Selected emerging infectious diseases of squamata

Area of Science:

• Herpetology
• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Emerging infectious diseases pose significant threats to squamate reptile populations.
• Clinicians require updated information on novel pathogens affecting reptiles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an update on emerging infectious diseases in squamates reported in the last decade.
• To consolidate information on viral, bacterial, and parasitic diseases affecting reptiles.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of primary research published within the past 10 years.
• Synthesis of epidemiological data, clinical signs, pathology, diagnostics, and prognostics for emerging squamate diseases.

Main Results:

• Updates on adenovirus, iridovirus, rhabdovirus, arenavirus, and paramyxovirus in squamates.
• Review of a new bacterial disease, Devriesea agamarum, in Uromastyx species.
• Discussion of Chrysosporium ophiodiicola-associated mortality in snakes and emerging parasitic infections like Cryptosporidium and pentastomids.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians must stay informed about emerging squamate diseases for effective diagnosis and treatment.
• Continued surveillance and research are crucial for managing novel infectious agents in reptiles.