Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Gateway

Low transmission potential of H7N9

Mathematical models suggest the novel influenza A/H7N9 virus has low transmission potential in China, but continued monitoring is warranted as changing seasonal factors and relaxed interventional measures might promote its spread.

Detecting H7 AIVs

Development of an H7 avian influenza virus (AIV) dual function ELISA, using monoclonal antibodies raised against influenza hemagglutinin, allows sensitive and specific diagnosis of these viruses.

Tetracycline resistance in the African camel

Anne Fischer and colleagues analysed Streptococcus agalactiae populations in the African camel and found widespread tetracycline resistance, associated with acquisition of the gene tetM carried on a Tn916-like element.

The benefits of national patient programmes

National patient programmes (NPPs) provide a unique opportunity to study both the benefits and risks of unregistered products for treating rare diseases. By assessing the implementation of IV artesunate for severe malaria in the Netherlands, Belgium and France, it is recommended that NPPs should be harmonised throughout Europe.

Metagenomics and pathogenic detection

Patrick Tang, Jennifer Gardy and colleagues review metagenomics approaches for pathogen detection in public health settings, which have the potential to revolutionize diagnostic and clinical microbiology.

Insights into cholera knowledge

Investigation into sociocultural features of endemic cholera in three African countries finds both common and distinct health-seeking and knowledge patterns, which could be used to guide planning for future cholera control and elimination.

Body temperature can predict diagnosis of sepsis

Visual examination of abnormal body temperature patterns were seen to be an early indicator of sepsis in afebrile critically ill patients.

Screening mallards for Newcastle Disease Virus

Over 2000 mallards in Southern Sweden were screened for Newcastle Disease Virus, showing that  0.9% were infected with this important pathogen of poultry.

Interactions in plant-soil communities

Accurate detection and quantification of mycorrhization helper bacteria (MHB) and mycorrhizal fungi by real-time quantitative PCR assay reveals that the presence of microorganisms and plant roots can affect MHB-fungus interactions in a soil microbial community.

Rift Valley fever epidemiology in the South West Indian Ocean

Thomas Balenghien and colleagues describe that a single infected animal can trigger a major outbreak of Rift Valley Fever when entering a country with no history of infection.