Scientists, according to Emerging Infectious Diseases, have discovered a new type of bacteria capable of causing a serious infection that may transmit from pets to humans.
Researchers revealed that the new type of bacteria belongs to the Rickettsia group and named it Rickettsia finnyi, after it caused a previously unknown disease affecting both dogs and humans. The journal Emerging Infectious Diseases noted that the infection could transmit from dogs and pets to humans via a tick known as the "star-nosed tick".
Studies have shown that the bacteria cause symptoms in dogs similar to spotted fever or blue fever, including fever, weakness, and a sharp decrease in blood platelets. The bacteria were isolated from the blood of a sick dog, cultured in the laboratory, and its entire genetic sequence was analyzed, confirming that it is a completely new type associated with the causes of spotted fever.
Researchers indicate that the emergence of Rickettsia finnyi necessitates enhanced veterinary and epidemiological surveillance, as dogs can be an early indicator of the infection's emergence. It is essential to diagnose infected animals and carefully monitor the spread of the carrier tick to prevent the disease from transmitting to humans.
