Evidence for Human Streptococcus pneumoniae in wild and captive chimpanzees: A potential threat to wild populations

摘要: Habituation of wild great apes for tourism and research has had a significant positive effect on the conservation these species. However, risks associated with such activities have been identified, specifically transmission human respiratory viruses to apes, causing high morbidity and, occasionally, mortality. Here, we investigate source bacterial-viral co-infections in captive chimpanzee communities course several disease outbreaks. Molecular analyses showed that syncytial (HRSV) metapneumoviruses (HMPV) were involved etiology disease. In addition our analysis provide evidence coinfection Streptococcus (S.) pneumoniae. Characterisation isolates from chimpanzees point towards origin bacteria. Transmission bacteria is concern because – contrast HRSV HMPV - S. pneumoniae can become part nasopharyngeal flora, contributing severity progression. Furthermore potential spread other individuals community ultimately into population. Targeted vaccination programs could be used vaccinate habituated but also populations around ape habitats, bringing health benefits both humans apes.