Diagnostics of Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens

A special issue of Pathogens (ISSN 2076-0817). This special issue belongs to the section "Emerging Pathogens".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 28 February 2025 | Viewed by 7446

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
Interests: development and validation of diagnostic tools for the detection of animal and human pathogens; point-of-care testing; host–pathogen interactions

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

From the Black Death epidemic in the 14th century to the most recent COVID-19 and the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza (HPAI), emerging and re-emerging pathogens have continued to intrigue the scientific community for centuries. It is interesting to note that more than 70% of emerging/re-emerging infectious diseases are of zoonotic nature. Zoonoses and reverse zoonoses play a significant role in the transmission of many diseases between humans and animals. Several factors, including changes in human behavior, habitat and environment, have accelerated the emergence and re-emergence of pathogens in recent decades. In addition to SARS-CoV-2 and HPAI, Monkeypox, Nipah, Hendra and other viruses, multidrug-resistant bacteria, invasive fungi and parasites are constantly threatening the health and well-being of animals and humans. Recent advances in diagnostic technologies, methodologies and devices have enhanced the early and rapid detection of pathogens, which helps in controlling the spread of pathogens early on, reducing the impact of diseases and taking preventive measures. Diagnostic tools such as RT-PCR, next-generation sequencing, isothermal platforms, CRISPR, microfluidics-based assays, spectroscopy and enhanced immunoassays are frequently used for the diagnosis of emerging and existing diseases. There is an ever-increasing need for better diagnostics for the early, rapid, accurate and cost-effective diagnosis of emerging and re-emerging diseases.

This Special Issue will focus on the diagnostics of emerging and re-emerging pathogens.

Dr. Binu T. Velayudhan
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • emerging disease
  • zoonoses
  • diagnostics
  • POCT
  • viruses
  • bacteria
  • sequencing
  • immunoassays

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 3757 KiB  
Article
Serological Evidence of Potential Marburg Virus Circulation in Livestock and Dogs in Ghana
by Theophilus Odoom, Sherry Ama Mawuko Johnson, William Tasiame, Meyir Y. Ziekah, Joseph K. Abuh, Benita Anderson, Fenteng Danso, Richard K. Abbiw, Franklin Y. Nuokpem, Emmanuel Allegye-Cudjoe, Charles Lewis and Bonto Faburay
Pathogens 2024, 13(11), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13110917 - 22 Oct 2024
Viewed by 613
Abstract
Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a zoonotic hemorrhagic disease with an estimated case fatality rate of up to 88%. Ghana recorded its first human MVD outbreak in June 2022 and although the outbreak was quickly brought under control, the transmission dynamics of the [...] Read more.
Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a zoonotic hemorrhagic disease with an estimated case fatality rate of up to 88%. Ghana recorded its first human MVD outbreak in June 2022 and although the outbreak was quickly brought under control, the transmission dynamics of the disease remained unclear. We assessed the presence of Marburg virus (MARV) antibodies in livestock and dogs and identified associated risk factors that increased the risk of these animals being exposed to MARV in five regions of Ghana. Sera collected from 3113 livestock and dogs in 2 climatic seasons (rainy and dry seasons) were tested for MARV antibodies using an indirect ELISA test. The samples were further tested using dot blotting to substantiate the presence of antibodies against MARV glycoprotein (GP). Overall, MARV antibodies were detected in 20.6% of the animals. The species-specific prevalence was 28.7% in cattle, 21.8% in sheep, 19.5% in goats, 15.3% in dogs and 11.2% in pigs. The seropositivity was higher in the rainy season [RR 1.5; 95% CI 1.3–1.8] and in older animals [RR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.9–3.4]. The findings underscore the importance of regular surveillance using the one health approach and future studies into the role of livestock and dogs as potential intermediaries in the circulation of MARV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics of Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens)
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11 pages, 1768 KiB  
Article
Large-Scale Serological Survey of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus and Rift Valley Fever Virus in Small Ruminants in Senegal
by Marie Cicille Ba Gahn, Gorgui Diouf, Ndjibouyé Cissé, Mamadou Ciss, Marion Bordier, Mbengué Ndiaye, Mame Thierno Bakhoum, Mamadou Lamine Djiba, Corrie Brown, Bonto Faburay, Assane Gueye Fall and Modou Moustapha Lo
Pathogens 2024, 13(8), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13080689 - 15 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1003
Abstract
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) and Rift Valley fever (RVF) are among the list of emerging zoonotic diseases that require special attention and priority. RVF is one of the six priority diseases selected by the Senegalese government. Repeated epidemic episodes and sporadic cases of [...] Read more.
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) and Rift Valley fever (RVF) are among the list of emerging zoonotic diseases that require special attention and priority. RVF is one of the six priority diseases selected by the Senegalese government. Repeated epidemic episodes and sporadic cases of CCHF and RVF in Senegal motivated this study, involving a national cross-sectional serological survey to assess the distribution of the two diseases in this country throughout the small ruminant population. A total of 2127 sera from small ruminants (goat and sheep) were collected in all regions of Senegal. The overall seroprevalence of CCHF and RVF was 14.1% (IC 95%: 12.5–15.5) and 4.4% (95% CI: 3.5–5.3), respectively. The regions of Saint-Louis (38.4%; 95% CI: 30.4–46.2), Kolda (28.3%; 95% CI: 20.9–35.7), Tambacounda (22.2%; 95% CI: 15.8–28.6) and Kédougou (20.9%; 95% CI: 14.4–27.4) were the most affected areas. The risk factors identified during this study show that the age, species and sex of the animals are key factors in determining exposure to these two viruses. This study confirms the active circulation of CCHF in Senegal and provides important and consistent data that can be used to improve the surveillance strategy of a two-in-one health approach to zoonoses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics of Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens)
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10 pages, 233 KiB  
Communication
Seroprevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Phleboviruses and Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus among Blood Donors in Central Tunisia
by Rym Ayari, Houda Chaouch, Stephen Findlay-Wilson, Wissem Hachfi, Nadia Ben Lasfar, Foued Bellazreg, Stuart Dowall, Neila Hannachi and Amel Letaief
Pathogens 2024, 13(4), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13040348 - 22 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1450
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of six viruses, from two families of the order Bunyavirales, in the general population of central Tunisia. Sera collected from 377 asymptomatic blood donors were serologically assayed for Rift Valley fever virus [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of six viruses, from two families of the order Bunyavirales, in the general population of central Tunisia. Sera collected from 377 asymptomatic blood donors were serologically assayed for Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), and four sandfly-borne phleboviruses: Toscana virus (TOSV), sandfly fever Naples virus (SFNV), sandfly fever Sicilian virus (SFSV), and sandfly fever Cyprus virus (SFCV). Of the 377 subjects enrolled in this study, 17.3% were IgG positive for at least one of the viruses tested. The most frequently detected antibodies were against TOSV (13.3%), followed by SFCV (2.9%), RVFV (1.9%), SFSV (1.3%), and SFNV (1.1%). Only one sample was IgG positive for CCHFV. Dual reactivity was observed in nine cases: SFSV + SFCV in three cases (0.8%) and TOSV + SFNV, TOSV + SFCV, and TOSV + RVFV in two cases (0.5%) each. 15.9% of donors were IgG positive against sandfly-borne phleboviruses. Among the 65 donors IgG positive for phleboviruses, 50.8% were from rural areas compared to 12.3% from urban areas (p < 0.001); 92.3% had animals in their living quarters (p = 0.009); and 70.8% lived in the vicinity of stagnant water (p = 0.062). Seroprevalence was significantly higher among donors living with chronic diseases (p = 0.039). Furthermore, the seroprevalence of phleboviruses was higher in Kairouan, the central governorate, than in the two coastal governorates: Monastir and Sousse, with 33.4%, 24.2%, and 14.9%, respectively. The presence of antibodies in the general population needs further investigation to better assess the extent of these viruses. Only TOSV was known to have an extensive circulation in Tunisia and in North Africa. Continued surveillance and interventions are necessary to detect the emergence of all arboviruses and to prevent further transmission. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics of Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens)

Review

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26 pages, 643 KiB  
Review
Hepatitis E and Potential Public Health Implications from a One-Health Perspective: Special Focus on the European Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
by Fabio Castagna, Giovanna Liguori, Renato Lombardi, Roberto Bava, Anna Costagliola, Antonio Giordano, Massimiliano Quintiliani, Denise Giacomini, Francesco Albergo, Andrea Gigliotti, Carmine Lupia, Carlotta Ceniti, Bruno Tilocca, Ernesto Palma, Paola Roncada and Domenico Britti
Pathogens 2024, 13(10), 840; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13100840 - 27 Sep 2024
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Abstract
The hepatitis E virus (HEV) has become increasingly important in recent years in terms of risk for public health, as the main causative agent of acute viral hepatitis. It is a foodborne disease transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated water or [...] Read more.
The hepatitis E virus (HEV) has become increasingly important in recent years in terms of risk for public health, as the main causative agent of acute viral hepatitis. It is a foodborne disease transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated water or contaminated food. Human-to-human transmission is sporadic and is linked to transfusions or transplants. The main reservoirs of the hepatitis E virus are domestic pigs and wild boars, although, compared to pigs, wild boars represent a lesser source of risk since their population is smaller and the consumption of derived products is more limited. These peculiarities often make the role of the wild boar reservoir in the spread of the disease underestimated. As a public health problem that involves several animal species and humans, the management of the disease requires an interdisciplinary approach, and the concept of “One Health” must be addressed. In this direction, the present review intends to analyze viral hepatitis E, with a particular focus on wild boar. For this purpose, literature data have been collected from different scientific search engines: PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google scholar, and several keywords such as “HEV epidemiology”, “Extrahepatic manifestations of Hepatitis E”, and “HEV infection control measures”, among others, have been used. In the first part, the manuscript provides general information on the disease, such as epidemiology, transmission methods, clinical manifestations and implications on public health. In the second part, it addresses in more detail the role of wild boar as a reservoir and the implications related to the virus epidemiology. The document will be useful to all those who intend to analyze this infectious disease from a “One-Health” perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics of Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens)
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13 pages, 288 KiB  
Review
Current Status of the Diagnosis of Brugia spp. Infections
by Christopher C. Evans, Nils Pilotte and Andrew R. Moorhead
Pathogens 2024, 13(9), 714; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13090714 - 23 Aug 2024
Viewed by 702
Abstract
Filarial nematodes of the genus Brugia include parasites that are significant to both human and veterinary medicine. Accurate diagnosis is essential for managing infections by these parasites and supporting elimination programs. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as microscopy and serology, remain vital, especially in [...] Read more.
Filarial nematodes of the genus Brugia include parasites that are significant to both human and veterinary medicine. Accurate diagnosis is essential for managing infections by these parasites and supporting elimination programs. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as microscopy and serology, remain vital, especially in resource-limited settings. However, advancements in molecular diagnostics, including nucleic acid amplification tests, offer enhanced sensitivity and specificity. These techniques are becoming increasingly field-friendly, expanding their applications in diagnostics. By refining existing methods, developing novel biomarkers, and understanding the zoonotic potential of various Brugia species, it is possible to improve control measures and better support elimination efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics of Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens)
26 pages, 1057 KiB  
Review
Advances in Laboratory Diagnosis of Coronavirus Infections in Cattle
by Shaun van den Hurk, Girija Regmi, Hemant K. Naikare and Binu T. Velayudhan
Pathogens 2024, 13(7), 524; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13070524 - 21 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1452
Abstract
Coronaviruses cause infections in humans and diverse species of animals and birds with a global distribution. Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) produces predominantly two forms of disease in cattle: a respiratory form and a gastrointestinal form. All age groups of cattle are affected by the [...] Read more.
Coronaviruses cause infections in humans and diverse species of animals and birds with a global distribution. Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) produces predominantly two forms of disease in cattle: a respiratory form and a gastrointestinal form. All age groups of cattle are affected by the respiratory form of coronavirus, whereas the gastroenteric form causes neonatal diarrhea or calf scours in young cattle and winter dysentery in adult cattle. The tremendous impacts of bovine respiratory disease and the associated losses are well-documented and underscore the importance of this pathogen. Beyond this, studies have demonstrated significant impacts on milk production associated with outbreaks of winter dysentery, with up to a 30% decrease in milk yield. In North America, BCoV was identified for the first time in 1972, and it continues to be a significant economic concern for the cattle industry. A number of conventional and molecular diagnostic assays are available for the detection of BCoV from clinical samples. Conventional assays for BCoV detection include virus isolation, which is challenging from clinical samples, electron microscopy, fluorescent antibody assays, and various immunoassays. Molecular tests are mainly based on nucleic acid detection and predominantly include conventional and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. Isothermal amplification assays and genome sequencing have gained increased interest in recent years for the detection, characterization, and identification of BCoV. It is believed that isothermal amplification assays, such as loop-mediated isothermal amplification and recombinase polymerase amplification, among others, could aid the development of barn-side point-of-care tests for BCoV. The present study reviewed the literature on coronavirus infections in cattle from the last three and a half decades and presents information mainly on the current and advancing diagnostics in addition to epidemiology, clinical presentations, and the impact of the disease on the cattle industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics of Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens)
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Other

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11 pages, 804 KiB  
Brief Report
Performance of Fujifilm Dengue NS1 Antigen Rapid Diagnosis Kit Compared to Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
by Mya Myat Ngwe Tun, Merveille Kapandji, Atsuhiko Wada, Ko Yamamoto, Shyam Prakash Dumre, Khine Mya Nwe, Htin Lin, Yuki Takamatsu, Kyaw Zin Thant, Hlaing Myat Thu, Takeshi Urano, Basu Dev Pandey and Kouichi Morita
Pathogens 2024, 13(9), 818; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13090818 - 23 Sep 2024
Viewed by 757
Abstract
Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. About half of the world’s population is now at risk of dengue, which represents a global public health concern, especially in tropical [...] Read more.
Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. About half of the world’s population is now at risk of dengue, which represents a global public health concern, especially in tropical and subtropical countries. Early detection of the viral infection is crucial to manage the disease; hence, effective rapid diagnostic tests are essential. In this study, we evaluated the performance between the new Fujifilm Dengue non-structural antigen diagnosis kit (FF NS1 kit) and the SD Bioline NS1 antigen test kit (SD NS1 kit) against the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assays. The 140 acute serum samples collected from the Yangon General Hospital and Yangon Children’s Hospital, Myanmar, from 2017 to 2019 were characterised by the three assays. With the qRT-PCR as the standard, the FF NS1 kit and the SD NS1 kit exhibited sensitivity of 94.3% and 88.6%, respectively, and specificity of 100% in both kits. Moreover, the positivity rates of the FF NS1 kit and the SD NS1 kit were 97.5% and 95% in primary infection and 90% and 80% in secondary infection, respectively. Our overall results suggest that the FF NS1 kit is reliable and accurate for detecting DENV infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics of Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens)
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