A previously unknown species of Bartonella bacteria has been identified in the Amazon National Park in the Brazilian state of Pará. The discovery, made in phlebotomine sand flies, has prompted researchers to investigate the potential health risks associated with this novel microorganism.

Brazilian Researchers Identify New Bacterial Strain

The newly identified bacteria shares genetic similarities with B. bacilliformis and B. ancashensis, two Andean species known to cause Carrión’s disease, also referred to as Peruvian wart and Oroya fever.While there is currently no evidence suggesting that this new strain causes disease in Brazil,its genetic link to pathogens in othre regions has raised alarms among public health officials.

The collaborative research effort was led by Marcos rogério André and Eunice Aparecida Bianchi Galati,both affiliated with prominent Brazilian institutions-the Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences of São Paulo State University and the School of Public Health of the University of São Paulo. Their work was supported by funding from FAPESP.

Understanding Bartonellosis

Bartonella bacteria are transmitted through various vectors, including sand flies, fleas, and lice.Infections caused by these bacteria are often chronic and can affect both humans and animals. These bacteria are notorious for their ability to persist in the body undetected for extended periods, potentially impacting individuals with compromised immune systems.

“Bartonellosis represents a neglected disease globally,” says André. “While cat scratch disease, caused by Bartonella henselae, is well-recognized amongst healthcare professionals, it’s crucial to better understand the true prevalence of these diseases, particularly in underserved regions lacking consistent access to medical care.”

Research Methodology and Findings

The research team analyzed DNA from 297 female sand flies collected within the Amazon National Park between February 2022 and February 2023. Samples were gathered along trails located near the uruá and Tracoá rivers. The discovery of a Bartonella species within these sand flies raises the possibility that pathogens similar to those causing Carrión’s disease could potentially adapt and spread outside of the Andean region.

Galati noted the similarities between the sand fly species found in Brazil and those in Peru known to carry B. bacilliformis, reinforcing the need for further investigation. This follows earlier research from the same team identifying new Bartonella species in the state of Acre, prompting them to expand their study to Pará and other locations across Brazil.

“We have detected a strain in Brazil that has not been previously described and is strikingly similar to two Bartonella species known to cause illness in andean countries,” explained André. “while we don’t yet know if this strain causes disease with distinct symptoms, further study is critical.”

Future Research and Public Health Implications

Researchers are continuing to map insect populations and the bacteria they carry, collecting samples from diverse biomes across Brazil. They are also aiming to identify the animal reservoirs that may harbor the bacteria.

“The next phase involves analyzing what animals these insects feed on to pinpoint potential reservoirs,” stated Galati. She noted that existing sample collections from the Atlantic Forest of São Paulo could offer valuable insights in collaboration with André.

Experts encourage a collaborative effort between doctors and researchers to investigate this bacterial group in cases of unexplained fever. “Could individuals experiencing recurrent, unexplained fevers be infected by this pathogen? Could patients diagnosed with Leishmaniasis also be co-infected?” asks André.

Understanding Bartonella: A Global Perspective

bartonella infections are a global concern. while some species, like B. henselae, cause relatively mild illnesses like cat scratch disease, others can lead to more severe and life-threatening conditions, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),Bartonellosis affects an estimated 400-10,000 people annually in the united States alone. CDC – Bartonellosis

Did You Know? The genus Bartonella is named after Chilean physician Alberto Barton, who first described Oroya fever in 1905.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bartonella

• What is bartonella? Bartonella is a genus of bacteria that can cause several diseases in humans and animals.
• How is Bartonella transmitted? Transmission typically occurs through vectors like sand flies,fleas,and lice.
• What are the symptoms of a Bartonella infection? Symptoms vary depending on the species and can range from mild skin lesions to severe systemic illness.
• Is Bartonella treatable? Most Bartonella infections can be treated with antibiotics.
• What is Carrión’s disease? Carrión’s disease is a potentially fatal illness caused by B. bacilliformis, transmitted by sand flies, and prevalent in the Andean region of South America.
• What role do sand flies play in Bartonella transmission? Sand flies act as vectors, transmitting Bartonella bacteria from animal reservoirs to humans.
• Why are researchers studying Bartonella in the Amazon? The discovery of new Bartonella species in the Amazon raises concerns about the potential for disease emergence and spread.