zoonotic transmission

Wildlife Dermatophytoses in Central Italy (Umbria and Marche Regions): A Fifteen-Year Investigation (2010–2024)

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Researchers studied fungal skin infections in wild animals across two Italian regions over 15 years, finding that about 11% carried dermatophyte fungi. Grey squirrels were most commonly infected, and some of these fungi can spread to humans through contact. The study highlights how wild animals act as sentinels for emerging diseases and emphasizes the importance of protective equipment when handling wildlife.

Sporothrix is neglected among the neglected

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Sporotrichosis is a fungal infection caused by Sporothrix species that usually affects the skin but can spread to joints, lungs, and eyes. While traditionally spread through plant material during gardening, the disease has increasingly spread between cats and humans through bites and scratches, particularly in South America and other regions. The fungus is developing resistance to common antifungal drugs, and scientists worry climate change could expand where this disease occurs worldwide.

Wildlife Dermatophytoses in Central Italy (Umbria and Marche Regions): A Fifteen-Year Investigation (2010–2024)

mycolabadmin

Researchers in central Italy studied fungal skin infections in wild animals over 15 years to understand disease patterns and public health risks. They found that about 11% of wild animals tested positive for dermatophytes (skin fungi), with some species dangerous to humans. The most common fungi found were Paraphyton mirabile and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, which can spread to people through contact with infected animals. The study highlights the importance of monitoring wildlife health and using protective equipment when handling wild animals.

Targeted long-read sequencing analysis and antifungal susceptibility profiles of Sporothrix schenckii isolates from Thailand

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Researchers in Thailand studied a fungal infection called sporotrichosis by using advanced DNA sequencing technology to identify the exact species and understand how different strains are related to each other. They found that while current treatment options work, some strains are becoming resistant to the main drug used (itraconazole). The study shows that a newer, faster DNA sequencing method can be just as reliable as traditional methods for identifying these dangerous fungi and tracking how they spread between cats and humans.

Multilocus sequence typing of Candida albicans isolates from wild and farm animals from southern Italy

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Researchers in Italy studied a fungus called Candida albicans that can infect both humans and animals. They analyzed samples from chickens, wild boars, and lizards to understand how genetically similar these animal strains are to human infections. They found that animal strains are very similar to human strains, suggesting the fungus could be passed between animals and people. This research highlights the importance of monitoring fungal infections in animals to understand public health risks.

Dermatophytosis in a Chilean fox: first case of Nannizzia gypsea in Lycalopex griseus and the need for a one health approach

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Researchers reported the first case of a fungal skin infection caused by Nannizzia gypsea in a wild South American grey fox found near Santiago, Chile. The fox developed crusted and scaly lesions on its tail, which were successfully treated with topical antifungal cream. This discovery highlights how increasing contact between domestic pets, wild animals, and humans due to urbanization can spread fungal infections, emphasizing the need for integrated health approaches that consider human, animal, and environmental health together.

Multilocus sequence typing of Candida albicans isolates from wild and farm animals from southern Italy

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Researchers studied a fungal pathogen called Candida albicans found in farm and wild animals in Italy to understand how it spreads between animals and humans. They used genetic analysis to compare isolates from laying hens, wild boars, and lizards with samples from infected humans around the world. The results showed that animal isolates were genetically similar to human clinical samples, suggesting animals could serve as reservoirs for this infection. This research highlights the importance of monitoring fungal diseases in animal populations as part of understanding disease transmission between animals and people.

Disseminated sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis with testicular involvement

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This case report describes a rare fungal infection caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis in a 35-year-old man living with HIV/AIDS. The infection spread throughout his body, affecting his skin, lungs, brain, and testicles. Doctors initially thought the testicular involvement was cancer and removed the testicle, but lab tests confirmed it was a fungal infection. The patient was successfully treated with antifungal medications and remains disease-free one year later.

Antifungal susceptibility testing of Microsporum canis isolated from the skin of dermatologically healthy cats

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Researchers tested healthy cats in Chile and found that about 5% carried a fungus called Microsporum canis that can cause ringworm. This fungus was resistant to a common antifungal drug called fluconazole. Indoor cats were more likely to carry the fungus than outdoor cats. Because cats can spread this fungus to people, identifying carrier cats is important for preventing human infections.

Screening of yeasts in the oral microbiota of bats (Chiroptera) in Piauí, Brazil

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Researchers collected oral samples from 47 bats in Brazil and found that over 40% carried yeast species, including some dangerous types like Candida albicans that cause infections in humans. The study identified that bats living near human settlements may serve as reservoirs for these disease-causing fungi, especially during rainy seasons when conditions favor yeast growth. This discovery highlights the importance of monitoring wildlife for infectious diseases to prevent them from spreading to humans.

Research Keyword: zoonotic transmission