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Transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from an Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) to a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) and humans in an Australian zoo
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-20, 03:40 authored by Nicola StephensNicola Stephens, Vogelnest, L, Lowbridge, C, Christensen, A, Marks, GB, Sintchenko, V, McAnualty, JMycobacterium tuberculosis is primarily a pathogen of humans. Infections have been reported in animal species and it is emerging as a significant disease of elephants in the care of humans.With the close association between humans and animals, transmission can occur. In November 2010, a clinically healthy Asian elephant in an Australian zoo was found to be shedding M. tuberculosis; in September 2011, a sick chimpanzee at the same zoo was diagnosed with tuberculosis caused by an indistinguishable strain of M. tuberculosis. Investigations included staff and animal screening. Four staff had tuberculin skin test conversions associated with spending at least 10 hours within the elephant enclosure; none had disease. Six chimpanzees had suspected infection. A pathway of transmission between the animals could not be confirmed. Tuberculosis in an elephant can be transmissible to people in close contact and to other animals more remotely. The mechanism for transmission from elephants requires further investigation.
History
Publication title
Epidemiology and InfectionVolume
141Issue
7Pagination
1488-1497ISSN
0950-2688Department/School
Tasmanian School of MedicinePublisher
Cambridge University PressPlace of publication
United KingdomRights statement
Copyright 2013 Cambridge University PressRepository Status
- Restricted