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High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) virus H5N1 first emerged in Bangladesh in 2007. Despite the use of vaccines in chickens since 2012 to control HPAI, HPAI H5Nx viruses have continued to infect poultry, and wild birds, resulting in notable mass mortalities in house crows (Corvus splendens). The first HPAI H5Nx viruses in Bangladesh belonged to clade 2.2.2, followed by clade 2.3.4.2 and 2.3.2.1 viruses in 2011. After the implementation of chicken vaccination in 2012, these viruses were mostly replaced by clade 2.3.2.1a viruses and more recently clade 2.3.4.4b and h viruses. In this study, we reconstruct the phylogenetic history of HPAI H5Nx viruses in Bangladesh to evaluate the role of major host species in the maintenance and evolution of HPAI H5Nx virus in Bangladesh and reveal the role of heavily impacted crows in virus epidemiology. Epizootic waves caused by HPAI H5N1 and H5N6 viruses amongst house crows occurred annually in winter. Bayesian phylodynamic analysis of clade 2.3.2.1a revealed frequent bidirectional viral transitions between domestic ducks, chickens, and house crows that was markedly skewed towards ducks; domestic ducks might be the source, or reservoir, of HPAI H5Nx in Bangladesh, as the number of viral transitions from ducks to chickens and house crows was by far more numerous than the other transitions. Our results suggest viral circulation in domestic birds despite vaccination, with crow epizootics acting as a sentinel. The vaccination strategy needs to be updated to use more effective vaccinations, assess vaccine efficacy, and extension of vaccination to domestic ducks, the key reservoir.

Abstract Background The emergence and dissemination of multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria pose a severe threat to public health by limiting clinical treatment and prophylactic options. Objectives This study investigates the prevalence of Escherichia coli in broilers, their phenotypic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles and the presence of virulence‐associated genes (VAGs) and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Materials and methods A total of 216 pooled cloacal samples were collected from 1080 broilers across six districts of Bangladesh. Each pooled sample comprised randomly selected cloacal swabs from five birds per farm. E. coli isolates were identified using standard bacteriological approach, followed by biochemical assays and PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method, and the presence of ARGs and VAGs was determined via PCR. Five selected isolates were partially sequenced for five VAGs using Sanger sequencing. Results A total of 177 E. coli isolates (81.94%, 95% confidence interval: 76.24%–86.53%) were identified. The isolates showed the highest resistance to ampicillin (93.79%), followed by tetracycline (91.53%), erythromycin (89.27%) and ciprofloxacin (87%). Conversely, ceftriaxone (80.79%) showed highest susceptibility, followed by gentamicin (37.29%) and neomycin (31.07%). All isolates were MDR, with a multiple antibiotic resistance indexes were

The rumen microbiota of dairy cows plays a crucial role in fermenting fibrous material, essential for nutrient extraction and overall productivity, detoxification of anti-nutritional toxic compounds, synthesis of vital nutrients, and is essential for optimal animal health. This study investigated the impact of Lentilactobacillus-, Lactocaseibacillus-, and Lacticaseibacillus-based direct-fed microbial (DFM) supplementation on dairy cows’ faecal microbial composition and diversity. The study was carried out on a commercial dairy farm using 50 Holstein-Friesian cows randomly assigned into control (CON) and treatment (TRT) groups. Faecal samples were collected directly from the rectum every two months from September 2021 to January 2023. The bacterial 16S rRNA gene and fungal ITS-1 regions were amplified, sequenced, and analysed. Microbial diversity was assessed through alpha- and beta-diversity metrics. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) was performed to identify which taxa were driving the changes seen in the microbiota over time and treatment. Bacteroidaceae were the most prevalent bacterial family, followed by Lachnospiraceae and Muribaculaceae in both CON and TRT cows. Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Mucoromycota were the dominant three fungal phyla in the faeces of both CON and TRT cows. Bacterial genera Fructilactobacillus was abundant in the CON and Absicoccus in the TRT groups. Fungal taxa Chaetothryriales_incertae_sedis and Pseudomentella were absent in the faeces of TRT cows. Significant temporal and specific taxonomic differences were observed between the CON and TRT groups. The study’s findings underscore the dynamic nature of microbial communities and the importance of targeted dietary interventions. Further research is necessary to elucidate these microbial shifts, long-term impacts, and functional implications, aiming to optimise ruminant nutrition and enhance dairy cow performance.

Rodents are known reservoirs for a diverse group of zoonotic pathogens that can pose a threat to human health. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate these pathogens to institute prevention and control measures. To achieve this, the current study was conducted to investigate the frequency of different parasites in commensal rodents in Qatar. A total of 148 rodents, including Rattus norvegicus, Rattus rattus, and Mus musculus were captured using traps placed in different habitats such as agricultural and livestock farms, residential areas, and other localities. Blood, feces, ectoparasite, and visceral organs were collected for gross, microscopic, immunological, and molecular analysis. The study identified 10 different parasites, including Capillaria annulosa, Eimeria spp., Giardia spp., Hymenolepis diminuta, Mastophorus muris, Ornithonyssus bacoti, Taenia taeniaeformis, Toxoplasma gondii, Trypanosoma lewisi, and Xenopsylla astia. Overall, 62.2% of the rodents tested positive for at least one parasite species. Helminths were found to be the most prevalent parasites (46.0%), followed by ectoparasites (31.8%), and protozoa (10.1%). However, individually, X. astia was the most prevalent (31.8%), whereas C. annulosa was the least common (0.7%). The prevalence of X. astia and H. diminuta significantly differed between habitats (p

Avian influenza virus (AIV) is of major concern to livestock, wildlife, and human health. In many countries in the world, including Bangladesh, AIV is endemic in poultry, requiring improving biosecurity. In Bangladesh, we investigated how variation in biosecurity practices in commercial chicken farms affected their AIV infection status to help guide AIV mitigation strategies. We collected pooled fecal swabs from 225 farms and tested the samples for the AIV matrix gene followed by H5, H7, and H9 subtyping using rRT-PCR. We found that 39.6% of chicken farms were AIV positive, with 13% and 14% being positive for subtypes H5 and H9, respectively. Using a generalized linear mixed effects model, we identified as many as 12 significant AIV risk factors. Two major factors promoting AIV risk that cannot be easily addressed in the short term were farm size and the proximity of the farm to a live bird market. However, the other ten significant determinants of AIV risk can be more readily addressed, of which the most important ones were limiting access by visitors (reducing predicted AIV risk from 42 to 6%), isolation and treatment of sick birds (42 to 7%), prohibiting access of vehicles to poultry sheds (38 to 8%), improving hand hygiene (from 42 to 9%), not sharing farm workers across farms (37 to 8%), and limiting access by wild birds to poultry sheds (37 to 8%). Our findings can be applied to developing practical and cost-effective measures that significantly decrease the prevalence of AIV in chicken farms. Notably, in settings with limited resources, such as Bangladesh, these measures can help governments strengthen biosecurity practices in their poultry industry to limit and possibly prevent the spread of AIV.

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpesvirus 4, is a member of the herpes virus family. EBV is a widespread virus and causes infectious mononucleosis, which manifests with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and hepatomegaly. Additionally, EBV is associated with different lymphocyte-associated non-malignant, premalignant, and malignant diseases. So far, no effective treatment or therapeutic drug is known for EBV-induced infections and diseases. This study investigated natural compounds that inhibit EBV glycoprotein L (gL) and block EBV fusion in host cells. We utilised computational approaches, including molecular docking, in silico ADMET analysis, and molecular dynamics simulation. We docked 628 natural compounds against gL and identified the four best compounds based on binding scores and pharmacokinetic properties. These four compounds, with PubChem CIDs 4835509 (CHx-HHPD-Ac), 2870247 (Cyh-GlcNAc), 21206004 (Hep-HHPD-Ac), and 51066638 (Und-GlcNAc), showed several interactions with EBV gL. However, molecular dynamics simulations indicated that the protein–ligand complexes of CID: 4835509 (CHx-HHPD-Ac) and CID: 2870247 (Cyh-GlcNAc) are more stable than those of the other two compounds. Therefore, CIDs 4835509 and 2870247 (Cyh-GlcNAc) may be potent natural inhibitors of EBV infection. These findings can open a new way for effective drug design against EBV and its associated infections and diseases.

High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 outbreaks pose a significant threat to the health of livestock, wildlife, and humans. Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) are enzootic in poultry in many countries, including Bangladesh, necessitating improved farm biosecurity measures. However, the comprehension of biosecurity and hygiene practices, as well as the infection of AIV in turkey farms, are poorly understood in Bangladesh. Therefore, we conducted this study to determine the prevalence of AIV subtypes and their association with biosecurity and hygiene practices in turkey farms. We collected oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs from individual turkeys from 197 farms across 9 districts in Bangladesh from March to August 2019. We tested the swab samples for the AIV matrix gene (M gene) followed by H5, H7, and H9 subtypes using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). We found 24.68% (95% CI:21.54–28.04) of turkey samples were AIV positive, followed by 5.95% (95% CI: 4.33–7.97) for H5, 6.81% (95% CI: 5.06–8.93) for H9 subtype and no A/H7 was found. Using a generalized linear mixed model, we determined 10 significant risk factors associated with AIV circulation in turkey farms. We found that the absence of sick turkeys, the presence of footbaths, the absence of nearby poultry farms, concrete flooring, and the avoidance of mixing newly purchased turkeys with existing stock can substantially reduce the risk of AIV circulation in turkey farms (odds ratio ranging from 0.02 to 0.08). Furthermore, the absence of nearby live bird markets, limiting wild bird access, no visitor access, improved floor cleaning frequency, and equipment disinfection practices also had a substantial impact on lowering the AIV risk in the farms (odds ratio ranging from 0.10 to 0.13). The results of our study underscore the importance of implementing feasible and cost-effective biosecurity measures aimed at reducing AIV transmission in turkey farms. Particularly in resource-constrained environments such as Bangladesh, such findings might assist governmental entities in enhancing biosecurity protocols within their poultry sector, hence mitigating and potentially averting the transmission of AIV and spillover to humans.

Abstract In safari parks and zoos, wild animals are kept mainly for recreational purposes. Animals in these enclosures are also crucial for the education, research, and conservation aspect. To ensure better management and good health of wild animals in captivity, it is essential to monitor the occurrence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic (helminths and protozoa) infections. The current investigation was undertaken to investigate the prevalence of GI parasitic infections in wild mammals at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib (BSM) safari park and Chattogram (CTG) zoo of Bangladesh. A total of 72 individual faecal samples were collected from 25 species of wild mammals. Routine qualitative (e.g. direct smear, sedimentation, and flotation) and quantitative (e.g. McMaster technique) tests were performed to identify the eggs or oocysts of helminths and protozoa. Results demonstrated that wild mammals of both BSM safari park and CTG zoo were infected with a total of 17 genera/species of helminths and protozoa. The overall prevalence of GI parasitic infections in wild mammals of both zoological parks was 65.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 53.14–76.12), whereas it was 72.4% (95% CI: 52.76–87.27) in the BSM safari park and 60.5% (95% CI: 44.41–75.02) in the CTG zoo. In both zoological parks, infection with nematodes was more frequent compared to other helminth into the wild mammals. The herbivores were more infected with GI parasites than carnivores and omnivores of both BSM safari park and CTG zoo. The mean eggs/oocysts per gram of faeces was the highest in the carnivores compared to herbivores and omnivores of both enclosures. The findings of the current study demonstrated that wild mammals of both BSM safari park and CTG zoo suffered from various GI parasitic infections. Regular monitoring along with proper therapeutic measures may reduce the severe consequences of GI parasitic infections in captive wild animals.

High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 outbreaks continue to wreak havoc on the global poultry industry and threaten the health of wild bird populations, with sporadic spillover in humans and other mammals, resulting in widespread calls to vaccinate poultry. Bangladesh has been vaccinating poultry since 2012, presenting a prime opportunity to study the effects of vaccination on HPAI H5N1circulation in both poultry and wild birds. We investigated the efficacy of vaccinating commercial poultry against HPAI H5N1 along with climatic and socio-economic factors considered potential drivers of HPAI H5N1 outbreak risk in Bangladesh. Using a multivariate modeling approach, we estimated that the rate of outbreaks was 18 times higher before compared to after vaccination, with winter months having a three times higher chance of outbreaks than summer months. Variables resulting in small but significant increases in outbreak rate were relatively low ambient temperatures for the time of year, literacy rate, chicken and duck density, crop density, and presence of highways; this may be attributable to low temperatures supporting viral survival outside the host, higher literacy driving reporting rate, density of the host reservoir, and spread of the virus through increased connectivity. Despite the substantial impact of vaccination on outbreaks, we note that HPAI H5N1 is still enzootic in Bangladesh; vaccinated poultry flocks have high rates of H5N1 prevalence, and spillover to wild birds has increased. Vaccination in Bangladesh thus bears the risk of supporting “silent spread,” where the vaccine only provides protection against disease and not also infection. Our findings underscore that poultry vaccination can be part of holistic HPAI mitigation strategies when accompanied by monitoring to avoid silent spread.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus subtype H5N1 endangers poultry, wildlife, and human health and is enzootic in large parts of Asia, with live bird markets (LBMs) as putative hotspots for their maintenance, amplification, and spread. To mitigate the extent of these and other avian influenza viruses (AIV) of concern, we aimed to increase our quantitative understanding of the factors determining the presence of avian influenza virus in LBM stalls. Between 2016 and 2017, we collected fecal or offal samples from 1008 stalls in 113 LBMs across the Dhaka and Rajshahi districts in Bangladesh. For each stall, samples were pooled and tested for the AIV matrix gene, followed by H5 and H9 subtyping using rRT-PCR. We detected Influenza A viral RNA in 49% of the stalls. Of the AIV positive samples, 52% and 24% were determined to be H5 and H9 viruses, respectively, which are both subtypes of considerable health concern. We used generalized linear mixed effect modelling to study AIV presence in individual stalls within LBMs as a function of 13 out of the 20 risk factors identified by FAO. We found that small and feasible improvements in cleaning and disinfection frequency, installing running water in stalls, and not mixing different breeds of chicken in the same cages had large impacts on the presence of AIV in stalls (Odds ratios 0.03–0.05). Next, cleaning vehicles used in poultry transport, not selling waterfowl with chickens in the same stall, buying stock directly from commercial farms, separating sick birds from healthy ones, and avoiding access by wild birds like house crows, also had major effects on lowering the risk of stalls having AIV (Odds ratios 0.16–0.33). These findings can be directly used in developing practical and affordable measures to reduce the prevalence of AIV in LBMs. Also, in settings with limited resources like Bangladesh, such mitigation may significantly contribute to reducing AIV circulation amongst poultry and spillover to wildlife and humans.

Live bird markets (LBMs) are critical for poultry trade in many developing countries that are regarded as hotspots for the prevalence and contamination of avian influenza viruses (AIV). Therefore, we conducted weekly longitudinal environmental surveillance in LBMs to determine annual cyclic patterns of AIV subtypes, environmental risk zones, and the role of climatic factors on the AIV presence and persistence in the environment of LBM in Bangladesh. From January 2018 to March 2020, we collected weekly fecal and offal swab samples from each LBM and tested using rRT-PCR for the M gene and subtyped for H5, H7, and H9. We used Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) approaches to account for repeated observations over time to correlate the AIV prevalence and potential risk factors and the negative binomial and Poisson model to investigate the role of climatic factors on environmental contamination of AIV at the LBM. Over the study period, 37.8% of samples tested AIV positive, 18.8% for A/H5, and A/H9 was, for 15.4%. We found the circulation of H5, H9, and co-circulation of H5 and H9 in the environmental surfaces year-round. The Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) model reveals a distinct seasonal pattern in transmitting AIV and H5. Specifically, certain summer months exhibited a substantial reduction of risk up to 70–90% and 93–94% for AIV and H5 contamination, respectively. The slaughtering zone showed a significantly higher risk of contamination with H5, with a three-fold increase in risk compared to bird-holding zones. From the negative binomial model, we found that climatic factors like temperature and relative humidity were also significantly associated with weekly AIV circulation. An increase in temperature and relative humidity decreases the risk of AIV circulation. Our study underscores the significance of longitudinal environmental surveillance for identifying potential risk zones to detect H5 and H9 virus co-circulation and seasonal transmission, as well as the imperative for immediate interventions to reduce AIV at LBMs in Bangladesh. We recommend adopting a One Health approach to integrated AIV surveillance across animal, human, and environmental interfaces in order to prevent the epidemic and pandemic of AIV.

ABSTRACTMonkeypox (Mpox) was mostly limited to Central and Western Africa, but recently it has been reported globally. The current review presents an update on the virus, including ecology and evolution, possible drivers of transmission, clinical features and management, knowledge gaps, and research priorities to reduce the disease transmission. The origin, reservoir(s) and the sylvatic cycle of the virus in the natural ecosystem are yet to be confirmed. Humans acquire the infection through contact with infected animals, humans, and natural hosts. The major drivers of disease transmission include trapping, hunting, bushmeat consumption, animal trade, and travel to endemic countries. However, in the 2022 epidemic, the majority of the infected humans in non-endemic countries had a history of direct contact with clinical or asymptomatic persons through sexual activity. The prevention and control strategies should include deterring misinformation and stigma, promoting appropriate social and behavioural changes, including healthy life practices, instituting contact tracing and management, and using the smallpox vaccine for high-risk people. Additionally, longer-term preparedness should be emphasized using the One Health approach, such as systems strengthening, surveillance and detection of the virus across regions, early case detection, and integrating measures to mitigate the socio-economic effects of outbreaks.

Abstract Background Parasitic diseases such as helminths and protozoa are considered one of the major impediments in the rearing of pet birds. The current study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of helminths and protozoal infections in different captive pet birds in Chattogram metropolitan area, Bangladesh. Methods A total of 549 pooled faecal and 311 individual blood samples were collected from different species of pet birds during June 2019 to May 2020. The faecal samples were examined following routine microscopic tests to identify the eggs and oocysts of helminths and protozoan parasites, respectively. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to determine the haemoprotozoan parasites. Results The prevalence of helminth infestations in pet birds was 8.01% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.88–10.61), where infestation caused by nematodes was the highest (7.47%, CI: 5.41–10). Ascaridia and Capillaria spp. infestations were the commonest helminths recorded in different groups of pet birds. The overall prevalence of intestinal protozoal infections was 11.11% (CI: 8.61–14.04) in pet birds. The most commonly occurring protozoal infections were Eimeria spp. (7.83%, CI: 5.73–10.41) followed by Isospora spp. (2.91%, CI: 1.67–4.69). The overall prevalence of haemoprotozoan parasites was 2.25% (CI: 0.91–4.58) in different groups of pet birds. The highest prevalence was recorded in Plasmodium spp. (1.29%, CI: 0.35–3.26) followed by Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus spp. Conclusions The data generated in this study are the first of its type, which would be beneficial to the veterinary practice, aviculturists, pet bird owners and breeders in Bangladesh to respond appropriately for the prevention and control of the disease.

Marburg virus (MARV) has been a major concern since 1967, with two major outbreaks occurring in 1998 and 2004. Infection from MARV results in severe hemorrhagic fever, causing organ dysfunction and death. Exposure to fruit bats in caves and mines, and human-to-human transmission had major roles in the amplification of MARV outbreaks in African countries. The high fatality rate of up to 90% demands the broad study of MARV diseases (MVD) that correspond with MARV infection. Since large outbreaks are rare for MARV, clinical investigations are often inadequate for providing the substantial data necessary to determine the treatment of MARV disease. Therefore, an overall review may contribute to minimizing the limitations associated with future medical research and improve the clinical management of MVD. In this review, we sought to analyze and amalgamate significant information regarding MARV disease epidemics, pathophysiology, and management approaches to provide a better understanding of this deadly virus and the associated infection.

Waterfowl are considered to be natural reservoirs of the avian influenza virus (AIV). However, the dynamics of transmission and evolutionary patterns of AIV and its subtypes within duck farms in Bangladesh remain poorly documented. Hence, a cross-sectional study was conducted in nine districts of Bangladesh between 2019 and 2021, to determine the prevalence of AIV and its subtypes H5 and H9, as well as to identify risk factors and the phylodynamics of H5N1 clades circulating in domestic duck farms. The oropharyngeal and cloacal swab samples were tested for the AIV Matrix gene (M-gene) followed by H5, H7, and H9 subtypes using rRT-PCR. The exploratory analysis was performed to estimate AIV and its subtype prevalence in different production systems, and multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify the risk factors that influence AIV infection in ducks. Bayesian phylogenetic analysis was conducted to generate a maximum clade credibility (MCC) tree and the maximum likelihood method to determine the phylogenetic relationships of the H5N1 viruses isolated from ducks. AIV was detected in 40% (95% CI: 33.0–48.1) of the duck farms. The prevalence of AIV was highest in nomadic ducks (39.8%; 95% CI: 32.9–47.1), followed by commercial ducks (24.6%; 95% CI: 14.5–37.3) and backyard ducks (14.4%; 95% CI: 10.5–19.2). The H5 prevalence was also highest in nomadic ducks (19.4%; 95% CI: 14.0–25.7). The multivariable logistic regression model revealed that ducks from nomadic farms (AOR: 2.4; 95% CI: 1.45–3.93), juvenile (AOR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.37–3.61), and sick ducks (AOR: 11.59; 95% CI: 4.82–32.44) had a higher risk of AIV. Similarly, the likelihood of H5 detection was higher in sick ducks (AOR: 40.8; 95% CI: 16.3–115.3). Bayesian phylogenetic analysis revealed that H5N1 viruses in ducks belong to two distinct clades, 2.3.2.1a, and 2.3.4.4b. The clade 2.3.2.1a (reassorted) has been evolving silently since 2015 and forming at least nine subgroups based on >90% posterior probability. Notably, clade 2.3.4.4b was introduced in ducks in Bangladesh by the end of the year 2020, which was genetically similar to viruses detected in wild birds in Japan, China, and Africa, indicating migration-associated transmission of an emerging panzootic clade. We recommend continuing AIV surveillance in the duck production system and preventing the intermingling of domestic ducks with migratory waterfowl in wetlands.

The impacts of the avian influenza virus (AIV) on farmed poultry and wild birds affect human health, livelihoods, food security, and international trade. The movement patterns of turkey birds from farms to live bird markets (LBMs) and infection of AIV are poorly understood in Bangladesh. Thus, we conducted weekly longitudinal surveillance in LBMs to understand the trading patterns, temporal trends, and risk factors of AIV circulation in turkey birds. We sampled a total of 423 turkeys from two LBMs in Dhaka between May 2018 and September 2019. We tested the swab samples for the AIV matrix gene (M-gene) followed by H5, H7, and H9 subtypes using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). We used exploratory analysis to investigate trading patterns, annual cyclic trends of AIV and its subtypes, and a generalized estimating equation (GEE) logistic model to determine the factors that influence the infection of H5 and H9 in turkeys. Furthermore, we conducted an observational study and informal interviews with traders and vendors to record turkey trading patterns, demand, and supply and turkey handling practices in LBM. We found that all trade routes of turkey birds to northern Dhaka are unidirectional and originate from the northwestern and southern regions of Bangladesh. The number of trades from the source district to Dhaka depends on the turkey density. The median distance that turkey was traded from its source district to Dhaka was 188 km (Q1 = 165, Q3 = 210, IQR = 45.5). We observed seasonal variation in the median and average distance of turkey. The qualitative findings revealed that turkey farming initially became reasonably profitable in 2018 and at the beginning of 2019. However, the fall in demand and production in the middle of 2019 may be related to unstable market pricing, high feed costs, a shortfall of adequate marketing facilities, poor consumer knowledge, and a lack of advertising. The overall prevalence of AIV, H5, and H9 subtypes in turkeys was 31% (95% CI: 26.6–35.4), 16.3% (95% CI: 12.8–19.8), and 10.2% (95% CI: 7.3–13.1) respectively. None of the samples were positive for H7. The circulation of AIV and H9 across the annual cycle showed no seasonality, whereas the circulation of H5 showed significant seasonality. The GEE revealed that detection of AIV increases in retail vendor business (OR: 1.71; 95% CI: 1.12–2.62) and the bird’s health status is sick (OR: 10.77; 95% CI: 4.31–26.94) or dead (OR: 11.33; 95% CI: 4.30–29.89). We also observed that winter season (OR: 5.83; 95% CI: 2.80–12.14) than summer season, dead birds (OR: 61.71; 95% CI: 25.78–147.75) and sick birds (OR 8.33; 95% CI: 3.36–20.64) compared to healthy birds has a higher risk of H5 infection in turkeys. This study revealed that the turkeys movements vary by time and season from the farm to the LBM. This surveillance indicated year-round circulation of AIV with H5 and H9 subtypes in turkey birds in LBMs. The seasonality and health condition of birds influence H5 infection in birds. The trading pattern of turkey may play a role in the transmission of AIV viruses in the birds. The selling of sick turkeys infected with H5 and H9 highlights the possibility of virus transmission to other species of birds sold at LBMs and to people.

The Middle East respiratory syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is one of the human coronaviruses that causes severe respiratory infection. Bats are considered to be the natural reservoir, where dromedary camels (DC) are the intermediate hosts of the virus. The current study was undertaken to provide an update on global distribution of the virus in camels, and to investigate the pooled prevalence and camel-associated risk factors of infection. After registration of the review protocol in the Open Science Framework, data searches were conducted on 18 April 2023 through Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Considering only natural MERS-CoV infection in camels, 94 articles were selected for data curation through blind screening by two authors. Meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the pooled prevalence and to evaluate camel-associated risk factors. Finally, the results were presented in forest plots. The reviewed articles tested 34 countries, of which camels of 24 countries were seropositive and in 15 countries they were positive by molecular method. Viral RNA was detected in DC. Non-DC, such as bactrian camels, alpaca, llama, and hybrid camels were only seropositive. The global estimated pooled seroprevalence and viral RNA prevalence in DC were 77.53% and 23.63%, respectively, with the highest prevalence in West Asia (86.04% and 32.37% respectively). In addition, 41.08% of non-DC were seropositive. The estimated pooled prevalence of MERS-CoV RNA significantly varied by sample types with the highest in oral (45.01%) and lowest in rectal (8.42%) samples; the estimated pooled prevalence in nasal (23.10%) and milk (21.21%) samples were comparable. The estimated pooled seroprevalence in 5 years age groups were 56.32%, 75.31%, and 86.31%, respectively, while viral RNA prevalence was 33.40%, 15.87%, and 13.74%, respectively. Seroprevalence and viral RNA prevalence were generally higher in females (75.28% and 19.70%, respectively) than in males (69.53% and 18.99%, respectively). Local camels had lower estimated pooled seroprevalence (63.34%) and viral RNA prevalence (17.78%) than those of imported camels (89.17% and 29.41%, respectively). The estimated pooled seroprevalence was higher in camels of free-herds (71.70%) than confined herds (47.77%). Furthermore, estimated pooled seroprevalence was higher in samples from livestock markets, followed by abattoirs, quarantine, and farms but viral RNA prevalence was the highest in samples from abattoirs, followed by livestock markets, quarantine, and farms. Risk factors, such as sample type, young age, female sex, imported camels, and camel management must be considered to control and prevent the spread and emergence of MERS-CoV.

The increasing frequency of spillover of zoonotic pathogens from animals to humans in recent years highlights a need to develop a more comprehensive framework to investigate and prevent pathogens of animal origin, including rodents. Despite the presence of several species of rodents, there is a certain knowledge gap regarding rodent-borne zoonoses in Qatar. The current review provides an update on rodent-borne zoonoses in Qatar, its possible drivers and transmission dynamics, and proposed a One Health framework for intervention. Following an extensive literature review, we conducted a field investigation. Then the qualitative information and knowledge gaps were addressed with a virtual discussion with national, regional, and international experts in the relevant field. Overall, Rattus norvegicus population was found to be more prevalent, followed by Rattus rattus, and M. musculus, which are mainly found in animal farms, followed by agricultural farms, residential areas, and other facilities. Over 50% of rodents carry at least one pathogen of public health importance. Several pathogens were identified at the human, animal, and ecosystem interface, which can be mediated in transmission by rodents. E. coli, Salmonella spp., and Campylobacter spp. are the frequently reported bacteria. Hymenolepis spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia spp., Entamoeba spp., and Toxoplasma spp. are the major parasites. In addition, many vectors, including Ornithonyssus bacoti and Xenopsylla astia were reported in this country. Based on the changes over the past 70 years in Qatar, seven drivers have been identified, which could be important in rodent-borne disease emergences, such as the Oil and gas revolution, fast population growth, rapid urbanization, importation of food and agricultural products, agricultural and livestock development, farm biosecurity, and stray animals. The experts emphasized that mixed-species animal farming with poor biosecurity and management can be associated to increase the risk of zoonoses. Moreover, rapid urbanization and global climate change together can alter the ecosystem of the country and impact on vectors and vector-borne diseases. Finally, the One Health framework has been proposed for the surveillance, and mitigation of any future spillover or epidemic of rodent-borne zoonoses.

Abstract Bats are the natural reservoir host for many pathogenic and non‐pathogenic viruses, potentially spilling over to humans and domestic animals directly or via an intermediate host. The ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic is the continuation of virus spillover events that have taken place over the last few decades, particularly in Asia and Africa. Therefore, these bat‐associated epidemics provide a significant number of hints, including respiratory cellular tropism, more intense susceptibility to these cell types, and overall likely to become a pandemic for the next spillover. In this systematic review, we analysed data to insight, through bat‐originated spillover in Asia and Africa. We used STATA/IC‐13 software for descriptive statistics and meta‐analysis. The random effect of meta‐analysis showed that the pooled estimates of case fatality rates of bat‐originated viral zoonotic diseases were higher in Africa (61.06%, 95%CI: 50.26 to 71.85, l2% = 97.3, p

Rodents serve as an important reservoir or carrier of zoonotic pathogens on a global scale [...]

Avian influenza viruses (AIV) have been frequently detected in live bird markets (LBMs) around the world, primarily in urban areas, and have the ability to spillover to other species, including humans. Despite frequent detection of AIV in urban LBMs, the contamination of AIV on environmental surfaces in rural and peri-urban LBMs in Bangladesh is poorly documented. Therefore, we conducted this study to determine the prevalence of AIV subtypes within a subset of peri-urban and rural LBMs in Bangladesh and to further identify associated risk factors. Between 2017 and 2018, we collected faecal and offal samples from 200 stalls in 63 LBMs across four sub-districts. We tested the samples for the AIV matrix gene (M-gene) followed by H5, H7, and H9 subtypes using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). We performed a descriptive analysis of market cleanliness and sanitation practices in order to further elucidate the relationship between LBM biosecurity and AIV subtypes by species, sample types, and landscape. Subsequently, we conducted a univariate analysis and a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) to determine the risk factors associated with AIV contamination at individual stalls within LBMs. Our findings indicate that practices related to hygiene and the circulation of AIV significantly differed between rural and peri-urban live bird markets. 42.5% (95% CI: 35.56–49.67) of stalls were positive for AIV. A/H5, A/H9, and A HA/Untyped were detected in 10.5% (95% CI: 6.62–15.60), 9% (95% CI: 5.42–13.85), and 24.0% (95% CI: 18.26–30.53) of stalls respectively, with no detection of A/H7. Significantly higher levels of AIV were found in the Sonali chicken strain compared to the exotic broiler, and in offal samples compared to fecal samples. In the GLMM analysis, we identified several significant risk factors associated with AIV contamination in LBMs at the stall level. These include: landscape (AOR: 3.02; 95% CI: 1.18–7.72), the number of chicken breeds present (AOR: 2.4; 95% CI: 1.01–5.67), source of birds (AOR: 2.35; 95% CI: 1.0–5.53), separation of sick birds (AOR: 3.04; 95% CI: 1.34–6.92), disposal of waste/dead birds (AOR: 3.16; 95% CI: 1.41–7.05), cleaning agent (AOR: 5.99; 95% CI: 2.26–15.82), access of dogs (AOR: 2.52; 95% CI: 1.12–5.7), wild birds observed on site (AOR: 2.31; 95% CI: 1.01–5.3). The study further revealed a substantial prevalence of AIV with H5 and H9 subtypes in peri-urban and rural LBMs. The inadequate biosecurity measures at poultry stalls in Bangladesh increase the risk of AIV transmission from poultry to humans. To prevent the spread of AIV to humans and wild birds, we suggest implementing regular surveillance at live bird markets and enhancing biosecurity practices in peri-urban and rural areas in Bangladesh.

During the increasing spread of COVID-19 occurrences in Chattogram Metropolitan Area (CMA) of Bangladesh, a series of measures were taken to control the transmission. These measures greatly influenced the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the population on their dietary behavior. However, there are no current studies demonstrating the KAP of the CMA citizens regarding their dietary habit that can boost the immunity. In this study, we appraised KAP in regard to immunity boosting dietary behavior from April 26, 2021 to November 17, 2021 during implementation of lockdown measures by the government of Bangladesh. Apart from the basic knowledge and attitudes toward immunity boosting dietary behavior, we have also aimed to assess the practices of the population by whether the nutrients, especially vitamin A, B6, B9, B12, C, D, E, and trace minerals such as zinc, selenium, and iron were included in their diet and in what frequency. This study is a cross-sectional study, and the participants were recruited using both online platforms during the lockdown and through in-person interviews after the withdrawal of lockdown. After obtaining the proper consent from the participants, their sociodemographic variables, and KAP towards immunity boosting dietary behavior were assessed. Total 400 participants were included in this study and a non-probability sampling technique named purposive sampling has been followed for participants recruitment. Among the 400 participants, the majority of them (64.3%) were male, most of them (62.7%) were students, unmarried (69.5%), aged between 18-35 years (82.5%), had a bachelor's degree (50.0%), and had a monthly family income between 10000-30000 BDT (35.5%). This study indicated that 82.8% of the populations had the correct knowledge, 71.3% had favorable attitudes, and 44% had good practices regarding immunity boosting diet during COVID-19. The majority (79.3%) of the participants had an idea about nutrition, most of them (78.5%) knew the nutrients needed to strengthen their immune system, almost all (98.5%) washed fruits and vegetables purchased from the market before eating them, 78% did not often purchase food online, and 53% often ate junk food. In a binary logistic regression, correct knowledge was significantly associated with the females, having HSC or bachelor's degree, being in the occupation of business, laborer or others, and having a monthly family income between 50000-100000 or >100000. The favorable attitudes were significantly associated with having a master's degree or above, and for government job holders. However, the good practices did not show any significant association with the sociodemographic factors in binary logistic regression. Moreover, the study found the presence of bad or unhealthy practices among the populations despite having correct knowledge and favorable attitudes. Thus, this study could identify the variables, such as gender differences, education, monthly family income, and occupation on which emphasis should be given during public health campaigns or training programs to improve the KAP regarding immunity boosting diet.

IntroductionAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat for humans and animals. Environmental contamination of antimicrobials from human and domestic animal feces has been linked to AMR in wildlife populations, including rhesus macaques. This study aimed to describe the eco-epidemiology of AMR within Salmonella and Staphylococcus species isolated from rhesus macaques.MethodsWe followed macaque groups for 4 h per day (2 days) to observe the direct and indirect contact rate and type between macaques and people and livestock. We collected 399 freshly defecated, non-invasive fecal samples from macaques at seven sites in Bangladesh in January–June 2017. Bacterial isolation and identification were conducted using culture, biochemical characteristics, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). An antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST) for 12 antimicrobials for each organism was conducted using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method.ResultsThe overall prevalence of Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus spp. in rhesus macaques was 5% (n = 18; 95% CI: 3–7%) and 16% (n = 64; 95% CI: 13–20%), respectively. All the isolated Salmonella spp. and most of the Staphylococcus spp. (95%; 61/64; 95% CI: 86.9–99%) were resistant to at least one antimicrobial. The odds of a fecal sample having antimicrobial-resistant Salmonella spp (OR = 6.6; CI: 0.9–45.8, P = 0.05) and Staphylococcus spp. (OR = 5.6; CI: 1.2–26, P = 0.02) were significantly higher in samples collected at peri-urban sites than those collected at rural and urban sites. Salmonella spp. were most frequently resistant to tetracycline (89%), azithromycin (83%), sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (50%), and nalidixic acid (44%). Staphylococcus spp. were found to be highly resistant to ampicillin (93%), methicillin (31%), clindamycin (26%), and rifampicin (18%). Both bacterial species produced colonies with multidrug resistance to up to seven antimicrobials. Direct and indirect contact rates (within 20 m for at least 15 min) and resource sharing between macaques and people were higher in urban sites, while macaque-livestock contact rates were higher in rural sites.DiscussionThe study shows that resistant microorganisms are circulating in rhesus macaque, and direct and indirect contact with humans and livestock might expand the resistant organisms.

The avian influenza virus (AIV) impacts poultry production, food security, livelihoods, and the risk of transmission to humans. Poultry, like pigeons and quail farming, is a growing sector in Bangladesh. However, the role of pigeons and quails in AIV transmission is not fully understood. Hence, we conducted this study to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of AIV subtypes in pigeons and quails at live bird markets (LBMs) in Bangladesh. We collected oropharyngeal and cloacal swab samples from 626 birds in 8 districts of Bangladesh from 2017 to 2021. We tested the swab samples for the matrix gene (M gene) followed by H5, H7, and H9 subtypes using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). We then used exploratory analysis to investigate the seasonal and temporal patterns of AIV and a mixed effect logistic model to identify the variable that influences the presence of AIV in pigeons and quails. The overall prevalence of AIV was 25.56%. We found that the prevalence of AIV in pigeons is 17.36%, and in quail is 38.75%. The prevalence of A/H5, A/H9, and A/H5/H9 in quail is 4.17, 17.92, and 1.67%, respectively. Furthermore, the prevalence of A/H5, A/H9, and A/H5/H9 in pigeons is 2.85, 2.59, and 0.26%. We also found that the prevalence of AIV was higher in the dry season than in the wet season in both pigeons and quail. In pigeons, the prevalence of A/untyped (40%) increased considerably in 2020. In quail, however, the prevalence of A/H9 (56%) significantly increased in 2020. The mixed-effect logistic regression model showed that the vendors having waterfowl (AOR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.04–4.33), purchasing birds from the wholesale market (AOR: 2.96; 95% CI: 1.48–5.92) instead of farms, mixing sick birds with the healthy ones (AOR: 1.60; 95% CI: 1.04–2.45) and mingling unsold birds with new birds (AOR: 3.07; 95% CI: 2.01–4.70) were significantly more likely to be positive for AIV compared with vendors that did not have these characteristics. We also found that the odds of AIV were more than twice as high in quail (AOR: 2.57; 95% CI: 1.61–4.11) as in pigeons. Furthermore, the likelihood of AIV detection was 4.19 times higher in sick and dead birds (95% CI: 2.38–7.35) than in healthy birds. Our study revealed that proper hygienic practices at the vendors in LBM are not maintained. We recommend improving biosecurity practices at the vendor level in LBM to limit the risk of AIV infection in pigeons and quail in Bangladesh.

Dirofilariasis is an emerging vector-borne tropical disease of public health importance that mainly affects humans and dogs. Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens are the two well-documented dirofilariasis-causing filarioid helminths of both medical and veterinary concerns in India and Sri Lanka. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to describe and summarize the current evidence of dirofilariasis prevalence and distribution in India and Sri Lanka. Interestingly, D. repens is reported to circulate in both dogs (prevalence of 35.8% (95% CI: 11.23–60.69)) and humans (97% of published case reports) in India and Sri Lanka, but D. immitis is reported to be present in the dog populations in India (prevalence of 9.7% (95% CI: 8.5–11.0%)), and so far, it has not been reported in Sri Lanka. This peculiar distribution of D. immitis and D. repens in the two neighbouring countries could be due to the interaction between the two parasite species, which could affect the pattern of infection of the two worm species in dogs and thus influence the geographical distribution of these two filarial worms. In medical and veterinary practice, histopathology was the most commonly used diagnostic technique (31.3%; 95% CI 2.5–60.2%). The low specificity of histopathology to speciate the various Dirofilaria spp. may lead to misdiagnosis. It was identified in this study that several regions of India and Sri Lanka have not yet been surveyed for dirofilariasis. This limits our understanding of the geographical distribution and interspecies interactions of the two parasites within these countries. Parasite distribution, disease prevalence, and interspecies interactions between the vectors and the host should be targeted for future research.

South Asian (SA) countries have been fighting with the pandemic novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) since January 2020. Earlier, the country-specific descriptive study has been done. Nevertheless, as transboundary infection, the border sharing, shared cultural and behavioral practice, effects on the temporal and spatial distribution of COVID-19 in SA is still unveiled. Therefore, this study has been revealed the spatial hotspot along with descriptive output on different parameters of COVID-19 infection. We extracted data from the WHO and the worldometer database from the onset of the outbreak up to 15 May, 2020. Europe has the highest case fatality rate (CFR, 9.22%), whereas Oceania has the highest (91.15%) recovery rate from COVID-19. Among SA countries, India has the highest number of cases (85,790), followed by Pakistan (38,799) and Bangladesh (20,065). However, the number of tests conducted was minimum in this region in comparison with other areas. The highest CFR was recorded in India (3.21%) among SA countries, whereas Nepal and Bhutan had no death record due to COVID-19 so far. The recovery rate varies from 4.75% in the Maldives to 51.02% in Sri Lanka. In Bangladesh, community transmission has been recorded, and the highest number of cases were detected in Dhaka, followed by Narayanganj and Chattogram. We detected Dhaka and its surrounding six districts, namely Gazipur, Narsingdi, Narayanganj, Munshiganj, Manikganj, and Shariatpur, as the 99% confidence-based hotspot where Faridpur and Madaripur district as the 95% confidence-based spatial hotspots of COVID-19 in Bangladesh. However, we did not find any cold spots in Bangladesh. We identified three hotspots and three cold spots at different confidence levels in India. Findings from this study suggested the “Test, Trace, and Isolation” approach for earlier detection of infection to prevent further community transmission of COVID-19.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Several treatments are available for cancer treatment, but many treatment methods are ineffective against multidrug-resistant cancer. Multidrug resistance (MDR) represents a major obstacle to effective therapeutic interventions against cancer. This review describes the known MDR mechanisms in cancer cells and discusses ongoing laboratory approaches and novel therapeutic strategies that aim to inhibit, circumvent, or reverse MDR development in various cancer types. In this review, we discuss both intrinsic and acquired drug resistance, in addition to highlighting hypoxia- and autophagy-mediated drug resistance mechanisms. Several factors, including individual genetic differences, such as mutations, altered epigenetics, enhanced drug efflux, cell death inhibition, and various other molecular and cellular mechanisms, are responsible for the development of resistance against anticancer agents. Drug resistance can also depend on cellular autophagic and hypoxic status. The expression of drug-resistant genes and the regulatory mechanisms that determine drug resistance are also discussed. Methods to circumvent MDR, including immunoprevention, the use of microparticles and nanomedicine might result in better strategies for fighting cancer.

Abstract Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing concern globally, but the impact is very deleterious in the context of Bangladesh. Recent review article on the AMR issue demonstrates the scenario in human medicine; unfortunately, no attempt was taken to address this as One Health issue. The antimicrobial resistance bacteria or genes are circulating in the fragile ecosystems and disseminate into human food chain through direct or indirect ways. In this systematic review we are exploring the mechanism or the process of development of resistance pathogen into human food chain via the domestic animal, wildlife and environmental sources in the context of One Health and future recommendation to mitigate this issue in Bangladesh. Results Tetracycline resistance genes were presenting in almost all sample sources in higher concentrations against enteric pathogen Escherichia coli. The second most significant antibiotics are amino-penicillin that showed resistant pattern across different source of samples. It is a matter of concerns that cephalosporin tends to acquire resistance in wildlife species that might be an indication of this antibiotic resistance gene or the pathogen been circulating in our surrounding environment though the mechanism is still unclear. Conclusions Steps to control antibiotic release and environmental disposal from all uses should be immediate and obligatory. There is a need for detailed system biology analysis of resistance development in-situ.

This study aimed to estimate the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns and tetracycline-resistant gene profiles of Escherichia coli (E. coli) from broiler meat and livers sourced from live bird markets (LBMs) and supermarkets (SMs) in Chattogram, Bangladesh. In total, 405 samples were collected from SMs and LBMs, comprising muscle (n = 215) and liver (n = 190) samples. Disc diffusion tests were used to determine antimicrobial susceptibility profiles. PCR was used to identify E. coli and tetracycline-resistant genes. Over half (57%) of the chicken product samples were positive for E. coli. The AMR profiling of these isolates showed that the highest prevalence of resistance was against sulphamethoxazole–trimethoprim (89%), followed by tetracycline (87%), ampicillin (83%), and ciprofloxacin (61%). Among the antimicrobials listed by the World Health Organization as critically important, E. coli isolates were found to be resistant to cephalexin (37%), gentamicin (32%), and colistin sulfate (21%). A large proportion of E. coli demonstrated multi-drug resistance (MDR). Most (84%) of the tetracycline-resistant isolates encoded tetA. Of the remaining isolates, 0.5% encoded tetC, 6.0% encoded two genes, and 3.6% of isolates were tetD, which was newly identified by this study in Bangladesh. Broiler products in Bangladesh are frequently contaminated with multi-drug-resistant E. coli, with differential carriage of tetracycline genes. The prevalence of tetracycline resistance among E. coli indicates a concern for poultry health and welfare regarding the management of colibacillosis. It also indicates growing public health risks of AMR among broiler-associated pathogens, which can be transferred to humans via the food chain. Appropriate control measures should be developed and implemented, focused on the rational use of antimicrobials in poultry farming systems, to mitigate risk from this drug-resistant zoonotic pathogen from foods of animal origin and to protect public health.

Background The avian influenza virus (AIV) causes significant economic losses by infecting poultry and occasional spillover to humans. Backyard farms are vulnerable to AIV epidemics due to poor health management and biosecurity practices, threatening rural households’ economic stability and nutrition. We have limited information about the risk factors associated with AIV infection in backyard poultry in Bangladesh. Hence, we conducted a cross-sectional survey comprising epidemiological and anthropological investigations to understand the poultry rearing practices and risk factors of AIV circulation among backyard poultry in selected rural communities. Methods We sampled 120 poultry from backyard farms (n = 30) of the three selected communities between February 2017 and January 2018. We tested swab samples for the matrix gene (M gene) followed by H5, H7, and H9 subtypes using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). We applied multivariable logistic regression for risk factor analysis. Furthermore, we conducted an observational study (42 hours) and informal interviews (n = 30) with backyard farmers to record poultry-raising activities in rural communities. Results We detected that 25.2% of the backyard poultry tested positive for AIV, whereas 5% tested positive for H5N1 and 10.8% tested positive for H9N2. Results showed that scavenging in both household garden and other crop fields has higher odds of AIV than scavenging in the household garden (AOR: 24.811; 95% CI: 2.11–292.28), and keeping a cage inside the house has higher odds (AOR:14.5; 95% CI: 1.06–198.51) than keeping it in the veranda, cleaning the cage twice a week or weekly has a higher risk than cleaning daily (AOR: 34.45; 95% CI: 1.04–1139.65), dumping litter or droppings (AOR: 82.80; 95% CI: 3.91–1754.59) and dead birds or wastage (AOR: 109.92, 95% CI: 4.34–2785.29) near water bodies and bushes have a higher risk than burring in the ground, slaughtering and consuming sick birds also had a higher odd of AIV (AOR: 73.45, 95% CI: 1.56–3457.73) than treating the birds. The anthropological investigation revealed that household members had direct contact with the poultry in different ways, including touching, feeding, slaughtering, and contacting poultry feces. Poultry is usually kept inside the house, sick poultry are traditionally slaughtered and eaten, and most poultry raisers do not know that diseases can transmit from backyard poultry to humans. Conclusions This study showed the circulation of H5N1 and H9N2 virus in backyard poultry in rural communities; associated with species, scavenging area of the poultry, location of the poultry cage, the practice of litter, wastage, droppings, and dead bird disposal, and practice of handling sick poultry. We suggest improving biosecurity practices in backyard poultry and mass awareness campaigns to reduce incidences of AIV in household-level poultry farms in rural communities in Bangladesh.

Consumption of milk contaminated with antibiotic residues above the maximum residue limit (MRL) causes toxicity to humans and the development of superbugs that leads to the failure of antibiotic therapy and threatens human life. Moreover, long-duration exposure might alter the nature of gut microflora, resulting in the enhancement of many diseases. Therefore, our study aims to find out the residues level of selected antibiotics in milk and assessments of humans health risks. We examined 300 raw and processed milk samples using thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) methods against five veterinary antibiotics and assessed the health risk for consumers in Chattogram, Bangladesh. Risk analysis was done by using a hazard quotient based on 165 ml per capita milk consumption. We found a total of 7 % prevalence of antibiotic residues in raw milk, which were higher (8 %) in individual milk samples than the pooled samples (4 %). However, we did not find any antibiotic residues in processed milk. The mean concentration of oxytetracycline residue was detected at 61.29 μg/l, and amoxicillin was 124 μg/l in individual milk samples. Risk analysis showed that, the hazard quotient values are 0.0056 for oxytetracycline and 0.0017 for amoxicillin residues. This result implied no significant health risks associated with the consumption of milk produced and marketed in the study area. Our study might fill up the gaps of knowledge in measuring the safety status of milk regarding public health issues.

Mastitis is considered to be the most devastating condition for the dairy farms of low and medium income countries due to its alarming impact on production and worldwide has been recognized as one of the most economically significant infectious diseases affecting the welfare of dairy animal. Chittagong is one of the dairy intensive regions of Bangladesh but comprehensive epidemiological studies addressing prevalence of and risk factors for subclinical mastitis (SCM) are scant. Therefore we aimed to approximate the prevalence of SCM in dairy cows along with the associated risk factors in dairy cows of Chittagong Metropolitan Area (CMA), Bangladesh. We included 114 cross breed (Holstein × Local) lactating cows, raised at 6 dairy farms in CMA between February to November, 2015 for this study. California Mastitis Test (CMT) was used to assess SCM at animal level. The overall prevalence of mastitis was 34.2% among the tested cows. Floor type, source of replacement cows, history of previous reproductive disorder, stage of lactation and cleanliness of floor was found significantly associated with SCM in univariate analysis. In random effect multiple logistic regression model, cemented floor was found to increase the odds of SCM by 5.03 times than that of brick floor. Similarly, cows with history of reproductive disorders had more risk of having SCM than that of cows without a history of reproductive disorders. Since the SCM is prevalent in the study area, the intervention strategy should focus on causal agent, improved management, frequent monitoring of SCM in milking cows with CMT and use of teat disinfectants; with minimal or no treatment with antimicrobial agents.

Objective: Parasitic infestation is a major cause of losses in livestock production in tropical regions. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Gastro-intestinal (GI) parasites of dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) and fat-tailed sheep (dhumba), and the prevalence of hemoparasites in camel from Dhaka, Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: A total of 87 fecal samples (32 dhumba and 55 camel) and 55 camel blood samples were collected during SeptemberOctober 2015. Fecal samples were examined by direct smear, sedimentation method, flotation technique, and McMaster technique for GI parasite. Giemsa stained blood smears were examined under microscope for hemoparasite detection. Results: 62% camel (n = 34; 95% confidence interval (CI): 47.774.6) were infected with at least one genus of parasite. 15% camel were harboring more than one genus of parasite. The prevalence of GI parasite and hemoparasite in camel were recorded as Trichuris spp. (n = 16; 29%; 95% CI: 17.642.9), Balantidium coli (n = 12; 22%; 95% CI: 11.835.0), Trichostrongylus spp. (n = 7; 13%; 95% CI: 5.324.5), Strongyloides spp. (n = 5; 9%; 95% CI: 3.020.0), Anaplasma spp. (n = 5; 9%; 95% CI: 3.0220.0), Paragonimus spp. (n = 1; 2%; 95% CI: 0.059.7), Schistosoma spp. (n = 1; 2%; 95% CI: 0.059.7), Hymenolepis spp. (n = 1; 2%; 95% CI: 0.059.7), Moniezia spp. (n = 1; 2%; 95% CI: 0.059.7), and Babesia spp. (n = 1; 2%; 95% CI: 0.059.7). Mean EPG feces of camel was 291.76 ± 42.03 with a range of 01,400. Total 59.4% dhumba (n = 19; 95% CI: 4176) were positive for GI parasite, including Trichostrongylus spp. (n = 10; 31.3%; 95% CI: 16.150), Strongyloides spp. (n = 9; 28%; 95% CI: 13.846.8), B. coli(n = 5; 15.6%; 95% CI: 5.332.8), and Trichuris spp. (n = 4; 12.5%; 95% CI: 3.528.9). Conclusions: High percentage of parasitic infestation in camel and dhumba in the present study refers to the necessity of use of anthelmintic for health and production improvement and to prevent zoonotic parasite transmission to animal handler and workers. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2019; 6(1.000): 142-147]

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a waterborne zoonotic disease that can result in a high fatality rate in pregnant women and infants. In 2018, a large HEV outbreak emerged in Chattogram, Bangladesh, resulting in 2800 cases and a significant public health response to mitigate the transmission. While the source of the outbreak remained poorly understood, authorities suggested that possible risk factors for HEV infection included contamination of water supply, exacerbated by concurrent severe flooding events in the community. A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the distribution and risk factors for HEV seroprevalence between January and December 2018 in the Chattogram city area. A total of 505 blood samples were collected from symptomatic patients of 10 hospitals who met the case definition for an HEV infection. Standard ELISA tests were performed in all patients to identify anti-HEV antibodies. The size and location of HEV seroprevalence clusters within Chattogram were investigated using SaTScan. We investigated the association between risk of HEV infection and individual and environmentally lagged risk factors using Bernoulli generalised linear regression models. Our results indicate an overall HEV seroprevalence of 35% with significant variation according to sex, source of drinking water, and boiling of drinking water. A positive cross-correlation was found between HEV exposure and precipitation, modified normalised difference water index (MNDWI), and normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI). Our model indicated that risk of infection was associated with sex, age, source of drinking water, boiling of water, increased precipitation, and increased MNDWI. The results from this study indicate that source and boiling of drinking water and increased precipitation were critical drivers of the 2018 HEV outbreak. The communities at highest risk identified in our analyses should be targeted for investments in safe water infrastructure to reduce the likelihood of future HEV outbreaks in Chattogram.

With the progression of the global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the new variants have become more infectious and continue spreading at a higher rate than pre-existing ones. Thus, we conducted a study to explore the epidemiology of emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 that circulated in Bangladesh from December 2020 to September 2021, representing the 2nd and 3rd waves. We collected new cases and deaths per million daily data with the reproduction rate. We retrieved 928 SARS-CoV-2 sequences from GISAID and performed phylogenetic tree construction and mutation analysis. Case counts were lower initially at the end of 2020, during January–February and April–May 2021, whereas the death toll reached the highest value of 1.587 per million on the first week of August and then started to decline. All the variants (α, β, δ, η) were prevalent in the capital city, Dhaka, with dispersion to large cities, such as Sylhet and Chattogram. The B.1.1.25 lineage was prevalent during December 2020, but the B.1.617.2/δ variant was later followed by the B.1.351/β variant. The phylogeny revealed that the various strains found in Bangladesh could be from numerous countries. The intra-cluster and inter-cluster communication began in Bangladesh soon after the virus arrived. The prominent amino acid substitution was D614G from December 2020 to July 2021 (93.5 to 100%). From February–April, one of the VOC’s important mutations, N501Y substitution, was also estimated at 51.8%, 76.1%, and 65.1% for the α, β and γ variants, respectively. The γ variant’s unique mutation K417T was detected only at 1.8% in February. Another frequent mutation was P681R, a salient feature of the δ variant, detected in June (88.2%) and July (100%). Furthermore, only one γ variant was detected during the entire second and third wave, whereas no η variant was observed in this period. This rapid growth in the number of variants identified across Bangladesh shows virus adaptation and a lack of strict quarantine, prompting periodic genomic surveillance to foresee the spread of new variants, if any, and to take preventive measures as soon as possible.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health crisis that is now impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known how COVID-19 risks influence people to consume antibiotics, particularly in contexts like Bangladesh where these pharmaceuticals can be purchased without a prescription. This paper identifies the social drivers of antibiotics use among home-based patients who have tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 or have COVID-19-like symptoms. Using qualitative telephone interviews, the research was conducted in two Bangladesh cities with 40 participants who reported that they had tested positive for coronavirus (n = 20) or had COVID-19-like symptoms (n = 20). Our analysis identified five themes in antibiotic use narratives: antibiotics as 'big' medicine; managing anxiety; dealing with social repercussions of COVID-19 infection; lack of access to COVID-19 testing and healthcare services; and informal sources of treatment advice. Antibiotics were seen to solve physical and social aspects of COVID-19 infection, with urgent ramifications for AMR in Bangladesh and more general implications for global efforts to mitigate AMR.

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) showed susceptibility to diverse animal species. We conducted this study to understand the spatial epidemiology, genetic diversity, and statistically significant genetic similarity along with per-gene recombination events of SARS-CoV-2 and related viruses (SC2r-CoVs) in animals globally. We collected a number of different animal species infected with SARS-CoV-2 and its related viruses. Then, we retrieved genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 and SC2r-CoVs from GISAID and NCBI GenBank for genomic and mutational analysis. Although the evolutionary origin of SARS-CoV-2 remains elusive, the diverse SC2r-CoV have been detected in multiple Rhinolophus bat species and in Malayan pangolin. To date, human-to-animal spillover events have been reported in cat, dog, tiger, lion, gorilla, leopard, ferret, puma, cougar, otter, and mink in 25 countries. Phylogeny and genetic recombination events of SC2r-CoVs showed higher similarity to the bat coronavirus RaTG13 and BANAL-103 for most of the genes and to some Malayan pangolin coronavirus (CoV) strains for the N protein from bats and pangolin showed close resemblance to SARS-CoV-2. The clustering of animal and human strains from the same geographical area has proved human-to-animal transmission of the virus. The Alpha, Delta and Mu-variant of SARS-CoV-2 was detected in dog, gorilla, lion, tiger, otter, and cat in the USA, India, Czech Republic, Belgium, and France with momentous genetic similarity with human SARS-CoV-2 sequences. The mink variant mutation (spike_Y453F) was detected in both humans and domestic cats. Moreover, the dog was affected mostly by clade O (66.7%), whereas cat and American mink were affected by clade GR (31.6 and 49.7%, respectively). The α-variant was detected as 2.6% in cat, 4.8% in dog, 14.3% in tiger, 66.7% in gorilla, and 77.3% in lion. The highest mutations observed in mink where the substitution of D614G in spike (95.2%) and P323L in NSP12 (95.2%) protein. In dog, cat, gorilla, lion, and tiger, Y505H and Y453F were the common mutations followed by Y145del, Y144del, and V70I in S protein. We recommend vaccine provision for pet and zoo animals to reduce the chance of transmission in animals. Besides, continuous epidemiological and genomic surveillance of coronaviruses in animal host is crucial to find out the immediate ancestor of SARS-CoV-2 and to prevent future CoVs threats to humans.

BackgroundWhile vaccines ensure individual protection against COVID-19 infection, delay in receipt or refusal of vaccines will have both individual and community impacts. The behavioral factors of vaccine hesitancy or refusal are a crucial dimension that need to be understood in order to design appropriate interventions. The aim of this study was to explore the behavioral determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and to provide recommendations to increase the acceptance and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines in Bangladesh.MethodsWe employed a Barrier Analysis (BA) approach to examine twelve potential behavioral determinants (drawn from the Health Belief Model [HBM] and Theory of Reasoned Action [TRA]) of intended vaccine acceptance. We conducted 45 interviews with those who intended to take the vaccine (Acceptors) and another 45 interviews with those who did not have that intention (Non-acceptors). We performed data analysis to find statistically significant differences and to identify which beliefs were most highly associated with acceptance and non-acceptance with COVID-19 vaccines.ResultsThe behavioral determinants associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Dhaka included perceived social norms, perceived safety of COVID-19 vaccines and trust in them, perceived risk/susceptibility, perceived self-efficacy, perceived positive and negative consequences, perceived action efficacy, perceived severity of COVID-19, access, and perceived divine will. In line with the HBM, beliefs about the disease itself were highly predictive of vaccine acceptance, and some of the strongest statistically-significant (pConclusionAn effective behavior change strategy for COVID-19 vaccines uptake will need to address multiple beliefs and behavioral determinants, reducing barriers and leveraging enablers identified in this study. National plans for promoting COVID-19 vaccination should address the barriers, enablers, and behavioral determinants found in this study in order to maximize the impact on COVID-19 vaccination acceptance.

Objective: There is scarce literature regarding hematology profile of fat-tailed sheep (Dhumba). The study was conducted to determine reference intervals for their hematology profile in the context of Bangladesh. Materials and methods: Blood samples were collected from 32 healthy fat-tailed sheep from Dhaka, Bangladesh, during SeptemberOctober, 2015. Hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), total leukocyte count (TLC), total erythrocyte count (TEC), lymphocyte, monocyte, eosinophil, basophil, and neutrophil counts were measured. Results: The levels showed a wide range and variation based on age and sex. Adult sheep had significantly (p = 0.01) higher Hb level than that of juvenile ( [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2018; 5(4.000): 481-484]

Aim: The study was aimed to determine the reference values of most commonly used hematological and biochemical parameters of indigenous sheep, reared under semi-intensive backyard farms in Dhaka and Chittagong district, Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: A total of 41 blood samples were collected from indigenous sheep (Ovis aries) from June to December 2016 from Dhaka and Chittagong Districts of Bangladesh. Hematological and serum biochemical parameters such as hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), total erythrocyte count (TEC), total leukocyte count (TLC), neutrophil, eosinophil, basophil, monocyte, lymphocyte, urea, triglyceride, cholesterol, glucose, albumin, total protein (TP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) were determined by biochemical analyzer. 90% reference intervals were calculated for all parameters. Results: The hematological and serum biochemical profiles of indigenous sheep showed wide range and variation. The results were categorized according to sex and age of the sheep for comparison. Young sheep had significantly higher PCV, eosinophil, triglyceride, and TP level than that of adult (p

Objective: A significant number of animals enrolled at UVH regularly from surrounding villages for treating their sick animals, de-worming, vaccination purposes. Therefore, a study was done to define the occurrence of common diseases and disease conditions in cattle and goats at the Upazilla Veterinary Hospital, Debidwar under Comilla district. Materials and methods: Data on various diseases were collected from the record book of hospital during April 2016 to March 2017. The total number of animals were 889, among which cattle were 637 (71.65%) and goats were 252 (28.35%). The presumptive diagnosis was performed based on general examination, physical examination, and clinical examination of animals, and microscopic examination based on common laboratory techniques. Results: Based on clinical examinations, 14 different types of diseases and disease conditions were detected. In cattle (N=637; 71.65%), where FMD (14.44%, n=92), mastitis (6.59%, n=42), digestive disorders (19%, n=121), respiratory disorders (6.12%, n=39), parasitic infestations such as mixed infestation of both ecto- and endo-parasites (34.22%, n=218), acidosis (1.88%, n=12), myiasis (6.12%, n=39), corneal opacity (1.57%, n=10), protozoal diseases (1.26%, n=8), BQ (2.20%, n=14), milk fever (0.94%, n=6), reproductive disorders (4.87%, n=31) and others (0.75%, n=5) were detected. Age wise prevalence in young and adult were (38.62%, n=246) and (61.38%, n=391), respectively. Moreover, sex wise prevalence in male and female were (34.85%, n=222) and (65.15%, n=415) respectively. In goat, (N= 252; 28.35%) 11 different types of diseases and disease conditions such as PPR (12.30%, n=31), mastitis (2.38%, n=6), digestive disorders (19.84%, n=50), parasitic infestation (29.76%, n=75), respiratory disorders (15.08, n=38), myiasis (11.11%, n=28), corneal opacity (4.76%, n=12), acidosis (1.98%, n=5) protozoal diseases such as babesiosis, anaplasmosis (0.79%, n=2) and reproductive disorders (1.59%, n=4), correspondingly. Sex wise prevalence in male and female goat were (44.05%, n=111) and (55.95%, n=141), respectively. Conclusion: All the diseases and disease conditionswere recorded more or less frequently among all age group of cattle and goats though some of the specific diseases and disease conditionshad specific age and species susceptibility such as black quarter in young cattle and PPR in young goats, respectively. A comprehensive updated data with the total population record of that area and proper analysis is needed to identify the actual level of disease and disease conditions in UVH. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2018; 5(2.000): 117-122]

Background and Aim: Asian house shrew (Suncus murinus), a widely distributed small mammal in the South Asian region, can carry helminths of zoonotic importance. The aim of the study was to know the prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal (GI) helminths in free-ranging Asian house shrew (S. murinus) in Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: A total of 86 Asian house shrews were captured from forest areas and other habitats of Bangladesh in 2015. Gross examination of the whole GI tract was performed for gross helminth detection, and coproscopy was done for identification of specific eggs or larvae. Results: The overall prevalence of GI helminth was 77.9% (67/86), with six species including nematodes (3), cestodes (2), and trematodes (1). Of the detected helminths, the dominant parasitic group was from the genus Hymenolepis spp. (59%), followed by Strongyloides spp. (17%), Capillaria spp. (10%), Physaloptera spp. (3%), and Echinostoma spp. (3%). Conclusion: The finding shows that the presence of potential zoonotic parasites (Hymenolepis spp. and Capillaria spp.) in Asian house shrew is ubiquitous in all types of habitat (forest land, cropland and dwelling) in Bangladesh. Therefore, further investigation is crucial to examine their role in the transmission of human helminthiasis.

Current evidence indicates that more than half of all antimicrobials are used in the animal food-producing sector, which is considered a significant risk factor for the development, spread, and existence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) pathogens in animals, humans, and the environment. Among other factors, clinical etiology and the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of veterinarians are thought to be responsible for inappropriate prescriptions in the animal-source protein production sector in lower-resource settings like Bangladesh. We performed this cross-sectional study to assess factors associated with veterinarians’ antimicrobial prescription behavior and their KAP on antimicrobial use (AMU) and AMR in Bangladesh. Exploratory and multivariate logistic models were used to describe an association between knowledge, attitudes, and practices of AMU and AMR and demographic characteristics of veterinarians. The results demonstrated that when selecting an antimicrobial, there was no to minimal influence of culture and susceptibility tests and patients’ AMU history but moderate to high influence of the farmer’s economic condition and drug instructions among the veterinarians. The results also demonstrated that more than half of the veterinarians had correct KAP regarding AMU and AMR, while the rest had moderate or lower levels of KAP. The factor score analysis revealed that age, level of education, years of experience, gender, and previous training on AMU and AMR were the key influencing factors in their level of KAP. Adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that respondents’ age, current workplace, and previous training on AMU and AMR had a positive association with increased KAP. Considering the results, it is imperative to include AMR issues on vet curricula, and to provide post-education training, awareness campaigns, easy access to, and dissemination of AMR resources. Increasing the veterinary services to the outreach areas of the country and motivating veterinarians to follow the national AMR guidelines could be some other potential solutions to tackle the over-prescriptions of antimicrobials.

Zoonotic and antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli (hereafter, E. coli) is a global public health threat which can lead to detrimental effects on human health. Here, we aim to investigate the antimicrobial resistance and the presence of mcr-1 gene in E. coli isolated from chicken feces. Ninety-four E. coli isolates were obtained from samples collected from different locations in Bangladesh, and the isolates were identified using conventional microbiological tests. Phenotypic disk diffusion tests using 20 antimicrobial agents were performed according to CLSI-EUCAST guidelines, and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined for a subset of samples. E. coli isolates showed high resistance to colistin (88.30%), ciprofloxacin (77.66%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (76.60%), tigecycline (75.53%), and enrofloxacin (71.28%). Additionally, the pathotype eaeA gene was confirmed in ten randomly selected E. coli isolates using primer-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The presence of mcr-1 gene was confirmed using PCR and sequencing analysis in six out of ten E. coli isolates. Furthermore, sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed a similarity between the catalytic domain of Neisseria meningitidis lipooligosaccharide phosphoethanolamine transferase A (LptA) and MCR proteins, indicating that the six tested isolates were colistin resistant. Finally, the findings of the present study showed that E. coli isolated from chicken harbored mcr-1 gene, and multidrug and colistin resistance. These findings accentuate the need to implement strict measures to limit the imprudent use of antibiotics, particularly colistin, in agriculture and poultry farms.

Diverse coronavirus (CoV) strains can infect both humans and animals and produce various diseases. CoVs have caused three epidemics and pandemics in the last two decades, and caused a severe impact on public health and the global economy. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to understand the emergence and evolution of endemic and emerging CoV diversity in humans and animals. For diverse bird species, the Infectious Bronchitis Virus is a significant one, whereas feline enteric and canine coronavirus, recombined to produce feline infectious peritonitis virus, infects wild cats. Bovine and canine CoVs have ancestral relationships, while porcine CoVs, especially SADS-CoV, can cross species barriers. Bats are considered as the natural host of diverse strains of alpha and beta coronaviruses. Though MERS-CoV is significant for both camels and humans, humans are nonetheless affected more severely. MERS-CoV cases have been reported mainly in the Arabic peninsula since 2012. To date, seven CoV strains have infected humans, all descended from animals. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronaviruses (SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2) are presumed to be originated in Rhinolopoid bats that severely infect humans with spillover to multiple domestic and wild animals. Emerging alpha and delta variants of SARS-CoV-2 were detected in pets and wild animals. Still, the intermediate hosts and all susceptible animal species remain unknown. SARS-CoV-2 might not be the last CoV to cross the species barrier. Hence, we recommend developing a universal CoV vaccine for humans so that any future outbreak can be prevented effectively. Furthermore, a One Health approach coronavirus surveillance should be implemented at human-animal interfaces to detect novel coronaviruses before emerging to humans and to prevent future epidemics and pandemics.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has swamped the global environment greatly in the current pandemic. Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) effectively forecasts the surge of COVID-19 cases in humans in a particular region. To understand the genomic characteristics/footprints and diversity of SARS-CoV-2 in the environment, we analyzed 807 SARS-CoV-2 sequences from 20 countries deposited in GISAID till 22 May 2021. The highest number of sequences (n = 638) were reported in Austria, followed by the Netherlands, China, and Bangladesh. Wastewater samples were highest (40.0%) to successfully yield the virus genome followed by a 24 h composite wastewater sample (32.6%) and sewage (18.5%). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that SARS-CoV-2 environmental strains are a close congener with the strains mostly circulating in the human population from the same region. Clade GRY (32.7%), G (29.2%), GR (25.3%), O (7.2%), GH (3.4%), GV (1.4%), S (0.5%), and L (0.4%) were found in environmental samples. Various lineages were identified in environmental samples; nevertheless, the highest percentages (49.4%) of the alpha variant (B.1.1.7) were detected in Austria, Liechtenstein, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy. Other prevalent lineages were B.1 (18.2%), B.1.1 (9.2%), and B.1.160 (3.9%). Furthermore, a significant number of amino acid substitutions were found in environmental strains where the D614G was found in 83.8% of the sequences. However, the key mutations—N501Y (44.6%), S982A (44.4%), A570D (43.3%), T716I (40.4%), and P681H (40.1%) were also recorded in spike protein. The identification of the environmental belvedere of SARS-CoV-2 and its genetic signature is crucial to detect outbreaks, forecast pandemic harshness, and prepare with the appropriate tools to control any impending pandemic. We recommend genomic environmental surveillance to trace the emerging variants and diversity of SARS-CoV-2 viruses circulating in the community. Additionally, proper disposal and treatment of wastewater, sewage, and medical wastes are important to prevent environmental contamination.

Objective: The present study was conducted to determine the sero-prevalence of canine visceral leishmaniasis (VL) among street and owned dogs at Trishal Upazila of Mymensingh district, Bangladesh. Material and methods: Blood was collected asceptically from targeted dogs and serum was separated out using standard centrifigation method. The rK39-antigen-based dipstick test was used to detect anti-leishmania antibodies in serum. Results: The study revealed that 35% of the dogs in the study area were sero-positive for L. donovani. Living status of the dogs (street or owned) was a potential risk factor and sero-prevalence was significantly higher in free roaming street dogs (P=0.009) and dogs with skin lesions and enlarged lymph nodes (P

The current study was undertaken to estimate the morphometric pattern of three commensal rodents, i.e., Mus musculus, Rattus norvegicus, and Rattus rattus in Qatar. One hundred forty-eight rodents were captured from different facilities throughout Qatar. The captured rodents were used to identify the external body and cranio-mandibular morphometry. The study found that R. norvregicus was the most prevalent (n = 120, 81%, 95% CI: 73.83–87.05). Most of the rodents were collected from Al Rayan municipality (n = 92, 62%), were adults (n = 138, 93.2%, 95% CI: 87.92–96.71), and were from livestock farms (n = 79, 49%, 95% CI: 41.02–57.65). The rodents’ average body weights were 18.8 ± 2.2 gm, 264.3 ± 87.5 gm, and 130 ± 71.3 gm for M. musculus, R. norvegicus, and R. rattus, respectively. The research found that the studied rodents are smaller than those of other countries such as Turkey, Tunisia, and Iran. The study of morphometry is a useful tool for the traditional identification of small mammal species, including rodents. The average morphometric measurements of the external body and skull were normally distributed and can be used as a reference of R. norvegicus and R. rattus for Qatar. A further comprehensive study is required to investigate the rodent population index, eco-friendly control program, and public health importance in Qatar.

Air pollution caused by vehicle emissions has raised serious public health concerns. Vehicle emissions generally depend on many factors, such as the nature of the vehicle, driving style, traffic conditions, emission control technologies, and operational conditions. Concerns about the certification cycles used by various regulatory authorities are growing due to the difference in emission during certification procedure and Real Driving Emissions (RDE). Under laboratory conditions, certification tests are performed in a ‘chassis dynamometer’ for light-duty vehicles (LDVs) and an ‘engine dynamometer’ for heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs). As a result, the test drive cycles used to measure the automotive emissions do not correctly reflect the vehicle’s real-world driving pattern. Consequently, the RDE regulation is being phased in to reduce the disparity between type approval and vehicle’s real-world emissions. According to this review, different variables such as traffic signals, driving dynamics, congestions, altitude, ambient temperature, and so on have a major influence on actual driving pollution. Aside from that, cold-start and hot-start have been shown to have an effect on on-road pollution. Contrary to common opinion, new technology such as start-stop systems boost automotive emissions rather than decreasing them owing to unfavourable conditions from the point of view of exhaust emissions and exhaust after-treatment systems. In addition, the driving dynamics are not represented in the current laboratory-based test procedures. As a result, it is critical to establish an on-road testing protocol to obtain a true representation of vehicular emissions and reduce emissions to a standard level. The incorporation of RDE clauses into certification procedures would have a positive impact on global air quality.