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Opossums as a reservoir for Salmonellae
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|October 1, 1975
Summary
Opossums carry multiple Salmonella serotypes, acting as reservoirs for wildlife salmonellosis. This study found Salmonella in both healthy and sick opossums, indicating their role in disease spread.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Wildlife Disease Ecology
Background:
- Salmonella infections can affect wildlife populations.
- The role of opossums in Salmonella epidemiology is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and types of Salmonella in opossums.
- To determine if opossums act as reservoirs for Salmonella.
Main Methods:
- Rectal swabs and tissues from opossums were cultured for Salmonella.
- Six Salmonella serotypes were identified in both healthy and diseased animals.
- Salmonella isolates were analyzed from feces, spleen, liver, kidneys, and heart blood.
Main Results:
- Salmonella was detected in 70% of incoming opossums and 60% of isolated opossums.
- 81% of diseased opossums were positive for Salmonella at necropsy.
- Different Salmonella serogroups were found in visceral organs versus feces, suggesting distinct infection patterns.
Conclusions:
- Opossums harbor various Salmonella serotypes, serving as a reservoir.
- Opossums likely play a significant role in the epizootiology of wildlife salmonellosis.