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Analysis of 18FDG PET/CT Imaging as a Tool for Studying Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection and Treatment in Non-human Primates
Published on: September 5, 2017
Elephant-to-human transmission of tuberculosis, 2009
Rendi Murphree1, Jon V Warkentin, John R Dunn
1Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. zle9@cdc.gov
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|March 12, 2011
Summary
Tuberculosis transmission occurred at an elephant refuge, with increased risk for employees working near the infected elephant. Enhanced infection control and occupational health programs are crucial for preventing future outbreaks in the captive elephant industry.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Public Health
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Zoonotic Disease Research
Background:
- Reports of tuberculin skin test (TST) conversions in employees and Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolation from an elephant at a refuge in 2009 indicated a potential outbreak.
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) poses a zoonotic risk, necessitating investigation into transmission dynamics in captive settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the extent of M. tuberculosis transmission at the elephant refuge.
- To identify specific risk factors associated with TST conversion among employees.
- To inform strategies for preventing M. tuberculosis transmission in the captive elephant industry.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study was conducted among refuge employees.
- An onsite assessment was performed to evaluate potential exposure and infection control measures.
- Risk ratios and confidence intervals were calculated to identify significant risk factors.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in TST conversion risk was observed for elephant caregivers and administrative staff working in proximity to the infected elephant or connected offices (Risk Ratio 20.3).
- Indirect exposure to aerosolized M. tuberculosis and delayed or inadequate infection control practices were identified as likely contributors to transmission.
- The study highlights a substantial risk of M. tuberculosis transmission in this unique occupational setting.
Conclusions:
- M. tuberculosis transmission occurred among employees at the elephant refuge, linked to direct and indirect exposure.
- Improved infection control practices, increased awareness of M. tuberculosis in elephants, and dedicated occupational health programs are essential for mitigating transmission risks.
- Addressing these factors is critical for safeguarding worker health in the elephant care industry.
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