Bartonella Species in Wild and Domestic Ruminants
Author Information
Author(s): Chao-chin Chang, Bruno B. Chomel, Rickie W. Kasten, Remy Heller, Katherine M. Kocan, Hiroshi Ueno, Kazuhiro Yamamoto, Vernon C. Bleich, Becky M. Pierce, Ben J. Gonzales, Pamela K. Swift, Walter M. Boyce, Spencer S. Jang, Henri-Jean Boulouis, Yves Piemont
Primary Institution: University of California, Davis
Hypothesis
Are elk, bighorn sheep, and domestic cattle infected with Bartonella and what are the molecular relationships between Bartonella isolated from these animals?
Conclusion
The study found that deer, elk, and domestic cattle are potential reservoirs of Bartonella species.
Supporting Evidence
- 49% of 128 cattle from California and Oklahoma were found to be infected with Bartonella.
- 90% of 42 mule deer from California were bacteremic.
- 15% of 100 elk from California and Oregon were infected.
- Significantly higher prevalence of Bartonella was found in beef cattle compared to dairy cattle.
- Geographic differences in prevalence suggest potential tick transmission.
Takeaway
This study shows that some animals like deer and cattle can carry germs called Bartonella, which might make people sick.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study comparing the prevalence of Bartonella infection in different herds.
Limitations
The study did not include all possible animal reservoirs and geographic locations.
Participant Demographics
The study included free-ranging mule deer, bighorn sheep, and domestic cattle from California and Oklahoma.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0002
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 2.9-8.8
Statistical Significance
p=0.0002
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