Tuberculosis as a zoonosis from a veterinary perspective

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Zoonoses

Background:

• Tuberculosis is a major zoonotic disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis.
• These pathogens are highly pathogenic, infect numerous animal species, and pose a risk of human infection.
• Monkeys are particularly susceptible and act as significant disease spreaders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the significance of tuberculosis as a zoonotic disease.
• To discuss the role of various animal species, including primates and pets, in the transmission of tuberculosis.
• To highlight recent outbreaks and the potential for human infection.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of tuberculosis in animals and humans.
• Analysis of reported outbreaks in monkeys and other zoo animals.
• Case study of human-to-dog transmission.

Main Results:

• Recent outbreaks of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in monkeys led to human infections in Japan.
• Tuberculosis affects various zoo animals, including elephants.
• A case of Mycobacterium tuberculosis transmission from human to dog via close contact was documented.
• Japan has controlled Mycobacterium bovis infection, but it remains a concern globally.

Conclusions:

• Tuberculosis poses a continuous zoonotic threat, necessitating ongoing surveillance and control measures.
• The susceptibility of diverse animal species underscores the importance of interspecies disease management.
• Further attention is required globally to manage bovine tuberculosis and human Mycobacterium bovis infections.