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Prevalence of microorganisms in dead mink kits from Aleutian-disease-infected and non-infected farms
1Cátedra de Microbiología-CIC, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Argentina.
Abstract:
Bacterial and fungi were isolated from different tissues (brain, liver, heart) taken from 81 dead newborn mink originating from Aleutian disease (AD) infected and AD-non-infected farms. Of the 123 isolates obtained, 96% were bacterial isolates (predominantly Gram-negative) and 4% were fungi. The prevalence of microorganisms appeared less common in kits from AD-non-infected farms (55%) than from AD-infected farms (73%), although the difference was not significant. The liver was the most highly infected site in both groups and generally was only infected by one microorganism species. Proteus spp (23%), Escherichia coli (16%), Staphylococcus aureus (11%) and Enterobacter cloacae (9%) were the most frequently isolated germs. These findings are similar to those of other studies but the role of these microorganisms as specific pathogens or secondary invaders remains controversial.
Insights
Microorganisms were identified in dead newborn mink kits from farms with and without Aleutian disease (AD). Bacterial infections, particularly in the liver, were common, but their role as primary pathogens is unclear.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Microbiology
- Animal Health
Background:
- Aleutian disease (AD) is a significant concern in mink farming.
- Understanding secondary infections in neonates is crucial for disease management.
- Previous studies suggest microbial involvement in mink kit mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and quantify bacterial and fungal isolates from dead newborn mink.
- To compare microbial prevalence in mink kits from AD-infected versus AD-non-infected farms.
- To investigate the primary sites of infection and common microbial species.
Main Methods:
- Necropsy of 81 dead newborn mink from AD-infected and AD-non-infected farms.
- Isolation and identification of bacteria and fungi from brain, liver, and heart tissues.
- Statistical comparison of microbial prevalence between farm groups.
Main Results:
- 123 isolates were obtained; 96% were bacterial (predominantly Gram-negative) and 4% were fungi.
- Microbial prevalence was higher in kits from AD-infected farms (73%) vs. AD-non-infected farms (55%), though not statistically significant.
- The liver was the most frequently infected organ, often with a single species. Proteus spp., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterobacter cloacae were most common.
Conclusions:
- Bacterial and fungal infections are prevalent in dead newborn mink kits.
- The liver is a common site for infection, frequently by a single microbial species.
- The etiological role of these common microorganisms as primary pathogens or secondary invaders in mink kit mortality requires further investigation.
