Edwardsiellosis, an Emerging Zoonosis of Aquatic Animals

Zoonotic diseases from aquatic animals have not received much attention even though contact between humans and aquatic animals and their pathogens have increased significantly in the last several decades. Currently, Edwardsiella tarda, the causative agent of Edwardsiellosis in humans, is considered an emerging gastrointestinal zoonotic pathogen, which is acquired from aquatic animals. However, there is little information about E. tarda pathogenesis in mammals. In contrast, significant progress has been made regarding to E. tarda fish pathogenesis. Undoubtedly, research about E. tarda pathogenesis in mammals is urgent, not only to evaluate the safety of current E. tarda live attenuated vaccines for the aquaculture industry but also to prevent emerging E. tarda human infections.