Mycobacterium bovis Infection in African Wild Dogs, Kruger National Park, South Africa

Abstract

We screened African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) in Kruger National Park, South Africa, for Mycobacterium bovis infection using an interferon-gamma release assay. We detected M. bovis sensitization in 20 of 21 packs; overall apparent infection prevalence was 83%. These animals experience high infection pressure, which may affect long-term survival and conservation strategies.

Keywords

• African wild dog
• bovine tuberculosis
• conservation
• infection prevalence
• interferon-gamma release assay
• Mycobacterium bovis