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Pathogens
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Emerging Infectious Diseases
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Emerging Infectious Diseases

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

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 August 2023) | Viewed by 34697

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Bonto Faburay

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (FADDL), Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Greenport, NY 11944, USA
Interests: diagnostics; detection; surveillance; genomics; sequencing; genetic and phylogenetic characterization; vaccines; emerging infectious diseases
Prof. Dr. David Scott McVey

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska, P.O. Box 830905, Lincoln, NE 68583-0905, USA
Interests: vaccine formulation; immunogenicity; efficacy; effectiveness; adjuvants
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Despite significant advances in the development of tools to combat microbial agents, emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) continue to impact animal and public health, affecting wellbeing and livelihoods in communities across our planet. The impact is most evidently felt by the most vulnerable and marginalized in developing as well as advanced economies. Investments into developing vaccines and diagnostics or establishing adequate surveillance systems for many EIDs are grossly inadequate. Significant outbreaks of EIDs, on transboundary and pandemic scales, have occurred, most recently affecting both livestock and humans. Examples include outbreaks of African swine fever (ASF), a livestock disease, and Rift Valley fever, a zoonotic disease, impacting communities in Africa, Asia, and Europe, whereas COVID-19 remains a daunting challenge to control globally. Similarly, vector-borne diseases such as Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever and Japanese Encephalitis pose an imminent risk of spread to new areas in Europe, the Americas, Asia, and other non-endemic regions due to the complex interplay of warming global temperatures, expanding vector habitat, increasing human mobility, and population density. In fact, the true geographic distribution and risk of many EIDs are unknown. Evidently, there is need for enhanced epidemiological studies including modeling, and genomic surveillance to better understand the occurrence and risk of EIDs, and development and application of effective medical countermeasures—vaccines and diagnostics. Novel vaccines are needed to mitigate the spread and impact of EIDs in livestock production systems, especially in smallholder resource-constrained settings, on food insecurity, animal, and public health. Enhanced and expanded diagnostic surveillance systems, with the integrated use of conventional and next-generation  diagnostic platforms in serology, molecular approaches (PCR), and genomics (next-generation sequencing) to assess the risk and monitor the molecular evolution of EID agents are needed to create a sustainable environment for global health security.

This Special Issue welcomes contributions (original research articles, reviews, short communications) encompassing emerging animal and zoonotic diseases in any of the abovementioned areas, and it is anticipated to spotlight current developments and trends in EID investigations, surveillance, risk status, and development of medical countermeasures critical to mitigating the impact on global health and food security. 

Dr. Bonto Faburay
Prof. Dr. David Scott McVey
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Pathogens is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Emerging infectious diseases
  • Zoonotic diseases
  • Transboundary diseases
  • African swine fever
  • Rift Valley fever
  • Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever
  • Japanese encephalitis
  • Avian influenza
  • Bluetongue
  • West Nile
  • Classical swine fever
  • Equine encephalitis
  • Diagnostics
  • Surveillance
  • Disease prevalence
  • Vaccines
  • Modeling

Published Papers (16 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 4199 KiB  
Article
Pathogenicity and Pathological Characteristics of African Swine Fever Virus Strains from Pig Farms in South Korea from 2022 to January 2023
by Ki-Hyun Cho, Seong-Keun Hong, Da-Young Kim, Min-Kyung Jang, Jong-Ho Kim, Hyunkyoung Lee, Eun-Mi Kim, Ji-Hoon Park, Tae-Young Suh, Jun-Gu Choi, Dae-Sung Yoo, Hae-Eun Kang and Yeon-Hee Kim
Pathogens 2023, 12(9), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12091158 - 13 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1675
Abstract
Since the first African swine fever (ASF) outbreak occurred at a pig farm in South Korea in September 2019, as of 31 January 2023, 31 ASF cases have occurred at pig farms, while 2799 ASF virus (ASFV)-infected wild boars have been identified. The [...] Read more.
Since the first African swine fever (ASF) outbreak occurred at a pig farm in South Korea in September 2019, as of 31 January 2023, 31 ASF cases have occurred at pig farms, while 2799 ASF virus (ASFV)-infected wild boars have been identified. The circulation of ASFV in wild boar populations poses a high risk of spillover to pig farms in the country. However, information on the changes in the pathogenicity of Korean ASFV strains from wild boars is not available. Investigating the pathogenicity of ASFV strains from pig farms is the only way to predict their alterations. In a previous study, no changes in the pathogenicity of ASFV strains circulating during 2019–2021 were identified through animal experiments. In this study, we chose two ASFV strains with potentially reduced pathogenicity among ten viruses obtained from pig premises from 2022 to January 2023 and estimated their pathogenicities and pathological characteristics. All the inoculated pigs died 8–10 days post–inoculation after showing pyrexia, depression, anorexia, and recumbency together with the common pathological lesions of enlarged hemorrhagic lymph nodes and splenomegaly with infarction. These results support that the pathogenicity among ASFV isolates in South Korea still remained unchanged during the study period. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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14 pages, 1783 KiB  
Article
Serological Prevalence of Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus Infection in Small Ruminants and Cattle in The Gambia
by Jerusha Matthews, Arss Secka, D. Scott McVey, Kimberly A. Dodd and Bonto Faburay
Pathogens 2023, 12(6), 749; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12060749 - 23 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1583
Abstract
Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is a widely distributed tickborne zoonotic agent that infects a variety of host species. There is a lack of information on the true geographic distribution of the prevalence and risk of CCHFV in West Africa. A countrywide cross-sectional [...] Read more.
Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is a widely distributed tickborne zoonotic agent that infects a variety of host species. There is a lack of information on the true geographic distribution of the prevalence and risk of CCHFV in West Africa. A countrywide cross-sectional study involving 1413 extensively managed indigenous small ruminants and cattle at livestock sales markets and in village herds, respectively, was carried out in The Gambia. In sheep, an overall anti-CCHFV antibody prevalence of 18.9% (95% CI: 15.5–22.8%), goats 9.0% (95% CI: 6.7–11.7%), and cattle 59.9% (95% CI: 54.9–64.7%) was detected. Significant variation (p < 0.05) in the prevalence of anti-CCHFV antibodies at sites in the five administrative regions (sheep: 4.8–25.9%; goats: 1.8–17.1%) and three agroecological zones (sheep: 8.9–32.9%; goats: 4.1–18.0%) was also observed. Comparatively, higher anti-CCHFV antibody prevalence was detected in cattle (33.3–84.0%) compared to small ruminants (1.8–8.1%). This study represents the first countrywide investigation of the seroprevalence of CCHFV in The Gambia, and the results suggest potential circulation and endemicity of the virus in the country. These data provide critical information vital to the development of informed policies for the surveillance, diagnosis, and control of CCFHV infection in The Gambia and the region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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10 pages, 1504 KiB  
Article
Infection of the Ex Vivo Tonsil Model by HTLV-1 Envelope-Pseudotyped Viruses
by Mélanie Langlois, Salim Bounou, Michel J. Tremblay and Benoit Barbeau
Pathogens 2023, 12(2), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12020182 - 24 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1428
Abstract
Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is the causal agent of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma and HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis. Its tropism is known to be broad in cultured cell lines, while in vivo data support a more selective transmission toward CD4+ T [...] Read more.
Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is the causal agent of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma and HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis. Its tropism is known to be broad in cultured cell lines, while in vivo data support a more selective transmission toward CD4+ T cells and the limited targeting of other hematopoietic cell types. An essential condition for HTLV-1 infection is cell-to-cell contact, to which both virological synapse and viral biofilm have been suggested to strongly contribute. As cell lines and animal models each present their own limitations in studying HTLV-1 replication, we have explored the use of an ex vivo model based on the secondary lymphoid tonsillar tissue. HIV-1 luciferase-expressing pseudotyped viruses bearing the HTLV-1 envelope protein at their surface were first shown to recapitulate the wide spectrum of infectivity of HTLV-1 toward various cell lines. Tonsil fragments were next exposed to pseudotyped viruses and shown to be reproducibly infected. Infection by HTLV-1 Env-pseudotyped viruses was blocked by different anti-gp46 antibodies, unlike infection by HIV-1 virions. The dose-dependent infection revealed a gradual increase in luciferase activity, which was again sensitive to anti-gp46 antibodies. Overall, these results suggest that the ex vivo tonsil model represents a reliable alternative for studying HTLV-1 replication and potentially viral latency, as well as early clonal formation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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13 pages, 876 KiB  
Article
Emergence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A Virus (H5N1) of Clade 2.3.4.4b in Egypt, 2021–2022
by Zienab Mosaad, Mohamed H. Elhusseiny, Ali Zanaty, Mustafa M. Fathy, Naglaa M. Hagag, Wesam H. Mady, Dalia Said, Moataz M. Elsayed, Ahmed M. Erfan, Neveen Rabie, Abdelhafez Samir, Mohamed Samy, Abdel-Satar Arafa, Abdullah Selim, Ali M. Abdelhakim, Johanna F. Lindahl, Samah Eid, Åke Lundkvist, Momtaz A. Shahein and Mahmoud M. Naguib
Pathogens 2023, 12(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12010090 - 05 Jan 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3578
Abstract
Wild migratory birds have the capability to spread avian influenza virus (AIV) over long distances as well as transmit the virus to domestic birds. In this study, swab and tissue samples were obtained from 190 migratory birds during close surveillance in Egypt in [...] Read more.
Wild migratory birds have the capability to spread avian influenza virus (AIV) over long distances as well as transmit the virus to domestic birds. In this study, swab and tissue samples were obtained from 190 migratory birds during close surveillance in Egypt in response to the recent outbreaks of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus. The collected samples were tested for a variety of AIV subtypes (H5N1, H9N2, H5N8, and H6N2) as well as other pathogens such as NDV, IBV, ILT, IBDV, and WNV. Among all of the tested samples, the HPAI H5N1 virus was found in six samples; the other samples were found to be negative for all of the tested pathogens. The Egyptian HPAI H5N1 strains shared genetic traits with the HPAI H5N1 strains that are currently being reported in Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa in 2021–2022. Whole genome sequencing revealed markers associated with mammalian adaption and virulence traits among different gene segments, similar to those found in HPAI H5N1 strains detected in Europe and Africa. The detection of the HPAI H5N1 strain of clade 2.3.4.4b in wild birds in Egypt underlines the risk of the introduction of this strain into the local poultry population. Hence, there is reason to be vigilant and continue epidemiological and molecular monitoring of the AIV in close proximity to the domestic–wild bird interface. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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10 pages, 986 KiB  
Article
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus Clade 2.3.4.4b in Wild Birds and Live Bird Markets, Egypt
by Rabeh El-Shesheny, Yassmin Moatasim, Sara H. Mahmoud, Yi Song, Ahmed El Taweel, Mokhtar Gomaa, Mina Nabil Kamel, Mohamed El Sayes, Ahmed Kandeil, Tommy T. Y. Lam, Pamela P. McKenzie, Richard J. Webby, Ghazi Kayali and Mohamed Ahmed Ali
Pathogens 2023, 12(1), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12010036 - 26 Dec 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4464
Abstract
Clade 2.3.4.4 H5Nx influenza viruses have further diversified into several subclades. Sub-clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses have been widely circulating in wild birds and detected in Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America since October 2020. In this study, we report the first detection of [...] Read more.
Clade 2.3.4.4 H5Nx influenza viruses have further diversified into several subclades. Sub-clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses have been widely circulating in wild birds and detected in Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America since October 2020. In this study, we report the first detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses in wild birds and domestic ducks from live bird markets in Egypt. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Egyptian H5N1 virus retained the genomic composition of Eurasian strains. Mutations in the viral proteins associated with zoonotic potential and pathogenicity were detected in Egyptian isolates. Egypt is considered a hot spot for the evolution of the influenza virus, so active surveillance of avian influenza viruses in Egypt is warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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20 pages, 4356 KiB  
Article
Immunopathology of Renal Tissue in Fatal Cases of Dengue in Children
by Lucca de Lima Siqueira Oliveira, Felipe de Andrade Vieira Alves, Kíssila Rabelo, Leandro Junqueira Moragas, Ronaldo Mohana-Borges, Jorge José de Carvalho, Carlos Basílio-de-Oliveira, Rodrigo Basílio-de-Oliveira, Fernando Colonna Rosman, Natália Gedeão Salomão and Marciano Viana Paes
Pathogens 2022, 11(12), 1543; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11121543 - 15 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1449
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV) infection represents a worldwide public health concern and can cause damage to multiple organs, including the kidney. In this work, we investigated the histopathological changes caused by dengue virus infection along with the detection of inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and cell [...] Read more.
Dengue virus (DENV) infection represents a worldwide public health concern and can cause damage to multiple organs, including the kidney. In this work, we investigated the histopathological changes caused by dengue virus infection along with the detection of inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and cell expression patterns in the renal tissue of three fatal cases in children. Hematoxylin and Eosin staining was performed to analyze these histopathological changes. Immunohistochemistry allowed for the detection of immunological inflammatory markers in renal tissues that were quantified and further analyzed. Vascular congestion, edema and glomerular infiltrate were observed in the three cases, in addition to the thickening of the matrix area around the glomerular capillaries and mononuclear infiltrate associated with vascular congestion in the medullary region. The renal tissues exhibited collagen deposition and high expression of CD68+ Mø, CD8+ T, CD56+ cells and MMP-9, and the cytokine profile was mainly characterized by the expression of IFN-γ and TNF-α. Additionally, the expression of RANTES, VEGFR-2 and VCAM-1 were observed. The replication of DENV was evidenced by the detection of the NS3 protein. These results contributed to clarifying the main factors that may be involved in changes in the renal tissue of fatal cases of dengue in children. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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14 pages, 2834 KiB  
Article
An Investigation of Burkholderia pseudomallei Seroprevalence in Market Pigs Slaughtered at Selected Pig Abattoirs in Uganda
by John E. Ekakoro, Arnold Lubega, Edrine B. Kayaga, Dickson Ndoboli, Andrew P. Bluhm, Eddie M. Wampande, Jason K. Blackburn, Karyn A. Havas and Michael H. Norris
Pathogens 2022, 11(11), 1363; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11111363 - 16 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1567
Abstract
Burkholderia pseudomallei is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes melioidosis, a disease of humans and animals. It is primarily transmitted through direct contact with contaminated soil and surface water. The epidemiology of this pathogen in Africa, including Uganda, is largely unknown. The objectives of [...] Read more.
Burkholderia pseudomallei is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes melioidosis, a disease of humans and animals. It is primarily transmitted through direct contact with contaminated soil and surface water. The epidemiology of this pathogen in Africa, including Uganda, is largely unknown. The objectives of this study were to estimate the seroprevalence of B. pseudomallei in pigs slaughtered in central Uganda and to identify potential hotspots for this pathogen in the country. A total of 1035 pig sera were analyzed for serological responses to B. pseudomallei with type A and type B LPS using OPS type A and OPS type B ELISAs. Of the 1035 samples, 75 (7.25%, 95% CI: 5.8–9%) were seropositive to the OPS-A ELISA using a two standard deviations (SD) cutoff and 19 (1.84%, 95% CI: 1.2–2.9%) at 3 SD. For the OPS-B ELISA, 93/1035 (8.99%, 95% CI: 7.4–10.9%) were seropositive at the 2 SD cutoff, and 28/1035 (2.71%, 95% CI: 1.9–3.9%) at the 3 SD cutoff. Pigs slaughtered in central Uganda were exposed to B. pseudomallei, and there is a higher seroprevalence in the rainy months. Public health awareness campaigns about melioidosis may be needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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20 pages, 958 KiB  
Article
Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Rift Valley Fever in Livestock from Three Ecological Zones of Malawi
by Henson Kainga, Marvin Collen Phonera, Elisha Chatanga, Simegnew Adugna Kallu, Prudence Mpundu, Mulemba Samutela, Herman Moses Chambaro, Masahiro Kajihara, Doreen Mainza Shempela, Jay Sikalima, Walter Muleya, Misheck Shawa, Julius Chulu, Gilson Njunga, Martin Simuunza, Ayato Takada, Hirofumi Sawa, Edgar Simulundu and Ngonda Saasa
Pathogens 2022, 11(11), 1349; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11111349 - 14 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1871
Abstract
The epidemiology of Rift Valley fever (RVF) is poorly understood in Malawi. Here, a cross-sectional study was conducted (March–June 2020) to investigate the seroprevalence and potential risk factors of RVF virus (RVFV) in cattle, goats, and sheep in three ecological zones of Malawi. [...] Read more.
The epidemiology of Rift Valley fever (RVF) is poorly understood in Malawi. Here, a cross-sectional study was conducted (March–June 2020) to investigate the seroprevalence and potential risk factors of RVF virus (RVFV) in cattle, goats, and sheep in three ecological zones of Malawi. A total of 1523 serum samples were tested for anti-RVFV IgG and IgM antibodies by ELISA. Additionally, a questionnaire survey was used to assess potential RVF risk factors. The overall seroprevalence was 17.14% (261/1523; 95% CI = 15.33–19.11) for individual livestock and 33.24% (120/361; 95% CI = 28.18–38.11) for the livestock herd. Seroprevalence was significantly high in sheep (25.68%, 95% CI = 19.31–33.26) compared with cattle (21.35%, 95% CI = 18.74–24.22) and goats (7.72%, 95% CI = 5.72–10.34), (p = 0.047). At the individual livestock level, the risk was elevated in female livestock (OR: 1.74, 95% CI = 1.08–12.82) (p = 0.016), while at the herd level, areas receiving approximately 1001–1500 mm of rainfall (OR: 2.47, 95% CI = 1.14–5.37) (p = 0.022), areas of rainfall amount greater than approximately 1600 mm (OR: 2.239, 95% CI = 1.07–8.82) (p = 0.023), and mixed species herds (OR: 10.410, 95% CI = 3.04–35.59) (p = 0.001), were significant risk factors. The detection of IgM antibodies confirmed active circulation of RVFV in Malawi. Therefore, monitoring of RVF in animals, humans, and vectors using a “One Health” approach, along with community sensitization among the high-risk populations, could help mitigate the threat posed by this zoonotic disease in Malawi. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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12 pages, 1716 KiB  
Article
Biological Profile and Clinical Features as Determinants for Prolonged Hospitalization in Adult Patients with Measles: A Monocentric Study in Western Romania
by Mirela Turaiche, Bogdan Feciche, Adrian Gluhovschi, Felix Bratosin, Iulia Bogdan, Adrian Vasile Bota, Mirela Loredana Grigoras, Camelia Vidita Gurban, Bianca Cerbu, Ana-Olivia Toma, Srivathsava Gurumurthy, Prima Hapsari Wulandari and Iosif Marincu
Pathogens 2022, 11(9), 1018; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11091018 - 07 Sep 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1683
Abstract
Measles is a highly infectious and sometimes deadly illness that is preventable with vaccination. The present research aims to analyze the most recent measles epidemic from Romania that occurred in a population with a falling desire to receive immunizations, by detailing the clinical [...] Read more.
Measles is a highly infectious and sometimes deadly illness that is preventable with vaccination. The present research aims to analyze the most recent measles epidemic from Romania that occurred in a population with a falling desire to receive immunizations, by detailing the clinical picture and biological profile of hospitalized patients. A secondary goal of the present research is to identify characteristics that increase the likelihood of a longer hospitalization and the development of measles-related pneumonia. A retrospective cohort study was conducted to follow the course and effects of measles virus infection in adult hospitalized patients who were divided into two groups based on whether they had been in the hospital for more than 6 days or fewer than 6 days. A total of 114 adult patients with measles were eligible to participate in the trial if they had a positive measles-specific IgM antibody test resulting from the study. The average age in the short hospital stay group was 28.1 years, while the average age in the long hospital stay group was 31.9 years. There was a statistically significant difference in the number of Roma persons in the research groups, with 17.4 percent of them having a lengthy hospital stay compared to 5.9 percent in the group with a short hospital stay, according to the findings. It was observed that many patients had a long hospitalization associated with chronic lung disease (OR = 1.07), liver damage (OR = 1.66), Roma ethnicity (OR = 1.79), a long duration elapsed from the last MMR dose (OR = 2.02), elevated c-reactive protein (OR = 2.17), the presence of bilateral pulmonary condensations on X-ray (OR = 3.13), and elevated procalcitonin (OR = 3.49). The same significant independent risk factors were also associated with the development of pneumonia. It is of imperative need to address these risk factors in a patient with measles, moreover in association with an unknown status of vaccination. Vaccination awareness against measles must be pushed in Romania to determine a higher than 95% coverage. Significant efforts are still needed to ensure improved protection against measles epidemics within a specific region or population and, more importantly, in patients with significant risk factors for complications, as described in this study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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15 pages, 3547 KiB  
Article
Detection of Alpha- and Betacoronaviruses in Frugivorous and Insectivorous Bats in Nigeria
by Uwem George, Oluwadamilola George, Arthur Oragwa, Babatunde Motayo, Joshua Kamani, Andrew Adamu, Oluyomi Sowemimo, Richard Adeleke, Samson Abalaka, Nuhu Sani, Judith Oguzie, Philomena Eromon, Onikepe Folarin, Anise Happi, Isaac Komolafe and Christian Happi
Pathogens 2022, 11(9), 1017; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11091017 - 07 Sep 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2321
Abstract
The rise of bat-associated zoonotic viruses necessitates a close monitoring of their natural hosts. Since the detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), it is evident that bats are vital reservoirs of coronaviruses (CoVs). In this study, we investigated the presence of [...] Read more.
The rise of bat-associated zoonotic viruses necessitates a close monitoring of their natural hosts. Since the detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), it is evident that bats are vital reservoirs of coronaviruses (CoVs). In this study, we investigated the presence of CoVs in multiple bat species in Nigeria to identify viruses in bats at high-risk human contact interfaces. Four hundred and nine bats comprising four bat species close to human habitats were individually sampled from five states in Nigeria between 2019 and 2021. Coronavirus detection was done using broadly reactive consensus PCR primers targeting the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene of CoVs. Coronavirus RNA was detected in 39 samples (9.5%, CI 95%: [7.0, 12.8]), of which 29 were successfully sequenced. The identified CoVs in Nigerian bats were from the unclassified African alphacoronavirus lineage and betacoronavirus lineage D (Nobecovirus), with one sample from Hipposideros ruber coinfected with alphacoronavirus and betacoronavirus. Different bat species roosting in similar or other places had CoVs from the same genetic lineage. The phylogenetic and evolutionary dynamics data indicated a high CoV diversity in Nigeria, while host switching may have contributed to CoV evolution. Robust sentinel surveillance is recommended to enhance our knowledge of emerging and re-emerging coronaviruses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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12 pages, 569 KiB  
Article
A Retrospective Study of the Seroprevalence of Dengue Virus and Chikungunya Virus Exposures in Nigeria, 2010–2018
by Pius S. Ekong, Mabel K. Aworh, Elysse N. Grossi-Soyster, Yiltawe S. Wungak, Nanven A. Maurice, Jonathan Altamirano, Michael J. Ekong, Babasola O. Olugasa, Chika I. Nwosuh, David Shamaki, Bonto Faburay and Desiree A. LaBeaud
Pathogens 2022, 11(7), 762; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11070762 - 04 Jul 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2162
Abstract
Arboviruses are important public health threats in many regions of the world. Nigeria has experienced outbreaks of arboviruses over the past decades, leading to concerns of widespread endemicity, which are frequently misdiagnosed. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of dengue virus (DENV) [...] Read more.
Arboviruses are important public health threats in many regions of the world. Nigeria has experienced outbreaks of arboviruses over the past decades, leading to concerns of widespread endemicity, which are frequently misdiagnosed. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of dengue virus (DENV) (a flavivirus) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) (an alphavirus) infections in three major population centers of Nigeria. A convenience sample of 701 sera was collected from both healthy and febrile participants between August 2010 and March 2018. Sera were tested for prior exposure to CHIKV virus and DENV using indirect IgG ELISA. Results showed that 54.1% (379/701) of participants were seropositive for anti-DENV antibodies, 41.3% (290/701) were seropositive for anti-CHIKV antibodies, and 20.1% (141/701) had previous exposure to both. The seropositivity for prior CHIKV exposure and prior exposure to DENV and CHIKV was significantly associated with age (CHIKV: OR = 2.7 (95% CI: 1.7–4.3); DENV and CHIKV: OR = 2.2 (95% CI: 1.2–4.0) for adults compared to participants under 18 years old). Overall, the high seropositivity across all age groups suggests that arboviral infections are prevalent in Nigeria and indicates that surveillance and further epidemiological studies are required to determine the true burden of these infections and the spectrum of diseases associated with these exposures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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9 pages, 2286 KiB  
Article
Immunodominant B-Cell Linear Epitope on the VP1 P Domain of a Feline Norovirus Cat Model
by Tomomi Takano, Mizuki Ryu, Tomoyoshi Doki and Hajime Kusuhara
Pathogens 2022, 11(7), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11070731 - 27 Jun 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1622
Abstract
Norovirus (NoV) infection remains a major public health concern worldwide. Appropriate animal models are essential for the development of effective NoV vaccines. We previously established the feline NoV (FNoV)-cat model as a surrogate animal model for human NoV infection. In the present study, [...] Read more.
Norovirus (NoV) infection remains a major public health concern worldwide. Appropriate animal models are essential for the development of effective NoV vaccines. We previously established the feline NoV (FNoV)-cat model as a surrogate animal model for human NoV infection. In the present study, we analyzed the B-cell linear epitope in the P domain of FNoV to confirm the basic immunological features of the FNoV-cat model. B-cell linear epitopes were present in the P2 subdomain. We compared antibody levels to peptides containing the B-cell linear epitope (P-10) in three FNoV-infected cats with time-course changes in viral load and symptom scoring. After FNoV infection, viral shedding and clinical symptoms were shown to improve by elevated levels of antibodies against P-10 in the plasma. This report provides important information for understanding NoV infections in humans and cats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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9 pages, 242 KiB  
Article
Zoonotic Disease Testing Practices in Pediatric Patients with Meningitis and Encephalitis in a Subtropical Region
by Timothy A. Erickson, Shannon E. Ronca, Sarah M. Gunter, Eric L. Brown, Rodrigo Hasbun and Kristy O. Murray
Pathogens 2022, 11(5), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11050501 - 22 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1752
Abstract
Emerging vector-borne and zoonotic pathogens can cause neuroinvasive disease in children; utilization of appropriate diagnostic testing can be low, hindering diagnosis and clinical management of these cases. We must understand factors that influence healthcare providers’ decisions to order diagnostic testing. We reviewed medical [...] Read more.
Emerging vector-borne and zoonotic pathogens can cause neuroinvasive disease in children; utilization of appropriate diagnostic testing can be low, hindering diagnosis and clinical management of these cases. We must understand factors that influence healthcare providers’ decisions to order diagnostic testing. We reviewed medical charts for pediatric meningitis and encephalitis patients (90 days–18 years) between 2010 and 2017 and analyzed variables associated with testing for known neuroinvasive zoonotic pathogens in the southern United States: West Nile virus (WNV), Bartonella spp., and Rickettsia spp. Among 620 cases of meningitis and encephalitis, ~1/3 (n = 209, 34%) were tested for WNV. Fewer cases were tested for Bartonella (n = 77, 12%) and Rickettsia (n = 47, 8%). Among those tested, 14 (7%) WNV, 7 (9%) Bartonella, and 6 (13%) Rickettsia cases were identified. Factors predicting testing were similar between all agents: clinical presentation of encephalitis, focal neurologic symptoms, new onset seizure, and decreased Glasgow Coma Scale on admission. Cases with a history of arthropod contact were more likely to be tested; however, we did not see an increase in testing during the summer season, when vector exposure typically increases. While our test utilization was higher than that reported in other studies, improvement is needed to identify zoonotic causes of neuroinvasive diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
8 pages, 223 KiB  
Communication
Experimental Infection and In-Contact Transmission of H9N2 Avian Influenza Virus in Crows
by Asha Kumari Verma, Manoj Kumar, Harshad V. Murugkar, Shanmugasundaram Nagarajan, Chakradhar Tosh, Pushpendra Namdeo, Rupal Singh, Suman Mishra, Subbiah Kombiah, Senthilkumar Dhanapal and Vijendra Pal Singh
Pathogens 2022, 11(3), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11030304 - 28 Feb 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2258
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the potential of H9N2 avian influenza virus to cause disease and intra-species transmission in house crows (Corvus splendens). A group of six crows were intranasally inoculated with 106.0 EID50 of H9N2 virus (A/chicken/India/07OR17/2021), and [...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate the potential of H9N2 avian influenza virus to cause disease and intra-species transmission in house crows (Corvus splendens). A group of six crows were intranasally inoculated with 106.0 EID50 of H9N2 virus (A/chicken/India/07OR17/2021), and 24 h post-inoculation six naïve crows were co-housed with infected crows. Crows were observed for 14 days for any overt signs of illness. Oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs were collected up to 14 days to assess virus excretion. No apparent clinical signs were observed in either infected or in-contact crows. Virus excretion was observed only in infected birds up to 9 days post-infection (dpi) through both oropharyngeal and cloacal routes. All six infected crows seroconverted to H9N2 virus at 14 dpi, whereas all in-contact crows remained negative to H9N2 virus antibodies. No virus could be isolated from tissues viz., lung, liver, kidney, pancreas, small intestine and large intestine. Although crows became infected with the H9N2 virus, transmission of the virus was inefficient to the in-contact group. However, virus excretion through oral and cloacal swabs from infected crows suggests a potential threat for inter-species transmission, including humans. Crows, being a common synanthrope species, might have some role in influenza virus transmission to poultry and humans, which needs to be explored further. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

10 pages, 731 KiB  
Review
The Elusive Trypanosoma cruzi Disperse Gene Protein Family (DGF-1)
by José Luis Ramírez
Pathogens 2023, 12(2), 292; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12020292 - 10 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1541
Abstract
Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi infections, is included in the group of neglected diseases, and efforts to develop new therapeutic or immunoprevention approaches have not been successful. After the publication of the T. cruzi genome, the number of molecular and biochemical studies [...] Read more.
Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi infections, is included in the group of neglected diseases, and efforts to develop new therapeutic or immunoprevention approaches have not been successful. After the publication of the T. cruzi genome, the number of molecular and biochemical studies on this parasite has increased considerably, many of which are focused on families of variant surface proteins, especially trans-sialidases, mucins, and mucin-associated proteins. The disperse gene protein 1 family (DGF-1) is one of the most abundant families in the T. cruzi genome; however, the large gene size, high copy numbers, and low antibody titers detected in infected humans make it an unattractive study target. However, here we argue that given the ubiquitous presence in all T. cruzi species, and physicochemical characteristics, the DGF-1 gene family may play and important role in host-parasite interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

6 pages, 225 KiB  
Opinion
Genome Plasticity of African Swine Fever Virus: Implications for Diagnostics and Live-Attenuated Vaccines
by Bonto Faburay
Pathogens 2022, 11(2), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11020145 - 24 Jan 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2574
Abstract
African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious transboundary viral hemorrhagic disease of domestic and wild pigs presenting a significant threat to the global swine industry. Following its introduction in Caucasus, Georgia, in 2007, the genome of the genotype II of African swine [...] Read more.
African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious transboundary viral hemorrhagic disease of domestic and wild pigs presenting a significant threat to the global swine industry. Following its introduction in Caucasus, Georgia, in 2007, the genome of the genotype II of African swine fever virus (ASFV) strain Georgia-07 and its derivatives accumulated significant mutations, resulting in the emergence of genetic variants within short epidemiological timescales as it spreads and infects different hosts in diverse ecosystems, causing outbreaks in Europe, South Asia, South East Asia and the Caribbean. This suggests that ASFV, with a comparatively large and complex DNA genome, is susceptible to genetic mutations including deletions and that although the virus is environmentally stable, it is genetically unstable. This has implications for the development of vaccines and diagnostic tests for disease detection and surveillance. Analysis of the ASFV genome revealed recombination hotspots, which in double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) viruses represent key drivers of genetic diversity. The ability of pox virus, a dsDNA virus with a genome complexity similar to ASFV, regaining virulence following the deletion of a virulence gene via gene amplification, coupled with the recent emergence and spread of live-attenuated ASFV vaccine strains causing disease and death in pigs in China, raise legitimate concerns around the use of live-attenuated ASFV vaccines in non-endemic regions to control the potential introduction. Further research into the risk of using live-attenuated ASFV in non-endemic regions is highly needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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