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Daodu OB, Shaibu JO, Audu RA, Oluwayelu DO. Seromolecular survey and risk factor analysis of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever orthonairovirus in occupationally exposed herdsmen and unexposed febrile patients in Kwara State, Nigeria. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303099. [PMID: 38723009 PMCID: PMC11081240 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303099] [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: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is a globally significant tick-borne zoonotic pathogen that causes fatal haemorrhagic disease in humans. Despite constituting an ongoing public health threat, limited research exists on the presence of CCHFV among herdsmen, an occupationally exposed population that has prolonged contact with ruminants and ticks. This cross-sectional study, conducted between October 2018 and February 2020 in Kwara State, Nigeria, was aimed at assessing CCHFV seroprevalence among herdsmen and non-herdsmen febrile patients, and identifying the associated risk factors. Blood samples from herdsmen (n = 91) and febrile patients in hospitals (n = 646) were analyzed for anti-CCHFV IgG antibodies and CCHFV S-segment RNA using ELISA and RT-PCR, respectively. Results revealed a remarkably high CCHFV seroprevalence of 92.3% (84/91) among herdsmen compared to 7.1% (46/646) in febrile patients. Occupational risk factors like animal and tick contact, tick bites, and hand crushing of ticks significantly contributed to higher seroprevalence in the herdsmen (p<0.0001). Herdsmen were 156.5 times more likely (p<0.0001) to be exposed to CCHFV than febrile patients. Notably, the odds of exposure were significantly higher (OR = 191.3; p<0.0001) in herdsmen with a history of tick bites. Although CCHFV genome was not detectable in the tested sera, our findings reveal that the virus is endemic among herdsmen in Kwara State, Nigeria. CCHFV should be considered as a probable cause of febrile illness among humans in the study area. Given the nomadic lifestyle of herdsmen, further investigations into CCHF epidemiology in this neglected population are crucial. This study enhances our understanding of CCHFV dynamics and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions in at-risk communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwafemi Babatunde Daodu
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Virology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
| | - Joseph Ojonugwa Shaibu
- Centre for Human Virology and Genomics, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Rosemary Ajuma Audu
- Centre for Human Virology and Genomics, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Daniel Oladimeji Oluwayelu
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Arbovirology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Centre for Control and Prevention of Zoonoses, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
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Samkange A, Mbiri P, Matomola OC, Zaire G, Homateni A, Junias E, Kaatura I, Khaiseb S, Ekandjo S, Shoopala J, Hausiku M, Shilongo A, Mujiwa ML, Dietze K, Busch F, Winter C, Matos C, Weiss S, Chitanga S. Serological Evidence of Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever in Livestock in the Omaheke Region of Namibia. Microorganisms 2024; 12:838. [PMID: 38674782 PMCID: PMC11051821 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12040838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This research examined the positivity ratio of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) antibodies in cattle and sheep within Namibia's Omaheke region after a human disease outbreak in the same geographical area. A total of 200 samples (100 cattle and 100 sheep) were randomly collected from animals brought to two regional auction sites, and then tested using the ID Screen® CCHF Double Antigen Multi-Species Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay kit. Of the cattle samples, 36% tested positive, while 22% of the sheep samples were seropositive. The cattle had a significantly higher positivity ratio than sheep at the individual animal level (p = 0.0291). At the herd level, 62.5% of cattle herds and 45.5% of sheep flocks had at least one positive animal, but this difference was statistically insignificant (p = 0.2475). The fourteen cattle farms with at least one seropositive animal were dispersed across the Omaheke region. In contrast, the ten sheep farms with seropositive cases were predominantly situated in the southern half of the region. The study concluded that the CCHF is endemic in the Omaheke region and likely in most of Namibia, underscoring the importance of continued surveillance and preventive measures to mitigate the impact of CCHFV on animal health and potential spillover into human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaster Samkange
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Namibia, Private Bag 13301, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (A.S.); (P.M.); (O.C.M.); (I.K.); (S.K.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Pricilla Mbiri
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Namibia, Private Bag 13301, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (A.S.); (P.M.); (O.C.M.); (I.K.); (S.K.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Ophelia Chuma Matomola
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Namibia, Private Bag 13301, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (A.S.); (P.M.); (O.C.M.); (I.K.); (S.K.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Georgina Zaire
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Private Bag 13184, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (G.Z.); (A.H.); (E.J.); (S.E.); (J.S.); (M.H.); (A.S.)
| | - Anna Homateni
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Private Bag 13184, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (G.Z.); (A.H.); (E.J.); (S.E.); (J.S.); (M.H.); (A.S.)
| | - Elifas Junias
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Private Bag 13184, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (G.Z.); (A.H.); (E.J.); (S.E.); (J.S.); (M.H.); (A.S.)
| | - Israel Kaatura
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Namibia, Private Bag 13301, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (A.S.); (P.M.); (O.C.M.); (I.K.); (S.K.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Siegfried Khaiseb
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Namibia, Private Bag 13301, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (A.S.); (P.M.); (O.C.M.); (I.K.); (S.K.); (M.L.M.)
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Private Bag 13184, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (G.Z.); (A.H.); (E.J.); (S.E.); (J.S.); (M.H.); (A.S.)
| | - Simson Ekandjo
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Private Bag 13184, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (G.Z.); (A.H.); (E.J.); (S.E.); (J.S.); (M.H.); (A.S.)
| | - Johannes Shoopala
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Private Bag 13184, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (G.Z.); (A.H.); (E.J.); (S.E.); (J.S.); (M.H.); (A.S.)
| | - Magrecia Hausiku
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Private Bag 13184, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (G.Z.); (A.H.); (E.J.); (S.E.); (J.S.); (M.H.); (A.S.)
| | - Albertina Shilongo
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Private Bag 13184, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (G.Z.); (A.H.); (E.J.); (S.E.); (J.S.); (M.H.); (A.S.)
| | - Mushabati Linus Mujiwa
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Namibia, Private Bag 13301, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (A.S.); (P.M.); (O.C.M.); (I.K.); (S.K.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Klaas Dietze
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler Institute, 17489 Greifswald, Germany; (K.D.); (F.B.)
| | - Frank Busch
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler Institute, 17489 Greifswald, Germany; (K.D.); (F.B.)
| | - Christian Winter
- Centre for International Health Protection, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (C.W.); (C.M.); (S.W.)
| | - Carolina Matos
- Centre for International Health Protection, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (C.W.); (C.M.); (S.W.)
| | - Sabrina Weiss
- Centre for International Health Protection, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (C.W.); (C.M.); (S.W.)
| | - Simbarashe Chitanga
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Namibia, Private Bag 13301, Windhoek 10005, Namibia; (A.S.); (P.M.); (O.C.M.); (I.K.); (S.K.); (M.L.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, P.O. Box 50110, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
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Rekik S, Hammami I, Timoumi O, Maghzaoua D, Khamassi Khbou M, Schulz A, Groschup MH, Gharbi M. A Review on Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Infections in Tunisia. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024. [PMID: 38457645 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic tick-borne disease, caused by an arbovirus of the genus Orthonairovirus and the family Nairoviridae. Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is widespread in several regions of the world. While the virus is not pathogenic to all susceptible livestock and wild mammals, it can lead to severe hemorrhagic fever in humans. In this review, we compiled published data on CCHFV infections in humans, animals, and ticks in Tunisia. Based on that, we discussed the epidemiology and the distribution patterns of CCHFV infections highlighting the risk factors for this virus in the country. CCHF infection prevalence in humans was estimated to 2.76% (5/181) and 5% (2/38) in Tunisian febrile patients and Tunisian slaughterhouse workers, respectively. Concurrently, seroprevalence in domestic ungulates (sheep, goats, cattle, and dromedaries) ranged from zero to 89.7%, and only one Hyalomma impeltatum tick specimen collected from dromedaries in southern Tunisian was positive for CCHFV by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (0.6%; 1/165). As Tunisian studies on CCHFV are geographically scattered and limited due to very small sample sizes, further studies are needed to improve the knowledge on the epidemiology of CCHF in Tunisia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syrine Rekik
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Ines Hammami
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Oumayma Timoumi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Dhekra Maghzaoua
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Médiha Khamassi Khbou
- Laboratory of Infectious Animal Diseases, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Ansgar Schulz
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Martin H Groschup
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Mohamed Gharbi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Zoonoses, and Sanitary Regulation, University of Manouba, Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
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Chakraborty S, Gao S, Allan BF, Smith RL. Effects of cattle on vector-borne disease risk to humans: A systematic review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011152. [PMID: 38113279 PMCID: PMC10763968 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011152] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) causing vector-borne diseases (VBDs) can circulate among humans, domestic animals, and wildlife, with cattle in particular serving as an important source of exposure risk to humans. The close associations between humans and cattle can facilitate the transmission of numerous VBPs, impacting public health and economic security. Published studies demonstrate that cattle can influence human exposure risk positively, negatively, or have no effect. There is a critical need to synthesize the information in the scientific literature on this subject, in order to illuminate the various ecological mechanisms that can affect VBP exposure risk in humans. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to review the scientific literature, provide a synthesis of the possible effects of cattle on VBP risk to humans, and propose future directions for research. This study was performed according to the PRISMA 2020 extension guidelines for systematic review. After screening 470 peer-reviewed articles published between 1999-2019 using the databases Web of Science Core Collection, PubMed Central, CABI Global Health, and Google Scholar, and utilizing forward and backward search techniques, we identified 127 papers that met inclusion criteria. Results of the systematic review indicate that cattle can be beneficial or harmful to human health with respect to VBDs depending on vector and pathogen ecology and livestock management practices. Cattle can increase risk of exposure to infections spread by tsetse flies and ticks, followed by sandflies and mosquitoes, through a variety of mechanisms. However, cattle can have a protective effect when the vector prefers to feed on cattle instead of humans and when chemical control measures (e.g., acaricides/insecticides), semio-chemicals, and other integrated vector control measures are utilized in the community. We highlight that further research is needed to determine ways in which these mechanisms may be exploited to reduce VBD risk in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Chakraborty
- Program in Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Urbana, Illinois, United Sates of America
| | - Siyu Gao
- School of Social Work, The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minnesota, United Sates of America
| | - Brian. F. Allan
- Program in Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Urbana, Illinois, United Sates of America
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United Sates of America
| | - Rebecca Lee Smith
- Program in Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Urbana, Illinois, United Sates of America
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United Sates of America
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Dahourou LD, Akio S, Savadogo M, Yougbaré B, Ouoba LB, Tapsoba ASR, Zerbo LH, Ilboudo AK, Abga RL, Traoré A, Dione MM, Bada Alambédji R. Serological evidence and factors associated with Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever in sheep in Burkina Faso. Vet Med Sci 2023; 10:e1322. [PMID: 37985204 PMCID: PMC10803946 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1322] [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: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is caused by an orthonairovirus transmitted by bites from infected ticks or by direct contact with blood or tissues of infected ticks, viraemic patients or viraemic livestock. OBJECTIVE It was implemented to access the seropositivity and associated factors with CCHF in sheep in two provinces in Burkina Faso. METHODS Three hundred and sixty-four sheep sera have been taken from 73 herds in four municipalities and two provinces. The double-antigen sandwich ELISA test was used to test for antibodies against CCHF virus (CCHFV). Data have also been collected using questionnaire to assess factors associated with CCHF seropositivity. RESULTS Fifty-four (54 out to 364 sheep were seropositive given an overall seropositivity of 14.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.9%-19.8%) with an adjusted seropositivity of 13.1%. The study showed that 15.6% (95% CI: 10.2-21.0) and 14.1% (95% CI: 9.2-19.1) of sheep in the provinces of Mouhoun and Kénédougou, respectively, had antibodies against CCHFV. The highest seropositivity was found in Dédougou municipality (24.4%). The study showed that sheep from the municipalities of Dédougou (AOR = 8.4; 95% CI: 2.2-31.8), N'dorola (AOR = 14.7; 95% CI: 3.8-56.8), Sindou (AOR = 4.9; 95% CI: 1.2-20.7), sheep aged between 27 and 36 months (AOR = 6.4; 95% CI: 2.3-17.3) and sheep with ticks (AOR = 24.8; 95% CI: 7.7-80.1) were more likely to be seropositive to CCHF. CONCLUSIONS The study revealed that sheep in Burkina Faso experienced contacts with CCHFV and suggests the importance of implementing control action in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laibané Dieudonné Dahourou
- Institut des Sciences de l'Environnement et du Développement Rural (ISEDR)Université de DédougouDédougouBurkina Faso
- Laboratoire de Biologie et santé animales (LABIOSA)Institut de l'Environnement et de recherches Agricoles (INERA)OuagadougouBurkina Faso
| | - Salimata Akio
- Service de MicrobiologieImmunologie et Pathologie InfectieuseDépartement de Santé Publique et EnvironnementEcole Inter‐Etats des Sciences et Médecine Vétérinaires (EISMV)DakarSénégal
| | - Madi Savadogo
- Laboratoire National de Référence‐Grippes (LNR‐G)Maladies Emergentes et ZoonosesDépartement de Biologie Médicale et Santé PubliqueUnité des Maladies à potentiel Epidémique, Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS/CNRST)OuagadougouBurkina Faso
| | - Bernadette Yougbaré
- Laboratoire de Biologie et santé animales (LABIOSA)Institut de l'Environnement et de recherches Agricoles (INERA)OuagadougouBurkina Faso
| | | | | | | | - Abdoul Kader Ilboudo
- Laboratoire National de Référence‐Grippes (LNR‐G)Maladies Emergentes et ZoonosesDépartement de Biologie Médicale et Santé PubliqueUnité des Maladies à potentiel Epidémique, Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS/CNRST)OuagadougouBurkina Faso
- Animal and Human Health ProgramInternational Livestock Research InstituteDakarSenegal
| | - Roland Lamoussa Abga
- Service de MicrobiologieImmunologie et Pathologie InfectieuseDépartement de Santé Publique et EnvironnementEcole Inter‐Etats des Sciences et Médecine Vétérinaires (EISMV)DakarSénégal
| | - Amadou Traoré
- Laboratoire de Biologie et santé animales (LABIOSA)Institut de l'Environnement et de recherches Agricoles (INERA)OuagadougouBurkina Faso
| | - Michel Mainack Dione
- Animal and Human Health ProgramInternational Livestock Research InstituteDakarSenegal
| | - Rianatou Bada Alambédji
- Service de MicrobiologieImmunologie et Pathologie InfectieuseDépartement de Santé Publique et EnvironnementEcole Inter‐Etats des Sciences et Médecine Vétérinaires (EISMV)DakarSénégal
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Nyakarahuka L, Kyondo J, Telford C, Whitesell A, Tumusiime A, Mulei S, Baluku J, Cossaboom CM, Cannon DL, Montgomery JM, Lutwama JJ, Nichol ST, Balinandi SK, Klena JD, Shoemaker TR. Seroepidemiological investigation of Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever virus in livestock in Uganda, 2017. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288587. [PMID: 37943886 PMCID: PMC10635543 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288587] [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: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is an important zoonotic disease transmitted to humans both by tick vectors and contact with fluids from an infected animal or human. Although animals are not symptomatic when infected, they are the main source of human infection. Uganda has reported sporadic human outbreaks of CCHF in various parts of the country since 2013. We designed a nationwide epidemiological study to investigate the burden of CCHF in livestock. A total of 3181 animals were sampled; 1732 cattle (54.4%), 1091 goats (34.3%), and 358 sheep (11.3%) resulting in overall livestock seropositivity of IgG antibodies against CCHF virus (CCHFV) of 31.4% (999/3181). Seropositivity in cattle was 16.9% and in sheep and goats was 48.8%. Adult and juvenile animals had higher seropositivity compared to recently born animals, and seropositivity was higher in female animals (33.5%) compared to male animals (24.1%). Local breeds had higher (36.8%) compared to exotic (2.8%) and cross breeds (19.3%). Animals that had a history of abortion or stillbirth had higher seropositivity compared to those without a history of abortion or stillbirth. CCHFV seropositivity appeared to be generally higher in northern districts of the country, though spatial trends among sampled districts were not examined. A multivariate regression analysis using a generalized linear mixed model showed that animal species, age, sex, region, and elevation were all significantly associated with CCHFV seropositivity after adjusting for the effects of other model predictors. This study shows that CCHFV is actively circulating in Uganda, posing a serious risk for human infection. The results from this study can be used to help target surveillance efforts for early case detection in animals and limit subsequent spillover into humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Nyakarahuka
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Biosecurity, Ecosystems and Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jackson Kyondo
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Carson Telford
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Amy Whitesell
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Alex Tumusiime
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Sophia Mulei
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jimmy Baluku
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Caitlin M. Cossaboom
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Deborah L. Cannon
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Joel M. Montgomery
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Julius J. Lutwama
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Stuart T. Nichol
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Stephen K. Balinandi
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - John D. Klena
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Trevor R. Shoemaker
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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Riccò M, Baldassarre A, Corrado S, Bottazzoli M, Marchesi F. Seroprevalence of Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus in Occupational Settings: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:452. [PMID: 37755913 PMCID: PMC10538165 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8090452] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) Virus can cause a serious human disease, with the case fatality ratio previously estimated to be 30-40%. Our study summarized seroprevalence data from occupational settings, focusing on the following occupational groups: animal handlers, abattoir workers, farmers, healthcare workers, veterinarians, rangers, and hunters. Systematic research was performed on three databases (PubMed, EMBASE, MedRxiv), and all studies reporting seroprevalence rates (IgG-positive status) for CCHF virus were retrieved and their results were reported, summarized, and compared. We identified a total of 33 articles, including a total of 20,195 samples, i.e., 13,197 workers from index occupational groups and 6998 individuals from the general population. Pooled seroprevalence rates ranged from 4.751% (95% confidence intervals (95% CI) 1.834 to 11.702) among animal handlers, to 3.403% (95% CI 2.44 to 3.932) for farmers, 2.737% (95% CI 0.896 to 8.054) among rangers and hunters, 1.900% (95% CI 0.738 to 4.808) for abattoir workers, and 0.644% (95% CI 0.223-1.849) for healthcare workers, with the lowest estimate found in veterinarians (0.283%, 95% CI 0.040-1.977). Seroprevalence rates for abattoir workers (odds ratio (OR) 4.198, 95% CI 1.060-16.464), animal handlers (OR 2.399, 95% CI 1.318-4.369), and farmers (OR 2.280, 95% CI 1.419 to 3.662) largely exceeded the official notification rates for CCHF in the general population. CCHF is reasonably underreported, and pooled estimates stress the importance of improving the adherence to personal protective equipment use and appropriate preventive habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Riccò
- AUSL–IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza Negli Ambienti di Lavoro (SPSAL), Local Health Unit of Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Antonio Baldassarre
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Silvia Corrado
- ASST Rhodense, Dipartimento della donna e Area Materno-Infantile, UOC Pediatria, 20024 Garbagnate Milanese, Italy;
| | - Marco Bottazzoli
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, APSS Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy;
| | - Federico Marchesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
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8
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Omoga DCA, Tchouassi DP, Venter M, Ogola EO, Osalla J, Kopp A, Slothouwer I, Torto B, Junglen S, Sang R. Transmission Dynamics of Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever Virus (CCHFV): Evidence of Circulation in Humans, Livestock, and Rodents in Diverse Ecologies in Kenya. Viruses 2023; 15:1891. [PMID: 37766297 PMCID: PMC10535211 DOI: 10.3390/v15091891] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is the causative agent of CCHF, a fatal viral haemorrhagic fever disease in humans. The maintenance of CCHFV in the ecosystem remains poorly understood. Certain tick species are considered as vectors and reservoirs of the virus. Diverse animals are suspected as amplifiers, with only scarce knowledge regarding rodents in virus epidemiology. In this study, serum samples from febrile patients, asymptomatic livestock (cattle, donkeys, sheep, and goats), and peridomestic rodents from Baringo (Marigat) and Kajiado (Nguruman) counties within the Kenyan Rift Valley were screened for acute CCHFV infection by RT-PCR and for CCHFV exposure by ELISA. RT-PCR was performed on all livestock samples in pools (5-7/pool by species and site) and in humans and rodents individually. CCHFV seropositivity was significantly higher in livestock (11.9%, 113/951) compared to rodents (6.5%, 6/93) and humans (5.9%, 29/493) (p = 0.001). Among the livestock, seropositivity was the highest in donkeys (31.4%, 16/51), followed by cattle (14.1%, 44/310), sheep (9.8%, 29/295) and goats (8.1%, 24/295). The presence of IgM antibodies against CCHFV was found in febrile patients suggesting acute or recent infection. CCHFV RNA was detected in four pooled sera samples from sheep (1.4%, 4/280) and four rodent tissues (0.83%, 4/480) showing up to 99% pairwise nucleotide identities among each other. Phylogenetic analyses of partial S segment sequences generated from these samples revealed a close relationship of 96-98% nucleotide identity to strains in the CCHFV Africa 3 lineage. The findings of this study suggest active unnoticed circulation of CCHFV in the study area and the involvement of livestock, rodents, and humans in the circulation of CCHFV in Kenya. The detection of CCHF viral RNA and antibodies against CCHFV in rodents suggests that they may participate in the viral transmission cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorcus C. A. Omoga
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Nairobi P.O. Box 30772-00100, Kenya; (D.C.A.O.); (D.P.T.); (E.O.O.); (J.O.); (B.T.)
- Zoonotic Arbo and Respiratory Virus Research Program, Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X 323, Gezina 0031, South Africa;
| | - David P. Tchouassi
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Nairobi P.O. Box 30772-00100, Kenya; (D.C.A.O.); (D.P.T.); (E.O.O.); (J.O.); (B.T.)
| | - Marietjie Venter
- Zoonotic Arbo and Respiratory Virus Research Program, Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X 323, Gezina 0031, South Africa;
| | - Edwin O. Ogola
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Nairobi P.O. Box 30772-00100, Kenya; (D.C.A.O.); (D.P.T.); (E.O.O.); (J.O.); (B.T.)
| | - Josephine Osalla
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Nairobi P.O. Box 30772-00100, Kenya; (D.C.A.O.); (D.P.T.); (E.O.O.); (J.O.); (B.T.)
| | - Anne Kopp
- Institute of Virology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Free University Berlin, Humboldt-University Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Chariteplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (A.K.); (I.S.)
| | - Inga Slothouwer
- Institute of Virology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Free University Berlin, Humboldt-University Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Chariteplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (A.K.); (I.S.)
| | - Baldwyn Torto
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Nairobi P.O. Box 30772-00100, Kenya; (D.C.A.O.); (D.P.T.); (E.O.O.); (J.O.); (B.T.)
| | - Sandra Junglen
- Institute of Virology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Free University Berlin, Humboldt-University Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Chariteplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (A.K.); (I.S.)
| | - Rosemary Sang
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Nairobi P.O. Box 30772-00100, Kenya; (D.C.A.O.); (D.P.T.); (E.O.O.); (J.O.); (B.T.)
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9
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Sokolovska L, Isaguliants M, Buonaguro FM. Proceedings of the Online Conference "Vaccines and Vaccination during and Post COVID Pandemics" (7-9 December 2022). Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1175. [PMID: 37514990 PMCID: PMC10383049 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11071175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic put focus on various aspects of vaccine research and development. These include mass vaccination strategies, vaccination compliance and hesitancy, acceptance of novel vaccine approaches, preclinical and animal models used to assess vaccine safety and efficacy, and many other related issues. These issues were addressed by the international online conference "Vaccines and Vaccination During and Post COVID Pandemics" (VAC&VAC 2022) held on the platform of Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia. Conference was supported by the International Society for Vaccines, the National Cancer Institute "Fondazione Pascale" (Naples, Italy), and the scientific journal VACCINES (mdpi). VAC&VAC 2022 attracted nearly 150 participants from 14 countries. This report summarizes conference presentations and their discussion. Sessions covered the topics of (1) COVID-19 vaccine development, evaluation, and attitude towards these vaccines, (2) HPV and cancer vaccines, (3) progress and challenges of HIV vaccine development, (4) new and re-emerging infectious threats, and (5) novel vaccine vehicles, adjuvants, and carriers. Each session was introduced by a plenary lecture from renowned experts from leading research institutions worldwide. The conference also included sessions on research funding and grant writing and an early career researcher contest in which the winners received monetary awards and a chance to publish their results free of charge in the special issue of VACCINES covering the meeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liba Sokolovska
- Institute of Microbiology and Virology, Riga Stradins University, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
| | - Maria Isaguliants
- Institute of Microbiology and Virology, Riga Stradins University, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
| | - Franco M Buonaguro
- Experimental Oncology Department, National Cancer Institute 'Fondazione Pascale', 80131 Naples, Italy
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10
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Bonnet SI, Bertagnoli S, Falchi A, Figoni J, Fite J, Hoch T, Quillery E, Moutailler S, Raffetin A, René-Martellet M, Vourc’h G, Vial L. An Update of Evidence for Pathogen Transmission by Ticks of the Genus Hyalomma. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040513. [PMID: 37111399 PMCID: PMC10146795 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Current and likely future changes in the geographic distribution of ticks belonging to the genus Hyalomma are of concern, as these ticks are believed to be vectors of many pathogens responsible for human and animal diseases. However, we have observed that for many pathogens there are no vector competence experiments, and that the level of evidence provided by the scientific literature is often not sufficient to validate the transmission of a specific pathogen by a specific Hyalomma species. We therefore carried out a bibliographical study to collate the validation evidence for the transmission of parasitic, viral, or bacterial pathogens by Hyalomma spp. ticks. Our results show that there are very few validated cases of pathogen transmission by Hyalomma tick species.
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11
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Abstract
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a severe tick-borne illness with a wide geographical distribution and case fatality rates of 30% or higher. Caused by infection with the CCHF virus (CCHFV), cases are reported throughout Africa, the Middle East, Asia and southern and eastern Europe. The expanding range of the Hyalomma tick vector is placing new populations at risk for CCHF, and no licensed vaccines or specific antivirals exist to treat CCHF. Furthermore, despite cases of CCHF being reported annually, the host and viral determinants of CCHFV pathogenesis are poorly understood. CCHFV can productively infect a multitude of animal species, yet only humans develop a severe illness. Within human populations, subclinical infections are underappreciated and may represent a substantial proportion of clinical outcomes. Compared with other members of the Bunyavirales order, CCHFV has a more complex genomic organization, with many viral proteins having unclear functions in viral pathogenesis. In recent years, improved animal models have led to increased insights into CCHFV pathogenesis, and several antivirals and vaccines for CCHFV have shown robust efficacy in preclinical models. Translation of these insights and candidate therapeutics to the clinic will hopefully reduce the morbidity and mortality caused by CCHFV.
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12
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Atim SA, Niebel M, Ashraf S, Vudriko P, Odongo S, Balinandi S, Aber P, Bameka R, Ademun AR, Masembe C, Tweyongyere R, Thomson EC. Prevalence of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever in livestock following a confirmed human case in Lyantonde district, Uganda. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:7. [PMID: 36611216 PMCID: PMC9824997 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05588-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne viral infection, characterized by haemorrhagic fever in humans and transient asymptomatic infection in animals. It is an emerging human health threat causing sporadic outbreaks in Uganda. We conducted a detailed outbreak investigation in the animal population following the death from CCHF of a 42-year-old male cattle trader in Lyantonde district, Uganda. This was to ascertain the extent of CCHF virus (CCHFV) circulation among cattle and goats and to identify affected farms and ongoing increased environmental risk for future human infections. METHODS We collected blood and tick samples from 117 cattle and 93 goats, and tested these for anti-CCHFV antibodies and antigen using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and target enrichment next generation sequencing. RESULTS CCHFV-specific IgG antibodies were detected in 110/117 (94.0%) cattle and 83/93 (89.3%) goats. Animal seropositivity was independently associated with female animals (AOR = 9.42, P = 0.002), and animals reared under a pastoral animal production system (AOR = 6.02, P = 0.019] were more likely to be seropositive than tethered or communally grazed animals. CCHFV was detected by sequencing in Rhipicephalus appendiculatus ticks but not in domestic animals. CONCLUSION This investigation demonstrated very high seroprevalence of CCHFV antibodies in both cattle and goats in farms associated with a human case of CCHF in Lyantonde. Therefore, building surveillance programs for CCHF around farms in this area and the Ugandan cattle corridor is indicated, in order to identify opportunities for case prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella A Atim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Centre of Virus Research (CVR), University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Marc Niebel
- Centre of Virus Research (CVR), University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Shirin Ashraf
- Centre of Virus Research (CVR), University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Patrick Vudriko
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Steven Odongo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Stephen Balinandi
- Department of Emerging, Re-Emerging and Arbovirus Infections, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Peace Aber
- Case Western Research Collaboration, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ronald Bameka
- Lyantonde District Local Government, Lyantonde, Uganda
| | - Anna R Ademun
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Charles Masembe
- College of Natural Resources (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robert Tweyongyere
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emma C Thomson
- Centre of Virus Research (CVR), University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Stoker Building, 464 Bearsden Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK.
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13
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Lule SA, Gibb R, Kizito D, Nakanjako G, Mutyaba J, Balinandi S, Owen L, Jones KE, Abubakar I, Lutwama JJ, Field N. Widespread exposure to Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever in Uganda might be driven by transmission from Rhipicephalus ticks: Evidence from cross-sectional and modelling studies. J Infect 2022; 85:683-692. [PMID: 36152736 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2022.09.016] [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: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a widespread tick-borne viral infection, present across Africa and Eurasia, which might pose a cryptic public health problem in Uganda. We aimed to understand the magnitude and distribution of CCHF risk in humans, livestock and ticks across Uganda by synthesising epidemiological (cross-sectional) and ecological (modelling) studies. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study at three urban abattoirs receiving cattle from across Uganda. We sampled humans (n = 478), livestock (n = 419) and ticks (n = 1065) and used commercially-available kits to detect human and livestock CCHF virus (CCHFV) antibodies and antigen in tick pools. We developed boosted regression tree models to evaluate the correlates and geographical distribution of expected tick and wildlife hosts, and of human CCHF exposures, drawing on continent-wide data. FINDINGS The cross-sectional study found CCHFV IgG/IgM seroprevalence in humans of 10·3% (7·8-13·3), with antibody detection positively associated with reported history of tick bite (age-adjusted odds ratio = 2·09 (1·09-3·98)). Cattle had a seroprevalence of 69·7% (65·1-73·4). Only one Hyalomma tick (CCHFV-negative) was found. However, CCHFV antigen was detected in Rhipicephalus (5·9% of 304 pools) and Amblyomma (2·9% of 34 pools) species. Modelling predicted high human CCHF risk across much of Uganda, low environmental suitability for Hyalomma, and high suitability for Rhipicephalus and Amblyomma. INTERPRETATION Our epidemiological and ecological studies provide complementary evidence that CCHF exposure risk is widespread across Uganda. We challenge the idea that Hyalomma ticks are consistently the principal reservoir and vector for CCHFV, and postulate that Rhipicephalus might be important for CCHFV transmission in Uganda, due to high frequency of infected ticks and predicted environmental suitability. FUNDING UCL Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF) and Pan-African Network on Emerging and Re-Emerging Infections (PANDORA-ID-NET) funded by the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP) under the EU Horizon 2020 Framework Programme for Research and Innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swaib A Lule
- Institute for Global Health (IGH), University College London, London, UK
| | - Rory Gibb
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dennison Kizito
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases (DAERID), Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Gladys Nakanjako
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases (DAERID), Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Mutyaba
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases (DAERID), Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Stephen Balinandi
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases (DAERID), Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Leah Owen
- Institute for Global Health (IGH), 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
| | - Ibrahim Abubakar
- Institute for Global Health (IGH), University College London, London, UK
| | - Julius J Lutwama
- Department of Arbovirology, Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases (DAERID), Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Nigel Field
- Institute for Global Health (IGH), University College London, London, UK.
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14
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Vesga JF, Métras R, Clark MHA, Ayazi E, Apolloni A, Leslie T, Msimang V, Thompson PN, John Edmunds W. Vaccine efficacy trials for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever: Insights from modelling different epidemiological settings. Vaccine 2022; 40:5806-5813. [PMID: 36058795 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.08.061] [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: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a priority emerging pathogen for which a licensed vaccine is not yet available. We aim to assess the feasibility of conducting phase III vaccine efficacy trials and the role of varying transmission dynamics. METHODS We calibrate models of CCHF virus (CCHFV) transmission among livestock and spillover to humans in endemic areas in Afghanistan, Turkey and South Africa. We propose an individual randomised controlled trial targeted to high-risk population, and use the calibrated models to simulate trial cohorts to estimate the minimum necessary number of cases (trial endpoints) to analyse a vaccine with a minimum efficacy of 60%, under different conditions of sample size and follow-up time in the three selected settings. RESULTS A mean follow-up of 160,000 person-month (75,000-550,000) would be necessary to accrue the required 150 trial endpoints for a target vaccine efficacy of 60 % and clinically defined endpoint, in a setting like Herat, Afghanistan. For Turkey, the same would be achieved with a mean follow-up of 175,000 person-month (50,000-350,000). The results suggest that for South Africa the low endemic transmission levels will not permit achieving the necessary conditions for conducting this trial within a realistic follow-up time. In the scenario of CCHFV vaccine trial designed to capture infection as opposed to clinical case as a trial endpoint, the required person-months is reduced by 70 % to 80 % in Afghanistan and Turkey, and in South Africa, a trial becomes feasible for a large number of person-months of follow-up (>600,000). Increased expected vaccine efficacy > 60 % will reduce the required number of trial endpoints and thus the sample size and follow-time in phase III trials. CONCLUSIONS Underlying endemic transmission levels will play a central role in defining the feasibility of phase III vaccine efficacy trials. Endemic settings in Afghanistan and Turkey offer conditions under which such studies could feasibly be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Vesga
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Raphaelle Métras
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique (Unité Mixte de Recherche en Santé 1136), Paris, France
| | - Madeleine H A Clark
- Integrated Understanding of Health, Research Strategy and Programmes, Biotechnology and Biosciences Research Council, Swindon, UK
| | - Edris Ayazi
- Ministry of Public Health, Massoud Square, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Andrea Apolloni
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France; ASTRE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRA, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Veerle Msimang
- Epidemiology Section, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa; Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham, South Africa
| | - Peter N Thompson
- Epidemiology Section, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - W John Edmunds
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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15
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Sado Yousseu F, Simo Tchetgna H, Kamgang B, Djonabaye D, McCall PJ, Ndip RN, Wondji CS. Infestation rates, seasonal distribution, and genetic diversity of ixodid ticks from livestock of various origins in two markets of Yaoundé, Cameroon. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 36:283-300. [PMID: 35656818 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the impact of ticks on livestock and humans in Cameroon. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, seasonal variation, and genetic diversity of hard ticks in the country. Ticks were collected during a cross-sectional survey on domestic livestock in two markets of Yaoundé in 2019 and 2020 and identified using morphological keys, 16S ribosomal DNA, (16S rDNA), and the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (Cox1) genes. The infestation rates were 39.18%, 11.53%, and 2.74% in cattle, sheep, and goats respectively. Three genera of ticks were identified, Rhipicephalus, Amblyomma, and Hyalomma comprising eleven tick species. The main species were Rhipicephalus decoloratus (30.25%), R. microplus (24.43%), and Amblyomma variegatum (12.96%). Rhipicephalus spp. (81.31%) and Amblyomma variegatum (51.54%) were abundant during the rainy season, while Hyalomma spp. (83.86%) during the dry season (p-value <0.00001). Cox1 and 16S rDNA analysis showed a high level of genetic diversity among tick species with sequences close to those observed across Africa. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that our R. microplus belong to clade A and we identified R. sanguineus s.l. as R. linnea. This study shows a high tick infestation rate in cattle, while low in small ruminants with an extensive diversity of tick species, including several known vectors of important tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francine Sado Yousseu
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Huguette Simo Tchetgna
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Basile Kamgang
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Doumani Djonabaye
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Biochemistry, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Philip J McCall
- Vector Biology Department, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Roland Ndip Ndip
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Charles S Wondji
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Vector Biology Department, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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16
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Bernard C, Holzmuller P, Bah MT, Bastien M, Combes B, Jori F, Grosbois V, Vial L. Systematic Review on Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Enzootic Cycle and Factors Favoring Virus Transmission: Special Focus on France, an Apparently Free-Disease Area in Europe. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:932304. [PMID: 35928117 PMCID: PMC9343853 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.932304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a viral zoonotic disease resulting in hemorrhagic syndrome in humans. Its causative agent is naturally transmitted by ticks to non-human vertebrate hosts within an enzootic sylvatic cycle. Ticks are considered biological vectors, as well as reservoirs for CCHF virus (CCHFV), as they are able to maintain the virus for several months or even years and to transmit CCHFV to other ticks. Although animals are not symptomatic, some of them can sufficiently replicate the virus, becoming a source of infection for ticks as well as humans through direct contact with contaminated body fluids. The recent emergence of CCHF in Spain indicates that tick–human interaction rates promoting virus transmission are changing and lead to the emergence of CCHF. In other European countries such as France, the presence of one of its main tick vectors and the detection of antibodies targeting CCHFV in animals, at least in Corsica and in the absence of human cases, suggest that CCHFV could be spreading silently. In this review, we study the CCHFV epidemiological cycle as hypothesized in the French local context and select the most likely parameters that may influence virus transmission among tick vectors and non-human vertebrate hosts. For this, a total of 1,035 articles dating from 1957 to 2021 were selected for data extraction. This study made it possible to identify the tick species that seem to be the best candidate vectors of CCHFV in France, but also to highlight the importance of the abundance and composition of local host communities on vectors' infection prevalence. Regarding the presumed transmission cycle involving Hyalomma marginatum, as it might exist in France, at least in Corsica, it is assumed that tick vectors are still weakly infected and the probability of disease emergence in humans remains low. The likelihood of factors that may modify this equilibrium is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Célia Bernard
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France
- ASTRE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
- French Establishment for Fighting Zoonoses (ELIZ), Malzéville, France
- *Correspondence: Célia Bernard
| | - Philippe Holzmuller
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France
- ASTRE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | - Madiou Thierno Bah
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France
- ASTRE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | - Matthieu Bastien
- French Establishment for Fighting Zoonoses (ELIZ), Malzéville, France
| | - Benoit Combes
- French Establishment for Fighting Zoonoses (ELIZ), Malzéville, France
| | - Ferran Jori
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France
- ASTRE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | - Vladimir Grosbois
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France
- ASTRE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | - Laurence Vial
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France
- ASTRE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
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Cicculli V, Maitre A, Ayhan N, Mondoloni S, Paoli JC, Vial L, de Lamballerie XN, Charrel R, Falchi A. Lack of Evidence for Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus in Ticks Collected from Animals, Corsica, France. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:1035-1038. [PMID: 35447051 PMCID: PMC9045455 DOI: 10.3201/eid2805.211996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In Corsica, France, 9.1% of livestock serum samples collected during 2014–2016 were found to have antibodies against Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), an emerging tickborne zoonotic disease. We tested 8,051 ticks for CCHFV RNA and Nairovirus RNA. The results indicate that Corsica is not a hotspot for CCHFV.
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Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Cattle of Smallholder Farmers in Central Malawi. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10121613. [PMID: 34959568 PMCID: PMC8709441 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10121613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is endemic in Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe where it circulates among animals and ticks causing sporadic outbreaks in humans. Although CCHF is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa, epidemiological information is lacking in many countries, including Malawi. To assess the risk of CCHF in Malawi, we conducted an epidemiological study in cattle reared by smallholder livestock farmers in central Malawi. A cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2020 involving seven districts, four from Kasungu and three from Lilongwe Agriculture Development Divisions. A structured questionnaire was administered to farmers to obtain demographic, animal management, and ecological risk factors data. Sera were collected from randomly selected cattle and screened for CCHF virus (CCHFV) specific antibodies using a commercial ELISA kit. Ticks were collected from cattle and classified morphologically to species level. An overall CCHFV seropositivity rate of 46.9% (n = 416; 95% CI: 42.0–51.8%) was observed. The seropositivity was significantly associated with the age of cattle (p < 0.001), sex (p < 0.001), presence of ticks in herds (p = 0.01), district (p = 0.025), and type of grazing lands (p = 0.013). Five species of ticks were identified, including Hyalomma truncatum, a known vector of CCHFV. Ticks of the species Hyalomma truncatum were not detected in two districts with the highest seroprevalence for CCHF and vector competency must be further explored in the study area. To our knowledge, this is the first report of serologic evidence of the presence of CCHV among smallholder cattle in central Malawi. This study emphasizes the need for continued monitoring of CCHFV infection among livestock, ticks, and humans for the development of data-based risk mitigation strategies.
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