Veterinaria Italiana

Canine Leishmaniasis in Eastern Algeria: Seroprevalence and Risk Factors

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

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

Genomic Links between Listeria monocytogenes in Wild Animals and the Food Chain: Insights from Central and Southern Italy

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) is a significant foodborne pathogen, posing a threat to public health. This study investigated the prevalence and genomic diversity of L. monocytogenes in 466 wild animals sampled across Central and Southern Italy (2017–2023), including species such as wild boar, red fox, and wolf, to assess their role as reservoirs and potential links to the food chain. Overall, 22.5% of the animals tested positive, and 118 L. monocytogenes strains were isolated, predominantly from wild boar (n=46), red fox (n=20), and Italian wolf (n=15).

Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) analysis revealed high genomic diversity, classifying the strains into 27 Clonal Complexes (CCs) and 31 Sequence Types (STs). Both hypervirulent clones (e.g., CC1, CC6, CC207) and hypovirulent clones (e.g., CC9, CC19), known for their persistence, were identified, with wild boars harboring a majority of the hypervirulent isolates. All strains carried key virulence genes, and accessory virulence factors, particularly LIPI-3, were detected in hypervirulent strains. Persistence factors, such as the Stress Survival Islet 1 (SSI-1) and genes for metal/disinfectant resistance (cadA, qacA), were also detected, particularly in wild boar isolates.

Crucially, core-genome MLST (cgMLST) analysis demonstrated direct genomic links between the wildlife isolates and the Italian National Reference Laboratory database. Multiple clusters were identified, connecting strains from wild animals (wild boars, foxes, wolves) with those from meat products, fresh salads, and food processing environments. A persistent CC9 cluster, circulating in the meat chain for seven years, was strongly correlated with wild boar isolates, underscoring the role of wildlife as a reservoir that continuously introduces both high-virulence and highly persistent strains into the food production system. These findings emphasize the necessity of integrating wildlife surveillance into public health strategies to mitigate the risk of zoonotic transmission, particularly through game meat consumption and handling.

Bioaccumulation of trace elements (Cd, Hg, Pb, Fe and Zn) in seven fish species, crustaceans and mussels from the Gulf of Skikda, Southern Mediterranean Sea

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

The study investigates the concentrations of five heavy metals in seven seafood species from the Gulf of Skikda, the southern Mediterranean Sea, Algeria. The aim is to assess contamination levels, and compliance with European food safety regulations.

Between February and August 2018, muscle samples were collected from five fish species (Sardina pilchardus, Sarda sarda, Mugil cephalus, Xiphias gladius, Thunnus thynnus), the deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris), and the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis). Samples were oven-dried, acid-digested, and analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) for Cd, Pb, Fe and Zn; and by the flow injection hydride analysis system (FIAS) for Hg. Data were expressed in mg kg⁻¹ wet weight (ww) and statistically compared by one-way ANOVA (p≤0.05).

The results revealed significant interspecies differences (p < 0.001) in metal accumulation patterns. Cd (0.139 mg·kg⁻¹ ww) and Hg (0.040 mg·kg⁻¹ ww) were significantly higher in grey mullet and tuna respectively (p < 0.001); both exceeding permissible regulatory limits. The remaining of heavy metals complied with guidelines. Mussels showed the highest Cd and Pb levels but remained within food safety limits. Sardines demonstrated a favorable nutritional profile, with high essential elements and low toxic metals.

The study data recommend avoiding consumption of grey mullet and avoiding regular consumption of tuna caught in the fishing areas of Skikda Bay. Regular monitoring of heavy metal contamination in Algerian seafood is necessary to ensure consumer safety.

Seroprevalence, distribution, and risk factors of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis in eastern and southern Algeria

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), caused by Bovine Herpesvirus-1 (BoHV-1), represents a significant economic burden on the global dairy industry through reduced productivity, reproductive disorders, and abortion. This cross-sectional study estimated the seroprevalence of IBR and identified associated risk factors among cattle in Eastern and Southern Algeria. Between September and December 2023, blood samples were collected from 380 cattle across 45 unvaccinated dairy farms in thirteen provinces. Sera were tested for BoHV-1 antibodies using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA), and seropositive samples underwent DIVA testing (Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals) to detect glycoprotein E (gE) antibodies. Multivariable logistic regression analysis assessed risk factor associations with seropositivity. The overall seroprevalence was 38.95% (148/380), with a 100% herd-level prevalence. Among seropositive animals, 66.89% (99/148) were gE-positive, indicating natural infection, while 33.11% (49/148) were gE-negative, suggesting prior vaccination or vaccination exposure. Multivariable analysis identified four significant risk factors (p < 0.05): exotic origin (aOR = 5.33), large herd size (aOR = 2.12), age >3 years (aOR = 1.77), and breed, with crossbreeds showing lower susceptibility (aOR = 0.15) compared to Prim'Holstein cattle. These findings demonstrate widespread circulation of IBR in Algerian cattle, predominantly through natural infection rather than vaccination. The implementation of comprehensive control strategies, including official vaccination programmes utilizing DIVA-compatible vaccines and enhanced biosecurity measures, is crucial to mitigate economic losses in Algeria's dairy sector.

First molecular identification of the zoonotic parasite Anisakis pegreffii (Nematoda: Anisakidae) in Albania

Ani Vodica, Marco Lalle, Federica Santolamazza — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

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

Tracking Pseudorabies: a case description in an Italian Hunting Dog

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

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

Occurrence of Argulus sp. Infestation with Dual Bacterial Co-infection Caused by Aeromonas hydrophila and Enterococcus faecalis in Oscar Fish (Astronotus ocellatus): A Case Report

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

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

Assessing tail-biting in slaughtered pigs – a comprehensive overview

Giuseppe Marruchella, Anastasia Romano, Andrea Capobianco Dondona — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Tail-biting is a damaging behaviour in pigs, and its occurrence is widely regarded as a reliable indicator of impaired animal welfare. Tail-docking has been the most widespread preventive measure; however, it causes acute pain, and therefore represents a welfare concern in itself. European Union legislation prohibits the routine tail-docking. Nevertheless, compliance remains inconsistent, and tail-docking continues to be widely practiced in many Member States, as well as in major pig-producing countries outside the European Union. There is growing interest in using abattoirs as suitable and cost-effective tools for monitoring pig health and welfare. Despite this, inconsistencies in recording practices hinder the reliable use of meat inspection data for animal welfare surveillance. This review provides an updated overview of tail-biting assessment at slaughter, with particular focus on the main features of available scoring methodologies, which could serve as a basis for developing an effective and widely accepted scoring system.