Ecological questions concerning rickettsiae

The past ten years were characterized by the appearance of several “new” transmissible spotted fever group (SFG) rickettsioses, e.g. Israeli, Japanese and Astrakhan fevers. The factors responsible for their establishment probably include the introduction of chemicals from industry, agriculture and the timber industry into natural habitats. Such factors may influence the pathogenicity of these rickettsiae. In this case, in addition to the human influence, the mechanism of the circulation of the agents under natural conditions of both abiotic (climate, etc.) and biotic (flora and fauna) components may play a decisive role. The modern management of breeding domestic animals, indoor and outdoor maintenance, seasonal migrations, new animal foods, stress, etc., can be important factors affecting the biological properties of the Q fever agent. Nonpathogenic rickettsiae, rickettsia-like symbionts and other microorganisms circulating in nature may also influence the pathogenic rickettsiae. Studies on their interrelationships in hosts and vectors may markedly contribute to the understanding of the circulation of pathogenic rickettsiae in nature. Recognition of factors causing the appearance of new rickettsial agents or differences in pathogenicity of rickettsial strains is important not only for the prognosis of rickettsial diseases but also for the prognosis of other infectious diseases.