A comparison of different antibiotic regimens for the treatment of naturally acquired shigellosis in rhesus and pigtailed macaques (Macaca mulatta and nemestrina)

BACKGROUND: Shigella spp. are common enteric pathogens in captive non‐human primates. Treatment of symptomatic infections involves supportive care and antibiotic therapy, typically with an empirical choice of antibiotic. METHODS: Twenty‐four clinically ill, Shigella PCR‐positive animals were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups: single‐dose ceftiofur crystalline free acid (CCFA), single‐dose azithromycin gavage, a 5‐day tapering azithromycin dose, or 7‐day course of enrofloxacin. We hypothesized that all antimicrobial therapies would have similar efficacy. RESULTS: Animals in all groups cleared Shigella, based on fecal PCR, and had resolution of clinical signs 2 weeks after treatment. Eight out of nine clinically ill and PCR‐positive animals tested negative by fecal culture. CONCLUSIONS: Single‐dose CCFA, single‐dose azithromycin, and a 5‐day tapering course of azithromycin all performed as well as a 7‐day course of enrofloxacin in eliminating Shigella infection. Fecal PCR may be a better diagnostic than culture for Shigella.