were investigated. The isolates were classified as phylogroups B1 (35%), B2 (33%), A (16%) and D (16%), and 14% of the strains had the eae virulence gene. All isolates were resistant to at least one antimicrobial, and 63% of them were multidrug-resistant. Geographical location where the pigeons were captured and presence of the eae gene were associated with multidrug resistance. blaVIM and mcr-1 genes were detected in one and two isolates, respectively. This is the first report of these genes in E. coli of pigeons. The blaVIM -positive isolate was classified as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, and the isolates with mcr-1 were classified as Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli and Enteropathogenic E. coli, which raise additional concerns related to public health since these are zoonotic pathotypes. The results reveal that pigeons carry multidrug-resistant pathogenic E. coli, which may interest public health. Nonetheless, further studies on whether these animals are sources of contamination for humans must be performed to understand their role in spreading antimicrobial resistance.

Antimicrobial Resistance of Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus Isolated From Healthy Crioulo Horses and Associated Risk Factors.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global concern that must be addressed from a one health perspective. Horses are companion animals and their contact with humans facilitates exchange of resistant bacteria. This study aimed to evaluate AMR of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus (CoPS), including Staphylococcus aureus, isolated from healthy Crioulo horses. Swab samples from nostrils (n = 214) and skin (n = 107) of 107 horses from Porto Alegre, South Brazil, were used for CoPS isolation. The isolates were evaluated for AMR and a multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify the risk factors associated to this outcome, using information on horses' management and installations where they were maintained. A total of 143 CoPS were isolated from 79 horses (73.8%), of which 8 (5.6%) were S. aureus. The isolates showed resistance to seven of 10 tested antimicrobials and 38.5% (55/143) of them were resistant to at least one antimicrobial. One isolate (0.7%; 1/143) was classified as multidrug-resistant. Regarding S. aureus, 62.5 % (5/8) showed AMR, but none were methicillin-resistant. The risk factors associated with CoPS' antimicrobial resistance were lower frequency of bed changing (OR = 6.40; P = .001) and nonaccumulation of bed materials (OR = 3.47; P = .002). The results point that healthy horses have antimicrobial-resistant CoPS and S. aureus in their microbiota, which may be of concern for animal and human health. Moreover, bed management was associated with AMR, which can serve as a guide for best practices to be adopted to avoid the occurrence of resistant bacteria in these animals.

Investigation of Mycobacterium bovis and Metastrongylus sp. co-infection and its relationship to tuberculosis lesions' occurrence in wild boars.

Animal tuberculosis (aTB) is a zoonotic disease characterized by granulomatous lesions on affected tissues, occurring as a consequence of immunological response to infection. Mycobacterium bovis, the main causative agent of aTB, was investigated in Brazilian wild boars with 37.7 % (29/77) positivity. Among these animals, most had no macroscopic tuberculosis-like lesions (89.6 %; 26/29). The existence of co-infections, which may alter an individual's immune response to an immunological challenge, could influence the formation of tuberculosis lesions. Therefore, we investigated Metastrongylus sp. and aTB co-infection to seek an explanation for the absence of macroscopic lesions in aTB. Of the tested animals, 77.9 % (60/77) had Metastrongylus sp., however, there was no association between its occurrence and the pattern of aTB lesions. The absence of tuberculous lesions in infected animals is worrisome, especially to hunters who handle their carcasses, potentially assuming that the animal is healthy. Studies evaluating other possibilities that can explain the absence of lesions in infected animals should be carried out to better understand these findings.

Serosurvey of antibodies against zoonotic pathogens in free-ranging wild canids (Cerdocyon thous and Lycalopex gymnocercus) from Southern Brazil.

The expansion of urbanization on natural areas is increasing contact between human populations with wild animals. Wild carnivores can act as sentinel hosts or environmental health indicators. Thus, the aim of this work was to investigate the exposure of two major species of wild canids from Southern Brazil to selected pathogens. For that, we live-trapped free-ranging Cerdocyon thous and Lycalopex gymnocercus in five localities and determined the frequency of animals with antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii, Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania infantum, Neospora caninum, and Leptospira spp. Among the canids sampled, 23% (12/52) (95%CI: 13-36%) had antibodies against T. gondii, with titers ranging from 64 to 512. For T. cruzi, 28% (15/52) (95%CI: 18-42%) of sampled canids were seropositive, with titers ranging from 8 to 64. Concerning the protozoan pathogen N. caninum, a total of 5% (3/52) (95%CI: 2-15%) of wild canids had antibodies against it. None of the sampled canids showed the presence of antibodies against L. infantum. On the other hand, 44% (23/52) (95%CI: 31-57%) of the wild canids showed antibodies against Leptospira spp. The set of results presented here, show that free-ranging neotropical wild canids are exposed and have antibodies against to T. gondii, T. cruzi, Leptospira spp., and to a lesser degree to N. caninum. We found no evidence of L. infantum circulation among the studied populations. These results highlight some of the major pathogens which may represent risks for populations of these wild canids. DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT: The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Seroepidemiology of ovine toxoplasmosis and neosporosis in breeding rams from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

This study determined the prevalence of ovine toxoplasmosis and neosporosis and the risk factors associated with the development of these diseases in breeding rams from the State of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Southern Brazil. Serum samples (n = 1,800) from breeding rams maintained on 705 sheep farms from seven mesoregions were evaluated serologically to detect anti-IgG Toxoplasma gondii by indirect ELISA and anti-IgG Neospora caninum by the indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). The prevalence of T. gondii was 33.05% (595/1,800); seropositivity to N. caninum was 18.44% (332/1,800). Additionally, there was simultaneous seropositivity (8.94%;161/1,800) to N. caninum and T. gondii. The variables size of the property (<500 ha) (Prevalence Ratio, PR = 1.36); breeding system (semi-intensive/intensive) (PR = 1.23); and natural mounting without control (PR = 1.50) were considered as risk factors for the occurrence of T. gondii. Size of the property (<500 ha) (PR = 1.58) and natural mounting without control (PR = 2.32) were risk factors associated with the prevalence of N. caninum in rams. Additionally, separation of ewes prior to parturition was considered as a protective factor for the occurrence of T. gondii (PR = 0.82) and N. caninum (PR = 0.74). These results demonstrated that these two parasitic disease agents are endemic in rams throughout all regions of RS.

Impact on condemnations of bovine carcasses for tuberculosis and cysticercosis after changes in federal legislation in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (2014-2020) / Impacto nas condenações de carcaças bovídeas por tuberculose e cisticercose após as modificações na legislação federal no estado do Rio Grande do Sul (2014-2020)

The inspection of products of animal origin, carried out by veterinary agricultural inspectors, is based on the Brazilian legislation described in the Regulation of Industrial and Sanitary Inspection of Products of Animal Origin of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply. On March 29, 2017, Decree No. 9,013 was published, which repeals Decree No. 30,691, of 1952, with this, major changes occurred in the legislation described in RIISPOA, such as the criteria used for judging carcasses. The objective of this study was to verify whether these changes had an impact on condemnations of bovine carcasses because of cysticercosis and tuberculosis in the State of Rio Grande do Sul. The number of animals slaughtered and the number of carcasses condemned because of tuberculosis and cysticercosis between 2014 and 2020 were obtained from the database of the Agricultural Defense System (SDA), the official data system of the Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock and Rural Development (SEAPDR), it was possible to observe an increase in the number of cases of carcasses condemned because of cysticercosis and a reduction of animals affected by the disease in the period after the changes in the regulation. The number of carcasses condemned because of tuberculosis, as well as the number of animals affected by the disease, remained stable after the changes in the regulation. The results showed that the changes in federal legislation had a real impact on the historical series of condemnations of bovine carcasses due to cysticercosis in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. In carcasses affected by tuberculosis, the impact of carcass condemnation on the historical series after changes was not significant.

A inspeção de produtos de origem animal, realizada por médicos veterinários fiscais agropecuários, é baseada na legislação brasileira descrita no Regulamento da Inspeção Industrial e Sanitária de Produtos de Origem Animal (RIISPOA) do Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento (MAPA). No dia 29 de março de 2017 foi publicado o Decreto nº 9.013, que revoga o Decreto nº 30.691, de 1952, com isso grandes alterações ocorreram na legislação descrita no RIISPOA, como os critérios de julgamento de carcaças. O objetivo desse estudo foi verificar, se essas alterações tiveram impacto nas condenações de carcaças de bovídeos por cisticercose e tuberculose no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (RS). O número de animais abatidos e o número de carcaças condenadas por tuberculose e cisticercose entre 2014 e 2020 foram obtidos do banco de dados do Sistema de Defesa Agropecuária (SDA), sistema oficial de dados da Secretaria da Agricultura Pecuária e Desenvolvimento Rural (SEAPDR), foi possível observar aumento do número de casos de carcaças condenadas por cisticercose e redução de animais afetados pela enfermidade no período após as alterações no regulamento. O número de carcaças condenadas por tuberculose, assim como o número de animais afetados pela doença se manteve estável após as mudanças no regulamento. Os resultados encontrados mostraram que as modificações na legislação federal trouxeram impacto real na série histórica de condenações de carcaças bovídeas por cisticercose no âmbito do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul enquanto nas carcaças afetadas por tuberculose o impacto das condenações não foi significativo.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in dairy herds in the central region of Minas Gerais State, Brazil.

Neospora caninum is one of the parasites that frequently causes reproductive loses in cattle herds all over the world. Surveys have shown a high prevalence of the parasite in herds; in certain locations, 90% to 100% of dairy holdings are positives according serological tests. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors associated with the increased number of seropositive dairy cattle in the central region of Minas Gerais, the largest milk producer state in Brazil. Samples were collected from 151 dairy herds and from 2915 lactating cows, and were evaluated by an indirect ELISA assay. According to results, animal prevalence was 21.9% (CI 95%: 18.9 to 24.9%), while the herd prevalence it was 98.5% (CI 95%: 97.0 to 99.9%). Poisson regression estimate the herd risk factors associated with the increased number of cases. An increased number of positive animals was related to the previous history of abortion and the presence of dogs. The use of individual natural colostrum feeding and reproductive techniques such as embryo transfer and in vitro fertilization are associated with a reduced number of seropositive animals in the herd. In conclusion, Neospora caninum is overspread across the dairy herds of the region, and it may be causing major economic losses for dairy farmers. The use of reproduction techniques, the access of dogs to the herds and the management of calf colostrum are important issues to be considered in the control of the disease.

Pathogenic Leptospira spp. in bats: Molecular investigation in Southern Brazil.

The present study aimed to investigate the frequency of pathogenic Leptospira spp. in Brazilian bats and to determine possible risk factors associated to it. Ninety two bats of 12 species were evaluated. Whole genomic DNA from kidneys was extracted and real-time PCR specific to pathogenic Leptospira spp. was applied. Association between the frequency of specimens positive for Leptospira spp. and sex, age, bat species or family, season of collection, geographic localization and feeding habits was evaluated. The results showed that 39.13% of analyzed bats were found positive for Leptospira spp. Nine bat species had at least one positive result. There was no association among the evaluated variables and frequency of pathogenic Leptospira spp. Although the limitations due to lack of Leptospira spp. isolation, leptospiral carriage was demonstrated in bats of different species from southern Brazil, which reinforces the need for surveillance of infectious agents in wild animals.

Anti-Leptospira spp antibodies in cart horses of the city of Guaíba, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil

The objective of this study was to evaluated the occurrence of antibodies against Leptospira spp in horses used by communities of carroceiros, informal waste collectors who use horse-drawn wagons, in Guaíba, Rio Grande do Sul.  Additionally, interviews were conducted with owners to assess characteristics of the horses and environmental and work.  Serological testing for Leptospira spp. was performed on blood samples collected from 54 horses using the microscopic agglutination test. Results showed that 50.0% of the horses were seropositive for Leptospira spp and the most frequent serogroup was Leptospira canicola (44, 4%), followed by Leptospira pyrogenes (5, 5%), Leptospira bataviae (3,7%), Leptospira hebdomadis (3,7%), Leptospira icterohaemorrhagiae (1,8%; 1/54), Leptospira australis (1,8%) and Leptospira pomona (1,8%). There were no statistically significant associations among seropositivity for Leptospira spp and age, sex, body score, water source, food storage, cohabitation with dogs, rodent infestation, residential flooding and waste removal services. The prevalence of the Leptospira canicola serogroup, as well as the large number of dogs in close relationship with the horses, carroceiros draws attention to the potential of these animals as a source of Leptospira spp. infection to humans and other animals.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a ocorrência de anticorpos contra Leptospira spp em cavalos utilizados por comunidades de carroceiros, catadores informais que utilizam carroças puxadas a cavalo, em Guaíba, Rio Grande do Sul. Além disso, foram realizadas entrevistas com os proprietários para avaliar as características dos cavalos, o ambiente e o trabalho. Teste sorológico para Leptospira spp. foi realizada em amostras de sangue coletadas de 54 cavalos utilizando o teste de aglutinação microscópica. Os resultados mostraram que 50,0% dos cavalos eram soropositivos para Leptospira spp e o sorogrupo mais frequente foi Leptospira canicola (44, 4%), seguido por Leptospira pyrogenes (5, 5%), Leptospira bataviae (3,7%), Leptospira hebdomadis (3,7%), Leptospira icterohaemorrhagiae (1,8%; 1/54), Leptospira australis (1,8%) e Leptospira pomona (1,8%). Não houve associação estatisticamente significante entre soropositividade para Leptospira spp e idade, sexo, escore corporal, fonte de água, armazenamento de alimentos, convivência com cães, infestação de roedores, serviços de inundação residencial e remoção de resíduos. A prevalência do sorogrupo Leptospira canicola, bem como o grande número de cães em estreita rela-ção com os cavalos, os carroceiros chamam a atenção para o potencial desses animais como fonte de Leptospira spp. infecção em humanos e outros animais

Anti-Leptospira spp antibodies in cart horses of the city of Guaíba, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil

The objective of this study was to evaluated the occurrence of antibodies against Leptospira spp in horses used by communities of carroceiros, informal waste collectors who use horse-drawn wagons, in Guaíba, Rio Grande do Sul.  Additionally, interviews were conducted with owners to assess characteristics of the horses and environmental and work.  Serological testing for Leptospira spp. was performed on blood samples collected from 54 horses using the microscopic agglutination test. Results showed that 50.0% of the horses were seropositive for Leptospira spp and the most frequent serogroup was Leptospira canicola (44, 4%), followed by Leptospira pyrogenes (5, 5%), Leptospira bataviae (3,7%), Leptospira hebdomadis (3,7%), Leptospira icterohaemorrhagiae (1,8%; 1/54), Leptospira australis (1,8%) and Leptospira pomona (1,8%). There were no statistically significant associations among seropositivity for Leptospira spp and age, sex, body score, water source, food storage, cohabitation with dogs, rodent infestation, residential flooding and waste removal services. The prevalence of the Leptospira canicola serogroup, as well as the large number of dogs in close relationship with the horses, carroceiros draws attention to the potential of these animals as a source of Leptospira spp. infection to humans and other animals.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a ocorrência de anticorpos contra Leptospira spp em cavalos utilizados por comunidades de carroceiros, catadores informais que utilizam carroças puxadas a cavalo, em Guaíba, Rio Grande do Sul. Além disso, foram realizadas entrevistas com os proprietários para avaliar as características dos cavalos, o ambiente e o trabalho. Teste sorológico para Leptospira spp. foi realizada em amostras de sangue coletadas de 54 cavalos utilizando o teste de aglutinação microscópica. Os resultados mostraram que 50,0% dos cavalos eram soropositivos para Leptospira spp e o sorogrupo mais frequente foi Leptospira canicola (44, 4%), seguido por Leptospira pyrogenes (5, 5%), Leptospira bataviae (3,7%), Leptospira hebdomadis (3,7%), Leptospira icterohaemorrhagiae (1,8%; 1/54), Leptospira australis (1,8%) e Leptospira pomona (1,8%). Não houve associação estatisticamente significante entre soropositividade para Leptospira spp e idade, sexo, escore corporal, fonte de água, armazenamento de alimentos, convivência com cães, infestação de roedores, serviços de inundação residencial e remoção de resíduos. A prevalência do sorogrupo Leptospira canicola, bem como o grande número de cães em estreita rela-ção com os cavalos, os carroceiros chamam a atenção para o potencial desses animais como fonte de Leptospira spp. infecção em humanos e outros animais(AU)

Occurrence of Leptospira spp. and factors associated with the infection in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil / Ocorrência de Leptospira spp. e fatores associados à infecção em equinos de contingente militar no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

The seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. and infection risk factors were investigated in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. A total of 446 horses were evaluated and categorized into 309 mares, 11 stallions, and 126 horses with an average age of three years. To determine seroprevalence, serum samples from all horses were submitted to the microscopic agglutination test against 12 serovars belonging to nine serogroups, usually circulating in equine populations. To investigate the possible risk factors of infection by Leptospira spp., questionnaires were applied in that military unit. The seroprevalence in the horses with an average age of 3 years, mares, and stallions were 57.94% (73/126), 54.05% (165/309), and 45.45% (5/11), respectively. The main risk factors identified were contact with different water sources, the presence of rodents, and contact with wild and domestic animals. The high seroprevalence of anti­Leptospira spp. antibodies may be associated with the presence of these risk factors. Therefore, the exposure of horses to possible reservoirs of Leptospira spp. should be minimized. Also, the immunoprophylaxis protocol should be reviewed and a shorter interval between vaccinations adopted to control leptospirosis in this herd.(AU)

A soroprevalência de Leptospira spp. e os fatores de risco para infecção foram investigados em cavalos de um contingente militar no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Um total de 446 cavalos foram avaliados e categorizados em 309 éguas, 11 garanhões e 126 cavalos com idade média de três anos. Para determinação da soroprevalência, amostras de soro de todos os equinos foram submetidas ao teste de aglutinação microscópica contra 12 sorovares pertencentes a nove sorogrupos, normalmente circulantes em populações equinas. Para investigar os possíveis fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira spp., foi aplicado um questionário naquela unidade militar. A soroprevalência nos cavalos com idade média de três anos, éguas e garanhões foi de 57,94% (73/126), 54,05% (165/309) e 45,45% (5/11), respectivamente. Os principais fatores de risco identificados foram o contato com diferentes fontes de água, a presença de roedores e o contato com animais silvestres e domésticos. A alta soroprevalência de anticorpos anti­Leptospira spp. pode estar associada à presença desses fatores de risco. Portanto, a exposição destes equinos aos possíveis reservatórios de Leptospira spp. deve ser minimizada. Além disso, o protocolo de imunoprofilaxia deve ser revisto e, possivelmente, um menor intervalo entre as vacinas deve ser adotado para o controle da leptospirose neste plantel.(AU)

Occurrence of Leptospira spp. and factors associated with the infection in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil / Ocorrência de Leptospira spp. e fatores associados à infecção em equinos de contingente militar no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

The seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. and infection risk factors were investigated in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. A total of 446 horses were evaluated and categorized into 309 mares, 11 stallions, and 126 horses with an average age of three years. To determine seroprevalence, serum samples from all horses were submitted to the microscopic agglutination test against 12 serovars belonging to nine serogroups, usually circulating in equine populations. To investigate the possible risk factors of infection by Leptospira spp., questionnaires were applied in that military unit. The seroprevalence in the horses with an average age of 3 years, mares, and stallions were 57.94% (73/126), 54.05% (165/309), and 45.45% (5/11), respectively. The main risk factors identified were contact with different water sources, the presence of rodents, and contact with wild and domestic animals. The high seroprevalence of anti­Leptospira spp. antibodies may be associated with the presence of these risk factors. Therefore, the exposure of horses to possible reservoirs of Leptospira spp. should be minimized. Also, the immunoprophylaxis protocol should be reviewed and a shorter interval between vaccinations adopted to control leptospirosis in this herd.(AU)

A soroprevalência de Leptospira spp. e os fatores de risco para infecção foram investigados em cavalos de um contingente militar no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Um total de 446 cavalos foram avaliados e categorizados em 309 éguas, 11 garanhões e 126 cavalos com idade média de três anos. Para determinação da soroprevalência, amostras de soro de todos os equinos foram submetidas ao teste de aglutinação microscópica contra 12 sorovares pertencentes a nove sorogrupos, normalmente circulantes em populações equinas. Para investigar os possíveis fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira spp., foi aplicado um questionário naquela unidade militar. A soroprevalência nos cavalos com idade média de três anos, éguas e garanhões foi de 57,94% (73/126), 54,05% (165/309) e 45,45% (5/11), respectivamente. Os principais fatores de risco identificados foram o contato com diferentes fontes de água, a presença de roedores e o contato com animais silvestres e domésticos. A alta soroprevalência de anticorpos anti­Leptospira spp. pode estar associada à presença desses fatores de risco. Portanto, a exposição destes equinos aos possíveis reservatórios de Leptospira spp. deve ser minimizada. Além disso, o protocolo de imunoprofilaxia deve ser revisto e, possivelmente, um menor intervalo entre as vacinas deve ser adotado para o controle da leptospirose neste plantel.(AU)

Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium avium Complexes by Real-Time PCR in Bovine Milk from Brazilian Dairy Farms.

Foodborne diseases are a public health problem worldwide. The consumption of contaminated raw milk has been recognized as a major cause of transmission of bovine tuberculosis to humans. Other mycobacteria that may be present in raw milk and may cause diseases are those belonging to the Mycobacterium avium complex. In this study, molecular biology tools were applied to investigate raw milk contamination with Mycobacterium spp. in family dairy farms from Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Furthermore, different variables related to the source of the milk, herd characteristics, and management were evaluated for their effect on milk contamination. Five hundred and two samples were analyzed, of which 354 were from the Northwest region (102 farms with samples from 93 bulk tanks and 261 animals) and 148 from the South region of the state (22 farms with samples from 23 bulk tanks and 125 animals). Among them, 10 (1.99%) and 7 (1.39%) were positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (9 confirmed as Mycobacterium bovis) and M. avium complexes, respectively. There was no difference in the frequencies of positive samples between the regions or the sample sources. Of the positive samples, 4 were collected from a bulk tank (1 positive for M. avium and 3 for M. tuberculosis). Moreover, 1 sample was positive concomitantly for M. tuberculosis and M. avium complexes. On risk analysis, no variable was associated with raw milk contamination by M. tuberculosis complex species. However, washing the udders of all animals and drying them with paper towels were weakly classified as risk factors for M. avium contamination. Positive samples were obtained from both animals and bulk tanks, which emphasizes the importance of tuberculosis control programs and provides evidence that milk monitoring can be used as a control practice. Moreover, the findings of this study reinforce the need for awareness of the problems of raw milk consumption among the general population.

Seroprevalence and intercurrence of reproductive pathogens in cattle from family farms in North of Minas Gerais, Brazil / Soroprevalência e intercorrência de patógenos reprodutivos em bovinos da agricultura familiar no Norte de Minas Gerais, Brasil

The aims of the present study were: to estimate the seroprevalence of Bluetongue vírus (BTV), bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), Brucella abortus and Leptospira spp. in cattle from family farms in North of Minas Gerais; to determine the intercurrence and association among these pathogens; and to assess the possible associated factors to seropositive herds and animals. For this, 476 cows from 46 farms were sampled and evaluated serologically. The seroprevalence in herds and cattle was, respectively, for BTV 100% and 52.0%, for BoHV-1 95.7% and 48.6%, for BVDV 78.3% and 46.1%, for Leptospira spp. 76.1% and 29.1%, and for B. abortus was 0% in herd and cattle. More than 65% of the herds was simultaneously seropositive for BTV, BoHV-1, BVDV and Leptospira spp. Seropositivity for BoHV-1, Leptospira spp. serovar Autumnalis and serovar Hardjoprajitno were associated with abortion, whereas seropositivity for BVDV was associated with BoHV-1. Moreover, association among seropositivity for BVDV, BoHV-1 and Leptospira spp. was also observed. In conclusion, BTV, BoHV-1, BVDV and Leptospira spp. are highly seroprevalent and occurred simultaneously in cattle from family farms in Minas Gerais, indicating the need for the implementation of control measures to avoid economic losses related to these diseases.

Os objetivos do presente estudo foram: i) estimar a soroprevalência de Bluetongue virus (BTV), bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), Brucella abortus e Leptospira spp. em bovinos da agricultura familiar no Norte de Minas Gerais, Brasil; ii) determinar a intercorrência e associação entre esses patógenos; iii) e avaliar os possíveis fatores associados aos rebanhos e animais soropositivos. Para isso, 476 vacas de 46 fazendas foram amostradas e avaliadas sorologicamente. A soroprevalência de rebanhos e animais foi, respectivamente, para BTV de 100% e 52.0%, para BoHV-1 de 95.7% e 48.6%, para BVDV de 78.3% e 46.1%, para Leptospira spp. de 76.1% e 29.1% e para B. abortus de 0% para ambos rebanhos e bovinos. Mais de 65% dos rebanhos foram simultaneamente soropositivos para BTV, BoHV-1, BVDV e Leptospira spp. A soropositividade para BoHV-1, Leptospira spp. sorovar Autumnalis e sorovar Hardjoprajitno foram fatores associados com aborto, enquanto soropositividade para BVDV foi fator associado com BoHV-1. Além disso, associação entre a soropositividade para BVDV, BoHV-1 e Leptospira spp. foi observada. Em conclusão, BTV, BVDV, BoHV-1 e Leptospira spp. são altamente soroprevalentes e ocorrem simultaneamente em bovinos da agricultura familiar de Minas Gerais, indicando a necessidade da implementação de medidas de controle para evitar perdas econômicas relacionadas a essas doenças.

Seroprevalence and intercurrence of reproductive pathogens in cattle from family farms in North of Minas Gerais, Brazil / Soroprevalência e intercorrência de patógenos reprodutivos em bovinos da agricultura familiar no Norte de Minas Gerais, Brasil

The aims of the present study were: to estimate the seroprevalence of Bluetongue vírus (BTV), bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), Brucella abortus and Leptospira spp. in cattle from family farms in North of Minas Gerais; to determine the intercurrence and association among these pathogens; and to assess the possible associated factors to seropositive herds and animals. For this, 476 cows from 46 farms were sampled and evaluated serologically. The seroprevalence in herds and cattle was, respectively, for BTV 100% and 52.0%, for BoHV-1 95.7% and 48.6%, for BVDV 78.3% and 46.1%, for Leptospira spp. 76.1% and 29.1%, and for B. abortus was 0% in herd and cattle. More than 65% of the herds was simultaneously seropositive for BTV, BoHV-1, BVDV and Leptospira spp. Seropositivity for BoHV-1, Leptospira spp. serovar Autumnalis and serovar Hardjoprajitno were associated with abortion, whereas seropositivity for BVDV was associated with BoHV-1. Moreover, association among seropositivity for BVDV, BoHV-1 and Leptospira spp. was also observed. In conclusion, BTV, BoHV-1, BVDV and Leptospira spp. are highly seroprevalent and occurred simultaneously in cattle from family farms in Minas Gerais, indicating the need for the implementation of control measures to avoid economic losses related to these diseases.(AU)

Os objetivos do presente estudo foram: i) estimar a soroprevalência de Bluetongue virus (BTV), bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), Brucella abortus e Leptospira spp. em bovinos da agricultura familiar no Norte de Minas Gerais, Brasil; ii) determinar a intercorrência e associação entre esses patógenos; iii) e avaliar os possíveis fatores associados aos rebanhos e animais soropositivos. Para isso, 476 vacas de 46 fazendas foram amostradas e avaliadas sorologicamente. A soroprevalência de rebanhos e animais foi, respectivamente, para BTV de 100% e 52.0%, para BoHV-1 de 95.7% e 48.6%, para BVDV de 78.3% e 46.1%, para Leptospira spp. de 76.1% e 29.1% e para B. abortus de 0% para ambos rebanhos e bovinos. Mais de 65% dos rebanhos foram simultaneamente soropositivos para BTV, BoHV-1, BVDV e Leptospira spp. A soropositividade para BoHV-1, Leptospira spp. sorovar Autumnalis e sorovar Hardjoprajitno foram fatores associados com aborto, enquanto soropositividade para BVDV foi fator associado com BoHV-1. Além disso, associação entre a soropositividade para BVDV, BoHV-1 e Leptospira spp. foi observada. Em conclusão, BTV, BVDV, BoHV-1 e Leptospira spp. são altamente soroprevalentes e ocorrem simultaneamente em bovinos da agricultura familiar de Minas Gerais, indicando a necessidade da implementação de medidas de controle para evitar perdas econômicas relacionadas a essas doenças.(AU)