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Molecular identification and epidemiological tracing of Pasteurella multocida meningitis in a baby
P Boerlin1, H H Siegrist, A P Burnens
1Institute for Veterinary Bacteriology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland. patrick.boerlin@vbi.unibe.ch
Abstract:
We report a case of Pasteurella multocida meningitis in a 1-month-old baby exposed to close contact with two dogs and a cat but without any known history of injury by these animals. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the isolate from the baby allowed identification at the subspecies level and pointed to the cat as a possible source of infection. Molecular typing of Pasteurella isolates from the animals, from the baby, and from unrelated animals clearly confirmed that the cat harbored the same P. multocida subsp. septica strain on its tonsils as the one isolated from the cerebrospinal fluid of the baby. This case stresses the necessity of informing susceptible hosts at risk of contracting zoonotic agents about some basic hygiene rules when keeping pets. In addition, this study illustrates the usefulness of molecular methods for identification and epidemiological tracing of Pasteurella isolates.
Insights
A cat transmitted Pasteurella multocida subspecies septica meningitis to a 1-month-old infant. Molecular analysis confirmed the cat as the source, highlighting zoonotic risks and the importance of hygiene with pets.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Meningitis in infants poses a significant health risk.
- Pasteurella multocida is a bacterium commonly found in animals that can cause zoonotic infections.
- Close contact with pets can be a route for pathogen transmission.
Observation:
- A 1-month-old infant developed Pasteurella multocida meningitis.
- The infant had close contact with household pets (dogs and a cat) but no history of animal bites or scratches.
- The specific subspecies of Pasteurella multocida was identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
Findings:
- 16S rRNA gene sequencing identified the bacterial isolate to the subspecies level.
- Molecular typing confirmed that the cat harbored the identical Pasteurella multocida subspecies septica strain found in the infant's cerebrospinal fluid.
- The cat was identified as the likely source of the infant's meningitis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for zoonotic transmission of Pasteurella multocida from pets to humans, even without direct injury.
- It highlights the importance of educating individuals, especially those with susceptible hosts, on basic hygiene practices when living with pets.
- The study demonstrates the effectiveness of molecular techniques, such as 16S rRNA gene sequencing and molecular typing, for accurate pathogen identification and epidemiological tracing in zoonotic infections.