[Electron microscopic detection rate of enteral viruses in diarrhea of dogs, cats, calves, swine and foals in the year 1988–electron microscopic study results].

This research article analyzes the prevalence of various enteral viruses in the diarrhea samples of dogs, cats, calves, swine and foals. Using electron microscopy, the researchers evaluated samples collected in 1988 and found varying detection rates of parvovirus, rotavirus, and coronavirus among these animals.

Methodology

• The study was conducted in 1988 and involved inspecting the fecal and gut samples of 641 dogs, 198 cats, 576 calves, 108 piglets, and 64 foals. All animals were suffering from diarrhea.
• The method used for detecting virus infections was electron microscopy. This technique provides high-resolution images of the sample matter, allowing for easy identification and analysis of microscopic structures such as viruses.

Findings

• In dog and cat samples, parvovirus was detected at rates of 21.9% and 16.7% respectively.
• Rotavirus, either alone or in combination with coronavirus, was found in only 0.3-1.5% of dog and cat samples.
• For calves, the detected viruses were mainly rotavirus and coronavirus, with detection rates of 17.4% and 26.6% respectively. Parvovirus was detected in only 0.5% of calf samples.
• Piglet samples primarily contained coronavirus (25.0%). Lower percentages of rotavirus (2.8%), rota- and coronaviruses (0.9%) and parvovirus (0.9%) were also found.
• Foal feces showed the presence of rotavirus in 6.3% of cases and particles that resembled picornavirus in 4.7% of cases.
• Virus particles that could not be clearly identified but resembled corona- or picornaviruses were also found in samples across all animal species, albeit at low percentages (between 0.6-2.5).

Implications

• The results of this study are significant as they provide valuable insights into the viral causes behind diarrhea in various animals. This could lead to the development of more effective treatments and preventative measures.
• Through this research, it is clear that parvovirus is common in dogs and cats suffering from diarrhea, whereas rotavirus and coronavirus are more prevalent in calves. For piglets, coronavirus is the major concern, while foals are most affected by rotavirus.
• The study also draws attention to the need for further analysis of the unidentified virus particles. Knowledge gained from such research could contribute to the broader understanding of viruses and their impact on animal health.