Salmonella Panama: genetic diversity of the isolates collected from human and non-human sources

Abstract INTRODUCTION Salmonella enterica serovar Panama belongs to the D1 serogroup and is frequently associated with nontyphoidal salmonellosis in humans. This study aimed to characterize isolates collected from Northeast Brazil by phenotypic and molecular methods. METHODS Forty four S. Panama strains were examined for antimicrobial susceptibility, virulence genes, and pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) types. RESULTS All strains were susceptible to antibiotics (except for streptomycin), presented classical virulence factors, and could be clustered into four groups and 18 pulsotypes. CONCLUSIONS This work calls for continuous surveillance for the emergence of antibiotic resistance and new clones in a geographical area.

Meningitis caused by Salmonella enterica serotype Panama in Brazil: first case reported

Abstract Salmonella infections usually occur as gastroenteritis that is generally self-limited. However, some serotypes of Salmonella can cause severe extra-intestinal infections, such as bacteremia and meningitis. Here, we report the first Salmonella Panama case of meningitis in 4-month-old male newborn in Brazil. The invasive strain isolated was susceptible to all antimicrobial agents tested. The genes agfA, fimA, invA, sfbA, phoP, and slyA were detected using polymerase chain reactions. These findings are relevant and physicians should be alert to the possibility of meningitis in newborns due to S. Panama, which can present a high rate of mortality or recurrence of infection.

Frequency of zoonotic bacteria among illegally traded wild birds in Rio de Janeiro

Abstract The illegal wildlife trade may increase the risk of infectious disease transmission, and it may not only cause disease outbreaks in humans but also threaten livestock, native wild populations, and ecosystems' health. Bird species may act as carriers in the transmission of enteric pathogens. However, epidemiological studies on zoonotic bacteria in wild birds are rare in Brazil. From March 2011 to March 2012, we investigated the frequency of Enterobacteriaceae in cloacal swab samples from 109 birds of the passerine and Psittacidae families. These birds were recovered from illegal trade in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and sent to a rehabilitation center. Gram-negative bacteria were isolated from 86 wild birds (78.9%). A mean (±SD) of 1.68 (±1.30) different bacterial species were isolated per bird, with a maximum of five bacterial species from three bird species. The most frequently isolated bacteria were Escherichia coli, followed by Enterobacter spp., Klebsiella pneumoniae and other enteric bacteria. Salmonella ser. Typhimurium was isolated from a Temminck's seedeater (Sporophila falcirostris), and two Salmonella ser. Panama were isolated from two specimens of chestnut-capped blackbird (Chrysomus ruficapillus). Of the 70 selected bacterial isolates, 60 exhibited antibiotic resistance. The resistance patterns varied from one to nine of the antibiotics tested. Resistance to ceftiofur was the most prevalent, followed by ampicillin and ceftriaxone. The dissemination potential of resistant strains in situations typically seen in the management of captive birds may become a problem for the conservation of natural bird populations and for public health.

Characterization of quinolone resistance in Salmonella spp. isolates from food products and human samples in Brazil

Abstract Non-typhoidal salmonellosis is an important zoonotic disease caused by Salmonella enterica. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance in Salmonella spp. and its association with fluoroquinolone susceptibility in Brazil. A total of 129 NTS isolates (samples from human origin, food from animal origin, environmental, and animal) grouped as from animal (n = 62) and human (n = 67) food were evaluated between 2009 and 2013. These isolates were investigated through serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and the presence of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes (qnr, aac(6')-Ib) and associated integron genes (integrase, and conserved integron region). Resistance to quinolones and/or fluoroquinolones, from first to third generations, was observed. Fifteen isolates were positive for the presence of qnr genes (8 qnrS, 6 qnrB, and 1 qnrD) and twenty three of aac(6')-Ib. The conserved integron region was detected in 67 isolates as variable regions, from ±600 to >1000 pb. The spread of NTS involving PMQR carriers is of serious concern and should be carefully monitored.

Occurrence of potentially pathogenic Vibrio in oysters (Crassostrea gigas) and waters from bivalve mollusk cultivations in the South Bay of Santa Catarina

Introduction This research aimed to identify and quantify potentially pathogenic Vibrio from different cultivations of bivalve shellfish in the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil, and water regions in the South Bay, as well as correlate the incidence of these microorganisms with the physicochemical parameters of marine waters. Methods Between October 2008 and March 2009, 60 oyster and seawater samples were collected from six regions of bivalve mollusk cultivation, and these samples were submitted for Vibrio counts. Results Twenty-nine (48.3%) oyster samples were revealed to be contaminated with one or more Vibrio species. The Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus counts in the samples ranged from < 0.5 log10 Most Probable Number (MPN) g–1 to 2.3 log10 MPN g–1 oyster and from < 0.5 log10 MPN g–1 to 2.1 log10 MPN g–1 oyster, respectively. Of the 60 seawater samples analyzed, 44 (73.3%) showed signs of contamination with one or more vibrio species. The counts of V. parahaemolyticus and V. vulnificus in the samples ranged from < 0.3 log10 MPN·100mL–1 to 1.7 log10MPN·100mL–1 seawater and from < 0.3 log10 MPN·100mL–1 to 2.0 log10 MPN·100mL–1 seawater, respectively. A positive correlation between V. vulnificus counts and the seawater temperature as well as a negative correlation between the V. parahaemolyticus counts and salinity were observed. Conclusions The results suggest the need to implement strategies to prevent vibrio diseases from being transmitted by the consumption of contaminated bivalve shellfish. .

Elimination of coliforms and Salmonella spp. in sheep meat by gamma irradiation treatment

This study aimed at evaluating the bacteriological effects of the treatment of sheep meat contaminated with total coliforms, coliforms at 45 °C and Salmonella spp. by using irradiation at doses of 3 kGy and 5 kGy. Thirty sheep meat samples were collected from animals located in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, and then grouped in three lots including 10 samples: non-irradiated (control); irradiated with 3 kGy; and irradiated with 5 kGy. Exposure to gamma radiation in a 137Cs source-driven irradiating facility was perfomed at the Nuclear Defense Section of the Brazilian Army Technological Center (CTEx) in Rio de Janeiro. The samples were kept under freezing temperature (-18 °C) until the analyses, which occurred in two and four months after irradiation. The results were interpreted by comparison with the standards of the current legislation and demonstrated that non-irradiated samples were outside the parameters established by law for all groups of bacteria studied. Gamma irradiation was effective in inactivating those microorganisms at both doses tested and the optimal dose was achieved at 3 kGy. The results have shown not only the need for sanitary conditions improvements in slaughter and processing of sheep meat but also the irradiation effectiveness to eliminate coliform bacteria and Salmonella spp.

Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella in chicken carcasses at retail in 15 Brazilian cities / Prevalencia y resistencia a los antimicrobianos de Salmonella en polloscongelados de venta al por menor en 15 ciudades del Brasil

Objetivo. Describir la prevalencia y la resistencia a los antibióticos de Salmonella spp. en canales de pollo congeladas de venta al por menor en 15 ciudades del Brasil. Métodos. Entre septiembre del 2004 y julio del 2006 se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo de los datos del Programa Nacional Brasileño de Vigilancia de la Prevalenciade la Resistencia Bacteriana en el Pollo (PREBAF). Durante el programa serecolectaron canales de pollo en 15 capitales estatales del Brasil, en las cinco regiones geográficas del país. Para aislar Salmonella spp. e identificar los serotipos, se usaron las técnicas convencionales. Para evaluar la resistencia frente a 18 antibióticos, se usó el método de la concentración inhibitoria mínima. Resultados. En las 2 679 canales de pollo examinadas, la prevalencia de Salmonella spp. fue de 2,7% (amplitud, 0,0%–8,9%). El 50,6% de las muestras positivas provinieron del estado de São Paulo. Se identificaron 18 serotipos. Los más frecuentes fueron Salmonella Enteritidis (48,8%), Salmonella Infantis (7,6%), Salmonella Typhimurium (7,2%) y Salmonella Heidelberg (6,4%). Las 250 cepas evaluadas fueron resistentes auno o más antibióticos, y 133 (53,2%) fueron multirresistentes (≥ 3 clases de antibióticos). Salmonella Heidelberg fue resistente a la ceftriaxona (75,0%) y al ceftiofur (43,8%). Conclusiones. La prevalencia de Salmonella spp. en este estudio fue relativamente baja. Sin embargo, hubo una proporción elevada de cepas multirresistentes, inclusivea las cefalosporinas de tercera generación usadas para tratar la salmonelosis invasora. Los resultados confirman la relevancia del programa PREBAF, el cual se recomienda mejorar, por ejemplo, mediante un análisis oportuno de los datos. También es necesario revisar los límites permitidos de Salmonella spp. en el pollo que se vende al por menor en el Brasil.

Objective. To describe the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella spp. in frozen chicken carcasses at retail from 15 Brazilian cities. Methods. A descriptive study of data from the Brazilian National Program for Monitoring the Prevalence of Bacterial Resistance in Chicken (PREBAF) was conducted from September 2004 to July 2006. The program collected chicken carcasses in 15 state capitals of Brazil inthe five geographic regions of the country. Standardized methodologies were used to isolate Salmonella spp. and identify serotypes. The minimal inhibitory concentration method wasused to test resistance to 18 antimicrobials. Results. In 2 679 carcasses examined, the prevalence of Salmonella spp. was 2.7% (range0.0%–8.9%). São Paulo State produced 50.6% of positive samples. Eighteen serotypes were identified. The most frequently occurring were Salmonella Enteritidis (48.8%), Salmonella Infantis (7.6%), Salmonella Typhimurium (7.2%), and Salmonella Heidelberg (6.4%). All 250 strains tested were resistant to one or more antibiotics, and 133 (53.2%) were multidrug resistant (≥ 3 classes). S. Heidelberg was resistant to ceftriaxone (75.0%) and to ceftiofur (43.8%).Conclusions. The prevalence of Salmonella spp. found in this study was relatively low. However, there were a high proportion of multidrug-resistant strains, including thirdgenerationcephalosporins used to treat invasive salmonellosis. The results confirm the relevance of the PREBAF program. It is recommended that PREBAF be improved, including a timely data analysis. A review of permitted limits for Salmonella spp. in retail chicken in Brazil is also needed.

Vibrios patogênicos isolados em mexilhões (Perna perna) cultivados em sistema longline na Baía de Ilha Grande, RJ / Pathogenic vibrios isolated from mussels (Perna perna) cultivated in longline system in the Baía de Ilha Grande, RJ

Avaliaram-se 200 unidades de mexilhões (Perna perna) cultivados em sistemas longline na Baía de Ilha Grande, a fim de avaliar a presença de Vibrio spp. As amostras foram analisadas e submetidas a enriquecimento em água peptonada alcalina adicionada de 1% de NaCl, incubadas a 37ºC por 24 horas. Em seguida, os cultivos foram semeados em Agar tiossulfato citrato bile sacarose e as colônias suspeitas foram submetidas à caracterização bioquímica. Vibrio alginolyticus, V. harveyi e V. cincinnatiensis representaram as principais espécies (>70%) isoladas dos mexilhões in natura.

Prevalence of R-type ACSSuT in strains of Salmonella serovar Typhimurium DT193 isolated from human infections in Brazil / Prevalencia de resistencia de tipo ACSSuT en cepas de Salmonella serovariedad Typhimurium DT193 aisladas a partir de infecciones humanas en el Brasil

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of resistance to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, streptomycin, sulphonamides, and tetracyclines (ACSSuT) in Salmonella serovar Typhimurium definitive [phage] type (DT) 193 strains isolated from human sources over the last four decades. METHODS: From 2008 to 2010, 553 DT193 isolates out of 810 human-origin Salmonella ser. Typhimurium phage-typed strains isolated from the 1970s through 2008 were selected and tested for ACSSuT resistance: 91 strains isolated during the 1970s, 65 from the 1980s, 70 from the 1990s, and 327 from 2000-2008. Resistance profiles were determined using the disk diffusion method. RESULTS: †An antimicrobial susceptibility assay indicated 20.9 percent, or 116, of all isolates tested were ACSSuT-resistant, 52.0 percent (287) were resistant to one or more drugs in the ACSSuT profile, and 27.1 percent (150) were nonresistant (susceptible to antimicrobials). Based on the assay, overall antimicrobial resistance was extremely high in the 1970s (affecting 99.0 percent of isolates from that period) and remained high during the 1980s, when 95.4 percent of isolates had some type of antimicrobial resistance and incidence of Salmonella ser. Typhimurium DT193 R-type ACSSuT increased to 73.8 percent. R-type ACSSuT dropped to 27.1 percent (19 isolates) during the 1990s, and to 5.2 percent (17) during 2000-2008, despite a substantial increase in the number of isolates tested (397 versus 204, 111, and 98, respectively, for the previous three decades). CONCLUSIONS: †Although prevalence of Salmonella ser. Typhimurium DT193 R-type ACSSuT in Brazil has decreased since the 1970s, ACSSuT resistance markers continue to circulate. Therefore, continuous surveillance should be conducted to evaluate the occurrence of Salmonella ser. Typhimurium DT193 and its antimicrobial resistance.

OBJETIVO: Determinar la prevalencia de resistencia a la ampicilina, el cloranfenicol, la estreptomicina, las sulfonamidas y las tetraciclinas (ACSSuT) en cepas de Salmonella serovariedad Typhimurium fagotipo definitivo (DT) 193 aisladas de fuentes de origen humano durante las cuatro últimas décadas. MÉTODOS: Entre el 2008 y el 2010 se seleccionaron 553 aislados de DT193 entre 810 cepas de Salmonella serovariedad Typhimurium fagotipificadas aisladas desde la década de 1970 hasta el 2008, y en ellos se analizó la resistencia a ACSSuT: se estudiaron 91 cepas aisladas durante la década de 1970, 65 aisladas durante la década de 1980, 70 aisladas durante la década de 1990, y 327 aisladas entre el 2000 y el 2008, respectivamente. Los perfiles de resistencia a los antibióticos se determinaron mediante el método de difusión en disco. RESULTADOS: El antibiograma indicó que 20,9 por ciento (116) de todos los aislados que se analizaron fueron resistentes a ACSSuT, 52,0 por ciento (287) fueron resistentes a uno o más antibióticos del grupo ACSSuT y 27,1 por ciento (150) no fueron resistentes (es decir, fueron sensibles a dichos antibióticos). Según el análisis, la resistencia general a los antibióticos fue muy alta en la década de 1970 (y comprendió a 99,0 por ciento de los aislados de ese período) y continuó siendo alta durante la década de 1980, cuando 95,4 por ciento de los aislados presentó algún tipo de resistencia a los antibióticos y la incidencia de Salmonella serovariedad Typhimurium DT193 con resistencia de tipo ACSSuT aumentó hasta 73,8 por ciento. La resistencia de tipo ACSSuT descendió a 27,1 por ciento (31 aislados) durante la década de 1990, y a 5,2 por ciento (17 aislados) entre el 2000 y el 2008, a pesar del aumento importante en el número de aislados que se evaluaron (397 frente a 204, 111 y 98 en las tres décadas anteriores, respectivamente). CONCLUSIONES: Aunque la prevalencia de Salmonella serovariedad Typhimurium DT193 con resistencia de tipo ACSSuT en el Brasil ha disminuido desde la década de 1970, los marcadores de resistencia a ACSSuT continúan en circulación. Por consiguiente, debe llevarse a cabo una vigilancia permanente para evaluar la aparición de infecciones por Salmonella serovariedad Typhimurium DT193 y su resistencia a los antibióticos.

Isolamento de Salmonella enterica em gambás (Didelphis aurita e Didelphis albiventris) do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil / Isolation of Salmonella enterica in opossum (Didelphis aurita and Didelphis albiventris) of the São Paulo State, Brazil

No Brasil, não há relato de estudos de Salmonella em gambás, sendo assim, este trabalho tem por objetivo determinar a frequência de isolamento de Salmonella enterica em gambás (D. aurita e D. albiventris) no Estado de São Paulo. No período de janeiro de 2005 a dezembro de 2006, foram necropsiados 106 D. aurita e 40 D. albiventris e colhidos fragmentos de intestinos delgado, grosso e suabe da cloaca. As amostras foram plaqueadas diretamente em ágar Mac Conkey, paralelamente suspendidas nos caldos Rappaport-Vassiliadis e Tetrationato e posteriormente plaqueados em ágar XLT4. As colônias sugestivas de Salmonella foram confirmadas através de provas bioquímicas e sorotipagem. Encontrou-se Salmonella enterica em 17,0 por cento (18/106) dos D. aurita. Destes, 50 por cento apresentaram positividade no intestino delgado (ID), 88,9 por cento no intestino grosso (IG) e 66,7 por cento na cloaca. Da espécie S. enterica, as subespécies encontradas foram: diarizonae (11,1 por cento) houtenae e enterica (5,5 por cento cada um); enquanto da subespécie S. enterica enterica os sorotipos foram Newport (83,3 por cento), Typhimurium e Cerro (5,5 por cento cada um). Nos D. albiventris, 17,5 por cento (7/40) eram positivos, sendo que se encontraram 42,8 por cento no ID, 85,7 por cento no IG e 71,4 por cento na cloaca. O sorotipo mais prevalente também foi Newport (71,4 por cento), seguido por Typhimurium, Bareilly e Thompson (14,3 por cento cada um). Através dos resultados obtidos neste estudo pode-se comprovar a presença de Salmonella enterica no trato intestinal de gambás no Brasil.

In Brazil there is not report of Salmonella in opossum, so then, the objective of this study is to determine the isolation frequency of Salmonella enterica in opossum in São Paulo State, Brazil. From January 2005 to December 2006, 106 D. aurita and 40 D. albiventris were necropsied and samples from small and large intestine and cloacal swab were collected. These samples were submitted to direct plating in Mac Conkey agar and parallel suspension in Rappaport-Vassiliadis and Tetrationate broths with posterior streaking in XLT4 agar. The characterization of the isolates was done through biochemical tests and serotyping. Salmonella enterica was found in 17.0 percent (18/106) of the D. aurita; 50 percent presented the bacteria in the small intestine (SI), 88.9 percent in the large intestine (LI) and 66.7 percent in the cloaca. Of the S. enterica were found the subspecies: diarizonae (11.1 percent), enterica and houtenae (5.5 percent each); and the serotypes of the S. enterica enterica were Newport (83.3 percent), Typhimurium and Cerro (5.5 percent each). In the D. albiventris 17.5 percent (7/40) were positive; 42.8 percent in the SI, 85.7 percent in the LI and 71.4 percent in the cloaca. Newport (71.4 percent) was also the most frequent serotype and the second were Typhimurium, Bareilly and Thompson (14.3 percent each). The presence of Salmonella enterica in the intestines of opossums in Brazil was proved.

Characterization of aeromonas species isolated from an estuarine environment

Thirty water samples were collected, at two week intervals, from the estuary of the River Cocó. The aim was to characterize the presence, distribution and types of Aeromonas spp, in the estuary of the River Cocó, Ceara, Brazil (03º46'28.83''S e 38º26'36.52''S). Aeromonas were identified in 19 (63 percent) samples analyzed by plating and CFU counts. Presence/absence tests were positive for 11 (37 percent) of the samples resulting in the detection of Aeromonas in a total of 23 (77 percent) of samples. CFU counts varied from < 10 to 1.4 x 10(4) CFU mL-1 . From the isolated strains seven species of Aeromonas were identified: A. caviae (29/69), A. veronii bv. sobria (13/69), A. veronii bv. veronii (8/69), A. trota (6/69), A. media (5/69), A. sobria (4/69) and A. hydrophila and Aeromonas sp. (2/69). Of the 38 strains tested, 23 (60 percent) showed resistance to at least one of the eight antimicrobials. Multiple resistance to antibiotics was observed in A. caviae, A. media, A. sóbria and A. veronii bv. sobria. Aeromonas caviae showed the highest multiple resistance, being resistant to four antibiotics. The presence of those microorganisms may contribute to the occurrence of gastroenteritis, mainly in children, since they are considered opportunists.

Raw oysters can be a risk for infections

The aims of this study were to count and identify sucrose positive and negative vibrios isolated from cultivated Crassostrea rhizophorae oysters during their growing cycle. Every month for 12 months, 10 to 18 oysters were collected for study. Collections occurred at the Center for Studies of Coastal Aquaculture (CSCA), which is associated with the Institute of Marine Science, Labomar, located in Euzebio, Ceará, Brazil. Approximately 150 oysters and their intervalvular liquor were studied. Vibrio Standard Plates Counts (SPC) from oyster meat and their intervalvular liquor varied from 25 to 59,000,000 CFU/g. For most of the 12 months of the oysters' life, it was possible to identify Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Vibrio carchariae was identified in four collections. Among other isolated species, the most important, considering public health risks, was V. vulnificus, although only one strain was confirmed. We concluded that retail purchased oysters should never be eaten raw or undercooked because many species of the genus Vibrio are known to be pathogenic to humans and live naturally on and in shellfish throughout their life cycle.

Avaliação epidemiológica de surtos de salmonelose ocorridos no período de 1999 a 2008 no Estado do Paraná, Brasil / Epidemiological data of salmonellosis outbreaks occured between 1999 and 2008 in Parana State, Brazil

No Paraná, são poucas as informações sobre a prevalência dos sorovares e fagotipos de Salmonella envolvidos em surtos. Este trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de conhecer o perfil epidemiológico dos surtos de salmonelose notificados no Estado do Paraná entre janeiro de 1999 e dezembro de 2008. Neste período ocorreram 286 surtos nos quais 5.641 pessoas foram expostas, 2.027 (35,9%) manifestaram sintomas da doença e 881 (16,3%) foram hospitalizadas. Cinquenta e dois municípios do Paraná (13,0%) notificaram surtos de salmonelose. Alimentos à base de ovos, carnes e derivados e produtos classificados como alimentos variados foram, respectivamente, associados a 45,0; 34,8 e 20,2% dos surtos. O sorovar prevalente foi Enteritidis, encontrado em 87,8% das cepas isoladas de pacientes e em 80,6% das cepas provenientes dos alimentos envolvidos nos surtos. Salmonella Enteritidis PT4 foi o fagotipo predominante, porém foi observada maior prevalência de PT9 a partir de 2003. Do total de surtos analisados, 49,7% estiveram associados a reuniões familiares. Esse fato sugere que as ações da Vigilância Sanitária devem assumir um caráter educativo, tanto para trabalhadores de estabelecimentos comerciais quanto para manipuladores domésticos.

Epidemiological data of foodborne diseases in Brazil are scarce. In Paraná State, there is little information on the prevalence of Salmonella serovars and fagotypes involved in outbreaks. The aim of this study was to evaluate epidemiological data of salmonellosis outbreaks notified in Paraná State between January 1999 and December 2008. During the study period, 286 Salmonella outbreaks occurred and a total of 5,641 people were exposed, 2,027 (35.9%) became ill, and 881 (16.3%) were hospitalized. Fifty-two cities (13.0%) in Paraná notified Salmonella outbreaks. Eggs and egg products, meat and meat products and other foods were, respectively, associated with 45.0, 34.8 and 20.2% of the notified outbreaks. Serovar Enteritidis was prevalent and identified in 87.8% of the strains isolated from patients and in 80.6% of the strains isolated from food involved in outbreaks. Salmonella Enteritidis PT4 was the prevalent phagotype. However, a prevalence of PT9 occurred after 2003. Of the total number of outbreaks analyzed, 49.7% occurred in residences. This result indicates that educational actions of the State Food Safety and Inspection Service should be for both commercial and domestic food handlers.

Plesiomonasshigelloides and Aeromonadaceae family pathogens isolated from marine mammals of Southern and Southeastern Brazilian coast / Plesiomonasshigelloides e patógenos da família Aeromonadaceae isolados de mamíferos marinhos da costa sul e sudeste do Brasil

The aquatic environment is the habitat of many microorganisms, including Plesiomonasshigelloides and Aeromonas species which are pathogenic to human and animals. In the present investigation, we evaluated the occurrence of these pathogens from marine mammals beached or accidentally captured by fishing net in southeastern (RJ) and southern (RS) coastal Brazilian regions. A total of 198 swabs from 27 specimens of marine mammals, including 11 different species, were collected by DEENSP and GEMARS-CECLIMAR/UFRGS Institutes and sent to LRNCEB/IOC/FIOCRUZ. The samples were enriched in Alkaline Peptone Water (APW) added with 1 percent of sodium chloride (NaCl), APW plus 3 percent NaCl and incubated at 37ºC for 18-24 hours. Following, samples were streaked onto Pseudomonas-Aeromonas Selective Agar Base (GSP Agar) and suspected colonies were biochemically characterized. The results revealed 114 strains, including ten Aeromonas species and P.shigelloides. The main pathogens isolated were A.veronii biogroup veronii (19.3 percent), A. caviae (12.3 percent), A. hydrophila (9.6 percent) and P.shigelloides (7 percent). The pathogens were isolated in both coastal and offshore marine mammals. These data point the importance of epidemiological surveillance and microbiological monitoring and reinforce the need to implement environmental protection programs, especially related to endangered cetacean species.

O ambiente aquático é o habitat de vários microrganismos, incluindo Plesiomonasshigelloides e espécies de Aeromonas, os quais são patogênicos para o homem e os animais. Na presente investigação, foi avaliada a ocorrência destes patógenos a partir de swabs coletados de mamíferos marinhos encalhados ou capturados acidentalmente em redes de pesca nas regiões costeiras do sudeste (RJ) e sul (RS) do Brasil. O total de 198 swabs de 27 espécimes de mamíferos marinhos, incluindo 11 espécies distintas, foi coletado por profissionais dos institutos DEENSP, GEMARS-CECLIMAR/UFRGS e enviado ao LRNCEB/IOC/FIOCRUZ. Em seguida, as amostras foram submetidas a enriquecimento em Água Peptonada Alcalina (APA) adicionada de 1 por cento de cloreto de sódio (NaCl) e APA com 3 por cento de NaCl (37ºC/18-24 h). Posteriormente, as amostras foram semeadas em meio Agar Seletivo para Pseudomonas-Aeromonas (Agar GSP) e as colônias suspeitas submetidas à caracterização bioquímica. Um total de 114 cepas foram identificadas, incluindo dez espécies de Aeromonas e P.shigelloides. Os principais patógenos isolados foram A.veronii biogrupo veronii (19,3 por cento), A. caviae (12,2 por cento), A. hydrophila (9,6 por cento) e Plesiomonasshigelloides (7 por cento). Os patógenos foram encontrados tanto em espécies de mamíferos marinhos costeiros como oceânicos. Esses dados apontam para a importância da vigilância epidemiológica e monitoramento microbiológico, além de reforçar a necessidade de implantação de programas de proteção ambiental, particularmente relacionados aos mamíferos marinhos ameaçados de extinção.

Enzymatic characterization of Vibrio alginolyticus strains isolated from bivalves harvested at Venice Lagoon (Italy) and Guanabara Bay (Brazil) / Caracterização enzimática de cepas de Vibrio alginolyticus isoladas de bivalves coletados na Lagoa de Veneza (Itália) e Baía de Guanabara (Brasil)

The aquatic ecosystem is the natural habitat of microorganisms including Vibrio and Aeromonas genus which are pathogenic to human and animals. In the present investigation the frequency of these bacteria and the enzymatic characteristics of 34 Vibrio alginolyticus strains isolated from bivalves harvested in Venice Lagoon (Italy) and Guanabara Bay (Brazil) were carried out from November 2003 to February 2004. The mussels' samples were submitted to enrichment in Alkaline Peptone Water (APW) added with 1 percent of sodium chloride (NaCl) and APW plus 3 percent NaCl incubated at 37 ºC for 18-24h. Following the samples were streaked onto TCBS Agar (Thiossulfate Citrate Bile Sucrose Agar) and the suspected colonies were submitted to biochemical characterization. Also, the Vibrio alginolyticus strains were evaluated to collagenase, elastase and chondroitinase production. The results showed the isolation of 127 microorganisms distributed as follows: 105 Vibrio strains such as V. alginolyticus (32.4 percent), V. harveyi (19 percent) and V. parahaemolyticus (7.6 percent), 20 Aeromonas strains and two Plesiomonas shigelloides were the main pathogens isolated. We observed the production of the three enzymes from V. alginolyticus strains considered as the main virulence factors of the bacteria, especially in cases of human dermatological infection.

O ecossistema aquático é o habitat natural de microrganismos incluindo aqueles dos gêneros Vibrio e Aeromonas os quais são patogênicos para o homem e animais. Na presente investigação foi avaliada a freqüência destas bactérias e a característica enzimática de 34 cepas de Vibrio alginolyticus isoladas de bivalves coletados na Lagoa de Venice (Itália) e Baía de Guanabara (Brasil) durante o período de Novembro-2003 a Fevereiro-2004. As amostras de mexilhões foram submetidas a enriquecimento em Água Peptonada Alcalina (APA) adicionada de 1 por cento de Cloreto de Sódio (NaCl) e APA com 3 por cento de NaCl (37 ºC/18-24h). Em seguida as amostras foram semeadas em Agar TCBS (Agar Tiossulfato Citrato Bile Sacarose) e as colônias suspeitas foram submetidas à caracterização bioquímica. As cepas de Vibrio alginolyticus foram avaliadas quanto à produção das enzimas colagenase, elastase e condroitinase. Os resultados demonstraram o isolamento de 127 microrganismos assim distribuídos: 105 cepas de Vibrio das quais V. alginolyticus (32,4 por cento), V. harveyi (19 por cento) e V. parahaemolyticus (7,6 por cento), 20 cepas de Aeromonas e 2 Plesiomonas shigelloides foram os principais patógenos isolados. Observou-se a produção das três enzimas a partir de V. alginolyticus, consideradas principais fatores de virulência da bactéria, em especial em casos de infecção dermatológica humana.

Caracterização de Aeromonas spp isoladas de neonatos hospitalizados / Characterization of Aeromonas spp isolates from newborns hospitalized

Aeromonas spp é reconhecida como patogênica para o homem após o consumo de água e alimentos contaminados. Na presente investigação, foram avaliadas 2.323 amostras de swabs retais de neonatos hospitalizados no Rio de Janeiro objetivando o isolamento de Aeromonas. As amostras foram coletadas e enviadas ao Laboratório de Referência Nacional de Cólera e outras enteroinfecções bacterianas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Os swabs foram submetidos ao enriquecimento em água peptonada alcalina adicionada de 1 por cento de cloreto de sódio (NaCl) e água peptonada alcalina adicionada de 3 por cento de NaCl (37ºC/18-24h) e semeadas em agar seletivo para Pseudomonas aeromonas (Agar GSP). Foram isoladas 56 cepas de Aeromonas assim distribuídas: Aeromonas caviae (42,8 por cento), Aeromonas media (25 por cento), Aeromonas veronii biogrupo sobria (10,7 por cento), Aeromonas hydrophila (9 por cento), Aeromonas veronii biogrupo veronii (5,3 por cento), Aeromonas sobria (1,8 por cento), Aeromonas jandaei (1,8 por cento), Aeromonas schubertii (1,8 por cento) e Aeromonas sp (1,8 por cento). Foi observada resistência a uma ou mais drogas antimicrobianas em 26,8 por cento das cepas. Considerando a relevância de Aeromonas torna-se urgente alertar sobre sua importância para o controle de infecções hospitalares.

Aeromonas spp is recognized as pathogenic to humans after consumption of contaminated water and food. In the present investigation, 2,323 rectal swab samples from newborns hospitalized in Rio de Janeiro were evaluated with a view to isolating Aeromonas. The samples were collected and sent to the national reference laboratory for cholera and other bacterial intestinal infections, at the Oswaldo Cruz Institute of the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation. The swabs were subjected to enrichment in alkaline peptonated water with the addition of 1 percent sodium chloride (NaCl) and alkaline peptonated water plus 3 percent NaCl (37°C/18-24h) and were streaked onto agar that was selective for Pseudomonas-Aeromonas (GSP Agar). Fifty-six Aeromonas strains were isolated, distributed as follows: Aeromonas caviae (42.8 percent), Aeromonas media (25 percent), Aeromonas veronii biogroup sobria (10.7 percent), Aeromonas hydrophila (9 percent), Aeromonas veronii biogroup veronii (5.3 percent), Aeromonas sobria (1.8 percent), Aeromonas jandaei (1.8 percent), Aeromonas schubertii (1.8 percent) and Aeromonas sp (1.8 percent). Resistance to one or more antimicrobial drugs was observed in 26.8 percent of the strains. Considering the importance of Aeromonas, there is an urgent need to warn about this in relation to nosocomial infection control.

Salmonella Hadar phage types isolated from different sources of foodchain in Brazil

The gastroenteritis incidence caused by Salmonella Hadar has increased over the last decades worldwide. The uncontrolled use of antimicrobials for treating human patients and veterinary field contributes to increase the multidrug resistance of this serovar. In the present investigation, a total of 179 S. Hadar isolates from different sources of foodchain in Brazil were phage typed and analyzed for their antimicrobial resistance profile. The main S. Hadar phage types isolated were PT 38, PT 39, PT 40, PT 11, PT 34, PT 1 and PT 22. Others phage types as PT 13, PT 19, PT 21, PT 23, PT 31, PT 33 and PT 37 were obtained in low percentages. A total of 35,7 percent S. Hadar strains were resistant to two or more antimicrobials drugs. Furthermore, no resistance to third generation cephalosporin or ciprofloxacin was identified in these strains. Those results appoint to S. Hadar phage types circulating among animals, food and humans, as well as the increasing of multidrug resistance. The surveillance and monitoring of S. Hadar strains based on phage typing and antimicrobial resistance profile are useful for detecting outbreaks, identifying sources of infection and implementing prevention and control measures of salmonellosis.

A incidência de gastrenterite causada por Salmonella Hadar tem aumentado ao longo dos anos em todo o mundo. O uso indiscriminado de antimicrobianos na clínica humana e veterinária tem contribuído para o aumento da multiresistência deste sorovar. No presente estudo, 179 cepas de S. Hadar isoladas de diferentes fontes da cadeia alimentar no Brasil foram fagotipadas e analisadas quanto ao perfil de resistência antimicrobiana. Os principais fagotipos de S. Hadar isolados foram PT 38, PT 39, PT 40, PT 11, PT 34, PT 1 e PT 22. Outros fagotipos como PT 13, PT 19, PT 21, PT 23, PT 31, PT 33 e PT 37 foram obtidos em menores percentagens. Um total de 35,7 por cento das cepas avaliadas foi resistente a dois ou mais antimicrobianos. Por outro lado, não foi observada resistência a cefalosporinas de terceira geração ou ciprofloxacina. Esses resultados apontam para a circulação de fagotipos de S. Hadar entre animais, alimentos e seres humanos, bem como o aumento da multiresistência antimicrobiana. O monitoramento de cepas de S. Hadar baseado na fagotipagem e no padrão de resistência aos antimicrobianos são ferramentas úteis na detecção de surtos, identificação das fontes de infecção, além de auxiliar na implantação de programas de controle e prevenção de salmoneloses.

Isolamento de Vibrio spp. em mexilhões (Perna perna) coletados na região de Ponta de Itaipu, Niterói, RJ / Isolation of Vibrio spp. in bivalvia (Perna perna) collected in the region of Ponta de Itaipu, Niterói, RJ

O ecossistema marinho representa o habitat natural de diversas bactérias do gênero Vibrio, dentre as quais algumas com relevante potencial patogênico para o homem e animais. Devido ao crescente consumo de moluscos bivalves nas cidades litorâneas, foram avaliadas 15 amostras de mexilhões (Perna perna) coletados na região de Itaipu, Niterói, RJ, a fim de investigar a presença de Vibrio spp. As amostras de mexilhões foram submetidas a enriquecimento em Água Peptonada Alcalina (APA) adicionada de 1 por cento de NaCl (Cloreto de Sódio) e APA adicionada de 3 por cento NaCl, incubadas a 37°C por 24 horas. Em seguida, estes foram semeados em Agar Tiossulfato Citrato Bile Sacarose (TCBS) e as colônias suspeitas submetidas à caracterização bioquímica. Os resultados obtidos na presente investigação apontaram a presença das espécies V. harveyi, V. alginolyticus, V. carchariae e V. parahaemolyticus, cuja importância associa-se ao risco de infecções após o consumo de mexilhões sem cozimento ou parcialmente cozidos, o que aumenta sua relevância para a Saúde Pública, particularmente em indivíduos portadores de doenças crônico-degenerativas.

Phage typing and Multidrug resistance profile in S. Typhimurium isolated from different sources in Brazil from 1999 to 2004

Salmonella Typhimurium has become a widespread cause of salmonellosis among humans and animals worldwide. In Brazil, Salmonella Typhimurium (STM) is one of the most prevalent serovars isolated from food for human consumption. The uncontrolled sale and use of antimicrobials in agriculture and for treating human patients contributes to increase multidrug resistance of this serovar. In the present study, a total of 278 STM isolates from different sources and regions of Brazil over the period 1999 to 2004 were phage typed and analyzed for their antimicrobial resistance profile at Laboratory of Enterobacteria, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ. The main STM phage types isolated were DT 193 (64.3 percent), DT 19 (17.4 percent) and DT 18 (4 percent). Others phage types as DT 10 (2 percent), DT 27 (3.24 percent), DT 13 (0.36 percent), DT 22 (0.36 percent), DT 28 (0.36 percent), DT 29 (0.36 percent) and DT 149 (0.36 percent) were obtained in low percentages. A total of 54 percent STM strains were resistant to three or more antimicrobial classes, while no resistance to third generation cephalosporin or ciprofloxacin was identified in these strains. Those results show the STM phage types circulating among animals, food for human consumption and humans in Brazil as well as the increasing of multidrug resistance. The surveillance of STM strains based on phage typing and antimicrobial resistance profile are useful for detecting outbreaks, identifying sources of infection and implementing prevention and control measures.

Salmonella Typhimurium é considerada uma das principais bactérias causadoras de salmonelose nos animais e no homem em todo o mundo. No Brasil, Salmonella Typhimurium é um dos mais prevalentes sorovares isolados de alimentos para consumo humano. O uso indiscriminado de antibióticos em produtos agrícolas e no tratamento de pacientes humanos tem contribuído para aumentar a multirresistência desse sorovar a diversos antimicrobianos. No presente estudo, 278 cepas de STM foram selecionadas de diferentes fontes e regiões do Brasil, no período de 1999 a 2004 e realizadas a fagotipagem e análise do perfil de resistência antimicrobiana no Laboratório de Enterobactérias, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ. Os principais fagotipos isolados foram DT 193 (64,3 por cento), DT 19 (17,4 por cento) e DT 18 (4 por cento). Os fagotipos DT 10 (2 por cento), DT 27 (3,24 por cento), DT 13 (0,36 por cento), DT 22 (0,36 por cento), DT 28 (0,36 por cento), DT 29 (0,36 por cento) e DT 149 (0,36 por cento) foram isolados em menores percentuais. Um total de 54 por cento das cepas de STM foi resistente a três ou mais classes de antimicrobianos e não foi observada resistência a cefalosporinas de terceira geração ou ciprofloxacina. Esses resultados indicam os principais lisotipos de Salmonella Typhimurium circulantes entre os animais, alimentos de consumo humano e seres humanos no Brasil, bem como o aumento da multirresistência antimicrobiana. O monitoramento de cepas de Salmonella Typhimurium baseado na fagotipagem e no padrão de resistência antimicrobiana são ferramentas úteis para detectar surtos, identificar a fonte de infecção e implementar programas de prevenção e controle de salmonelose.