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Kwak MJ, Chae KS, Kim JN, Whang KY, Kim Y. Dietary effects of melatonin on growth performance by modulation of protein bioavailability and behavior in early weaned rats and pigs. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 65:1053-1064. [PMID: 37969335 PMCID: PMC10640933 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2023.e44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin, which is produced from tryptophan, exerts various biological functions, including the regulation of circadian rhythm, sedative agents, and antioxidant ability. Therefore, we conducted two experiments with early-weaned rats and pigs to investigate the antioxidant and sedative effects of melatonin. In the rat experiment, a total of 42 rats (21 days old) were used, and the antioxidant capacity was determined. Next, we used 120 early-weaned piglets (21 days old) to conduct a 5-week experiment to evaluate the reductive effect of melatonin on energy-wasting movement, including roaming and fight states. Dietary melatonin supplementation significantly improved growth in both rats and pigs compared to the control groups. Additionally, rats fed a melatonin-supplemented diet showed advanced antioxidant capacity with a decrease in hepatic malondialdehyde concentration compared to rats fed a basal diet. Moreover, dietary melatonin ingestion increased resting and feeding behaviors and reduced roaming and fight behaviors during Days 8-21 compared to the control diet group. Collectively, early weaned animals given dietary melatonin supplementation showed improved growth through upregulation of hepatic antioxidant capacity and minimization of energy-wasting behavior, including roaming and fight states, after pigs' social hierarchy establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jin Kwak
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology
and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Seoul National
University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Kyeong Su Chae
- Division of Biotechnology, College of Life
Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841,
Korea
| | - Jong Nam Kim
- Department of Food Science &
Nutrition, Dongseo University, Busan 47011, Korea
| | - Kwang-Youn Whang
- Division of Biotechnology, College of Life
Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841,
Korea
| | - Younghoon Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology
and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Seoul National
University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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Zulu G, Mwape KE, Welte TM, Simuunza MC, Hachangu A, Mutale W, Chembensofu M, Sikasunge CS, Phiri IK, Winkler AS. Community knowledge, attitudes and practices related to Taenia solium taeniosis and cysticercosis in Zambia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011375. [PMID: 37561784 PMCID: PMC10443877 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies on Taenia solium taeniosis / cysticercosis (TSTC) have been conducted in Zambia. However, none has assessed community knowledge, attitudes and practices related to TSTC and epilepsy. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between November and December 2022. The design consisted of a questionnaire-based survey conducted in each of the 25 purposely selected villages in Chiparamba Rural Health Centre (RHC) catchment area in Chipata district of the Eastern Province. RESULTS A total of 588 participants comprising 259 (44%) males and 329 (56%) females with median age of 42 years (range 17 to 92 years) were interviewed. Awareness of the signs and symptoms of taeniosis and human cysticercosis (HCC), including transmission and prevention measures was very low. Whilst the majority had heard about epilepsy, they were not able to link HCC to epilepsy. Most participants were aware of cysticerci in pigs (PCC) including its predilection sites but were not aware of mode of transmission and prevention measures. The pork meat inspection by trained professionals was also not a common practice in the area. Risk perception of T. solium infections was thus very low. Overall knowledge, attitude and practice scores related to T. solium infections and to epilepsy were very low with median scores of 0.38 (IQR 0.25-0.54) for knowledge, 0.25 (0.25-0.50) for attitudes, and 0.31 (0.25-0.44) for practices. Males had better knowledge on TSTC (median = 0.42, p = 0.017, r = 0.098) and better practice scores (median = 0.38, p = < 0.001, r = 0.154) compared to females though the effect size was small. With regards to sanitation and hygiene washing with soap and water was reported by many but only few had a hand washing facility near their latrines. CONCLUSION The study shows overall poor knowledge, attitudes and practices related to TSTC among the community of Chiparamba RHC in Chipata district of the Eastern Province of Zambia. This poses a serious challenge for control and elimination of T. solium infections and thus efforts to improve knowledge, attitudes and practices should be made using a One Health approach for the control and elimination of TSTC. Educational programs about TSTC transmission, signs and symptoms, prevention, management and control need to be scaled up in the study area and Zambia as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Zulu
- Ministry of Health, Government of the Republic of Zambia
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kabemba E. Mwape
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Tamara M. Welte
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martin C. Simuunza
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Alex Hachangu
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Wilbroad Mutale
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Mwelwa Chembensofu
- Department of Paraclinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Chummy S. Sikasunge
- Department of Paraclinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Isaac K. Phiri
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Andrea S. Winkler
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Ngwili N, Ahimbisibwe S, Sentamu DN, Thomas LF, Ouma E. Structure of the pork value chain in Northern Uganda: implications for Taenia solium control interventions. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1177526. [PMID: 37283878 PMCID: PMC10239858 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1177526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study characterizes the pork value chain in Agago, Kitgum, Lamwo, and Pader districts of Northern Uganda and analyzes its implications on the transmission and control of Taenia solium infections. Methodology Data were collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) with farmers and pig and pork traders, key informant interviews (KIIs) with local government officials and consumers, and district-level multi-stakeholder mini workshops organized in the study area. The value chain actors identified include input and services providers, pig farmers, live pig traders, pork traders, and consumers. Results Most of the pig production, marketing and consumption was found to occur through informal channels. Pig production in this area is dominated by smallholder extensive systems, with most producers keeping less than 10 pigs. The production segment of the pig value chain is characterized by low use of inputs and services such as veterinary extension, drugs and improved feeds. Pigs scavenge for food under free-range systems and are at risk of parasitic infections such as the zoonotic helminth Taenia solium. This risk is exacerbated by the inherent contextual aspects of the study sites including low latrine coverage, open defecation, and high poverty. In addition, some respondents viewed pigs as "sanitation policemen" where they leave them to roam around and eat dirt including feaces thereby cleaning the environment. T. solium was recognized as an important pig health constraint in this value chain alongside African swine fever (ASF). Unlike ASF that was associated with the pig mortalities, the cysts were associated with rejection of pigs by traders at purchase, condemnation of pig carcasses by meat inspectors and rejection of raw pork by consumers at points of sale. Discussion Poor organization of the value chain and lack veterinary extension and meat inspection services results in some pigs infected with T. solium entering the food chain, exposing consumers to infection with the parasite. To reduce the pig production losses and public health impact from T. solium infections, there is need for control and prevention interventions targeting specific nodes of the value chain where the risk of transmission is highest.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Salaviriuse Ahimbisibwe
- International Livestock Research Institute, c/o Alliance-Bioversity International-CIAT, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Derrick Noah Sentamu
- International Livestock Research Institute, c/o Alliance-Bioversity International-CIAT, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lian F. Thomas
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Institute of Infection Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, Wirral, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Ouma
- International Livestock Research Institute, c/o Alliance-Bioversity International-CIAT, Kampala, Uganda
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Makasi CE, Kilale AM, Ngowi BJ, Lema Y, Katiti V, Mahande MJ, Msoka EF, Stelzle D, Winkler AS, Mmbaga BT. Knowledge and misconceptions about epilepsy among people with epilepsy and their caregivers attending mental health clinics: A qualitative study in Taenia solium endemic pig-keeping communities in Tanzania. Epilepsia Open 2023. [PMID: 36896648 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Taenia solium (T. solium) neurocysticercosis (NCC) affects the central nervous system and is associated with 30% of acquired epilepsy in some endemic areas. Epilepsy is a stigmatizing disease in many societies and people with epilepsy (PWE) and their families experience discrimination. This study aimed to explore the knowledge, perceptions, and experiences of epilepsy among PWE and their caregivers attending mental health clinics. METHODS In T. solium endemic areas of Tanzania, PWE and their caregivers attending mental health clinics were identified and their informed consent was sought prior to study participation. In-depth interviews were conducted in Swahili language and analyzed thematically. The coding was undertaken by two independent researchers using NVivo (Version 12, QSR International). RESULTS Thirty-eight participants were interviewed. Three themes were identified during the analysis, namely, knowledge about epilepsy; perception of epilepsy; and experience with epilepsy among PWE and their caregivers. Participants commonly defined epilepsy as a "falling disease," perceived to be caused by witchcraft, and were unaware of the association between T. solium and epilepsy. Stigmatization of epilepsy was reported as a problem. Reported treatment patterns after the initial onset of epilepsy varied widely; however, patients usually began treatment with traditional healing methods, and only later opted for biomedical treatment. Patients had generally poor adherence to antiseizure medication, which could be caused by inadequate knowledge or irregular supply. SIGNIFICANCE Level of knowledge about epilepsy was low, and NCC was not mentioned as a cause of epilepsy among participants. Epilepsy was generally perceived to be the result of witchcraft, evil spirits, or curses. Health education is needed, including an explanation of the model of T. solium transmission and the insistence on hygiene measures. This could reduce the number of new infections with T. solium, improve access to prompt biomedical treatment, and improve the lives of PWE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Makasi
- National Institute for Medical Research, Muhimbili Research Centre, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College of Tumaini University, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Andrew M Kilale
- National Institute for Medical Research, Muhimbili Research Centre, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Bernard J Ngowi
- National Institute for Medical Research, Muhimbili Research Centre, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, Tanzania
| | - Yakobo Lema
- National Institute for Medical Research, Muhimbili Research Centre, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Victor Katiti
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania.,Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Michael J Mahande
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College of Tumaini University, Moshi, Tanzania.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Elizabeth F Msoka
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College of Tumaini University, Moshi, Tanzania.,Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Dominik Stelzle
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andrea S Winkler
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany.,Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Blandina T Mmbaga
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College of Tumaini University, Moshi, Tanzania.,Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
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Chenais E, Fischer K, Aliro T, Ståhl K, Lewerin SS. Co-created community contracts support biosecurity changes in a region where African swine fever is endemic – Part II: Implementation of biosecurity measures. Prev Vet Med 2023; 214:105902. [PMID: 36966659 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.105902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Smallholder subsistence pig production is common in Uganda and African swine fever (ASF) is endemic in the country, with its spread driven by human activities along the smallholder value chain. Previous research in the study area has revealed that many stakeholders are aware of how ASF is spread, its prevention and control, and have a generally positive attitude towards biosecurity. Despite this, even basic biosecurity is largely lacking. Costs, as well as a lack of adaptation to the local context, culture and traditions have been identified as factors hindering biosecurity implementation. Community engagement and local ownership of disease problems are increasingly recognised as important for improving disease prevention and control. The objective of this study was to investigate the capacity of participatory action at community level with broad inclusion of stakeholders to improve biosecurity in the smallholder pig value chain. Specific attention was paid to participants' perceptions and experiences of implementing the biosecurity measures included in their co-created community contracts. The study was conducted in Northern Uganda in villages purposively selected on the basis of previous occurrences of ASF. In each village, farmers and traders were also purposively selected. At a first meeting, basic information about ASF was shared and participants presented with a list of biosecurity measures adapted for farmers and traders respectively. Participants discussed each measure in farmer and trader subgroups, decided on the measures to implement for one year, and signed a community contract to this effect. The following year, interviews were again undertaken and implementation support given. Interview data were coded and thematically analysed. Each subgroup chose a minimum of three and a maximum of nine measures, with wide variations between villages in their selection of measures. At the follow-ups, none of the subgroups had fully implemented what had been agreed in their contract, but all had changed some of their biosecurity routines. Some frequently recommended biosecurity measures, such as not borrowing breeding boars, were not considered feasible. Relatively simple and cheap biosecurity measures were rejected for reasons of cost, highlighting the participants' general level of poverty and the relevance of poverty as a specific factor governing disease control results. The participatory methodology allowing for discussions, co-creation and the option to refuse measures seemed to facilitate the implementation of measures that had initially been thought to be controversial. The broad community approach was deemed to be positive for strengthening community identity, cooperation and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Chenais
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Klara Fischer
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tonny Aliro
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environment Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Karl Ståhl
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Susanna Sternberg Lewerin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Erika C, Susanna SL, Tonny A, Karl S, Klara F. Co-created community contracts support biosecurity changes in a region where African swine fever is endemic - Part I: The methodology. Prev Vet Med 2023; 212:105840. [PMID: 36640661 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.105840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In Northern Uganda more people live in poverty than elsewhere in the country. Small-scale pig-keeping is common and African swine fever (ASF) is endemic, spreading along the smallholder value chain. Biosecurity measures remain the only way to prevent and control the spread of ASF in this context. Previous research in the study area has shown that many stakeholders are aware of ASF, how it is spread and methods for prevention and control, but biosecurity implementation remains limited. Participatory approaches have been suggested in order to increase community engagement in relation to animal disease control, ensuring that disease prevention or control actions are guided by local people's priorities and the promotion of local ownership of disease control. The objective of this study was to investigate the capacity of participatory action at community level with a broad inclusion of stakeholders to initiate change and greater stakeholder ownership to improve biosecurity in the smallholder pig value chain. Specific attention was paid to the feasibility of co-created community contracts for this purpose. The study was carried out in Northern Uganda in six purposively selected villages and included both farmers and traders. Centred on co-created community contracts on biosecurity, the study comprised repeated group discussions, semi-structured and structured group and individual interviews, as well as field observations. At the first meeting, participants were presented with suggested biosecurity measures adapted for farmers and traders respectively. Participants discussed each measure, agreed which ones to implement for one year, and co-created a community contract to this effect. During the study period, repeated interviews were undertaken and implementation support was provided. Interview data was coded and thematically analysed. Great diversity was observed between communities with regard to which and how many measures were selected, illustrating heterogeneity in the possibilities of biosecurity implementation and the complexity of livelihood challenges. The methodology appeared to be effective at instigating change, with all the communities changing some of their biosecurity behaviour during the study period. The intensified communication and cooperation around pigs in the communities reinforced the sense of group identity and the capacity-building offered at the first meeting supported implementation and appeared to be more important than the physical contract. Participants reported feeling empowered and described how they shared their knowledge, educated their peers and acted as catalysts for wider biosecurity change in their communities. These are promising results and indicate a positive attitude to both the agreed measures and the methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenais Erika
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Sternberg Lewerin Susanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Aliro Tonny
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Ståhl Karl
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fischer Klara
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Millar J, Morais O, Da Silva H, Hick P, Foster A, Jong JBDC, Pereira A, Ting S, da Conceição F, Toribio JALML. Community engagement strengthens pig disease knowledge and passive surveillance in Timor-Leste. Front Vet Sci 2023; 9:1024094. [PMID: 36713866 PMCID: PMC9878314 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1024094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Smallholder pig production in Timor-Leste is culturally and economically important for most households. However, regular and ongoing disease surveillance and pig husbandry training for farmers are limited. This article describes collaborative social and diagnostic research followed by a pilot community engagement program to improve farmer and technician knowledge, skills, and working relationships. There were three phases: (1) A qualitative study in 2020 to explore the experiences and knowledge of 133 pig farmers, 6 village leaders, and 16 district veterinary technicians on pig diseases and reporting, treatment methods, and access to information or assistance. (2) A pilot community engagement program in 3 villages in 2021 with the diagnostic investigation with samples analyzed from 27 dead pigs, and (3) Evaluation of community engagement and training outcomes. Results of the qualitative study revealed limited reporting of sick or dead pigs by farmers to veterinary technicians due to a lack of trust in the veterinary diagnostic system. Most technicians lacked experience with sampling or post-mortems so diagnostic training was undertaken for the pilot disease investigation. Evaluation results showed improved knowledge, motivation, and confidence of government staff and farmers. The credibility of veterinary technicians improved and gave them more confidence to work with communities. Farmers felt supported because all aspects of pig husbandry were addressed, and they were more willing to report dead or sick pigs. The project indicates that improved passive disease surveillance can be achieved by engaging communities in smallholder pig farming in Timor-Leste. Further research and testing of the approach in other districts and countries is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Millar
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Albury, NSW, Australia,*Correspondence: Joanne Millar ✉
| | - Olavio Morais
- National Directorate of Veterinary, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dili, Timor-Leste
| | | | - Paul Hick
- Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Menangle, NSW, Australia
| | - Ayrial Foster
- Berrimah Veterinary Laboratory, Department of Primary Industry and Resources, Northern Territory Government, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | | | - Abrao Pereira
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Shawn Ting
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Felisiano da Conceição
- National Directorate of Veterinary, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dili, Timor-Leste
| | - Jenny-Ann L. M. L. Toribio
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW, Australia
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Foodborne Parasites and Their Complex Life Cycles Challenging Food Safety in Different Food Chains. Foods 2022; 12:foods12010142. [PMID: 36613359 PMCID: PMC9818752 DOI: 10.3390/foods12010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic foodborne parasites often represent complex, multi host life cycles with parasite stages in the hosts, but also in the environment. This manuscript aims to provide an overview of important zoonotic foodborne parasites, with a focus on the different food chains in which parasite stages may occur. We have chosen some examples of meat-borne parasites occurring in livestock (Taenia spp., Trichinella spp. and Toxoplasma gondii), as well as Fasciola spp., an example of a zoonotic parasite of livestock, but transmitted to humans via contaminated vegetables or water, covering the 'farm to fork' food chain; and meat-borne parasites occurring in wildlife (Trichinella spp., Toxoplasma gondii), covering the 'forest to fork' food chain. Moreover, fish-borne parasites (Clonorchis spp., Opisthorchis spp. and Anisakidae) covering the 'pond/ocean/freshwater to fork' food chain are reviewed. The increased popularity of consumption of raw and ready-to-eat meat, fish and vegetables may pose a risk for consumers, since most post-harvest processing measures do not always guarantee the complete removal of parasite stages or their effective inactivation. We also highlight the impact of increasing contact between wildlife, livestock and humans on food safety. Risk based approaches, and diagnostics and control/prevention tackled from an integrated, multipathogen and multidisciplinary point of view should be considered as well.
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The role of cooking practices in the transmission of the foodborne parasite Taenia solium: A qualitative study in an endemic area of Southern Tanzania. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274877. [PMID: 36197909 PMCID: PMC9534410 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The pork tapeworm Taenia solium is a zoonotic food-borne parasite endemic in many developing countries causing human cysticercosis and taeniosis as well as porcine cysticercosis. It mainly affects the health of rural smallholder pig farmers and their communities, resulting in lower health status, reduced pork quality, and economic loss due to condemnation of pigs or low pricing of pork. This qualitative study aimed to identify key food related practices linked to consumption of pork at village level, of importance for transmission of taeniosis. We used an interpretivist-constructivist paradigm in a multiple case study of exploratory qualitative research design. Data was acquired through guided and probing interviews with 64 pork cooks, and 14 direct observations in four villages in a T. solium endemic area of Mbeya Region in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. The study showed that the informants were members of communities of practice through their pork cooking practices, one community of practice for the restaurant cooks and one for the home cooks, learning, sharing, and distributing their cooking skills. Furthermore, the analysis showed that the pork cooks generally had some awareness of there being something undesirable in raw pork, but they had very diverse understandings of what it was, or of its potential harm. Major potential transmission points were identified in restaurants and in home kitchens. It appears that the pork cooks act according to socio-cultural and economic factors guiding them in their actions, including pressure from customers in restaurants, the family values of tradition in the home kitchens, and the culturally guided risk perception and appraisal. These practices might generate potential transmission points. Future research on interventions aimed at preventing the spread of T. solium taeniosis should recognise the importance of tradition and culture in risky food practices.
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Porcine Cysticercosis Sero-prevalence and Factors Associated with its Occurrence in Southern Highlands, Tanzania. SCIENTIFIC AFRICAN 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2022.e01382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Chenais E, Depner K, Ebata A, Penrith M, Pfeiffer DU, Price C, Ståhl K, Fischer K. Exploring the hurdles that remain for control of African swine fever in smallholder farming settings. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e3370-e3378. [PMID: 35737577 PMCID: PMC9796485 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
To honour the 100 years anniversary of the first publication about African swine fever (ASF) a webinar with a particular focus on disease control in the smallholder sector was organized. This article is based on the webinar, summarizing the early history of ASF research, reflecting on the current global disease situation and bringing forward some suggestions that could contribute towards achieving control of ASF. The first description of ASF by R. Eustace Montgomery in 1921 laid the foundations for what we know about the disease today. Subsequent research confirmed its association with warthogs and soft ticks of the Ornithodoros moubata complex. During the latter half of the 21st century, exponential growth of pig production in Africa has led to a change in the ASF-epidemiology pattern. It is now dominated by a cycle involving domestic pigs and pork with virus spread driven by people. In 2007, a global ASF epidemic started, reaching large parts of Europe, Asia and the Americas. In Europe, this epidemic has primarily affected wild boar. In Asia, wild boar, smallholders and industrialized pig farms have been affected with impact on local, national and international pig value chains. Globally and historically, domestic pigs in smallholder settings are most frequently affected and the main driver of ASF virus transmission. Awaiting a safe and efficacious vaccine, we need to continue focus on other measures, such as biosecurity, for controlling the disease. However, smallholders face specific challenges linked to poverty and other structural factors in implementing biosecurity measures that can prevent spread. Improving biosecurity in the smallholder sector thus remains an important tool for preventing and controlling ASF. In this regard, interdisciplinary research can help to find new ways to promote safe practices, facilitate understanding and embrace smallholders' perspectives, engage stakeholders and adjust prevention and control policies to improve implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Chenais
- Department of Disease Control and EpidemiologyNational Veterinary InstituteUppsalaSweden
| | - Klaus Depner
- Institute for International Animal Health / One HealthFriedrich‐Loeffler‐InstitutGreifswald‐Insel RiemsGermany
| | - Ayako Ebata
- Institute of Development StudiesUniversity of SussexBrightonUK
| | - Mary‐Louise Penrith
- Department of Veterinary Tropical DiseasesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
| | - Dirk U. Pfeiffer
- Centre for Applied One Health Research and Policy AdviceCity University of Hong KongHong KongPR China,Pathobiology and Population SciencesRoyal Veterinary CollegeLondonUK
| | - Cortney Price
- Animal Production and Health DivisionFood and Agriculture Organization of the United NationsRomeItaly
| | - Karl Ståhl
- Department of Disease Control and EpidemiologyNational Veterinary InstituteUppsalaSweden
| | - Klara Fischer
- Department of Urban and Rural DevelopmentSwedish University of Agricultural SciencesUppsalaSweden
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12
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Larkins A, Bruce M, Di Bari C, Devleesschauwer B, Pigott DM, Ash A. A scoping review of burden of disease studies estimating disability-adjusted life years due to Taenia solium. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010567. [PMID: 35793356 PMCID: PMC9292123 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Taenia solium is the most significant global foodborne parasite and the leading cause of preventable human epilepsy in low and middle-income countries in the form of neurocysticercosis.
Objectives
This scoping review aimed to examine the methodology of peer-reviewed studies that estimate the burden of T. solium using disability-adjusted life years.
Eligibility criteria
Studies must have calculated disability-adjusted life years relating to T. solium.
Charting methods
The review process was managed by a single reviewer using Rayyan. Published data relating to disease models, data sources, disability-adjusted life years, sensitivity, uncertainty, missing data, and key limitations were collected.
Results
15 studies were included for review, with seven global and eight national or sub-national estimates. Studies primarily employed attributional disease models that relied on measuring the occurrence of epilepsy before applying an attributable fraction to estimate the occurrence of neurocysticercosis-associated epilepsy. This method relies heavily on the extrapolation of observational studies across populations and time periods; however, it is currently required due to the difficulties in diagnosing neurocysticercosis. Studies discussed that a lack of data was a key limitation and their results likely underestimate the true burden of T. solium. Methods to calculate disability-adjusted life years varied across studies with differences in approaches to time discounting, age weighting, years of life lost, and years of life lived with disability. Such differences limit the ability to compare estimates between studies.
Conclusions
This review illustrates the complexities associated with T. solium burden of disease studies and highlights the potential need for a burden of disease reporting framework. The burden of T. solium is likely underestimated due to the challenges in diagnosing neurocysticercosis and a lack of available data. Advancement in diagnostics, further observational studies, and new approaches to parameterising disease models are required if estimates are to improve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Larkins
- Global Burden of Animal Diseases Programme https://animalhealthmetrics.org
- Centre for Biosecurity and One Health, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Mieghan Bruce
- Global Burden of Animal Diseases Programme https://animalhealthmetrics.org
- Centre for Biosecurity and One Health, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Carlotta Di Bari
- Global Burden of Animal Diseases Programme https://animalhealthmetrics.org
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Brecht Devleesschauwer
- Global Burden of Animal Diseases Programme https://animalhealthmetrics.org
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - David M. Pigott
- Global Burden of Animal Diseases Programme https://animalhealthmetrics.org
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, Department of Health Metrics Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Amanda Ash
- Centre for Biosecurity and One Health, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
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13
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Ngwili N, Thomas L, Githigia S, Johnson N, Wahome R, Roesel K. Stakeholders' Knowledge, Attitude, and Perceptions on the Control of Taenia solium in Kamuli and Hoima Districts, Uganda. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:833721. [PMID: 35464359 PMCID: PMC9021822 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.833721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Taenia (T.) solium is a zoonotic parasite causing three diseases: Taeniasis and cysticercosis in humans and porcine cysticercosis in pigs. Although biomedically, the transmission of the parasite can be easily interrupted at six points along the life cycle, the contextual factors that may influence the adoption of these control strategies in Uganda remain unclear. This study assessed the stakeholders' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions relating to the six control strategies for T. solium infections in Kamuli and Hoima districts, Uganda. A total of 22 focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted with pig farmers, community leaders, pig/pork traders, animal health assistants, and human health assistants. In addition, nine key informant interviews were held with senior officials in the ministries of agriculture and health and other relevant agencies at the district level. The results showed differential, limited, and fragmented knowledge on T. solium infections among stakeholders. Pig farmers, community leaders, and pig/pork traders had almost no knowledge and were often confused regarding the differences existing between T. solium and other gastro-intestinal infections in pigs and humans. Pig confinement, pit latrine construction, coverage, maintenance, and sustained use are influenced by cultural, socio-economic, and physical/ environmental factors of the study population and area. Proper sensitisation programmes and health education interventions should target all, but with appropriately focused material to suit the different stakeholder categories. Reminders or nudges may be needed to ensure that increase in knowledge translates to changes in practise. Intervention programmes should also aim to overcome challenges created by the various contextual factors operating in the specific endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Ngwili
- Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- *Correspondence: Nicholas Ngwili ; orcid.org/0000-0002-3940-4438
| | - Lian Thomas
- Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel Githigia
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nancy Johnson
- International Food Policy Research Institute IFPRI, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Raphael Wahome
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kristina Roesel
- Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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14
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Soare C, Garcia-Ara A, Seguino A, Uys M, Thomas LF. Maximising Societal Benefit From the Control of Neglected Zoonoses: Identifying Synergies and Trade-Offs in the Control of Taenia solium. Front Vet Sci 2022; 8:794257. [PMID: 35224073 PMCID: PMC8865387 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.794257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Interventions to control or eradicate neglected zoonoses are generally paid for through the public purse and when these interventions focus on the animal hosts, they are often expected to be performed and financed through the state veterinary service. The benefits of control, however, accrue across the human, animal, and environmental spaces and enhance both public and private interests. Additionally, disease control interventions do not take place in a vacuum and the indirect impacts of our actions should also be considered if the societal benefit of interventions is to be maximised. With the caveat that unintended consequences can and will occur, pre-identifying potential synergies and trade-offs in our disease control initiatives allows for them to be considered in intervention design and monitored during programme roll-out. In this paper, using a One Health approach with the example of Taenia solium control, we identify potential indirect impacts which may arise and how these may influence both our choice of intervention and opportunities to optimise the animal, environmental, and societal benefits of control through maximising synergies and minimising trade-offs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Soare
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, United Kingdom
| | - Amelia Garcia-Ara
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandro Seguino
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, United Kingdom
| | - Matthys Uys
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, United Kingdom
| | - Lian F. Thomas
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- *Correspondence: Lian F. Thomas
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15
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Butala C, Brook TM, Majekodunmi AO, Welburn SC. Neurocysticercosis: Current Perspectives on Diagnosis and Management. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:615703. [PMID: 34041288 PMCID: PMC8141574 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.615703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Porcine cysticercosis, human taeniasis, and (neuro)cysticercosis are endemic in many low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) where they present a significant health burden to affected communities. Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is one of the leading causes of human epilepsy in many hyperendemic regions in Latin America, Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports an estimated 2.5-8.3 million cases of NCC annually with a disability-adjusted life year (DALY) burden of 2.8 million, but as for all neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), these values are likely to be underestimated. Diagnosis of NCC is complex and most accurately diagnosed using clinical neuroimaging that is unavailable in most hyperendemic regions in LMIC. On January 28, 2021, WHO will launch its road map for the NTDs' "Ending the neglect to attain the Sustainable Development Goals: a road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021-2030." Taeniasis/cysticercosis is targeted for control success considered as steady increase in the number of countries with intensified control in hyperendemic areas [increasing from 2 (3%) in 2020 to 4 (6%) in 2023, to 9 (14%) by 2025, and to 17 (27%) by 2030]. Cross-cutting targets that include 100% access to at least basic water supply, sanitation, and hygiene in areas endemic for NTDs and 75% integrated treatment coverage for preventative chemotherapy will additionally impact on the taeniasis/cysticercosis/NCC complex. With no vaccine available for humans, prevention of infection depends on communication to the public of the life cycle of a complex zoonosis to promote behavior change, underpinned by practical control measures including treatment of human taeniasis and (neuro)cysticercosis with albendazole and praziquantel [widely used as part of the mass drug administration (MDA) deworming programs], surgery where appropriate, and effective vaccination and deworming for pigs supported by meat inspection. Here, we review recent advances in tools and implementation for Taenia solium taeniasis/(neuro)cysticercosis (TSTC) control and milestones on the onward path to elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Butala
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, China
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - T. M. Brook
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ayodele O. Majekodunmi
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, China
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Christina Welburn
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, China
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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16
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Molia S, Saillard J, Dellagi K, Cliquet F, Bart JM, Rotureau B, Giraudoux P, Jannin J, Debré P, Solano P. Practices in research, surveillance and control of neglected tropical diseases by One Health approaches: A survey targeting scientists from French-speaking countries. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009246. [PMID: 33661894 PMCID: PMC7963066 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
One health (OH) approaches have increasingly been used in the last decade in the fight against zoonotic neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). However, descriptions of such collaborations between the human, animal and environmental health sectors are still limited for French-speaking tropical countries. The objective of the current survey was to explore the diversity of OH experiences applied to research, surveillance and control of NTDs by scientists from French-speaking countries, and discuss their constraints and benefits. Six zoonotic NTDs were targeted: echinococcoses, trypanosomiases, leishmaniases, rabies, Taenia solium cysticercosis and leptospiroses. Invitations to fill in an online questionnaire were sent to members of francophone networks on NTDs and other tropical diseases. Results from the questionnaire were discussed during an international workshop in October 2019. The vast majority (98%) of the 171 respondents considered OH approaches relevant although only 64% had implemented them. Among respondents with OH experience, 58% had encountered difficulties mainly related to a lack of knowledge, interest and support for OH approaches by funding agencies, policy-makers, communities and researchers. Silos between disciplines and health sectors were still strong at both scientific and operational levels. Benefits were reported by 94% of respondents with OH experience, including increased intellectual stimulation, stronger collaborations, higher impact and cost-efficiency of interventions. Recommendations for OH uptake included advocacy, capacity-building, dedicated funding, and higher communities' involvement. Improved research coordination by NTD networks, production of combined human-animal health NTD impact indicators, and transversal research projects on diagnostic and reservoirs were also considered essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Molia
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France
- ASTRE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Koussai Dellagi
- Institut Pasteur International Network, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Florence Cliquet
- ANSES, Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, Malzéville, France
| | | | - Brice Rotureau
- Trypanosome Transmission Group, Trypanosome Cell Biology Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors and INSERM U1201, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Giraudoux
- Chrono-environnement Université de Bourgogne Franche-Comté/CNRS, Besançon, France
| | - Jean Jannin
- Société de Pathologie Exotique, Paris, France
| | | | - Philippe Solano
- INTERTRYP, IRD, CIRAD, Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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17
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Penrith ML, Bastos A, Chenais E. With or without a Vaccine-A Review of Complementary and Alternative Approaches to Managing African Swine Fever in Resource-Constrained Smallholder Settings. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9020116. [PMID: 33540948 PMCID: PMC7913123 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The spectacular recent spread of African swine fever (ASF) in Eastern Europe and Asia has been strongly associated, as it is in the endemic areas in Africa, with free-ranging pig populations and low-biosecurity backyard pig farming. Managing the disease in wild boar populations and in circumstances where the disease in domestic pigs is largely driven by poverty is particularly challenging and may remain so even in the presence of effective vaccines. The only option currently available to prevent ASF is strict biosecurity. Among small-scale pig farmers biosecurity measures are often considered unaffordable or impossible to implement. However, as outbreaks of ASF are also unaffordable, the adoption of basic biosecurity measures is imperative to achieve control and prevent losses. Biosecurity measures can be adapted to fit smallholder contexts, culture and costs. A longer-term approach that could prove valuable particularly for free-ranging pig populations would be exploitation of innate resistance to the virus, which is fully effective in wild African suids and has been observed in some domestic pig populations in areas of prolonged endemicity. We explore available options for preventing ASF in terms of feasibility, practicality and affordability among domestic pig populations that are at greatest risk of exposure to ASF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary-Louise Penrith
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-12-342-1514
| | - Armanda Bastos
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa;
| | - Erika Chenais
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, S-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden;
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18
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Shongwe NA, Byaruhanga C, Dorny P, Dermauw V, Qekwana DN. Knowledge, practices and seroprevalence of Taenia species in smallholder farms in Gauteng, South Africa. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0244055. [PMID: 33338060 PMCID: PMC7748137 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Porcine cysticercosis and associated human infections are endemic in Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Poor agricultural practices, sanitary practices, and lack of knowledge increase the burden of the diseases in susceptible populations. This study investigates the seroprevalence of Taenia spp. in township pigs in Gauteng, South Africa and describes knowledge and farming practices of pig farmers regarding T. solium infections. Blood samples were collected from 126 pigs in three Gauteng township areas, and analyzed for active Taenia spp. infection using the B158/B60 Ag-ELISA. Farmer questionnaire surveys were conducted in four township areas to investigate the level of knowledge and practices associated with porcine cysticercosis and neurocysticercosis. Logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between predictor variables and the outcome variable, knowledge of porcine cysticercosis or knowledge of neurocysticercosis. Overall, 7% of the pigs were seropositive for active Taenia spp. infection. 46% of farmers practiced a free-ranging system, while 25% practiced a semi-intensive system. Latrines were absent on all farms; however, 95% of farmers indicated that they have access to latrines at home. Most farmers had no knowledge of porcine cysticercosis (55%) or neurocysticercosis (79%), and this was not associated with any of the factors investigated. The prevalence of active Taenia spp. infection was reasonably low in this study, yet the knowledge level was also low, thus calling for further educational and training programmes to prevent Taenia spp. transmission in these communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nothando Altrecia Shongwe
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Charles Byaruhanga
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Veronique Dermauw
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Daniel Nenene Qekwana
- Section of Veterinary Public Health, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- * E-mail:
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Vaernewyck V, Mwape KE, Mubanga C, Devleesschauwer B, Gabriël S, Trevisan C. Effects of 'The Vicious Worm' educational software on Taenia solium knowledge among key pork supply chain workers in Zambia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008790. [PMID: 33075045 PMCID: PMC7595624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The neglected zoonotic cestode Taenia solium is endemic in many low- and middle-income countries, including Zambia. The parasite infects humans and pigs, inflicting high socioeconomic and disease burdens in endemic areas. Health education is regarded as an important component in T. solium control and previous studies indicate that ‘The Vicious Worm’ may be an effective T. solium health education tool for Tanzanian medical and agricultural professionals and Zambian primary school students. This study aimed to assess the effects of health education using ‘The Vicious Worm’ among Zambian pork supply chain workers, because the pork supply chain greatly influences food safety and security in Zambia. Half-day educational workshops using ‘The Vicious Worm’ and subsequent follow-up sessions were organized in the Lusaka and Katete districts of Zambia in March and April 2019. Questionnaires were administered before, after, and three weeks after the use of ‘The Vicious Worm’ to assess the program’s impact on knowledge uptake and short-term retention. Focus group discussions were conducted to assess the program’s user experience and the participants’ beliefs, attitudes, and insights. In total, 47 pork supply chain workers participated: 25 from Lusaka and 22 from Katete. Overall, knowledge about T. solium was significantly higher (p<0.001) both immediately after, and three weeks after the use of ‘The Vicious Worm’ compared to baseline knowledge. Focus group discussions indicated incipient attitudinal and behavioral change, as well as a positive reception of the software; with participants describing the software as simple, educative, and useful to share knowledge. The study results indicate that workshops using ‘The Vicious Worm’ may be effective for short-term T. solium health education among key pork supply chain workers. Follow-up studies are required to assess long-term effects, transfer of knowledge and behavioral change. However, educational interventions with ‘The Vicious Worm’ could be considered for integrated T. solium control programs in sub-Saharan Africa, especially if the educational content is further simplified and clarified. The tapeworm Taenia solium causes epilepsy and severe headaches in humans and economic losses to smallholder farmers in endemic areas where free-roaming pigs, poor sanitation and informal animal slaughter are prevalent. Treatment of human taeniosis and interventions in pigs (vaccination and anthelmintic treatment) have been established as essential tools to achieve short-term control, but health education will be crucial to sustain long-term control. ‘The Vicious Worm’ is a specific T. solium health education tool aiming to convey simple and meaningful messages concerning disease prevention and control. Previous studies found significant knowledge increases after the use of the educational tool in Tanzanian medical and agricultural professionals, and Zambian primary school students. We organized half-day educational workshops using ‘The Vicious Worm’ for pork supply chain workers at two study sites in Zambia, with follow-up visits three weeks later. We found a significant increase in participants’ knowledge, both immediately and three weeks after the health education. Furthermore, the program was well received and potentially led to attitudinal and behavioral change that could deter the propagation of T. solium. We conclude that ‘The Vicious Worm’ educational interventions may contribute to a safer pork supply chain and we encourage its implementation in future T. solium control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Vaernewyck
- Department of Veterinary Public health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kabemba Evans Mwape
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Chishimba Mubanga
- Department of Veterinary Public health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Brecht Devleesschauwer
- Department of Veterinary Public health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sarah Gabriël
- Department of Veterinary Public health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chiara Trevisan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- * E-mail:
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20
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Ebata A, MacGregor H, Loevinsohn M, Win KS. Why behaviours do not change: structural constraints that influence household decisions to control pig diseases in Myanmar. Prev Vet Med 2020; 183:105138. [PMID: 32977171 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.105138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This article problematises the ways in which behavioural change by poor individuals dominates the global discussions on means to tackle issues caused by systemic problems. We do so by focusing on the case of animal diseases, a symptom of many systematic failures. While livestock farming has long been praised as a mitigating factor against poverty, livestock diseases threaten the lives and livelihoods of poor and marginalised people who depend on animals. Aiming at controlling animal diseases, policy makers tend to focus on behavioural change by individual farmers by enhancing their knowledge. We conducted an in-depth qualitative research among pig farmers in Myanmar, a country that is rapidly increasing livestock production, to document contextual and systematic constraints that influence farmers' understandings and perceptions of disease-related risks and household-level decisions to invest in animal disease control. We conducted in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation in three townships in the Yangon region. Structural constraints such as weak veterinary health system and limited access to low-interest credit prevent farmers from gaining necessary knowledge about disease prevention and make them economically vulnerable. These systematic constraints drive behaviours considered 'risky' for disease emergence and spread. As a result, many small- and medium-scale farmers in low- and middle-income countries remain trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty and ill health for both animals and humans. We conclude that, instead of focusing on individual behavioural change, interventions need to combine enhancing knowledge by individual farmers and tackling economic and structural constraints that limit their agency and ability to address practices that are considered risky.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Ebata
- Institute of Development Studies, Brighton BN1 9RE, United Kingdom.
| | - Hayley MacGregor
- Institute of Development Studies, Brighton BN1 9RE, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Khine Su Win
- Myanmar Oxford University Research Clinical Unit, Kokkine swimming pool lane, Yangon, Myanmar.
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21
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Health Risk Perception, Consumption Intention, and Willingness to Pay for Pig Products Obtained by Immunocastration. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091548. [PMID: 32883019 PMCID: PMC7552121 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Public awareness of farm animal welfare has gradually increased. It is well-known that some routine procedures in pig farming are detrimental to animal welfare, including surgical castration, especially without anaesthesia and/or analgesia. Some alternative techniques that offer welfare advantages over surgical castration can be implemented—immunocastration is among them. However, producers fear that consumers may be frightened by this technique and therefore they delay changes in the production system. This work aimed to understand whether Italian consumers perceive a health risk from the immunocastration technique and whether this perception is connected with their willingness to consume and to pay for products derived from immunocastrated animals. The results show that, within the Italian population, there are different levels of perceived health risk and that, as the perception of risk increases, the willingness to consume products obtained from immunocastrated animals decreases (and vice versa). The health risk perception by consumers also changes the willingness to pay for immunocastrated products. Particular attention must be paid to the information transmitted to the consumer if this technology will be widely adopted in pig husbandry. Abstract Surgical castration without the use of anaesthesia and/or analgesia is considered to be detrimental for the welfare of pigs and for this reason its abandonment is advocated. Immunocastration is a more welfare-friendly alternative method; however, stakeholders in the pork sector fear consumer rejection due to perceived safety issues of immunocastrated meat. This work aimed to analyse whether Italian consumers perceive a health risk arising from the use of this technique and, if so, how the perceived risk may influence the purchase choices and the willingness to pay for products derived from immunocastrated animals. To achieve this objective, a survey was carried out on a representative sample of the Italian population. The results highlight that consumers perceive different levels of risk related to the use of immunocastration and that this influences purchasing behaviour and willingness to pay. Moreover, it should be noted that the willingness to pay is also influenced by certain demographic factors, since this is positively associated with younger respondents with lower incomes and less knowledge of farming systems, who live in rural areas and have a greater sensitivity to animal welfare. Given the concerns expressed by consumers, particular attention must be paid to the information transmitted if this technology will be widely implemented in pig husbandry.
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Mwabonimana MF, King’ori AM, Inyagwa CM, Bebe BO. PORCINE CYSTICERCOSIS RISKS: AWARENESS, ATTITUDES AND PERCEPTIONS ON SAFETY PRACTICES AMONG FARMERS, BUTCHER-OWNERS AND CONSUMERS IN WESTERN KENYA. Afr J Infect Dis 2020; 14:16-22. [PMID: 33884346 PMCID: PMC8047289 DOI: 10.21010/ajid.v14i2.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The demand for pork is increasing in Africa with the increasing need for animal protein in the household diets. But pork safety and quality remains a pervasive concern that needs intervention to assure consumers of protection from Porcine Cysticercosis (PC) contamination. This study assessed among farmers, butcher-owners and consumers in Western Kenya about their awareness, attitudes and perceptions about safety practices regarding risk of PC. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data were obtained using structured questionnaires in cross-sectional survey interviews with 162 farmers, 26 butcher-owners and 92 consumers from Busia and Kakamega Counties. The data were in binary response, so were analyzed with Chi - square test. RESULTS Only two in ten farmers had knowledge of Taenia solium parasite (24.1%), risk factors in PC transmission (21.6%) and could associate pig management system with PC (17.3%). A larger proportion (p<0.01) of the butcher owners perceived pork from slaughter slabs (76.9%) and home slaughters (73.1%) as presenting high risks but considered pork from the butcheries (69.1%) and eateries (61.5%) as presenting no risks. Among the consumers, majority strongly agreed (p<0.05) that pork in the market (85.9%), from slaughter slabs (92.4%) and butchery (81.5%) was safe but a larger proportion strongly disagreed that pork from the eateries exposed them to cysticercosis (64.1%). CONCLUSION The awareness about risks of PC was low among farmers. Butcher-owners and consumers perceived pork safety differently along the value chain. Strengthening public education about PC risks and pork safety among all actors in the pork value chain in Western Kenya is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Françoise Mwabonimana
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Rwanda, P.O. Box 210, Musanze, Rwanda
| | - Anthony Macharia King’ori
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya
| | - Charles Muleke Inyagwa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536 – 20115, Egerton, Kenya
| | - Bockline Omedo Bebe
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536-20115, Egerton, Kenya
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23
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Hobbs EC, Mwape KE, Phiri AM, Mambwe M, Mambo R, Thys S, Zulu G, Chembensofu M, Trevisan C, Van Damme I, Phiri IK, Devleesschauwer B, Ketzis J, Dorny P, Willingham AL, Gabriël S. Perceptions and acceptability of piloted Taenia solium control and elimination interventions in two endemic communities in eastern Zambia. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 67 Suppl 2:69-81. [PMID: 31231968 PMCID: PMC7496623 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Infections with Taenia solium cause significant public health and economic losses worldwide. Despite effective control tools, long-term sustained control/elimination of the parasite has not been demonstrated to date. Success of intervention programs is dependent on their acceptability to local communities. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and questionnaires (QS) were conducted in two study communities in eastern Zambia to assess local perceptions and acceptance of two piloted intervention strategies: one targeting pigs only ('control' study arm), and one integrated human- and pig-based ('elimination') strategy. QS (n = 227) captured data regarding participation in project activities, knowledge and perceptions of T. solium and of the interventional drugs used in the study. FGDs (n = 18) discussed perceived advantages and disadvantages of the interventions and of the project's delivery and value. QS data revealed 67% of respondents participated in at least one educational activity, and 80% correctly identified at least one disease targeted by the education. All elimination study arm respondents (n = 113) had taken the human treatment, and 98% intended to do so next time. Most (70%) indicated willingness to pay for future treatments (median 0.20 USD per dose). Of pig-owning respondents, 11/12 (92%) had allowed their pigs to be treated/vaccinated and all intended to do so again next time. Four pig owners indicated willingness to pay 0.10-0.50 USD per dose of treatment or vaccine. FGD feedback revealed positive perceptions of interventions; people reported improved health in themselves and their pigs, and fewer cysticerci in pork. Latrine use, hand washing, meat inspection and proper cooking of pork had reportedly increased since the program's inception. Preliminary assessment indicates that the piloted intervention methods are generally acceptable to the communities. The reported willingness of many respondents to pay for the medications would contribute to the feasibility of long-term, government-led T. solium intervention programs in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Clare Hobbs
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary MedicineRoss University School of Veterinary MedicineSaint KittsWest Indies
- Institute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | | | - Andrew M. Phiri
- School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Moses Mambwe
- Ministry of HealthGovernment of the Republic of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Richard Mambo
- Ministry of HealthGovernment of the Republic of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | | | - Gideon Zulu
- Ministry of HealthGovernment of the Republic of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | | | | | - Inge Van Damme
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | | | | | - Jennifer Ketzis
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary MedicineRoss University School of Veterinary MedicineSaint KittsWest Indies
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Institute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Arve Lee Willingham
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary MedicineRoss University School of Veterinary MedicineSaint KittsWest Indies
| | - Sarah Gabriël
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
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24
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Chambaro HM, Sasaki M, Sinkala Y, Gonzalez G, Squarre D, Fandamu P, Lubaba C, Mataa L, Shawa M, Mwape KE, Gabriël S, Chembensofu M, Carr MJ, Hall WW, Qiu Y, Kajihara M, Takada A, Orba Y, Simulundu E, Sawa H. Evidence for exposure of asymptomatic domestic pigs to African swine fever virus during an inter-epidemic period in Zambia. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 67:2741-2752. [PMID: 32434281 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
African swine fever (ASF) causes persistent outbreaks in endemic and non-endemic regions in Zambia. However, the epidemiology of the disease is poorly understood, particularly during the inter-epidemic periods. We conducted surveillance for ASF in asymptomatic domestic pigs and soft ticks in selected Zambian provinces. While serum samples (n = 1,134) were collected from crossbred pigs from all study sites between 2014 and 2017, whole blood (n = 300) was collected from both crossbred and indigenous pigs in Eastern Province (EP) in 2017. Soft ticks were collected from Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Southern Province (SP) in 2019. Sera were screened for antibodies against ASF by ELISA while genome detection in whole blood and soft ticks was conducted by PCR. Ticks were identified morphologically and by phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene. Seroprevalence was highest in EP (50.9%, 95% CI [47.0-54.9]) compared to significantly lower rates in SP (2.9%, 95% CI [1.6-5.1]). No antibodies to ASFV were detected in Lusaka Province. In EP, the prevalence of ASFV genome was 11.7% (35/300), significantly higher (OR = 6.2, 95% CI [2.4-16.6]) in indigenous pigs compared to crossbred pigs. The pooled prevalence of ASFV genome in ticks was 11.0%, 95% CI [8.5-13.9]. Free-range husbandry system was the only factor that was significantly associated with seropositive (p < .0001, OR = 39.3) and PCR-positive results (p < .001, OR = 5.7). Phylogenetically, based on the p72 gene, ASFV from Ornithodoros moubata ticks detected in this study belonged to genotype I, but they separated into two distinct clusters. Besides confirming ASF endemicity in EP and the presence of ASFV-infected ticks in SP, these results provide evidence for exposure of domestic pigs to ASFV in non-endemic regions during the inter-epidemic period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herman M Chambaro
- Division of Molecular Pathobiology, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.,Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Lusaka, Zambia.,Virology Unit, Central Veterinary Research Institute, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Michihito Sasaki
- Division of Molecular Pathobiology, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yona Sinkala
- Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Gabriel Gonzalez
- Division of Bioinformatics, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - David Squarre
- Wildlife Veterinary Unit, Department of National Parks and Wildlife, Lusaka, Zambia.,Division of Collaboration and Education, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.,Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Paul Fandamu
- Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | | | - Misheck Shawa
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kabemba E Mwape
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Sarah Gabriël
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mwelwa Chembensofu
- Department of Paraclinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Michael J Carr
- Global Institution for Collaborative Research and Education (GI-CoRE), Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.,National Virus Reference Laboratory, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - William W Hall
- Global Institution for Collaborative Research and Education (GI-CoRE), Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.,National Virus Reference Laboratory, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.,Global Virus Network, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yongjin Qiu
- Hokudai Center for Zoonosis Control in Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Masahiro Kajihara
- Hokudai Center for Zoonosis Control in Zambia, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ayato Takada
- Global Institution for Collaborative Research and Education (GI-CoRE), Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.,Division of Global Epidemiology, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.,Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Yasuko Orba
- Division of Molecular Pathobiology, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Edgar Simulundu
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Hirofumi Sawa
- Division of Molecular Pathobiology, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.,Global Institution for Collaborative Research and Education (GI-CoRE), Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.,Global Virus Network, Baltimore, MD, USA
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25
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Ebata A, Hodge C, Braam D, Waldman L, Sharp J, MacGregor H, Moore H. Power, participation and their problems: A consideration of power dynamics in the use of participatory epidemiology for one health and zoonoses research. Prev Vet Med 2020; 177:104940. [PMID: 32244084 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.104940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The use of Participatory Epidemiology in veterinary research intends to include livestock keepers and other local stakeholders in research processes and the development of solutions to animal health problems, including potentially zoonotic diseases. It can also be an attempt to bring some of the methods and insights of social science into a discipline largely shaped by natural science methods and ways of seeing the world. The introduction of participatory methodologies to veterinary epidemiology and disease surveillance follows a wider movement in development thinking, questioning the top-down nature of much post-second world war development efforts directed from the Global North towards the Global South. In the best cases, participatory methods can help to empower the poor and marginalised to participate in and have some control over research and interventions which affect them. Compiled from experience in multi-disciplinary One Health projects, this paper briefly traces the rise of participatory epidemiology before examining some of the limitations observed in its implementation and steps that might be taken to alleviate the problems observed. The three areas in which the operationalisation of Participatory Epidemiology in veterinary and One Health research could be improved are identified as: broadening the focus of engagement with communities beyond quantitative data extraction; taking note of the wider power structures in which research takes place, and questioning who speaks for a community when participatory methods are used. In particular, the focus falls on how researchers from different disciplines, including veterinary medicine and the social sciences, can work together to ensure that participatory epidemiology is employed in such a way that it improves the quality of life of both people and animals around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Ebata
- Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London, Floor 7, Maple House 149, Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7NF, London, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Hodge
- Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London, Floor 7, Maple House 149, Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7NF, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Dorien Braam
- Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London, Floor 7, Maple House 149, Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7NF, London, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Waldman
- Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London, Floor 7, Maple House 149, Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7NF, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Sharp
- Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London, Floor 7, Maple House 149, Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7NF, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hayley MacGregor
- Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London, Floor 7, Maple House 149, Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7NF, London, United Kingdom
| | - Henrietta Moore
- Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London, Floor 7, Maple House 149, Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7NF, London, United Kingdom
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Smallholder pig farming education improved community knowledge and pig management in Angónia district, Mozambique. Trop Anim Health Prod 2019; 52:1447-1457. [PMID: 31758385 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-019-02148-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Education on pig farming has been recognized as an important method of transferring knowledge and improving production among smallholder pig producers in rural settings, but the effectiveness of this in different rural settings remains unknown. A community-based intervention trial on smallholder pig farmers was conducted with the aim of evaluating the effectiveness of pig farming education. Baseline information was collected using interview-based questionnaires and observations regarding pig welfare and husbandry practices followed by participatory pig farming education and field demonstrations. The study was carried out between May 2014 and May 2016 and involved 90 smallholder pig farmers from six villages in Angónia district, of Tete province in Mozambique. The baseline questionnaire among several aspects regarding pig management highlighted that most farmers had an overall knowledge on aspects of transmission (55.1%) and prevention (48.9%) of African swine fever (ASF), porcine cysticercosis (PC) transmission (8.2%), and field diagnosis (36.7%), and they were not aware of the zoonotic potential of PC or the basic husbandry procedures of pigs kept under permanent confinement. Forty-nine of the 90 farmers enrolled, participated in the pig farming education, which provided the basis for making a comparison between trained (54%) and non-trained (46%) pig farmers. Since knowledge for ASF transmission (P < 0.036), pig pen design (P < 0.014), reasons for confine the pigs (P < 0.016), as well as the adoption of the new introduced pig pen model (P < 0.025), and the practices of acceptable, good hygiene of the pig pen (P < 0.009 and P < 0.014, respectively), improved significantly in both groups, a remarkable spill-over was observed, proving villagers capable of transferring knowledge within the villages. However, water provision and total confinement in both groups were still not practiced by the most farmers following the pig farming education (P > 0.174 and 0.254). It is concluded that despite improved knowledge, the farmers failed to follow several recommendations, most likely due to poverty such as lack of basic resources like food and water, which even the farmers themselves lacked for their day to day living.
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Wolff C, Abigaba S, Sternberg Lewerin S. Ugandan cattle farmers' perceived needs of disease prevention and strategies to improve biosecurity. BMC Vet Res 2019; 15:208. [PMID: 31226988 PMCID: PMC6588948 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-019-1961-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infectious diseases are an important role obstacle to high productivity in Ugandan cattle production. General disease prevention is particularly important in low-income countries, where veterinary services and adequate treatment regimens for many infectious diseases are insufficient. Improved biosecurity could lead to improved animal health and production with lower mortality and better reproductive rates. Any sustainable biosecurity interventions must be feasible for the farmers, from a practical as well as social and cultural aspect. An understanding of the farmers’ view of biosecurity and the diseases it is intended to prevent is also needed. The aim of the study was to explore the perceived needs of Ugandan cattle farmers as regards disease prevention, tools and strategies for improved biosecurity, and to assess the feasibility of basic biosecurity practices, in order to contribute to long-term strategies for improved livestock management. We conducted two rounds of focus group (FG) discussions about infectious diseases and biosecurity with cattle farmers in the districts Kabarole, Kamwenge and Kasese in western Uganda. Results A thematic analysis revealed four organising themes: Disease prevention and biosecurity practices, Knowledge among farmers and other actors, Community and peer pressure and Services and infrastructure. From these four organising themes, a global theme of “Biosecurity is a common effort based on collective knowledge” could be derived. Diseases represent a loss of income and wealth for farmers. Lack of knowledge, training and education among farmers were seen as a challenge. While there were claims during the first round of FGs that many biosecurity measures would be impossible to practise, in all follow-up FGs at least someone had tried. Perceived barriers for implementing biosecurity were financial and cultural. Experiences that were shared were that practising biosecurity measures had made their cattle healthier, but it also incurred extra costs. Conclusion The perceived needs of farmers that emerged include knowledge, access to veterinary services, resources and community involvement for a broader implementation of basic biosecurity. There is potential for improved cattle production by educating farmers about infectious diseases and disease prevention measures. Such training should be participatory, involve communities and encourage participants to overcome practical and cultural obstacles. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12917-019-1961-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Wolff
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Salvatory Abigaba
- Department of Production, Kabarole District Local Government, P. O. Box 38, Fort Portal, Uganda
| | - Susanna Sternberg Lewerin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Gabriël S, Mwape K, Phiri I, Devleesschauwer B, Dorny P. Taenia solium control in Zambia: The potholed road to success. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2019; 4:e00082. [PMID: 30662967 PMCID: PMC6324015 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2018.e00082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The taeniosis/cysticercosis neglected zoonotic disease complex is caused by Taenia solium, and is associated with significant economic and public health impacts. This paper reviews the current knowledge on T. solium in Zambia and the control strategies already studied, covering almost 20 years of research, and explores the way forward. Studies on occurrence of porcine cysticercosis indicated very high prevalences, ranging from 15 to 34% based on detection of circulating antigens, and of 46% to 68% based on full carcass dissection in slaughter age pigs. Taeniosis prevalences have been reported to range from 6.3% to 12% based on copro-Ag-ELISA. Human cysticercosis prevalence results ranged from 5.8% to 13% based on serum Ag-ELISA, and from 34% to 39% based on sero-antibody detection. Later on, a study in people with epilepsy suggested neurocysticercosis to be the single most important cause of epilepsy in this T. solium endemic area, with 57% of the people with active epilepsy diagnosed with probable or definite neurocysticercosis. While the need to reduce the disease burden of T. solium in Zambia is obvious, the exact short and long term goals, and the strategies to achieve these goals, are not clear. We have selected the most promising control/elimination strategies from reviews and assessed these for feasibility via discussions with local stakeholders from both medical and veterinary sectors. The proposed measures were evaluated using the newly developed agent-based disease transmission model, cystiSim and optimised using Zambian demographic and disease data. As a control option, yearly porcine treatments were selected as best option, while the preferred strategy for elimination was determined to be the combination of human and porcine mass drug administration combined with porcine vaccination of all eligible people and pigs, in a schedule of six iterations of four monthly interventions. These interventions are currently being field tested, combined with education. Several other hurdles to control, such as cost and socio-political factors and the need for an improved advocacy and awareness creation are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Gabriël
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - K.E. Mwape
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - I.K. Phiri
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - B. Devleesschauwer
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - P. Dorny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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29
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Thys S, Sahibi H, Gabriël S, Rahali T, Lefèvre P, Rhalem A, Marcotty T, Boelaert M, Dorny P. Community perception and knowledge of cystic echinococcosis in the High Atlas Mountains, Morocco. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:118. [PMID: 30691432 PMCID: PMC6350308 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-6372-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cystic echinococcosis (CE), a neglected zoonosis caused by the larval stage of the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus, remains a public health issue in many developing countries that practice extensive sheep breeding. Control of CE is difficult and requires a community-based integrated approach. We assessed the communities’ knowledge and perception of CE, its animal hosts, and its control in a CE endemic area of the High Atlas Mountains, Morocco. Methods We conducted twenty focus group discussions (FGDs) stratified by gender with villagers, butchers and students in ten Berber villages that were purposefully selected for their CE prevalence. Results This community considers CE to be a severe and relatively common disease in humans and animals but has a poor understanding of the parasite’s life cycle. Risk behaviour and disabling factors for disease control are mainly related to cultural practices in sheep breeding and home slaughtering, dog keeping, and offal disposal at home, as well as in slaughterhouses. Participants in our focus group discussions were supportive of control measures as management of canine populations, waste disposal, and monitoring of slaughterhouses. Conclusions The uncontrolled stray dog population and dogs having access to offal (both at village dumps and slaughterhouses) suggest that authorities should be more closely involved in CE control. This study also highlights the need for improved knowledge about the transmission cycle of the parasite among communities and health professionals. Inter-sectoral collaboration between health staff, veterinarians, and social scientists appears to be crucial for sustainable control of this parasitic zoonosis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-018-6372-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Séverine Thys
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium. .,Department of Virology, Parasitology, and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Hamid Sahibi
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Public Health, Agro-Veterinary Institute Hassan II (IAV), Madinat Al Irfane. BP 6202-Instituts, 10101, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Sarah Gabriël
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Tarik Rahali
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences of Rabat, University Mohamed V, 4 Avenue Ibn Battouta, B.P. 1014, Rabat, RP, Morocco
| | | | - Abdelkbir Rhalem
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Public Health, Agro-Veterinary Institute Hassan II (IAV), Madinat Al Irfane. BP 6202-Instituts, 10101, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Tanguy Marcotty
- Faculty of Science, University of Namur, Rue de Bruxelles 61, 5000, Namur, Belgium
| | - Marleen Boelaert
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Virology, Parasitology, and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
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de Coster T, Van Damme I, Baauw J, Gabriël S. Recent advancements in the control of Taenia solium: A systematic review. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2018; 13:e00030. [PMID: 32095601 PMCID: PMC7034013 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2018.e00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The combined health and economic impact of Taenia solium urges for control and, if possible, elimination of this neglected parasitic zoonosis. Up till now there is still no consensus about the most cost-effective and feasible approaches for control. The objective of this systematic review is to identify and summarize the evidence in English scientific literature on the control and elimination of T. solium since 2014, based on the rapidly evolving field of evidence on control and elimination of T. solium. The search resulted in the identification of 458 records of which 31 were included, covering 13 field trials and 18 articles containing experimental data, mathematical models, and other information directly relevant the control of T. solium. Recent field studies confirm that combinations of interventions or multiple rounds are more successful in obtaining rapid reductions in transmission and parasite occurrence, with the quick impact of the combination of human and pig treatment confirmed in a South Asian and Peruvian context. Moreover, elimination of transmission through a one-year intensive program, combining human and pig treatment/vaccination was described in a Peruvian study. Recent studies also provide more data on the positive impact of specific health education, as well as newly developed electronic educational tools, providing opportunities for area specific community-engaged participatory interventions. Once control has been achieved, monitoring of migration of both potentially infected people and pigs from outside the control area is important for sustained disease control. Combined intervention field studies demonstrate sharp decreases in disease occurrence. New, specific, efficient, electronic educational tools are available. Elimination of Taenia solium in a Peruvian endemic area has been described. Integration of Taenia solium control in other NTD control programs can be effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- T de Coster
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - I Van Damme
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - J Baauw
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - S Gabriël
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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MacGregor H, Waldman L. Views from many worlds: unsettling categories in interdisciplinary research on endemic zoonotic diseases. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2018; 372:rstb.2016.0170. [PMID: 28584178 PMCID: PMC5468695 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Interdisciplinary research on zoonotic disease has tended to focus on ‘risk’ of disease transmission as a conceptual common denominator. With reference to endemic zoonoses at the livestock–human interface, we argue for considering a broader sweep of disciplinary insights from anthropology and other social sciences in interdisciplinary dialogue, in particular cross-cultural perspectives on human–animal engagement. We consider diverse worldviews where human–animal encounters are perceived of in terms of the kinds of social relations they generate, and the notion of culture is extended to the ‘natural’ world. This has implications for how animals are valued, treated and prioritized. Thinking differently with and about animals and about species' boundaries could enable ways of addressing zoonotic diseases which have closer integration with people's own cultural norms. If we can bring this kind of knowledge into One Health debates, we find ourselves with a multiplicity of worldviews, where bounded categories such as human:animal and nature:culture cannot be assumed. This might in turn influence our scientific ways of seeing our own disciplinary cultures, and generate novel ways of understanding zoonoses and constructing solutions. This article is part of the themed issue ‘One Health for a changing world: zoonoses, ecosystems and human well-being’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley MacGregor
- STEPS Centre, Institute for Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9RE, UK
| | - Linda Waldman
- STEPS Centre, Institute for Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9RE, UK
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Hobbs EC, Mwape KE, Van Damme I, Berkvens D, Zulu G, Mambwe M, Chembensofu M, Phiri IK, Masuku M, Bottieau E, Devleesschauwer B, Speybroeck N, Colston A, Dorny P, Willingham AL, Gabriël S. Preliminary assessment of the computer-based Taenia solium educational program 'The Vicious Worm' on knowledge uptake in primary school students in rural areas in eastern Zambia. Trop Med Int Health 2018; 23:306-314. [PMID: 29314480 PMCID: PMC5888122 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The zoonotic helminth Taenia solium is endemic in Zambia, causing human (taeniasis and (neuro)cysticercosis) and pig (porcine cysticercosis) diseases with high health, social and economic burdens. We aimed to evaluate the impact of a health educational program intended to lead to powerful and cumulative improvements in knowledge, attitudes and practices that decrease parasite transmission and disease occurrence. METHODS Half-day health education workshops were conducted in three primary schools in the highly endemic Eastern Province of Zambia, using the computer-based T. solium educational program 'The Vicious Worm'. Questionnaires were administered before and after the educational component to determine the program's impact on knowledge uptake in primary school students. RESULTS In total, 99 students participated: 38 males and 61 females, with a median age of 14 years (range 10-18 years). Baseline general knowledge of T. solium, including awareness of the different human and pig disease states, and disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention, was quite high (average score 62%) and consistent across all three study areas. Participants' knowledge had significantly increased after the educational component, particularly regarding parasite transmission and disease prevention. CONCLUSION Preliminary assessment of 'The Vicious Worm' indicates it is an effective tool for the short-term T. solium education of primary school students in Zambia. Follow-up studies are planned to assess the longer term impact of the program on knowledge uptake in the study neighbourhoods. Inclusion of tailored 'The Vicious Worm' educational workshops should be considered in integrated cysticercosis control programs in endemic areas of sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma C. Hobbs
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary MedicineRoss University School of Veterinary MedicineBasseterreSt Kitts, West Indies
- Institute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | | | - Inge Van Damme
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | | | - Gideon Zulu
- Ministry of HealthGovernment of the Republic of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Moses Mambwe
- Ministry of HealthGovernment of the Republic of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | | | | | - Maxwell Masuku
- School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | | | | | - Niko Speybroeck
- Institute of Health and SocietyUniversité Catholique de LouvainBrusselsBelgium
| | - Angela Colston
- Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed)NairobiKenya
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Institute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Arve Lee Willingham
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary MedicineRoss University School of Veterinary MedicineBasseterreSt Kitts, West Indies
| | - Sarah Gabriël
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
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Kungu JM, Dione MM, Ejobi F, Ocaido M, Grace D. Risk factors, perceptions and practices associated with Taenia solium cysticercosis and its control in the smallholder pig production systems in Uganda: a cross-sectional survey. BMC Infect Dis 2017; 17:1. [PMID: 28049444 PMCID: PMC5209818 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-2122-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevalence studies report Taenia solium cysticercosis in pig and human populations in Uganda. However, the factors influencing occurrence in smallholder pig production systems are not well documented and little is known about farmers' perceptions of T. solium cysticercosis or farmer practices that could reduce transmission. METHODS To determine the risk factors, perceptions and practices regarding T. solium cysticercosis, a household survey using a semi-structured questionnaire was conducted in 1185 households in the rural and urban pig production systems in Masaka, Mukono and Kamuli Districts. Logistic regression was used to measure associations of risk factors with infection. Performance scores were calculated to summarise perceptions and practices of farmers regarding taeniosis, human cysticercosis and porcine cysticercosis as well as farmer behavior related to control or breaking transmission. RESULTS Pig breed type, farmers' knowledge about transmission, sources of water used, and pig keeping homes where family members were unable to use the latrine were all significantly associated with T. solium cysticercosis in pigs. Performance scores indicated that farmers were more aware of taeniosis (63.0%; 95% Confidence Interval 60.0-65.8) than human or porcine cysticercosis; only three farmers (0.3%, 95% CI = 0.1-0.8) had knowledge on all three conditions. More farmers reported that they dewormed pigs (94.1%) than reported deworming themselves and their family members (62.0%). Albendazole was the most commonly used drug for deworming both pigs and humans (85.0 and 81.5% respectively). Just over half (54.6%) of the farmers interviewed had clean water near the latrines for washing hands. Of these, only 41.9% used water with soap to wash hands after latrine use. CONCLUSION Factors that significantly influenced occurrence of T. solium cysticercosis in pigs were identified. Farmers had some knowledge about the disease but did not link taeniosis, human cysticercosis, and porcine cysticercosis. Therefore, there is need to employ strategies that raise awareness and interrupt transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M. Kungu
- National Livestock Resources Research Institute, P. O. Box 96, Tororo, Uganda
- College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, P. O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
- International Livestock Research Institute, P.O. Box 24384, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michel M. Dione
- International Livestock Research Institute, P.O. Box 24384, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Francis Ejobi
- College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, P. O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michael Ocaido
- College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, P. O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Delia Grace
- International Livestock Research Institute, P.O. Box 30709, Nairobi, Kenya
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