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Friant S. Human behaviors driving disease emergence. Evol Anthropol 2024; 33:e22015. [PMID: 38130075 DOI: 10.1002/evan.22015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Interactions between humans, animals, and the environment facilitate zoonotic spillover-the transmission of pathogens from animals to humans. Narratives that cast modern humans as exogenous and disruptive forces that encroach upon "natural" disease systems limit our understanding of human drivers of disease. This review leverages theory from evolutionary anthropology that situates humans as functional components of disease ecologies, to argue that human adaptive strategies to resource acquisition shape predictable patterns of high-risk human-animal interactions, (2) humans construct ecological processes that facilitate spillover, and (3) contemporary patterns of epidemiological risk are emergent properties of interactions between human foraging ecology and niche construction. In turn, disease ecology serves as an important vehicle to link what some cast as opposing bodies of theory in human ecology. Disease control measures should consider human drivers of disease as rational, adaptive, and dynamic and capitalize on our capacity to influence ecological processes to mitigate risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagan Friant
- Department of Anthropology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
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2
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Urcuqui-Bustamante AM, Leahy JE, Sponarski C, Gardner AM. Collaborative Modeling of the Tick-Borne Disease Social-Ecological System: A Conceptual Framework. ECOHEALTH 2023; 20:453-467. [PMID: 38214874 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-023-01669-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Hard-bodied ticks have become a major concern in temperate regions because they transmit a variety of pathogens of medical significance. Ticks and pathogens interact with hosts in a complex social-ecological system (SES) that influences human exposure to tick-borne diseases (TBD). We argue that addressing the urgent public health threat posed by TBD requires an understanding of the integrated processes in the forest ecosystem that influence tick density and infection prevalence, transmission among ticks, animal hosts, and ultimately disease prevalence in humans. We argue that collaborative modeling of the human-tick SES is required to understand the system dynamics as well as move science toward policy action. Recent studies in human health have shown the importance of stakeholder participation in understanding the factors that contribute to human exposure to zoonotic diseases. We discuss how collaborative modeling can be applied to understand the impacts of forest management practices on ticks and TBD. We discuss the potential of collaborative modeling for encouraging participation of diverse stakeholders in discussing the implications of managing forest ticks in the absence of large-scale control policy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica E Leahy
- School of Forest Resources, University of Maine, 105 Nutting Hall, Orono, ME, USA
| | - Carly Sponarski
- Northern Forestry Centre, Canadian Forest Service, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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3
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Grant C, Sams K. Global narratives on unequal outcomes produced by lockdown in Africa: A social science perspective on the “one-size-fits all” COVID-19 response. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1046404. [PMID: 37064673 PMCID: PMC10095145 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1046404] [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: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionLockdown measures were introduced worldwide to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and several studies showed the positive impacts of these policies in places such as China and Europe. Many African governments also imposed lockdowns at the beginning of the pandemic. These lockdowns met with mixed reactions; some were positive, but others focused on concerns about the consequences of lockdowns.MethodsIn this article, we use social listening to examine social media narratives to investigate how people balanced concerns about preventing the spread of COVID-19 with other priorities. Analyzing social media conversations is one way of accessing different voices in real time, including those that often go unheard. As internet access grows and social media becomes more popular in Africa, it provides a different space for engagement, allowing people to connect with opinions outside of their own conceptual frameworks and disrupting hierarchies of how knowledge is shaped.ResultsThis article indicates which narratives were favored by different organizations, stakeholders, and the general public, and which of these narratives are most dominant in policy discourses. The range of narratives is found to be reflective of the blindness to inequality and social difference of much decision-making by policymakers.DiscussionThus, contrary to the “we are all in this together” narrative, diseases and public health responses to them clearly discriminate, accentuating long-standing structural inequalities locally, nationally, and globally, as well as interplaying with multiple, dynamic, and negotiated sources of marginalization. These and other insights from this article could play a useful role in understanding and interpreting how social media could be included in pandemic preparedness plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Grant
- Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Catherine Grant
| | - Kelley Sams
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, France and School of Health Sciences, Walden University, Columbia, MD, United States
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Grant DS, Engel EJ, Roberts Yerkes N, Kanneh L, Koninga J, Gbakie MA, Alhasan F, Kanneh FB, Kanneh IM, Kamara FK, Momoh M, Yillah MS, Foday M, Okoli A, Zeoli A, Weldon C, Bishop CM, Zheng C, Hartnett J, Chao K, Shore K, Melnik LI, Mucci M, Bond NG, Doyle P, Yenni R, Podgorski R, Ficenec SC, Moses L, Shaffer JG, Garry RF, Schieffelin JS. Seroprevalence of anti-Lassa Virus IgG antibodies in three districts of Sierra Leone: A cross-sectional, population-based study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0010938. [PMID: 36758101 PMCID: PMC9946222 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lassa virus (LASV), the cause of the acute viral hemorrhagic illness Lassa fever (LF), is endemic in West Africa. Infections in humans occur mainly after exposure to infected excrement or urine of the rodent-host, Mastomys natalensis. The prevalence of exposure to LASV in Sierra Leone is crudely estimated and largely unknown. This cross-sectional study aimed to establish a baseline point seroprevalence of IgG antibodies to LASV in three administrative districts of Sierra Leone and identify potential risk factors for seropositivity and LASV exposure. METHODOLOGY AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Between 2015 and 2018, over 10,642 participants from Kenema, Tonkolili, and Port Loko Districts were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Previous LASV and LF epidemiological studies support classification of these districts as "endemic," "emerging," and "non-endemic", respectively. Dried blood spot samples were tested for LASV antibodies by ELISA to determine the seropositivity of participants, indicating previous exposure to LASV. Surveys were administered to each participant to assess demographic and environmental factors associated with a higher risk of exposure to LASV. Overall seroprevalence for antibodies to LASV was 16.0%. In Kenema, Port Loko, and Tonkolili Districts, seroprevalences were 20.1%, 14.1%, and 10.6%, respectively. In a multivariate analysis, individuals were more likely to be LASV seropositive if they were living in Kenema District, regardless of sex, age, or occupation. Environmental factors contributed to an increased risk of LASV exposure, including poor housing construction and proximity to bushland, forested areas, and refuse. CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE In this study we determine a baseline LASV seroprevalence in three districts which will inform future epidemiological, ecological, and clinical studies on LF and the LASV in Sierra Leone. The heterogeneity of the distribution of LASV and LF over both space, and time, can make the design of efficacy trials and intervention programs difficult. Having more studies on the prevalence of LASV and identifying potential hyper-endemic areas will greatly increase the awareness of LF and improve targeted control programs related to LASV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald S. Grant
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Emily J. Engel
- Department of Pediatrics, Sections of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Nicole Roberts Yerkes
- Department of Pediatrics, Sections of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Lansana Kanneh
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - James Koninga
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Michael A. Gbakie
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Foday Alhasan
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Franklyn B. Kanneh
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Ibrahim Mustapha Kanneh
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Fatima K. Kamara
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Mambu Momoh
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
- Eastern Technical University of Sierra Leone, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Mohamed S. Yillah
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Momoh Foday
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Adaora Okoli
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Ashley Zeoli
- Department of Pediatrics, Sections of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Caroline Weldon
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Christopher M. Bishop
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Crystal Zheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Jessica Hartnett
- Department of Pediatrics, Sections of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Karissa Chao
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Kayla Shore
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Lilia I. Melnik
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Mallory Mucci
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Nell G. Bond
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Philip Doyle
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Rachael Yenni
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Rachel Podgorski
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Samuel C. Ficenec
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Lina Moses
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey G. Shaffer
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Robert F. Garry
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - John S. Schieffelin
- Department of Pediatrics, Sections of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
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Marshall GC, Skeva R, Jay C, Silva MEP, Fyles M, House T, Davis EL, Pi L, Medley GF, Quilty BJ, Dyson L, Yardley L, Fearon E. Public perceptions and interactions with UK COVID-19 Test, Trace and Isolate policies, and implications for pandemic infectious disease modelling. F1000Res 2022. [DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.124627.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The efforts to contain SARS-CoV-2 and reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have been supported by Test, Trace and Isolate (TTI) systems in many settings, including the United Kingdom. Mathematical models of transmission and TTI interventions, used to inform design and policy choices, make assumptions about the public’s behaviour in the context of a rapidly unfolding and changeable emergency. This study investigates public perceptions and interactions with UK TTI policy in July 2021, assesses them against how TTI processes are conceptualised and represented in models, and then interprets the findings with modellers who have been contributing evidence to TTI policy. Methods 20 members of the public recruited via social media were interviewed for one hour about their perceptions and interactions with the UK TTI system. Thematic analysis identified key themes, which were then presented back to a workshop of pandemic infectious disease modellers who assessed these findings against assumptions made in TTI intervention modelling. Workshop members co-drafted this report. Results Themes included education about SARS-CoV-2, perceived risks, trust, mental health and practical concerns. Findings covered testing practices, including the uses of and trust in different types of testing, and the challenges of testing and isolating faced by different demographic groups. This information was judged as consequential to the modelling process, from guiding the selection of research questions, influencing choice of model structure, informing parameter ranges and validating or challenging assumptions, to highlighting where model assumptions are reasonable or where their poor reflection of practice might lead to uninformative results. Conclusions We conclude that deeper engagement with members of the public should be integrated at regular stages of public health intervention modelling.
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Smith AEO, Ruston A, Doidge C, Lovatt F, Kaler J. Putting sheep scab in its place: A more relational approach. Prev Vet Med 2022; 206:105711. [PMID: 35841740 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2022.105711] [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: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Since the reintroduction of sheep scab within the UK, its prevalence has increased despite several industry-led initiatives to control and manage the disease. Some studies have suggested that initiatives or policies should instead focus on specific places, such as geographically high-risk areas for sheep scab, which could allow for a more targeted approach. However, this risk of sheep scab has been measured in set geographical areas, without the reference to the interplay of topography, host, pathogen and the way in which humans socially and culturally define risk and place, potentially limiting the effectiveness of preventative initiatives. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to understand how place influences sheep farmers' approaches to the identification and management of the risk of sheep scab in their flocks. Qualitative data was collected from 43 semi-structured interviews with sheep farmers from England, Scotland, and Wales and was analysed by using the constant comparative approach. The codes were grouped into four concepts that influenced farmers' decision-making strategies for sheep scab control: perception of place; risk identification; risk categorisation; and risk management. These concepts were used as an analytical framework to identify three different 'places': 'uncontrollable places', 'liminal places' and 'protective places'. Each place reflects a different sheep scab control strategy used by farmers and shaped by their perceptions of place and risk. The 'uncontrollable places' category represented farmers who were located in areas that were geographically high-risk for sheep scab and who experienced a high frequency of sheep scab infestations in their flocks. The risk posed by their local landscape and neighbouring farmers, who neglected to engage in preventative behaviours, led them to feel unable to engage in effective risk management. Thus, they viewed scab as uncontrollable. The farmers within the 'liminal places' category were characterised as farmers who were located in high-risk areas for sheep scab, but experienced low levels of sheep scab infestations. These farmers characterised the risks associated with sheep scab management in terms of needing to protect their reputation and felt more responsibility for controlling sheep scab, which influenced them to engage in more protective measures. The farmers within the 'protective places' category were characterised as farming within low-risk areas and thus experienced a low level of sheep scab infestations. These farmers also described their risk in terms of their reputation and the responsibility they held for protecting others. However, they sought to rely on their low geographical risk of sheep scab as a main source of protection and therefore did not always engage in protective measures. These results suggest that place-based effects have significant impacts on sheep farmers' beliefs and behaviours and thus should be considered by policymakers when developing future strategies for sheep scab control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice E O Smith
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK.
| | - Annmarie Ruston
- Faculty of Medicine Health and Social Care, Canterbury Christ Church University, North Holmes Road, Canterbury CT1 1QU, UK.
| | - Charlotte Doidge
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK.
| | - Fiona Lovatt
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK.
| | - Jasmeet Kaler
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK.
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Asaaga FA, Young JC, Srinivas PN, Seshadri T, Oommen MA, Rahman M, Kiran SK, Kasabi GS, Narayanaswamy D, Schäfer SM, Burthe SJ, August T, Logie M, Chanda MM, Hoti SL, Vanak AT, Purse BV. Co-production of knowledge as part of a OneHealth approach to better control zoonotic diseases. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000075. [PMID: 36962247 PMCID: PMC10021618 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
There is increased global and national attention on the need for effective strategies to control zoonotic diseases. Quick, effective action is, however, hampered by poor evidence-bases and limited coordination between stakeholders from relevant sectors such as public and animal health, wildlife and forestry sectors at different scales, who may not usually work together. The OneHealth approach recognises the value of cross-sectoral evaluation of human, animal and environmental health questions in an integrated, holistic and transdisciplinary manner to reduce disease impacts and/or mitigate risks. Co-production of knowledge is also widely advocated to improve the quality and acceptability of decision-making across sectors and may be particularly important when it comes to zoonoses. This paper brings together OneHealth and knowledge co-production and reflects on lessons learned for future OneHealth co-production processes by describing a process implemented to understand spill-over and identify disease control and mitigation strategies for a zoonotic disease in Southern India (Kyasanur Forest Disease). The co-production process aimed to develop a joint decision-support tool with stakeholders, and we complemented our approach with a simple retrospective theory of change on researcher expectations of the system-level outcomes of the co-production process. Our results highlight that while co-production in OneHealth is a difficult and resource intensive process, requiring regular iterative adjustments and flexibility, the beneficial outcomes justify its adoption. A key future aim should be to improve and evaluate the degree of inter-sectoral collaboration required to achieve the aims of OneHealth. We conclude by providing guidelines based on our experience to help funders and decision-makers support future co-production processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juliette C. Young
- Agroécologie, INRAE, Institut Agro, Univ. Bourgogne, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté Dijon, France
| | | | - Tanya Seshadri
- Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, Bengaluru, India
- Tribal Health Resource Center, Vivekananda Girijana Kalyana Kendra BR Hills, Bengaluru, India
| | - Meera A. Oommen
- Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, Bengaluru, India
| | - Mujeeb Rahman
- Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, Bengaluru, India
| | - Shivani K. Kiran
- Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, Government of Karnataka, Shivamogga, India
| | - Gudadappa S. Kasabi
- Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, Government of Karnataka, Shivamogga, India
| | - Darshan Narayanaswamy
- Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, Government of Karnataka, Shivamogga, India
- ICMR-National Institute for Traditional Medicine, Belgavi, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Sarah J. Burthe
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Tom August
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Wallingford, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Logie
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Wallingford, United Kingdom
| | - Mudassar M. Chanda
- ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Ramagondanahalli, Yelahanka New Town, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Abi T. Vanak
- Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, Bengaluru, India
- DBT/Wellcome Trust India Alliance, Hyderabad, India
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Bethan V. Purse
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Wallingford, United Kingdom
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Adams S, Rhodes T, Lancaster K. New directions for participatory modelling in health: Redistributing expertise in relation to localised matters of concern. Glob Public Health 2021; 17:1827-1841. [PMID: 34775919 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.1998575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Participatory modelling seeks to foster stakeholder engagement to better attune models to their decision-making and policy contexts. Such approaches are increasingly advocated for use in the field of health. We review the instrumental and epistemological claims made in support of participatory modelling approaches. These accentuate participatory models as offering a better evidence-base for health policy decisions. By drawing attention to recent modelling experiments in a sector outside of health, that of water management, we outline a different way of thinking about participation and modelling. Here, the participatory model is configured in relation to matters of 'knowledge controversy', with modelling constituted as an 'evidence-making intervention' in relation to the making of science and expertise. Rather than presenting participatory models as an improved technical solution to addressing given policy problems within an evidence-based intervention approach, models are alternatively potentiated as sites for the redistribution of expertise among actor networks as they seek to engage politically in a matter of concern. This leads us to consider possible new directions for participatory modelling in the field of health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Adams
- School of Humanities and Languages, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tim Rhodes
- School of Humanities and Languages, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kari Lancaster
- School of Humanities and Languages, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Adamchick J, Pérez Aguirreburualde MS, Perez AM, O'Brien MK. One Coin, Two Sides: Eliciting Expert Knowledge From Training Participants in a Capacity-Building Program for Veterinary Professionals. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:729159. [PMID: 34760954 PMCID: PMC8573137 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.729159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Scientific research may include the elicitation of judgment from non-academic subject-matter experts in order to improve the quality and/or impact of research studies. Elicitation of expert knowledge or judgment is used when data are missing, incomplete, or not representative for the specific setting and processes being studied. Rigorous methods are crucial to ensure robust study results, and yet the quality of the elicitation can be affected by a number of practical constraints, including the understanding that subject-matter experts have of the elicitation process itself. In this paper, we present a case of expert elicitation embedded within an extended training course for veterinary professionals as an example of overcoming these constraints. The coupling of the two activities enabled extended opportunities for training and a relationship of mutual respect to be the foundation for the elicitation process. In addition, the participatory research activities reinforced knowledge synthesis objectives of the educational program. Finally, the synergy between the two concurrent objectives may produce benefits which transcend either independent activity: solutions and ideas built by local professionals, evolving collaborative research and training approaches, and a network of diverse academic and practicing professionals. This approach has the versatility to be adapted to many training and research opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Adamchick
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
| | - María Sol Pérez Aguirreburualde
- Center for Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
| | - Andres M. Perez
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
| | - Mary Katherine O'Brien
- Center for Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
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Adamchick J, Rich KM, Perez AM. Self-Reporting of Risk Pathways and Parameter Values for Foot-and-Mouth Disease in Slaughter Cattle from Alternative Production Systems by Kenyan and Ugandan Veterinarians. Viruses 2021; 13:v13112112. [PMID: 34834919 PMCID: PMC8621966 DOI: 10.3390/v13112112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Countries in which foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is endemic may face bans on the export of FMD-susceptible livestock and products because of the associated risk for transmission of FMD virus. Risk assessment is an essential tool for demonstrating the fitness of one’s goods for the international marketplace and for improving animal health. However, it is difficult to obtain the necessary data for such risk assessments in many countries where FMD is present. This study bridged the gaps of traditional participatory and expert elicitation approaches by partnering with veterinarians from the National Veterinary Services of Kenya (n = 13) and Uganda (n = 10) enrolled in an extended capacity-building program to systematically collect rich, local knowledge in a format appropriate for formal quantitative analysis. Participants mapped risk pathways and quantified variables that determine the risk of infection among cattle at slaughter originating from each of four beef production systems in each country. Findings highlighted that risk processes differ between management systems, that disease and sale are not always independent events, and that events on the risk pathway are influenced by the actions and motivations of value chain actors. The results provide necessary information for evaluating the risk of FMD among cattle pre-harvest in Kenya and Uganda and provide a framework for similar evaluation in other endemic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Adamchick
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55108, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Karl M. Rich
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ferguson College of Agriculture, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA;
| | - Andres M. Perez
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55108, USA;
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11
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Gibb R, Franklinos LHV, Redding DW, Jones KE. Ecosystem perspectives are needed to manage zoonotic risks in a changing climate. BMJ 2020; 371:m3389. [PMID: 33187958 PMCID: PMC7662085 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.m3389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rory Gibb
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lydia H V Franklinos
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, UK
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - David W Redding
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, UK
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, London, UK
| | - Kate E Jones
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, UK
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, London, UK
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Tauheed AM, Mamman M, Ahmed A, Suleiman MM, Balogun EO. In vitro and in vivo antitrypanosomal efficacy of combination therapy of Anogeissus leiocarpus, Khaya senegalensis and potash. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 258:112805. [PMID: 32243988 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Pastoralists in Nigeria mix barks of Anogeissus leiocarpus (AL) Khaya senegalensis (KS) and potash (Pt) to treat animal African trypanosomosis. AIM To evaluate antitrypanosomal potential of A. leiocarpus, K. senegalensis and potash for insights into the traditional claim of antitrypanosomal combination therapy (ATCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty microliter each of six different concentrations of AL, KS, Pt, AL + KS, AL + KS + Pt and diminazene aceturate (DA, positive control) was incubated with 50 μL of parasite-laden blood containing 108Trypanosoma congolense cells in a 96-well microtitre plate. Negative control wells were devoid of the extracts and drug but supplemented with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). Efficacy of treatment was observed at 1 h interval for complete immobilisation or reduced motility of the parasites. Each incubated mixture was inoculated into mouse at the point of complete immobilisation of parasite motility or at the end of 6-h observation period for concentrations that did not immobilise the parasites completely. For in vivo assessment, thirty-five parasitaemic rats were randomly allocated into seven groups of 5 rats each. Each rat in groups I-V was treated with 500 mg/kg of AL, KS, Pt, AL + KS and AL + KS + Pt, respectively, for 7 days. Rats in groups VI and VII were treated with diminazene aceturate 3.5 mg/kg once and PBS 2 mL/kg (7 days), which served as positive and negative controls, respectively. Daily monitoring of parasitaemia through the tail vein, packed cell volume and malondialdehyde were used to assess efficacy of the treatments. RESULTS The AL + KS + Pt group significantly (p < 0.05) and dose-dependently reduced parasite motility and completely immobilized the parasites at 10, 5 and 2.5 μg/μL with an IC50 of 9.1×10-4 µg/µL. All the mice with conditions that produced complete cessation of parasite motility did not develop parasitaemia within one month of observation. The AL + KS group significantly (p < 0.05) lowered the level of parasitaemia and MDA, and significantly (p < 0.05) maintained higher PCV than PBS group. CONCLUSION The combination of A. leiocarpus and K. senegalensis showed better antitrypanosomal effects than single drug treatment and offers prospects for ATCT. Our findings support ethnopharmacological use of combined barks of A. leiocarpus and K. senegalensis by pastoralist in the treatment of animal African trypanosomosis in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah M Tauheed
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
| | - Mohammed Mamman
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
| | - Abubakar Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Drug Development, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
| | - Mohammed M Suleiman
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria; College of Agriculture and Animal Science, Mando, Ahmadu Bello University, Kaduna State, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel O Balogun
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, United States of America
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Assessing the Impact of Optimal Health Education Programs on the Control of Zoonotic Diseases. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2020; 2020:6584323. [PMID: 32733595 PMCID: PMC7369659 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6584323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
To better understand the dynamics of zoonotic diseases, we propose a deterministic mathematical model to study the dynamics of zoonotic brucellosis with a focus on developing countries. The model contains all the relevant biological details, including indirect transmission by the environment. We analyze the essential dynamic behavior of the model and perform an optimal control study to design effective prevention and intervention strategies. The sensitivity analysis of the model parameters is performed. The aim of the controls is tied to reducing the number of infected humans, through health promotional programs within the affected communities. The Pontryagin's Maximum Principle is used to characterize the optimal level of the controls, and the resulting optimality system is solved numerically. Overall, the study demonstrates that through health promotional programs on zoonotic diseases among villagers, it is vital that they should be conducted with high efficacy.
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14
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Abdullahi IN, Anka AU, Ghamba PE, Onukegbe NB, Amadu DO, Salami MO. Need for preventive and control measures for Lassa fever through the One Health strategic approach. PROCEEDINGS OF SINGAPORE HEALTHCARE 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/2010105820932616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Lassa virus (LASV) has increasingly been recognised as a significant public-health pathogen transmitted by rodents. LASV infection leads to life-threatening Lassa fever, which has high potential for severe morbidity and mortality. There have been several scientific efforts to understand the genomics and ecological epidemiology of Lassa. However, very limited studies have focused on the short- and long-term impacts of environmental factors, human behaviours and rodent activities on LASV transmission dynamics and control. Recently, a very plausible and ideal way to address the Lassa epidemic has been considered through the One Health approach. The One Health system of intervention is capable of providing better and comprehensive information necessary to address the complex interplay between human, ecological, and environmental determinants of LASV transmission, persistence and re-emergence. Thus, the aim of this article was to review critically the impacts of various environmental factors on rodent infestations, LASV transmission and how human activities contribute to the persistence of Lassa with regard to exploring how they could be harnessed for better understanding of Lassa prevention and control through a concerted One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idris Nasir Abdullahi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria
| | - Abubakar Umar Anka
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria
| | - Peter Elisha Ghamba
- WHO National Polio Reference Laboratory, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
| | | | - Dele Ohinoyi Amadu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
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15
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Maguire K, Garside R, Poland J, Fleming LE, Alcock I, Taylor T, Macintyre H, Iacono GL, Green A, Wheeler BW. Public involvement in research about environmental change and health: A case study. Health (London) 2020; 23:215-233. [PMID: 30786766 PMCID: PMC6388412 DOI: 10.1177/1363459318809405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Involving and engaging the public are crucial for effective prioritisation, dissemination and implementation of research about the complex interactions between environments and health. Involvement is also important to funders and policy makers who often see it as vital for building trust and justifying the investment of public money. In public health research, ‘the public’ can seem an amorphous target for researchers to engage with, and the short-term nature of research projects can be a challenge. Technocratic and pedagogical approaches have frequently met with resistance, so public involvement needs to be seen in the context of a history which includes contested truths, power inequalities and political activism. It is therefore vital for researchers and policy makers, as well as public contributors, to share best practice and to explore the challenges encountered in public involvement and engagement. This article presents a theoretically informed case study of the contributions made by the Health and Environment Public Engagement Group to the work of the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health (HPRU-ECH). We describe how Health and Environment Public Engagement Group has provided researchers in the HPRU-ECH with a vehicle to support access to public views on multiple aspects of the research work across three workshops, discussion of ongoing research issues at meetings and supporting dissemination to local government partners, as well as public representation on the HPRU-ECH Advisory Board. We conclude that institutional support for standing public involvement groups can provide conduits for connecting public with policy makers and academic institutions. This can enable public involvement and engagement, which would be difficult, if not impossible, to achieve in individual short-term and unconnected research projects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jo Poland
- Health and Environment Public Engagement (HEPE), UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Andrew Green
- Health and Environment Public Engagement (HEPE), UK
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16
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Gaydos DA, Petrasova A, Cobb RC, Meentemeyer RK. Forecasting and control of emerging infectious forest disease through participatory modelling. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 374:20180283. [PMID: 31104598 PMCID: PMC6558554 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2018.0283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological models are powerful tools for evaluating scenarios and visualizing patterns of disease spread, especially when comparing intervention strategies. However, the technical skill required to synthesize and operate computational models frequently renders them beyond the command of the stakeholders who are most impacted by the results. Participatory modelling (PM) strives to restructure the power relationship between modellers and the stakeholders who rely on model insights by involving these stakeholders directly in model development and application; yet, a systematic literature review indicates little adoption of these techniques in epidemiology, especially plant epidemiology. We investigate the potential for PM to integrate stakeholder and researcher knowledge, using Phytophthora ramorum and the resulting sudden oak death disease as a case study. Recent introduction of a novel strain (European 1 or EU1) in southwestern Oregon has prompted significant concern and presents an opportunity for coordinated management to minimize regional pathogen impacts. Using a PM framework, we worked with local stakeholders to develop an interactive forecasting tool for evaluating landscape-scale control strategies. We find that model co-development has great potential to empower stakeholders in the design, development and application of epidemiological models for disease control. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Modelling infectious disease outbreaks in humans, animals and plants: epidemic forecasting and control’. This theme issue is linked with the earlier issue ‘Modelling infectious disease outbreaks in humans, animals and plants: approaches and important themes’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devon A Gaydos
- 1 Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University , 2800 Faucette Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606 , USA.,2 Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University , 2800 Faucette Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606 , USA
| | - Anna Petrasova
- 2 Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University , 2800 Faucette Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606 , USA
| | - Richard C Cobb
- 3 Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, California Polytechnic State University , San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 , USA
| | - Ross K Meentemeyer
- 1 Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University , 2800 Faucette Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606 , USA.,2 Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University , 2800 Faucette Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606 , USA
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17
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Kajero O, Del Rio Vilas V, Wood JLN, Lo Iacono G. New methodologies for the estimation of population vulnerability to diseases: a case study of Lassa fever and Ebola in Nigeria and Sierra Leone. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 374:20180265. [PMID: 31104602 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2018.0265] [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] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Public health practitioners require measures to evaluate how vulnerable populations are to diseases, especially for zoonoses (i.e. diseases transmitted from animals to humans) given their pandemic potential. These measures would be valuable to support strategic and operational decision making and allocation of resources. Although vulnerability is well defined for natural hazards, for public health threats the concept remains undetermined. Here, we develop new methodologies to: (i) quantify the impact of zoonotic diseases and the capacity of countries to cope with these diseases, and (ii) combine these two measures (impact and capacity) into one overall vulnerability indicator. The adaptive capacity is calculated from estimations of disease mortality, although the method can be adapted for diseases with no or low mortality but high morbidity. As an example, we focused on the vulnerability of Nigeria and Sierra Leone to Lassa Fever and Ebola. We develop a simple analytical form that can be used to estimate vulnerability scores for different spatial units of interest, e.g. countries or regions. We show how some populations can be highly vulnerable despite low impact threats. We finally outline future research to more comprehensively inform vulnerability with the incorporation of relevant factors depicting local heterogeneities (e.g. bio-physical and socio-economic factors). This article is part of the theme issue 'Modelling infectious disease outbreaks in humans, animals and plants: epidemic forecasting and control'. This theme issue is linked with the earlier issue 'Modelling infectious disease outbreaks in humans, animals and plants: approaches and important themes'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olumayowa Kajero
- 1 School of Veterinary Medicine, Daphne Jackson Road, University of Surrey , Guildford, Surrey GU2 7AL , UK
| | - Victor Del Rio Vilas
- 1 School of Veterinary Medicine, Daphne Jackson Road, University of Surrey , Guildford, Surrey GU2 7AL , UK
| | - James L N Wood
- 2 Department of Veterinary Medicine, Disease Dynamics Unit, University of Cambridge , Cambridge CB3 0ES , UK
| | - Giovanni Lo Iacono
- 1 School of Veterinary Medicine, Daphne Jackson Road, University of Surrey , Guildford, Surrey GU2 7AL , UK
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18
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Purse BV, Darshan N, Kasabi GS, Gerard F, Samrat A, George C, Vanak AT, Oommen M, Rahman M, Burthe SJ, Young JC, Srinivas PN, Schäfer SM, Henrys PA, Sandhya VK, Chanda MM, Murhekar MV, Hoti SL, Kiran SK. Predicting disease risk areas through co-production of spatial models: The example of Kyasanur Forest Disease in India's forest landscapes. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008179. [PMID: 32255797 PMCID: PMC7164675 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic diseases affect resource-poor tropical communities disproportionately, and are linked to human use and modification of ecosystems. Disentangling the socio-ecological mechanisms by which ecosystem change precipitates impacts of pathogens is critical for predicting disease risk and designing effective intervention strategies. Despite the global "One Health" initiative, predictive models for tropical zoonotic diseases often focus on narrow ranges of risk factors and are rarely scaled to intervention programs and ecosystem use. This study uses a participatory, co-production approach to address this disconnect between science, policy and implementation, by developing more informative disease models for a fatal tick-borne viral haemorrhagic disease, Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), that is spreading across degraded forest ecosystems in India. We integrated knowledge across disciplines to identify key risk factors and needs with actors and beneficiaries across the relevant policy sectors, to understand disease patterns and develop decision support tools. Human case locations (2014-2018) and spatial machine learning quantified the relative role of risk factors, including forest cover and loss, host densities and public health access, in driving landscape-scale disease patterns in a long-affected district (Shivamogga, Karnataka State). Models combining forest metrics, livestock densities and elevation accurately predicted spatial patterns in human KFD cases (2014-2018). Consistent with suggestions that KFD is an "ecotonal" disease, landscapes at higher risk for human KFD contained diverse forest-plantation mosaics with high coverage of moist evergreen forest and plantation, high indigenous cattle density, and low coverage of dry deciduous forest. Models predicted new hotspots of outbreaks in 2019, indicating their value for spatial targeting of intervention. Co-production was vital for: gathering outbreak data that reflected locations of exposure in the landscape; better understanding contextual socio-ecological risk factors; and tailoring the spatial grain and outputs to the scale of forest use, and public health interventions. We argue this inter-disciplinary approach to risk prediction is applicable across zoonotic diseases in tropical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethan V. Purse
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Wallingford, United Kingdom
| | - Narayanaswamy Darshan
- Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, Government of Karnataka, Shivamogga, India
- ICMR-National Institute for Traditional Medicine, Belgavi, India
| | - Gudadappa S. Kasabi
- Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, Government of Karnataka, Shivamogga, India
| | - France Gerard
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Wallingford, United Kingdom
| | - Abhishek Samrat
- Ashoka Trust for Ecology and the Environment, Bengaluru, India
| | - Charles George
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Wallingford, United Kingdom
| | - Abi T. Vanak
- Ashoka Trust for Ecology and the Environment, Bengaluru, India
- DBT/Wellcome Trust India Alliance Fellow, Hyderabad, India
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Meera Oommen
- Ashoka Trust for Ecology and the Environment, Bengaluru, India
- Dakshin Foundation, Bangalore, India
| | - Mujeeb Rahman
- Ashoka Trust for Ecology and the Environment, Bengaluru, India
| | - Sarah J. Burthe
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Juliette C. Young
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | | | | | - Peter A. Henrys
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Vijay K. Sandhya
- Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, Government of Karnataka, Shivamogga, India
| | - M Mudassar Chanda
- ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Bengaluru, India
| | | | - Subhash L. Hoti
- ICMR-National Institute for Traditional Medicine, Belgavi, India
| | - Shivani K. Kiran
- Department of Health and Family Welfare Services, Government of Karnataka, Shivamogga, India
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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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20
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Beyond Climate Change and Health: Integrating Broader Environmental Change and Natural Environments for Public Health Protection and Promotion in the UK. ATMOSPHERE 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos9070245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increasingly, the potential short and long-term impacts of climate change on human health and wellbeing are being demonstrated. However, other environmental change factors, particularly relating to the natural environment, need to be taken into account to understand the totality of these interactions and impacts. This paper provides an overview of ongoing research in the Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) on Environmental Change and Health, particularly around the positive and negative effects of the natural environment on human health and well-being and primarily within a UK context. In addition to exploring the potential increasing risks to human health from water-borne and vector-borne diseases and from exposure to aeroallergens such as pollen, this paper also demonstrates the potential opportunities and co-benefits to human physical and mental health from interacting with the natural environment. The involvement of a Health and Environment Public Engagement (HEPE) group as a public forum of “critical friends” has proven useful for prioritising and exploring some of this research; such public involvement is essential to minimise public health risks and maximise the benefits which are identified from this research into environmental change and human health. Research gaps are identified and recommendations made for future research into the risks, benefits and potential opportunities of climate and other environmental change on human and planetary health.
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Salyer SJ, Silver R, Simone K, Barton Behravesh C. Prioritizing Zoonoses for Global Health Capacity Building-Themes from One Health Zoonotic Disease Workshops in 7 Countries, 2014-2016. Emerg Infect Dis 2018; 23. [PMID: 29155664 PMCID: PMC5711306 DOI: 10.3201/eid2313.170418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic diseases represent critical threats to global health security. Effective mitigation of the impact of endemic and emerging zoonotic diseases of public health importance requires multisectoral collaboration and interdisciplinary partnerships. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention created the One Health Zoonotic Disease Prioritization Tool to help countries identify zoonotic diseases of greatest national concern using input from representatives of human health, agriculture, environment, and wildlife sectors. We review 7 One Health Zoonotic Disease Prioritization Tool workshops conducted during 2014–2016, highlighting workshop outcomes, lessons learned, and shared themes from countries implementing this process. We also describe the tool’s ability to help countries focus One Health capacity-building efforts to appropriately prevent, detect, and respond to zoonotic disease threats.
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Majekodunmi AO, Dongkum C, Idehen C, Langs DT, Welburn SC. Participatory epidemiology of endemic diseases in West African cattle - Ethnoveterinary and bioveterinary knowledge in Fulani disease control. One Health 2018; 5:46-56. [PMID: 29911165 PMCID: PMC6000814 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 01/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Fulani pastoralists in Nigeria lack adequate access to good quality veterinary services and often resort to treating their animals themselves. There are several negative aspects to this, including poor treatment outcomes, misuse of veterinary drugs and subsequent resistance, and further barriers to good relations between pastoralists and veterinary services. A participatory epidemiology survey was undertaken in Fulani communities, to examine their ability to diagnose and treat bovine diseases. Qualitative participatory epidemiology techniques including semi-structured interviews, ranking and participant and non-participant observations were used for data collection. Quantitative analysis to match Fulani disease descriptions to veterinary diseases was done by hierarchical clustering and multi-dimensional scaling. A concurrent parasitological survey for soil-transmitted parasites, trypanosomiasis and tick-borne diseases was undertaken to validate results. Fulani pastoralists displayed high levels of ethnoveterinary knowledge and good clinical diagnostic abilities. Diseases considered important by pastoralists included: hanta (CBPP); sammore (trypanosomiasis); boro (foot and mouth disease), gortowel (liver fluke), dauda (parasitic gastro-enteritis with bloody diarrhoea) and susa (parasitic gastro-enteritis). The parasitology survey supported the participatory epidemiology results but also showed a high prevalence of tick-borne diseases that were not mentioned by pastoralists in this study. The use of "hanta" to describe CBPP is important as the accepted translation is liver-fluke (hanta is the Hausa word for liver). Gortowel and dauda, two previously undescribed Fulfulde disease names have now been matched to liver fluke and PGE with bloody diarrhoea. Fulani showed low levels of bovine veterinary knowledge with mostly incorrect veterinary drugs chosen for treatment. Levels of ethno- and bio-veterinary knowledge and their application within pastoralist livestock healthcare practices are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodele O. Majekodunmi
- Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK
- Livestock and Poultry Research Centre, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 25, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charles Dongkum
- Trypanosomiasis Department, Nigerian Institute for Trypanosomiasis Research, P. M. B. 1303, Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria
| | - Christopher Idehen
- Trypanosomiasis Department, Nigerian Institute for Trypanosomiasis Research, P. M. B. 1303, Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria
| | - Dachung Tok Langs
- Veterinary Clinic, National Veterinary Research Institute, P. M. B. 01, Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria
| | - Susan C. Welburn
- Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK
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Bardosh KL, Scoones JC, Grace D, Kalema-Zikusoka G, Jones KE, de Balogh K, Waltner-Toews D, Bett B, Welburn SC, Mumford E, Dzingirai V. Engaging research with policy and action: what are the challenges of responding to zoonotic disease in Africa? Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2018; 372:rstb.2016.0172. [PMID: 28584180 PMCID: PMC5468697 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic diseases will maintain a high level of public policy attention in the coming decades. From the spectre of a global pandemic to anxieties over agricultural change, urbanization, social inequality and threats to natural ecosystems, effectively preparing and responding to endemic and emerging diseases will require technological, institutional and social innovation. Much current discussion emphasizes the need for a 'One Health' approach: bridging disciplines and sectors to tackle these complex dynamics. However, as attention has increased, so too has an appreciation of the practical challenges in linking multi-disciplinary, multi-sectoral research with policy, action and impact. In this commentary paper, we reflect on these issues with particular reference to the African sub-continent. We structure the themes of our analysis on the existing literature, expert opinion and 11 interviews with leading One Health scholars and practitioners, conducted at an international symposium in 2016. We highlight a variety of challenges in research and knowledge production, in the difficult terrain of implementation and outreach, and in the politicized nature of decision-making and priority setting. We then turn our attention to a number of strategies that might help reconfigure current pathways and accepted norms of practice. These include: (i) challenging scientific expertise; (ii) strengthening national multi-sectoral coordination; (iii) building on what works; and (iv) re-framing policy narratives. We argue that bridging the research-policy-action interface in Africa, and better connecting zoonoses, ecosystems and well-being in the twenty-first century, will ultimately require greater attention to the democratization of science and public policy.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)
- Kevin Louis Bardosh
- Department of Anthropology and Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | | | - Delia Grace
- International Livestock Research Institute, PO Box 30709, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka
- Conservation Through Public Health, Plot 3 Mapeera Lane, Entebbe PO Box 75298 Clock Towers, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kate E Jones
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.,Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Katinka de Balogh
- Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), 39 Phra Atit Road, Phranakon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
| | - David Waltner-Toews
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, PO Box 30709, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Susan C Welburn
- Division of Pathway Medicine and Centre for Infectious Diseases, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elizabeth Mumford
- Department of Country Health Emergency Preparedness and IHR, World Health Organization, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Vupenyu Dzingirai
- Centre for Applied Social Science, University of Zimbabwe, MP167 Mt Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Gibb R, Moses LM, Redding DW, Jones KE. Understanding the cryptic nature of Lassa fever in West Africa. Pathog Glob Health 2017; 111:276-288. [PMID: 28875769 PMCID: PMC5694855 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2017.1369643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lassa fever (LF) is increasingly recognized by global health institutions as an important rodent-borne disease with severe impacts on some of West Africa's poorest communities. However, our knowledge of LF ecology, epidemiology and distribution is limited, which presents barriers to both short-term disease forecasting and prediction of long-term impacts of environmental change on Lassa virus (LASV) zoonotic transmission dynamics. Here, we synthesize current knowledge to show that extrapolations from past research have produced an incomplete picture of the incidence and distribution of LF, with negative consequences for policy planning, medical treatment and management interventions. Although the recent increase in LF case reports is likely due to improved surveillance, recent studies suggest that future socio-ecological changes in West Africa may drive increases in LF burden. Future research should focus on the geographical distribution and disease burden of LF, in order to improve its integration into public policy and disease control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory Gibb
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lina M. Moses
- Department of Global Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - David W. Redding
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kate E. Jones
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, London, UK
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25
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Scoones I, Jones K, Lo Iacono G, Redding DW, Wilkinson A, Wood JLN. Integrative modelling for One Health: pattern, process and participation. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2017; 372:20160164. [PMID: 28584172 PMCID: PMC5468689 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper argues for an integrative modelling approach for understanding zoonoses disease dynamics, combining process, pattern and participatory models. Each type of modelling provides important insights, but all are limited. Combining these in a '3P' approach offers the opportunity for a productive conversation between modelling efforts, contributing to a 'One Health' agenda. The aim is not to come up with a composite model, but seek synergies between perspectives, encouraging cross-disciplinary interactions. We illustrate our argument with cases from Africa, and in particular from our work on Ebola virus and Lassa fever virus. Combining process-based compartmental models with macroecological data offers a spatial perspective on potential disease impacts. However, without insights from the ground, the 'black box' of transmission dynamics, so crucial to model assumptions, may not be fully understood. We show how participatory modelling and ethnographic research of Ebola and Lassa fever can reveal social roles, unsafe practices, mobility and movement and temporal changes in livelihoods. Together with longer-term dynamics of change in societies and ecologies, all can be important in explaining disease transmission, and provide important complementary insights to other modelling efforts. An integrative modelling approach therefore can offer help to improve disease control efforts and public health responses.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)
- I Scoones
- STEPS Centre, Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9RE, UK
| | - K Jones
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - G Lo Iacono
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Disease Dynamics Unit, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK
- Environmental Change, Public Health England, Didcot OX11 0RQ, UK
| | - D W Redding
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A Wilkinson
- STEPS Centre, Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9RE, UK
| | - J L N Wood
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Disease Dynamics Unit, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK
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Lo Iacono G, Armstrong B, Fleming LE, Elson R, Kovats S, Vardoulakis S, Nichols GL. Challenges in developing methods for quantifying the effects of weather and climate on water-associated diseases: A systematic review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005659. [PMID: 28604791 PMCID: PMC5481148 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases attributable to unsafe water supply, sanitation and hygiene (e.g. Cholera, Leptospirosis, Giardiasis) remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in low-income countries. Climate and weather factors are known to affect the transmission and distribution of infectious diseases and statistical and mathematical modelling are continuously developing to investigate the impact of weather and climate on water-associated diseases. There have been little critical analyses of the methodological approaches. Our objective is to review and summarize statistical and modelling methods used to investigate the effects of weather and climate on infectious diseases associated with water, in order to identify limitations and knowledge gaps in developing of new methods. We conducted a systematic review of English-language papers published from 2000 to 2015. Search terms included concepts related to water-associated diseases, weather and climate, statistical, epidemiological and modelling methods. We found 102 full text papers that met our criteria and were included in the analysis. The most commonly used methods were grouped in two clusters: process-based models (PBM) and time series and spatial epidemiology (TS-SE). In general, PBM methods were employed when the bio-physical mechanism of the pathogen under study was relatively well known (e.g. Vibrio cholerae); TS-SE tended to be used when the specific environmental mechanisms were unclear (e.g. Campylobacter). Important data and methodological challenges emerged, with implications for surveillance and control of water-associated infections. The most common limitations comprised: non-inclusion of key factors (e.g. biological mechanism, demographic heterogeneity, human behavior), reporting bias, poor data quality, and collinearity in exposures. Furthermore, the methods often did not distinguish among the multiple sources of time-lags (e.g. patient physiology, reporting bias, healthcare access) between environmental drivers/exposures and disease detection. Key areas of future research include: disentangling the complex effects of weather/climate on each exposure-health outcome pathway (e.g. person-to-person vs environment-to-person), and linking weather data to individual cases longitudinally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Lo Iacono
- Chemical and Environmental Effects Department, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Chilton, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Armstrong
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lora E. Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Elson
- Gastrointestinal Infections, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sari Kovats
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sotiris Vardoulakis
- Chemical and Environmental Effects Department, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Chilton, United Kingdom
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall, United Kingdom
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon L. Nichols
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall, United Kingdom
- Gastrointestinal Infections, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
- University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
- University of Thessaly, Larissa, Thessaly, Greece
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27
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Hamill L, Picozzi K, Fyfe J, von Wissmann B, Wastling S, Wardrop N, Selby R, Acup CA, Bardosh KL, Muhanguzi D, Kabasa JD, Waiswa C, Welburn SC. Evaluating the impact of targeting livestock for the prevention of human and animal trypanosomiasis, at village level, in districts newly affected with T. b. rhodesiense in Uganda. Infect Dis Poverty 2017; 6:16. [PMID: 28162093 PMCID: PMC5292814 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-016-0224-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Uganda has suffered from a series of epidemics of Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), a tsetse transmitted disease, also known as sleeping sickness. The area affected by acute Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense HAT (rHAT) has been expanding, driven by importation of infected cattle into regions previously free of the disease. These regions are also affected by African Animal Trypanosomiasis (AAT) demanding a strategy for integrated disease control. Methods In 2008, the Public Private Partnership, Stamp Out Sleeping Sickness (SOS) administered a single dose of trypanocide to 31 486 head of cattle in 29 parishes in Dokolo and Kaberamaido districts. This study examines the impact of this intervention on the prevalence of rHAT and AAT trypanosomes in cattle from villages that had (HAT+ve) or had not (HAT-ve) experienced a recent case of rHAT. Cattle herds from 20 villages were sampled and screened by PCR, pre-intervention and 6-months post-intervention, for the presence or absence of: Trypanosoma brucei s.l.; human infective T. b. rhodesiense; Trypanosoma vivax; and Trypanosoma congolense savannah. Results Post-intervention, there was a significant decrease in the prevalence of T. brucei s.l. and the human infective sub-species T. b. rhodesiense in village cattle across all 20 villages. The prevalence of T. b. rhodesiense was reduced from 2.4% to 0.74% (P < 0.0001), with the intervention showing greater impact in HAT-ve villages. The number of villages containing cattle harbouring human infective parasites decreased from 15/20 to 8/20, with T. b. rhodesiense infection mainly persisting within cattle in HAT+ve villages (six/eight). The proportion of T. brucei s.l. infections identified as human infective T. b. rhodesiense decreased after the intervention from 8.3% (95% CI = 11.1–5.9%) to 4.1% (95% CI = 6.8–2.3%). Villages that had experienced a recent human case (HAT+ve villages) showed a significantly higher prevalence for AAT both pre- and post-intervention. For AAT the prevalence of T. vivax was significantly reduced from 5.9% to 0.05% post-intervention while the prevalence of T. congolense increased from 8.0% to 12.2%. Conclusions The intervention resulted in a significant decrease in the prevalence of T. brucei s.l., human infective T. b. rhodesiense and T. vivax infection in village cattle herds. The proportion of T. brucei s.l. that were human infective, decreased from 1:12 T. brucei s.l. infections before the intervention to 1:33 post-intervention. It is clearly more difficult to eliminate T. b. rhodesiense from cattle in villages that have experienced a human case. Evidence of elevated levels of AAT in livestock within village herds is a useful indicator of risk for rHAT in Uganda. Integrated veterinary and medical surveillance is key to successful control of zoonotic rHAT. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40249-016-0224-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Hamill
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Kim Picozzi
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Jenna Fyfe
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Beatrix von Wissmann
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Sally Wastling
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Nicola Wardrop
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Richard Selby
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Christine Amongi Acup
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Kevin L Bardosh
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Dennis Muhanguzi
- Department of Pharmacy, Clinical and Comparative Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John D Kabasa
- Department of Pharmacy, Clinical and Comparative Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Waiswa
- Department of Pharmacy, Clinical and Comparative Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.,The Coordinating Office for Control of Trypanosomiasis in Uganda (COCTU), Wandegeya, Plot 76/78 Buganda Road, P.O. Box 16345, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Susan C Welburn
- Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK.
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Lo Iacono G, Cunningham AA, Fichet-Calvet E, Garry RF, Grant DS, Leach M, Moses LM, Nichols G, Schieffelin JS, Shaffer JG, Webb CT, Wood JLN. A Unified Framework for the Infection Dynamics of Zoonotic Spillover and Spread. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004957. [PMID: 27588425 PMCID: PMC5010258 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A considerable amount of disease is transmitted from animals to humans and many of these zoonoses are neglected tropical diseases. As outbreaks of SARS, avian influenza and Ebola have demonstrated, however, zoonotic diseases are serious threats to global public health and are not just problems confined to remote regions. There are two fundamental, and poorly studied, stages of zoonotic disease emergence: ‘spillover’, i.e. transmission of pathogens from animals to humans, and ‘stuttering transmission’, i.e. when limited human-to-human infections occur, leading to self-limiting chains of transmission. We developed a transparent, theoretical framework, based on a generalization of Poisson processes with memory of past human infections, that unifies these stages. Once we have quantified pathogen dynamics in the reservoir, with some knowledge of the mechanism of contact, the approach provides a tool to estimate the likelihood of spillover events. Comparisons with independent agent-based models demonstrates the ability of the framework to correctly estimate the relative contributions of human-to-human vs animal transmission. As an illustrative example, we applied our model to Lassa fever, a rodent-borne, viral haemorrhagic disease common in West Africa, for which data on human outbreaks were available. The approach developed here is general and applicable to a range of zoonoses. This kind of methodology is of crucial importance for the scientific, medical and public health communities working at the interface between animal and human diseases to assess the risk associated with the disease and to plan intervention and appropriate control measures. The Lassa case study revealed important knowledge gaps, and opportunities, arising from limited knowledge of the temporal patterns in reporting, abundance of and infection prevalence in, the host reservoir. Many dangerous diseases emerge via spillover from animals, with limited human-to-human infection (stuttering-transmission) often being the first stage of human disease spread. Understanding the conditions (biological, environmental and socio-economic factors) that regulate spillover and disease spread is key to its mitigation. Here we are interested in questions such as: If we have quantified pathogen dynamics in the reservoir, with some knowledge of the mechanism of contact, can we estimate the likelihood of spillover events? Can we tease apart how much the disease is transmitted by animals and how much by humans? We developed a unified mathematical framework, based on Poisson processes with memory of past events, to understand the dynamics of spillover and stuttering-transmission. This framework, which can be applied across the disease transmission spectrum, allows the teasing apart of the disease burden attributed to animal-human and human-human transmission. Using this model, we can infer human disease risk based on knowledge of infection patterns in the animal reservoir host and the contact mechanisms required for transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Lo Iacono
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Disease Dynamics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Environmental Change Department, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Robert F. Garry
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Donald S. Grant
- Lassa Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Melissa Leach
- Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Lina M. Moses
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Gordon Nichols
- Gastrointestinal, Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - John S. Schieffelin
- Sections of Infectious Disease, Departments of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey G. Shaffer
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Colleen T. Webb
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - James L. N. Wood
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Disease Dynamics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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