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Bovine brucellosis, an infectious disease transmitted by Brucella melitensis and Brucella abortus, presents a significant zoonotic risk for agricultural economics and animal health. The primary objective of this study was to present a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence and features of Brucella strains within the industrial dairy farming sector in Iran. Rose Bengal plate test, standard agglutination test, and indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay tests were used to confirm all seropositive animals. A total number of 1,311 bovine samples from seropositive animals including were collected from 224 farms in 21 provinces of different regions of Iran and examined. The discovered Brucella isolates were phenotyped and molecularly characterized. The isolates were all B. abortus or B. melitensis. Bacteria analysis revealed that 70.53% of seropositive farms were tested positive for Brucella strains, predominantly B. melitensis biovar 1 (43.42%) and B. abortus biovar 3 (27.11%). Geographical distribution revealed that B. melitensis biovar 1 was the most common in dairy cow farms (16 provinces), followed by B. abortus biovar 3 (six provinces). Also, the prevalence of B. melitensis biovar 2, B. melitensis biovar 3, B. abortus biovar 1, B. abortus biovar 2 and RB51 vaccine were restricted to certain provinces. AMOS (abortus melitensis ovis suis)- polymerase chain reaction and Bruce-ladder PCR confirmed species identification. These results highlighted the complexity of bovine brucellosis in Iran and illustrated that B. melitensis was spread from small ruminants to cattle. This study provided important epidemiological insights for targeting future brucellosis control programs in the Iranian dairy farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis is a neglected zoonotic disease with significant public health impacts. It is primarily associated with classic Brucella species in mammals, but recent research has shown atypical Brucella strains in various hosts, including reptiles. Despite the known physiological differences between reptiles and humans, the rise in invasive reptile populations and other factors make reptiles and the pathogens they carry a potential public health concern. This study collected 90 venomous snakes from different regions in Iran and examined their liver samples, buccal, and cloaca cavities for Brucella spp. The samples underwent bacteriological analysis and DNA extraction. PCR amplification of the Omp28 gene and IS711-based PCR were used for the molecular identification of Brucella species. Subsequently, the Omp28 gene sequences were determined, and a phylogenetic tree was created. Brucella abortus was detected in the liver tissue of two snake species, namely Pseudocerastes persicus and Vipera albicornuta, at a prevalence rate of 2.2%. This finding is exceptional, as it has not been previously documented in venomous snake populations in the wild. The study confirms the presence of Brucella spp. in venomous snakes, suggesting the potential for zoonotic transmission. This discovery raises questions about the evolutionary forces shaping Brucella populations in reptiles. Understanding the prevalence and impact of Brucella in snakes is essential for wildlife conservation and assessing zoonotic risks. Proper safety measures are crucial when handling reptiles that may carry Brucella. Further research is needed to fill knowledge gaps regarding Brucella in these snake species and its potential zoonotic implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis is a common zoonotic disease in Iran. Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) Brucella isolates have been reported from different developing countries, posing an imminent health hazard. The objective of this study was to evaluate AMR and virulence-associated factors in Brucella isolates recovered from humans and animals in different regions of Iran using classical phenotyping and next generation sequencing (NGS) technology. Our findings revealed that B. melitensis is the most common species in bovines, small ruminants and camels. B. abortus was isolated only from one human case. Probable intermediate or resistant phenotype patterns for rifampicin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ampicillin-sulbactam and colistin were found. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) identified mprF, bepG, bepF, bepC, bepE, and bepD in all isolates but failed to determine other classical AMR genes. Forty-three genes associated with five virulence factors were identified in the genomes of all Brucella isolates, and no difference in the distribution of virulence-associated genes was found. Of them, 27 genes were associated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 12 genes were related to a type IV secretion system (virB1-B12), two were associated with the toll-interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domain-containing proteins (btpA, btpB), one gene encoded the Rab2 interacting conserved protein A (ricA) and one was associated with the production of cyclic β-1,2 glucans (cgs). This is the first investigation reporting the molecular-based AMR and virulence factors in brucellae isolated from different animal hosts and humans in Iran. Iranian B. abortus and B. melitensis isolates are still in vitro susceptible to the majority of antibiotics used for the treatment of human brucellosis. WGS failed to determine classical AMR genes and no difference was found in the distribution of virulence-associated genes in all isolates. Still, the absence of classical AMR genes in genomes of resistant strains is puzzling, and investigation of phenotypic resistance mechanisms at the proteomic and transcriptomic levels is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several vaccine candidates for COVID-19 have been developed, and few vaccines received emergency approval with an acceptable level of efficacy and safety. We herein report the development of the first recombinant protein-based vaccine in Iran based on the recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in its monomeric (encompassing amino acid 1-674 for S1 and 685-1211 for S2 subunits) and trimer form (S-Trimer) formulated in the oil-in-water adjuvant system RAS-01 (Razi Adjuvant System-01). The safety and immunity of the candidate vaccine, referred to as RAZI-COV PARS, were evaluated in Syrian hamster, BALB/c mice, Pirbright guinea pig, and New Zeeland white (NZW) rabbit. All vaccinated animals received two intramuscular (IM) and one intranasal (IN) candidate vaccine at 3-week intervals (days 0, 21, and 51). The challenge study was performed intranasally with 5×106 pfu of SARS-CoV-2 35 days post-vaccination. None of the vaccinated mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, or rabbits showed any changes in general clinical observations; body weight and food intake, clinical indicators, hematology examination, blood chemistry, and pathological examination of vital organs. Safety of vaccine after the administration of single and repeated dose was also established. Three different doses of candidate vaccine stimulated remarkable titers of neutralizing antibodies, S1, Receptor-Binding Domain (RBD), and N-terminal domain (NTD) specific IgG antibodies as well as IgA antibodies compared to placebo and control groups (P<0.01). Middle and high doses of RAZI-COV PARS vaccine significantly induced a robust and quick immune response from the third-week post-immunization. Histopathological studies on vaccinated hamsters showed that the challenge with SARS-CoV-2 did not induce any modifications in the lungs. The protection of the hamster was documented by the absence of lung pathology, the decreased virus load in the lung, rapid clearance of the virus from the lung, and strong humoral and cellular immune response. These findings confirm the immunogenicity and efficacy of the RAZI-COV PARS vaccine. Of the three tested vaccine regimens, the middle dose of the vaccine showed the best protective immune parameters. This vaccine with heterologous prime-boost vaccination method can be a good candidate to control the viral infection and its spread by stimulating central and mucosal immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis is a neglected zoonotic infection with a worldwide distribution and high levels of endemism in some regions, including the Middle East. In Iran, sheep and goats constitute a major part of the livestock population, often kept by small‐scale farmers for their own consumption and economic purposes. This investigation aimed at characterizing the Brucella spp. and biovars circulating in sheep and goats under smallholder farming and their potential spillover across farms. For this purpose, from two randomly selected pastoral districts of Alborz and Fars provinces in Iran, a total of 54 aborted foetuses (38 from sheep and 16 from goats) and 528 blood samples were collected from sheep (n = 435), goats (n = 77), farmers (n = 11) and dogs (n = 5). Then, serological, bacteriological and molecular characterization of Brucella isolates was performed using standard methods. Our results showed the high seroprevalence of brucellosis in pastoral districts of Fars and Alborz provinces reaching 16.3%, 11.7% and 12.7% by using the Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT), serum agglutination test (SAT) and indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) test, respectively. Furthermore, the results of bacterial culture, conventional biotyping and PCR analyses showed the presence of Brucella melitensis biovar 1 and 2 infections among goat, farmers and dog of the Alborz farms and B. melitensis biovars 1, 2 and 3 among sheep of the Fars farms. Among nine seropositive farmer and dog blood samples (four farmers and five dogs), only three (two farmers and one dog) were positive in both culture and PCR tests. These results stress the need to strengthen screening and control measures in small flocks of small ruminants in Iran that could be the starting point of new outbreaks at the livestock/human interface. The present study also suggests that infected dogs may further maintain the risk of exposure to Brucella pathogens in small farms and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the first official report of the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infections in the city of Qom in mid-February, Iran has become the country most affected by the COVID-19 epidemic in the Middle East. All Iranian provinces are now affected, although to a different extent. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the distance from the epicenter of the infection (Qom) or demographic factors such as population density and the ratio of the elderly population are associated with the incidence of COVID-19 in different Iranian provinces. For the purpose of determining whether the distance from the virus epicenter could be associated with the spread of infection, linear regression analysis was performed using STATA 12.0 software. The association of the incidence of COVID-19 with the population density and the ratio of the population over 65 years old in 31 Iranian provinces was also evaluated. According to our results, a strong association was found between the incidence of COVID-19 in Iranian provinces and their respective distance from Qom (p < 0.001; C = -0.68). The incidence of COVID-19 in Iranian provinces was also positively associated with the ratio of the population over 65 years old (p = 0.002; C = 0.53), while no significant association with population density was found (p = 0.39; C = 0.16). These results suggest that the implementation of travel restrictions from highly affected areas to other provinces could considerably reduce the rate of transmission of the disease throughout the country. Also, provinces with a higher proportion of elderly people (over 65) were identified as particularly at risk for the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infections. These results will contribute to better management of the COVID-19 outbreak in Iran, taking into account demographic and geographic characteristics of different provinces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic and malachite green residues in farmed rainbow trout muscles were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography for a food risk assessment. The surveillance was carried out on total of 120 rainbow trout fillets, all fishes were randomly sampled from 20 fish markets of Iran. All antibiotics were detected in the range of 0.42–1.20 μg/g for Oxytetracycline, 0.02–0.34 μg/g for Enrofloxacin, 0.21–2.61 μg/g for Florfenicol, and finally 0.02–0.89 μg/g for Malachite green. Our results showed that 99 (82.5%), 36 (30%), 56 (46.6%), and 70 (58.4%) samples contained detectable residues of Oxytetracycline, Enrofloxacin, and Florfenicol antibiotics, and Malachite green, respectively. Our results showed that fish farmers use these drugs in large scale. Further investigations are needed to prevent: the foodborne risk to consumers, the possible environmental contamination, and the antimicrobial resistances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the extent of Zn, Cu, Ni, Cd and Pb bioaccumulation in water, fish feed and the muscles of 40 rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) from four farmsalong Haraz River, Mazandaran Province, north of Iran. The dependence of bioaccumulation with food chain and environmental heavy metals concentration was specifically addressed. The potential human health risks due to consumption of rainbow trout have been assessed by estimated daily intake (EDI) and target hazard quotient (THQ) of aforementioned metals. The detected concentration ranges of the elements in the muscles, reported as μg.g−1 dry weight, were as following: Zn (13.92–15.92), Cu (0.54–0.74), Ni (0.12–0.26), Cd (0.008–0.01) and Pb (0.25–0.57). The rank order of the levels of the heavy metals was: in edible tissue Zn > Cu > Pb > Ni > Cd; in water Pb > Zn > Cu > Ni > Cd; in fish feed Pb > Zn > Ni > Cu > Cd. In general, the concentrations of all target metals were positively correlated with fish feed contents, whereas negative correlations were observed between the metal concentrations and water. Risk assessments suggested that there isn’t potential ecological and human health risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anisakid nematodes are common parasites of fish, mammals, fisheating birds, and reptiles with a worldwide distribution, causing diseases in human, fish and important economic losses. Methods: A preliminary epidemiological study was carried out on Anisakid nematodes larvae in some commercially important fish species to evaluate the anisakid nematode larvae from greater lizardfish, (Saurida tumbil), Japanese thread fin bream (Nemipterus japonicus), crocodile longtom (Tylosurus crocodilus crocodiles) and longfin trevally (Carangoides armatus) from the Persian Gulf of Iran. Result: The collected larvae were identified mainly as the third larval stage (L3) of Hysterothylacium larval type A, B and C, Anisakis sp., Raphidascaris sp., Pseudoterranova sp. and Philometra sp. (Nematoda: Philometridae). The prevalence of Anisakid larvae infection of examined fishes was 97.2% in N. japonicus, 90.3% in S. tumbil, 20.5% in crocodile longtom and 5.5% in longfin trevally. Anisakis type III for the first time was different from Anisakis type I and Anisakis type II. Discussion: Zoonotic anisakids by high prevalence in edible fish could be a health hazard for people. So health practices should be considered in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV), a member of family Rhabdoviridae and genus Novirhabdoviridae, causes a highly lethal disease of salmon and trout. In Iran IHNV was first detected in 2001 on farms rearing rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss). To evaluate the genetic relationships of IHNV from northern and western Iran, the sequences of a 651-nt region of the glycoprotein gene were determined for two Iranian isolates. These sequences were analyzed to evaluate their genetic relatedness to worldwide isolates representing the five known genogroups of IHNV. Iranian isolates were most closely related to European isolates within the genogroup E rather than those of North American genogroups U, M and L, or the Asian genogroup J. It appears that Iranian IHNV was most likely introduced to Iran from a source in Europe by the movement of contaminated fish eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The first comprehensive molecular typing of Brucella spp. infecting humans and livestock in Iran is presented. • Twenty –three Brucella isolates were characterized by phenotypic typing, AMOS-PCR, Bruce-ladder and MLST. • B. melitensis isolates belonged to 3 MLST-9 genotypes ST8, ST7, and ST102 – the latter previously reported only once, from a traveler with links to Iran. • Two widely dispersed MLST-9 genotypes were identified from B. abortus isolates (ST1 and ST2). • The study provides the first data describing how Brucella isolates from Iran relate to the global population structure. Brucellosis is an endemic infection in Iran and represents a serious health problem in humans and livestock causing important economic losses. The objective of this study was to undertake molecular characterization of Brucella spp. isolated from humans and livestock in several provinces of Iran including by multi-locus sequence typing (MLST), in order to understand the genotypes circulating in Iran and their relationship to genotypes globally. A total of 23 Brucella isolates were isolated from eight milk samples (seven cows, and one camel), human blood samples (seven), bovine lymph nodes (two), and samples from aborted fetuses (three sheep, two cows, and one goat). Phenotypic and molecular identification of Brucella isolates was performed on all isolated bacteria and showed that all were either Brucella melitensis or Brucella abortus. B. melitensis was associated with ovine/caprine and camel samples, most human isolates, and a significant minority of cattle isolates. In contrast B. abortus from livestock was associated only with isolations from bovine samples, as well as a single human sample. These results indicate that both B. melitensis and B. abortus contribute to the human brucellosis burden in Iran. B. melitensis isolates comprised three MLST-9 genotypes, the common and globally distributed ST8, a single representative of ST7, and several additional examples of ST102, a genotype previously only reported in a single isolate from a human brucellosis case believed to be acquired through travel to Iran. B. abortus isolates represented two globally common MLST-9 genotypes (ST1 and ST2), with relationships to biotype and other PCR-based typing methods consistent with previous observations. The results provide the basis for further studies examining the molecular epidemiology of Brucella circulating in Iran and the relationships of local isolates to those present globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis during pregnancy is associated with major concerns for mothers but, it is still not clear whether the infection could be transmitted through breastfeeding to newborns. This study aimed at evaluating the shedding of Brucella melitensis through human milk. We describe phenotypic and genotypic characterization of Brucella isolate from human milk. The characterized isolate by Bruce-ladder PCR, AMOS PCR and biotyping confirmed the presence of Brucella melitensis biovar 1 from human milk. However, the breastfeeding of newborn baby induced no serious abnormality, although occasional weakness, loss of appetite and vomiting were reported by the parents. All Brucella serological tests including RBT, SAT and 2 ME test were also positive for the baby and her mother, although the blood culture was negative for the baby. Evaluation of the blood DNA from mother and her baby also confirm the presence of Brucella melitensis in the blood samples. Therefore, the isolation of B. melitensis biovar 1 from human milk as well as presence of Brucella melitensis in the blood samples confirms breastfeeding as a possible route for infant infection. • The first report of Brucella melitensis infection in mother and her child in Iran. • Brucella melitensis biovar 1 was confirmed from human milk by molecular and biotyping methods. • Breastfeeding as a possible route for infant infection to brucellosis was revealed. • AMOS- PCR and Bruce-ladder PCR showed that the isolate belonged to Brucella melitensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis is a widespread zoonotic disease affecting human and livestock health. This meta-epidemiological study is aiming to draw a comprehensive picture of the Brucella prevalence in Iranian livestock, trying to estimate most affected subgroups as well as the most appropriate methods and sampling conditions for brucellosis screening programs. A literature search was performed among data published between 1 January 1970 and July 2020. Different subgroups were compared according to animal species, gender, age, sampling season, sampling locations as well as the diagnostic method used for brucellosis screening. To determine heterogeneity of studies, Chi-squared test was used and a random effect model (REM) estimated the pooled prevalence among subgroups. A total of 45 publications, comprising 240 studies/data-reports, were evaluated. A significant increase in the number of studies was found over time (Coefficient = 0.151, p value < 0.001). The most studied species in Iran was cow (n = 75), followed by sheep (n = 63), goat (n = 45), camel (n = 40) and Buffalo (n = 16). The most identified Brucella species in livestock were Brucella melitensis (n = 50), Brucella abortus (n = 39), mix infection of B. melitensis and B. abortus (n = 11) and vaccine strain of B. melitensis Rev1 (n = 4). PCR-based tests were the most common applied diagnostic method (n = 140), while the highest prevalence rate of positive samples was obtained by indirect ELISA (69%). The prevalence of brucellosis was significantly higher in females (10.91%) compared to males (8.23%). The meta-epidemiological study of brucellosis in Iranian livestock would help to strengthen surveillance, control and prevention approaches to counter the spread of this zoonotic disease. Brucella species responsible for brucellosis among livestock animals in Iran. [Display omitted] • The meta-epidemiology of brucellosis among Iranian livestock animals is presented. • Cow was the most affected livestock animal in Iran (overall prevalence of 14.7%). • The prevalence of brucellosis was higher in females (10.9%) than males (8.2%). • PCR-based methods were the main approach applied for the screening of brucellosis. • The most studied and most contaminated samples were blood and semen, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The first report of Brucella melitensis biovar 2 infection in herding dog of Iran. • The results of RBT and 2ME showed a slight agreement (k = 0.159). • Brucellosis incidence was remarkably higher in dog population of Alborz province. • The role of herding dogs in the Brucella persistence among ruminant farms was revealed. Canine brucellosis is a contagious disease associated with health implications for humans as well as for a wide range of wild and domesticated animals. In this study, 173 dog blood specimens were sampled from herding dogs in three different provinces including Tehran (n = 127), Qom (n = 40) and Alborz (n = 6) provinces. The presence of Brucella antibodies was determined using Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT), slow agglutination test (SAT) and 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME), respectively. The seropositive samples were further screened using blood culture and PCR tests to identify and differentiate the implicated Brucella species. According to our results, 24.3% (42/173), 13.8% (24/173) and 6.3% (11/173) of blood samples were tested positive using RBPT, SAT and 2-ME, respectively. However, among 42 seropositive samples, only 38.1% (16/42) and 14.2% (6/42) were positive by PCR and culture, respectively. Brucella melitensis biovar 1 and biovar 2 was isolated from the bacterial cultures of 6 blood samples and confirmed by biotyping, AMOS PCR and Bruce-ladder PCR assays. These findings highlight the potential risk of Brucella transmission from dog to humans along with other livestock and reflect the critical role of infected dogs in the persistence of Brucella infections among ruminant farms. This study stresses the need for further epidemiological investigations on canine brucellosis among herding dogs and suggests the systematic screening of the disease among companion animals such as dogs in order to improve brucellosis surveillance and control programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The first report of Brucella melitensis isolation from seronegative camel. • Infected camel may increase the risk of brucellosis within human and livestock. • There are moderate agreements between RBT, Wright and 2ME serological results. • PCR-based methods represent a powerful approach for camel brucellosis screening. Brucellosis is a significant zoonotic infection in Iran impacting both humans and animal health status. A number of reasons such as few clinical signs complicate the diagnosis of this infection in Camelidae. Despite the ubiquitous use of serological tests for the first screening of brucellosis in camel, this approach showed several restrictions because of the intracellular properties of this organism as well as decline antibody titers in chronic stage. This study aimed at identifying the presence of Brucella spp. in blood and lymph node samples collected from slaughtered male camels of Sistan-Baluchistan province by serology, culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. For this purpose, 2854 blood camel samples were sampled and analyzed for Brucella detection by serological screening tests. The molecular detection of IS711 gene and Bruce-ladder assay as well as culture were performed using the lymph nodes of all seropositive camel (n = 10) and 30 seronegative samples. Results showed that 0.35% (10/2854), 0.24% (7/2854) and 0.21% (6/2854) of blood samples were positive by RBPT, SAT and 2ME, respectively. However, 0% (0/10) and 70% (7/10) of lymph node samples collected from seropositive camels were positive for Brucella infection by culture and PCR, respectively. Furthermore, 6.6% (2/30) of seronegative lymph node specimens showed the presences of Brucella by PCR and culture assay. The results of the present study indicated the low seroprevalence of Brucella infection in male camels of the Sistan-Baluchistan province and highlighted the complementary role of PCR techniques for a better screening of Brucella infection among seronegative camels. Moreover, the potential shedding of Brucella within undiagnosed camel milk and secretions is a serious problem which may result in further spread and maintenance of Brucella infection among both human and livestock. Thus, for brucellosis detection and control, our results suggested that a first PCR screening supported by a bacteriological isolation on positive samples should be performed along with the serological test in endemic countries to identify the source and prevent the uncontrolled spread of the disease among camels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucella spp. are Gram-negative coccobacilli that may grow in different media and environmental conditions for extended periods of time. The survivals of these bacteria in the environment have an important impact on the epidemiology of brucellosis worldwide. The effect of climate on the incidence of certain zoonotic infectious diseases, (recently referred to as climate-sensitive zoonosis) is now well established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relation between the incidence of brucellosis and climatic parameters in Iran, an important endemic region for brucellosis with diverse climate. The information on the incidence of human brucellosis in different Iranian provinces for 2016 has been provided by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Iran. Annual meteorological data collected between 2015 and 2016 were obtained from the Iranian Meteorological organization (IMO). A regression analysis of the incidence of brucellosis was performed via STATA 14.0 and the heterogeneity among observations was determined via Cochrane's Q-test and I 2 statistic. If I 2 index was higher than 50%, heterogeneity was considered as considerable. The results of regression analyses revealed a negative significant association between mean ambient air temperature and brucellosis incidence (C = - 0.022, P value = 0.004). Likewise, a positive significant association was found between number of frosty days and brucellosis incidence (C = 0.002, p value = 0.003). Other metrological parameters showed no significant effect on the human brucellosis incidence. Although our results suggest a high degree of temperature sensitivity in regards to the brucellosis incidence in Iran, this study opens up prospects for further investigations regarding environmental conditions and climatic changes influencing the spatial distributions and seasonal/annual cycle of this zoonotic pathogen worldwide. • In most parts of Iran the annual incidence of human brucellosis remains high. • A negative significant association exists between mean ambient air temperature and brucellosis incidence. • The incidence of the disease showed decreasing tendency when mean temperatures exceed 19 °C. • A positive significant association exists between number of frosty days and brucellosis incidence. • The hot coastal dry climate with average maximum temperature exceeding 30 °C showed the lowest incidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucella spp. commonly infect humans in various regions worldwide. Human brucellosis mainly spreads through the consumption of contaminated raw dairy products and meat from domestic livestock (water buffalo, goats, sheep, cattle, pigs and camels). In this regard, the origin and routes of transmission of this bacterium should be carefully determined in order to control the source of infection. This study aimed to evaluate the rate of Brucella spp. contamination of camel milk samples sent for analysis to the national brucellosis laboratory during 2018 in Iran. For this purpose, 96 milk samples from 96 dairy camel herds were randomly collected from two provinces and investigated for the presence of Brucella spp contaminations by both bacterial culture method and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). No clinical manifestation of brucellosis was reported in camels from which milk samples were collected. Using the culture method, three milk samples (3%) originating from two camels of Isfahan province (4%) and one camel from the Semnan province (2%), were contaminated with Brucella abortus. According to PCR analyses, B. abortus gene was detected in 14 (14.5%) milk samples, including 9 and 5 samples from Isfahan (18%) and Semnan (11%) province, respectively. PCR method revealed significant differences (p = 0.02) in the level of contamination with B. abortus between milk samples collected from two regions. These results represent the first report regarding the isolation of B. abortus from raw camel milk in Iran and highlight the importance to screen apparent healthy camels. Therefore, the consumption of raw camel milk may contribute to the spread of human brucellosis in endemic regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus (VHSV), a member of family Rhabdoviridae and genus Novirhabdoviridae , causes mortality in numerous marine and freshwater hosts located in northern hemisphere. To evaluate the genetic diversity of VHSV from the North and South West of Iran, the sequences of a 1483 bp nt region of the glycoprotein gene were determined for four Iranian isolates. These sequences were analysed to evaluate their genetic relatedness with 86 worldwide isolates representing the four known genogroups of VHSV. Phylogenetic analysis by nucleotide sequences showed that all the VHSV isolates studied were closest related to the 19 fresh water strains from Germany grouped within the European genogroup Ia-2. This finding indicates that Iranian VHSV most likely was introduced to Iran by the movement of contaminated fish fry from a source in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Brucellosis and chlamydiosis are common causes of abortion in livestock. • The prevalence of brucellosis was significantly higher in goats compared to sheep. • Inversely, goats showed a lower prevalence of chlamydiosis compared to sheep. • Brucella melitensis biovars 1 was identified in sheep and goats aborted fetuses. Abortion in small ruminants is a critical issue in many developing countries including Iran and causes devastating economic losses in small ruminant industry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of brucellosis and chlamydiosis in sheep and goats with a history of abortion during lambing seasons in Iran. Samples were collected during 2019 from sheep and goat flocks located in Fars province (Southern Iran). A total of 124 sera (101 sheep and 23 goats) from aborted females as well as 29 aborted fetuses were sampled and analyzed for Chlamydia abortus and Brucella spp. using indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (i-ELISA) for chlamydiosis and a set of serological (RBT, SAT and 2-ME and i-ELISA) and bacterial tests for brucellosis. Seropositivity to C. abortus was also detected in 21.7 % and 4.3 % of sheep and goats, respectively. Brucella specific antibodies were found in 29.1 %, 22.6 %, 20.9 % and 23.4 % of tested sheep and goats using RBT, SAT,2-ME and i-ELISA, respectively. Bacterial isolation and biotyping led to the characterization of B. melitensis biovars 1 in sheep and goats aborted fetuses of Fars province. High prevalence of infection associated with brucellosis and chlamydiosis in both sheep and goat with a history of abortion highlights risks of human zoonotic infections by these pathogens. Therefore, special attention is required for further study and control program to counteract these infections in animals and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis, caused by various Brucella species, poses a significant threat to global public health and livestock industries. This study aims to fill the knowledge gap concerning the presence of Brucella spp. in rodents on livestock farms in Iran. Both bacteriological and molecular surveys were conducted to assess the prevalence of Brucella spp. in these rodent populations. A total of 16 rodents were captured in four seropositive dairy cattle farms (n = 7) and two seropositive sheep farms (n = 9) and were then examined for the presence of the Brucella-infection. Five cow milk samples and 53 bovine lymph node samples from these farms were also tested for Brucella spp. Lymph node samples from dairy cattle farms contained 32 B. abortus biovar 3 isolates and one B. melitensis Rev1 vaccine isolate. The bacterial culture of rodents identified 12.5% of them (Mus musculus and Rattus norvegicus) harboring Brucella strains in dairy cattle farms. The rodents had B. abortus biovar 3 and B. melitensis biovar 1, suggesting a reservoir for these bacteria. A two-step molecular assay, utilizing the Omp28 sequences in tissue samples of rodents, demonstrated that 68.75% (n = 11) of the tested rodents yielded positive results. Bruce-ladder PCR and wboA typing on isolated bacteria revealed a close relationship to field strain of Brucella species. The study reveals that rodents on seropositive livestock farms in Iran harbor Brucella spp., indicating a potential reservoir for these bacteria. This highlights the importance of monitoring rodent populations through the molecular and bacterial methods to manage and control brucellosis in livestock., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest Authors confirm that they have no conflict of interest of any sort with any one., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Equine brucellosis significantly impacts the health and functionality of horses, leading to complications such as bursitis infection, septic tenosynovitis, septic arthritis, and non-specific lameness resulting from joint infections. In the present study, we used the Rose Bengal plate agglutination test (RBPT), serum agglutination test (SAT), and the 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME) assays to find equine brucellosis. From June 2018 to September 2022, 876 blood samples were randomly taken from apparently healthy racing horses in certain parts of Iran, such as Kerman, Isfahan, Tehran, Qom, and Kurdistan. DNA extraction was carried out directly on all 63 serum samples identified as seropositive through RBPT. An additional 30 seronegative serum samples were also randomly chosen for study. Bacterial culture was also done on milk, blood, and vaginal swabs taken from seropositive horses.The bacteria that were found in the samples were then put through Bruce-ladder PCR. Our results indicated that 63 (7.1%), 21 (2.3%), and 2 (0.2%) of horses were seropositive using RBPT, SAT, and 2-ME, respectively. Also, none of the 30 DNA-extracted serum samples from seronegative horses tested positive for Brucella DNA, while 44.5% (28/63) of the DNA samples from seropositive horses yielded positive results for Brucella DNA. Out of the seropositive samples, 26 had DNA from Brucella abortus and 2 had DNA from Brucella melitensis. Also, B. melitensis biovar 1 was found in two milk samples from mares in the provinces of Kerman and Isfahan. It was identified using classical biotyping, and molecular assays. It was seen that some of healthy racing horses in some parts of Iran had antibodies against Brucella. The bacteriology and PCR methodologies provide a more comprehensive and reliable means of identifying Brucella spp. infections in horse, especially when the RBPT test came back positive. This underscores the imperative for employing molecular, bacterial, and serological methods in the diagnosis and monitoring of this zoonotic infection. Additionally, this finding suggests that Brucella is being transmitted to equine hosts as a result of its presence in ruminants. The mechanism of transmission may involve interactions between infected ruminants and susceptible equines. This discovery is significant as it underscores the potential cross-species transmission of Brucella and highlights the importance of understanding and managing the spread of the pathogen in both ruminant and equine populations., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Brucellosis is a significant infection that causes abortion, decreased milk production, and sterility in livestock, which greatly affects the industry. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Brucella in buffalo milk samples across various regions of Iran, utilizing serological, molecular, and cultural analyses. A total of 1860 buffalo milk samples were collected from industrial, semi-industrial, and traditional buffalo farms in four major buffalo breeding provinces. The milk ring test agglutination test (MRT) was initially conducted on all milk samples, followed by culture and molecular testing for positive and negative samples in MRT. The study revealed positive results for the presence of Brucella DNA in various provinces of Iran. The MRT had a relatively low sensitivity, with results ranging from 0 to 0.7% in different provinces. However, the AMOS PCR method showed a significantly higher presence of Brucella DNA, ranging from 13 to 46% in these provinces. The highest abundance of Brucella bacterial DNA was found in Ardabil province, while the lowest was in West Azerbaijan province. Brucella abortus was the most commonly detected bacteria, followed by Brucella melitensis. Interestingly, the B. abortus vaccine strain RB51 was detected in 26.3% of positive samples of B. abortus. The culture assay of milk samples further confirmed the presence of B. melitensis biovar 1 in one sample from Khuzestan province. Overall, the study emphasizes that the AMOS PCR method is the most sensitive in detecting Brucella-exposed milk, while the sensitivity of milk sample culture and MRT is relatively lower., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic bacterium, which is globally recognized for its high prevalence and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Biofilm-forming capability, susceptibility testing, and phenotypic confirmatory test for extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing isolate recognition of 104 K. pneumoniae isolates were performed according to the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guidelines. The prevalence of ESBL-associated genes bla-VIM, bla-NDM, and bla-OXA-48, as well as biofilm-associated genes luxS, fimH1, wza, and mrkD, was determined by multiplex PCR. The highest resistance rate was against ampicillin (100.0%). Among the 104 K. pneumoniae isolates, 52 (50.0%) and 31 (29.8%) isolates were determined as multi- and extensively drug resistant (MDR, XDR), respectively. Moreover, 21 (40.4%) isolates were determined as ESBL producing. Among 50 biofilm-producing K. pneumoniae isolates, 7 (14.0%), 15 (30.0%), and 28 (56.0%) isolates exhibited high, moderate, and weak levels of biofilm formation, respectively. A number of 41 (78.8%) isolates were susceptible to colistin, and 10 (19.2%) were resistant. AMR was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the biofilm-forming isolates compared with non-biofilm formers., (© 2023. This is a U.S. Government work and not under copyright protection in the US; foreign copyright protection may apply.)

Brucellosis is among the most important zoonotic infectious diseases worldwide affecting both humans and domestic animals. The present study aimed to determine and compare the seroprevalence of brucellosis among rural and periurban dairy cattle farms of four Iranian provinces from 2017 to 2019. We applied different serological tests, including RBT, SAT, and iELISA to evaluate the brucellosis prevalence among 2808 dairy cattle. Species-specific multiplex PCR and biotyping tests were also used to further identify the implicated Brucella species. Serological screening using RBT, SAT, and iELISA led to 157 (5.6%), 112 (3.9%), and 139 (4.9%) positive results among tested cattle, respectively. Brucella abortus biovars 1 (2 cases) and biovars 3 (42 cases) were identified by biotyping experiments and multiplex PCR in all 44 tested lymph node samples. Further, Cohen's kappa statistical analysis revealed that the best degree of agreement was seen between RBT and iELISA (99.4%), followed by SAT/iELISA (98.5%) and finally RBT/SAT (98.4%). Our results also showed a significantly lower seroprevalence of brucellosis in periurban dairy cattle when compared to rural dairy cattle population (p value= 0.01). These results reflect the need for better vaccine coverage using RB51 combined with an appropriate test-and-slaughter program in the rural dairy cattle population.

Infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV) is the causal agent of a highly contagious disease that affects many species of fish and shellfish. This virus causes economically significant diseases of farmed rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum), in Iran, which is often associated with the transmission of pathogens from European resources. In this study, moribund rainbow trout fry samples were collected during an outbreak of IPNV in three different fish farms in north and west provinces of Iran in 2012; and we investigated the full genome sequence of Iranian IPNV and compared it with previously identified IPNV sequences. The sequences of different structural and nonstructural-protein genes were compared to those of other aquatic birnaviruses sequenced to date. Our results show that the Iranian isolate falls within genogroup 5, serotype A2 strain SP, having 99% identity with the strain 1146 from Spain. These results suggest that the Iranian isolate may have originated from Europe.