RVA in Pet, Sheltered, and Stray Dogs and Cats in Brazil

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Zoonotic Disease Epidemiology
• Companion Animal Health

Background:

• Rotaviruses species A (RVA) are a significant cause of diarrhea in humans and animals.
• The epidemiology of RVA in pet animal populations, particularly dogs and cats, remains largely uncharacterized.
• Understanding RVA prevalence in companion animals is crucial due to their potential role in zoonotic transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and epidemiology of Rotavirus species A (RVA) in domestic dogs and cats in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
• To assess the potential for RVA transmission between pet animals and humans.

Main Methods:

• Fecal samples were collected from 308 pet, sheltered, and stray dogs and cats in two municipalities.
• Rotavirus species A (RVA) detection was performed using molecular diagnostic methods.

Main Results:

• RVA was detected in 38 out of 308 (12.3%) fecal samples.
• The findings indicate a notable prevalence of RVA in both canine and feline populations.
• The study identified RVA in various categories of pet animals, including pets, strays, and sheltered animals.

Conclusions:

• Rotaviruses species A are common pathogens in Brazilian dog and cat populations.
• The presence of RVA in companion animals underscores the importance of enhanced surveillance for common pathogens.
• Increased awareness and monitoring are necessary to address the potential for interspecies transmission of RVA from pets.