Part of the book: Salmonella
Among the transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids is now the rising concern within Europe. CWD will be outlined in this chapter gathering its epidemiology, transmission, diagnosis, genetics, and control. Prion diseases are fatal neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the accumulation of an abnormal isoform of the prion protein (PrPc), usually designated by PrPsc or prion. CWD is a prion disease of natural transmission affecting cervids detected mainly in North America. The first European case was detected in Norway, in 2016, in a wild reindeer; until April 2018, a total of 23 cases were described. The definite diagnosis is postmortem, performed in target areas of the brain and lymph nodes. Samples are first screened using a rapid test and, if positive, confirmed by immunohistochemistry and Western immunoblotting. It is not possible to establish a culling plan based on the genotype, once affected animals appear with all genotypes. However, some polymorphisms seem to result in longer incubation periods or confer a reduced risk. The control is not easy in captive cervids and even more in the wildlife; some recommendations have been proposed in order to understand the danger and impact of CWD on animal and public health.
Part of the book: Wildlife Population Monitoring
Biocides are a group of substances commonly used in food production settings to destroy or control a wide range of microorganisms, which can be present in food of animal origin, since contamination can occur in the several steps of the food production chains. In order to achieve the desired results, the users of biocides must first understand the diverse characteristics of such compounds, mainly the usage requirements, limitations, and the factors affecting the activity of biocides. Food-producing animals and their products, namely meat and eggs, represent a major source of non-typhoidal Salmonella for humans and are associated with foodborne outbreaks worldwide. The prevention of cross-contamination, which can occur in any step of the food production chain, is essential for the ultimate objective of producing safe food products. The correct use of biocides, along with good hygiene and manufacturing practices, is one of the pillars of Salmonella spp. control and should be implemented in all steps of the food production chain. The present chapter reviews the accumulated knowledge on the use of biocides to control non-typhoidal Salmonella, from a farm to fork standpoint, along with the possible impacts on human health arising from improper use.
Part of the book: Salmonella