Serological surveillance and factors associated with influenza A virus in backyard pigs in Southern Brazil

Backyard pig populations are not monitored for influenza A virus (IAV) in Brazil and there are limited data about seroprevalence and risk factors in these populations. Our goal was to assess possible factors associated with IAV seroprevalence in backyard pig populations using an indirect ELISA protocol based on a recombinant nucleoprotein. Following the IAV screening using NP‐ELISA, subtype‐specific serology based on hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay of the ELISA‐positive pigs was conducted. The survey comprised a total of 1,667 sera samples collected in 2012 and 2014 in 479 holdings and the estimated seroprevalence was 5.3% (3.84%–7.33%) and 2.3% (1.34%–3.71%) in the respective years. In both years, H1N1pdm09 was the most prevalent subtype. The multivariable analysis showed main factors such as “age,” “sex,” “number of suckling pigs” and “neighbours raising pigs” that presented the greatest effect on IAV seroprevalence in these pig populations. These factors may be associated with the low biosecurity measures and management of backyard holdings. In addition, the low IAV seroprevalences found in these backyard pig populations could be related to a low number of animals in each pig holding and low animal movement/replacement that do not favour IAV transmission dynamics. This low frequency of H1N1pdm09 seropositive pigs could also be due to sporadic human‐to‐pig transmission of what is now a human seasonal influenza A virus; however, these factors should be explored in future studies. Herein, these results highlight the importance of IAV continued surveillance in backyard pig holdings, since it is poorly known which IAVs are circulating in these populations and the risk they could pose to public health and virus transmission to commercial farms.     

猪流感抗体间接ELISA检测方法的建立

猪流感病毒A／Swine／Fujian／668／2001（H3N2）株感染的鸡胚尿囊液，经差速离心后，再经蔗糖密度梯度离心，提纯、纯化的猪流感病毒经NP-40处理并反复冻融，作为猪流感间接ELISA抗原，确立了间接ELISA检测方法。对29份HI试验猪流感为阴性的血清进行了检测，经统计学分析，确定间接ELISA判定标准，被检血清OD490nm值≥0．20判定为阳性。该方法对猪瘟等11种猪疫病阳性血清无交叉反应，批内和批间重复试验的吸收变异系数分别在3．34％～8．12％和6．2％～9．04％之间。与HI的符合率达到92．8％，经卡方检验（P〈0．01）比HI试验敏感。为猪流感抗体检测提供了快速、准确、简便的方法。     

Genetic diversity of influenza A viruses circulating in pigs between winter and summer in a Minnesota live animal market

There has been little surveillance of influenza A viruses (IAVs) circulating in swine at live animal markets, particularly in the United States. To address this gap, we conducted active surveillance of IAVs in pigs, the air, and the environment during a summer and winter season in a live animal market in St. Paul, Minnesota, that had been epidemiologically associated with swine‐origin influenza cases in humans previously. High rates of IAV were detected by PCR in swine lungs and oral fluids during both summer and winter seasons. Rates of IAV detection by PCR in the air were similar during summer and winter, although rates of successful virus isolation in the air were lower during summer than in winter (26% and 67%, respectively). H3N2 was the most prevalent subtype in both seasons, followed by H1N2. Genetically diverse viruses with multiple gene constellations were isolated from both winter and summer, with a total of 19 distinct genotypes identified. Comparative phylogenetic analysis of all eight segments of 40 virus isolates from summer and 122 isolates from winter revealed that the summer and winter isolates were genetically distinct, indicating IAVs are not maintained in the market, but rather are re‐introduced, likely from commercial swine. These findings highlight the extent of IAV genetic diversity circulating in swine in live animal markets, even during summer months, and the ongoing risk to humans.     

Seroprevalence of low pathogenic avian influenza (H9N2) and associated risk factors in the Gyeonggi-do of Korea during 2005-2006

Between November 2005 and March 2006, a total of 253 poultry flocks in the Gyeonggi-do of Korea were examined for seroprevalence against avian influenza (AI) using a hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test and an agar gel precipitation test. No low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) virus was isolated from 47 seropositive flocks that lacked clinical signs during sampling. The unadjusted percentage of seroprevalence rates of layer and broiler flocks were not significantly different, i.e., 26% (25/96) and 23% (22/97), respectively. The HI titer of the layers (mean = 89) was higher than the broilers (mean = 36; p < 0.001). A cross-sectional study was conducted for the seroprevalence of LPAI in the layers. Of 7 risk factors, farms employing one or more workers had a higher seropositive prevalence as compared to farms without hired employees (adjusted prevalence OR = 11.5, p = 0.031). Layer flocks older than 400 d had higher seropositivity than flocks younger than 300 d (OR = 4.9, p = 0.017). The farmers recognized at least one of the clinical signs in seropositive flocks, such as decreased egg production, respiratory syndromes, and increased mortality (OR = 2.3, p = 0.082). In a matched case-control study, 20 pairs of case and control flocks matched for type of flock, hired employees, age, and flock size were compared. Frequent cleansing with disinfectants was associated with a decreased risk of seropositivity (OR = 0.2, p = 0.022). Although there was a low statistical association, using a foot disinfectant when entering the building led to a decreased rate of seropositivity (OR = 0.3, p = 0.105).     

Seroprevalence and risk factors for bovine brucellosis in Jordan

We investigated the seroprevalence and risk factors for Brucella seropositivity in cattle in Jordan. The sera from 671 cows were randomly collected from 62 herds. The antibodies against Brucella were detected using a Rose Bengal plate test and indirect ELISA. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on the cattle herds'' health and management. A multiple logistic regression model was constructed to identify the risk factors for Brucella seropositivity. The true prevalence of antibodies against Brucella in individual cows and cattle herds was 6.5% and 23%, respectively. The seroprevalence of brucellosis in cows older than 4 years of age was significantly higher than that in the younger cows. The seroprevalence of brucellosis in cows located in the Mafraq, Zarqa and Ma''an governorates was significantly higher than that of the other studied governorates. The multiple logistic regression model revealed that a larger herd size (odd ratio = 1.3; 95% CI: 1.1, 2.6) and mixed farming (OR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.7, 3.7) were risk factors for cattle seropositivity to Brucella antigens. On the other hand, the use of disinfectants (OR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.1, 2.1) and the presence of adequate veterinary services (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2, 3.2) were identified as protective factors.     

中国猪源HSN1和H9N2亚型流感病毒的分离鉴定

猪是禽流感病毒"禽-猪-人"传播链中重要的中间宿主,了解猪流感的疫情动态将为动物流感及人流感的疾病预测及防制提供重要依据.1999～2001年间进行的血清学和病毒学监测发现我国猪群存在大范围的H1和H3亚型猪流感感染(李海燕等,2002).2002～2003年,我们进一步对来自全国14个省市的1936份血清进行了H9亚型猪流感的检测,同时在广东、福建等省进行了H5亚型猪流感的检测.2002年辽宁、广东、山东及重庆猪血清中出现H9亚型流感抗体,阳性率分别为7.3%、6.8%、5.1%和1.6%.2003年采集的猪血清H9亚型流感抗体均为阴性,同时发现广东、福建两省2003年出现H5亚型流感阳性猪群,阳性率分别为4.7%和8.2%.从2001～2003年收集和送检的样品中分离鉴定了6株H9N2亚型和2株H5N1亚型猪流感病毒,部分序列分析发现H9和H5亚型猪流感病毒均与我国分离的禽流感病毒高度同源.本研究进一步确证了我国猪群中存在H9N2亚型流感病毒,并且首次发现我国猪群已出现H5N1亚型流感病毒,为人类流感及动物流感的防制敲响了警钟.对这两个亚型流感病毒所具有的公共卫生和兽医公共卫生危害性应予以高度重视.     

Genetic analysis of human and swine influenza A viruses isolated in Northern Italy during 2010–2015

Influenza A virus (IAV) infection in swine plays an important role in the ecology of influenza viruses. The emergence of new IAVs comes through different mechanisms, with the genetic reassortment of genes between influenza viruses, also originating from different species, being common. We performed a genetic analysis on 179 IAV isolates from humans (n. 75) and pigs (n. 104) collected in Northern Italy between 2010 and 2015, to monitor the genetic exchange between human and swine IAVs. No cases of human infection with swine strains were noticed, but direct infections of swine with H1N1pdm09 strains were detected. Moreover, we pointed out a continuous circulation of H1N1pdm09 strains in swine populations evidenced by the introduction of internal genes of this subtype. These events contribute to generating new viral variants—possibly endowed with pandemic potential—and emphasize the importance of continuous surveillance at both animal and human level.     

Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of important pig viral diseases in Bhutan

A cross-sectional serological study was conducted in Bhutan between October 2011 and February 2012 to determine the prevalence of antibodies to classical swine fever virus (CSFV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), swine influenza virus (SIV) subtype H1N1 and Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV). Furthermore, risk factors for the seropositive status were investigated.     

流感病毒种内与种间传播的影响因素

A型流感病毒具有相对的宿主特异性,病毒在种内和种间的传播案例经常发生.对于某一特定宿主,病毒的感染受到诸多因素影响,包括病毒、宿主和环境因素等.本文对影响流感病毒种内和种间传播的因素进行概述.     

Management and environmental factors involved in equine influenza outbreaks in Ireland 2007-2010

Reasons for performing study: Outbreaks of equine influenza (EI) in endemic populations continue to cause economic loss despite widespread vaccination. Hypothesis: To identify the key management and environmental factors that determine the risk of horses contracting EI in an endemic country and to identify control strategies. Methods: Real time‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), virus isolation and haemagglutination inhibition were carried out on nasopharyngeal swabs and clotted blood samples collected from horses and ponies showing signs of respiratory disease. On premises where a diagnosis of EI was confirmed, the attending veterinary surgeon was asked to participate in an epidemiological investigation. Results: Between June 2007 and January 2010, EI outbreaks were diagnosed on 28 premises located in 13 of the 32 counties of Ireland. Veterinary advice was sought on average more than 5 days after the first clinical signs were observed. The majority of diagnoses were made by RT‐PCR. Data from 404 horses on 16 premises were used in the epidemiological analysis. In 15 premises, EI was identified following movement of horses. Housing type, teaser stallions or fomites/personnel contributed to virus spread. Vaccination status, number of years vaccination, time since last vaccination and age influenced disease expression. Isolation and vaccination were effective control measures on the premises where they were implemented. Conclusions: Preventative measures include: isolation, clinical monitoring, serological testing and vaccination of new arrivals, booster vaccination of horses at 6 monthly intervals, maintenance of effective boundaries between equine premises and avoidance of stabling in single air spaces. Control measures include: prompt isolation of suspected cases, rapid diagnosis by RT‐PCR, booster vaccination of cohorts and implementation of biosecurity measures to avoid transmission by fomites and personnel. Potential relevance: Implementation of these preventative and control measures should reduce the economic losses associated with outbreaks of EI.     

Seroprevalence and risk factors of swine influenza in Spain

Swine influenza is caused by type A influenza virus. Pigs can be infected by both avian and human influenza viruses; therefore, the influenza virus infection in pigs is considered an important public health concern. The aims of present study were to asses the seroprevalence of swine influenza subtypes in Spain and explore the risk factors associated with the spread of those infections. Serum samples from 2151 pigs of 98 randomly selected farms were analyzed by an indirect ELISA for detection of antibodies against nucleoprotein A of influenza viruses and by the hemagglutination inhibition (HI) using H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2 swine influenza viruses (SIV) as antigens. Data gathered in questionnaires filled for each farm were used to explore risk factors associated with swine influenza. For that purpose, data were analyzed using the generalized estimating equations method and, in parallel by means of a logistic regression. By ELISA, 92 farms (93.9%; CI(95%): 89.1-98.7%) had at least one positive animal and, in total, 1340/2151 animals (62.3%; CI(95%): 60.2-64.3%) were seropositive. A total of 1622 animals (75.4%; CI(95%): 73.6-77.2%) were positive in at least one of the HI tests. Of the 98 farms, 91 (92.9%; CI(95%): 87.7-98.1%) had H1N1 seropositive animals; 63 (64.3%; CI(95%): 54.6-73.9%) had H1N2 seropositive pigs and 91 (92.9%; CI(95%): 87.7-98.1%) were positive to H3N2. Mixed infections were detected in 88 farms (89.8; CI(95%): 83.7-95.9%). Three risk factors were associated with seroprevalences of SIV: increased replacement rates in pregnancy units and, for fatteners, existence of open partitions between pens and uncontrolled entrance to the farm.     

Seroprevalence and risk factors for C. burentii infection in camels in Egypt

Q fever caused by Coxiella burentii, gram negative obligate intracellular bacterium. The disease has been reported in wide range of animals especially ruminants. The available data about the prevalence of Q fever in camels in Egypt are limited. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of C. burnetii among camels and identify the risk factors associated with infection. A total 315 serum samples were collected from three governorates in Egypt during 2018 and examined by an indirect Enzyme linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The obtained results were subsequent analyzed by chi-square and logistic regression. Generally, the seroprevalence of C. burnetii among camels was 22 %. The results revealed that the seroprevalence of C. burnetii increased in aged female camels in comparison with young one and was higher also in female with history of abortion (OR = 4.6, 95%CI: 2.46–8.76). The infection was significantly increased during autumn season (OR = 9.3, 95%CI: 4.23–20.5). Besides, camels in contact with small ruminants showed high level of infection (OR = 1.12, 95%CI: 0.65–1.93) or camel with heavy tick infestation (OR = 1.08, 95%CI: 0.60–1.92). Our report confirms that the seroprevalence of C. burnetii among camels in Egypt and appropriate control measures should be taken to reduce the transmission of infection to other animal species or human.     

广东省部分地区规模化猪场猪流感病毒感染的血清学调查与分析

为了解广东省规模化猪场猪流感病毒(SIV)感染情况,本研究采用ELISA方法和血凝抑制试验(HI),对2011年～2012年采集的1 050份血清样品进行SIV血清学检测.两种检测方法结果显示1 050份血清样品中SIV抗体阳性率分别为50.4％(ELISA)和50.2％(HI).其中珠三角地区和粤东地区的感染率高于粤西地区.SIV亚型调查结果显示该地区流行的SIV主要为H1和H3亚型,抗体阳性率分别为39.2％和18.2％(ELISA).部分猪场存在H9亚型SIV抗体.部分猪群中同时存在H1和H3两种亚型SIV抗体,表明猪群中存在不同亚型SIV混合感染.本研究为广东省猪流感的预防提供参考依据.     

Seroprevalence and risk factors of caprine toxoplasmosis in Minas Gerais, Brazil

The objective of this work was to carry out a study on caprine toxoplasmosis in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. To determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in goats in Minas Gerais, 767 sera from goats were tested by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and IFAT (indirect fluorescence antibody test). The prevalence of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii was 43.0% and 46.0% by ELISA and IFAT, respectively. It was observed that 26.8% of the goats show low-avidity IgG to T. gondii. These results suggest the presence of animals in recent phase of toxoplasmosis in Minas Gerais. The risk factors for toxoplasmosis in goats were: age over 36 months (OR = 1.21; IC 95% 1.02–1.44), use of pen (OR = 1.83; IC 95%1.01–3.31) and pure breed animals (OR = 2.49; IC 95% 1.11–5.59).     

H3亚型猪流感病毒抗原捕捉ELISA检测方法的建立

为快速检测H3亚型猪流感病毒(SIV),本研究将一株H3N2亚型SIV特异性单克隆抗体(MAb)进行纯化,建立了以多抗作为包被抗体,MAb作为检测抗体的H3亚型SIV抗原捕捉ELISA (AC-ELISA)方法.并对该方法的特异性和敏感性进行了分析,其敏感性是血凝试验的4倍,与猪繁殖与综合征病毒、猪圆环病毒、猪瘟病毒、猪细小病毒以及H1、H5、H9亚型SIV均没有明显的交叉性反应,批间和批内重复试验变异系数均小于10％.应用建立的AC-ELISA方法对84份H3亚型SIV实验室感染样品进行检测与鸡胚滴定病毒结果符合率达90.47％.本实验建立的AC-ELISA方法具有良好的特异性和敏感性,可用于H3亚型SIV的临床检测.     

The risk factors for avian influenza on poultry farms: A meta-analysis

Background

Avian influenza is a severe threat both to humans and poultry, but so far, no systematic review on the identification and evaluation of the risk factors of avian influenza infection has been published. The objective of this meta-analysis is to provide evidence for decision-making and further research on AI prevention through identifying the risk factors associated with AI infection on poultry farms.

Methods

The results from 15 selected studies on risk factors for AI infections on poultry farms were analyzed quantitatively by meta-analysis.

Results

Open water source (OR = 2.89), infections on nearby farms (OR = 4.54), other livestock (OR = 1.90) and disinfection of farm (OR = 0.54) have significant association with AI infection on poultry farms. The subgroup analysis results indicate that there exist different risk factors for AI infections in different types of farms.

Conclusions

The main risk factors for AI infection in poultry farms are environmental conditions (open water source, infections on nearby farms), keeping other livestock on the same farm and no disinfection of the farm.     

Tulathromycin enhances humoral but not cellular immune response in pigs vaccinated against swine influenza

The effect of a standard, single dose therapy with tulathromycin was investigated on the postvaccinal humoral and cellular immune response in pigs vaccinated against swine influenza. Forty‐five pigs, divided into 3 groups, were used (control not vaccinated (C, n = 15), control vaccinated (CV, n = 15), and experimentally received tulathromycin (TUL, n = 15)). For vaccination of pigs, an inactivated, commercial vaccine was used. Pigs from TUL group received single dose of tulathromycin intramuscularly, at the recommended dose (2.5 mg/kg body weight). Pigs from TUL and CV groups were vaccinated at 8 and 10 weeks of age. The specific humoral and cellular immune response against swine influenza virus (SIV) was evaluated. The results of present study showed that humoral postvaccinal response after vaccination against SIV can be modulated by treatment with tulathromycin. In pigs from TUL group, the significantly higher titers of anti‐SIV‐specific antibodies were observed 4 and 6 weeks after booster dose of vaccine. Simultaneously, T‐cell‐mediated immune response against SIV was not affected by tulathromycin. Our recent study confirmed the importance of defining the modulatory activity of tulathromycin because of its influence on the immune response to vaccines. Since the antibodies against hemagglutinin are crucial for the protection against SIV, the present observations should prompt further studies on the practical significance of recent results in terms of clinical implications (postvaccinal protection) in the field conditions.