Bacterial Zoonoses
A bacterium is a member of a large group of unicellular microorganisms which have cell walls but lack organelles and an organised nucleus. The diseases caused by bacteria are known as bacterial diseases.
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Pasteurellosis
Pasteurellosis is a bacterial infection commonly affecting animals and is transmitted to human beings via bites and scratches. It is caused by the bacteria Pasteurella multocida. Pasteurella spp. have been reported to be one of the major floras present in the oral cavity of dogs and cats. An animal bite can inoculate this bacteria in different host species. The infection starts off as a local infection but can also progress to a systemic infection. Quite a few Pasteurella spp. are opportunistic pathogens. Pasteurellosis is a high impact disease in livestock according to WHO. The mortality due to this disease in humans is low mostly due to the prompt treatment of bite wounds.
Cats and dogs harbour this bacteria in their oral and nasal cavity. It is frequently transmitted after being bitten or scratched by infected dogs and cats.Infection may also occur after secondary contact with animal. Pasteurella multocida is carried by more than 90% healthy cats. Infection usually develops after 12-24 hours of being exposed to the bacteria.
In animals, the transmission occurs via direct contact with infectious secretions or through inhalation of aerosols.
In humans-
- Local infection can be established 3 hours after the bite or scratch of an animal.
- In 24 hours, the wound can become erythematous and painful. It may often become suppurative as well.
- Local abscess formation
- It can progress to a respiratory infection like pneumonia or pleural abscessation
- Systematic manifestation like bacterial peritonitis, septicaemia, abdominal abscessation may or may not happen.
In animals-
- A painful abscess at the site of infection
- These symptoms progress only if the infection site is not taken care of
Diagnosis is based on bacterial identification from the wound or the lesion.
If your pets have wounds, evaluate how deep or superficial they are. Use antibacterial ointments for superficial wounds. Get the wounds checked by a veterinarian to decide the further course of treatment. Maintaining sanitation and hygiene in humans and animals is the only way to prevent this disease. High risk people (diabetic, immunocompromised, have HIV) should touch animals with caution.