ORCID Profile
0000-0002-9921-4986
Current Organisation
University of Sydney
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Veterinary Microbiology (excl. Virology) | Aquaculture | Veterinary Sciences | Veterinary Epidemiology | Fish Pests and Diseases | Population, Ecological and Evolutionary Genetics | Fisheries Sciences
Control of Pests, Diseases and Exotic Species at Regional or Larger Scales | Pigs | Beef Cattle | Aquaculture Fin Fish (excl. Tuna) |
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 07-02-2008
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 08-07-2019
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 06-2010
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268809002829
Abstract: A series of simulation experiments was conducted to determine how estimates of the latent and infectious periods, number of neighbours (contacts) and population size impact on the predicted magnitude and distribution of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks in white-tailed deer in southern Texas. Outbreaks were simulated using a previously developed and applied susceptible–latent–infected–recovered geographic automata model. There were substantial differences in the estimated predicted number of deer and locations infected, based on the model parameters used (3779–119 879 deer infected and 227–6526 locations affected). There were also substantial differences in the spatial risk of infection based on the model parameters used. The predicted spread of FMD was found to be most sensitive to the assumed latent period and the assumed number of contacts. How these parameters are estimated is likely to be critical in studies on the impact of FMD spread in situations in which wildlife reservoirs might potentially exist.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2011.03.002
Abstract: The 2007 epidemic of equine influenza in Australia provided an opportunity to investigate the effectiveness of on-farm biosecurity measures in preventing the spread of a novel pathogen in a largely naive population. We conducted a case-control study of 200 horse premises from highly affected regions of the state of New South Wales (NSW), to investigate risk factors for the spread of equine influenza onto horse premises, specifically, non-compliance with biosecurity measures recommended to horse owners by the relevant animal health authority, the NSW Department of Primary Industries. The study was restricted to cases occurring during the first seven weeks of the epidemic, a period prior to vaccination and the relaxation of some movement restrictions. Case and control premises were selected from a laboratory testing dataset and interviews were conducted with horse owners and managers on premises between July and November 2009. The proximity of premises to the nearest infected premises was the factor most strongly associated with case status. Case premises were more likely than control premises to be within 5 km and beyond 10 km of an infected premises. Having a footbath in place on the premises before any horses were infected was associated with a nearly four-fold reduction in odds of infection (odds ratio=0.27 95% confidence interval: 0.09, 0.83). This protective association may have reflected overall premises biosecurity standards related to the fomite transmission of equine influenza. Compliance with certain on-farm biosecurity practices seemingly prevented horses on premises in high risk areas being infected with equine influenza during the 2007 outbreak in Australia. In future outbreaks, in addition to broader disease control measures, on-farm biosecurity practices should be adopted by horse owners and managers to prevent equine influenza spread.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-08-2020
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13002
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-10-2022
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13125
Abstract: The COVID‐19 pandemic and associated restrictions have caused major changes in veterinary practice. Utilising a subset of qualitative data from a global survey of 540 veterinarians, veterinary nurses and animal health technicians, we highlight the impact of these changes on communication in veterinary clinical practice. Communication challenges experienced by veterinary team members included lack of face‐to‐face contact with clients increased difficulty in communicating in general inability to demonstrate physical examination, diagnostic findings or treatment information to clients difficulty in communicating while wearing personal protective equipment increased ‘miscommunication’ and challenges in convincing clients of the importance of pandemic‐associated protocols. These findings suggest a need for veterinary teams to modify and adapt their communication strategies to facilitate effective communication where social distancing and noncontact consultations are required.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-08-2020
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13005
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 30-10-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-06-2019
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12831
Abstract: This survey aimed to understand hunting practices involving domestic dogs in remote Indigenous communities in northern Australia and, in the context of disease transmission, describe the domestic-wild dog interface and intercommunity interactions of hunting dogs during hunting activities. A cross-sectional survey of 13 hunters from communities of the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) of Queensland gathered information on demographics of hunters and hunting dogs, hunting practices and past encounters with wild dogs during hunting trips. Social networks that described the connections of hunters between NPA communities from hunting expeditions were developed. Most hunters interviewed were not aware of any diseases that could be transmitted to dogs (n = 11) or humans (n = 9) from wild animals while hunting. More than half (n = 7) of the respondents had experienced at least one wild dog encounter during hunting in the year prior to the interview. A map of the relative risk of interactions between wild and hunting dogs during hunting trips allowed the identification of high-risk areas in the NPA these areas are characterised by dense rainforests. The social networks at the community level resulted in relatively large density measures reflecting a high level of intercommunity connectedness. This study contributes to our knowledge of Australian Indigenous hunting practices and supports the potential for disease transmission at the domestic-wild dog interface and intercommunity level through contacts between hunting dogs during hunting activities. Insights from this study also highlight the need for educational programs on disease management in Indigenous communities of northern Australia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 07-12-2022
DOI: 10.1071/MA22060
Abstract: African swine fever (ASF) is not a new disease: its impact on domestic pig production in Africa was first documented 100 years ago. For most of the twentieth century ASF was considered a disease of Africa, with occasional incursions into Europe and the western hemisphere. However, during the past two decades, ASF has emerged as a truly global diseases, invading parts of Europe and spreading throughout Asia. By 2020, ASF had spread as far as Papua New Guinea. Why ASF has spread such distances so quickly is not well understood, however the movement of both live pigs and pork products undoubtedly is a major contributing factor. The role that wild pigs play in the spread and maintenance of ASF virus is a topic of ongoing debate. Adding to the complexity of the epidemiology of this disease, ASF virus can be transmitted by some tick species in particular ecosystems. Australia is vulnerable to an ASF virus incursion. The threat is further heightened by the uncertainty regarding whether our large and widely distributed feral pig population would become endemically infected, creating a barrier to eradication of the disease. Preventing an incursion of ASF virus relies on ongoing risk assessments based on where the virus currently exists, and the disease pathways for introduction. Within the Australian context, regulatory enforcement and surveillance of illegally important pork products is paramount to minimise the treat that ASF poses.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Date: 08-06-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12278
Abstract: To use simulation modelling to predict the potential spread and to explore control options for a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) incursion in a mixed wild pig-domestic cattle ecosystem in northern Australia. Based on aerial surveys, expert opinion and published data, the wild pig and grazing cattle distributions were simulated. A susceptible-infected-resistant disease-spread model was coded and parameterised according to published literature and expert opinion. A baseline scenario was simulated in which infection was introduced via wild pigs, with transmission from pigs to cattle and no disease control. Assumptions regarding disease transmission were investigated via sensitivity analyses. Predicted size and length of outbreaks were compared for different control strategies based on movement standstill, surveillance and depopulation. In most of the simulations, FMD outbreaks were predicted to be ongoing after 6 months, with more cattle herds infected than wild pig herds (median 907 vs. 22, respectively). Assuming only pig-to-pig transmission, the infection routinely died out. In contrast, assuming cattle-to-cattle, cattle-to-pig or pig-to-cattle transmission resulted in FMD establishing and spreading in more than 75% of simulations. A control strategy targeting wild pigs only was not predicted to be successful. Control based on cattle only was successful in eradicating the disease. However, control targeting both pigs and cattle resulted in smaller outbreaks. If FMD is controlled in cattle in the modelled ecosystem, it is likely to be self-limiting in wild pigs. However, to eradicate disease as quickly as possible, both wild pigs and cattle should be targeted for control.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 21-08-2019
DOI: 10.3390/ANI9090592
Abstract: Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline calicivirus (FCV), and feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) are common viral infections of domestic cats in Australia. A study was performed to investigate the possible effect of area-based socioeconomic factors on the occurrence of FIV, FCV, and FHV-1 infection in Australian client-owned cats. A total of 1044 cases, reported to a voluntary Australian online disease surveillance system between January 2010 and July 2017, were analysed with respect to their postcode-related socioeconomic factors using the Socio-Economic Indexes For Areas (SEIFA). SEIFA consists of four different indexes which describe different aspects of socioeconomic advantage and disadvantage. Signalment details including age, sex, neuter status, and breed were also considered. A significant correlation was observed between areas of lower socioeconomic status and a higher number of reported cases of FIV infection for all four SEIFA indexes (p ≤ 0.0002). Postcodes with SEIFA indexes below the Australian median (“disadvantaged” areas) were 1.6–2.3 times more likely to have reported cases of FIV infection than postcodes with SEIFA indexes above the median (“advantaged” areas). In contrast, no correlation was observed between the number of reported cases of FCV or FHV-1 infection and any of the four SEIFA indexes (p 0.05). When signalment data were analysed for the three infections, FIV-infected cats were more likely to be older (p 0.00001), male (p 0.0001), neutered (p = 0.03), and non-pedigree (p 0.0001) compared to FCV and FHV-1 infected cats. Results from this study suggest that area-based disease control strategies, particularly in areas of social disadvantage, might be effective in reducing the prevalence of FIV infection in pet cats in Australia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2017.09.005
Abstract: Tick paralysis has a major impact on pet dog and cat populations in southeastern Australia. It results from envenomation by Ixodes holocyclus and Ixodes cornuatus ticks, the role of Ixodes cornuatus in the epidemiology of this disease in Australia being unclear. The aim of this study was to describe the geographical distribution of tick paralysis cases in southeastern Australia using data from a national disease surveillance system and to compare characteristics of "endemic" cases with those reported outside this endemic zone ("sporadic" cases). Data were collated and a proportional symbol map of all cases by postcode was created. A 15-case isopleth was developed based on descriptive spatial statistics (directional ellipses) and then kernel smoothing to distinguish endemic from sporadic cases. During the study period (January 2010-December 2015) 12,421 cases were reported, and 10,839 of these reported by clinics located in 434 postcodes were included in the study. Endemic cases were predominantly reported from postcodes in coastal southeastern Australia, from southern Queensland to eastern Victoria. Of those cases meeting selection criteria, within the endemic zone 10,767 cases were reported from 351 (88%) postcodes and outside this zone 72 cases were reported from 48 (12%) postcodes. Of these latter 48 postcodes, 18 were in Victoria (26 cases), 16 in New South Wales (28 cases), 7 in Tasmania (9 cases), 5 in South Australia (7 cases) and 2 in Queensland (2 cases). Seasonal distribution in reporting was found: 62% of endemic and 52% of sporadic cases were reported in spring. The number of both endemic and sporadic cases reported peaked in October and November, but importantly a secondary peak in reporting of sporadic cases in April was found. In non-endemic areas, summer was the lowest risk season whilst in endemic areas, autumn was the lowest risk season. Two clusters of sporadic cases were identified, one in South Australia (P=0.022) during the period 22 May to 2 June 2012 and another in New South Wales (P=0.059) during the period 9 October to 29 November 2012. Endemic and sporadic cases did not differ with respect to neuter status (P=0.188), sex (P=0.205), case outcome (P=0.367) or method of diagnosis (P=0.413). However, sporadic cases were 4.2-times more likely to be dogs than cats (P<0.001). The endemic tick paralysis zone described is consistent with previous anecdotal reports. Sporadic cases reported outside this zone might be due to a history of pet travel to endemic areas, small foci of I. holocyclus outside of the endemic zone, or in the case of southern areas, tick paralysis caused by I. cornuatus.
Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Date: 05-10-2010
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 13-01-2009
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-08-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2013.11.012
Abstract: The continued spread of rabies through the eastern islands of Indonesia poses a risk of rabies introduction to Timor Leste. To prepare for such an incursion and to undertake surveillance activities, the size and distribution of the roaming dog population needs to be estimated. We present the results of the first such surveys ever undertaken in Timor Leste. Roaming dog surveys were undertaken in each capital of the 13 districts of Timor Leste, including the national capital, Dili. Within these locations, local urban areas (aldeias) were targeted and sight-re-sight counts were undertaken on consecutive days. Estimated dog populations were adjusted for the s ling fraction. Overall, counts were performed in a total of 53 of 131 (40.5%) sucos and in 192 of 797 (24.1%) aldeias in these selected sucos. Within the surveyed urban areas, there were an estimated 21.2 people per roaming dog, a ratio substantially higher than the World Health Organization's average global estimate of 10 people per dog. The highest populations of dogs were estimated in the cities of Dili (4919), Baucau vila (3449) and Lospalos (2536). The latter two are important because of their location in the northeast of Timor Leste, where the risk of rabies incursion from recently infected islands in eastern Indonesia, is likely greatest. The sight-resight method of estimating roaming dog populations is practical in developing countries more use of photography to aid resighting of dogs could increase the accuracy of this method.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-06-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-021-92301-0
Abstract: Shortly after the enactment of restrictions aimed at limiting the spread of COVID-19, various local government and public health authorities around the world reported an increased sighting of rats. Such reports have yet to be empirically validated. Here we combined data from multi-catch rodent stations (providing data on rodent captures), rodent bait stations (providing data on rodent activity) and residents’ complaints to explore the effects of a six week lockdown period on rodent populations within the City of Sydney, Australia. The s ling interval encompassed October 2019 to July 2020 with lockdown defined as the interval from April 1st to May 15th, 2020. Rodent captures and activity (visits to bait stations) were stable prior to lockdown. Captures showed a rapid increase and then decline during the lockdown, while rodent visits to bait stations declined throughout this period. There were no changes in the frequency of complaints during lockdown relative to before and after lockdown. There was a non-directional change in the geographical distribution of indices of rodent abundance suggesting that rodents redistributed in response to resource scarcity. We hypothesize that lockdown measures initially resulted in increased rodent captures due to sudden shortage of human-derived food resources. Rodent visits to bait stations might not show this pattern due to the nature of the binary data collected, namely the presence or absence of a visit. Relocation of bait stations driven by pest management goals may also have affected the detection of any directional spatial effect. We conclude that the onset of COVID-19 may have disrupted commensal rodent populations, with possible implications for the future management of these ubiquitous urban indicator species.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2012.05.003
Abstract: Anthropogenic and environmental factors were assessed as predictors of sub-districts in Bhutan that reported rabies in domestic animals during the period 1996-2009. Rabies surveillance data were retrieved from the Veterinary Information System database. Anthropogenic and environmental information were obtained from public data sources. Using the total number of rabies cases reported in domestic animals, the 205 sub-districts of Bhutan were categorized as those sub-districts that reported rabies and those that did not report rabies (n=146). Logistic regression models were fit to the data and odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. Sub-districts that share a border with India (OR 10.43 95% CI: 4.42-24.64 P<0.001) sub-districts connected by major roads (OR 3.09 95% CI: 1.24-7.68 P=0.015) and greater human population density (OR 3.26 95% CI: 1.48-7.21, P=0.003) were significantly associated with a sub-district reporting animal rabies in Bhutan during 1996-2009. Results suggest that human population characteristics play an important role in rabies occurrence.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.VPRSR.2017.06.007
Abstract: A hospital-based case-control study was undertaken to identify risk factors for - and space-time clusters of - bovine fascioliasis in Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Fascioliasis cases diagnosed using fecal s le test between January 2006 and December 2015 (n=593) at the Bangladesh Agricultural University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (BAUVTH) and three controls per case (n=1563) were selected. Data on date of report, location, age, breed, sex and body weight were extracted from the hospital records. A mixed multivariable logistic regression model with location as a random effect was built to identify risk factors for fascioliasis. The scan statistic (Bernoulli model) was used to identify space-time clusters. Compared to cattle ≤1year of age, the odds of fascioliasis were 5.2- (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.6-7.4), 6.1- (95% CI: 4.2-8.7) and 10.7-times (95% CI: 6.9-16.6) greater in cattle aged >1-3, >3-8 and >8years, respectively. The odds of fascioliasis were 1.4- (95% CI: 1.03-1.99) and 1.5-times (95% CI: 1.13-2.11) greater in post-monsoon and monsoon seasons, respectively, compared to winter. Five significant (P 1year, especially those >8years). Importantly, we have demonstrated high-risk periods (monsoon and post-monsoon) and disease hotspots of bovine fascioliasis. Focusing disease control efforts in time and space offers an opportunity to more effectively control bovine fascioliasis in Bangladesh and in other similar geo-climatic zones throughout the world.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 09-2022
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14671
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-07-2019
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12821
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 19-08-2022
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14675
Abstract: Avian influenza poses an increasing problem in Europe and around the world. Simulation models are a useful tool to predict the spatiotemporal risk of avian influenza spread and evaluate appropriate control actions. To develop realistic simulation models, valid transmission parameters are critical. Here, we reviewed published estimates of the basic reproduction number (R
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-12-2011
DOI: 10.1093/AEPP/PPR039
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 19-01-2019
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13105
Publisher: Royal Zoological Society of New South Wales
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.7882/AZ.2018.038
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.PARINT.2014.01.009
Abstract: The 10-year (1992-2001) World Bank Loan Project (WBLP) contributed greatly to schistosomiasis control in China. However, the re-emergence of schistosomiasis in recent years challenged the long-term progress of the WBLP strategy. In order to gain insight in the long-term progress of the WBLP, the spatial pattern of the epidemic was investigated in the Yangtze River Valley between 1999-2001 and 2007-2008. Two spatial cluster methods were jointly used to identify spatial clusters of cases. The magnitude and number of clusters varied during 1999-2001. It was found that prevalence of schistosomiasis had been greatly reduced and maintained at a low level during 2007-2008, with little change. Besides, spatial clusters most frequently occurred within 16 counties in the Dongting Lake region and within 5 counties in the Poyang Lake region. These findings precisely pointed out the prior places for future public health planning and resource allocation of schistosomiasis.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2004
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-10-2019
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-019-51447-8
Abstract: Australia is canine rabies free but free-roaming, domestic dog populations in remote northern communities are at risk of an incursion due to proximity to rabies-endemic south-east Asia. Unrestricted contact between dogs could facilitate rabies spread following an incursion, and increase the impact on both dogs and people. Whilst dog vaccination is the foundation of rabies prevention, control strategies could be enhanced by understanding the temporal pattern of roaming and associated risk factors, so that movement restrictions can be targeted. Global positioning system datasets from 132 dogs in eight Indigenous communities in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) of Australia were analysed using regression methods. The influence of risk factors (including age, sex, location, season and hour of day) on dogs’ distance from their residences were assessed. Dogs roamed furthest in the NPA and during the dry season. Daily peaks in mean roaming distance were observed at 1000–1100 hrs and 1700–1800 hrs in the Torres Strait, and 1700–1800 hrs in the NPA. These findings demonstrate that understanding community-specific temporal roaming patterns can inform targeted movement restrictions during an outbreak of rabies in remote communities in northern Australia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.VACCINE.2012.05.023
Abstract: The objective of this study was to estimate the cost of various interventions and to quantify the economic impacts of rabies in Bhutan. Cost-benefit of dog rabies elimination versus human post exposure treatment cost was also assessed. The average direct medical cost of human post-exposure treatment (using rabies vaccine only) was estimated to be Nu. 1615 (US$ 35.65) per 5-dose Essen regimen per patient. The cost would increase to Nu. 2497 (US$ 55.13) and Nu. 19,633 (US$ 433.41) per patient when one dose of either equine rabies immunoglobulin (ERIG) or human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG) is administered, respectively. The societal cost (direct medical and indirect patient expenses) per patient was estimated to be Nu. 2019 (US$ 45), Nu. 2901 (US$ 64) and Nu. 20,037 (US$ 442) using vaccine only, vaccine with ERIG and vaccine with HRIG, respectively. The average cost per dog vaccination and sterilization were estimated to be Nu. 75 (US$ 1.66) and Nu. 288 (US$ 6.36), respectively. The total direct cost of rabies and various interventions between 2001 and 2008 was estimated to be Nu. 46.95 million (US$ 1.03 million). The direct cost for intensified human PET was estimated to be Nu. 5.85 million (US$ 0.11 million) per year with a cumulated estimated costs of Nu. 35.10 million (US$ 0.70 million) while the cost of mass dog vaccination with at least 70% coverage is estimated to be approximately Nu. 10.31 million (US$ 0.21 million) at the end of 6 years. The combined cost of mass dog vaccination and human PET was estimated to be greater than the cost of human PET alone during the first 2 years of the c aign, and then would be lower than human PET cost alone after the 5th year of the c aign. The total cumulated cost of the combined strategy was estimated to be Nu. 34.14 million (US$ 0.73 million) and would be lower than the cumulated cost of human PET alone (Nu. 35.10 million, US$ 0.77 million) at the end of 6 years. Rabies represents a substantial economic impact to the Bhutanese society. Well-planned and implemented mass dog vaccination would result in elimination of rabies reservoirs in the domestic dog population and would eliminate human rabies cases. It would also reduce the recurrent expenditure on human post-exposure treatment.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2009.05.005
Abstract: We investigated how the size and distribution of wild deer and feral pigs - species that might act as potential foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) virus maintenance hosts - might affect the persistence and spread of FMD. We used a susceptible-latent-infected-recovered geographic-automata model and spatially referenced data from southern Texas, USA. Within this study area, 100 locations were randomly selected and FMD virus spread was simulated (50 simulations each) at each location. As expected, the predicted sizes (km(2)) of the wild deer outbreaks were highly correlated (r(SP)>0.95) with the number of deer at incursion locations, the total number of deer within 2 km of incursion locations, and the minimum and maximum deer herd size within 2 km of incursion locations. However, the predicted sizes of the feral pig outbreaks were only moderately correlated (r(SP) 0.63-0.67) with the total, maximum and variance of the number of feral pigs within 2 km of incursion locations. Lack of continuity within the feral pig herd distribution across the landscape makes predicting disease spread more difficult than for deer, a more homogenously distributed species. When assessing the potential of wild and feral animal species at a locality to act as maintenance hosts of FMD virus, estimates of the population size and distribution might serve as a useful indicator of potential outbreaks in some circumstances.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2017.07.010
Abstract: Although Australia is canine rabies free, the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA), Queensland and other northern Australian communities are at risk of an incursion due to proximity to rabies infected islands of Indonesia and existing disease spread pathways. Northern Australia also has large populations of free-roaming domestic dogs, presenting a risk of rabies establishment and maintenance should an incursion occur. Agent-based rabies spread models are being used to predict potential outbreak size and identify effective control strategies to aid incursion preparedness. A key component of these models is knowledge of dog roaming patterns to inform contact rates. However, a comprehensive understanding of how dogs utilise their environment and the heterogeneity of their movements to estimate contact rates is lacking. Using a novel simulation approach - and GPS data collected from 21 free-roaming domestic dogs in the NPA in 2014 and 2016 - we characterised the roaming patterns within this dog population. Multiple subsets from each in idual dog's GPS dataset were selected representing different monitoring durations and a utilisation distribution (UD) and derived core (50%) and extended (95%) home ranges (HR) were estimated for each duration. Three roaming patterns were identified, based on changes in mean HR over increased monitoring durations, supported by assessment of maps of daily UDs of each dog. Stay-at-home dogs consolidated their HR around their owner's residence, resulting in a decrease in mean HR (both core and extended) as monitoring duration increased (median peak core and extended HR 0.336 and 3.696ha, respectively). Roamer dogs consolidated their core HR but their extended HR increased with longer monitoring durations, suggesting that their roaming patterns based on place of residence were more variable (median peak core and extended HR 0.391 and 6.049ha, respectively). Explorer dogs demonstrated large variability in their roaming patterns, with both core and extended HR increasing as monitoring duration increased (median peak core and extended HR 0.650 and 9.520ha, respectively). These findings are likely driven by multiple factors that have not been further investigated within this study. Different roaming patterns suggest heterogeneous contact rates between dogs in this population. These findings will be incorporated into disease-spread modelling to more realistically represent roaming patterns and improve model predictions.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-12-2022
DOI: 10.3390/V15010061
Abstract: African swine fever (ASF) in Asia and the Pacific is currently dominated by ASF virus transmission within and between domestic pig populations. The contribution made by wild suids is currently not well understood their distribution, density and susceptibility to the virus has raised concerns that their role in the epidemiology of ASF in the region might be underestimated. Whilst in the Republic of Korea wild suids are considered important in the spread and maintenance of ASF virus, there is an apparent underreporting to official sources of the disease in wild suids from other countires and regions. A review of the current literature, an analysis of the official reporting resources and a survey of the World Organisation of Animal Health Member delegates in Asia and the Pacific were used to assess the potential role of wild suids in ASF outbreaks, and also to gain insight into what ASF management or control strategies are currently implemented for wild suids. Applying appropriate population control and management strategies can be increased in some areas, especially to assist in the conservation of endangered endemic wild suids in this region.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 29-01-2008
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.TVJL.2015.03.012
Abstract: The aim of this study was to describe the association between climate, weather and the occurrence of canine tick paralysis, feline tick paralysis and canine parvovirus in Australia. The Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) and monthly average rainfall (mm) data were used as indices for climate and weather, respectively. Case data were extracted from a voluntary national companion animal disease surveillance resource. Climate and weather data were obtained from the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology. During the 4-year study period (January 2010-December 2013), a total of 4742 canine parvovirus cases and 8417 tick paralysis cases were reported. No significant (P ≥ 0.05) correlations were found between the SOI and parvovirus, canine tick paralysis or feline tick paralysis. A significant (P < 0.05) positive cross-correlation was found between parvovirus occurrence and rainfall in the same month (0.28), and significant negative cross-correlations (-0.26 to -0.36) between parvovirus occurrence and rainfall 4-6 months previously. Significant (P < 0.05) negative cross-correlations (-0.34 to -0.39) were found between canine tick paralysis occurrence and rainfall 1-3 months previously, and significant positive cross-correlations (0.29-0.47) between canine tick paralysis occurrence and rainfall 7-10 months previously. Significant positive cross-correlations (0.37-0.68) were found between cases of feline tick paralysis and rainfall 6-10 months previously. These findings may offer a useful tool for the management and prevention of tick paralysis and canine parvovirus, by providing an evidence base supporting the recommendations of veterinarians to clients thus reducing the impact of these diseases.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2013.11.015
Abstract: Australia experienced its first ever outbreak of equine influenza in August 2007. Horses on 9359 premises were infected over a period of 5 months before the disease was successfully eradicated through the combination of horse movement controls, on-farm biosecurity and vaccination. In a previous premises-level case-control study of the 2007 equine influenza outbreak in Australia, the protective effect of several variables representing on-farm biosecurity practices were identified. Separately, factors associated with horse managers' perceptions of the effectiveness of biosecurity measures have been identified. In this analysis we applied additive Bayesian network modelling to describe the complex web of associations linking variables representing on-farm human behaviours during the 2007 equine influenza outbreak (compliance or lack thereof with advised personal biosecurity measures) and horse managers' perceptions of the effectiveness of such measures in the event of a subsequent outbreak. Heuristic structure discovery enabled identification of a robust statistical model for 31 variables representing biosecurity practices and perceptions of the owners and managers of 148 premises. The Bayesian graphical network model we present statistically describes the associations linking horse managers' on-farm biosecurity practices during an at-risk period in the 2007 outbreak and their perceptions of whether such measures will be effective in a future outbreak. Practice of barrier infection control measures were associated with a heightened perception of preparedness, whereas horse managers that considered their on-farm biosecurity to be more stringent during the outbreak period than normal practices had a heightened perception of the effectiveness of other measures such as controlling access to the premises. Past performance in an outbreak setting may indeed be a reliable predictor of future perceptions, and should be considered when targeting infection control guidance to horse owners and managers.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-02-2022
Abstract: The overpopulation of stray dogs is a serious public health and animal welfare concern in India. Neglected zoonotic diseases such as rabies and echinococcosis are transmitted at the stray–dog human interface, particularly in low to middle-income countries. The current study was designed to estimate the stray dog populations in Punjab to enhance the implementation of animal birth and disease (for ex le, rabies vaccination) control programs. This is the first systematic estimation of the stray dog population using a recommended method (mark–re-sight) in Punjab, India. The study was conducted from August 2016 to November 2017 in selected villages or wards in Punjab. For the rural areas, 22 sub-districts in each district were randomly selected, then one village from each of the 22 selected sub-districts was selected (by convenience s ling). For urban areas, 3 towns (less than 100,000 human population) and 2 large cities (more than or equal to 100,000 human population) were randomly selected, followed by convenience selection of two wards from each of the 5 selected towns/cities. To estimate the dog population size, we used a modified mark–re-sight procedure and analysed counts using two methods the Lincoln–Petersen formula with Chapman’s correction, and an application of Good–Turing theory (SuperDuplicates method estimated per km2 and per 1000 adult humans and were compared between localities (villages vs. towns), dog sex (male vs. female) and age group (young vs. adult) using linear mixed models with district as a random effect. The predicted mean (95% CI) count of the dogs per village or ward were extrapolated to estimate the number of stray dogs in Punjab based on (a) the number of villages and wards in the state (b) the adult human population of the state and (c) the built-up area of the state. Median stray dog populations per village and per ward using the Lincoln–Petersen formula with Chapman’s correction were estimated to be 33 and 65 dogs, respectively. Higher estimates of 61 per village and 112 per ward are reported using the SuperDuplicates method. The number of males was significantly higher than the number of females and the number of adult dogs was about three times the number of young dogs. Based on different methods, estimates of the mean stray dog population in the state of Punjab ranged from 519,000 to 1,569,000. The current study revealed that there are a substantial number of stray dogs and a high number reside in rural (versus urban) areas in Punjab. The estimated stray dog numbers pose a potential public health hazard in Punjab. This impact requires assessment. The estimated stray dog numbers will help develop a dog population and rabies control program in which information about the logistics required as well as costs of implementing such programmes in Punjab can be incorporated.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2007.11.022
Abstract: Cases of human and equine West Nile virus (WNV) disease reported in Texas in 2002 were analyzed to assess their temporal relationship. For each human case with a known residential location, the closest equine case (within a 5 km radius) was selected. A total of 80 human-equine case pairs were identified, 51 (64%) of which were located in urban areas. Dates-of-onset of human and equine cases were positively correlated (r(SP)=0.494, P<0.001). Although overall there was no significant (P=0.207) difference between the dates-of-onset of human and equine cases, in urban areas of Texas equine cases were reported significantly (P=0.011) earlier (August 7) than corresponding human cases (August 19). Monitoring equine populations that are susceptible to WNV disease within close proximity to urban human populations might be useful for predicting disease risk in human populations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2009.10.008
Abstract: The conduct of randomized controlled trials in livestock with production, health, and food-safety outcomes presents unique challenges that may not be adequately reported in trial reports. The objective of this project was to modify the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) statement to reflect the unique aspects of reporting these livestock trials. A two-day consensus meeting was held on November 18-19, 2008 in Chicago, IL, United States of America, to achieve the objective. Prior to the meeting, a Web-based survey was conducted to identify issues for discussion. The 24 attendees were biostatisticians, epidemiologists, food-safety researchers, livestock-production specialists, journal editors, assistant editors, and associate editors. Prior to the meeting, the attendees completed a Web-based survey indicating which CONSORT statement items may need to be modified to address unique issues for livestock trials. The consensus meeting resulted in the production of the REFLECT (Reporting Guidelines For Randomized Control Trials) statement for livestock and food safety (LFS) and 22-item checklist. Fourteen items were modified from the CONSORT checklist, and an additional sub-item was proposed to address challenge trials. The REFLECT statement proposes new terminology, more consistent with common usage in livestock production, to describe study subjects. Evidence was not always available to support modification to or inclusion of an item. The use of the REFLECT statement, which addresses issues unique to livestock trials, should improve the quality of reporting and design for trials reporting production, health, and food-safety outcomes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2012.01.013
Abstract: Following the first ever equine influenza outbreak in Australia in 2007, a study was conducted involving 200 horse owners and managers to determine their perceptions about effectiveness of biosecurity measures and the factors associated with these perceptions. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with horse owners/managers to obtain information about their perceptions of the effectiveness of biosecurity practices, their sources of information about infection control during the outbreak and their horse industry involvement. Two outcome variables were created from horse owners' responses to a 17-item question on the perceived effectiveness of various recommended equine influenza biosecurity measures: (a) a binary outcome variable (Low/High biosecurity effectiveness) and (b) a continuous outcome variable (the proportion of the 17 measures considered 'very effective'). These outcomes were used in binomial logistic and linear regression analyses, respectively, to determine factors associated with perceptions of biosecurity effectiveness. Variables with a p-value <0.05 in multivariable models were retained in the final models. The majority (83%) of the 200 horse owners and managers interviewed believed that more than half of the recommended equine influenza biosecurity measures were very effective for protecting their horses from equine influenza infection in the event of a future outbreak. Interviewees that were more likely to judge on-farm biosecurity measures as effective were those who received infection control information from a veterinarian during the outbreak, did not experience equine influenza infection in their horses, and those on small acreage premises (homes with horses on site). Greater levels of preparedness for a future equine influenza outbreak and greater interest in information about infection control were associated with a better perception about effectiveness of biosecurity measures. This study identified factors associated with horse owners' and managers' perception of effectiveness of biosecurity measures. These findings should be considered in the design of infection control programs.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-03-2021
DOI: 10.3390/PATHOGENS10030375
Abstract: Emerging infectious disease (EID) events have the potential to cause devastating impacts on human, animal and environmental health. A range of tools exist which can be applied to address EID event detection, preparedness and response. Here we use a case study of rabies in Southeast Asia and Oceania to illustrate, via nearly a decade of research activities, how such tools can be systematically integrated into a framework for EID preparedness. During the past three decades, canine rabies has spread to previously free areas of Southeast Asia, threatening the rabies-free status of countries such as Timor Leste, Papua New Guinea and Australia. The program of research to address rabies preparedness in the Oceanic region has included scanning and surveillance to define the emerging nature of canine rabies within the Southeast Asia region field studies to collect information on potential reservoir species, their distribution and behaviour participatory and sociological studies to identify priorities for disease response and targeted risk assessment and disease modelling studies. Lessons learnt include the need to develop methods to collect data in remote regions, and the need to continuously evaluate and update requirements for preparedness in response to evolving drivers of emerging infectious disease.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 10-10-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-07-2021
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13107
Abstract: To report the temporal and spatial distribution of rainbow lorikeets presenting with lorikeet paralysis syndrome (LPS) and their clinicopathologic and pathologic findings, exposure to toxins, and response to treatment. Records of lorikeets admitted in 2017 and 2018 to facilities in south‐east Queensland (QLD) were reviewed and LPS and non‐LPS cases were mapped and their distribution compared. Plasma biochemistries and complete blood counts were done on 20 representative lorikeets from south‐east QLD and Grafton, New South Wales (NSW). Tissues from 28 lorikeets were examined histologically. S les were tested for pesticides (n = 19), toxic elements (n = 23), botulism (n = 15) and alcohol (n = 5). LPS occurred in warmer months. Affected lorikeets were found across south‐east QLD. Hotspots were identified in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. Lorikeets had a heterophilic leucocytosis, elevated muscle enzymes, uric acid and sodium and chloride. Specific lesions were not found. Exposure to cadmium was common in LPS and non‐LPS lorikeets. Treated lorikeets had a 60–93% See Table 2 depending on severity of signs. The primary differential diagnosis for lorikeets presenting with lower motor neuron signs during spring, summer and autumn in northern NSW and south‐east Queensland should be LPS. With supportive care, prognosis is fair to good.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 29-12-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-11-2008
DOI: 10.1007/S11259-008-9192-1
Abstract: West Nile Virus (WNV) was first detected in the Texas equine population during June 2002. Infection has since spread rapidly across the state and become endemic in the equine population. Environmental risk factors associated with equine WNV attack rates in Texas counties during the period 2002 to 2004 were investigated. Equine WNV attack rates were smoothed using an empirical Bayesian model, because of the variability among county equine populations (range 46-9,517). Risk factors investigated included hydrological features (lakes, rivers, sw s, canals and river basins), land cover (tree, mosaic, shrub, herbaceous, cultivated and artificial), elevation, climate (rainfall and temperature), and reports of WNV-positive mosquito and wild bird s les. Estimated county equine WNV attack rate was best described by the number of lakes, presence of broadleaf deciduous forest, presence of cultivated areas, location within the Brazos River watershed, WNV-positive mosquito status and average temperature. An understanding of environmental factors that increase equine WNV disease risk can be used to design and target disease control programs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2008.12.006
Abstract: We used a simulation study to assess the impact of an incursion of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) virus on the livestock industries in an 8-county area of the Panhandle region of Texas, USA. The study was conducted in a high-density livestock area, with an estimated number of cattle on-feed of approximately 1.8 million. We modified an existing stochastic, spatial simulation model to simulate 64 scenarios for planning and decision-making. Our scenarios simulated four different herd types for the index herd (company feedlot, backgrounder feedlot, large beef, backyard) and variations in three mitigation strategies (time-of-detection, vaccine availability, and surveillance during disease control). Under our assumptions about availability of resources to manage an outbreak, median epidemic lengths in the scenarios with commercial feedlot, backgrounder feedlot, large beef and backyard index herd types ranged from 28 to 52, 19 to 39, 18 to 32, and 18 to 36 days, respectively, and the average number of herds depopulated ranged from 4 to 101, 2 to 29, 1 to 15 and 1 to 18, respectively. Early detection of FMD in the index herd had the largest impact on reducing ( approximately 13-21 days) the length of epidemics and the number of herds ( approximately 5-34) depopulated. Although most predicted epidemics lasted only approximately 1-2 months, and <100 herds needed to be depopulated, large outbreaks lasting approximately 8-9 months with up to 230 herds depopulated might occur.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2012.11.036
Abstract: Although wild pig populations are known to sometimes be infected by Salmonella, the situation in Australia has received little attention and few population-based, planned studies have been conducted. Understanding the distribution of Salmonella infections within wild pig populations allows the potential hazard posed to co-grazing livestock to be assessed. We s led a remote and isolated wild pig population in northwestern Australia. Faecal and mesenteric lymph node s les were collected from 651 wild pigs at 93 locations and cultured for Salmonella. The population s led was typical of wild pig populations in tropical areas of Australia, and s ling occurred approximately halfway through the population's breeding season (38% of the 229 adult females were pregnant and 35% were lactating). Overall, the prevalence of Salmonella infection based on culture of 546 freshly collected faecal s les was 36.3% (95% CI 32.1-40.7%), and based on culture of mesenteric lymph nodes was 11.9% (95% CI, 9.4-15.0%). A total of 39 serovars (139 isolates) were identified--29 in faecal s les and 24 in lymph node s les--however neither Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium nor Salmonella Cholerasuis were isolated. There was a significant (p<0.0001) disagreement between faecal and lymph node s les with respect to Salmonella isolation, with isolation more likely from faecal s les. Prevalence differed between age classes, with piglets being less likely to be faecal-positive but more likely to be lymph node positive than adults. The distribution of faecal-positive pigs was spatially structured, with spatial clusters being identified. Study results suggest that this population of wild pigs is highly endemic for Salmonella, and that Salmonella is transmitted from older to younger pigs, perhaps associated with landscape features such as water features. This might have implications for infection of co-grazing livestock within this environment.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2013.07.003
Abstract: Reported cases of feline upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) - presumptively diagnosed as feline herpesvirus (FHV) or feline calicivirus (FCV) - throughout Australia (2010-2012) were obtained from Disease WatchDog, a companion animal disease surveillance system. This surveillance system is based on voluntary reporting of cases by veterinarians, using a web-based program. Animal factors, location and vaccination information are also reported. Cases reported were mapped and seasonal patterns were described. A total of 131 FHV cases and 120 FCV cases were reported. Excluding euthanasia, case fatality rates were 1.12% and 1.28%, respectively. The largest proportion of cases was reported in winter. Young cats (≤ 2 years), intact cats, unvaccinated cats and (for FHV) male cats appeared to be over-represented in the cases reported. The distributions of cases reported in this surveillance system provide information to aid the diagnosis of infectious feline URTD and to develop client educational programs.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-02-2020
DOI: 10.3390/ANI10020333
Abstract: Elizabethan collars are used in companion animals primarily to prevent self-trauma and associated negative welfare states in animals. However, they have been anecdotally associated with negative impacts on animal health and welfare including distress, abraded/ulcerated skin and misadventure. This study aimed to characterise the welfare impacts of Elizabethan collar use on companion dogs and cats, as reported by owners. Owners of pets who wore an Elizabethan collar during the past 12 months were surveyed about the impacts that the use of Elizabethan collars had on animal activities, in particular sleep, eating, drinking, exercise, interactions with other animals, as well as overall quality of life (QOL). The majority of 434 respondents (77.4%) reported a worse QOL score when their companion animal was wearing the collar, significantly so when the Elizabethan collar irritated their pet or impacted on their ability to drink or play. While other factors are likely to impact animal welfare during veterinary treatment that necessitates the use of Elizabethan collars, this study suggests that Elizabethan collars themselves might have negative welfare impacts in a range of domains including nutrition, environment, health, behaviour and mental state. We recommend that animal owners are informed about potential negative impacts of Elizabethan collars and harm minimisation strategies. Where possible, alternative methods of preventing self-trauma should be explored.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2012
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2017.08.019
Abstract: Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious and worldwide cause of serious and often fatal disease in dogs, despite the widespread availability of vaccines. Which vaccine-related factors are associated with vaccination failure is largely unknown, and there are no reports from Australia. In this study - the first national population-level CPV study of its kind ever conducted - we analysed data on 594 cases of apparent CPV vaccination failure reported from an Australian national surveillance system to determine whether vaccine strain, type or administration protocol are risk factors for vaccination failures. The strain of CPV used in vaccine manufacture was not significantly associated with vaccination failure in clinical practice. The vaccine type (killed versus attenuated vaccine) for puppies diagnosed with CPV was associated with a lower mean age at time of vaccination (P=0.0495). The age at administration of the last CPV vaccination a puppy received prior to presenting with disease was a significant (P=0.0334) risk factor for vaccination failure, irrespective of whether the vaccine was marketed for a 10-week or 12-week or greater vaccination finish protocol. There was also a strong negative correlation between age at last vaccination prior to disease and vaccination failure (P<0.0001): the later a puppy received this last vaccination, the lower the risk of vaccination failure. This supports the hypothesis that the use of final vaccination in puppies at less than 16 weeks of age predisposes to vaccination failure and warrants a final age for vaccination recommendation to be at least 16 weeks for all canine parvovirus vaccines, especially in outbreak situations. The large number of cases identified in this study confirms that CPV vaccination failure is occurring in Australia. Veterinarians should consider CPV as a differential diagnosis in cases with appropriate clinical presentation, regardless of the reported vaccination status of the dog.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2020
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 23-01-2018
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.12804
Abstract: Brucellosis is an important animal and human health issue in developing countries. This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with occupational Brucella infection in veterinary personnel in India. Blood s les were collected from 279 veterinary personnel working in the public sector. Sera were tested with rose bengal plate test (RBPT), standard tube agglutination test (STAT), and IgG and IgM ELISAs. Information about participant demographics, risk of exposure and infection control practices was collected using a self-completed questionnaire. The outcome measure of Brucella infection was created based on a positive RBPT or STAT test and a positive IgG ELISA test. Binomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate associations between explanatory variables and the outcome variable. Of the 279 participants, 61 (21.9%), 67 (24.0%), 55 (19.7%) and 150 (53.8%) were positive in RBPT, STAT, IgM and IgG ELISA, respectively. Compared to a trained veterinarian, veterinary pharmacists and animal handlers had greater odds of being test positive, suggesting that they were at greater risk of Brucella infection. Number of years spent working with animals was associated with greater odds of a person being positive for Brucella infection (p = .015). Counter-intuitively, those using personal protective equipment (PPE) for handling sick animals were found to be at greater risk, suggesting that either the use of PPE is inappropriate-making it ineffective-or that it is reverse association whereby those experiencing brucellosis symptoms start using PPE. Brucellosis is a common occupational zoonosis among veterinary personnel in India with the risk being higher in paraveterinary staff than veterinarians and in those who have been practicing for a longer period of time. Further investigations are required to clarify the effectiveness of PPE to reduce Brucella infection in veterinary personnel in India.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2018.09.008
Abstract: Social structure creates heterogeneity of interactions between in iduals, thus influencing infectious disease spread. The objective of this study was to describe and characterise the social structure of free-roaming dog populations in three communities in the Torres Strait, Australia. Dogs in Kubin, Saibai, and Warraber communities were collared with GPS units that recorded locations at 15 s intervals for up to 1 week, and datasets were obtained from 24 (62% of the dog population), 23 (53%) and 21 (51%) dogs in each community, respectively. An association (potential contact) between dogs was defined as proximity within a spatio-temporal window of 5 m for 30 s. Networks were constructed for each dog population: 1. nodes were in idual dogs, and 2. edges were weighted according to the duration of spatio-temporal association between pairs of dogs as a proportion of their simultaneous time monitored. Network statistics were calculated for each population and the robustness of networks to the duration of association between pairs of dogs was assessed in terms of efficiency, degree distribution and fragmentation (number of components). Dog social networks had 'small-world' structures, with characteristic clustering and low average shortest-path length between in iduals. Overall, all three networks were highly connected in terms of degree distribution and global and local efficiency, but the median tie strength (2-13.5 min) was low. Centrality and the duration of association (tie-strength) between dogs were significantly different between communities. The Kubin network was least robust to fragmentation when ties of short duration were successively removed (14 components with minimum tie strength of 2 h). In contrast, the Warraber dog network was relatively robust with 7 components at minimum tie strength of 2 h as well as high local efficiency within components. We conclude that whilst infectious disease that requires a short duration of contact for transmission is likely to spread rapidly between and within clusters in all three networks in this study, fragmentation of networks - once ties of short duration are removed - is likely to limit spread of disease that requires a longer duration of direct contact. The network information in this study is useful as a foundation for disease spread modelling and to investigate control strategies such as movement restrictions in dog populations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.VACCINE.2011.03.106
Abstract: The aim of this study was to understand the use and distribution of human rabies post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) vaccine in Bhutan and to identify risk factors for receiving an incomplete course of the vaccine. We analyzed post exposure treatment records from 28 medical hospitals from 2005 to 2008. Males (59%) accounted for significantly more PEP events than females (41%) across all age groups (P<0.001). Children - particularly 5-9 years of age - received more rabies PEP than other age groups. Animal bite and non-bite accounted for 27% (n=2239) and 16% (n=1303) of rabies PEP, respectively, whilst 57% (n=4773) of the PEP events had no recorded information about the reasons for post exposure treatment. Post exposure treatment was provided throughout the year with a higher number during the winter and spring months. The number of PEP events significantly (P<0.001) increased between 2005 and 2008, from 2800 events, respectively. Significantly (P<0.001) more PEP events were reported from the southern parts of Bhutan that are endemic for rabies or those areas in eastern Bhutan that have reported rabies outbreaks than other parts of Bhutan. Forty percent (n=3360) of the patients received an incomplete course of vaccine (<5-doses of vaccine intramuscular). Results suggest that patients with animal bite injury were less likely to receive an incomplete vaccine course than non-bite recipients, and patients presented to hospitals in rabies endemic or outbreak areas were less likely to receive an incomplete course than in non-rabies areas or rabies free areas. Similarly, patients presenting to hospitals for PEP during spring and summers months were less likely to receive an incomplete vaccine course than those during other seasons. Public education c aigns need to be conducted in Bhutan to reduce dog bite incidents and also to prevent mass exposures to rabies. A thorough assessment of each in idual case based on the WHO guidelines would reduce unnecessary PEP (and therefore costs) in Bhutan.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 08-03-2017
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 05-2015
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 20-04-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-09-2017
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12402
Abstract: To investigate public health implications of antibiotics to control post-weaning scours, we surveyed 22 commercial pig herds in southeastern Australia. Fifty faecal s les per herd were collected from pre- and post-weaned piglets. Presumptive Escherichia coli isolates were confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS. Isolates (n = 325) were screened for susceptibility to 19 veterinary antibiotics using MIC broth microdilution. All 325 E. coli isolates underwent further testing against 27 antibiotics used in human medicine and were screened for ETEC adhesin and enterotoxin genes (F4 (K88), F5 (K99), F6 (987P), F18, F41, STa, STb, Stx2e and LT) by multiplex PCR. Isolates identified as phenotypically resistant to third-generation cephalosporin (3GC) and aminoglycoside antibiotics were screened by multiplex PCR/reverse line blot to detect common β-lactam and aminoglycosides resistance genes, confirmed by sequencing. Twenty (6.1%) of the E. coli isolates were resistant to 3GC antibiotics and 24 (7.4%) to the aminoglycoside antibiotic gentamicin. Genetic analysis revealed six different extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes (blaCTX-M-1, -14, -15, -27, blaSHV-12 and blaCMY-2-like genes), four of which have not been previously reported in Australian pigs. Critically, the prevalence of 3GC resistance was higher in non-pathogenic (non-ETEC) isolates and those from clinically normal (non-diarrhoeal) s les. This highlights the importance of non-ETECE. coli as reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance genes in piglet pens. Antimicrobial resistance surveillance in pig production focused on diagnostic specimens from clinically-affected animals might be potentially misleading. We recommend that surveillance for emerging antimicrobial resistance such as to 3GC antibiotics should include clinically healthy pigs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2009.08.006
Abstract: Australia experienced a large outbreak of equine influenza in August 2007. Nearly 10000 premises were infected during the epidemic. We used spatial and temporal analytical techniques to describe the epidemic, to quantify important descriptors of the epidemic, and to generate hypotheses about how the epidemic progressed and which control tools assisted in eradication. Spatio-temporal epidemic curves revealed three phases in the epidemic: dispersal, local spread and disease fade out. Spatial dispersal of infection rapidly declined immediately after national movement restrictions were introduced. The epidemic peak had passed before emergency vaccination could have induced substantial immunity in the equine population. Thirty seven clusters of epidemiologically linked premises were delineated using an interpolated surface of date of onset of clinical signs, geographic data and location of infected premises. These clusters were analysed in idually to parameterise key epidemic measures: cumulative incidence, incidence rate, effective reproduction rate, nearest neighbour spread distances, epidemic length and the number of infected premises. These measures were summarised by landscape (rural versus peri-urban location) and standardised by disease management zone. Compared to rural areas, peri-urban areas appeared to have a higher density of equine premises (4.66 premises km(-2) versus 0.80 premises km(-2)), longer epidemics (95 days versus 87 days), more infected premises (393 versus 339) and a shorter spread distance (1.27 km versus 2.38 km). However, effective reproduction rates (2.04 versus 1.99), cumulative incidence (27.4 versus 26.9) and incidence rates (1.36 versus 1.54) were similar. The relative impact of vaccination and national movement restrictions in controlling this epidemic needs further investigation.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-05-2017
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 19-01-2023
DOI: 10.3390/ANI13030343
Abstract: There are significant welfare concerns with the use of calves in calf roping (also known as rope-and-tie) events in rodeos. However, little work has been carried out to scientifically assess calves’ behavioural responses to the stressors of these events. This study evaluated video footage of calves (n = 15) during roping events from two rodeos. An ethogram was created to assess behavioural parameters during five phases of a calf roping event: Chase, Lasso, Catch and Restraint, Leg Tie and Release. Six behavioural parameters were observed during each of the five phases: Ear position (Axial or Back Up/Down), Eye White, Leg Movement (Slow/Fast), Tail Position (Rigid/Swish/Relaxed), Vocalisation and Evasive Behaviour. The presence or absence of each behaviour during each phase of roping was documented. Chi-squared analysis found significant (p 0.001) differences in the proportions of behaviours observed in all five phases of the event. Binary logistic regression was performed, and six behaviours were observed to be significant across all phases: Evasive Behaviour (p 0.001), Vocalisation (p = 0.002) and Legs Fast (p = 0.016) were more likely to be observed in comparison to Ears Axial, which was used as a reference category. Eye White (p 0.001), Legs Slow (p 0.001) and Tail Relaxed (p 0.001) were less likely to be observed than Ears Axial. This study found that calves exhibit signs of distress in all of the phases of calf roping, including the Release phase.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 26-04-2016
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 22-02-2019
DOI: 10.1101/554451
Abstract: Canine-rabies was endemic pre-urbanisation, yet little is known about how it persists in small populations of dogs typically seen in rural and remote regions. Our objectives were to simulate rabies outbreaks in such populations (50—90 dogs) using a network-based model, and investigate the influence of rabies-induced behavioural changes. Such changes – increased bite frequency and either roaming or paralysis that increased the number or duration of contacts, respectively – were essential for disease propagation. Spread occurred in approximately 50% of model simulations and in these, a very low case rates (2.0—2.6 cases/month) over long durations (95% range 20—473 days) were predicted. Consequently, disease detection is a challenge, risking human infection and spread to other communities via dog movements. Even with 70% pre-emptive vaccination, spread occurred in % of model simulations (in these, median case rate was 1.5/month with 95% range of 15—275 days duration). We conclude that the social disruption caused by rabies-induced behavioural change is the key to explaining how rabies persists in small populations of dogs. We predict that vaccination of substantially greater than the recommended 70% of dog populations is required to prevent rabies emergence in currently free rural areas.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-07-2020
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-020-69316-0
Abstract: Community perspectives are rarely sought or integrated into dog management policy and practice. Dog management in remote communities in Australia has focused on reducing the number of dogs, which is often implemented by visiting veterinarians, despite widely-held opinions that fly-in-fly-out services provide only temporary solutions. We conducted participatory research in a group of remote communities in northern Australia to explore how dog-related problems arise and are managed, and explain their impacts from a One Health perspective. Over the course of a year, 53 residents from a range of backgrounds contributed through in-depth interviews with key community service providers, and informal semi-structured discussions with community residents. Free-roaming dogs have broader impacts on canine and human health than previously documented. Dog-keeping norms that enable free-roaming can enhance human and dog wellbeing and intra-family connectivity. This can also cause disengagement and conflict with other residents, leading to resentment and occasionally violence towards dogs. Dog-related problems are underpinned by constraints associated with remote-living, governance and differing sociocultural norms. Focusing on dog population reduction detracts from the welfare benefits and sociocultural value of free-roaming dogs and undermines community-determined management that can overcome constraints to support local values and co-promote canine and human wellbeing.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268819000475
Abstract: Salmonella enterica serovar Wangata ( S . Wangata) is an important cause of endemic salmonellosis in Australia, with human infections occurring from undefined sources. This investigation sought to examine possible environmental and zoonotic sources for human infections with S . Wangata in north-eastern New South Wales (NSW), Australia. The investigation adopted a One Health approach and was comprised of three complimentary components: a case–control study examining human risk factors environmental and animal s ling and genomic analysis of human, animal and environmental isolates. Forty-eight human S. Wangata cases were interviewed during a 6-month period from November 2016 to April 2017, together with 55 Salmonella Typhimurium ( S. Typhimurium) controls and 130 neighbourhood controls. Indirect contact with bats/flying foxes ( S . Typhimurium controls (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06–6.48)) (neighbourhood controls (aOR 8.33, 95% CI 2.58–26.83)), wild frogs (aOR 3.65, 95% CI 1.32–10.07) and wild birds (aOR 6.93, 95% CI 2.29–21.00) were statistically associated with illness in multivariable analyses. S. Wangata was detected in dog faeces, wildlife scats and a compost specimen collected from the outdoor environments of cases’ residences. In addition, S. Wangata was detected in the faeces of wild birds and sea turtles in the investigation area. Genomic analysis revealed that S. Wangata isolates were relatively clonal. Our findings suggest that S . Wangata is present in the environment and may have a reservoir in wildlife populations in north-eastern NSW. Further investigation is required to better understand the occurrence of Salmonella in wildlife groups and to identify possible transmission pathways for human infections.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268818003503
Abstract: We evaluated the performance of three serological tests – an immunoglobulin G indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA), a Rose Bengal test and a slow agglutination test (SAT) – for the diagnosis of bovine brucellosis in Bangladesh. Cattle sera ( n = 1360) sourced from Mymensingh district (MD) and a Government owned dairy farm (GF) were tested in parallel. We used a Bayesian latent class model that adjusted for the conditional dependence among the three tests and assumed constant diagnostic accuracy of the three tests in both populations. The sensitivity and specificity of the three tests varied from 84.6% to 93.7%, respectively. The true prevalences of bovine brucellosis in MD and the GF were 0.6% and 20.4%, respectively. Parallel interpretation of iELISA and SAT yielded the highest negative predictive values: 99.9% in MD and 99.6% in the GF whereas serial interpretation of both iELISA and SAT produced the highest positive predictive value (PPV): 99.9% in the GF and also high PPV (98.9%) in MD. We recommend the use of both iELISA and SAT together and serial interpretation for culling and parallel interpretation for import decisions. Removal of brucellosis positive cattle will contribute to the control of brucellosis as a public health risk in Bangladesh.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-05-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12592
Abstract: To investigate the roaming of Indigenous community dogs and potential interaction with wild dogs and dingoes. Cross-sectional survey and longitudinal follow-up study. Six remote Indigenous communities in Cape York Peninsula and Arnhem Land in northern Australia were selected. Hair s les were collected from community dogs and microsatellite DNA analyses were used to determine hybrid (>10% dingo DNA) status. Dogs were fitted with GPS collars and home range (ha) was estimated during monitoring periods of up to 3 days. In Cape York Peninsula, 6% of the 35 dogs s led were dingo hybrids, whereas in Arnhem Land 41% of the 29 dogs s led were hybrids. The median extended home range was estimated to be 4.54 ha (interquartile range, 3.40 - 7.71). Seven community dogs were identified with an estimated home range > 20 ha and home ranges included the bushland surrounding communities. No significant difference in home ranges was detected between hybrid and non-hybrid dogs. Study results provide some evidence (dingo hybridisation, bushland forays) of the potential interaction between domestic and wild dogs in northern Australia. The nature of this interaction needs further investigation to determine its role in disease transmission for ex le, in the case of a rabies incursion in this region.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-01-2012
Abstract: Disease modelling is one approach for providing new insights into wildlife disease epidemiology. This paper describes a spatio-temporal, stochastic, susceptible- exposed-infected-recovered process model that simulates the potential spread of classical swine fever through a documented, large and free living wild pig population following a simulated incursion. The study area (300 000 km 2 ) was in northern Australia. Published data on wild pig ecology from Australia, and international Classical Swine Fever data was used to parameterise the model. Sensitivity analyses revealed that herd density (best estimate 1-3 pigs km -2 ), daily herd movement distances (best estimate approximately 1 km), probability of infection transmission between herds (best estimate 0.75) and disease related herd mortality (best estimate 42%) were highly influential on epidemic size but that extraordinary movements of pigs and the yearly home range size of a pig herd were not. CSF generally established (98% of simulations) following a single point introduction. CSF spread at approximately 9 km 2 per day with low incidence rates ( 2 herds per day) in an epidemic wave along contiguous habitat for several years, before dying out (when the epidemic arrived at the end of a contiguous sub-population or at a low density wild pig area). The low incidence rate indicates that surveillance for wildlife disease epidemics caused by short lived infections will be most efficient when surveillance is based on detection and investigation of clinical events, although this may not always be practical. Epidemics could be contained and eradicated with culling (aerial shooting) or vaccination when these were adequately implemented. It was apparent that the spatial structure, ecology and behaviour of wild populations must be accounted for during disease management in wildlife. An important finding was that it may only be necessary to cull or vaccinate relatively small proportions of a population to successfully contain and eradicate some wildlife disease epidemics.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-08-2012
DOI: 10.1111/J.1863-2378.2011.01431.X
Abstract: An algorithm was developed as a tool to rapidly assess the potential for a new or emerging disease of livestock to adversely affect humans via consumption or handling of meat product, so that the risks and uncertainties can be understood and appropriate risk management and communication implemented. An algorithm describing the sequence of events from occurrence of the disease in livestock, release of the causative agent from an infected animal, contamination of fresh meat and then possible adverse effects in humans following meat handling and consumption was created. A list of questions complements the algorithm to help the assessors address the issues of concern at each step of the decision pathway. The algorithm was refined and validated through consultation with a panel of experts and a review group of animal health and food safety policy advisors via five case studies of potential emerging diseases of cattle. Tasks for model validation included describing the path taken in the algorithm and stating an outcome. Twenty-nine per cent of the 62 experts commented on the model, and one-third of those responding also completed the tasks required for model validation. The feedback from the panel of experts and the review group was used to further develop the tool and remove redundancies and ambiguities. There was agreement in the pathways and assessments for diseases in which the causative agent was well understood (for ex le, bovine pneumonia due to Mycoplasma bovis). The stated pathways and assessments of other diseases (for ex le, bovine Johne's disease) were not as consistent. The framework helps to promote objectivity by requiring questions to be answered sequentially and providing the opportunity to record consensus or differences of opinion. Areas for discussion and future investigation are highlighted by the points of ersion on the pathway taken by different assessors.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 21-01-2017
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.12615
Abstract: Using a hospital-based case-control study design, our aim was to identify risk factors for-and space-time clusters of-Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) in Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Three hundred and eighty PPR cases diagnosed between January 2005 and December 2014 at the Bangladesh Agricultural University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (BAUVTH) were selected three controls per case from BAUVTH were then selected (n = 1,048). From records, data extracted included information on date of report, location, age, breed, sex and body weight of goats. A mixed multivariable logistic regression model was built to identify risk factors. Location was included as a random effect and season and demographic variables as fixed effects. The approximate geographic coordinates of locations were collected, and the scan statistic (Bernoulli model) was used to identify space-time clusters of PPR. Compared with goats 6-12 and >12-24 months, respectively. The occurrence of PPR was also significantly higher (odds ratio [OR] 3.2 95% CI: 1.15-8.59) in the Jamunapari breed than Black Bengals. Significantly higher odds of PPR were observed in winter (OR 1.6 95% CI: 1.06-2.14) and the monsoon season (OR 1.5 95% CI: 1.04-2.11) compared with the post-monsoon season. Two significant (p < .05) space-time clusters were identified between 2 December 2006 and 6 September 2007 (two locations) and 28 November 2006 and 13 February 2007 (five locations). Peste des Petits Ruminants is endemic in Bangladesh, but also occurs as discrete outbreaks. Control efforts-such as vaccination-should focus on high-risk groups (4-24 months of age, Jamunapari breed), prior to the onset of winter and the monsoon season so as to increase immunity during high-risk periods, and focus on disease hotspots.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 16-03-2020
DOI: 10.3390/V12030320
Abstract: Multiple, epizootic outbreaks of feline panleukopenia (FPL) caused by feline parvovirus (FPV) occurred in eastern Australia between 2014 and 2018. Most affected cats were unvaccinated. We hypothesised that low population immunity was a major driver of re-emergent FPL. The aim of this study was to (i) determine the prevalence and predictors of seroprotective titres to FPV among shelter-housed and owned cats, and (ii) compare the prevalence of seroprotection between a region affected and unaffected by FPL outbreaks. FPV antibodies were detected by haemagglutination inhibition assay on sera from 523 cats and titres ≥1:40 were considered protective. Socioeconomic indices based on postcode and census data were included in the risk factor analysis. The prevalence of protective FPV antibody titres was high overall (94.3%), even though only 42% of cats were known to be vaccinated, and was not significantly different between outbreak and non-outbreak regions. On multivariable logistic regression analysis vaccinated cats were 29.94 times more likely to have protective FPV titres than cats not known to be vaccinated. Cats from postcodes of relatively less socioeconomic disadvantage were 5.93 times more likely to have protective FPV titres. The predictors identified for FPV seroprotective titres indicate targeted vaccination strategies in regions of socioeconomic disadvantage would be beneficial to increase population immunity. The critical level of vaccine coverage required to halt FPV transmission and prevent FPL outbreaks should be determined.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 10-11-2022
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14361
Abstract: Understanding the zoonotic and emerging potential of viruses is critical to prevent and control spread that can cause disease epidemics or pandemics. We developed a database using the most up-to-date information from the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (4958 virus species) and identified 1479 vertebrate virus species and their host ranges. Viral traits and host ranges were then used as predictors in generalized linear mixed models for three host-associated outcomes - confirmed zoonotic, potential zoonotic and disease emergence. We identified significant interactions between host range and viral characteristics, not previously reported, that influence the zoonotic and emergence potential of viruses. Bat- and livestock-adapted viruses posed high risk, and the risk increased substantially if these viruses were also present in other vertebrates or were not reported from invertebrates. Our model predicted 39 viruses of interest that have never been reported to have zoonotic potential (27) or to potentially become emerging human viruses (12). We conclude that nucleic acid type is important in identifying the zoonotic and emerging potential of viruses. We recommend enhanced surveillance and monitoring of these virus species identified with a zoonotic and emerging potential to mitigate disease outbreaks and future epidemics.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 27-05-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-02-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S13071-020-3943-4
Abstract: Canine heartworm disease, caused by Dirofilaria immitis , has global veterinary importance. In Australia, the prevalence of canine heartworm infection decreased markedly following the introduction of over-the-counter macrocyclic lactones. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of canine heartworm infection in at-risk populations of dogs in eastern Australia and analyse published prevalence data from Australia. In total, 566 dogs from eastern Australia were tested for the presence of D. immitis antigen. Four cohorts were studied: pig-hunting dogs from Queensland (Cohort 1, n = 104), dogs from remote New South Wales (NSW) (Cohort 2, n = 332), urban pets from rural NSW (Cohort 3, n = 45) and ex-racing Greyhounds from Sydney, NSW (Cohort 4, n = 85). Serum s les were screened for D. immitis antigen using a reference laboratory microwell-based assay (DiroChek ® ) or a point-of-care immunochromatography test kit (Anigen Rapid ® ). Risk factors associated with the odds of D. immitis antigen seropositivity were identified using binary logistic regression models. Seropositive blood s les were tested for the presence and quantity of D. immitis DNA using a species specific real-time (q)PCR assay. A metanalysis of the Australian canine heartworm literature was conducted. The prevalence of dirofilariasis in pig-hunting dogs from Queensland (Cohort 1) was 12.5% (95% CI: 6.5–18.9%), with a subpopulation of dogs from Central Queensland having a prevalence of 21% (95% CI: 12.3–33.4%). Age was significantly associated with D. immitis antigen seropositivity (increased risk with increased age). The odds of being 5 years versus ≤ 5 years was 3.7-times (95% CI: 1.1–12.5) greater in antigen positive versus antigen negative dogs. No D. immitis antigen positive dogs were detected in dogs from NSW (Cohorts 2–4). The Australian canine heartworm disease literature includes 98 peer-reviewed publications (1901–2019) with 30 studies reporting on D. immitis prevalence in dogs. Throughout the publication peak period (1980s), the primary antemortem diagnostic test was detection of microfilariae. Canine heartworm infection in dogs used for pig hunting is a previously unexplored topic in Australia. Pig-hunting dogs are infected with canine heartworm in Queensland, Australia, placing pet dogs and cats at increased risk of infection.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 09-2021
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14245
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2006.07.016
Abstract: Equine West Nile virus (WNV) encephalomyelitis cases - based on clinical signs and ELISA serology test results - reported to Texas disease control authorities during 2002 were analyzed to provide insights into the epidemiology of the disease within a previously disease-free population. The epidemic occurred between June 27 and December 17 (peaking in early October) and 1,698 cases were reported. Three distinct epidemic phases were identified, occurring mostly in southeast, northwest and then central Texas. Significant (P<0.05) disease clusters were identified in northwest and northern Texas. Most (91.1%) cases had no recent travel history, and most (68.9%) cases had not been vaccinated within the previous 12 months. One-third of cases did not survive, 71.2% of which were euthanatized. The most commonly reported presenting signs included ataxia (69%), abnormal gait (52%), muscle fasciculations (49%), depression (32%) and recumbency (28%). Vaccination status, ataxia, falling down, recumbency and lip droop best explained the risk of not surviving WNV disease. Results suggest that the peak risk period for encephalomyelitis caused by WNV may vary substantially among regions within Texas. Recumbent horses have a poor prognosis for survival. Vaccines, even if not administered sufficiently in advance of WNV infection within a district, may reduce the risk of death by at least 44%.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 26-06-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-07-2015
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12357
Abstract: The editors wish to correct an error in the Results section. On page 197, third paragraph, lines 3–5 should read: Younger dogs were significantly (P<0.001) more likely to be cases than older dogs (odds ratio 11.8 95% confidence interval 3.9–35.9). The editors sincerely apologise for this error.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-04-2016
DOI: 10.1038/SREP24173
Abstract: Schistosomiasis remains a major public health problem and causes substantial economic impact in east China, particularly along the Yangtze River Basin. Disease forecasting and surveillance can assist in the development and implementation of more effective intervention measures to control disease. In this study, we applied a Bayesian hierarchical spatio-temporal model to describe trends in schistosomiasis risk in Anhui Province, China, using annual parasitological and environmental data for the period 1997–2010. A computationally efficient approach–Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation–was used for model inference. A zero-inflated, negative binomial model best described the spatio-temporal dynamics of schistosomiasis risk. It predicted that the disease risk would generally be low and stable except for some specific, local areas during the period 2011–2014. High-risk counties were identified in the forecasting maps: three in which the risk remained high, and two in which risk would become high. The results indicated that schistosomiasis risk has been reduced to consistently low levels throughout much of this region of China however, some counties were identified in which progress in schistosomiasis control was less than satisfactory. Whilst maintaining overall control, specific interventions in the future should focus on these refractive counties as part of a strategy to eliminate schistosomiasis from this region.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2010.02.002
Abstract: Reports of congenital chondrodystrophy of unknown origin (CCUO) have been anecdotally associated with periods of drought during the gestation period of affected beef calves. Reported sporadically in the past, the incidence of CCUO has increased in south-eastern Australia and has been reported every year between 2002 and 2007. A maternal nutritional deficiency arising from poor quality pastures and supplements has been suggested as contributing to the disorder. With an increase in drought occurrence predicted by climate change models, it is possible that the incidence will increase into the future. Retrospective data collected during a case control study was used to determine if the occurrence of cases of CCUO was associated with rainfall deficiency during gestation. A total of 799 cases occurring on 46 farms in south-eastern Australia were identified and a time series of cases was created. The association of both average monthly and three-month average rainfall with cases of CCUO revealed a significant negative correlation (r=-0.29 and r=-0.37 respectively, P<0.05) five months prior to the birth of CCUO calves on the farms studied. Logistic regression analysis showed a 3.3 (CI 1.8 5.8, P<0.001) times increased risk of CCUO calves when the three-month average rainfall was in the lowest decile five months prior to the birth of calves. This information may be used to alert farmers as to when high quality supplemental feed may be provided to improve maternal nutrition and reduce the number of CCUO calves born.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2013.02.003
Abstract: In a previous premises-level case-control study of the 2007 equine influenza outbreak in Australia, the protective effect of several variables representing on-farm biosecurity practices was identified. However, using logistic regression it was not possible to definitively identify in idual effects and associations between each of the personal biosecurity measures implemented by horse premises owners and managers in the face of the outbreak. In this study we apply Bayesian network modelling to identify the complex web of associations between these variables, horse premises infection status and other premises-level covariates. We focussed this analysis primarily on the inter-relationship between the nine variables representing on-farm personal biosecurity measures (of people residing on the premises and those visiting), and all other variables from the final logistic regression model of our previous analysis. Exact structure discovery was used to identify the globally optimal model from across the landscape of all directed acyclic graphs possible for our dataset. Bootstrapping was used to adjust the model for over-fitting. Our final Bayesian graphic network model included 18 variables linked by 23 arcs, each arc analogous to a single multivariable generalised linear model, combined in a probabilistically coherent way. Amongst the personal biosecurity measures, having a footbath in place, certain practices of visitors (hand-washing, changing clothes and shoes) in contact with the horses, and the regularity of horse handling were statistically associated with premises infection status. The results of this in-depth analysis provide new insight into the complex web of direct and indirect associations between risk factors and horse premises infection status during the first 7 weeks of the 2007 equine influenza outbreak in Australia. In future outbreaks, unnecessary contact and handling of horses should be avoided, especially by those coming from off the premises. Prior to any such contact, persons handling horses should use a footbath (if present), change their clothes and shoes, and wash their hands.
Publisher: PAGEPress Publications
Date: 04-11-2015
DOI: 10.4081/GH.2015.374
Abstract: Helminth infections are believed to be common in tropical and subtropical countries. A cross-sectional study was carried out in two villages located in Guichi District in Anhui Province, the People’s Republic of China, where multiparasitism was investigated using parasitological tests. The data collected were fitted to Bayesian multi-level models to profile risk factors for helminth infections. The prevalence of em Schistosoma /em ( em S. /em ) em japonicum /em , em Ascaris /em ( em A. /em ) em lumbricoides /em and em Trichuris /em ( em T. /em ) em trichiura /em were 0.43% (range: 0-0.87% at the village level), 2.28% (range: 1.69-2.88%), and 0.21% (range: 0-0.42%), respectively. No hookworm infection was found. With regard to multiparasitism, only a 33-year-old female was found to be co-infected with em S. japonicum /em and em A. lumbricoides /em . Multiparasitism was unexpectedly rare in the study area, which contrasts with results from other studies carried out elsewhere in the country. The long-term usage of albendazole for in iduals serologically positive for schistosomiasis may be the main reason, but this needs to be confirmed by future studies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2013.02.004
Abstract: On-farm biosecurity practices have been promoted in many animal industries to protect animal populations from infections. Current approaches based on regression modelling techniques for assessing biosecurity perceptions and practices are limited for analysis of the interrelationships between multivariate data. A suitable approach, which does not require background knowledge of relationships, is provided by Bayesian network modelling. Here we apply such an approach to explore the complex interrelationships between the variables representing horse managers' perceptions of effectiveness of on-farm biosecurity practices. The dataset was derived from interviews conducted with 200 horse managers in Australia after the 2007 equine influenza outbreak. Using established computationally intensive techniques, an optimal graphical statistical model was identified whose structure was objectively determined, directly from the observed data. This methodology is directly analogous to multivariate regression (i.e. multiple response variables). First, an optimal model structure was identified using an exact (exhaustive) search algorithm, followed by pruning the selected model for over-fitting by the parametric bootstrapping approach. Perceptions about effectiveness of movement restrictions and access control were linked but were generally segregated from the perceptions about effectiveness of personal and equipment hygiene. Horse managers believing in the effectiveness of complying with movement restrictions in stopping equine influenza spread onto their premises were also more likely to believe in the effectiveness of reducing their own contact with other horses and curtailing professional visits. Similarly, the variables representing the effectiveness of disinfecting vehicles, using a disinfectant footbath, changing into clean clothes on arrival at the premises and washing hands before contact with managed horses were clustered together. In contrast, horse managers believing in the effectiveness of disinfecting vehicles (hygiene measure) were less likely to believe in the effectiveness of controlling who has access to managed horses (access control). The findings of this analysis provide new insights into the relationships between perceptions of effectiveness of different biosecurity measures. Different extension education strategies might be required for horse managers believing more strongly in the effectiveness of access control or hygiene measures.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2018.07.006
Abstract: Australia is currently canine rabies free however, the spread of rabies in eastern Indonesia poses an increasing risk to northern Australia. Domestic dogs are numerous in East Arnhem Land (EAL) and the Northern Peninsular Area (NPA), usually unrestrained and living in close relationships with humans. The response to any rabies outbreak on Australian territory will focus on dog vaccination, controlling dog movements and depopulation. A One Health approach to zoonotic disease control should seek to co-promote human and animal health, whilst also seeking to accommodate the preferences of affected communities. We report on 5 collaborative workshops and 28 semi-structured interviews conducted between January 2017 and June 2018 with: (i) EAL and NPA community members (ii) Indigenous Rangers in EAL and NPA and (iii) residents of Cairns, the local regional centre. Storyboard methodologies were used to work with participants and explore what rabies response measures they thought were justified or unacceptable, why they held these views, and what other steps they believed needed to be taken. Key findings include that the capacity of the NPA and EAL communities to contribute/adapt to a biosecurity response is limited by structural disadvantage including poor infrastructure (such as lockable premises and intact fences) and appropriate information, dominant cultural norms and food security concerns. Dogs and dingoes can have great cultural and social importance key interventions might be accommodated within cultural beliefs and long-standing norms of dog management if sufficient effort is made to adapt interventions to local contexts and community preferences. Adopting such a 'strengths-based' approach mandates that the communities at greatest risk need help to prepare for and develop strategies to manage a biosecurity response to a rabies incursion. This would include listening to in idual and community concerns and attending to the educational and infrastructural needs for supporting different groups to respond appropriately.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 05-03-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2018.02.008
Abstract: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 viruses have continuously circulated throughout much of the world since 2003, resulting in huge economic losses and major public health problems. Wild birds have played an important role in the spread of H5N1 HPAI. To understand its spatial distribution, H5N1 HPAI have been studied by many disciplines from different perspectives, but only one kind of disciplinary knowledge was involved, which has provided limited progress in understanding. Combining risk information from different disciplines based on knowledge fusion can provide more accurate and detailed information. In this study, local k function, phylogenetic tree analysis, and logistic spatial autoregressive models were used to explore the global spatial pattern of H5N1 HPAI based on outbreak data in wild birds, genetic sequences, and risk factors, respectively. On this basis, Dempster-Shafer (D-S) evidence theory was further applied to study the spatial distribution of H5N1 HPAI. We found D-S evidence theory was more robust and reliable than the other three methods, providing technical and methodological support for application to the research of other diseases. The shortest distance to wild bird migration routes, roads and railways, elevation, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), land use and land cover (LULC) and infant mortality rates (IMR) were significantly associated with the occurrence of H5N1 HPAI. The high-risk areas were mainly located in Northern and Central Europe, the eastern Mediterranean, and East and Southeast Asia. High-risk clusters were closely related to the social, economic and ecological environment of the region. Locations where the potential transmission risk remains high should be prioritized for control efforts.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-07-2013
Abstract: A growing body of work shows the benefits of applying social cognitive behavioural theory to investigate infection control and biosecurity practices. Protection motivation theory has been used to predict protective health behaviours. The theory outlines that a perception of a lack of vulnerability to a disease contributes to a reduced threat appraisal, which results in poorer motivation, and is linked to poorer compliance with advised health protective behaviours. This study, conducted following the first-ever outbreak of equine influenza in Australia in 2007, identified factors associated with horse managers’ perceived vulnerability to a future equine influenza outbreak. Of the 200 respondents, 31.9% perceived themselves to be very vulnerable, 36.6% vulnerable and 31.4% not vulnerable to a future outbreak of equine influenza. Multivariable logistic regression modelling revealed that managers involved in horse racing and those on rural horse premises perceived themselves to have low levels of vulnerability. Managers of horse premises that experienced infection in their horses in 2007 and those seeking infection control information from specific sources reported increased levels of perceived vulnerability to a future outbreak. Different groups across the horse industry perceived differing levels of vulnerability to a future outbreak. Increased vulnerability contributes to favourable infection control behaviour and hence these findings are important for understanding uptake of recommended infection control measures. Future biosecurity communication strategies should be delivered through information sources suitable for the horse racing and rural sectors.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1863-2378.2009.01311.X
Abstract: The conduct of randomized controlled trials in livestock with production, health and food-safety outcomes presents unique challenges that may not be adequately reported in trial reports. The objective of this project was to modify the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) statement to reflect the unique aspects of reporting these livestock trials. A 2-day consensus meeting was held on 18-19 November 2008 in Chicago, IL, USA, to achieve the objective. Prior to the meeting, a Web-based survey was conducted to identify issues for discussion. The 24 attendees were biostatisticians, epidemiologists, food-safety researchers, livestock-production specialists, journal editors, assistant editors and associate editors. Prior to the meeting, the attendees completed a Web-based survey indicating which CONSORT statement items may need to be modified to address unique issues for livestock trials. The consensus meeting resulted in the production of the REFLECT (Reporting Guidelines for Randomized Control Trials) statement for livestock and food safety and 22-item checklist. Fourteen items were modified from the CONSORT checklist and an additional sub-item was proposed to address challenge trials. The REFLECT statement proposes new terminology, more consistent with common usage in livestock production, to describe study subjects. Evidence was not always available to support modification to or inclusion of an item. The use of the REFLECT statement, which addresses issues unique to livestock trials, should improve the quality of reporting and design for trials reporting production, health and food-safety outcomes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2022.153043
Abstract: Wet markets sell fresh food and are a global phenomenon. They are important for food security in many regions worldwide but have come under scrutiny due to their potential role in the emergence of infectious diseases. The sale of live wildlife has been highlighted as a particular risk, and the World Health Organisation has called for the banning of live, wild-caught mammalian species in markets unless risk assessment and effective regulations are in place. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a global scoping review of peer-reviewed information about the sale of live, terrestrial wildlife in markets that are likely to sell fresh food, and collated data about the characteristics of such markets, activities involving live wildlife, the species sold, their purpose, and animal, human, and environmental health risks that were identified. Of the 56 peer-reviewed records within scope, only 25% (n = 14) focussed on disease risks the rest focused on the impact of wildlife sale on conservation. Although there were some global patterns (for ex le, the types of markets and purpose of sale of wildlife), there was wide ersity and huge epistemic uncertainty in all aspects associated with live, terrestrial wildlife sale in markets such that the feasibility of accurate assessment of the risk of emerging infectious disease associated with live wildlife trade in markets is currently limited. Given the value of both wet markets and wildlife trade and the need to support food affordability and accessibility, conservation, public health, and the social and economic aspects of livelihoods of often vulnerable people, there are major information gaps that need to be addressed to develop evidence-based policy in this environment. This review identifies these gaps and provides a foundation from which information for risk assessments can be collected.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2009.04.004
Abstract: Detection methods for Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) are imperfect, yet crucial for diagnosis of Johne's disease. Our purpose was to test for significant and biologically relevant changes in Johne's ELISA results associated with how field-collected blood s les were transported to the laboratory, prepared and stored prior to testing, while removing potential confounding by test kit and laboratory variables. Blood s les were collected from 21 cows that previously had MAP ELISA scores ranging from negative to highly positive. S les for immediate laboratory processing were subjected to different transportation temperatures (on ice, 26 degrees C) and preparation methods (serum separated, hemolyzed and serum separated, clotted whole blood), but were tested using the same ELISA kit in the same laboratory. S les for laboratory processing after one week of storage were subjected to different storage temperatures (4 degrees C, -20 degrees C) and preparation methods (serum separated, hemolyzed and serum separated, clotted whole blood), and again were tested using the same ELISA kit in the same laboratory. Finally, s les were evaluated by time to processing (one day, one week) and storage temperature (4 degrees C, -20 degrees C). Data were checked for normality and analyzed with repeated measures ANOVAs. Significantly (P=0.027) higher MAP ELISA scores were recorded for whole blood and hemolyzed s les transported at 26 degrees C than serum separated s les. S le storage for one week at -20 degrees C resulted in significantly (P<0.001) lower MAP ELISA scores, regardless of handling method, compared to s les stored at 4 degrees C for one week. Method of s le preparation, as well as transportation temperature and medium-term storage temperature, affects MAP ELISA results. Such discrepancies will inevitably result in improper classification of MAP-infected cattle, impeding both biosecurity measures on uninfected farms and MAP control programs.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 30-04-2021
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0009394
Abstract: We assessed zoonotic tuberculosis (zTB) knowledge and prevention and control practices of 404 cattle handlers via a survey in three dairy-intensive districts of Bangladesh. Most respondents were aged 30–49 (52%) and male (95%). Almost all (99%) recognized the important public health burden of tuberculosis in Bangladesh, however, most (58%) had inadequate knowledge about zTB transmission to humans. Inappropriate practices such as: not using protective equipment (98%) smoking, drinking or eating food whilst working with cattle (69%) and sharing the same premises with animals (83%) were identified. Cattle handlers educated at secondary or higher levels were 2.82- (95% CI: 1.59–5.10) and 5.15 times (95% CI: 1.74–15.20) more likely to have adequate knowledge of control and prevention activities compared to those with no formal education. Those who had reared animals for 1–5 years were 2.67 times (95% CI: 1.44–4.91) more likely to have adequate knowledge, compared to those who reared animals for years. Cattle handlers with a monthly incomes of 10,000–20,000 taka were significantly (Odds Ratio = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.14–0.92) less likely to have adequate knowledge compared to those with monthly incomes ,000 taka. Cattle handlers with high school or higher education were 6.98 times (95% CI: 2.47–19.71) more likely to use appropriate zTB control and prevention practices compared to those without formal education. Those who had reared animals for 1–5 years, 6–10 years and 11–15 years were 2.72- (95% CI: 1.42–5.24), 2.49- (95% CI: 1.29–4.77) and 2.86 times (95% CI: 1.13–7.23) more likely to apply appropriate practices compared to those who reared animals for years. Overall, education, duration of cattle rearing and monthly income predicted zTB knowledge and practices. There is an urgent need to educate those at high-risk of zTB transmission on issues including the handling of infected animals, and general hygiene. A One Health approach, to support the Sustainable Development Goals and the End TB strategy, appears to be the way forward.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2017.11.006
Abstract: In this qualitative study implemented in November 2016, we elicited narratives about fictional rabies incursions from key employees (n = 16) of the National Agriculture and Quarantine Inspection Authority in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to explore the potential circumstances and routes of entry of a rabies-infected dog, and direct rabies preparedness. Although PNG is rabies free, proximity to rabies-endemic Indonesia poses a risk of introduction and it is expected that an outbreak in PNG would have devastating human health impacts consistent with other countries with similarly low human development indices and abundant free-roaming dogs. Participants used their local and professional knowledge to create plausible narratives in response to contextual, but fictitious, newspaper stories. An ethnographic content analysis was used to extract themes and interpret the narratives. Themes were assessed in the context of their potential influence on rabies preparedness in PNG against the social and political background of PNG and relevant, published literature. Consistent themes included the ubiquity of trade and the complexity of routes between Indonesia and PNG. Dog ownership seemed pragmatic - actors in the narratives readily and rationally involved dogs in transactions in response to trade, exchange or gifting opportunities. Consequently, dogs changed ownership frequently. The findings of this study have important implications for rabies preparedness in PNG there is potential for wide geographic dissemination of rabies in dogs before outbreak detection. However, common patterns of travel - trade of dogs via Papuan towns and use of traditional trade routes - do provide opportunity for targeted surveillance and response in the event of an incursion.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 20-05-2022
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14591
Abstract: An outbreak of canine leptospirosis commenced in Sydney, Australia in 2017. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine if clusters of leptospirosis occurred during this outbreak, and if these were associated with host factors, to assist investigation of the drivers of emerging leptospirosis at this location. Within the City of Sydney local government area, 13 cases were reported during the outbreak. Administrative data on the canine population were collected and mapped. Clusters of leptospirosis cases were detected using a retrospective space-time analysis and a discrete Poisson probability statistical model. Sydney dog population registration [55.6%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 51.8-58.1%] was lower than the Australian national average (80%). The distribution of dog types, based on the United Kennel Club standards, was significantly (p < .0001) different to that of the national profile: there was a distinct preference in Sydney for companion dogs. The age distribution of dogs in Sydney did not reflect a typical right-skewed curve instead, a relatively uniform distribution was observed between the age group of 1 to 8 years. A primary disease cluster (radius 1.1 km) in the eastern area of the Sydney City Council was identified (4 cases observed between 24 May and 9 August 2019 vs. 0.10 cases expected), p = .0450. When adjusted for the age, breed type and sex distribution of the population, similar clusters were identified in the case of age-adjustment, the spatiotemporal cluster identified was larger and of longer duration (seven cases observed between 28 June and 11 November 2019 versus 0.34 cases expected), p = .0025. The presence of clusters of canine leptospirosis in the City of Sydney during this outbreak, which persisted after adjustment for demographics (age, sex, breed type), suggest that environmental factors - rather than host or pathogen factors - might be responsible for the emergence of leptospirosis. Environmental factors that potentially might be linked to this outbreak of canine leptospirosis and the clusters observed require investigation.
Publisher: Sciencedomain International
Date: 10-01-2014
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 09-09-2019
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 10-10-2018
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13022
Abstract: Canine parvovirus (CPV) is an important cause of serious and often fatal disease in dogs worldwide, however, a national survey of CPV cases in Australia has not been conducted since 1982. For this study we surveyed the entire Australian veterinary clinic population and achieved a response rate of 23.5% (534 unique veterinary clinics). Respondents reported 4,451 CPV cases in 2015 and 4,219 cases in 2016 the estimated total CPV case load across Australia was 20,661 in 2015 and 20,110 in 2016. The overall reported euthanasia rate was 41%. Geospatial analysis revealed large numbers of CPV cases in rural and remote areas of Australia. Where cases occurred in capital city areas, these were found in peri-urban areas, away from the inner city. The median cost to treat CPV cases was $A1,500 per patient. A significant difference in the cost of treating cases was found between Australian states Western Australia (median $A2,500) was the most expensive state. There was a strong correlation between cost of treatment and rate of euthanasia without treatment reflecting the important role of affordability in disease-related euthanasia. These findings highlight the considerable impact of the evolving CPV situation in Australia, particularly in regional and rural areas. This survey is the most comprehensive epidemiological investigation of canine parvoviral-related disease, to date, globally and provides a process for national disease surveillance.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 31-03-2015
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268815000588
Abstract: This study aims to describe in detail the temporal dynamics of E. coli O157 shedding and risk factors for shedding in a grass-fed beef herd. During a 9-month period, 23 beef cows were s led twice a week (58 s ling points) and E. coli O157 was enumerated from faecal s les. Isolates were screened by PCR for presence of rfb E, stx 1 and stx 2 . The prevalence per s ling day ranged from 0% to 57%. This study demonstrates that many members of the herd were concurrently shedding E. coli O157. Occurrence of rainfall ( P 0·01), feeding silage ( P 0·01) and lactating ( P 0·01) were found to be predictors of shedding. Moving cattle to a new paddock had a negative effect on shedding. This approach, based on short-interval s ling, confirms the known variability of shedding within a herd and highlights that high shedding events are rare.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-01-2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1863-2378.2008.01150.X
Abstract: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus subtype H5N1 threatens poultry production and human health. Understanding the role that migratory waterfowl play in introducing and maintaining this infection is critical to control the outbreaks. A study was conducted to determine if the occurrence of HPAI subtype H5N1 outbreaks in village poultry in Romania, 2005-2006, was associated with proximity to populations of migratory waterfowl. Reported outbreaks--which could be grouped into three epidemic phases--and migratory waterfowl sites were mapped. The migratory waterfowl site closest to each outbreak was identified. The distances between outbreaks occurring in phase 1 and 2 of the epidemic and the closest migratory waterfowl site were significantly (P<0.001) less than in phase 3, but these distances were only useful in predicting when outbreaks occurred during phase 1 (October-December, 2005) of the epidemic. A spatial lag (rho=0.408, P=0.041) model best fit the data, using distance and [distance]*[distance] as predictors (R2=0.425). The correlation between when outbreaks were predicted to occur and when they were observed to occur was 0.55 (P=0.006). Results support the hypothesis that HPAI virus subtype H5N1 infections of village poultry in Romania during the autumn of 2005 might have occurred via exposure to migratory populations of waterfowl.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2012
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 21-09-2020
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13822
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-06-2008
DOI: 10.1007/S11259-008-9064-8
Abstract: The association between highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5N1 outbreak risk in poultry in 161 Romanian villages (October 2005 to June 2006) and environmental and anthropogenic factors was investigated. Village outbreak risk was associated with a village being <5 km from a major road (odds ratio [OR] 5.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21-22.9) or a river/stream (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.06-3.72). Outbreak risk in the first part of the epidemic was associated with a village being <5 km from a major road (OR 3.31, 95% CI 1.10-9.98) or a regularly flooded land area (OR 5.08, 95% CI 1.08-23.9) whereas outbreak risk in the second part of the epidemic was associated with a village being <5 km from a river/stream (OR 5.5, 95% CI 1.69-18.9). Results suggest that both environmental and anthropogenic factors influence the risk of HPAI subtype H5N1 outbreaks in village poultry populations.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-06-2014
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12142
Abstract: Australia is unique as a populated continent in that canine rabies is exotic, with only one likely incursion in 1867. This is despite the presence of a widespread free-ranging dog population, which includes the naturalized dingo, feral domestic dogs and dingo-dog cross-breeds. To Australia's immediate north, rabies has recently spread within the Indonesian archipelago, with outbreaks occurring in historically free islands to the east including Bali, Flores, Ambon and the Tanimbar Islands. Australia depends on strict quarantine protocols to prevent importation of a rabid animal, but the risk of illegal animal movements by fishing and recreational vessels circumventing quarantine remains. Predicting where rabies will enter Australia is important, but understanding dog population dynamics and interactions, including contact rates in and around human populations, is essential for rabies preparedness. The interactions among and between Australia's large populations of wild, free-roaming and restrained domestic dogs require quantification for rabies incursions to be detected and controlled. The imminent risk of rabies breaching Australian borders makes the development of disease spread models that will assist in the deployment of cost-effective surveillance, improve preventive strategies and guide disease management protocols vitally important. Here, we critically review Australia's preparedness for rabies, discuss prevailing assumptions and models, identify knowledge deficits in free-roaming dog ecology relating to rabies maintenance and speculate on the likely consequences of endemic rabies for Australia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2019.03.013
Abstract: There is increasing scientific consensus that a One Health approach (acknowledging links between human, animal and environmental health) is the most effective way of responding to emerging infectious disease (EID) threats. However, reviews of past EID events show that successful implementation of control strategies hinge on alignment with public values. Given the limited evidence about public values in this area, we sought to understand public preferences for attributes associated with One Health strategies for EID prevention and control, using a discrete choice experiment (DCE). The DCE was conducted in 2016 using an online panel of Australian respondents aged over 18. Participants were presented with 18 pairs of scenarios describing One Health strategies and outcomes, and asked to select their preferred one. Scenarios were described by nine attributes with varying levels: personal autonomy, economic development, environmental health, community cohesion, free trade and travel, zoonotic risk, mortality, animal welfare and food security. Respondents were broadly representative of the Australian population (n = 1999, mean age 45.3 years (range 18-89) 50.7% male). The public preferred scenarios in which in idual freedoms are not restricted for the greater good unemployment is low the environment is healthy there is good community cohesion travel, imports and exports are tightly controlled there is lower mortality and incidence of disease and where animal welfare and food security are protected. Although lower morbidity and mortality were preferable, respondents were willing to accept extra cases of severe disease and deaths to avoid reductions in some attributes. However, a mixed logit model indicated significant heterogeneity. A latent class analysis suggested wide variability across respondent classes in the valuation of attributes, and the trade-offs respondents were willing to accept. Therefore, a single approach to managing EID using One Health is unlikely to be acceptable to all community members.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2014.05.018
Abstract: The aim of this study was to describe the association between landscape and climate factors and the occurrence of tick paralysis cases in dogs and cats reported by veterinarians in Australia. Data were collated based on postcode of residence of the animal and the corresponding landscape (landcover and elevation) and climate (precipitation, temperature) information was derived. During the study period (October 2010-December 2012), a total of 5560 cases (4235 [76%] canine and 1325 [24%] feline cases) were reported from 341 postcodes, mostly along the eastern seaboard of Australia and from the states of New South Wales and Queensland. Significantly more cases were reported from postcodes which contained areas of broadleaved, evergreen tree coverage (P=0.0019) broadleaved, deciduous open tree coverage (P=0.0416) and water bodies (P=0.0394). Significantly fewer tick paralysis cases were reported from postcodes which contained areas of sparse herbaceous or sparse shrub coverage (P=0.0297) and areas that were cultivated and managed (P=0.0005). No significant (P=0.6998) correlation between number of tick paralysis cases reported per postcode and elevation was found. Strong positive correlations were found between number of cases reported per postcode and the annual minimum (rSP=0.9552, P<0.0001) and maximum (rSP=0.9075 P=0.0001) precipitation. Correlations between reported tick paralysis cases and temperature variables were much weaker than for precipitation, rSP<0.23. For maximum temperature, the strongest correlation between cases was found in winter (rSP=0.1877 P=0.0005) and for minimum temperature in autumn (rSP=0.2289: P<0.0001). Study findings suggest that tick paralysis cases are more likely to occur and be reported in certain eco-climatic zones, such as those with higher rainfall and containing tree cover and areas of water. Veterinarians and pet owners in these zones should be particularly alert for tick paralysis cases to maximize the benefits of early treatment, and to be vigilant to use chemical prophylaxis to reduce the risk of tick parasitism.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 05-10-2012
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 24-05-2010
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268810001135
Abstract: We report a major outbreak of rabies in dogs and other domestic animals that occurred in eastern Bhutan between May 2005 and November 2007. The outbreak peaked in February 2006 and subsided by the end of April 2006 with sporadic cases reported until November 2007. Rabies affected 18 of the 40 sub-districts in the three eastern districts of Bhutan. There were reportedly one human and 256 domestic animal fatalities. The outbreak affected cattle ( n =141, 55%), dogs ( n =106, 41%), horses ( n =7, 3%) and cats ( n =2, 1%). Rabies was primarily diagnosed by clinical signs but 36 cases were confirmed by fluorescent antibody test of brain s les. High densities and movements of free-roaming dogs might have been responsible for the rapid spread and persistence of the infection for a longer period than expected in dogs in eastern Bhutan.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 13-09-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2005.01.019
Abstract: An outbreak of salmonellosis in a population of hospitalized horses resulted in the closure of a teaching hospital for a period of 10 weeks. Fecal s les were collected from suspected cases and cultured for Salmonella. Salmonella isolates were characterized using antimicrobial susceptibility testing, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and phage typing. Thirty-three cases of infection by a multidrug-resistant strain of S. typhimurium were detected. The index case was admitted on 26 August 1999. Fifteen (45%) cases occurred between April and June 2000. PFGE results suggested that this strain of S. typhimurium might have been introduced into the hospital environment by a foal presenting with diarrhea. The hospital was closed on June 13, and intensive environmental cleaning and disinfection were completed. Enforcement of infectious disease control protocols in hospitals and environmental and patient surveillance is needed to prevent outbreaks of salmonellosis.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.JFMS.2009.12.002
Abstract: Survey aims A questionnaire was sent to veterinarians in Australia to determine the approximate number of cats presenting for permethrin spot-on (PSO) intoxication over a 2-year period. Findings Of the 269 questionnaires returned, 255 were eligible for analysis. A total of 207 respondents (81 %) reported cases of PSO intoxication in cats over the previous 2 years. In total, 750 in idual cases were reported, with 166 deaths. While all deaths were generally attributable to intoxication, 39 cats were euthanased because owners were unable to pay the anticipated treatment costs. Brands of PSO implicated included Exelpet Flea (and Tick) Liquidator (Mars Australia) (146 respondents), Bayer Advantix (48), Purina Totalcare Flea Eliminator Line-On (19), Troy Ease-On (six) and Duogard Line-On (Virbac) (four) 67 respondents were not able to identify a specific product. Permethrin spot-on formulations were most commonly obtained from supermarkets (146 respondents), followed by pet stores (43), veterinary practices (16), and a range of other sources including produce stores and friends. The majority of intoxication cases reported involved PSOs labelled for use in dogs with specific label instructions such as ‘toxic to cats’. Owners applied these PSO products to their cats accidentally or intentionally. In some cases, exposure was through secondary contact, such as when a PSO product was applied to a dog with which a cat had direct or indirect contact. Recommendations In the authors' view, because of the likelihood of inappropriate use and toxicity in the non-labelled species, over-the-counter products intended for use in either dogs or cats must have a high margin of safety in all species. Furthermore, PSOs should only be available at points of sale where veterinary advice can be provided and appropriate warnings given. As an interim measure, modified labelling with more explicit warnings may reduce morbidity and mortality.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2010.01.015
Abstract: The United States has been free of FMD since the 1920s. Faced with an incursion of FMD virus that might involve wildlife species, it is crucial that appropriate mitigation strategies be applied rapidly to control the disease. Disease spread models can be used to evaluate the design of optimal strategies. Using a previously developed susceptible-infected-recovered geographic automata model (Sirca) to simulate the spread of FMD through white-tailed deer populations in south Texas, we conducted a series of experiments to determine how pre-emptive mitigation strategies applied to white-tailed deer populations might impact the predicted magnitude and distribution of outbreaks following FMD virus incursion. Based on previously derived deer distributions in the two ecoregions found within the study area, simulated outbreaks were evaluated by comparing the median number of deer predicted to be infected and the median area predicted affected for a baseline scenario and 3 mitigation strategies: targeted cull, random cull and targeted depopulation buffer. Substantial differences were observed in the predicted magnitude of outbreaks both by mitigation strategy and by ecoregion: depending on the ecoregion, the creation of a targeted depopulation buffer could reduce the number of deer predicted infected by up to 52%, and the area affected by up to 31%. Results suggest that the outcome of an FMD incursion that involves wildlife species, such as white-tailed deer in south Texas, might depend on both where the incursion occurs and the type of pre-emptive mitigation strategy applied.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2017.09.014
Abstract: The spread of antimicrobial resistant E. coli within the environment is a global concern. Wildlife such as feral pigs have been identified as a possible reservoir of antimicrobial resistant bacteria. A cross-sectional survey of free-ranging, feral pigs within the Kimberley region of northwestern Australia was conducted to estimate the prevalence of antimicrobial and disinfectant resistant E. coli in this population. Of the 493 faecal s les collected, 115 E. coli isolates were randomly selected and their identity confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Isolates were screened for susceptibility to 14 veterinary antimicrobials (including antimicrobials not permitted for use in Australia) using MIC broth microdilution using Sensititre™ (BOPO6F) and breakpoints according to CLSI and EUCAST guidelines. Isolates also underwent disinfectant susceptibility testing to six disinfectants at their recommended concentration for use as well as at a twofold dilution, based on methods adapted from the CLSI agar plate dilution method. A moderate prevalence of resistance was observed to sulfadimethoxine (50.4% 58/115) and florfenicol (27.0% 31/115). A low prevalence of resistance was estimated to chlortetracycline (5.2% 6/115) and multi-drug resistance was only identified in 1.7% (2/115) of E.coli isolates tested. Isolates were susceptible to five of the six disinfectants screened. Feral pigs could potentially act as a reservoir of antimicrobial resistance in the environment with possible implications for domestic livestock. The role that feral pigs might play in transmission of antimicrobial resistance requires further investigation, and the occurrence of resistance in such isolated populations needs to be considered when attempting to infer source attribution of antimicrobial resistance in livestock and human populations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-02-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1863-2378.2011.01393.X
Abstract: This study was conducted to evaluate incidence and seasonal trends of rabies in dogs and other domestic animals in Bhutan from 1996 to 2009. Time series analysis approach was used to determine the seasonal trend and temporal association between species-specific rabies cases in animals. A total of 814 rabies cases were reported during the 14-year period, of which cattle and domestic dogs accounted for 55% (447/814) and 39% (317/814) of the cases, respectively. The remaining 6% of the cases (50/814) were reported in horses (2%), cats (2%), pigs (1%) and goats (1%). Rabies cases were reported throughout the year with more reports during spring and summer months. The annual patterns of cases were stable from 1996 to 2005, but the incidence increased during 2006 and 2008. Fifty-nine of the 205 sub-districts reported rabies in animals from 1996 to 2009 with increased incidences in the four districts in southern Bhutan, an area located close to the border towns of India. A significant (P < 0.05) positive cross-correlation was observed between the number of cases in dogs and other domestic animals at time lags (months) 1-3 with the highest correlation (r = 0.94, P < 0.05) observed at time lag 0 (same month) indicating that the peak in rabies incidences occur in the same month when both dogs and other domestic animal cases are reported. Regression analysis predicted rabies in other domestic animal when there are reports of rabies in dogs during the previous months. This study provides useful information about the epidemiology of rabies that can be used to plan a rabies control programme in Bhutan.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 31-05-2019
DOI: 10.3390/V11060503
Abstract: A field study was undertaken to (i) measure the prevalence of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) exposure and FeLV infection in a cross-section of healthy Australian pet cats and (ii) investigate the outcomes following natural FeLV exposure in two Australian rescue facilities. Group 1 (n = 440) consisted of healthy client-owned cats with outdoor access, predominantly from eastern Australia. Groups 2 (n = 38) and 3 (n = 51) consisted of a mixture of healthy and sick cats, group-housed in two separate rescue facilities in Sydney, Australia, tested following identification of index cases of FeLV infection in cats sourced from these facilities. Diagnostic testing for FeLV exposure/infection included p27 antigen testing using three different point-of-care FeLV kits and a laboratory-based ELISA, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) testing to detect FeLV proviral DNA in leukocytes, real-time reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) testing to detect FeLV RNA in plasma, and neutralising antibody (NAb) testing. Cats were classified as FeLV-uninfected (FeLV-unexposed and presumptively FeLV-abortive infections) or FeLV-infected (presumptively regressive and presumptively progressive infections). In Group 1, 370 FeLV-unexposed cats (370/440, 84%), 47 abortive infections (47/440, 11%), nine regressive infections (9/440, 2%), and two progressive infections (2/440, 0.5%) were identified, and 12 FeLV-uninfected cats (12/440, 3%) were unclassifiable as FeLV-unexposed or abortive infections due to insufficient s les available for NAb testing. In Groups 2 and 3, 31 FeLV-unexposed cats (31/89, 35%), eight abortive infections (8/89, 9%), 22 regressive infections (22/89 25%), and 19 progressive infections (19/89 21%) were discovered, and nine FeLV-uninfected cats (9/89 10%) were unclassifiable due to insufficient s les available for NAb testing. One of the presumptively progressively-infected cats in Group 3 was likely a focal FeLV infection. Two other presumptively progressively-infected cats in Group 3 may have been classified as regressive infections with repeated testing, highlighting the difficulties associated with FeLV diagnosis when s ling cats at a single time point, even with results from a panel of FeLV tests. These results serve as a reminder to Australian veterinarians that the threat of FeLV to the general pet cat population remains high, thus vigilant FeLV testing, separate housing for FeLV-infected cats, and FeLV vaccination of at-risk cats is important, particularly in group-housed cats in shelters and rescue facilities, where outbreaks of FeLV infection can occur.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1017/S095026882100056X
Abstract: Rabies is endemic in Bangladesh. To identify risk factors, a case-control study was conducted based on hospital-reported rabid animal bite (RAB) cases in domestic ruminants, 2009 − 2018. RAB cases ( n = 449) and three controls per case were selected. Dogs (87.8%) and jackals (12.2%) were most often identified as biting animals. In the final multivariable model, the risk of being a RAB case was significantly higher in cattle aged .5–2 years (odds ratio (OR) 2.89 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.56–5.37), –5 years (OR 3.63 95% CI: 1.97–6.67) and years (OR 6.42 95% CI: 3.39–12.17) compared to those aged .5 years. Crossbred cattle were at higher risk of being a RAB case (OR 5.48 95% CI: 3.56–8.42) than indigenous. Similarly, female cattle were more likely to be a RAB case (OR 1.26 95% CI: 1.15–2.29) than males. Cattle in rural areas (OR 39.48 95% CI: 6.14–254.00) were at a much higher risk of being RAB cases than those in urban areas. Female, crossbred and older cattle, especially in rural areas should either be managed indoors during the dog breeding season (September and October) or vaccinated. A national rabies elimination program should prioritise rural dogs for mass vaccination. Jackals should also be immunised using oral bait vaccines. Prevention of rabies in rural dogs and jackals would also reduce rabies incidence in humans.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1002/JMV.28341
Abstract: The Omicron variant has become the dominant COVID‐19 variant worldwide due to its rapid and cryptic spread. Therefore, successful early warning is of great importance to be able to control epidemics in their early phase, before developing into large outbreaks. COVID‐19‐related Baidu search index, which reflects human behavior to a certain degree, was used to retrospectively detect the warning signs for Omicron variant outbreaks in China in 2022. The characteristics and effects of warning signs were analyzed in detail. We detected the presence of early warning signs (both high and low thresholds) and found that these occurred 4–7 days earlier than traditional epidemiological surveillance and days earlier than the implementation of the local “lockdown” policy. Compared with the “high threshold” warning, the early warning effect of the “low threshold” is also vital because it indicates a negligence about epidemic prevention and control. However, there is obvious heterogeneity in the optimal threshold for detecting early warning signs and their distribution in different cities. Multi‐source and multi‐point early warning systems should be established via combining internet‐based big data in the future to conduct effective and early real‐time warning. This would create precious time for the early control of COVID‐19 outbreaks.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 17-05-2020
DOI: 10.3390/ANI10050865
Abstract: Australia is currently free of canine rabies. Spatio-ecological knowledge about dingoes in northern Australia is currently a gap that impedes the application of disease spread models and our understanding of the potential transmission of rabies, in the event of an incursion. We therefore conducted a one-year camera trap survey to monitor a dingo population in equatorial northern Australia. The population is contiguous with remote Indigenous communities containing free-roaming dogs, which potentially interact with dingoes. Based on the camera trap data, we derived dingo density and home range size estimates using maximum-likelihood, spatially explicit, mark–resight models, described dingo movements and evaluated spatial correlation and temporal overlap in activities between dingoes and community dogs. Dingo density estimates varied from 0.135 animals/km2 (95% CI = 0.127–0.144) during the dry season to 0.147 animals/km2 (95% CI = 0.135–0.159) during the wet season. The 95% bivariate Normal home range sizes were highly variable throughout the year (7.95–29.40 km2). Spatial use and daily activity patterns of dingoes and free-roaming community dogs, grouped over ~3 month periods, showed substantial temporal activity overlap and spatial correlation, highlighting the potential risk of disease transmission at the wild–domestic interface in an area of biosecurity risk in equatorial northern Australia. Our results have utility for improving preparedness against a potential rabies incursion.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2003
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 31-12-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2015.01.019
Abstract: One Health surveillance describes the systematic collection, validation, analysis, interpretation of data and dissemination of information collected on humans, animals and the environment to inform decisions for more effective, evidence- and system-based health interventions. During the second International Conference on Animal Health Surveillance (ICAHS) in Havana, Cuba, a panel discussion was organised to discuss the relevance of One Health in the context of surveillance. A number of success stories were presented which generally focused on the obvious interfaces between human and veterinary medicine such as zoonoses and food safety. Activities aimed at strengthening inter-sectoral networking through technical collaboration, conferences, workshops and consultations have resulted in recommendations to advance the One Health concept. There are also several One Health educational programmes offered as Masters programmes. Continuing challenges to One Health surveillance were identified at both technical as well as organisational level. It was acknowledged that the public health sector and the environmental sector could be engaged more in One Health activities. Legal issues, hurdles to data sharing, unclear responsibilities and structural barriers between ministries prevent integrated action. Policy makers in the health sector often perceive One Health as a veterinary-driven initiative that is not particularly relevant to their priority problems. Whilst some funding schemes allow for the employment of scientists and technicians for research projects, the development of a sustainable One Health workforce has yet to be broadly demonstrated. Funding opportunities do not explicitly promote the development of One Health surveillance systems. In addition, organisational, legal and administrative barriers may prevent operational implementation. Strategies and communication across sectors need to be aligned. Whilst at the technical or local level the formal separation can be bridged, separate funding sources and budgets can jeopardise the overall strategy, especially if funding cuts are later required. To overcome such challenges, a strong business case for One Health surveillance is needed. This should include the costs and benefits of One Health activities or projects including consequences of different strategies as well as risks. Integrated training should also be further promoted. Future ICAHS conferences should continue to provide a platform for discussing surveillance in the One Health context and to provide a forum for surveillance professionals from all relevant sectors to interact.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 08-11-2019
DOI: 10.3390/ANI9110940
Abstract: Measures aimed at reducing the length of stay (LOS) of cats in shelters can promote animal welfare and more efficient use of resources. The extent to which variables shown to impact LOS are broadly applicable is unclear. The aim of this study was to describe a population of cats adopted from an urban shelter, and to analyze the association between potential predictor variables and LOS. A study cohort was identified retrospectively from shelter records (n = 2584), 48.8% of which were 12 weeks old at admission, and 80.7% were stray. Among 445 cats relinquished by owners, reasons for surrender were primarily owner-related (87.2%). Overall, reason for surrender and coat color were significantly associated with LOS. Hazard ratios showed that all reasons for surrender for owner-relinquished cats were associated with a shorter LOS than stray cats and this association was significant (p 0.05) for all except cat behavioral or medical reasons. In contrast to previous reports, white cats had a significantly (p 0.05) longer LOS than black cats. This study highlights an important role for shelter-specific baseline data to inform and measure the effect of interventional studies aimed at improving animal welfare by reducing LOS in shelter-housed cats
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2017-020439
Abstract: To explore and compare the knowledge, attitudes and experiences of doctors, dentists and veterinarians (as prescribers) in relation to antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance (AbR), and to consider the implications of these for policy-making that support a One Health approach. A cross-sectional survey conducted online. Doctors, dentists and veterinarians practising in primary, secondary or tertiary care in Australia. 547 doctors, 380 dentists and 403 veterinarians completed the survey. Prescribers’ knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of AbR, the extent to which a range of factors are perceived as barriers to appropriate prescribing practices, and perceived helpfulness of potential strategies to improve antibiotic prescribing in practice. There was substantial agreement across prescriber groups that action on AbR is required by multiple sectors and stakeholders. However, prescribers externalised responsibility to some extent by seeing the roles of others as more important than their own in relation to AbR. There were common and context-specific barriers to optimal prescribing across the prescriber groups. Prescriber groups generally perceived restrictive policies as unhelpful to supporting appropriate prescribing in their practice. The results have implications for implementing a One Health approach that involves doctors, dentists and veterinarians as key players to tackling the crisis of AbR. The findings are that (1) prescribers understand and are likely receptive to a One Health policy approach to AbR, (2) policy development should be sensitive to barriers that are specific to in idual prescriber groups and (3) the development and introduction of interventions that might be perceived as reducing prescriber autonomy will need to be carefully designed and implemented.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2011.07.009
Abstract: The definition of the spatial relatedness between infectious and susceptible animal groups is a fundamental component of spatio-temporal modelling of disease outbreaks. A common neighbourhood definition for disease spread in wild and feral animal populations is the distance between the centroids of neighbouring group home ranges. This distance can be used to define neighbourhood interactions, and also to describe the probability of successful disease transmission. Key limitations of this approach are (1) that a susceptible neighbour of an infectious group with an overlapping home range - but whose centroid lies outside the home range of an infectious group - will not be considered for disease transmission, and (2) the degree of overlap between the home ranges is not taken into account for those groups with centroids inside the infectious home range. We assessed the impact of both distance-based and range overlap methods of disease transmission on model-predicted disease spread. Range overlap was calculated using home ranges modelled as circles. We used the Sirca geographic automata model, with the population data from a nine-county study area in Texas that we have previously described. For each method we applied 100 model repetitions, each of 100 time steps, to 30 index locations. The results show that the rate of disease spread for the range-overlap method is clearly less than the distance-based method, with median outbreaks modelled using the latter being 1.4-1.45 times larger. However, the two methods show similar overall trends in the area infected, and the range-overlap median (48 and 120 for cattle and pigs, respectively) falls within the 5th-95th percentile range of the distance-based method (0-96 and 0-252 for cattle and pigs, respectively). These differences can be attributed to the calculation of the interaction probabilities in the two methods, with overlap weights generally resulting in lower interaction probabilities. The definition of spatial neighbourhood has important implications for models used in decision-support systems for disease preparedness and response. This research presents a first step towards more realistic representations that could be used in spatio-temporal models of disease outbreaks.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2008.03.002
Abstract: Surveillance and monitoring are important for measuring the level of disease in a population, documenting changes in prevalence over time, determining high-risk areas for implementation of control measures, eradicating disease, and documenting freedom from disease. The documentation of freedom from disease has importance for international trade and the resumption of production after an outbreak. Johne's disease (JD) is an ex le of an endemic disease of cattle that has variable prevalence related to environmental and animal-level factors. Three methods of s le collection were used to describe the prevalence and distribution of JD seropositivity in Texas. S led cattle were: (1) extensively managed herds, (2) market cattle, and (3) clinically ill cattle examined by practicing veterinarians throughout Texas. S les were evaluated for JD using a commercially available serum ELISA. Proportion of seropositive s les was compared and spatial distributions were evaluated for clustering. Difference of JD seropositivity was observed among the three s le populations suggesting that estimation of disease prevalence is dependant upon the source of s les.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-06-2016
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12457
Abstract: To determine the status and distribution of distemper in Australian dogs and ferrets. Retrospective case series. Cases were identified via a national voluntary disease reporting system, veterinarian groups and a national laboratory database. The geographic distribution, seasonal distribution, signalment and clinical presentation of cases were described using maps and frequency distributions. A total of 48 in idually affected dogs and ferrets in 27 case groups were identified, including eight confirmed case groups (> one in idual). Confirmed cases were more common in summer and on the central coast of New South Wales and southern Victoria, and occurred exclusively in young, unvaccinated dogs. For dogs there was no obvious sex predilection. A mortality rate of 100% in ferrets and up to 77% in dogs was estimated. Neurological, gastrointestinal and respiratory were the most commonly reported systems affected in dogs and ferrets. There was no evidence that any large, unreported outbreaks occurred during the study period. Continuation of vaccination against canine distemper virus is justified within Australia, particularly for younger dogs. Veterinarians should continue to consider distemper in their differential diagnosis of cases with neurological, gastrointestinal and respiratory presentation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2011.07.006
Abstract: This paper explores methods for describing the dynamics of early epidemic spread and the clustering of infected cases in space and time when an underlying contact network structure is influencing disease spread. A novel method of describing an epidemic is presented that applies social network analysis to characterise the importance of both spatial location and contact network position. This method enables the development of a model of how these clusters formed, incorporating spatial clustering and contact network topology. Based on data from the first 30 days of the 2007 equine influenza outbreak in Australia, clusters of infected premises (IPs) were identified and delineated using social network analysis to integrate contact-tracing and spatial relationships. Clusters identified by this approach were compared to those detected using the space-time scan statistic to analyse the same data. To further investigate the importance of network and spatial location in epidemic spread, kriging by date of onset of clinical signs was used to model the spatio-temporal spread without reference to underlying contact network structure. Leave-one-out cross-validation was used to derive a summary estimate of the accuracy of the kriged surface. Observations poorly explained by the kriged surface were identified, and their position within the contact network was explored to determine if they could be better explained through analysis of the underlying contact network. The contact network was found to lie at the core of a combined network model of spread, with infected horse movements connecting spatial clusters of infected premises. Kriging was imprecise in describing the pattern of spread during this early phase of the outbreak (explaining only 13% of the variation in date of onset of IPs), because early dissemination was dominated by network-based spread. Combined analysis of spatial and contact network data demonstrated that over the first 30 days of this outbreak local spread emanated outwards from the small number of infected premises in the contact network, up to a distance of around 15km. Consequently, when a contact network structure underlies epidemic spread, we recommend applying a method of spatial analysis that incorporates the network component of disease spread. Linking the spatial and network analysis of epidemics facilitates inference of the methods of disease transmission, providing a description of the sequence of spatial cluster formation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2012.09.018
Abstract: Vector-borne diseases can have substantial impacts on human and animal health, including major epidemics. West Nile virus (WNV) is of particular international importance due to its recent emergence and impact in the Western Hemisphere. Despite the presence of a sub-type of WNV (Kunjin virus, KUN) in Australia, a potential ecological niche could be occupied by an exotic strain of WNV of the North American type. This study assesses the probability an exotic strain of WNV enters Australia via an infected mosquito in an aircraft from the United States (U.S.) landing at Sydney airport, the probability it spreads to susceptible species and the impact of the resulting outbreak on human and animal health. A release, exposure and consequence assessment were conducted using expert opinion and scientific literature to parameterise the inputs for the models (OIE, 2009). Following establishment of WNV in Australia, the spatio-temporal spread of WNV was predicted over a six year period based on the Australian human and equine populations at-risk, the known distribution of other mosquito-borne flaviviruses in Australia, climatic factors, and the spread of WNV in the U.S. following it's incursion in New York City in 1999. The impact of this spread was measured as a multiplier of human and equine demographics using the U.S. incidence and case fatality rates as a reference. For an 8 month period from September to April (considering seasonal impact on mosquito activity during the coldest months in Australia and the U.S.), and assuming WNV is endemic in the U.S., the median probability an infected mosquito is introduced is 0.17, and the median number of infected mosquitoes introduced is predicted to be zero, with a 95th percentile range of one. The overall probability of a WNV outbreak (WNV released into Australia, susceptible hosts exposed and the virus spread) occurring in the human and the horse population during this time period is estimated to be 7.0×10(-6) and 3.9×10(-6), respectively. These values are largely influenced by the presence of mosquitoes in aircrafts and whether the introduced infected mosquito contacts wild birds. Results of this study suggest there is a low risk of introduction and spread of an exotic strain of WNV from the U.S via aircraft, and provides an insight into the magnitude and impact of the spread among human and horse populations. The generic framework presented could be applied to assess the potential introduction of other mosquito-borne diseases (which involve a wild bird transmission cycle) via international aircraft movements.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-05-2015
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12332
Abstract: To determine the risk factors for canine neural angiostrongylosis in dogs domiciled in Sydney, Australia geographic location, age, sex, neuter status, weight and breed were assessed. Case and matched-control dogs were selected from three veterinary clinics in Sydney. Conditional logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with disease status. A scan statistic was used to identify disease clusters. Age (young dogs) and neuter status (entire dogs) were independent risk factors for neural angiostrongylosis diagnosis, and diagnoses predominantly occurred during autumn, with some evidence of spatial clustering. Veterinarians in endemic areas should be aware of these risk factors when presented with suspect canine neural angiostrongylosis cases and also should consider advising clients of preventive treatment. Potential human health risks should be further investigated, because urban dog populations might represent a useful sentinel species for disease in humans.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2005
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 23-01-2015
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268815000011
Abstract: We compared the use of recto-anal mucosal swab (RAMS) culture and faecal culture for the detection of E. coli O157 in a mob of Merino sheep. Fifty Merino wethers and maiden ewes housed in indoor pens were s led on five occasions. We detected E coli O157 in 32% (16/50) of sheep, with weekly prevalence ranging from 4% (2/50) to 16% (8/50). Overall, 12·5% (2/16) were detected by RAMS culture only, and 37·5% (6/16) were detected by faecal culture only. The level of agreement between the two s ling methods was moderate [kappa statistic = 0·583, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·460–0·707]. The relative sensitivities of RAMS and faecal culture were 67% (95% CI 41–86) and 57% (95% CI 34–77), respectively. We identified four super-shedding sheep using direct faecal culture. Although the majority of culture-positive sheep were detected at one s ling point only, 3/4 super-shedding sheep were culture-positive at two s ling points, and 1/4 was culture-positive at four s ling points. Persistent culture positivity may indicate sheep that could be considered ‘super-shedders' at some point. The use of immunomagnetic separation further improved the rate of detection of E. coli O157, which was isolated from 1/34 animals that were previously negative by enrichment culture alone. A significant difference between s ling weeks was detected for both faecal ( P = 0·021) and RAMS ( P = 0·006), with the prevalence at the mid-point of s ling (week 4) significantly ( P 0·05) higher than at the beginning or end of the study. Study conditions (penned sheep) might have been responsible for the high prevalence and the epidemic pattern of infection observed, and could serve as a future model for studies of E. coli O157 transmission, shedding and super-shedding in sheep.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-06-2021
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13094
Abstract: To describe the incidence, morphology and clinical significance of congenital vertebral malformations (CVM) in two breeds of brachycephalic dogs presenting to a referral veterinary hospital. Prospective cohort study series. Forty‐nine French Bulldogs and Pugs were prospectively evaluated and placed in one of two groups based on whether or not they presented for neurological signs referable to spinal cord disease. A computed tomography (CT) of their entire spine was obtained and the presence and classification of CVM along with the degree of spinal kyphosis recorded for all dogs. Statistical analysis was performed to identify clinical associations between these factors (P 0.05). CVM were prevalent across both breeds with the French Bulldog having more malformations than the Pug (Kruskal–Wallis nonparametric analysis of variance, P 0.0001). Breed associated vertebral malformation subtypes included butterfly subtype in French Bulldogs (Chi‐square, P = 0.0002), and transitional subtype in Pugs (odds ratio, 22.7 P = 0.000). A new subtype, dorsal wedge, was observed in 12 cases. The presence, number and subtype of vertebral malformation were not reliable for predicting the development of neurological signs across both breeds (Chi‐square, P 0.05). However, spinal kyphosis ° calculated via Cobb angle was associated with Pugs that had neurological deficits (Chi‐square, P = 0.028). Congenital vertebral malformations largely appear to be incidental findings in this population of French Bulldogs but are of more significance in the Pug breed when spinal kyphosis is °. French Bulldogs that have spinal cord disease and CVM are more likely to have pathology distant to CVM with intervertebral disc herniation most common.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2011.03.015
Abstract: Veterinary cordon fences are used in Southern Africa to separate wildlife from domestic animals in order to prevent transmission of infectious diseases. Such fences are a control method recognized by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) for establishing disease-free zones in beef exporting countries. However, few studies have evaluated the ecological impact of these physical barriers or their effectiveness at a multispecies level. We examined the permeability of one such barrier, along 357 km of the western and southern boundary of the Kruger National Park (KNP) during 2007. Information was gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire implemented among 32 teams of fence maintenance workers. Data were analyzed to identify (a) the main causes of fence damage, (b) the seasonality, location and duration of fence repairs, (c) high permeability areas for elephant (Loxodonta africana), kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), impala (Aepyceros mel us), buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and warthog (Phacochoerus africanus), and (d) the influence of fence electrification, rivers and elephant damage on the frequency of observation of wildlife species outside the KNP estimated during the year. Human and elephant damage were the most common reasons for fence repairs. Elephant and buffalo were the most and least common large mammal species reported observed outside the KNP (1076 and 162 reports/year), respectively. Cattle incursions into the KNP were also reported in 44% of the fence sections. Electrification of the fence was an important factor explaining differences in estimated wildlife species observations outside the KNP during the year. Correlations between estimations of observed species suggested that fence gaps created by elephants might be used by the other wildlife species. Estimated annual counts of kudu, impala and buffalo, but not warthog, were found to correlate with elephant observations. Negative binomial regression models were developed to explore the relationships between observed estimations of different wildlife species outside the KNP the fence, electrification of fence sections and the presence of watercourses, suggesting that kudu, impala and buffalo could use elephant induced fence damage to leave the KNP. The questionnaire was able to evaluate fence integrity and identify sections where integrity was sub-optimal for separating wildlife from domestic livestock species. If combined with more quantitative methods and applied on a routine basis, it could provide an efficient and cost-effective method for monitoring the effectiveness of physical barriers to contain wildlife within protected areas such as is the case with veterinary cordon fences in Southern Africa.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-06-2021
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13095
Abstract: In northern Australia, wild dog populations potentially interact with domestic dogs from remote communities, which would create opportunities for disease transmission at the wild–domestic interface. An ex le is rabies, in the event of an incursion into northern Australia. However, the likelihood of such wild–domestic interactions is ambiguous. Hybridisation analyses based on 23 microsatellite DNA markers were performed on canine‐origin scats collected in bushland areas around remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Peninsula Area, Queensland. Sufficient DNA was extracted from 6 of 41 scats to assess the percentage of dingo purity. These scats most likely originated from two 'pure' domestic dogs (0% dingo purity), one hybrid (20% dingo purity) and three 'pure' dingoes (92%–98% dingo purity). The two domestic dog s les were collected in the vicinity of communities. The location of two of the dingo‐origin s les provides genetic evidence that dingoes are present in areas close to the communities. The availability of anthropogenic food resources likely creates opportunities for interactions with domestic dogs in the region. The hybrid s le demonstrates the occurrence of antecedent contacts between both populations by means of mating and supports the likelihood of a spatio‐temporal overlap at the wild–domestic interface. This represents the first genetic survey involving a wild dog population of equatorial northern Queensland, with evidence of dingo purity. Our results have implications for potential disease transmission within a priority area for biosecurity in northern Australia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2004
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2013.04.011
Abstract: Tick paralysis is a serious and potentially fatal condition of Australian companion animals induced by the paralysis ticks, Ixodes holocyclus and Ixodes cornuatus. Limited published information is available on the distribution, seasonality and risk factors for tick paralysis mortality in dogs and cats. This study describes 3479 cases of canine and feline tick paralysis in Australia using data extracted from a real-time disease surveillance program. Risk factors for mortality were identified, and maps of the distribution of cases were generated. Cluster analysis was performed using a space-time permutation scan statistic. Tick paralysis was found to be distinctly seasonal, with most cases reported during spring. Most cases were located on the eastern coast of Australia with New South Wales and Queensland accounting for the majority of reported cases. A cluster of cases was identified on the south coast of New South Wales. Dogs were found to be at significantly higher risk (P<0.05) of death if less than 6 months of age or if a toy breed. No significant risk factors for mortality were identified for cats. Some animals receiving chemoprophylactic treatment for tick infestation experienced tick paralysis during the products' period of effectiveness. There is a high risk of tick paralysis in dogs and cats on the eastern coast of Australia during the spring months. The risk factors for mortality identified can be used by veterinarians to determine prognosis in cases of canine tick paralysis and potentially to improve the treatment of cases. Daily tick searches of pets - particularly in high risk areas and during high risk periods - are recommended since the prevention of tick paralysis via chemoprophylaxis is not 100% guaranteed across the whole population.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2019.104817
Abstract: Canine Parvovirus (CPV) causes severe morbidity and mortality in dogs, particularly puppies, worldwide. Although vaccination is highly efficacious in preventing disease, cases continue to occur and vaccination failures are well documented. Maternally derived antibody interference is the leading cause of vaccination failure and age at vaccine administration is a significant risk factor for failure. However, no studies have been performed on practicing veterinarians' usage of and compliance with published vaccination guidelines and label recommendations. Likewise, there are no published studies of veterinarian perceptions on CPV occurrence and mortality and its influence on case outcome. We report a study in which all Australian small companion animal (canine and feline) veterinary hospitals were surveyed, yielding a response rate of 23.5% (534 unique veterinary hospitals). Respondents overall perceived national CPV occurrence ten-times lower (median 2000 cases) than the estimated national caseload (20,000 cases). Respondents from hospitals that did not diagnose CPV perceived national occurrence twenty-times lower (median 1000 cases) than the estimated rate (p < 0.0001). Perceived disease mortality (50%) was 2.74 times higher than that reported (18.2%). In addition, 26.7% of veterinarians reported using serological titer testing to some degree, which some practitioners use in lieu of vaccination if a titer is perceived to reflect sufficient immunity. Based on this study veterinarians appear to be aware of the disease risk in their region but unaware of the burden of CPV disease nationally, and perceive mortality risk higher than it actually is. This might lead to an overestimation of cost to treat, and over-recommendation of euthanasia. Nearly half (48.7%) of respondents recommended final puppy vaccination earlier than guidelines recommend, while 2.8% of respondents recommended a puppy re-vaccination interval longer than supported by vaccine labels and guidelines. Both of these practices may put puppies at risk of CPV infection.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2010.01.001
Abstract: The success of control programs can be improved when producers' attitudes towards these programs are positive. Implementation of control programs for chronic diseases are more challenging than those for acute diseases because of the absence of the "cues-to-action" that are associated with acute diseases. Johne's disease (JD) is a chronic diarrheal disease of ruminants, and national voluntary control programs exist in several countries. We used a mailed cross-sectional survey to describe the attitudes of producers towards biosecurity practices and veterinarians' beliefs relevant to the control of JD on beef farms. Another objective was to describe and compare the attitudes of producers and veterinarians towards specific measures recommended by the Texas Voluntary Johne's Disease Program (TVJDP) for cattle. Questionnaires were mailed to 1100 producers and 840 veterinarians in the state of Texas, USA. Two hundred and eighty-five producers (26%) and 153 veterinarians (18%) returned questionnaires for analysis. Fifty-nine percent of producers and 50% of veterinarians agreed that JD is responsible for substantial losses in beef cattle production. Sixty-four percent of veterinarians had educated producers on management strategies for the control or elimination of JD. However, only 36% had participated in the training program and 29% were certified to develop risk assessments and implement testing. Only 20% of producers reported that they were familiar with the TVJDP and 16% had considered participating in this program. There is a need for greater promotion of the control program among veterinarians and producers. Reasons for the apparent difference in opinions need to be understood to increase the likelihood of control measures adoption and to subsequently reduce the impact of JD on beef cattle operations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 05-2018
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.12846
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-02-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12562
Abstract: To estimate the home range (HR) and investigate the potential predictors for roaming of 58 dogs in four Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory. Prospective study. Global positioning system (GPS) collars were attached to the dogs for 1-4 days, recording location fixes every 1-3 min. Utilisation distributions (UDs) and extended (95% isopleth) and core (50% isopleth) HRs of dogs were determined. Potential predictors of roaming were assessed. Estimated core (median, 0.27 ha) and extended (median, 3.1 ha) HRs differed significantly (P = 0.0225 and 0.0345, respectively) between the four communities dogs in the coastal community travelled significantly (P < 0.0001) more per day than dogs in the three inland communities studied. Significant associations were found between extended HR size and sex (P = 0.0050) and sex + neuter (P = 0.0218), and between core HR size and sex (P = 0.0010), neuter status (P = 0.0255) and sex + neuter (P = 0.0025). Entire males roamed more than neutered females. The core HR of dogs with poor/fair body condition scores (BCSs) was larger than dogs with ideal/obese BCSs (P = 0.0394). Neutered male dogs also travelled more per day than entire female dogs (P = 0.0475). Roaming information can be used to inform the management of dogs in remote communities and to design disease control programs. Widespread data collection across the Northern Territory should be undertaken to further investigate the associations found in this study, considering that data were collected during relatively short periods of time in one season.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2006
DOI: 10.1038/NRMICRO1553
Abstract: Bacterial resistance to antibiotics continues to pose a serious threat to human and animal health. Given the considerable spatial and temporal heterogeneity in the distribution of resistance and the factors that affect its evolution, dissemination and persistence, we argue that antibiotic resistance must be viewed as an ecological problem. A fundamental difficulty in assessing the causal relationship between antibiotic use and resistance is the confounding influence of geography: the co-localization of resistant bacterial species with antibiotic use does not necessarily imply causation and could represent the presence of environmental conditions and factors that have independently contributed to the occurrence of resistance. Here, we show how landscape ecology, which links the biotic and abiotic factors of an ecosystem, might help to untangle the complexity of antibiotic resistance and improve the interpretation of ecological studies.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 26-06-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2007.01.009
Abstract: We investigated the potential role of feral pigs and wild deer as FMD reservoirs with a susceptible-latent-infected-recovered geographic-automata model, using spatially referenced data from southern Texas, USA. An uncontrolled FMD outbreak initiated in feral pigs and in wild deer might infect up to 698 (90% prediction interval 181, 1387) and 1557 (823, 2118) cattle and affect an area of 166 km(2) (53, 306) and 455 km(2) (301, 588), respectively. The predicted spread of FMD virus infection was influenced by assumptions we made regarding the number of incursion sites and the number of neighborhood interactions between herds. Our approach explicitly incorporates the spatial relationships between domesticated and non-domesticated animal populations, providing a new framework to explore the impacts, costs, and strategies for the control of foreign animal diseases with a potential wildlife reservoir.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-2023
DOI: 10.1111/VRU.13216
Abstract: Ruptures of pulmonary blebs and bullae are the most common cause of spontaneous pneumothorax in dogs. Incidental bullae/blebs have been documented in otherwise healthy people, however information for veterinary patients is currently lacking. Objectives of this retrospective, observer agreement, analytical study were to characterize incidental bullae in thoracic CT studies of dogs, assess interobserver variability for characterizing the bullae, and assess anesthesia risks. Inclusion criteria were dogs presenting for non‐pneumothorax related reasons that had a thoracic CT at a single specialty and emergency hospital from 2012 to 2021 and had a bulla listed in the CT report. Medical records for dogs meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed to collect data on signalment, weight, total number of general anesthesia procedures 2 years prior and 2 years following the CT scan, and adverse anesthesia events. In addition, the CT images were reviewed by three American College of Veterinary Radiology‐certified veterinary radiologists to collect data on the location, size, number of bullae and thickness of the bulla wall. A total of 1119 dogs met initial inclusion criteria and 74 dogs were included in analyses. There was no sex predilection for incidental pulmonary bullae. Bullae were more commonly found in older (median age 11.3 years), large breed dogs (median weight 20.7 kg). A solitary bulla of less than 1 cm was the most common finding with no apparent predilection for a particular lung lobe. There was strong correlation among the three radiologists for bulla location, size, and number, but weak correlations for bulla wall thickness. No adverse anesthesia events were found following CT anesthesia or following repetitive anesthesia procedures.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S40249-021-00926-0
Abstract: Since the appearance of severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a growing body of evidence has suggested that weather factors, particularly temperature and humidity, influence transmission. This relationship might differ for the recently emerged B.1.617.2 (delta) variant of SARS-CoV-2. Here we use data from an outbreak in Sydney, Australia that commenced in winter and time-series analysis to investigate the association between reported cases and temperature and relative humidity. Between 16 June and 10 September 2021, the peak of the outbreak, there were 31,662 locally-acquired cases reported in five local health districts of Sydney, Australia. The associations between daily 9:00 am and 3:00 pm temperature (°C), relative humidity (%) and their difference, and a time series of reported daily cases were assessed using univariable and multivariable generalized additive models and a 14-day exponential moving average. Akaike information criterion (AIC) and the likelihood ratio statistic were used to compare different models and determine the best fitting model. A sensitivity analysis was performed by modifying the exponential moving average. During the 87-day time-series, relative humidity ranged widely ( 30–98%) and temperatures were mild (approximately 11–17 °C). The best-fitting (AIC: 1,119.64) generalized additive model included 14-day exponential moving averages of 9:00 am temperature ( P 0.001) and 9:00 am relative humidity ( P 0.001), and the interaction between these two weather variables ( P 0.001). Humidity was negatively associated with cases no matter whether temperature was high or low. The effect of lower relative humidity on increased cases was more pronounced below relative humidity of about 70% below this threshold, not only were the effects of humidity pronounced but also the relationship between temperature and cases of the delta variant becomes apparent. We suggest that the control of COVID-19 outbreaks, specifically those due to the delta variant, is particularly challenging during periods of the year with lower relative humidity and warmer temperatures. In addition to vaccination, stronger implementation of other interventions such as mask-wearing and social distancing might need to be considered during these higher risk periods.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 11-05-2022
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14573
Abstract: African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) is a contagious pathogen that can cause severe acute haemorrhagic fever in pigs. The first occurrence of an ASF outbreak in Asia was reported in China in August 2018. The devastating impacts caused by ASF on the pig industry have strongly focused research on risk factors for the spread of ASFV. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify the potential knowledge gap in the English literature on risk factors for the spread of ASFV in outbreaks that occurred in China, 2018-2020. China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) was searched as the primary database. Sixty-four records were screened, and 31 (48%) records were included in data extraction. These records were also assessed for quality of evidence. Frequency tables for reported risks were created, considering quality of evidence. A narrative summary of mortality rate and case fatality rate reported in a small number of records was made. Mortality rate was reported in seven studies, ranging from 3.7% to 84.0% (median 11.9%). Case fatality rate was reported in six studies, ranging from 20.6% to 100% (median 63.3%). Based on 31 reviewed records, live pig transport, swill feeding and vehicles were the three most important risks for spread contributing to the ASF epidemic in China. Bites of infected Ornithodoros ticks was stated in 12 low level of evidence records but only 1 high level of evidence record as a risk factor for transmission. Direct contact with wild pigs was reported to be a risk factor in 8 records with low level of evidence, and 1 record from the high level of evidence group. However, limited evidence was provided to support the tick-domestic pig or wild pig-domestic pig transmission routes in China. Lack of resources to obtain veterinary assistance and to improve husbandry and biosecurity was mentioned four times in the 31 records, especially in remote rural areas. In conclusion, to effectively control the spread of ASF, it is very important to reduce mechanical dissemination of ASFV by vehicles and live pig transport involved in the production cycle and to ensure that transported pigs are always subject to inspection and quarantine. Additionally, despite strict implementation of prohibition on swill feeding often being impractical or nearly impossible, ensuring the safety of pig feed can greatly contribute to disease prevention. Improvement in biosecurity management, specifically environment disinfection, carcass disposal, and decontamination of vehicles and personnel will be most effective in reducing the risk of infection in small-scale pig farms.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 26-01-2022
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14452
Abstract: Classical swine fever (CSF) is a viral disease that causes enormous economic losses in the swine industry in endemic countries including China. The aims of the current study were to describe the spatial distribution of annual CSF reports in China from 2005 to 2018, identify spatiotemporal clusters of annual CSF reports during this time period and to investigate the correlations between climate factors (rainfall, wind speed, temperature, vapour pressure and relative humidity) and the occurrence of CSF outbreaks. The strongest (Moran's index > 0.19), significant (p < .05) spatial clustering of reported outbreaks was observed during the first 4 years of the study period. This clustering was apparent in the four southern provinces of Guizhou, Guangxi, Guangdong and Yunnan. Five of the six significant (p ≤ .0001) spatiotemporal clusters occurred during the period 2005-2012. These were widely dispersed, with four clusters persisting for only 1 or 2 years, whereas two clusters (Jiangxi and Yunnan) persisted for 8 and 7 years, respectively. As a result of implementation of a national animal disease control plan and increasing coverage of vaccination, CSF outbreaks in China have generally been controlled and reduced, becoming sporadic in most provinces by 2018. We also confirmed that low relative humidity and high wind speed were significant weather variables associated with the occurrence of CSF. Furthermore, our study has confirmed that CSF is still endemic in some Chinese provinces, and we recommend that the national CSF control protocol be updated and standardized.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2010.01.008
Abstract: This cross-sectional telephone survey explored companion animal attachment and knowledge as well as cat care of residents in a small Texas town. The survey included 441 residents of randomly selected households (55% response rate). Dogs were owned by 48% of households and cats by 29%. Companion animal ownership was associated with being 25-44 years old, being Anglo, having an income over $85,000/year, and feeding unowned cats. More knowledge about animals was associated with being any age except 45-54 years old and with completing college or an advanced degree. Higher attachment was associated with being a woman and having no children in the household. Attachment and knowledge were not related to ethnicity. Cats were likely to be sterilized if they had been owned more than 2 years and had been rabies vaccinated. Outside-only cats were used to control vermin ("mousers") and were less likely to have visited a veterinarian. Cats with identification were likely to be from a shelter, frequently have visited the veterinarian, and been vaccinated against rabies. There are many companion animal owners who still do not have basic knowledge to prevent accidental litters or provide basic health care. Attachment scores for companion animal owners were similar to those previously reported and similar for cat and dog owners. A pattern of better care emerges for owners who view their cats as companions.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 28-12-2014
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.12046
Abstract: Rapid, evidence-based decision-making is critical during a disease outbreak response however, compliance by stakeholders is necessary to ensure that such decisions are effective - especially if the response depends on voluntary action. This mixed method study evaluated technical policy decision-making processes during the 2007 outbreak of equine influenza in Australia by identifying and analysing the stakeholder network involved and the factors driving policy decision-making. The study started with a review of the outbreak literature and published policy documents. This identified six policy issues regarding policy modifications or differing interpretations by different state agencies. Data on factors influencing the decision-making process for these six issues and on stakeholder interaction were collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 24 in iduals representing 12 industry and government organizations. Quantitative data were analysed using social network analysis. Qualitative data were coded and patterns matched to test a pre-determined general theory using a method called theory-oriented process-tracing. Results revealed that technical policy decisions were framed by social, political, financial, strategic and operational considerations. Industry stakeholders had influence through formal pre-existing channels, yet specific gaps in stakeholder interaction were overcome by reactive alliances formed during the outbreak response but outside the established system. Overall, the crisis management system and response were seen as positive, and 75-100% of in iduals interviewed were supportive of, had interest in and considered the outcome as good for the majority of policy decisions, yet only 46-75% of those interviewed considered that they had influence on these decisions. Training to increase awareness and knowledge of emergency animal diseases (EADs) and response systems will improve stakeholder participation in emergency disease management and preparedness for future EAD incursions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2007.12.017
Abstract: The repeatability of a telephone questionnaire on cat-ownership patterns, demographics and attitudes towards homeless cats in a community was evaluated. Randomly selected households (n=100) within Caldwell, Texas, were included in the study. The response percentage was 84% (100/119) among those contacted and 75% (100/134) among all eligible respondents. Repeatability was measured by administering the same survey twice to the first 100 responding subjects, with an average (range) of 48 (25-64) days between interviews. The survey was initially administered from 6 June to 28 June 2005 and the follow-up survey was administered from 19 July to 11 August 2005. Repeatability for most cat-ownership characteristics was fair to good between the two interviews (kappa 0.47-0.82). Knowledge of companion animals and subject attachment to pet questions had good correlations between the two interviews (rsp 0.52 and 0.60, respectively). Subject-demographic questions had excellent repeatability (kappa 0.66-1.00).
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 07-01-2013
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.12044
Abstract: Early disease detection and efficient methods of proving disease freedom can substantially improve the response to incursions of important transboundary animal diseases in previously free regions. We used a spatially explicit, stochastic disease spread model to simulate the spread of classical swine fever in wild pigs in a remote region of northern Australia and to assess the performance of disease surveillance strategies to detect infection at different time points and to delineate the size of the resulting outbreak. Although disease would likely be detected, simple random s ling was suboptimal. Radial and leapfrog s ling improved the effectiveness of surveillance at various stages of the simulated disease incursion. This work indicates that at earlier stages, radial s ling can reduce epidemic length and achieve faster outbreak delineation and control, but at later stages leapfrog s ling will outperform radial s ling in relation to supporting faster disease control with a less-extensive outbreak area. Due to the complexity of wildlife population dynamics and group behaviour, a targeted approach to surveillance needs to be implemented for the efficient use of resources and time. Using a more situation-based surveillance approach and accounting for disease distribution and the time period over which an epidemic has occurred is the best way to approach the selection of an appropriate surveillance strategy.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 16-04-2015
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268815000801
Abstract: Disease prioritization is motivated by the need to ensure that limited resources are targeted at the most important problems to achieve the greatest benefit in improving and maintaining human and animal health. Studies have prioritized a range of disease types, for ex le, zoonotic and foodborne diseases, using a range of criteria that describe potential disease impacts. This review describes the progression of disease prioritization methodology from ad hoc techniques to decision science methods (including multi-criteria decision analysis, conjoint analysis and probabilistic inversion), and describes how these methods aid defensible resource allocation. We discuss decision science in the context of disease prioritization to then review the development of disease prioritization studies. Structuring the prioritization and assessing decision-makers' preferences through value trade-offs between criteria within the decision context are identified as key factors that ensure transparency and reproducibility. Future directions for disease prioritization include the development of validation techniques, guidelines for model selection and neuroeconomics to gain a deeper understanding of decision-making.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-06-2016
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12284
Abstract: The proximity of Papua New Guinea (PNG) to canine rabies-endemic countries in South-East Asia presents a risk of incursion of this disease into PNG and the rest of the Oceanic region. The objective of this study was to identify the highest risk routes for entry of dogs - associated with movement of people - into PNG from canine rabies-endemic countries. A structured, in-country expert-elicitation workshop was used, and 20 entry routes were identified. The highest risk routes were three land routes from Papua, Indonesia (hunters, traditional border crossers and unregulated, unchecked 'shopper-crossers') and two sea routes (fishing and logging). These results will be used to direct more detailed risk assessments to develop surveillance strategies and incursion response plans.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 30-09-2022
DOI: 10.3390/V14102177
Abstract: Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection in experimentally infected domestic cats produces characteristic clinical manifestations including hematological changes, neurological disease, neoplasia (most notably lymphoma) and lymphopenia-mediated immunodeficiency predisposing cats to a range of secondary infections. Conflicting reports exist, however, with regard to disease associations and survival time in naturally FIV-infected cats. The purpose of this retrospective case–control study was to investigate the effect of natural FIV infection on hematological, blood biochemical and urinalysis parameters and survival time in three cohorts of pet cats in Australia. Cohorts 1 and 2 were recruited from a large veterinary hospital in Melbourne, Victoria (n = 525 and 282), while a third cohort consisted of cats recruited from around Australia as part of a FIV field vaccine efficacy trial (n = 425). FIV-infected cats in cohorts 1, 2 and 3 were found to have 15/37 (41%), 13/39 (33%) and 2/13 (15%) clinicopathological parameters significantly different to FIV-uninfected cats, respectively. Two changes in FIV-infected cats in cohort 1, hypochromia (low hemoglobin) and hyperglobulinemia, were outside the supplied reference intervals and should serve as diagnostic triggers for FIV testing. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis of cats in cohorts 1 and 2 combined did not find any difference between FIV-infected and FIV-uninfected cats, however a confounding factor was a large euthanasia rate within the first 12 months in both groups. Three significant (p 0.05) spatial clusters of FIV infection were identified in Melbourne. A possible relationship between FIV infection status and socioeconomic disadvantage was discovered, based on three government indices of socioeconomic status (p 0.001). Until longitudinal field studies are performed in Australia to further investigate the long-term effects of natural FIV infection, Australian veterinarians should consider FIV to be an important infection of pet cats, and recommend measures to prevent FIV infection.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-08-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41467-021-25120-6
Abstract: Nationwide prospective surveillance of all-age patients with acute respiratory infections was conducted in China between 2009‒2019. Here we report the etiological and epidemiological features of the 231,107 eligible patients enrolled in this analysis. Children years old and school-age children have the highest viral positivity rate (46.9%) and bacterial positivity rate (30.9%). Influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus and human rhinovirus are the three leading viral pathogens with proportions of 28.5%, 16.8% and 16.7%, and Streptococcus pneumoniae , Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Klebsiella pneumoniae are the three leading bacterial pathogens (29.9%, 18.6% and 15.8%). Negative interactions between viruses and positive interactions between viral and bacterial pathogens are common. A Join-Point analysis reveals the age-specific positivity rate and how this varied for in idual pathogens. These data indicate that differential priorities for diagnosis, prevention and control should be highlighted in terms of acute respiratory tract infection patients’ demography, geographic locations and season of illness in China.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2014.11.005
Abstract: The continued spread of rabies in Indonesia poses a risk to human and animal populations in the remaining free islands, as well as the neighbouring rabies-free countries of Timor Leste, Papua New Guinea and Australia. Here we describe the development of a generic risk assessment tool which can be used to rapidly determine the vulnerability of rabies-free islands, so that scarce resources can be targeted to surveillance activities and the sensitivity of surveillance systems increased. The tool was developed by integrating information on the historical spread of rabies, anthropological studies, and the opinions of local animal health experts. The resulting tool is based on eight critical parameters that can be estimated from the literature, expert opinion, observational studies and information generated from routine surveillance. In the case study presented, results generated by this tool were most sensitive to the probability that dogs are present on private and fishing boats and it was predicted that rabies-infection (one infected case) might occur in a rabies-free island (upper 95% prediction interval) with a volume of 1000 boats movements. With 25,000 boat movements, the median of the probability distribution would be equal to one infected case, with an upper 95% prediction interval of six infected cases. This tool could also be used at the national-level to guide control and eradication plans. An initial recommendation from this study is to develop a surveillance programme to determine the likelihood that boats transport dogs, for ex le by port surveillance or regularly conducted surveys of fisherman and passenger ferries. However, the illegal nature of dog transportation from rabies-infected to rabies-free islands is a challenge for developing such surveillance.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 26-11-2010
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268810002682
Abstract: We report a molecular epidemiological study of rabies virus (RABV) strains circulating in animal populations in Bhutan, and investigate potential origins of these viruses. Twenty-three RABV isolates originating from dogs and other domestic animals were characterized by sequencing the partial nucleoprotein (N) gene (395 bp). Phylogenetic analysis was conducted and the Bhutanese isolates were compared with rabies viruses originating from other parts of the world. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Bhutanese isolates were highly similar and were closely related to Indian strains and South Asian Arctic-like-1 viruses. Our study suggests that the rabies viruses spreading in southern parts of Bhutan have originated from a common ancestor, perhaps from the Indian virus strain.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 12-02-2021
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0009124
Abstract: Australia, home to the iconic dingo, is currently free from canine rabies. However northern Australia, including Indigenous communities with large free-roaming domestic dog populations, is at increased risk of rabies incursion from nearby Indonesia. We developed a novel agent-based stochastic spatial rabies spread model to evaluate the potential spread of rabies within the dingo population of the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) region of northern Australia. The model incorporated spatio-temporal features specific to this host-environment system, including landscape heterogeneity, demographic fluctuations, dispersal movements and dingo ecological parameters—such as home range size and density—derived from NPA field studies. Rabies spread between dingo packs in nearly 60% of simulations. In such situations rabies would affect a median of 22 dingoes (approximately 14% of the population 2.5–97.5 percentiles: 2–101 dingoes) within the study area which covered 1,131 km 2 , and spread 0.52 km/week for 191 days. Larger outbreaks occurred in scenarios in which an incursion was introduced during the dry season (vs. wet season), and close to communities (vs. areas with high risk of interaction between dingoes and hunting community dogs). Sensitivity analyses revealed that home range size and duration of infectious clinical period contributed most to the variance of outputs. Although conditions in the NPA would most likely not support a sustained propagation of the disease in the dingo population, due to the predicted number of infected dingoes following a rabies incursion and the proximity of Indigenous communities to dingo habitat, we conclude that the risk for human transmission could be substantial.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 06-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14040
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2014.07.001
Abstract: The fecal shedding and super-shedding of the human pathogen Escherichia coli O157 by cattle has been the focus of many previous studies with varied results observed. The heterogeneity of shedding is becoming more accepted, both in the numbers of animals shedding and the levels at which animals shed. To clarify patterns in shedding and super-shedding we undertook a longitudinal study to investigate shedding within a cohort of replacement dairy heifers. The cohort of 52 heifers was s led 18 times at approximately weekly intervals with no significant changes in management during the s ling period. An overall prevalence of 44.3% (412/930 s les) was detected with prevalence ranging from 9.6 to 94.3% at in idual s ling points. Each of the 52 heifers yielded at least one s le which was detected positive for E. coli O157. Super-shedding was detected at a s le level of 3.6% (32/893) and ranged between 0 and 9.6% at each s ling point. Of the 52 heifers, 24 (46.2%) were detected to be super-shedding at some point during the study, 19 of which were detected as super-shedding at only one point. From our findings we conclude that super-shedding is not associated with a small subset of animals that shed at high levels continually as had been proposed by earlier studies. We propose that the term 'super-shedding event' as opposed to 'super-shedding animal' better describes the nature of shedding.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2003
DOI: 10.1016/S0300-483X(03)00133-1
Abstract: A comparative study of vitamin K(1) 2,3-epoxide reductase (VKOR) activity in vitro was conducted across species. The apparent kinetic constants K(m app), V(max), and Cl(int app) were determined in bovine, canine, equine, human, murine, ovine, porcine, and rat hepatic microsomes. In addition to these enzyme kinetic constants, the IC(50) of warfarin for VKOR was determined in human, murine, porcine, and rat hepatic microsomes. Interspecies differences were observed when comparing the K(m app) (range, 2.41-6.46 microM), V(max) (range, 19.5-85.7 nmol/mg/min), and Cl(int app) (range, 8.2-18.4 ml/mg/min) values. Comparison of the IC(50) values of warfarin, across the four species tested, revealed a significant species difference between murine microsomes (0.17 microM) and rat microsomes (0.07 microM). Overall, this study indicates that there are interspecies differences regarding the in vitro reduction of vitamin K(1) 2,3-epoxide by the warfarin-sensitive enzyme vitamin K(1) 2,3-epoxide reductase. Significant differences between the IC(50) values of murine and rat microsomes suggest differences in the susceptibility of these species to warfarin.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 22-11-2018
Abstract: The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive assessment of feline infectious upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) and disease (URTD) in Australian cats. Laboratory data demonstrating URTI from feline URTD multiplex PCR panel (feline herpesvirus 1 [FHV-1], feline calicivirus [FCV], Bordetella bronchiseptica, Chlamydophila felis, Mycoplasma felis and H1N1 influenza) submissions in Australia (2013–2015) were obtained. For comparison, reports of feline URTD during the same time period were sourced from a voluntary companion animal disease surveillance system. A total of 3126 s les were submitted for testing 1533 (49%) were positive. Of these, the most commonly detected agents were M felis (21.5%) and FCV (16.0%) alone, followed by FCV and M felis (13.4%) together as a respiratory infection complex, then FHV-1 (7.0%) alone. During the study period, there were 262 reports of 320 clinical feline URTD cases. Most cases (69%) were reported from New South Wales, year of age (41%) and equally distributed between the sexes. Infection was more common in entire cats (69%) and most cases (55%) involved domestic shorthair cats. Of the 90 reports that had a known vaccination status, 63 had a vaccination history, 40 of which were recently vaccinated. Most (72%) feline URTD cases recovered from clinical disease. Both feline URTI and URTD were more common during winter months. Feline URTI and URTD cause substantial impact in Australia, being most commonly associated with M felis and FCV infection. This information can be used by veterinarians to educate clients about prevention and management of this important infectious disease of cats.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.TTBDIS.2019.101305
Abstract: The brown dog tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille, 1806) is the most widely distributed tick species globally. Throughout the world there are at least two ergent lineages on dogs that are traditionally grouped into what was known as R. sanguineus. The species R. sanguineus was recently redescribed using a neotype reported from countries with a temperate climate. The second lineage distributed in countries with primarily tropical climates is currently designated R. sanguineus s.l. tropical lineage. Here, we present a comprehensive genetic evaluation of Australian brown dog ticks from across the continent that complements the morphological study of R. sanguineus sensu Roberts (1965). A total of 294 ticks were collected from dogs around Australia - including New South Wales, Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia - for morphological identification. All ticks were morphologically identified as R. sanguineus sensu Roberts (1965). DNA was isolated from a single leg from morphologically characterised in iduals from New South Wales (n = 14), Queensland (n = 18), Northern Territory (n = 7) and Western Australia (n = 13), together with ticks from Fiji (n = 1) and the Seychelles (n = 1) for comparison with Australian ticks. The study revealed three cox1 haplotypes clustered only with R. sanguineus s.l. tropical lineage'. An updated distribution of R. sanguineus sensu Roberts (1965) is compared to the 1965 distribution. In the Australian context, R. sanguineus s.l. has appeared in north-western New South Wales but remains absent from coastal New South Wales. Despite both temperate and tropical climates being present in Australia, only R. sanguineus s.l. tropical lineage was found. The evidence does not support the presence of the strictly defined brown dog tick, R. sanguineus by Nava et al. (2018) in Australia, because the examined ticks are genetically and morphologically distinct. We recommend using the term brown dog tick, R. sanguineus sensu Roberts (1965) for specimens from Australia.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 28-02-2020
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 07-02-2021
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13993
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-04-2017
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 06-2020
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13631
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 19-06-2020
DOI: 10.3390/ANI10061061
Abstract: Dogs are important companions to people but can also present challenges to health and safety of communities if their populations are not effectively managed. Dog population management (DPM) is often undertaken by in idual dog owners however, some communities require additional DPM interventions, especially when veterinary services are unavailable or underutilised. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a DPM intervention conducted in 13 communities between September 2016 and November 2019 and assessed the utility of routinely collected data—program metrics and secondary data collected by local governments—to measure indicators of impacts. The intervention resulted in significant increases in the proportion of dogs presenting that were microchipped and surgically sterilised in participating communities. The intervention also resulted in significant reductions in dog attack incidents and euthanasia of dogs in council pounds in communities that participated for three or more years. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of DPM interventions is critical to determine if impacts are being achieved. This study demonstrates the potential benefits of a DPM intervention for community safety and dog welfare and highlights the utility of routinely collected data. We also suggest benchmarks for indicators of community engagement to guide planning and monitoring of similar interventions.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 11-2022
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14726
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-03-2017
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 13-02-2009
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTATROPICA.2015.12.014
Abstract: Classical swine fever has been negatively impacting pig production in Nusa Tenggara Timur province in eastern Indonesia since its introduction in the 1990s, with live market trade contributing to disease spread. To understand market trader knowledge and practices regarding pig management, biosecurity, pig movements and pig health (specifically CSF), a repeated survey was conducted with pig sellers and pig buyers at 9 market sites across West Timor and the islands of Flores and Sumba. A total of 292 sellers and 281 buyers were interviewed in 2009 during two periods (rounds), a high-demand month (September) and a low-demand month (November). Information was collected via questionnaire. The majority of traders were male (sellers: 89% buyers: 87%) with the highest level of completed education being primary school (sellers: 48% buyers: 41%). The primary occupation of most respondents was farming: 90% of sellers and 87% of buyers were smallholder pig farmers and tended to sell their own home-raised pigs at market (52%). Pigs were sold for monetary gain either for primary (52%) or extra income (44%). Markets tended to be selected based on a good reputation (62%), a location close to residence (62%) and having the desired pig type (59%). Pig sales through markets were reported to be highest from August to October with 31% of sellers trading pigs at two or more markets. Prices at market were significantly higher on Sumba compared to West Timor and cross-bred pigs were significantly more expensive than indigenous pigs. Understanding of CSF and biosecurity was limited: 85% of sellers and 83% of buyers had no prior knowledge of CSF. Fifty-four percent of sellers reported no use of any biosecurity practices at market. Most respondents (88%) were able to recognise at least one clinical sign of a sick pig. Informal pig movements were also identified: 18% of pig buyers purchased pigs directly from other farmers. This study has provided baseline information on market trader activities at live pig markets in NTT that can contribute to the formation of sustainable strategies for improving pig health. Since NTT is the poorest province in Indonesia and pigs play a vital socioeconomic role in this province, market management and farmer education is needed to improve the pig market chain and contribute to socioeconomic development.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 25-08-2016
Abstract: Here, we report the first draft genome sequence of Enterococcus thailandicus isolated from the feces of feedlot cattle in Southern Alberta.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 16-02-2017
DOI: 10.1017/S095026881700022X
Abstract: In many regions of the world domestic dogs are free roaming and live in close relationship with humans. These free-roaming domestic dogs (FRDD) can cause public health problems such as dog bites and transmission of infectious diseases. To effectively control diseases transmitted by FRDD, knowledge on the dogs’ behaviour is required. To identify predictors of home range (HR) size, we collected global positioning system data from 135 FRDD living in eight Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Northern Australia. The core HR size ranged from 0·17 to 2·33 ha and the extended HR size from 0·86 to 40·46 ha. Using a linear mixed effect model with a Restricted Maximum Likelihood approach, the dog's sex and reproductive status were identified as predictors of roaming. Non-castrated males had the largest HRs, followed by neutered females. Also, FRDDs were found to roam further during the pre- than the post-wet season. These findings have implications for infectious disease spread. Identification of risk groups for disease spread within a population allows for more targeted disease response and surveillance. Further investigation of predictors of roaming in other FRDD populations worldwide would increase the external validity of such studies.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 12-07-2022
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0262978
Abstract: The study was aimed to estimate the true prevalence of human tuberculosis (TB) identify risk factors and clinical symptoms of TB and detect rif icin (RIF) sensitivity in three study areas of Bangladesh. The cross-sectional study was conducted in three Bangladesh districts during 2018. Potential risk factors, clinical symptoms, and comorbidities were collected from 684 TB suspects. Sputum specimens were examined by LED microscopy. TB hierarchical true prevalence, risk factors and clinical symptoms were estimated and identified using a Bayesian analysis framework. Rif icin sensitivity of M . tuberculosis (MTB) was detected by GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay. The median TB true prevalence was 14.2% (3.8 34.5). Although overall clustering of prevalence was not found, several DOTS centers were identified with high prevalence (22.3% to 43.7%). Risk factors for TB identified (odds ratio) were age ( 25 to 45 years 2.67 (1.09 6.99), 45 to 60 years 3.43 (1.38 9.19) and in iduals in families/neighborhoods where a TB patient(s) has (ve) already been present (12.31 (6.79 22.60)). Fatigue, night sweat, fever and hemoptysis were identified as important clinical symptoms. Seven of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF positive sputum specimens (65) were resistant to rif icin. About one in every seven TB suspects was affected with TB. A number of the TB patients carry multi drug resistant MTB. Hierarchical true prevalence estimation allowed identifying DOTS centers with high TB burden. Insights from this study will enable more efficient use of DOTScenters-based TB surveillance to end the TB epidemic in Bangladesh by 2035.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2008.10.012
Abstract: A goal of Johne's disease control programs is to accurately detect Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (MAP) infected cattle as quickly as possible to reduce disease transmission. A newly introduced real-time PCR provides results rapidly, but its accuracy in the field has not been evaluated. Fecal and serum s les collected from dairy cows in northern Indiana were used to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of a newly licensed real-time PCR test for direct fecal detection of Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (MAP). Results of the real-time PCR were evaluated in parallel with solid and liquid media culture systems and a serum ELISA for detection of MAP antibodies to determine the accuracy of the real-time PCR and the tests' potential usefulness in the field. A total of 143 s les were tested by all four methods. Using prior published estimates for sensitivity and specificity of each of the tests and Bayesian methodology, the sensitivity and specificity of the real-time PCR test was estimated to be 0.60 and 0.97, respectively. The accuracy of real-time PCR (0.90) was comparable to both solid (0.91) and liquid (0.93) culture. Because real-time PCR accuracy is comparable to standard culture methods, it is a useful new test. In addition, test results are obtained as rapidly as an ELISA, but are more accurate than the ELISA (0.82). This makes real-time PCR an attractive test and should shorten the quarantine period required for new purchases of unknown MAP-status animals into herds participating in an MAP control program.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 23-01-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2015.01.008
Abstract: In Bhutan, Capture-Neuter-Vaccinate-Release (CNVR) programs have been implemented to manage the dog population and control rabies, but no detailed evaluation has been done to assess their coverage and impact. We compared estimates of the dog population using three analytical methods: Lincoln-Petersen index, the Chapman estimate, and the logit-normal mixed effects model, and a varying number of count periods at different times of the day to recommend a protocol for applying the mark-resight framework to estimate free-roaming dog population abundance. We assessed the coverage of the CNVR program by estimating the proportion of dogs that were ear-notched and visually scored the health and skin condition of free-roaming dogs in Gelephu and Phuentsholing towns in south Bhutan, bordering India, in September-October 2012. The estimated free-roaming dog population in Gelephu using the Lincoln-Petersen index and Chapman estimates ranged from 612 to 672 and 614 to 671, respectively, while the logit-normal mixed effects model estimate based on the combined two count events was 641 (95% CI: 603-682). In Phuentsholing the Lincoln-Petersen index and Chapman estimates ranged from 525 to 583 and 524 to 582, respectively, while the logit-normal mixed effects model estimate based on the combined four count events was 555 (95% CI: 526-587). The total number of dogs counted was significantly associated with the time of day (AM versus PM P=0.007), with a 17% improvement in dog sightings during the morning counting events. We recommend to conduct a morning marking followed by one count event the next morning and estimate population size by applying the Lincoln-Peterson corrected Chapman method or conduct two morning count events and apply the logit-normal mixed model to estimate population size. The estimated proportion of vaccinated free-roaming dogs was 56% (95% CI: 52-61%) and 58% (95% CI: 53-62%) in Gelephu and Phuentsholing, respectively. Given coverage in many neighbourhoods was below the recommended threshold of 70%, we recommend conducting an annual "mass dog vaccination only" c aign in southern Bhutan to create an immune buffer in this high rabies-risk area. The male-to-female dog ratio was 1.34:1 in Gelephu and 1.27:1 in Pheuntsholing. Population size estimates using mark-resight surveys has provided useful baseline data for understanding the population dynamics of dogs at the study sites. Mark-resight surveys provide useful information for designing and managing the logistics of dog vaccination or CNVR programs, assessing vaccination coverage, and for evaluating the impact of neutering programs on the size and structure of dog populations over time.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 22-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14156
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 13-02-2020
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13500
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 27-04-2021
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14039
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2017.01.003
Abstract: Epidemiological models in animal health are commonly used as decision-support tools to understand the impact of various control actions on infection spread in susceptible populations. Different models contain different assumptions and parameterizations, and policy decisions might be improved by considering outputs from multiple models. However, a transparent decision-support framework to integrate outputs from multiple models is nascent in epidemiology. Ensemble modelling and structured decision-making integrate the outputs of multiple models, compare policy actions and support policy decision-making. We briefly review the epidemiological application of ensemble modelling and structured decision-making and illustrate the potential of these methods using foot and mouth disease (FMD) models. In case study one, we apply structured decision-making to compare five possible control actions across three FMD models and show which control actions and outbreak costs are robustly supported and which are impacted by model uncertainty. In case study two, we develop a methodology for weighting the outputs of different models and show how different weighting schemes may impact the choice of control action. Using these case studies, we broadly illustrate the potential of ensemble modelling and structured decision-making in epidemiology to provide better information for decision-making and outline necessary development of these methods for their further application.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 19-09-2014
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268814002374
Abstract: Escherichia coli O157 is a human pathogen carried asymptomatically by cattle and shed in their faeces. Infection can occur from the consumption of contaminated beef or by direct contact. Large variations of E. coli O157 shedding in cattle exist and vary in the number of cattle positive for E. coli O157 and the amount of bacteria (c.f.u./g faeces) shed by positive animals. To investigate E. coli O157 shedding and super-shedding ( 4 c.f.u./g) we used daily s ling over two 8-day periods in January 2013 ( n = 12) and February 2013 ( n = 21). S les were tested by direct faecal culture for enumeration and by immunomagnetic separation to detect lower levels of shedding. We identified three patterns of shedding, similar to previously observed descriptions: intermittent, transient and consistent. The most commonly observed pattern was intermittent shedding and variation in the level of shedding could be large. This extreme variation is demonstrated by a heifer from which E. coli O157 could be not detected one day, was super-shedding E. coli O157 the next and was detected as shedding c.f.u./g the following day. Recto-anal mucosal swab testing did not predict super-shedding in this cohort of heifers. The variable in idual patterns of shedding suggest that a common mechanism of infection may not operate within such a herd when considering previously described patterns and the inferred mechanisms. The sporadic and intermittent nature of shedding is a challenge to identifying risk factors and potential intervention strategies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2013.01.001
Abstract: Rabies was first reported in the Sultanate of Oman is 1990. We analysed passive surveillance data (444 s les) collected and reported between 2006 and 2010. During this period, between 45 and 75% of s les submitted from suspect animals were subsequently confirmed (fluorescent antibody test, histopathology and reverse transcription PCR) as rabies cases. Overall, 63% of submitted s les were confirmed as rabies cases. The spatial distribution of species-specific cases were similar (centred in north-central Oman with a northeast-southwest distribution), although fox cases had a wider distribution and an east-west orientation. Clustering of cases was detected using interpolation, local spatial autocorrelation and scan statistical analysis. Several local government areas (wilayats) in north-central Oman were identified where higher than expected numbers of laboratory-confirmed rabies cases were reported. For fox rabies, more clusters (local spatial autocorrelation analysis) and a larger clustered area (scan statistical analysis) were detected. In Oman, monthly reports of fox rabies cases were highly correlated (rSP>0.5) with reports of camel, cattle, sheep and goat rabies. The best-fitting ARIMA model included a seasonality component. Fox rabies cases reported 6 months previously best explained rabies reported cases in other animal species. Despite likely reporting bias, results suggest that rabies exists as a sylvatic cycle of transmission in Oman and an opportunity still exists to prevent establishment of dog-mediated rabies.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 23-09-2019
Publisher: PAGEPress Publications
Date: 11-2012
DOI: 10.4081/GH.2012.112
Abstract: The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV), subtype H5N1 poses a serious threat not only to the poultry industry and wild birds but also to humans. Despite a large number of studies conducted on various aspects of this virus, its transmissibility is still poorly understood. This study quantifies the basic reproductive number (R0) of the global HPAIV H5N1 spread within domestic poultry during December 2003 to December 2009. Three different approaches were applied to estimate R0 for HPAIV H5N1: (i) epidemic doubling time (ii) spatial distance-based nearest neighbour and (iii) spatio-temporal distance-based nearest neighbour. These three approaches represent temporal (tR0), spatial (sR0) and spatio-temporal transmissibility (stR0), respectively. The joint application of these three approaches provides a more complete profile by characterising the transmissibility traits of infectious diseases from different perspectives. Estimates of tR0 gradually decreased over the six sequential epidemic waves (EWs) examined, suggesting that the implemented control measures were effective in reducing the number of outbreaks. However, sR0 and stR0 increased from EW1, peaked in EW3 and then gradually decreased during EW4-EW6, reflecting different aspects of disease transmissibility compared to tR0. The application of all three methods in the final EW6 showed R0 >1, suggesting that the control measures implemented did not completely interrupt the transmission cycle, and hence were insufficient to eliminate HPAIV H5N1. Close monitoring of HPAIV H5N1 outbreaks and enhanced control policies is advised.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2015.10.009
Abstract: Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious and often fatal disease reported worldwide. Outbreaks occur throughout Australia, and it has been suggested that disproportionally more CPV cases occur in rural locations. However, evidence to support this suggestion-and possible reasons for such a predisposition-has not existed until now. In this study a total of 4870 CPV cases reported from an Australian disease surveillance system between September 2009 and July 2014 were analysed. Australian postcodes were classified as rural or urban (based on human population density) and reported CPV cases were then categorised as rural or urban based on their reported home postcode. Parvovirus cases were predominately young (<12 months), entire, unvaccinated, mixed-breed dogs. More than twice as many of the reported cases were from a rural area (3321 cases) compared to an urban area (1549 cases). The overall case fatality rate was 47.2% it was higher for those CPV cases reported from urban areas (50.6%) than rural areas (45.5%). A greater proportion of rural cases were younger, entire dogs compared to urban cases. The final multivariable model of CPV cases being reported from a rural area included age (<12 months) and vaccination status (never vaccinated) as significant predictors. Poor socioeconomic status might be a reason for the decision of rural owners not to vaccinate their dogs as readily as urban owners. The excess reporting of rural CPV cases compared to urban cases and the predictive risk factors identified in this study can be used by veterinarians to reduce the incidence of CPV by educating owners about the disease and promoting better vaccination programs in rural areas. This study also supports that the increased risk of CPV in rural areas may necessitate a need for increased vigilance around preventing CPV disease spread, additional care with puppies which are the most susceptible to this disease and tighter vaccination protocols, compared to urban areas.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 19-02-2020
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13509
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-01-2017
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12344
Abstract: To determine the role of different Brucella (B.) spp. in Bangladesh, 62 animal s les and 500 human sera were tested. Animal s les from cattle, goats and sheep (including milk, bull semen, vaginal swabs and placentas) were cultured for Brucella spp. Three test-positive human sera and all animal s les were screened by Brucella genus-specific real-time PCR (RT-PCR), and positive s les were then tested by IS711 RT-PCR to detect B. abortus and B. melitensis DNA. Only B. abortus DNA was lified from 13 human and six animal s les. This is the first report describing B. abortus as the aetiological agent of brucellosis in occupationally exposed humans in Bangladesh. Of note is failure to detect B. melitensis DNA, the species most often associated with human brucellosis worldwide. Further studies are required to explore the occurrence of Brucella melitensis in Bangladesh.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 27-07-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2011.08.003
Abstract: One of the most important transboundary animal diseases (TADs) in the southern African region is foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). In this region, a pathway for spread of FMD virus is contacts between cattle and certain species of wildlife. The objective of this study was to evaluate contacts between cattle and wildlife in the Kruger National Park (KNP) and the adjacent Limpopo province for the time periods October 2006 to March 2007 and April to September 2007. In this study, 87 livestock owners and 57 KNP field rangers were interviewed. Fifteen (17%) livestock owners reported contacts between wildlife and cattle. More livestock owners reported observing contacts between cattle and all wildlife species during October-March than April-September (p=0.012). However, no difference was found between these periods for contacts between cattle and in idual wildlife species. A total of 18 (32%) field rangers reported contacts between cattle and wildlife. The most common species-specific contacts were between cattle and buffalo (63/year), cattle and impala (17/year) and cattle and lion (10/year). There were no significant differences in rangers reporting observed contacts between cattle and wildlife during October-March versus April-September or between rangers reporting observed contacts outside versus within the KNP. Overall, there was no evidence of higher contact rates between cattle and wildlife in the study area during October-March compared to April-September. Contact data collected in this study can be used to better understand the transmission of FMD virus in this region.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-07-2017
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-017-06399-2
Abstract: Diarrhoeal disease (scours) in piglets, often associated with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), is a substantial financial burden to the pig industry worldwide. Previous research has not explicitly examined the relationships between farm, pen and microbiological factors. Here we present a state of the art analysis to reveal empirical indirect – as well as direct – associations between management factors as putative risks for scours in pre- and post-weaned piglets. A Bayesian Network is constructed to identify the optimal structural model describing the relationships between risk factors. An additive model is then built to estimate more epidemiologically familiar odds ratios. Farm-level variance dominates the model, making many pen-level associations null. However, there is evidence that pre-weaning scours are less likely on farms with sows (0.14, 0.03–0.50). Our results strongly suggest that smaller production units (piglets en) could reduce the incidence of scours in piglets. There is also some evidence that ownership of other livestock is a potential risk factor for pre-weaning scours, although this was observed only at one farm. Future research should be directed at better understanding the role of herd size and investigating the relationship between managing other livestock and the occurrence of scours in pig herds.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2014.07.008
Abstract: Disease transmission parameters are the core of epidemic models, but are difficult to estimate, especially in the absence of outbreak data. Investigation of the roaming behaviour, home range (HR) and utilization distribution (UD) can provide the foundation for such parameter estimation in free-ranging animals. The objectives of this study were to estimate HR and UD of 69 domestic dogs in six Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in northern Australia and to compare four different methods (the minimum convex polygon, MCP the location-based kernel density estimation, LKDE the biased random bridge, BRB and Time Local Convex Hull, T-LoCoH) for investigation of UD and estimating HR sizes. Global positioning system (GPS) collars were attached to community dogs for a period of 1-3 days and positions (fixes) were recorded every minute. Median core HRs (50% isopleth) of the 69 dogs were estimated to range from 0.2 to 0.4 ha and the more extended HR (95% isopleth) to range from 2.5 to 5.3 ha, depending on the method used. The HR and UD shapes were found to be generally circular around the dog owner's house. However, some in iduals were found to roam much more with a HR size of 40-104 ha and cover large areas of their community or occasionally beyond. These far roaming dogs are of particular interest for infectious disease transmission. Occasionally, dogs were taken between communities and out of communities for hunting, which enables the contact of dogs between communities and with wildlife (such as dingoes). The BRB and T-LoCoH are the only two methods applied here which integrate the consecutiveness of GPS locations into the analysis, a substantial advantage. The recently developed BRB method produced significantly larger HR estimates than the other two methods however, the variability of HR sizes was lower compared to the other methods. Advantages of the BRB method include a more realistic analytical approach (kernel density estimation based on movements rather than on locations), possibilities to deal with irregular time periods between consecutive GPS fixes and parameter specification which respects the characteristics of the GPS unit used to collect the data. The BRB method was therefore the most suitable method for UD estimation in this dataset. The results of this study can further be used to contact rates between the dogs within and between communities, a foundation for estimating transmission parameters for canine infectious disease models, such as a rabies spread model in Australia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2008.10.003
Abstract: The association between the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and periods of above- or below-average reported cases of equine West Nile virus encephalomyelitis, reported in Texas between 2002 and 2004, was investigated. A time-series of case reports, using a biweekly window, was constructed. Because of the disparity in number of cases reported (1698, 672 and 101 in 2002, 2003 and 2004, respectively), data were standardized by calculating the number of cases reported during each biweekly period as a ratio of the annual average number of cases reported. The mean NDVI (0.439) in Texas in biweekly periods in which cases were reported was significantly higher (P<0.001) than the mean NDVI (0.396) in periods in which cases were not reported. The best-fitting model of standardized case ratios included the mean NDVI in the preceding 4-week period. This association was further investigated in the two ecological regions of Texas in which most cases were reported during the study period--Prairies and Lakes, and the Panhandle Plains. Standardized case ratios in the Prairies and Lakes ecoregion were best predicted by NDVI estimated 19-20 weeks previously, whereas standardized case ratios in the Panhandle Plains region were most strongly associated with NDVI estimated 1-4 weeks previously, indicating that the temporal lag between appropriate environmental conditions and resulting increased risk of WNV transmission can vary in different regions. The associations identified could be useful in an early-warning system of increased disease risk.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2015.05.012
Abstract: To assess whether the seroprevalence of canine distemper virus (CDV) and canine parvovirus (CPV) in domestic dogs is higher in urban versus rural areas of the Araucanía region in Chile and risk factors for exposure, a serosurvey and questionnaire survey at three, urban-rural paired sites was conducted from 2009 to 2012. Overall, 1161 households were interviewed of which 71% were located in urban areas. A total of 501 blood s les were analysed. The overall CDV and CPV seroprevalences were 61% (CI 90%: 58-70%) and 47% (CI 90%: 40-49%), and 89% (CI 90%: 85-92%) and 72% (CI 90%: 68-76%) in urban and rural areas, respectively. The higher seroprevalence in domestic dogs in urban areas suggests that urban domestic dogs might be a maintenance host for both CDV and CPV in this region. Due to the presence of endangered wild canids populations in areas close to these domestic populations, surveillance and control of these pathogens in urban dog populations is needed a priority.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2017.01.017
Abstract: The objective of this study was to trial point of truth calibration (POTCal) as a novel method for disease prioritisation. To illustrate the application of this method, we used a previously described case-study of prioritisation of exotic diseases for the pig industry in Australia. Disease scenarios were constructed from criteria which described potential impact and pig-producers were asked to score the importance of each scenario. POTCal was used to model participants' estimates of disease importance as a function of the criteria, to derive a predictive model to prioritise a range of exotic diseases. The best validation of producers' estimates was achieved using a model derived from all responses. The highest weighted criteria were attack rate, case fatality rate and market loss, and the highest priority diseases were the vesicular diseases followed by swine fevers and zoonotic encephalitides. Comparison of results with a previous study in which probabilistic inversion was used to prioritise diseases for the same group of producers highlighted differences between disease prioritisation methods. Overall, this study demonstrated that POTCal can be used for disease prioritisation. An advantage of POTCal is that valid models can be developed that reflect decision-makers' heuristics. Specifically, this evaluation of the use of POTCal in animal health illustrates how the judgements of participants can be incorporated into a decision-making process. Further research is needed to investigate the influence of scenarios presented to participants during POTCal evaluations, and the robustness of this approach applied to different disease issues (e.g. exotic versus endemic) and production types (e.g. intensive versus extensive). To our knowledge, this is the first report of the use of POTCal for disease prioritisation.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-08-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2003
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-11-2015
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12238
Abstract: Hendra virus (HeV), a potentially fatal zoonotic disease spread by flying foxes, to date has always infected humans via a spillover event from equine HeV infection. In a theoretical case study, we compared the impacts of two different HeV prevention strategies - vaccination and flying fox roost removal - using a recently developed framework that considers different stakeholder group perspectives. The perspectives of the four selected stakeholder groups regarding intangibles were inferred from public discussions and coverage in the media. For all stakeholder groups, the option to vaccinate horses was found to add value to the economic results when the intangible impacts were included in the analysis, while the option for roost removal unanimously detracted from economic analysis value when the intangible impacts were included. Both the mean and median stakeholder-adjusted value ratios (2.25 and 2.12, respectively) for vaccination were inflated when intangible impacts were included, by value-adding to the results of a traditional economic analysis. In the roost removal strategy, these ratios (1.19 and 1.16, respectively) were deflated when intangible impacts were included. Results of this theoretical study suggest that the inclusion of intangible impacts promotes the value of a two-dose initial vaccination protocol using a subunit vaccination considered to offer complete protection for horses, as a strategy to control HeV, whereas roost removal becomes an even more costly strategy. Outcome of the analysis is particularly sensitive to the intangible value placed on human health. Further evaluation - via sociological methods - of values placed on intangibles by various stakeholder groups is warranted.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268819000189
Abstract: Domestic dogs display complex roaming behaviours, which need to be captured to more realistically model the spread of rabies. We have previously shown that roaming behaviours of domestic dogs can be categorised as stay-at-home , roamer and explorer in the Northern Peninsular Area (NPA), Queensland, Australia. These roaming behaviours are likely to cause heterogeneous contact rates that influence the speed or pattern of rabies spread in a dog population. The aim of this study was to define contact spatial kernels using the overlap of in idual dog utilisation distributions to describe the daily probability of contact between pairs of dogs exhibiting these three a priori roaming behaviours. We further aimed to determine if the kernels lead to different predicted rabies outbreaks (outbreak duration and number of rabid dogs) by incorporating the spatial kernels into a previously developed rabies spread model for the NPA. Spatial kernels created with both dogs in a pair being explorers or one dog explorer and one dog roamer (who roamed away from their residence) produced short but large outbreaks compared with spatial kernels with at least one stay-at-home dog. Outputs from this model incorporating heterogeneous contacts demonstrate how roaming behaviours influence disease spread in domestic dog populations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-05-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2013.05.003
Abstract: We present a novel framework for addressing the intangible impacts of emergency animal diseases (EADs). Intangible elements can have great impact on the response, control and prevention strategies that are ultimately used to address these EADs. These intangible elements have value and worth, although these are difficult express in dollar terms. Consequently, these elements are often lost in the scope of traditional economic analysis. Without the inclusion of these intangibles, the bottom-line for decision-making related to animal-health emergencies would be based only on financial measures. This does not reflect the reality of the consultative policy-making process. The framework we present allows a measurement of the trade-offs that stakeholders are willing to accept under different EAD control scenarios. The key attributes of the framework include both the consultative processes involving different stakeholders and the process of identification of intangibles and their personal value to these stakeholders. This consultation will ensure that the resulting analysis includes the full impacts of EADs, rather than only a narrow comparison of financial costs and benefits.
Publisher: Authorea, Inc.
Date: 08-07-2023
DOI: 10.22541/AU.168879786.66303440/V1
Abstract: Background: Understanding the SARS-COV-2 reinfection rate and its potential influencing factors is essential for further improvement and development of prevention and control strategies and measures to reduce the reinfection rate of SARS-CoV-2. This study aimed to quantitatively summarize the evidence of current reinfection studies. Methods: We reviewed all English studies published up to Dec 4, 2022. Information extracted from each selected articles and quality assessment of these articles was used to evaluate the risk for bias in studies. The meta-analysis was performed to examine the rate and influencing factors of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection and protective effect of primary infection on reinfection in our study. Sources of heterogeneity were identified using a subgroup analysis defined by the minimum time interval of days to reinfection and variant strains. Results: The weighted pooled rate of reinfection for SARS-CoV-2 was 1.08% ([95% CI, 0.77%-1.52%], I2 = 100%, P 0.001). Subgroup-analysis of the minimum time interval definition for reinfection showed that rates of reinfection are 0.71%, 0.75%, 1.46% and 1.62% in less than 90 days, 90 days, greater than 90 days, unknown groups, respectively and 0.64%,1.8%,3.08%,0.95% in Alpha, Delta, Omicron, unknown groups. The weighted pooled RR value of the protective effect of primary infection on reinfection was 0.09 ([95% CI, 0.06-0.13], I2 = 92%, P 0.01). Conclusions: Overall, the reinfection rate of SARS-CoV-2 is relatively low and appears to be on the rise as duration from the first infection to the second infection and the novel coronavirus strain mutates.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-05-2020
DOI: 10.3390/ANI10050810
Abstract: Dogs are important companions to people in many societies however, dogs can also be associated with risks to public health and safety. Dog population management is therefore an important consideration globally. This study aimed to better understand the role of dogs in Aboriginal communities and the barriers to accessing veterinary services. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 85 dog owners from nine Aboriginal communities across New South Wales, Australia. Many positive aspects of dog ownership were identified and few negatives. Dogs are considered an important part of family and community life and many dogs are allowed indoors (63.4%), even sharing beds with their owners. Most dogs were kept for companionship (84.7%) and/or as guard dogs (45.9%) and all respondents considered their dog part of their family. However, respondents had low levels of engagement with mainstream veterinary services, and many respondents identified significant barriers to accessing veterinary services, especially cost and transport. This study demonstrates the important and positive role of dogs in Aboriginal families and communities but also highlights a significant veterinary service gap. Our findings demonstrate that different perspectives on the role of dogs necessitates a different, culturally inclusive approach to dog management interventions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-05-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S00248-019-01382-Y
Abstract: Staphylococci are important opportunistic pathogens in human and veterinary medicine in addition to being part of the normal flora of the skin and mucous membranes of mammals and birds. The rise of antimicrobial resistance amongst staphylococci warrants closer investigation of the ersity of skin commensal organisms-including coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS)-due to their potential as a source of resistance genes. This study is aimed at characterising the commensal staphylococci-including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus species (spp.)-from mucocutaneous sites of dogs and cats from remote New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Pet dogs and cats were recruited from participants in a community companion animal health programme in six communities in western NSW. Three swabs were collected from each animal (anterior nares, oropharynx, and perineum) and from skin lesions or wounds if present and cultured on selective media for Staphylococcus spp. In total, 383 pets (303 dogs, 80 cats) were enrolled. Staphylococcus spp. were isolated from 67.3% of dogs and 73.8% of cats (494 isolates). The ersity of CoNS was high (20 species) whilst only three coagulase-positive spp. were isolated (S. pseudintermedius, S. aureus, S. intermedius). The prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carriage in dogs was high (2.6%) relative to other studies but was only a small proportion of overall commensal staphylococci. No cats carried MRSA and no MRSP was isolated from either species. Dogs were significantly more likely to carry coagulase-positive staphylococci than cats (P < 0.001). Amongst dogs, males and those with skin lesions were more likely to carry S. pseudintermedius. This study highlights important differences in the ersity and patterns of carriage of commensal staphylococci between dogs and cats in remote NSW, Australia.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 25-02-2022
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0264577
Abstract: Bovine rotavirus (BRV) is considered the leading cause of calf diarrhea worldwide, including Bangladesh. In this study we aimed to identify risk factors for BRV infection and determine the G and P genotypes of BRV strains in diarrheic calves. Fecal s les were collected from 200 diarrheic calves in three districts between January 2014 and October 2015. These s les were screened to detect the presence of BRV using rapid test-strips BIO K 152 (RTSBK). The RTSBK positive s les were further tested by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and the silver staining technique to detect rotavirus dsRNA. Risk factors were identified by multivariable logistic regression analysis. The G and P genotypes of BRV were determined by RT-PCR and sequencing. A phylogenetic tree was constructed based on the neighbor-joining method using CLC sequence viewer 8.0. About 23% of the diarrheic calves were BRV positive. The odds of BRV infection were 3.8- (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.0–14.7) and 3.9-times (95% CI:1.1–14.2) higher in Barisal and Madaripur districts, respectively, than Sirrajganj. The risk of BRV infection was 3.1-times (95% CI: 1.5–6.5) higher in calves aged ≤ 5 weeks than those aged weeks. Moreover, the risk of BRV infection was 2.6-times (95% CI:1.1–5.8) higher in crossbred (Holstein Friesian, Shahiwal) than indigenous calves. G6P[11] was the predominant genotype (94.4%), followed by G10P[11] (5.6%). The BRV G6 strains were found to be closest (98.9–99.9%) to Indian strains, and BRV G10 strains showed 99.9% identities with Indian strain. The VP4 gene of all P[11] strains showed % identities to each other and also with Indian strains. The most frequently identified BRV genotype was G6P[11]. About 23% of calf diarrhea cases were associated with BRV. To control disease, high-risk areas and younger crossbred calves should be targeted for surveillance and management. The predominant genotype could be utilized as the future vaccine candidate or vaccines with the dominant genotype should be used to control BRV diarrhea in Bangladesh.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-11-2018
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12766
Abstract: To generate domestic dog demographic information to aid population and disease management in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities of the Northern Peninsula Area, Queensland, Australia. Sight-resight surveys using standard and modified methods were conducted to estimate the free-roaming dog population size. A cross-sectional questionnaire of dog owners was used to gather dog demographic information and investigate owners' dog management behaviours. A survey was also conducted to estimate the total dog population size. The mean total dog population size was estimated to be 813 (range, 770-868). The roaming dog population was 430 or 542 (95% confidence interval (CI) 254-608 95% CI 405-680, standard and modified methods, respectively). Therefore, the roaming population represents 52.8% or 66.7% of the total population based on the sight-resight methodology. We surveyed 65 dog owners who owned 165 dogs (1 : 1 ratio of male : female dogs). Only 14% (95% CI 9-19) of dogs were sterilised and significantly more males were entire (P = 0.02). Although most dogs were pets (65%), hunting dogs were significantly more likely to be taken outside of the resident community (P < 0.001). The birth rate was 2.4 puppies/dog-owning house/year, which was higher than the death rate (1.7 dogs/dog-owning house/year). In the previous 12 months, 90% of the 109 deaths were dogs aged 0-2 years old. This study demonstrated that most of the dog population in the NPA is free-roaming and that the population has increased, likely because of a lack of population management strategies such as sterilisation. This information will be used to develop population and disease management strategies in the NPA.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 13-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14133
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2012.12.011
Abstract: In this study our aim was to value the benefits of rapid effective trace-back capability-based on a livestock identification system - in the event of a foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreak. We simulated an FMD outbreak in the Texas High Plains, an area of high livestock concentration, beginning in a large feedlot. Disease spread was simulated under different time dependent animal tracing scenarios. In the specific scenario modeled (incursion of FMD within a large feedlot, detection within 14 days and 90% effective tracing), simulation suggested that control costs of the outbreak significantly increase if tracing does not occur until day 10 as compared to the baseline of tracing on day 2. In addition, control costs are significantly increased if effectiveness were to drop to 30% as compared to the baseline of 90%. Results suggest potential benefits from rapid effective tracing in terms of reducing government control costs however, a variety of other scenarios need to be explored before determining in which situations rapid effective trace-back capability is beneficial.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2003
DOI: 10.1016/S0167-5877(03)00143-0
Abstract: Identification of risk factors for horses shedding Salmonella in their feces helps identify patients at-risk of infection and protect the overall population through heightened biosecurity. Fecal s les from 230 hospitalized horses were cultured for Salmonella spp. Historical data were collected on 21 putative risk factors and assessed for association with the risk of a horse being culture positive using forwards stepwise logistic regression. Salmonella was isolated from 13 horses--most commonly from either the first (n=5) or second (n=4) s le collected. Only presenting complaint (confounded by age, breed and gender) was significantly (P < or = 0.05) associated with positive Salmonella-culture results. Analysis of residuals showed that the model was robust, but in idual risk-factor estimates were changed by removal of outliers. Overall, presenting complaint (for ex le, lower-respiratory-tract disease) was the most important indicator of culture status.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-01-2013
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-02-2016
DOI: 10.1111/MVE.12163
Abstract: Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) midges are the biological vectors of a number of arboviruses of veterinary importance. However, knowledge relating to the basic biology of some species, including their host-feeding preferences, is limited. Identification of host-feeding preferences in haematophagous insects can help to elucidate the transmission dynamics of the arboviruses they may transmit. In this study, a series of semi-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays to identify the vertebrate host sources of bloodmeals of Culicoides midges was developed. Two pan-reactive species group and seven species-specific qPCR assays were developed and evaluated. The assays are quick to perform and less expensive than nucleic acid sequencing of bloodmeals. Using these assays, it was possible to rapidly test nearly 700 blood-fed midges of various species from several geographic locations in Australia.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 17-06-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-05-2022
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13165
Abstract: The 2019/2020 Australian bushfires were the largest bushfire event in modern Australian history. While actions to mitigate risk to homes from bushfires are well reported, there is very little research reported on the impacts of bushfires on livestock. With an increasing incidence of bushfires predicted, there is an urgent need to identify how farmers can best protect their livestock. Compare bushfire affected farms with and without injured livestock to identify associations between risk factors and bushfire injury. Infer management approaches that can be used to reduce bushfire injury in livestock. A case‐control study using a structured interview questionnaire, delivered in late 2020 to cattle and sheep farmers in south‐eastern Australia (New South Wales and Victoria) whose farmland was burnt in the 2019/2020 Australian bushfires. Case farms were farms with bushfires injured or killed livestock. Control farms were farms that had no bushfire injured livestock but that still had fire present on the farm. Interview responses were summarised and information theoretical approaches were used to identify potential risk factors for livestock bushfire injury and protective actions that could inform future fire‐preparation recommendations. Of 46 farms in the case‐control study, 21 (46%) reported bushfire injured or killed livestock. Apparent protective factors identified included: preparation (having a bushfire plan and more than two farm bushfire fighting units), backburning and receiving assistance from fire authorities. Combined beef and sheep grazing enterprises appeared to have an increased risk of bushfire injury to livestock.
Publisher: American Association of Zoo Veterinarians
Date: 03-2012
DOI: 10.1638/2011-0038.1
Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate the mottled duck (Anas fulvigula), a nonmigratory dabbling duck, as a sentinel species for avian influenza virus (AIV) surveillance. A total of 235 cloacal swabs from 147 live-captured and 88 hunter-harvested mottled ducks during summer (June-August 2007) and winter (November 2007 to January 2008), respectively, were collected along the upper Texas coast. S les were screened for AIV using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) all rRT-PCR-positive s les were processed for virus isolation. Three s les were positive for AIV by AIV-matrix rRT-PCR. One of these s les also was positive for H5 by rRT-PCR, and a low pathogenic H5N2 AIV was isolated. Although isolation of AIVs from mottled ducks during the winter has been reported previously, to the authors' knowledge, this is the first H5 isolate from mottled ducks. Interestingly, this isolation was made during the same season that other H5N2 viruses were obtained from migratory waterfowl on the Texas coast, which suggests AIV transmission among waterfowl on the wintering grounds and the potential role of mottled ducks as a naturally occurring sentinel species for AIV surveillance.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-01-2021
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13047
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 19-10-2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-10-2018
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12409
Abstract: Previous studies estimate that one-third of the annual global burden of rabies (~20,000 cases) occurs in India. Elimination of canine rabies is essential to reduce this burden. Surveillance of animal cases can assess both the risk to humans and the efficacy of control strategies. The objective of this study was to describe the spatial and temporal occurrence of reported confirmed cases of rabies in animals in Punjab, India, from 2004 to 2014. We analysed passive surveillance data on 556 s les submitted from 2004 to 2014 to GADVASU, Ludhiana, Punjab, India. Regression and time series analyses were conducted to understand seasonal and long-term variation of cases and identify cross-correlation of monthly cases between species. Spatio-temporal analyses assessed spatial autocorrelation of date of reporting, mean geographic centres of disease occurrence and clustering of cases using Kulldorff's space-time permutation statistic. The annual number of submissions and proportion of confirmed cases were consistent throughout 2004-2014. Most submissions (320 57.6%) were confirmed rabies cases, including dogs (40.6%), buffalo (29.7%) and cattle (23.1%). Regression analysis of monthly cases in dogs showed seasonal variation with significant increases in cases in March and August. Monthly case numbers in buffalo decreased over time. Long-term temporal trend was not detected in dog and cattle cases. Time-series models identified significant cross-correlation between dog and buffalo cases, suggesting that buffalo cases were spillover events from dogs. Significant spatio-temporal variation or clusters of cases were not detected. These results indicate that rabies cases in animals-and therefore, the potential for exposure to humans-were temporally and spatially stable during 2004-2014 in Punjab, India. The endemic nature of rabies transmission in this region demands a coordinated, sustained control programme. This study provides baseline information for assessing the efficacy of rabies control measures and developing seasonally targeted dog vaccination and rabies awareness strategies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2014.12.006
Abstract: Pig farming is a common practice among smallholder farmers in Nusa Tenggara Timur province (NTT), eastern Indonesia. To understand their production systems a survey of smallholder pig farmers was conducted. Eighteen villages were randomly selected across West Timor, Flores and Sumba islands, and 289 pig farmers were interviewed. Information on pig management, biosecurity practices, pig movements and knowledge of pig health and disease, specifically classical swine fever was collected. The mean number of pigs per herd was 5.0 (not including piglets), and total marketable herd size (pigs≥two months of age) did not differ significantly between islands (P=0.215). Chickens (71%) and dogs (62%) were the most commonly kept animal species in addition to pigs. Pigs were mainly kept as a secondary income source (69%) and 83% of farmers owned at least one sow. Seventy-four percent (74%) of pigs were housed in a kandang (small bamboo pen) and 25% were tethered. Pig feeds were primarily locally sourced agricultural products (93%). The majority of farmers had no knowledge of classical swine fever (91%) and biosecurity practices were minimal. Forty-five percent (45%) reported to consuming a pig when it died and 74% failed to report cases of sick or dead pigs to appropriate authorities. Sixty-five percent (65%) of farmers reported that a veterinarian or animal health worker had never visited their village. Backyard slaughter was common practice (55%), with meat mainly used for home consumption (89%). Most (73%) farmers purchased pigs in order to raise the animal on their farm with 36% purchasing at least one pig within the last year. Predominantly fattener pigs (34%) were given as gifts for celebratory events, most commonly for funerals (32%), traditional ceremonies (27%) and marriages (10%). For improved productivity of this traditional low-input system, research incorporating farming training and improved knowledge on pig disease and biosecurity needs to be integrated with greater access to extension services.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-11-2012
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2004
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2004.08.002
Abstract: A major epidemic of foot-and-mouth disease affected Argentina during 2001. The epidemic was controlled by mass-vaccination of the national herd and movement restrictions. The median herd disease reproduction ratio (RH) decreased significantly from 2.4 (before the epidemic was officially recognized) to 1.2 during the mass-vaccination c aign and 1 year.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2004
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2004.08.003
Abstract: During a recent foot-and-mouth disease epidemic in Argentina, cattle herds affected in 2001 were located mainly (69%) in Buenos Aires province. The densities of outbreaks (no. of outbreaks per km2) and cattle-demographic variables in the province were estimated using a geographical information system and kernel function. Before the epidemic officially was recognized, the density of outbreaks was correlated (rsp = 0.28-0.47) with the geographic distribution of small ( 500 cattle) and breeding herds. After the end of the mass-vaccination c aign, large herds and number of cows were most strongly correlated (rsp = 0.16-0.26) with outbreak density. These relationships might indicate that: (1) the disease spread more rapidly or was more easily detected in intensive production systems at the beginning of the epidemic (2) vaccination and other control methods applied were less effective in large, semi-intensive production systems (3) incomplete vaccine protection was responsible for herd outbreaks that occurred after the end of the mass-vaccination c aign.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 30-06-2014
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268814001630
Abstract: We undertook a longitudinal study within a cohort of 52 dairy heifers maintained under constant management systems and s led weekly to investigate a comprehensive range of risk factors which may influence shedding or super-shedding of E. coli O157 (detected by direct faecal culture and immunomagnetic separation). E. coli O157 was detected from 416/933 (44·6%) s les (faeces and recto-anal mucosal swabs) and 32 (3·4%) s les enumerated at c.f.u./g. Weekly point prevalence ranged from 9·4% to 94·3%. Higher temperature ( P 0·001), rainfall ( P = 0·02), relative humidity ( P 0·001), pasture growth ( P = 0·013) and body score ( P = 0·029) were positively associated with increased shedding. Higher rainfall ( P 0·001), hide contamination ( P = 0·002) and increased faecal consistency ( P = 0·023) were positively associated with super-shedding. Increased solar exposure had a negative effect on both shedding and super-shedding within bivariate analyses but in the final multivariate model for shedding demonstrated a positive effect ( P = 0·017). Results suggest that environmental factors are important in E. coli O157 shedding in cattle.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2014.12.002
Abstract: Knowledge of live animal movement through markets and from farm-to-farm is needed to inform strategies for control of trans-boundary animal diseases (TADs) in south-east Asia, particularly due to consumer preference for fresh meat. In eastern Indonesia a TAD of principal interest for control is classical swine fever (CSF) due to its impacts on smallholder farmers. Pig movement is considered a contributor to failure of current CSF control efforts but pig movement patterns are not well understood. This study investigated movement of live pigs in West Timor, Flores and Sumba islands during 2009-2010, with the aim of informing CSF control policies for Nusa Tenggara Timor province. A market survey of 292 pig sellers and 281 pig buyers across nine live pig markets and a farmer survey across 18 villages with 289 smallholder farmers were conducted and information collected on pig movements. The data obtained was used for social network analysis (SNA) on formal (via a market) and informal (village-to-village) movements using information on trading practices, source and destination locations, and the number of pigs being moved. Both inter- and intra-island movements were identified, however inter-island movement was only observed between Flores and Sumba islands. West Timor and Sumba had highly connected networks where large numbers of villages were directly and indirectly linked through pig movement. Further for West Timor, both formal and informal pig movements linked the capital Kupang, on the eastern end of the island to the western districts bordering East Timor connecting all five districts and demonstrating that informal movement transports pigs over distances similar to formal movement on this island. Sumba had a higher potential for pigs to move to a greater number of sequential locations across the entire island. Flores was found to have a more fragmented network, with pig movements concentrated in its eastern or western regions, influenced by terrain. Markets were confirmed as high-risk locations for the introduction and spread of disease, having over 20 contacts (based on in- and out-degree values) depending on operational day. Villages considered high-risk for CSF spread via informal movements were characterised by higher volume of pig exits and/or linkage to higher numbers of other villages. These findings demonstrate that informal movement (often related to cultural practices) can be extensive and the high level of connectivity dictates that control strategies for CSF and other highly transmissible diseases must be formulated at the provincial level and in collaboration with East Timor.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 19-06-2020
DOI: 10.3390/V12060663
Abstract: Canine parvovirus (CPV) is an important cause of disease in domestic dogs. Sporadic cases and outbreaks occur across Australia and worldwide and are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Whether transmission of CPV occurs between owned dogs and populations of wild dogs, including Canis familiaris, Canis lupus dingo and hybrids, is not known. To investigate the role of wild dogs in CPV epidemiology in Australia, PCR was used to detect CPV DNA in tissue from wild dogs culled in the peri-urban regions of two Australian states, between August 2012 and May 2015. CPV DNA was detected in 4.7% (8/170). There was a strong geospatial association between wild-dog CPV infections and domestic-dog CPV cases reported to a national disease surveillance system between 2009 and 2015. Postcodes in which wild dogs tested positive for CPV were 8.63 times more likely to also have domestic-dog cases reported than postcodes in which wild dogs tested negative (p = 0.0332). Phylogenetic analysis of CPV VP2 sequences from wild dogs showed they were all CPV-2a variants characterized by a novel amino acid mutation (21-Ala) recently identified in CPV isolates from owned dogs in Australia with parvoviral enteritis. Wild-dog CPV VP2 sequences were compared to those from owned domestic dogs in Australia. For one domestic-dog case located approximately 10 km from a wild-dog capture location, and reported 3.5 years after the nearest wild dog was s led, the virus was demonstrated to have a closely related common ancestor. This study provides phylogenetic and geospatial evidence of CPV transmission between wild and domestic dogs in Australia.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 27-04-2023
Abstract: Euthanasia techniques utilised by veterinarians impact the welfare of many dogs in their final moments. Despite euthanasia guidelines, little is known about euthanasia techniques used in practice. We administered an online survey of Australian veterinarians who had euthanised at least one dog in the previous 12 months. We found that 668 (96.8%) had euthanised a dog in the previous 12 months, almost all using intravenous pentobarbitone sodium (n = 651, 99.7%). For non-emergency euthanasia (n = 653), the majority (n = 442, 67.7%) administered a premedication or sedation prior to euthanasia versus less than half for emergency euthanasia (n = 286, 46.4%). Practices and views about euthanasia varied. Female veterinarians and veterinarians located in metropolitan regions were more likely to administer a premedication or sedation prior to non-emergency euthanasia (p 0.05). Veterinarians in private mixed animal practices were less likely to administer a premedication or sedation prior to a non-emergency euthanasia (p 0.05). For non-emergency and emergency euthanasia, veterinarians who worked in “other” practice types were more likely to administer a premedication or sedation than private companion animal practices (p 0.05). The possible reasons for differences in euthanasia practices are explored, and scope for refinement is identified.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2009.06.007
Abstract: The US Voluntary Bovine Johne's Disease Control Program (VBJDCP) stipulates the national standards for Johne's disease (JD) control, and herds classified as test-negative at Level 4 of the VBJDCP have the greatest likelihood of being non-infected. A questionnaire survey of owners of VBJDCP test-negative Level 4 beef herds was conducted to describe perceived benefits of attaining Level 4 status. Thirty-nine of the 40 producers returned completed or partially completed surveys. Sixty-four percent (23/36) of herds contained 50 or less test eligible cattle. Twenty-seven percent (10/37) of producers reported increased marketing opportunities as a goal for enrollment in the VBJDCP. Classification at test-negative Level 4 status in the VBJDCP led to increased marketing opportunities for more than one-third (13/35) of the producers. Twenty-five percent (9/36) of the producers reported significant and 39% (14/36) marginal benefits (financial and non-financial) as a result of participation in the VBJDCP. The median (range) reported annual benefit was $0 ($0, $10,000), whilst the median (range) annual cost of implementing and sustaining the VBJDCP on ranches was $200 ($0, $5000). It is suggested that greater publicity about the VBJDCP in the beef cattle industry will increase its chances of success by increasing awareness amongst producers concerned about herd health/disease monitoring, and through improved marketing opportunities.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1939-1676.2009.0441.X
Abstract: The conduct of randomized controlled trials in livestock with production, health, and food-safety outcomes presents unique challenges that might not be adequately reported in trial reports. The objective of this project was to modify the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) statement to reflect the unique aspects of reporting these livestock trials. A 2-day consensus meeting was held on November 18-19, 2008 in Chicago, IL, to achieve the objective. Before the meeting, a Web-based survey was conducted to identify issues for discussion. The 24 attendees were biostatisticians, epidemiologists, food-safety researchers, livestock production specialists, journal editors, assistant editors, and associate editors. Before the meeting, the attendees completed a Web-based survey indicating which CONSORT statement items would need to be modified to address unique issues for livestock trials. The consensus meeting resulted in the production of the REFLECT (Reporting Guidelines for Randomized Control Trials) statement for livestock and food safety and 22-item checklist. Fourteen items were modified from the CONSORT checklist, and an additional subitem was proposed to address challenge trials. The REFLECT statement proposes new terminology, more consistent with common usage in livestock production, to describe study subjects. Evidence was not always available to support modification to or inclusion of an item. The use of the REFLECT statement, which addresses issues unique to livestock trials, should improve the quality of reporting and design for trials reporting production, health, and food-safety outcomes.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-04-2017
DOI: 10.1111/MVE.12231
Abstract: Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are vectors of a number of globally important arboviruses that affect livestock, including bluetongue virus (BTV), African horse sickness virus and the recently emerged Schmallenberg virus. In this study, a model using embryonated chicken eggs (ECEs) was utilized to undertake vector competence studies of Australian Culicoides spp. for 13 laboratory-adapted or wild-type virus strains of BTV. A total of 7393 Culicoides brevitarsis were reared from bovine dung, and 3364 Culicoides were induced to feed from ECEs infected with different strains of BTV. Of those, 911 (27%) survived the putative extrinsic incubation period of 9-12 days. In some trials, virus was also transmitted onward to uninfected ECEs, completing the transmission cycle. This model does not rely on the use of colonized midges and has the capacity to assess the vector competence of field-collected insects with strains of virus that have not previously been passaged in laboratory culture systems. There is also potential for this model to be used in investigations of the competence of Culicoides spp. for other arboviruses.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-05-2020
Abstract: Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is highly endemic in Bangladesh. Using passive surveillance data (case records from all 64 districts of Bangladesh, 2014–2017) and district domestic ruminant population estimates, we calculated FMD cumulative incidence per 10,000 animals at risk per district, conducted cluster (Moran’s spatial autocorrelation and scan statistics) and hotspot analysis (local indicator of spatial association statistic), created predictive maps and identified risk factors using a geographically weighted regression model. A total of 548,817 FMD cases in cattle and buffalo were reported during the four-year study period. The highest proportion (31.5%) of cases were reported during the post-monsoon season, and from Chattogram (29.2%) ision. Five space-time clusters, 9 local clusters, and 14 hotspots were identified. Overall, higher cumulative incidences of FMD were consistently predicted in eastern parts of Bangladesh. The precipitation in the pre-monsoon season (p = 0.0008) was positively associated with FMD in Bangladesh. Results suggest climate plays an important role in the epidemiology of FMD in Bangladesh, and high risk zones exist. In a resource limited-setting, hotspots and clusters should be prioritized for vaccination coverage, and surveillance for FMD should be targeted in eastern areas of Bangladesh and during the post-monsoon season.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 22-11-2011
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 18-06-2008
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268808000885
Abstract: Three different methods were used for estimating the basic reproductive number ( R 0 ) from data on 110 outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5N1 that occurred in village poultry in Romania, 12 May to 6 June 2006. We assumed a village-level infectious period of 7 days. The methods applied were GIS-based identification of nearest infectious neighbour (based on either Euclidean or road distance), the method of epidemic doubling time, and a susceptible–infectious (SI) modelling approach. In general, the estimated basic reproductive numbers were consistent: 2·14, 1·95, 2·68 and 2·21, respectively. Although the true basic reproductive number in this epidemic is unknown, results suggest that the use of a range of methods might be useful for characterizing epidemics of infectious diseases. Once the basic reproductive number has been estimated, better control strategies and targeted surveillance programmes can be designed.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-07-2020
DOI: 10.3390/ANI10071230
Abstract: Dingo classification and management is complicated by hybridisation with domestic dogs. Northern Australia is a relatively high-risk zone for a rabies incursion, and in the event of an incursion, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who reside in this region would prioritise the protection of dingoes. Therefore, the classification of dingoes in this context is important. Twelve pictures of canids with features associated with both dingoes and domestic dogs from camera traps in the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA), northern Queensland, were shown to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rangers (n = 3), biosecurity officers (n = 2), environmental health workers (n = 2), and residents (n = 39) in the NPA. Nearly all pictures (10/12) were classified as dingo or domestic dog (none as hybrid) and two were inconclusive (no overall agreement). Dingoes were consistently identified as medium to large-framed dogs, with a long nose, pointed ears, narrow abdomen, a bushy or feathered tail, and smooth coats of a single base colour. Some hybrid features were acceptable, including sable coats, lack of white tail tip or feet, and curled tail. These findings are a preliminary guide for identifying canids in the NPA region for whom management might be controversial. Building on this approach via further consultation with residents is needed to inform rabies response policy. Our approach using locally acquired camera trap pictures could also be extended to other regions in which dingoes have value but their management is controversial.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-02-2022
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13153
Abstract: Sickness presenteeism in the veterinary profession potentially jeopardises the wellbeing of veterinary team members and endangers quality of patient care. In veterinary team members with influenza‐like illness (ILI), sickness presenteeism poses a risk to the health and wellbeing of colleagues and clients, particularly in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. This study aimed to evaluate factors associated with sickness presenteeism in NSW registered veterinarians suffering from ILI, both before and since the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Veterinarians registered in NSW were invited to complete an anonymous online mixed‐methods survey between 31 March 2021 and 31 June 2021, regarding sickness presenteeism and absenteeism associated with ILI. The questionnaire was distributed through online and print newsletters of the Australian Veterinary Association NSW Branch and the NSW Veterinary Practitioners Board. From a total of 122 participants, 81 veterinarians (66.4%) reported that they would attend work despite displaying symptoms of ILI. Most veterinarians would stay at home with a fever alone (n = 108, 88.5%), however, many would still attend work with a sore throat (n = 121, 99.2%) or a dry cough (n = 91, 74.6%). Sickness presenteeism was significantly associated with lack of staff to cover workers. Although sickness presenteeism remained common, participants reported that they were less likely to attend work with symptoms of ILI since the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The data are discussed in relation to sickness presenteeism in healthcare workers. These findings underscore an urgent need for relief staff to decrease sickness presenteeism.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2018
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 23-03-2022
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14072
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 07-07-2021
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14193
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2017.06.011
Abstract: Canine-rabies is endemic in parts of Indonesia and continues to spread eastwards through the Indonesian archipelago. Papua New Guinea (PNG) has a land border with Papua Province, Indonesia, as well as logging and fishing industry connections throughout Asia. PNG has a Human Development Index of 0.505 therefore, an incursion of canine-rabies could have devastating impacts on human (7.5 million) and animal populations. Given the known difficulties of rabies elimination in resource-scarce environments, an incursion of rabies into PNG would also likely compromise the c aign for global elimination of rabies. A previous qualitative study to determine routes for detailed risk assessment identified logging, fishing and three land-routes (unregulated crossers ["shopper-crossers"], traditional border crossers and illegal hunters) as potential high risk routes for entry of rabies-infected dogs into PNG. The objective of the current study was to quantify and compare the probability of entry of a rabies-infected dog via these routes into PNG and to identify the highest risk provinces and border districts to target rabies prevention and control activities. Online questionnaires were used to elicit expert-opinion about quantitative model parameter values. A quantitative, stochastic model was then used to assess risk, and parameters with the greatest influence on the estimated mean number of rabies-infected dogs introduced/year were identified via global sensitivity analysis (Sobol method). Eight questionnaires - including 7 online - were implemented and >220 empirical distributions were parameterised using >2900 expert-opinions. The highest risk provinces for combined sea routes were West Sepik, Madang and Western Province, driven by the number of vessels and the probability of bringing dogs. The highest risk border districts for combined land routes were Vanimo-Green River and South Fly, driven by the number of people crossing the border and the number of dogs (with hunters). Overall, the risk posed by land routes was much higher than the risk of rabies introduction by sea routes. This study provides a foundation to develop targeted border control measures, surveillance and response strategies for canine-rabies for the highest risk routes and regions in PNG. Sensitivity analysis using the Sobol method played a key role in this study and directed further data collection to refine risk estimates. The ease of expert-elicitation using online methods demonstrates the feasibility of using such methods for animal and human disease surveillance in PNG.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-2020
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12981
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-06-2020
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12983
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2013.10.016
Abstract: We describe stakeholder preference modelling using a combination of new and recently developed techniques to elicit criterion weights to incorporate into a multi-criteria decision analysis framework to prioritise exotic diseases for the pig industry in Australia. Australian pig producers were requested to rank disease scenarios comprising nine criteria in an online questionnaire. Parallel coordinate plots were used to visualise stakeholder preferences, which aided identification of two erse groups of stakeholders - one group prioritised diseases with impacts on livestock, and the other group placed more importance on diseases with zoonotic impacts. Probabilistic inversion was used to derive weights for the criteria to reflect the values of each of these groups, modelling their choice using a weighted sum value function. Validation of weights against stakeholders' rankings for scenarios based on real diseases showed that the elicited criterion weights for the group who prioritised diseases with livestock impacts were a good reflection of their values, indicating that the producers were able to consistently infer impacts from the disease information in the scenarios presented to them. The highest weighted criteria for this group were attack rate and length of clinical disease in pigs, and market loss to the pig industry. The values of the stakeholders who prioritised zoonotic diseases were less well reflected by validation, indicating either that the criteria were inadequate to consistently describe zoonotic impacts, the weighted sum model did not describe stakeholder choice, or that preference modelling for zoonotic diseases should be undertaken separately from livestock diseases. Limitations of this study included s ling bias, as the group participating were not necessarily representative of all pig producers in Australia, and response bias within this group. The method used to elicit criterion weights in this study ensured value trade-offs between a range of potential impacts, and that the weights were implicitly related to the scale of measurement of disease criteria. Validation of the results of the criterion weights against real diseases - a step rarely used in MCDA - added scientific rigour to the process. The study demonstrated that these are useful techniques for elicitation of criterion weights for disease prioritisation by stakeholders who are not disease experts. Preference modelling for zoonotic diseases needs further characterisation in this context.
Publisher: PAGEPress Publications
Date: 03-07-2023
DOI: 10.4081/GH.2023.1151
Abstract: Few studies have considered the impacts of s le size and s le ratio of presence and absence points on the results of random forest (RF) testing. We applied this technique for the prediction of the spatial distribution of snail habitats based on a total of 15,000 s le points (5,000 presence s les and 10,000 control points). RF models were built using seven different s le ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1) and the optimal ratio was identified via the Area Under the Curve (AUC) statistic. The impact of s le size was compared by RF models under the optimal ratio and the optimal s le size. When the s le size was small, the s ling ratios of 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3 were significantly better than the s le ratios of 4:1 and 3:1 at all four levels of s le sizes (p .01) and there was no significant difference among the ratios of 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3 (p .05). The s le ratio of 1:2 appeared to be optimal for a relatively large s le size with the lowest quartile deviation. In addition, increasing the s le size produced a higher AUC and a smaller slope and the most suitable s le size found in this study was 2400 (AUC=0.96). This study provides a feasible idea to select an appropriate s le size and s le ratio for ecological niche modelling (ENM) and also provides a scientific basis for the selection of s les to accurately identify and predict snail habitat distributions.
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 16-09-1970
DOI: 10.1101/2021.09.13.21263377
Abstract: Wet markets are important for food security in many regions worldwide but have come under scrutiny due to their potential role in the emergence of infectious diseases. The sale of live wildlife has been highlighted as a particular risk, and the World Health Organisation has called for the banning of live, wild-caught mammalian species in markets unless risk assessment and effective regulations are in place. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a global scoping review of peer-reviewed information about the sale of live, terrestrial wildlife in markets that are likely to sell fresh food, and collated data about the characteristics of such markets, activities involving live wildlife, the species sold, their purpose, and animal, human, and environmental health risks that were identified. Of the 59 peer-reviewed records within scope, only 25% (n = 14) focussed on disease risks the rest focused on the impact of wildlife sale on conservation. Although there were some global patterns (for ex le, the types of markets and purpose of sale of wildlife), there was wide ersity and huge epistemic uncertainty in all aspects associated with live, terrestrial wildlife sale in markets such that the feasibility of accurate assessment of the risk of emerging infectious disease associated with live wildlife trade in markets is limited. Given the value of both wet markets and wildlife trade and the need to support food affordability and accessibility, conservation, public health, and the social and economic aspects of livelihoods of often vulnerable people, there are major information gaps that need to be addressed to develop evidence-based policy in this environment. This review identifies these gaps and provides a foundation from which information for risk assessments can be collected.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-02-2022
DOI: 10.3390/ANI12050560
Abstract: Background: During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many veterinary practices around the world have shifted to a low or no-contact consultation model to ensure the safety of their team members and clients, and comply with public health orders, while continuing to provide veterinary care. Methods: We performed reflexive thematic analysis on a subset of data collected using a mixed-methods survey of veterinary team members globally. Results: There were 540 valid responses available for analysis. Low and no-contact euthanasia we raised as a common and/or stressful ethical challenge for 22.8% of respondents. We identified five key themes: no-contact euthanasia as a unique ethical challenge balancing veterinary team safety with the emotional needs of clients low and no-contact protocols may cause or exacerbate fear, anxiety and distress in veterinary patients physical distancing was more challenging during euthanasia consultations and biosecurity measures complicated communication around euthanasia and end-of-life decision making. Recommendations: In light of concerns highlighted by respondents, we recommend the development of a toolkit of protocols that will assist veterinary team members in performing low-contact euthanasia in a range of circumstances, in alignment with their values and professional ethical codes. Professional bodies may be involved in developing, updating and disseminating this information, and ensuring a continuous supply chain of PPE.
Publisher: PAGEPress Publications
Date: 12-11-2018
DOI: 10.4081/GH.2018.730
Abstract: Schistosomiasis remains a major public health problem in the South China, particularly in lake and marshland regions. Modelling the spatio-temporal pattern of schistosomiasis guides disease prevention and control programs and is a research area of growing interest. However, few attempts have been made to evaluate the changing (nonlinear) effects of environmental determinants on schistosomiasis. In this context, a hierarchical spatiotemporal model was applied to evaluate how environmental determinants affect the changing trend of schistosomiasis in Anhui Province, China, based on annual parasitological and environmental data for the period 1997-2010. Results showed that – compared to changing effect – environmental factors had a constant (linear) effect on schistosomiasis. The disease was also found to fluctuate over time, which was due to the two latest national schistosomiasis control programs. In addition to statistical benefits of this approach, our analysis implied that climate change might not contribute to variation of schistosomiasis rather, prevention activities affect schistosomiasis when the disease prevalence remains at a low level. Finally, the analytical method proposed in our study provides a template for modelling the spatio-temporal pattern of a disease whose transmission is largely determined by environmental determinants.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 17-04-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-01-2022
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13148
Abstract: Canine leptospirosis has not been reported in the Sydney dog population since 1976. However, between 2017 and 2020, leptospirosis was confirmed in 17 dogs, five of which were known to hunt rodents. Dogs infected between 2017 and 2019 lived within a 3 km radius in the Inner City of Sydney (n = 11). In 2020, cases emerged across a broader area of Sydney Inner City (n = 1), Inner West (n = 3), Lower North Shore (n = 1) and Upper North Shore (n = 1). The disease was characterised by severe hepatorenal involvement resulting in an unusually high case fatality rate (88%). In conjunction with supportive clinical signs, diagnosis was confirmed by real‐time PCR on whole blood (n = 1), kidney (n = 1), urine (n = 4), whole blood and urine (n = 9) or by seroconversion (n = 3). Antibody titres determined by Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) to Leptospira serovars were measured in 12 dogs: seven were positive for serovar Copenhageni, one was positive for serovar Hardjo, three were negative for all serovars, likely due to insufficient time for seroconversion before death and one had a low positive titre (1/50) for serovars Australis and Robinsoni. This sudden emergence of a highly fatal disease in pet dogs in Sydney has led to the introduction of Leptospira vaccination protocols for dogs living in inner Sydney using a monovalent vaccine containing serovar Copenhageni. The success of this vaccination program will require ongoing research to understand the emergence of leptospirosis in this region and the serovars involved.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 16-01-2012
DOI: 10.1111/J.1865-1682.2012.01305.X
Abstract: In August 2007, Australia experienced its first-ever outbreak of equine influenza, a highly infectious respiratory disease of horses. Although the outbreak spread over a large geographic area, it was eradicated within 5 months following a substantial disease control effort led by federal and state animal health authorities. Despite its timely control, this large-scale outbreak caused severe impacts on horse owners and industry participants. This study aimed to describe the perceptions of horse owners and managers, impacted by outbreak control measures, regarding the state government's animal health authority outbreak management. Participants were interviewed face-to-face. Factors associated with ordinal ratings of perception ('well managed', 'adequately managed' and 'poorly managed') were identified using ordinal logistic regression. Factors significantly associated with a reduced likelihood of 'well-managed' outbreak response ratings, adjusted for age and gender, were being involved in horse competitions/sporting events (OR = 0.48 95% CI: 0.25-0.91), managing a horse stud (OR = 0.09 95% CI: 0.03-0.28) and believing that another outbreak of equine influenza was highly likely in the next 5 years (OR = 0.29 95% CI: 0.12-0.68). Possible reasons for these ratings were further investigated using content analyses. Outbreak communications and government efficiency/support were mentioned most frequently as both strengths (30% and 28%, respectively) and weaknesses (40% and 30%, respectively) of the outbreak management. To promote manager-government rapport and future compliance with disease control regulations, we recommend that outbreak communications and outbreak information systems be reviewed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2014.01.016
Abstract: Highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) has spread through parts of south-east Asia, posing a risk to Australia. The objective of this study was to assess the probability of infection of a feral or domestic pig in Australia with highly pathogenic PRRS following ingestion of illegally imported raw pork. A conservative scenario was considered in which 500 g of raw pork was imported from the Philippines into Australia without being detected by border security, then discarded from a household and potentially accessed by a pig. Monte Carlo simulation of a two-dimensional, stochastic model was used to estimate the probability of entry and exposure, and the probability of infection was assessed by incorporating a virus-decay and mechanistic dose-response model. Results indicated that the probability of infection of a feral pig after ingestion of raw meat was higher than the probability of infection of a domestic pig. Sensitivity analysis was used to assess the influence of input parameters on model output probability estimates, and extension of the virus-decay and dose-response model was used to explore the impact of different temperatures and time from slaughter to ingestion of the meat, different weights of meat, and the level of viraemia at slaughter on the infectivity of meat. Parameters with the highest influence on the model output were the level of viraemia of a pig prior to slaughter and the probability of access by a feral pig to food-waste discarded on property surrounding a household. Extension of the decay and dose-response model showed that small pieces of meat (10 g) from a highly pathogenic PRRS viraemic pig could contain enough virus to have a high probability of infection of a pig, and that routes to Australia by sea or air from all highly pathogenic PRRS virus endemic countries were of interest dependent on the temperature of the raw meat during transport. This study highlighted the importance of mitigation strategies such as disposal of food-waste from international traffic as quarantine waste, and the need for further research into the probability of access to food-waste on properties by feral pigs.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.INHE.2012.03.005
Abstract: Community knowledge, attitudes and practices are important both for prevention of human deaths due to rabies and for control of the disease in animals. This study was a cross-sectional survey investigating the level of community knowledge as well as attitudes and perceptions about rabies in Gelephu, south-central Bhutan, a region endemic for rabies. A total of 615 household respondents were interviewed, of which 224 (36%) were male and 391 (64%) were female. The majority of respondents had a high level of knowledge, attitudes and perception of rabies and had a positive attitude towards the prevention and control of rabies. Multivariate logistic regression modelling showed that better knowledge of rabies was predicted by gender, educational level and dog ownership status of respondents, whilst health-seeking behaviour of animal bite injuries was predicted by dog ownership status, presence of children in the household and occupation of the respondents. The majority of respondents believed that stray dogs are a problem in the community and felt that it was important to control the dog population in Gelephu. These findings also indicate that there exists a knowledge gap about rabies in the community that could be improved by creating an awareness education programme.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.VPRSR.2017.10.008
Abstract: To estimate the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis and risk factors for seropositivity in sheep, goats and cattle in Dhaka, Mymensingh, Sirajganj and Chittagong districts in Bangladesh, 1104 sera s les (552 sheep, 300 goats and 252 cattle) were randomly selected and tested by an indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). The overall seroprevalence was 12.2% (135/1104), and was significantly (P=0.008) higher in goats (16.0%) than cattle (8.3%). The odds of seropositivity was 2.09 times (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23-3.67) higher in goats than cattle. In sheep, herd type, district and pregnancy status were significant risk factors. The odds of seropositivity was 2.1 (95% CI: 1.00-4.84), 7.29 (95% CI: 12.71-423.41) and 10.88 (95% CI: 5.42-23.41 times higher in sheep-only flocks, in Mymensingh district and in pregnant sheep than in mixed flocks, Chittagong district and non-pregnant sheep, respectively. In cattle, breeds and district were significant risk factors. The odds of seropositivity was 5.79 (95% CI: 1.13-24.62) and 4.29 (95% CI: 1.38-16.34) times higher in Holstein Friesian cross cattle and in Mymensingh district than in indigenous cattle and Chittagong district, respectively. This study indicates that exposure of sheep, goats and cattle to oocysts of T. gondii is widespread, suggesting that the consumption of raw and undercooked meat of these animals might be a source of human toxoplasmosis. Risk factor information can be used to design control programs to reduce exposure.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 19-06-2020
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13654
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-12-2020
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12677
Abstract: Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a serious public health concern and in Australia, one that disproportionately affects Aboriginal people. Paralleling MRSA in human medicine, methicillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) is an increasingly prevalent pathogen in veterinary medicine. We aimed to characterize the carriage of MRSA and MRSP in dogs and cats from predominantly Aboriginal communities in a very remote region of New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Pets (303 dogs and 80 cats) were recruited from six communities in western NSW. Three swabs were collected from each animal (anterior nares, oropharynx and perineum) and from skin lesions or wounds (if present) and cultured on selective media for methicillin-resistant staphylococci. Human host-adapted community-associated MRSA representing four multilocus sequence types (ST1-IV, ST5-IV, ST72-IV, ST93-IV) were isolated from eight dogs (prevalence 2.6%, 95% confidence interval 1.3%-5.1%). Two ST5-IV isolates from a single dog were phenotypically trimethoprim-resistant, harbouring trimethoprim-resistant gene dfrG within the SCCmec type IVo mobile genetic element. MRSA was not isolated from any cats and MRSP was not isolated from any dogs or cats. This study estimated a high prevalence of human host-adapted community-associated MRSA carriage in dogs despite an absence of MRSP. This suggests MRSA carried by dogs in remote NSW originate from human hosts. The cycle of transmission between people, dogs and common environmental sources warrants further investigation. To our knowledge, this is the first report of trimethoprim-resistant ST5-IV in eastern Australia and the first report of trimethoprim-resistant ST5-IV from a dog.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2020
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-10-2021
DOI: 10.3390/ANI11113010
Abstract: Advanced veterinary care (AVC) of companion animals may yield improved clinical outcomes, improved animal welfare, improved satisfaction of veterinary clients, improved satisfaction of veterinary team members, and increased practice profitability. However, it also raises ethical challenges. Yet, what counts as AVC is difficult to pinpoint due to continuing advancements. We discuss some of the challenges in defining advanced veterinary care (AVC), particularly in relation to a standard of care (SOC). We then review key ethical challenges associated with AVC that have been identified in the veterinary ethics literature, including poor quality of life, dysthanasia and caregiver burden, financial cost and accessibility of veterinary care, conflicts of interest, and the absence of ethical review for some patients undergoing AVC. We suggest some strategies to address these concerns, including prospective ethical review utilising ethical frameworks and decision-making tools, the setting of humane end points, the role of regulatory bodies in limiting acceptable procedures, and the normalisation of quality-of-life scoring. We also suggest a role for retrospective ethical review in the form of ethics rounds and clinical auditing. Our discussion reenforces the need for a spectrum of veterinary care for companion animals.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2018.02.044
Abstract: In Australia, tick paralysis in dogs (caused by a toxin in the saliva of Ixodes species during feeding) is a serious, distressing condition, and untreated it is often fatal. The aim of this study was to quantify the association between parkland (recreational or natural) in an urban area and the occurrence of canine tick paralysis. Brisbane, as a large urban centre located within the zone of paralysis tick habitat along the east coast of Australia, was selected as the study area. Postcodes selected for inclusion were those defined as being of an urban character (Australian Bureau of Statistics). The number of natural and recreational parkland polygons and total land area per postcode were derived. Tick paralysis case data for the selected postcodes were extracted from a national companion animal disease surveillance database. Between October 2010 and January 2017, 1650 cases of tick paralysis in dogs were reported and included in this study. Significant correlations were found between the number of reported cases per postcode and parklands: natural counts, 0.584 (P < 0.0001) natural area, 0.293 (P = 0.0075) recreational counts, 0.297 (P = 0.0151) and recreational area, 0.241 (P = 0.0286). Four disease clusters were also detected within the study area. All of these were located on the edges of the study area - either coastal or on the urban fringe no clusters were identified within the core urban zone of the study area. Of the disease cases included in this study, strong seasonality was evidence: 68% of all cases were identified in spring. Within urban environments, areas of natural vegetation in particular appear to pose a risk for tick paralysis in dogs. This evidence can be used by veterinarians and dog owners to reduce the impact of tick paralysis by raising awareness of risk areas so as to enhance prevention via chemoprophylaxis and targeted searches of pet dogs for attached ticks.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 10-05-2023
DOI: 10.1155/2023/5151813
Abstract: African swine fever (ASF) is a devastating transboundary disease of swine. Following the first report of ASF in China in August 2018, ASF spread through South-East Asian nations in 2019. Without control and containment measures, ASF can decimate smallholder pig holdings and disrupt value chains. This study aimed to describe the spatiotemporal spread of the 2019 Lao PDR ASF epidemic in domestic pigs, identify environmental (protected areas and forests), production (pig ownership), transportation (roads), and social (poverty and ethnicity) risk factors, and recommend measures that could reduce ASF spread. A retrospective spatiotemporal study was conducted at the village level. Information on the date that ASF was first reported from each case location was collected, and the outcome variable of interest “epidemic day” was created. Risk factor information from different sources was extracted for each case location. The association or correlation between epidemic day and risk factors for the spread of ASF was investigated using Kruskal–Wallis tests and Spearman rank correlation statistics. The epidemic started on June 16 and lasted for 190 days, displaying a right-skewed epidemic curve. The directional distribution was rotated approximately 305°, from Southeast to Northwest Laos. Significant risk factors for ASF associated with epidemic day were location in terms of distance from the closest protected natural area P = 0.020 , pig ownership P = 0.005 , road networks P = 0.003 , and poverty indices P 0.001 . Cases were reported earlier in this epidemic at locations that were closer to protected natural areas, of higher pig ownership, more connected via the national road network, and which experienced elevated poverty. The spatiotemporal pattern described suggests that ASF was introduced via infected pigs from Vietnam. Based on study findings, recommendations for smallholder pig production in Southeast Asia include improving knowledge of swine value chains to inform disease risk and control, monitoring pig transportation, implementing stricter biosecurity measures on the domestic pig population, and providing biosecurity support and education to smallholder pig farmers in poverty.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2014.01.010
Abstract: Since the global spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 during 2005-2006, control programs have been successfully implemented in most affected countries. HPAI H5N1 was first reported in Bangladesh in 2007, and since then 546 outbreaks have been reported to the OIE. The disease has apparently become endemic in Bangladesh. Spatio-temporal information on 177 outbreaks of HPAI H5N1 occurring between February 2010 and April 2011 in Bangladesh, and 37 of these outbreaks in which isolated H5N1 viruses were phylogenetically characterized to clade, were analyzed. Three clades were identified, 2.2 (21 cases), 2.3.4 (2 cases) and 2.3.2.1 (14 cases). Clade 2.2 was identified throughout the time period and was widely distributed in a southeast-northwest orientation. Clade 2.3.2.1 appeared later and was generally confined to central Bangladesh in a north-south orientation. Based on a direction test, clade 2.2 viruses spread in a southeast-to-northwest direction, whereas clade 2.3.2.1 spread west-to-east. The magnitude of spread of clade 2.3.2.1 was greater relative to clade 2.2 (angular concentration 0.2765 versus 0.1860). In both cases, the first outbreak(s) were identified as early outliers, but in addition, early outbreaks (one each) of clade 2.2 were also identified in central Bangladesh and in northwest Bangladesh, a considerable distance apart. The spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 in Bangladesh is characterized by reported long-distance translocation events. This poses a challenge to disease control efforts. Increased enforcement of biosecurity and stronger control of movements between affected farms and susceptible farms, and better surveillance and reporting, is needed. Although the movement of poultry and equipment appears to be a more likely explanation for the patterns identified, the relative contribution of trade and the market chain versus wild birds in spreading the disease needs further investigation.
Publisher: Authorea, Inc.
Date: 09-09-2022
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 30-01-2020
Abstract: Objective The aim of this study was to determine the effect of femoral position on radiographic assessment of completeness of femoral head and neck excision (FHNE) in cats. Study Design The study included 20 femurs from adult cats. Complete FHNE was performed on 10 femurs and incomplete excision consisting of inadequate excision of the distal medial femoral neck was performed on 10 femurs. The lesser trochanter was maintained in all femurs. Each femur was positioned through a predetermined set of eight radiographic views about the long axis. Sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP) and accuracy were calculated for each femoral position. Results Craniocaudal views of the femur in external rotation (30° and 45°) had the highest SE, SP and accuracy (SE: 97.5% and 97.5% SP: 92.5% and 95% and accuracy: 95% and 96%, respectively) followed by external rotation of 15 (SE: 92.5%, SP: 87.5% and accuracy: 90%) relative to standard craniocaudal (SE: 57.5%, SP: 72.5%, accuracy: 65%) and lateromedial (SE: 2.5%, SP: 0%, accuracy: 1%) radiographic views. Conclusions Evaluation of craniocaudal radiographic views with the femurs in external rotation can increase the ability to assess the adequacy of the FHNE in cats.
Publisher: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Date: 12-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2019.104774
Abstract: Australia is free of canine rabies, however northern regions - such as the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA), Queensland - are at risk of an incursion from nearby rabies-infected Indonesian islands. Early detection and reactive vaccination is the current Australian policy to eradicate an incursion. Early detection in this region is challenging, so pre-emptive vaccination might be an effective strategy. The NPA dog population also has a heterogenous contact structure, with three roaming categories previously characterised, which could be exploited in targeted pre-emptive vaccination strategies for more efficient use of limited resources. To evaluate the effectiveness of a pre-emptive vaccination program, an agent-based rabies spread simulation model was used to simulate outbreaks with a range of pre-emptive vaccination coverages. Increasing proportions (10% increments) of the dog population randomly vaccinated were modelled, and at the most efficient random vaccination coverage we then explored 10 pre-emptive vaccination strategies targeting different dog roaming categories (whilst maintaining the same overall population level vaccination coverage). All pre-emptive vaccination strategies were simulated 2000 times without and with a 70% random reactive vaccination strategy, following rabies detection. All random pre-emptive vaccination coverages reduced outbreak size and duration compared to no pre-emptive vaccination. A 40% random coverage was most efficient. Targeted strategies that pre-emptively vaccinated proportionally more roaming dogs were more effective than a random 40% vaccination coverage and strategies that targeted non-roaming dogs. The pre-emptive vaccination strategies that targeted non-roaming dogs produced significantly larger and longer outbreaks. These results suggest that pre-emptive vaccination can reduce potential rabies outbreaks in this region and that such a strategy should not just focus on easily accessible dogs that do not roam often or at all. A cost-benefit analysis is required to determine whether the implementation of such pre-emptive vaccination strategies is also cost-effective, which is essential in the resource-poor communities of this region.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 12-2009
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2014.01.009
Abstract: Rabies continues to spread through the Indonesian archipelago. During the past 20 years, several islands - including Flores, Ambon and Bali - that had historically been free of rabies have become infected. However, the Dutch East Indies (a Dutch colony that became modern Indonesia following World War II) had been infected since the 1880s. The spread of rabies is a lesson in the emergence of an infectious disease. Reports of human cases treated for rabies and livestock rabies cases from the 1880s to 1917 were compiled. The spatial and temporal distribution of these cases was analyzed using maps, spatial statistics and time-series techniques. The first confirmed case of rabies was reported in 1889 from the Batavia [Jakarta] district (although disease suspicion was reported as early as 1884). During the 1890s rabies was already commonly reported from Java and the east coast of Sumatra, and by the late 1890s, from Celebes [Sulawesi]. Between 1900 and 1916, cases were reported from other parts of Java, Sumatra and Sulawesi, and from Borneo, the Moluccas and other outlying islands. Between 1897 and 1916, a total of 8826 human cases treated for rabies were reported and between 1908 and 1917, 1033 livestock cases were reported. Most (97.5%) human cases treated were attributed to rabid dogs. Increasing numbers of reports were observed during the period. Between 1908 and 1916 the correlation between human and livestock case reports was 64.2%, and at the district level it was 75.9%. Moderate correlations (>40%) were found between human cases and livestock cases reported up to six months previously. Based on year of first report from each district, human cases were strongly clustered (Moran's autocorrelation 0.47, P=0.005). The most likely spatio-temporal cluster of reported cases of humans treated for rabies originated from the west coast of Sumatra between 1899 and 1905, and other clusters were identified in west Java (1898-1899), the district of Batavia and in east Java (1910-1911), Nusa Tengarra Barat (1912), Borneo (1914) and the east coast of Sumatra (1903-1906). Rabies was probably first introduced to the colonial capital of the Dutch Indies, Batavia [Jakarta] in the 1880s. It then spread rapidly throughout most of the archipelago during the next two to three decades because of the movement of dogs via the military forces, for trade and as pets, despite government regulations designed to control the epidemic. Such a history suggests that further emergence and reemergence of rabies in rabies-free islands will occur based on an island's location and position within the complex social, trade and transport network that represents the Indonesian archipelago. Targeted surveillance and enforcement of quarantine regulations remain critical, to prevent history repeating itself.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 22-02-2017
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-05-2012
DOI: 10.1111/J.1863-2378.2012.01489.X
Abstract: Rabies is a serious public health problem in Asia. It causes substantial animal welfare, economic and human health impacts, with approximately 39,000 human deaths each year. Domestic dogs are the main reservoir and source of rabies in Asia. Common constraints for the control of rabies in the countries of Asia include inadequate resources lack of political commitment to control programs lack of consensus on strategy weak intersectoral coordination and inadequate management structure insensitive surveillance systems limited accessibility to modern rabies vaccine and supply problems lack of public awareness and public cooperation and the existence of myths and religious issues. In this review, we summarize the epidemiology of rabies in both human and animals in each South and South East Asian country, the past and current approaches to control and the prospect for rabies elimination. We conclude that defining the cost of rabies to society and communicating this to decisionmakers might be the key to achieving such an advance.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-2023
DOI: 10.3390/MICROORGANISMS11071731
Abstract: Leptospirosis is an emerging disease among people and dogs in Sydney, Australia. However, the routes of Leptospira transmission in these cases, and in particular the possible role of rats as reservoirs of infection in Sydney, are unknown. Rats were collected within the City of Sydney Council area and their kidneys were tested for pathogenic Leptospira DNA by real-time (q)PCR. A subset of rats also had qPCR testing performed on whole blood and urine, and Microscopic Agglutination Testing (MAT) that included a panel of 10 Leptospira serovars from nine different Leptospira serogroups was performed on a subset of serum s les. Based on qPCR testing, the proportion of rats with Leptospira DNA in their kidneys was 9/111 (8.1%). qPCR testing of blood s les (n = 9) and urine (n = 4) was negative. None of the 10 serum s les tested MAT positive. A primary cluster of qPCR-positive locations was detected based on six infected rats, which partially overlapped with a previously identified cluster of canine leptospirosis cases in Sydney. These findings suggest that rats in Sydney might play a role in the transmission of leptospirosis to dogs and people. Further testing of rats in Sydney and investigation into other possible wildlife reservoirs of infection and environmental sources of leptospires are needed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-07-2019
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12845
Abstract: To measure the stress levels of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) students at the University of Sydney using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) questionnaire. DVM students in years 1 to 4 were surveyed in semester 2 of 2018. The voluntary online survey consisted of 6 demographic questions and the K10 scale, a standardised measure of stress commonly used in Australia by medical practitioners for evaluation and referral to mental health professionals. Academic year cohorts were compared to identify differences in stress levels. Cohorts were compared to published K10 scores from various populations including the Australian public, medical students, practicing veterinarians, and Junior Medical Officers (JMOs). The response rate was 54.4% (n = 237). DVM students experienced a higher level of psychological distress (mean 24, median 23, range 10-50) than the Australian population (mean 14.5, median 13, range 10-50), medical students (mean 18.4, median 16, range 10-50), practicing veterinarians (mean 16.7, median 15.5, range 10-30), and JMOs (mean 18.1, median 16, range 10-50). Female students (median 23) had a significantly higher level of psychological distress compared to male students (median 18) (p = 0.0005). International students (median 23) had a higher level of psychological stress than domestic students (median 22) (p = 0.0488). Different year cohorts, age range, work hours, and exercise were not associated with difference in stress levels. Based on higher levels of stress in DVM students than that of the general population, practicing veterinarians, JMOs and medical students, there is an urgent need for evidence-based interventions to target stress in DVM students.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 31-08-2017
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 22-12-2021
Abstract: Veterinary team members encounter a wide range of ethically challenging situations (ECS) in their work. Inability to resolve ECS in accordance with their values may negatively impact the wellbeing of veterinary team members. We sought to determine the types of ECS described in published ethical vignettes in the veterinary literature. We performed a strategic literature search, followed by a thematic analysis of vignettes published in the veterinary literature from 1990–2020. We identified 567 published vignettes in 544 publications. In the majority of vignettes, the protagonist was a veterinarian (61.6%) and the most common categories of animal involved were dogs (28.0%), livestock in general (10.8%), and cattle (10.6%). The primary type of ECS was coded for each scenario, generating 29 themes. These findings extend knowledge about types of ECS that may be encountered by veterinary team members. These themes can help to inform curricula and better prepare veterinary team members to navigate ECS. They may also highlight factors that contribute to ECS that can be addressed on a broad scale, such as through regulation, continuing professional development, or stakeholder education. Knowing that others may experience similar ECS may help veterinary team members feel part of a moral community.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 18-02-2019
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12568
Abstract: In August 2015, a rabies outbreak occurred in bovines in a Punjab village, India subsequently, a farmer in the same village died of rabies in October 2015. We surveyed farmers to describe the outbreak, the demographics and rabies prophylaxis administered to householders on case farms, and farmers' knowledge of rabies prevention and treatment. We used multiple correspondence analysis to guide investigation of associations between demographics, farm status and rabies knowledge, attitudes and practices. The number of affected bovines was unusually high 15 cattle and buffalo died on 13 smallholder farms (attack rate 4%). Post-exposure vaccinations were administered to 24 people (median 2 doses). Affected farms had significantly larger households and were more likely to keep their livestock outside (therefore, accessible by stray dogs), suggesting that the impact of the outbreak was disproportionally borne by households of lower socio-economic status. Primary sources of rabies information were friends and neighbours, not health authorities or media. Women who had not received formal education were less likely to have heard of rabies. Although case farm participants were more likely to have heard about rabies from a veterinarian, their knowledge and practices to prevent rabies did not reflect the level expected considering their contact with a health professional they were more likely to believe that traditional remedies prevent rabies and less likely to tell their children to avoid playing with stray dogs than participants from other farms. This study highlights knowledge dissemination disparities that, if typical of rural locations, could obstruct attempts to eliminate canine-mediated human rabies in India. Therefore, understanding the pervasiveness and influence of traditional medical beliefs on treatment-seeking behaviour, communication structures within villages and the impact of local practices such as carcass disposal on dog populations will be essential to ensure that rabies control strategies are effective in rural India.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-06-2020
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12957
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 17-08-2020
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13766
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-08-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S13071-021-04896-Y
Abstract: Canine heartworm ( Dirofilaria immitis ) is a life-threatening infection of dogs with a global distribution. Information on the prevalence of D . immitis and associated risk factors for canine heartworm antigen positivity—and thus disease—in Australia is scarce or outdated. The current reference method for D . immitis diagnosis in dogs is via the detection of heartworm antigen in blood using commercially available microwell-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Heat treatment of canine plasma prior to testing has been suggested to increase test sensitivity. The aim of the current study was to estimate the prevalence of D . immitis in dogs confined to shelters in Queensland, Australia. The impact of heat treatment on antigen test results was also assessed. Blood s les ( n = 166) were collected directly from dogs in seven shelters across Queensland (latitudinal span of approx. 1700 km) into EDTA blood collection tubes. A commercially available ELISA (DiroCHEK®) was used to detect canine heartworm antigen in untreated and heat-treated plasma. Whole blood was concurrently tested for the presence of microfilariae and D . immitis DNA using a modified Knott’s test and real-time PCR, respectively. Risk factors (age, gender, source, location) associated with the odds of positivity for canine heartworm were assessed using binary logistic regression models. A total of 16 dogs (9.6% 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.9–15.2%) were positive for canine heartworm based on combined test results. Heat treatment did not impact on the positivity of D . immitis antigen within s les (Cohen’s kappa = 0.98), but the optical density was significantly increased in paired plasma s les for D . immitis antigen-positive s les (Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test, two-tailed P 0.01). Location of the dog in a shelter in northern Queensland was the only risk factor significantly associated with the odds of a dog being more likely to be D . immitis antigen positive (odds ratio: 4.39 95% CI: 1.26–13.51). All s les positive for the modified Knott’s test were also positive for D . immitis DNA by PCR. This study demonstrated the presence of heartworm-positive dogs in shelters in Queensland, with positive animals significantly more likely to occur in northern Queensland than southern Queensland. Sustained testing for the presence of D . immitis microfilariae and antigen remain important diagnostic tools in areas with known and re-emerging canine heartworm activity.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2003
DOI: 10.1016/S0167-5877(03)00059-X
Abstract: The effectiveness of a synthetic lure system to reduce the incidence of blowfly strike in sheep flocks was assessed, using randomised field trials. Four field trials used eight total groups of sheep randomised to treatment (flytrap) or control on two properties in southern Queensland between 1999 and 2001. Treatment consisted of the operation of flytraps in paddocks as per manufacturer's recommendations. All sheep were inspected physically each month for flystrikes. Flytraps were associated with a reduction in flystrike incidence of 38-55%, compared to control sheep. Results confirm that traps are a useful component of a flystrike-control program. The use of fly traps by a substantial proportion of woolgrowers could assist the Australian wool industry to meet targets of reduced pesticides on shorn wool.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 25-02-2020
DOI: 10.1111/TBED.13527
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12284
Abstract: To assess industry expert opinion on the likely occurrence of entry and exposure routes relevant to a potential incursion of highly pathogenic (HP) porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus from south-east Asia to Australia. Expert opinion elicitation of pig-industry stakeholders using a face-to-face questionnaire. Pig industry experts identified exposure routes involving the disposal of food waste to have the highest probability of occurrence. They were also concerned about the exposure of commercial pigs to humans acting as fomites of PRRS virus, and to feed and additives imported from south-east Asia. They did not consistently agree on the probability of occurrence of entry routes. This study demonstrated that the expert elicitation technique was useful in rapidly assessing opinion from a large group of pig industry experts regarding exposure of pigs in Australia to HP-PRRS virus. The results of this survey were used to direct a risk assessment of an incursion of HP-PRRS.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2012
Publisher: Authorea, Inc.
Date: 02-02-2021
DOI: 10.22541/AU.161225061.17768930/V1
Abstract: African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) causes a deadly disease of pigs which spread through southeast Asia in 2019. We investigated one of the first outbreaks of ASFV in Lao Peoples Democratic Republic amongst smallholder villages of Thapangtong District, Savannakhet Province. In this study, two ASFV affected villages were compared to two unaffected villages. Evidence of ASFV-like clinical signs appeared in pig herds as early as May 2019, with median epidemic days on 1 and 18 June in the two villages, respectively. Using participatory epidemiology mapping techniques, we found statistically significant spatial clustering in both outbreaks (P 0.001). Villagers reported known risk factors for ASFV transmission such as free-ranging management systems and wild boar access in all four villages. The villagers reported increased pig trader activity from Vietnam before the outbreaks however, the survey did not determine a single outbreak source. The outbreak caused substantial household financial losses with an average of 9 pigs lost to the disease, and Monte Carlo analysis estimated this to be USD 215 per household. ASFV poses a significant threat to food and financial security in smallholder communities such as Thapangtong, where 40.6% of the district’s population are affected by poverty. This study shows ASFV management in the region will require increased local government resources, knowledge of informal trader activity and wild boar monitoring alongside education and support to address intra-village risk factors such as free-ranging, correct waste disposal and swill feeding.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-03-2014
DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12160
Abstract: To evaluate the level of biosecurity training among Australian equine veterinarians and to assess their perceptions of biosecurity and infectious disease risk and their opinions about the management of the 2007 equine influenza (EI) outbreak. Cross-sectional study. A survey was conducted among equine veterinarians attending the 2010 annual conference of the Equine Veterinarians Australia (EVA) in New South Wales, Australia. Data were collected using a self-completed questionnaire and analysed using Fisher's exact tests to assess veterinarians' levels of biosecurity training, their perceptions of infectious disease and views regarding the 2007 EI outbreak management. A total of 46 of the 196 (23.5%) attending veterinarians completed the questionnaire. Significantly greater proportions of recently graduated veterinarians received theoretical and practical biosecurity training at veterinary schools than their older counterparts. The majority of respondents considered their likelihood of spreading infectious diseases from one client's horse to another to be low (84%). More than half (58%) of the veterinarians considered that hand-washing/wearing gloves was very effective in preventing disease spread. However, around one-quarter (27%) reported a degree of reservation about the practicality of performing general biosecurity practices in everyday working life. Overall, veterinarians were satisfied with the EI outbreak response, but had mixed opinions about the control measures and communications used. Levels of biosecurity training and the frequency of biosecurity advice provided by veterinarians have increased over time, although the practicality of biosecurity practices is a concern for some veterinarians. Further investigations of the barriers to the use of various biosecurity practices are required in order to inform training programs.
Start Date: 10-2010
End Date: 10-2013
Amount: $240,000.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2012
End Date: 12-2017
Amount: $270,000.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded Activity