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Chlamydiae from Down Under: The Curious Cases of Chlamydial Infections in Australia
1Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs 4557, Australia.
Abstract:
In Australia, the most researched and perhaps the most successful chlamydial species are the human pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis, animal pathogens Chlamydia pecorum and Chlamydia psittaci. C. trachomatis remains the leading cause of sexually transmitted infections in Australians and trachoma in Australian Indigenous populations. C. pecorum is globally recognised as the infamous koala and widespread livestock pathogen, whilst the avian C. psittaci is emerging as a horse pathogen posing zoonotic risks to humans. Certainly not innocuous, the human infections with Chlamydia pneumoniae seem to be less prevalent that other human chlamydial pathogens (namely C. trachomatis). Interestingly, the complete host range for C. pecorum and C. psittaci remains unknown, and infections by other chlamydial organisms in Australian domesticated and wildlife animals are understudied. Considering that chlamydial organisms can be encountered by either host at the human/animal interface, I review the most recent findings of chlamydial organisms infecting Australians, domesticated animals and native wildlife. Furthermore, I also provide commentary from leading Australian Chlamydia experts on challenges and future directions in the Chlamydia research field.
Insights
This review highlights key Australian chlamydial pathogens, including Chlamydia trachomatis, Chlamydia pecorum, and Chlamydia psittaci, examining their impact on human and animal health. It underscores the need for further research into chlamydial infections at the human-animal interface.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Chlamydial infections pose significant threats to both human and animal health in Australia.
- Key species include Chlamydia trachomatis (human STD, trachoma), Chlamydia pecorum (koala, livestock), and Chlamydia psittaci (avian, emerging equine pathogen with zoonotic risk).
- Chlamydia pneumoniae infections are less prevalent in humans compared to C. trachomatis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on chlamydial infections in Australians, domesticated animals, and native wildlife.
- To explore the known and unknown host ranges of Chlamydia pecorum and Chlamydia psittaci.
- To discuss challenges and future research directions in Chlamydia studies, incorporating expert commentary.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent research on chlamydial organisms in Australia.
- Analysis of chlamydial species affecting humans, livestock, wildlife, and companion animals.
- Inclusion of expert opinions from leading Australian Chlamydia researchers.
Main Results:
- Chlamydia trachomatis is the primary cause of sexually transmitted infections and trachoma in Australia.
- Chlamydia pecorum is a significant pathogen in koalas and livestock.
- Chlamydia psittaci presents emerging zoonotic risks, particularly from equine infections.
Conclusions:
- Chlamydial infections represent a critical One Health issue in Australia, impacting public and animal health.
- Further research is essential to understand the full host range and transmission dynamics of various Chlamydia species.
- Addressing knowledge gaps and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration are crucial for future Chlamydia research and control efforts.
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