How Co-Infection Affects Rabbit Health
Author Information
Author(s): Cattadori Isabella M, Albert Réka, Boag Brian
Primary Institution: The University of Glasgow
Hypothesis
How does myxoma infection alter host susceptibility to the nematode Trichostrongylus retortaeformis in wild rabbits?
Conclusion
Myxoma infections increase host susceptibility to the nematode, leading to higher worm intensity and longer infectious periods.
Supporting Evidence
- Myxoma co-infection led to higher T. retortaeformis intensity in rabbits.
- Co-infected rabbits remained infectious for longer periods.
- Age-related patterns of infection were observed in the rabbit population.
Takeaway
When rabbits get infected with both a virus and a worm, they can get sicker and spread the worm more easily.
Methodology
The study used a demographic infection–immunity model based on field data collected over 26 years.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification of disease due to the evolution of myxoma virulence over time.
Limitations
The study did not explicitly measure the time delay between nematode and virus infection.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on male European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) of various age classes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website