Search Results (64)

Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) is a primary etiological agent of acute gastroenteritis in domestic dogs. Although molecular and serological evidence have confirmed its circulation in wild carnivores, the clinical impact of spillover events in wildlife hosts remain insufficiently characterized. In this study, we investigated CPV-2 from wild coyote pups (Canis latrans) presenting with clinical gastroenteritis in northeastern Mexico. CPV-2 was successfully isolated in MDCK cells, and whole-genome sequencing was performed on two isolates, B55 and B56 (GenBank accession numbers PQ065988 and PQ065989). A comprehensive analysis identified 23 nucleotide mutations, eight of which were missense mutations resulting in amino acid substitutions in structural (VP) and non-structural (NS) proteins. Notably, amino acid substitution L354V was identified in the NS1 helicase domain of both isolates, a region critical for viral replication. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that isolates B55 and B56 cluster within the CPV-2c subtype, showing high genetic relatedness to circulating Mexican and US canine strains which strongly suggests recent cross-species transmission between domestic dogs and wild coyotes. This study provides the first complete genomic characterization of a clinical CPV-2 infection in wild coyotes in Mexico, underscoring the immediate risk of CPV-2c transmission at the domestic animal–wildlife interface. Full article

The wolf (Canis lupus) is an apex predator with high mobility and trophic plasticity, serving as a valuable indicator of helminth transmission at the wildlife–livestock interface. Given the ecological overlap between wolves and both wild and domestic ungulates in Romania, we aimed to identify and molecularly characterize cestodes from wolves’ small intestines. Between November 2022 and June 2025, small intestines from nine wolves were collected across four Romanian counties, frozen, and examined using classical parasitology (macroscopic and microscopic) and molecular methods (PCR amplification and Sanger sequencing of mitochondrial cox1, nad1, and 12S rRNA fragments). Taeniids were detected in three (33.33%) out of nine tested individuals. Genetic analyses confirmed the presence of Taenia krabbei and Taenia hydatigena—species not previously reported in wolves from Romania. This study provides the first molecular evidence of T. krabbei and T. hydatigena in wolves from Romania, and likely Eastern Europe, indicating active transmission and underscoring the need for broader surveillance of hosts to clarify their ecology and regional dynamics within a One Health context. Full article

The ecological role and overlap with urban environments make wild carnivores useful epidemiological sentinels for several pathogens. The present study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and Encephalitozoon cuniculi in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from Central and Southern Italy. Sera from 120 foxes were analyzed using IFAT with a 1:20 cut-off value. Overall, seropositivity was highest for T. gondii (68.5%), followed by E. cuniculi (15.0%) and N. caninum (3.3%). Multivariable logistic regression models with stepwise selection identified age class and location as significant predictor factors for T. gondii exposure, with adults and red foxes from Southern Italy showing higher levels of prevalence. No significant associations with epidemiological risk factors were detected for E. cuniculi or N. caninum. Co-infections were detected in 15% of red foxes with a statistically significant positive association between T. gondii and E. cuniculi. These findings highlight that red foxes, being scavengers, are particularly exposed to food-borne pathogens, especially to T. gondii, and prove once again that they are reliable epidemiological sentinels for parasites that circulate at the wild–domestic interface. Full article

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly fatal viral disease of domestic pigs and wild boar that continues to threaten pig production across Europe. Genotype II African swine fever virus (ASFV) has been present in Serbia since 2019 and was first confirmed in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2023, yet recent genetic data from the region have been lacking. This study aimed to update the genetic characterization of ASFV strains circulating in Serbia between 2023 and 2025 and to provide the first sequence data from Bosnia and Herzegovina. A total of 110 isolates were analyzed by partial sequencing of seven genomic regions recommended by the European Union Reference Laboratory. Good-quality sequences were obtained for at least two loci per isolate. All isolates belonged to genotype II and were classified as CVR variant I, IGR-II, O174L-I, MGF I, K145R-I, and ECO2-II, corresponding to cluster 19. No novel genetic changes were identified in the sequenced fragments. These findings indicate the stable, endemic circulation of cluster 19 in both domestic pigs and wild boar, maintained through ecological and human-mediated transmission at the wildlife–livestock interface. The detection of cluster 19 in Bosnia and Herzegovina underscores transboundary spread and highlights the need for continued molecular surveillance and regional cooperation. Full article

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses have recently had a substantial impact on global poultry production and public health. In Egypt, clade 2.3.4.4b HPAI H5N1 viruses were first isolated from wild birds in 2021 and then became dominant in domestic poultry. In this study, we aimed to genetically characterize the H5N1 viruses isolated in Egypt during 2021–2023 and examine the pathogenicity and transmissibility of two H5N1 strains isolated from wild and domestic poultry in chickens. We collected 7588 specimens from live bird markets including poultry, wild birds, and environmental samples. Influenza A viruses were detected in 20.94% (484/2311) of tested samples, and 17 isolates were identified as H5N1 through complete genome sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all H5N1 viruses were closely related to Eurasian viruses and classified into three distinct genetic groups, suggesting multiple introductions likely linked to migratory birds. Experimental infections of chickens with two H5N1 isolates, A/Pintail/Egypt/RA19853OP/2021 and A/duck/Egypt/BA20361C/2022, showed efficient replication, systemic infection, and transmission by direct contact. These findings underscore the need for continued surveillance of H5N1 at the poultry-wild bird interface to identify circulating strains, evaluate their biological characteristics, and assess their zoonotic potential. Full article

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease with significant impacts on domestic pigs and wild boar populations. This study applies GIS-based spatial analysis to monitor ASF outbreaks in northwestern Italy (Piedmont and Liguria) and identify areas at increased risk. Key factors considered include pig density, wildlife proximity, and environmental conditions. The spatial analysis revealed that central–western municipalities exhibited higher risk due to favorable environmental conditions and dense wild boar populations, while peripheral areas showed a temporal delay in outbreak emergence. Mapping the spreading rate and habitat interfaces allowed the development of a spatial risk model, which was further analyzed using geostatistical techniques to understand disease dynamics. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of geospatial modeling in identifying high-risk zones, characterizing spatio-temporal patterns, and supporting targeted prevention and surveillance strategies. These findings provide actionable insights for ASF management and resource allocation. Future studies may refine these models by integrating additional datasets and environmental variables, enhancing predictive capacity and applicability across different regions. Full article

AlUla, a unique conservation and tourism hub in Saudi Arabia, is undergoing extensive biodiversity restoration efforts, including the reintroduction of threatened wild species. However, interactions among wildlife, domestic, and synanthropic animals in these reserves raise significant concerns about disease transmission to reintroduced species. This study aimed to assess disease risks at the domestic–synanthropic–wildlife interface and identify infectious diseases posing the greatest threat to reintroduced species. A multi-phased prioritization system was developed to guide monitoring based on transmissibility to protected wildlife, susceptibility of reintroduced species, reservoir hosts, vector-borne potential, likelihood of occurrence, and disease severity. A comprehensive expert review identified 61 diseases important to the reintroduced wildlife. From this, 11 priority pathogens were selected for monitoring. A total of 7760 samples were collected from 1367 domestic and synanthropic animals and were analyzed using Real-Time PCR and/or ELISA. All priority pathogens, or prior exposure to these pathogens, were detected. Disease presence was affected by factors such as species, location, health status, and grazing habits. Taken together, these findings underscore the need for robust preventive measures to mitigate disease transmission risks and ensure the sustainability of AlUla’s conservation initiatives. This study also offers a model approach to support reintroduction programs and guide future conservation efforts. Full article

Emerging infectious diseases, particularly those of zoonotic origin, often originating from wildlife reservoirs represent a growing threat to global health. Human-driven environmental changes such as habitat fragmentation, climate change, and urban expansion have intensified interactions at the wildlife–domestic animal–human interface, facilitating cross-species viral transmission. Despite their epidemiological importance, systematic virological surveillance of wildlife remains challenging. In this study, we employed shotgun metagenomic sequencing to characterize the virome of wild animals rescued in the Pisa area and hospitalized at the “Mario Modenato” Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) at the University of Pisa. Fecal samples collected from injured wildlife admitted between September 2020 and September 2021 were analyzed to detect both known and novel viruses. This approach builds upon previous PCR-based investigations of the same biological material, enabling a more comprehensive assessment of viral diversity. We adopted a shotgun approach for analyzing six sample pools—four were positive for at least one viral target—identifying diverse viral families, including Astroviridae, Circoviridae, Picornaviridae, Adenoviridae, and Retroviridae, in asymptomatic wildlife admitted to a veterinary hospital, highlighting their potential role as reservoirs. Our findings provide insights into the influence of environmental and anthropogenic factors on wildlife virome composition and highlight the value of hospital-based sampling strategies for urban viral surveillance. The results contribute to the development of integrated monitoring and prevention strategies within a One Health framework. Full article

Wild carnivores can harbor pathogens affecting wildlife conservation and domestic animal health. This study surveyed major viral pathogens in free-ranging wolves, red foxes, stone martens, and Eurasian badgers in Northwestern Italy. Duodenal samples from 140 carcasses were screened by consensus PCR for members of the species Protoparvovirus carnivoran1 and for canine adenoviruses (CAdV-1/2). PCR-positive samples underwent sequence-independent amplification and Oxford Nanopore sequencing. Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) DNAs were identified in three wolves (6.4%) and one badger (4.3%), whereas CAdV-1 was detected in one red fox (1.8%). Nanopore sequencing yielded near-complete genomes of two CPV-new 2a, one CPV-2c, and one FPV strains, along with partial CAdV-1 sequences. Furthermore, the complete genome of a canine circovirus (CaCV) strain in co-infection with a CPV-2c-positive wolf and partial sequences of a canine kobuvirus (CaKoV) strain were also obtained. Phylogenetic analysis placed these viruses within known European lineages and linked them to domestic and wild hosts. These findings revealed the circulation of multiple viral pathogens among wild carnivores, reflecting ongoing cross-species spillover. Continuing molecular surveillance at the wildlife–domestic interface is recommended. Full article

Q Fever is a zoonosis caused by Coxiella burnetii that affects domestic and wild ruminants, leading to reproductive disorders. In humans, the disease can manifest with acute and chronic clinical manifestations. Veterinarians, as healthcare professionals in close contact with animals, serve both as the first line of defence in preventing infection at the animal–human interface and as an important sentinel group for the rapid detection of outbreaks. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, perception, and attitude of veterinarians in Southern Spain regarding Q Fever. To this end, an online survey was designed, validated, and conducted among veterinarians in the province of Malaga, with a final participation of 97 individuals, predominantly from the private sector (clinic, livestock, agri-food, etc.). The data obtained reflected a general lack of knowledge about the disease, particularly concerning its epidemiology and infection prevention. Regarding perception and attitude, a significant percentage of respondents stated they did not use protective equipment when handling susceptible animals and only sought information about the disease in response to outbreak declarations. The study emphasised the significance of promoting training in zoonotic diseases during and after graduation, the relevance of official channels in occupational risk prevention, and the utility of epidemiological surveys as a tool to identify and address potential gaps in knowledge related to this disease. Full article

Porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) has been detected in wild boars across many countries in Europe, Asia, and South America. However, data regarding the presence of porcine circoviruses in wild boars and ticks remain limited. In this study, we investigated the presence and genetic characteristics of PCV3 in wild boars and parasitizing ticks in Jiangsu, China. Samples, including whole blood, serum, tissues, feces, and oral fluids from wild boars, as well as ticks collected from 47 wild boars, were obtained between March 2021 and November 2022. PCR results indicated that 34.0% (16/47) of wild boars tested positive for PCV3, while ELISA detected 41.9% (18/43) seropositivity. RT-qPCR results showed that 7.2% (6/83) were positive for PCV3 in 83 analyzed tick samples, with all positive samples identified as Amblyomma testudinarium. The PCV3 genome obtained from wild boars was classified as PCV3a and was closely related to the strain identified in domestic pigs in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. Collectively, these findings confirm the presence of PCV3 in wild boars in Jiangsu and suggest a possible link of PCV3 infection among domestic pigs, wild boars, and ticks, providing new insights into the transmission risk of PCV3 at wildlife–livestock–human interfaces and highlighting the genetic homology between strains from wild and domestic pigs. Full article

Canine morbillivirus (CDV), the cause of canine distemper, is a pathogen affecting many hosts. While modified live virus (MLV) vaccines are crucial for controlling the disease in dogs, cases of vaccine-related infections have been found in both domestic and wild animals. Specifically, the America-1 and Rockborn-like vaccine genotypes are concerning due to their spread and ability to transmit between different species. This study conducted a review and analysis of molecular detections of these strains in various carnivores (domestic, captive, synanthropic, and wild species). This study used a conceptual model considering host ecology and the domestic–wild interface to evaluate plausible transmission connections over time using Linear Directional Mean (LDM) and Weighted Mean Centre (WMC) methods. Statistical analyses examined the relationship between how likely a strain is to spread and factors like host type and vaccination status. The findings showed that the America-1 genotype spread in a more organised way, with domestic dogs being the main source and recipient, bridging different environments. Synanthropic mesocarnivores also played this same role, with less intensity. America-1 was most concentrated in the North Atlantic and Western Europe. In contrast, the Rockborn-like strain showed a more unpredictable and restricted spread, residual circulation from past use rather than ongoing spread. Species involved in vaccine-related infections often share characteristics like generalist behaviour, social living, and a preference for areas where domestic animals and wildlife interact. We did not find a general link between a host vaccination status and the likelihood of the strain spreading. The study emphasised the ongoing risk of vaccine-derived strains moving from domestic and synanthropic animals to vulnerable wild species, supporting the need for improved vaccination approaches. Mapping these plausible transmission routes can serve as a basis for targeted surveillance, not only of vaccine-derived strains, but of any other circulating genotype. Full article

Background: Zoonotic influenza viruses pose a significant and evolving public health threat. In response to the recent rise in H5N1 cross-species transmission, the World Health Organization (WHO) R&D Blueprint for Epidemics consultations have prioritized strengthening surveillance, candidate vaccines, diagnostics, and pandemic preparedness. Serological surveillance plays a pivotal role by providing insights into the prevalence and transmission dynamics of influenza viruses. Objective: This scoping review aimed to map the global research landscape on serological surveillance of zoonotic influenza in animals and exposed humans between 2017, the date of the last WHO public health research agenda for influenza review, and 2024, as well as to identify methodological advancements. Methods: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we searched PubMed for English-language peer-reviewed articles published between January 2017 and March 2024. Studies were included if they reported serological surveillance in wild or domestic animals or occupationally exposed human populations, or novel methodologies and their technical limitations and implementation challenges. Results: Out of 7490 screened records, 90 studies from 33 countries, covering 25 animal species, were included. Seroprevalence studies were in domestic poultry and swine. Surveillance in companion animals, wild mammals, and at the human–animal interface was limited. Emerging serological methods included multiplex and nanobody-based assays, though implementation barriers remain. Conclusions: The review is limited by its restriction to one database and English-language articles, lack of quality appraisal, and significant heterogeneity among the included studies. Serological surveillance is a critical but underutilized tool in zoonotic influenza monitoring. Greater integration of serological surveillance into One Health frameworks, especially in high-risk regions and populations, is needed to support early detection and pandemic preparedness. Full article

Background/Objectives: Increasing levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) have recently been observed at the human–domestic animal–wildlife interface. Wild birds have been identified as carriers of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and serve as excellent biomarkers for epidemiological studies. This study assessed the current AMR presence in Eastern Spain’s commensal Escherichia coli isolated from free-ranging Bonelli’s eagles (Aquila fasciata). Methods: Nestlings and their nests were intensively sampled between 2022 and 2024 to determine their AMR profile and characterize E. coli. AMR testing was conducted using the broth microdilution method, following the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing guidelines. Additionally, the presence of eaeA (intimin gene) and stx-1 and stx-2 (shiga toxins) was analyzed by real-time PCR to classify E. coli strains into enteropathogenic (EPEC) and Shiga-toxigenic (STEC) pathotypes. Results: Of all E. coli isolates, 41.7% were resistant to at least one antimicrobial, and 30% were multidrug-resistant. Only two strains were classified as EPEC and none as STEC. The highest resistance rates were observed for amoxicillin and tetracycline (19.6% each). Alarmingly, resistance to colistin and meropenem, last-resort antibiotics in human medicine, was also detected. Conclusions: Although the mechanisms of resistance acquisition remain unclear, transmission is likely to occur through the food chain, with synanthropic prey acting as intermediary vectors. These results highlight the role of Bonelli’s eagles as essential sentinels of environmental AMR dissemination, even in remote ecosystems. Strengthening One Health-based surveillance is necessary to address AMR’s ecological and public health risks in wildlife. Full article

The Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus (HPAIV) H5 clade 2.3.4.4b has caused severe outbreaks in domestic and wild birds worldwide since its emergence in 2014, and especially since 2020, with outbreaks in Europe and North America. The introduction of the virus into South America was reported for the first time in Colombia in October 2022, followed by outbreaks in other South American countries affecting poultry, wild birds, mammals, and humans. In this study, a phylogenetic and mutation analysis of the hemagglutinin (HA) gene of HPAIV H5N1 2.3.4.4b viruses isolated in South America was performed to analyze its evolution and its transmission and zoonotic potential. The analysis shows an increase in the viral effective population size between April and June 2022, which was followed by multiple outbreaks of HPAIV H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b in South America. Moreover, the virus variants evolved from a recent common ancestor estimated to have existed in June 2017. The mean rate of evolution of the HA gene was 6.95 × 10⁻³ substitutions per site per year, and the sequence analysis of HA identified a mutation (D171N) located at antibody binding sites and viral oligomerization interfaces, with implications for immune response evasion and new host species infection. Additionally, viral strains from South America share the substitutions L104M, T156A, P181S, and V210A, compared to the vaccine strain A/chicken/Ghana/AVL763/2021. Understanding the dynamics of viral evolution and transmission is essential for effective prevention strategies to mitigate future outbreaks. Full article