Identification of zoonotic pathogens in zoo animals in the Republic of Korea.

Zoo animals may harbor various zoonotic pathogens and may pose a potential risk to humans through close contact. Nevertheless, epidemiological data on zoonotic diseases are scarce. Here, we conducted an epidemiological investigation and genetic characterization of , species, , and in zoo animals in the Republic of Korea (ROK) and evaluated their zoonotic potential. A total of 261 fecal samples were collected from 27 animal species at one zoo between July 2022 and December 2023. Out of the four pathogens tested, one (0.4 %), twelve (4.5 %), and one (0.4 %) animals were found positive for , , and , respectively. species were not detected in zoo animals. Sequence analysis of based on the gene revealed that one sequence obtained from a black goat () exhibited 100 % homology with those reported from a rodent in the ROK. A zoonotic assemblage B ( = 1) of was identified in Patagonian mara (). Of the 12 -positive samples, eleven novel genotypes (KRZB1-4 and KRZS2-8) were identified in four Asian black bears () and eight squirrel monkeys (). Phylogenetically, ten novel genotypes belonged to group 1 with zoonotic potential, and one novel genotype, KRZB4, was assigned to group 10. This study showed that , , and infections were identified in zoo animals in the ROK. Our findings highlight the need for ongoing monitoring and effective strategies to prevent and control these zoonotic pathogens.