Comparative Analysis Using Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis Highlights a Potential Transmission of Between Asymptomatic Buffaloes and Pigs in a Single Farm.

Buffaloes and pigs play an important epidemiological roll in the infection cycle, and asymptomatic animals can act as key component in the dissemination of the disease by horizontal, vertical, and cross-species transmission. Our study aimed and was able to confirm evidences of a cross-species transmission of Agona between asymptomatic buffaloes and pigs. Also, we described infection within the pig production phases, involving serotypes Agona, Senftenberg and Schwarzengrund. Rectal samples were collected from Jafarabadi buffaloes ( = 25) and Piau pigs ( = 32), located on a single farm. Agona was isolated from lactating buffaloes, gilts, pregnant sows, and weaned pigs, Schwarzengrund from lactating sows and Senftenberg from gilts, pregnant sows, lactating sows, and weaned pigs. Pulsed-field Gel Electrophoresis protocol (PFGE) was performed and revealed four different profiles. Profile 1 ( Agona), isolated from a pregnant sow, a gilt and two lactating buffaloes, revealed a indistinguishable PFGE pattern, confirming evidences of potential cross-species transmission. Profile 2 ( Agona), 3 ( Senftenberg), and 4 ( Schwarzengrund), isolated from pigs, revealed important indistinguishable PFGE patterns, evidencing infection within the pig production phases. Considering the epidemiological relevance of buffaloes and pigs in the cycle of infection, confirmation of a potential cross-species transmission of Agona and potential infection within the pig production phases highlights the importance of the correct establishment of preventive health strategies in farms, in special the importance of avoiding contact between buffaloes and pigs, since cross-species transmission can occur, increasing the risk of spreading the disease.