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Control of Shigella flexneri in Celebes black macaques (Macaca nigra)
Abstract:
Stool specimens collected systematically from a group of Celebes black macaques (Macaca nigra) with a high incidence of diarrhea were examined microbiologically. Numerous isolates of Shigella flexneri, Campylobacter jejuni and pathogenic Escherichia coli were recovered. Previous parasitology reports had revealed that the majority of the animals had Balantidium coli. Subsequently, the group was treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, erythromycin and tetracycline. After treatment, Shigella flexneri was not detected in the stool of any animal for 1 year, and the clinical condition of the group was improved. Reduced recovery rates were obtained with other enteric pathogens.
Insights
Microbiological examination of Celebes black macaques revealed Shigella flexneri, Campylobacter jejuni, and pathogenic E. coli. Antibiotic treatment successfully eradicated Shigella flexneri, improving overall health.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Primate Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Celebes black macaques (Macaca nigra) exhibited a high incidence of diarrhea.
- Microbiological analysis identified enteric pathogens including Shigella flexneri, Campylobacter jejuni, and pathogenic Escherichia coli.
- Balantidium coli was also prevalent in the macaque population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microbiological causes of diarrhea in Celebes black macaques.
- To evaluate the efficacy of a multi-drug antibiotic regimen in treating enteric infections in this primate group.
Main Methods:
- Systematic collection and microbiological examination of stool specimens.
- Treatment of infected macaques with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, erythromycin, and tetracycline.
- Post-treatment monitoring for the presence of enteric pathogens.
Main Results:
- Shigella flexneri was completely eradicated from the macaques' stool for one year following antibiotic treatment.
- A significant improvement in the clinical condition of the macaque group was observed.
- Reduced recovery rates of other enteric pathogens were noted after treatment.
Conclusions:
- Antibiotic therapy, specifically trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, erythromycin, and tetracycline, is effective in clearing Shigella flexneri infections in Celebes black macaques.
- Treatment led to improved health outcomes and reduced pathogen load in the studied primate group.
- This study highlights the potential for targeted antimicrobial interventions in managing enteric diseases in non-human primates.