Veterinary Respiratory Infections: Immunity, Host Interaction and Treatments

Respiratory infections represent a significant burden across veterinary medicine, impacting companion animals, livestock, poultry, and wildlife species. These infections, caused by diverse viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic pathogens, lead to substantial morbidity, mortality, and economic losses. Understanding the intricate interplay between host immune defenses and pathogen evasion strategies is crucial for developing effective interventions. Furthermore, the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the need for holistic approaches under the One Health framework underscore the urgency of advancing knowledge in this field.



This initiative aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of veterinary respiratory infections by integrating cutting-edge research on host-pathogen interactions, immunological mechanisms, and evidence-based treatment strategies. The primary goal is to bridge fundamental science with clinical practice, promoting the development of novel diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccines, and preventive measures to enhance animal health, welfare, and productivity while mitigating AMR risks.



This Research Topic addresses the full spectrum of respiratory infectious disease research and clinical translation in veterinary science, with a focus on integrating multi-species comparative studies and One Health considerations. Manuscripts can include, but are not limited to, the following themes:



 Immunity: Innate and adaptive immune responses in the respiratory tract; immunopathology; correlates of protection; mucosal immunology; immunomodulation.

 Host-Pathogen Interactions: Pathogen virulence mechanisms; host susceptibility factors (genetics, age, comorbidities); microbiome influences on infection dynamics; zoonotic potential.

 Treatments: Antimicrobial stewardship and novel antimicrobials; antiviral and antifungal therapies; anti-inflammatory and supportive care; efficacy and safety of existing treatments; challenges of AMR.

 Diagnostics & Prevention: Development and application of advanced diagnostic tools; vaccine design, efficacy, and implementation; biosecurity protocols; environmental management strategies.

 Species-Specific Focus: Comparative studies across species (e.g., bovine respiratory disease, equine influenza, canine infectious tracheobronchitis, porcine respiratory disease complex, avian influenza).

 One Health Perspective: Impacts of veterinary respiratory infections on human health and the environment; integrated surveillance and control strategies.