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Oral Transmission of Listeria monocytogenes in Mice via Ingestion of Contaminated Food
Published on: May 6, 2013
Listeria monocytogenes Infection in a Sugar Glider (Petaurus breviceps) - New Mexico, 2011
M Nichols1, N Takacs, J Ragsdale
1New Mexico Department of Health, Epidemiology and Response Division, Santa Fe, NM, USA.
Abstract:
Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive, facultative anaerobic, rod-shaped bacterium that can infect and cause disease in many species. In this case report, we describe a case of L. monocytogenes infection causing sepsis in a sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps). The sugar glider consumed a varied diet consisting of human food items, including cantaloupe. A nationwide outbreak of L. monocytogenes foodborne illness associated with cantaloupes occurred simultaneously with this incident case. In this case, the bacterial strains from the outbreak and glider were genetically distinct. Although rare, veterinarians should be aware of the emergence of foodborne pathogens' ability to infect exotic animals residing in domestic environments.
Insights
Listeria monocytogenes can cause sepsis in exotic pets like sugar gliders. While this case involved distinct bacterial strains, it highlights the risk of foodborne pathogens infecting domestic animals.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Microbiology
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium causing illness in various species.
- Exotic pets, such as sugar gliders, are increasingly common in domestic settings.
- Foodborne pathogens pose potential risks to animal health and public health.
Observation:
- A sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps) presented with sepsis caused by Listeria monocytogenes.
- The affected sugar glider consumed a diet including human food items, specifically cantaloupe.
- A concurrent nationwide outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes foodborne illness linked to cantaloupes was occurring.
Findings:
- The Listeria monocytogenes strain isolated from the sugar glider was genetically distinct from the outbreak strain.
- This suggests independent or non-cantaloupe-related transmission to the animal.
- Despite distinct strains, the case demonstrates Listeria monocytogenes infection in an exotic pet.
Implications:
- Veterinarians should consider Listeria monocytogenes in cases of sepsis in exotic animals, especially those with potential exposure to contaminated food.
- This case underscores the potential for foodborne pathogens to cross species barriers and infect exotic animals in domestic environments.
- Awareness of zoonotic potential and pathogen transmission routes is crucial for both animal and public health.
