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Mortality in captive elk from salmonellosis.
W J Foreyt1, T E Besser, S M Lonning
1Department of Veterinary Microbiology Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman 99164-7040, USA. wforeyt@vetmed.wsu.edu
Journal of Wildlife Diseases
|April 20, 2001
Summary
Salmonella typhimurium DT104 caused high mortality in captive elk calves, presenting severe symptoms and resisting treatment. This strain is a significant pathogen in multiple species, including humans.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Wildlife Health
Background:
- Salmonella typhimurium DT104 is a significant pathogen affecting various animal species.
- Elk calves are susceptible to Salmonella infections, posing challenges in captive environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pathogenicity and characteristics of a Salmonella typhimurium DT104 outbreak in captive elk calves.
- To identify the source and transmission dynamics of the infection within the facility.
Main Methods:
- Clinical case observation and post-mortem examinations.
- Bacteriological isolation and identification of Salmonella.
- Molecular typing techniques including phage typing, pulsed field gel electrophoresis, antibiotic sensitivity testing, and plasmid profiling.
Main Results:
- Salmonella typhimurium DT104 infection resulted in an 8/13 mortality rate in elk calves.
- Clinical signs included diarrhea, fever, lethargy, inappetence, and depression, with death typically within 72 hours.
- The outbreak strain was identified as the epidemic strain also prevalent in cattle, sheep, and humans, suggesting a common source or cross-species transmission.
Conclusions:
- Salmonella typhimurium DT104 poses a severe threat to captive elk calf health, leading to high mortality.
- The disease spread rapidly in the captive facility and was difficult to control, highlighting biosecurity challenges.
- Genetic analysis confirmed the strain's identity as the epidemic strain, emphasizing its zoonotic potential and broad host range.