Veterinaria italiana最新文献

A case of mild Argulus sp. infestation was reported in 30 Oscar fish (Astronotus ocellatus). Infestation was managed with diflubenzuron (0.01 mg/L of water). Following the second treatment, six fish developed panexophthalmia, with three mortalities-two showing ascites. A single fish exhibiting clinical signs of ascites was successfully sampled, from which ascitic fluid, whole blood, and visceral organs were collected for subsequent laboratory analyses. Microbiological analysis of ascitic fluid identified Aeromonas hydrophila and Enterococcus faecalis, where A. hydrophila was sensitive to tetracycline and enrofloxacin and E. faecalis was sensitive to tetracycline but intermediate to enrofloxacin. Haematology revealed microcytic normochromic anemia, leukocytosis dominated by neutrophils/heterophils and monocytes, and lymphopenia. Histopathology showed severe secondary lamellar fusion in gills, granulomatous inflammation in multiple organs, hepatic degeneration, and mild other parasitic co-infection (Monogenean and Trichodina sp.). Elevated un-ionized ammonia (NH₃) was the only abnormal water quality parameter. Surviving symptomatic fish received intramuscular enrofloxacin (10 mg/kg body weight, 7 days) and topical water bandage application, resulting in full recovery in two cases and clinical improvement in the third. This case underscores that even mild Argulus sp. infestations can facilitate opportunistic bacterial infections under environmental stress, leading to systemic pathology. Integrated management combining parasite control, targeted antibiotic therapy, water quality improvement, and topical care can yield favorable outcomes in ornamental fish health.

Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) is a significant foodborne pathogen, posing a threat to public health. This study investigated the prevalence and genomic diversity of L. monocytogenes in 466 wild animals sampled across Central and Southern Italy (2017-2023), including species such as wild boar, red fox, and wolf, to assess their role as reservoirs and potential links to the food chain. Overall, 22.5% of the animals tested positive, and 118 L. monocytogenes strains were isolated, predominantly from wild boar (n=46), red fox (n=20), and Italian wolf (n=15). Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) analysis revealed high genomic diversity, classifying the strains into 27 Clonal Complexes (CCs) and 31 Sequence Types (STs). Both hypervirulent clones (e.g., CC1, CC6, CC207) and hypovirulent clones (e.g., CC9, CC19), known for their persistence, were identified, with wild boars harboring a majority of the hypervirulent isolates. All strains carried key virulence genes, and accessory virulence factors, particularly LIPI-3, were detected in hypervirulent strains. Persistence factors, such as the Stress Survival Islet 1 (SSI-1) and genes for metal/disinfectant resistance (cadA, qacA), were also detected, particularly in wild boar isolates. Crucially, core-genome MLST (cgMLST) analysis demonstrated direct genomic links between the wildlife isolates and the Italian National Reference Laboratory database. Multiple clusters were identified, connecting strains from wild animals (wild boars, foxes, wolves) with those from meat products, fresh salads, and food processing environments. A persistent CC9 cluster, circulating in the meat chain for seven years, was strongly correlated with wild boar isolates, underscoring the role of wildlife as a reservoir that continuously introduces both high-virulence and highly persistent strains into the food production system. These findings emphasize the necessity of integrating wildlife surveillance into public health strategies to mitigate the risk of zoonotic transmission, particularly through game meat consumption and handling.

A seroepidemiological survey was conducted between 2021 and 2025 to assess Leishmania infantum infection in domestic dogs from urban and rural areas in three provinces of eastern Algeria: Batna, Oum El Bouaghi, and Biskra. Blood samples were collected from 347 dogs and tested for anti-Leishmania antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The overall seroprevalence was 10.37%. Among seropositive dogs, 33.3% were asymptomatic, while 66.6% exhibited clinical signs, with emaciation being the most frequently observed symptom. Statistical analysis showed significant associations between seropositivity and several risk factors, including age, geographical area, clinical status, nutrition, province of origin, and lifestyle.

For the first time, Anisakidae larvae in commercially caught fish from the southwestern Ionian Sea off the Albanian coast were identified using molecular techniques. Atlantic horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) from the Vlora district were examined for parasitic infections. Enzymatic digestion revealed the presence of Anisakis spp. larvae, which were subsequently analysed at ISS Rome by multiplex PCR and PCR-RFLP. Molecular results confirmed the larvae as Anisakis pegreffii. This study provides the first molecular confirmation of Anisakis species in Albanian waters. The detection of Anisakis larvae highlights potential risks for seafood safety and public health, underlining the importance of regular monitoring and risk assessment in the region.

The study investigates the concentrations of five heavy metals in seven seafood species from the Gulf of Skikda, the southern Mediterranean Sea, Algeria. The aim is to assess contamination levels, and compliance with European food safety regulations. Between February and August 2018, muscle samples were collected from five fish species (Sardina pilchardus, Sarda sarda, Mugil cephalus, Xiphias gladius, Thunnus thynnus), the deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris), and the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis). Samples were oven-dried, acid-digested, and analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) for Cd, Pb, Fe and Zn; and by the flow injection hydride analysis system (FIAS) for Hg. Data were expressed in mg kg⁻¹ wet weight (ww) and statistically compared by one-way ANOVA (p≤0.05). The results revealed significant interspecies differences (p < 0.001) in metal accumulation patterns. Cd (0.139 mg·kg⁻¹ ww) and Hg (0.040 mg·kg⁻¹ ww) were significantly higher in grey mullet and tuna respectively (p < 0.001); both exceeding permissible regulatory limits. The remaining of heavy metals complied with guidelines. Mussels showed the highest Cd and Pb levels but remained within food safety limits. Sardines demonstrated a favorable nutritional profile, with high essential elements and low toxic metals. The study data recommend avoiding consumption of grey mullet and avoiding regular consumption of tuna caught in the fishing areas of Skikda Bay. Regular monitoring of heavy metal contamination in Algerian seafood is necessary to ensure consumer safety.

This study investigated the molecular features of Aujeszky's disease in a hunting dog from southern Italy. After consuming meat from infected wild boars, a 5-year-old male dog developed intense itching and died within 48 hours. Pseudorabies was suspected and necropsy was performed at the Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Apulia and Basilicata. SuHV-1 DNA was detected in the brain tissue, and the virus was isolated using Vero cells. Histological features and the analysis of genome sequencing revealed a non-suppurative meningoencephalitis caused by Aujeszky's disease. The yielded genome corresponded to a previously reported and unique genome (KU198433) isolated from a hunting dog in Italy. These findings improve understanding of pseudorabies's molecular epidemiology and help assess its epizootic potential.

Bluetongue virus (BTV) continues to pose a major threat to ruminant health in Europe, where repeated introductions, the co-circulation of multiple serotypes and frequent reassortment shape its genomic diversity. During 2024-2025, Italy experienced a marked resurgence of bluetongue, driven mainly by BTV-3 and BTV-8. In this study, we performed whole-genome sequencing of BTV-3, BTV-4 and BTV-8 strains collected in Italy during 2024-2025 and integrated these data with representative genomes from Italy and Tunisia generated over the previous decade. A total of 47 BTV whole-genome sequences were analysed. Multiple reassortant genomic constellations were identified among BTV-3 and BTV-4 strains, reflecting extensive segment exchange between North African and European lineages. In contrast, all Italian BTV-8 genomes showed near-complete nucleotide identity with the contemporary BTV-8 FRA 2023 lineage, indicating nationwide circulation of a single strain. Despite its widespread diffusion, BTV-8 did not acquire heterologous genome segments, whereas its internal genes were frequently incorporated into BTV-3 and BTV-4 genomic backgrounds. These findings highlight Italy as a key convergence point for BTV lineages in the Mediterranean basin and underscore the value of whole-genome surveillance for tracking viral introductions and reassortment dynamics.

Urban pigeon populations pose significant challenges in cities worldwide, contributing to structural damage, health concerns, and environmental imbalances. Since 2005, the Municipality of Genoa has implemented a targeted pigeon control programme utilising Nicarbazin, a sterilising agent that inhibits egg fertilisation. This study assesses the effectiveness of the sterilisation strategy in the Circonvallazione a Monte district from 2010 to 2017, analysing population trends and behavioural responses across various feeding points. Using a combination of statistical methods, including Duncan's test, ANOVA, and time series analysis, we identify significant declines in pigeon numbers and the emergence of distinct population dynamic patterns. Results indicate that while pharmacological sterilisation effectively reduces populations, its success varies depending on local environmental factors, nesting availability, and unauthorised feeding. The study suggests that an integrated approach, combining reproductive control with habitat modification and public awareness initiatives, is essential for long-term pigeon population management. Our findings contribute to the growing body of research on humane and sustainable urban wildlife control.

Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) remains a significant livestock disease in sub-Saharan Africa, with the T1/44 vaccine's heat-lability and reliance on cold-chain infrastructure limiting its efficacy in tropical regions. This study evaluated the thermotolerance and shelf-life of seven CBPP vaccine formulations containing different stabilizing agents. Seven different vaccine formulations, incorporating stabilizing agents such as lactalbumin, casein, gelatin, skimmed milk, maltose, and sucrose, were tested. The formulations were subjected to accelerated stability testing at temperatures of 4°C, 25°C, and 37°C over a 14-day period. The viability of Mycoplasma mycoides was assessed by measuring colony-forming units (CFU) at each time point. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA with a significance level of p < 0.05. All formulations showed a decrease in mycoplasma viability over time, with the most significant loss occurring at 37°C. Formulation 2 (Casein + Gelatin) showed the most promising results, with a stable mycoplasma count of 1.09×107 CFU/mL post-lyophilization and only minor reductions in CFU at various temperatures. After 14 days, Formulation 2 maintained the highest titres, with counts of 4.4×107 CFU/mL at 4°C, 1.2×106 CFU/mL at 25°C, and 8.0×106 CFU/mL at 37°C. Other formulations, such as Formulation 1 (Lactalbumin + Gelatin), Formulation 3 (Skimmed Milk), and Formulation 4 (Skimmed Milk + Maltose), showed moderate stability but experienced greater decreases in viability, particularly at elevated temperatures. For example, Formulation 3 (Skimmed Milk) had a significant decline in titre at 37°C, with counts falling to 1.05×105 CFU/mL by Day 14. Formulations 5, 6, and 7 (which included combinations of skimmed milk, sugars, and gelatin) showed poor stability at 37°C, with some formulations losing all viability at higher temperatures. This study highlights the effectiveness of casein and gelatin as stabilizers for enhancing the thermotolerance and shelf life of the T1/44 CBPP vaccine. These findings provide a valuable foundation for the development of more resilient CBPP vaccines that can be more widely used in resource-limited settings, especially in regions with unreliable cold-chain systems.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a severe zoonotic disease caused by the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), primarily transmitted by Hyalomma ticks. The virus has been detected in a wide range of domestic and wild animals, contributing to its persistence in endemic regions. However, felids of the Panthera genus have not been previously investigated in this context. The present study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of CCHFV antibodies in leopards (Panthera pardus; n=250; 1997-2017) and lions (Panthera leo; n=7; 2023) in Namibia using a commercial ELISA kit. CCHFV antibodies were detected in 36/250 leopards (14.40%; 95% CI: 10.59-19.29) and 3/7 lions (42.86%; 95% CI: 15.82-74.95). No tested animals had a known history of CCHFV-related clinical signs. Statistical analyses did not reveal significant temporal trends in seroprevalence. The presence of CCHFV antibodies in large felids suggests past exposure but does not confirm a definitive role in viral transmission. Further virological studies, including molecular detection and investigations of carcasses are needed to determine whether these species serve as viral reservoirs or dead-end hosts. Given the zoonotic potential of CCHFV and the role of wildlife in its epidemiology, increased surveillance is warranted. From a One Health perspective, awareness among veterinarians, caretakers, and conservationists is crucial. Vector control measures in livestock should be reinforced to limit spillover events between domestic animals, wildlife, and humans, particularly in the face of climate-driven tick expansion and the geographical spread of CCHFV.