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, 03:40authored byNicola StephensNicola Stephens, Vogelnest, L, Lowbridge, C, Christensen, A, Marks, GB, Sintchenko, V, McAnualty, J
Mycobacterium 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 Infection
Volume
141
Issue
7
Pagination
1488-1497
ISSN
0950-2688
Department/School
Tasmanian School of Medicine
Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Place of publication
United Kingdom
Rights statement
Copyright 2013 Cambridge University Press
Repository Status
Restricted
Socio-economic Objectives
Disease distribution and transmission (incl. surveillance and response)