One Health assessment of persistent organic chemicals and PFAS for consumption of restored anadromous fish

BACKGROUND

Restoration efforts have led to the return of anadromous fish, potential source of food for the Penobscot Indian Nation, to the previously dammed Penobscot River, Maine.

OBJECTIVE

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Penobscot Indian Nation's Department of Natural Resources (PINDNR), and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), measured contaminants in six species of anadromous fish. Fish tissue concentrations were then used, along with exposure parameters, to evaluate potential human and aquatic-dependent wildlife risk.

METHODS

PINDNR collected, filleted, froze, and shipped fish for analysis of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), dioxins/furans, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Contaminant levels were compared to reference doses (where possible) and wildlife values (WVs).

RESULTS

Chemical concentrations ranged from 6.37 nanogram per gram (ng/g) wet weight (ww) in American Shad roe to 100 ng/g ww in Striped Bass for total PCBs; 0.851 ng/g ww in American Shad roe to 5.92 ng/g ww in large Rainbow Smelt for total PBDEs; and 0.037 ng/g ww in American Shad roe to 0.221 ng/g ww in Striped Bass for total dioxin/furans. PFAS concentrations ranged between 0.38 ng/g ww of PFBA in Alewife to 7.86 ng/g ww of PFUnA in Sea Lamprey. Dioxin/furans and PFOS levels indicated that there are potential human health risks. The WV for mink for total PCBs (72 ng/g) was exceeded in Striped Bass and the WV for Kestrel for PBDEs (8.7 ng/g) was exceeded in large Rainbow Smelt. Mammalian wildlife consuming Blueback Herring, Striped Bass, and Sea Lamprey may be at risk based on PFOS WVs from Canada.

IMPACT

Anadromous fish returning to the Penobscot River potentially could represent the restoration of a major component of tribal traditional diet. However, information about contaminant levels in these fish is needed to guide the tribe about consumption safety. Analysis of select species of fish and risk calculations demonstrated the need for a protective approach to consumption for both humans and wildlife. This project demonstrates that wildlife can also be impacted by contamination of fish and their risks can be as great or greater than those of humans. A One Health approach addresses this discrepancy and will lead to a healthier ecosystem.

Brief review on ebola virus disease and one health approach

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a severe and highly fatal zoonotic disease caused by viruses in the family Filoviridae and genus Ebolavirus. The disease first appeared in Zaire near the Ebola River in 1976, now in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since then, several outbreaks have been reported in different parts of the world, mainly in Africa, leading to the identification of six distinct viral strains that cause disease in humans and other primates. Bats are assumed to be the main reservoir hosts of the virus, and the initial incidence of human epidemics invariably follows exposure to infected forest animals through contact or consumption of bush meat and body fluids of forest animals harboring the disease. Human-to-human transmission occurs when contaminated body fluids, utensils, and equipment come in contact with broken or abraded skin and mucous membranes. EVD is characterized by sudden onset of 'flu-like' symptoms (fever, myalgia, chills), vomiting and diarrhea, then disease rapidly evolves into a severe state with a rapid clinical decline which may lead potential hemorrhagic complications and multiple organ failure. Effective EVD prevention, detection, and response necessitate strong coordination across the animal, human, and environmental health sectors, as well as well-defined roles and responsibilities evidencing the significance of one health approach; the natural history, epidemiology, pathogenesis, and diagnostic procedures of the Ebola virus, as well as prevention and control efforts in light of one health approach, are discussed in this article.

Facilitating implementation of the one health approach: A definition of a one health intervention

The last two decades has witnessed a disruption of socio-economic, security and political foundation worldwide due to surging of health events arising at the ecosystem, animal and human interface. The unprecedent magnitude of these events has led to the adoption of One Health approach. Several theoretical definitions and an operational one were released to help common user to understand the approach. To provide evidence of the impact of implementing the One Health approach and to assess the process outputs, a definition of a One Health intervention is required. We are proposing a definition and characteristics of a One Health intervention which will complement the operational definition of the One Health approach by the One Health High-Level Expert Panel.

Review on the environmental impact of emissions from space launches: a case study for areas affected by the Russian space programme

In this paper, we summarised the main field-based approaches and a large volume of data on the territories affected by the Russian space programme conducted at Plesetsk, Baikonur, and Vostochny cosmodromes. Influence of space transportation on the ozone layer depletion, as well as on environmental and human health, is negligible. The environmental consequences of rocket and space activities within launch pads and the terrestrial drop zones of jettisoned first stages of launch vehicles are allowable. Moreover, it is negligible in the second stage drop zones. Unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine pollution is local and does not result in the formation of ecological disaster zones because ecosystems restore by themselves. Influence of rocket launches on the mesospheric cloud formation is short-time or/and insignificant. The environmental impact of space transportation by the Russian space programme on the terrestrial ecosystems is well-studied. To approve or to disprove these findings similar researches should be carried out in other terrestrial and aquatic drop zones affected due to the space programmes of other countries.

Protocol of conjugate evaluation of the biological activity of soils in terms of cellulolytic activity and biological consumption of oxygen

The article presents protocols for determining the biological activity of kerosene-contaminated soils in terms of two indicators, i.e. cellulolytic activity and biological consumption of oxygen. A method for determining the cellulolytic activity of soils is based on measuring the rate of cellulose decomposition in situ. Model test objects (linen fragments 10 × 20 cm weighing 4–6 g) were put in the root layer of soil. A month later, the linen was removed from soil and its weight loss was measured. Cellulolytic activity was estimated by the weight loss of readily hydrolysable organic matter (RHOM) per day (mg/g RHOM per day). The method for determining the biological consumption of oxygen of water was adapted for soils. The indicator characterizes the ability of microorganisms to oxidize organic substances using oxygen for 5 days. The analytic procedure includes taking a soil sample, preparing the suspension (the ratio of soil to distilled water is at least 1:10) and after 5 days measuring the concentration of unspent dissolved oxygen using the oxygen meter. The proposed methods give reproducible and reliable results on the biochemical activity of soil microorganisms in a wide range of soils, e.g. Retisols, Arenosols and Histosols, including those under hydrocarbon pollution.

Diagnosis and Perspectives in the One Health Approach

Toxoplasmosis is a unique health disease that significantly affects the health of humans, domestic animals, wildlife and is present in ecosystems, including water, soil and food. Toxoplasma gondii is one of the best-adapted parasites in the word. This parasite is able to persist for long periods in its hosts, in different geographic regions of the word. This review summarizes the current literature of these themes, focusing on: (1) toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic infection; (2) One health approach and toxoplasmosis; (3) human toxoplasmosis; (4) animal toxoplasmosis; (5) toxoplasmosis diagnosis, as immunological, parasitological and molecular diagnosis; (6) T. gondii outbreaks caused by infected meat, milk and dairy products, as well as, vegetables and water consume; (7) studies in experimental models; (8) genetic characterization of T. gondii strains; (9) extracellular vesicles and miRNA; and (10) future perspectives on T. gondii and toxoplasmosis. The vast prevalence of toxoplasmosis in both humans and animals and the dispersion and resistence of T. gondii parasites in environment highlight the importance of the one health approach in diagnostic and control of the disease. Here the different aspects of the one health approach are presented and discussed.

First detection of an Italian human-to-cat outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 Alpha variant - lineage B.1.1.7

The emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants and their rapid spread pose a threat to both human and animal health and may conceal unknown risks. This report describes an Italian human-to-cat outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 lineage B.1.1.7 (the Alpha variant) . On March 7th, 2021, approximately ten days after COVID-19 appeared in the family, the onset of respiratory signs in a cat by COVID-19-affected owners led to an in-depth diagnostic investigation, combining clinical and serological data with rt-qPCR-based virus detection and whole genome sequencing. The Alpha variant was confirmed first in the owners and a few days later in the cat that was then monitored weekly: the course was similar with one-week lag time in the cat. In addition, based on comparative analysis of genome sequences from our study and from 200 random Italian cases of Alpha variant, the familial cluster was confirmed. The temporal sequence along with the genomic data support a human-to-animal transmission. Such an event emphasizes the importance of studying the circulation and dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 variants in humans and animals to better understand and prevent potential spillover risks or unwarranted alerts involving our pet populations.

Antimicrobial resistance national level dialogue and action in Ghana: setting and sustaining the agenda and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has gained national and international attention. The design and launch of national policy on antimicrobial use and resistance and action plan marked a milestone in Ghana's commitment to control AMR. These strategies are some outcomes of getting and sustaining AMR issues prominence on government's agenda. Understanding the agenda setting processes, policy actors involved and policy change is important as this provides insights on how and why policy actors defined and framed AMR issues to sustain its prominence despite the changing priorities of government agenda.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the processes of setting and sustaining AMR issues on government agenda, the policy actors involved and resulting outcomes.

METHODS

A qualitative study was conducted and data collected through interviewing twenty-four respondents and reviewing technical working group meeting reports and health sector documents. Data was analysed drawing on Kingdon's agenda setting framework.

RESULT

Members of a multisectoral technical working group (AMR platform) formed in 2011 constantly built consensus on AMR problem definition, solutions and actively engaged decision makers to mobilise support and interest. The AMR platform members sustained AMR attention and prominence on government's agenda through the following multisectoral coordination mechanisms: (1) institutionalising AMR platform activities (2) gathering evidence, sharing findings, and supporting research (3) creating awareness and training (4) gaining and maintaining political support. The activities of the AMR platform contributed to three remarkable outcomes and these are (1) maintained network of AMR Champions, (2) design of a national policy on antimicrobial use and resistance in Ghana (1st edition) and national action plan (2017-2021), and (3) Ghana's hosting of the second Global call to action on AMR.

CONCLUSION

The AMR platform members as influencers concentrated their efforts to move and sustain AMR issues on government agenda. The identified multisectoral coordination mechanisms collectively contributed to agenda setting processes and policy change. The AMR platform engagements are ongoing and it is important the momentum is maintained. As multisectoral coordination and activities are vital especially for AMR 'One Health' approach, we hope this paper presents lessons for better understanding of how and why multisectoral groups influence national level agenda setting processes.

Bushmeat, wet markets, and the risks of pandemics: Exploring the nexus through systematic review of scientific disclosures

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is the third coronavirus this century to threaten human health, killing more than two million people globally. Like previous coronaviruses, SARS-CoV-2 is suspected to have wildlife origins and was possibly transmitted to humans via wet markets selling bushmeat (aka harvested wild meat). Thus, an interdisciplinary framework is vital to address the nexus between bushmeat, wet markets, and disease. We reviewed the contemporary scientific literature to: (1) assess disease surveillance efforts within the bushmeat trade and wet markets globally by compiling zoonotic health risks based on primarily serological examinations; and (2) gauge perceptions of health risks associated with bushmeat and wet markets. Of the 58 species of bushmeat investigated across 15 countries in the 52 articles that we analyzed,one or more pathogens (totaling 60 genera of pathogens) were reported in 48 species, while no zoonotic pathogens were reported in 10 species based on serology. Burden of disease data was nearly absent from the articles resulting from our Scopus search, and therefore was not included in our analyses. We also found that perceived health risks associated with bushmeat was low, though we could not perform statistical analyses due to the lack of quantitative perception-based studies. After screening the literature, our results showed that the global distribution of reported bushmeat studies were biased towards Africa, revealing data deficiencies across Asia and South America despite the prevalence of the bushmeat trade across the Global South. Studies targeting implications of the bushmeat trade on human health can help address these data deficiencies across Asia and South America. We further illustrate the need to address the nexus between bushmeat, wet markets, and disease to help prevent future outbreaks of zoonotic diseases under the previously proposed "One Health Framework", which integrates human, animal, and environmental health. By tackling these three pillars, we discuss the current policy gaps and recommend suitable measures to prevent future disease outbreaks.

Easy Access to Antibiotics; Spread of Antimicrobial Resistance and Implementation of One Health Approach in India

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health concern because of its fast spread. India, one of the world's top consumer of antibiotics and second most populated country has its unique constraints of social, cultural and economic strata. The continual self-medication, use of antibiotics for the growth promotion in animals, and accumulation of residual antibiotics in the environment challenge the implementation of AMR containment policy. Hence, the present review attempts to delineate the influence of antibiotics abuse on the human, animal and environmental health under the realm of one health. It was based on the literature search using public databases to highlight the rapid surge in the burden of AMR in India affecting various sectors and/or ecosystems in India. It was found that the irrational and overuse of antibiotics in different sectors have led to the emergence of extended antimicrobial resistance wherein the environment acts as a reservoir of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs); completing the cycle of contamination and recontamination. There are efforts by government policy makers to reduce the burden of AMR in the country to reduce the health risks, through the One Health approach. Parallel efforts in educating healthcare professionals, strict legislation for pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies should be prioritize. At the same time surveillance of newly emerged AMR pathogens, prioritising research focusing on AMR, and awareness camps or programs among the local population is critical while addressing the consequences of spared of AMR in India.

Sero-epidemiology and associated risk factors of brucellosis among sheep and goat population in the south western Nepal: a comparative study

BACKGROUND

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella spp. In Nepal, the presence of brucellosis in small ruminants, namely sheep and goats, has impacted farmers' livelihood and the food safety of consumers. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Rupandehi district of Nepal during January to March 2020 to investigate the seroepidemiology and associated risk factors of brucellosis in the sheep and goat population. Altogether, 19 sheep and 60 goat farms in the district were visited. Owners were interviewed to get information on animals, including their management and movement patterns. Three hundred fifty-seven samples (80 sheep and 277 goat samples) were collected proportionately based on farm sizes. Each serum sample was tested with Rose Bengal Test and ELISA to estimate the seropositivity of brucellosis. Logistic regression was carried out to calculate corresponding odds ratios of each variable associated with detection of brucellosis.

RESULTS

At the farm level, 31.6% (6/19; 95% CI: 12, 54%) of sheep farms and 3.3% (2/60, 95% CI: 0.9, 11.4%) of goat farms were seropositive to brucellosis. Out of 80 sheep serum samples, 12 (15%; 95% CI: 8.79-24.41%) and out of 277 goat serum samples, three (1.1%; 95% CI: 0.37-3.14%) were seropositive to brucellosis. Age greater than 1.5 years (OR = 5.56, 95% CI: 1.39, 29.38; p = 0.02) and herd size of greater than 100 (OR = 4.74, 95% CI: 1.23, 20.32, p = 0.03) were identified as significant risk factors for seropositivity of brucellosis in the sheep population. While in the goat population, none of the variables was identified as a significant risk factor.

CONCLUSION

The study provides evidence that the older sheep and the sheep from the large herds were at higher risk of brucellosis. A control program should be put in place immediately in the sheep population because they may transmit infections to other livestock as they were regularly moved for grazing and selling purposes. Also, strict biosecurity measures should be implemented among pastoralists to prevent brucellosis transmission in them. We suggest further one health-based study to reveal the transmission dynamics of brucellosis between animals and humans.

Ebola virus outbreak preparedness plan for developing Nations: Lessons learnt from affected countries

BACKGROUND

Ebola virus (EBOV); a public health emergency of international concern,is known to pose threat of global outbreaks. EBOV has spread in African continent and due to unchecked international travel, importation of cases has been reported in different countries. In this alarming scenario, developing countries need to evaluate and upgrade their preparedness plan to contain the spread of EBOV. The present review lays down the updated preparedness plan for developing countries to contain future EBOV outbreaks.

METHODS

The literature on EBOV outbreaks and preparedness strategies reported were searched on Pubmed and Google Scholar using the MeSH terms such as "Ebola virus disease, Epidemic, Outbreak, Imported case, Preparedness, Public health interventions" combined with Boolean operator (OR) for the period of 2011-2020. Additionally, World Health organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) websites were searched for the guidelines, reports, containment strategies, containment plan of countries, actions taken by countries and international partners, etc. RESULTS: The present review analyzed the EBOV outbreaks between 2011-2020 and containment strategies used by the affected countries. Based on the lessons learned from EBOV outbreaks and personal experience in infectious disease management, we have recommended a preparedness and response plan for EBOV containment in developing countries.

CONCLUSION

Developing countries are particularly vulnerable to major outbreaks of EBOV due to increased international travel and unchecked transmission. The recommended preparedness plan will help developing counties to contain EBOV outbreaks in future.

The holistic way of tackling the COVID-19 pandemic: the one health approach

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that is causing a global pandemic had a zoonotic origin in China. Considering the inter-connectedness between human, environment, and animal health, the One Health approach is the appropriate strategy to control and mitigate the effects of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This letter explains the benefits of the One Health approach and recommends specific measures that could be taken to accelerate the fight against COVID-19 and prevent the spread of newly emerging infectious diseases.

Non-monetary numeraires: Varying the payment vehicle in a choice experiment for health interventions in Uganda

Schistosomiasis is a serious health problem in many parts of Africa which is linked to poor water quality and limited sanitation resources. We administered a discrete choice experiment on water access and health education in rural Uganda, focussing on interventions designed to reduce cases of the disease. Unlike previous studies, we included a payment vehicle of both labour hours supplied per week and money paid per month within each choice set. We were thus able to elicit both willingness to pay and willingness to work for alternative interventions. Respondents exhibit high demand for new water sources. From the random parameter model, only households with knowledge about water-borne parasites are price sensitive and exhibit willingness to pay values. Through a latent class model specification, higher income respondents exhibit higher willingness to pay values for all programme attributes; however, lower income participants have higher willingness to work values for certain new water sources. We found a shadow wage rate of labour that is between 15 and 55% of the market wage rate.

Building a functional national One Health platform: the case of Tanzania

BACKGROUND

The USAID Preparedness and Response (P&R) project's publication on Multisectoral Coordination that Works identified five dimensions most critical to creating effective and sustainable One Health platforms: political commitment, institutional structure, management and coordination capacity, technical and financial resources, and joint planning and implementation. This case study describes Tanzania experience in using these dimensions to establish a functional One Health platform. The main objective of this case study was to document the process of institutionalizing the One Health approach in Tanzania.

METHODS

An analysis of the process used to establish and institutionalize the MCM in Tanzania through addressing the five dimensions mentioned above was conducted between August 2018 and January 2019. Progress activity reports, annual reports and minutes of meetings and consultations regarding the establishment of the Tanzania national One Health platform were examined. Relevant One Health publications were studied as reference material.

RESULTS

This case study illustrates the time and level of effort required of multiple partners to build a functional multi-sectoral coordinating mechanism (MCM). Key facilitating factors were identified and the importance of involving policy and decision makers at all stages of the process to facilitate policy decisions and the institutionalization process was underscored. The need for molding the implementation process using lessons learnt along the way -- "sailing the ship as it was being built" -- is demonstrated.

CONCLUSIONS

Tanzania now has a functioning and institutionalized MCM with a sound institutional structure and capacity to prevent, detect early and respond to health events. The path to its establishment required the patient commitment of a core group of One Health champions and stakeholders along the way to examine carefully and iteratively how best to structure productive multisectoral coordination in the country. The five dimensions identified by the Preparedness and Response project may provide useful guidance to other countries working to establish functional MCM.

Understanding Giardia infections among rural communities using the one health approach

The epidemiology of giardiasis in rural villages in Peninsular Malaysia was examined in the context of the One Health triad that encompasses humans, animals and environment (i.e. river water). A cross-sectional study was carried out among five rural communities in Malaysia to determine the prevalence of Giardia duodenalis in humans, animals and river water. Fecal samples collected from humans and animals were examined by light microscopy. Water was sampled from the rivers adjacent to the target communities and investigated for the occurrence of Giardia cysts. The isolated cysts were further genotyped targeting the glutamate dehydrogenase and triosephosphate isomerase genes. The overall prevalence of G. duodenalis was 6.7% (18/269) and 4.7% (8/169) among humans and animals, respectively. Giardia cysts (mean concentration range: 0.10-5.97 cysts/L) were also found in adjacent rivers at four out of the five villages examined. At Kemensah and Kuala Pangsun, Giardia cysts were isolated from humans [rate: 3.7% each (of 54 each)], animals [rates: 6.3% (of 62) and 11.3% (of 16), respectively] and river water [average concentration of 9 samples each: 0.83±0.81 and 5.97±7.00, respectively]. For both villages at Pos Piah and Paya Lebar, 12.2% (of 98) and 6.1% (of 33) of collected human samples were infected, respectively whilst none of the collected animals samples in these villages were found to be positive. The river water samples of these two villages were also contaminated (average concentration: 0.20±0.35 (of 9) and 0.10±0.19 (of 3), respectively). In conclusion, Giardia cysts were simultaneously observed in the human-animal-environment (i.e., river water) interfaces in at least two of five studied communities highlighting a vital need to improve understanding on the interplay of transmission dynamics, the role of infected humans and animals in contaminating the water sources and the role of water as a vehicle of disease transmission in these communities. Indeed, this study illustrates the One Health approach which is to recognize that the optimal health of humans are interconnected with the well-being of animals and their environment.

One Health Approach Prospect for Integrated Control and Elimination of Visceral Leishmaniasis in Ethiopia: A Narrative Review Article

BACKGROUND

Leishmaniasis is an obligate intercellular protozoon that affects animals and human. It has zoonosis and/or anthroponosis transmission. Human and veterinary medicine, environmental science and wildlife conservation specialists have many commonalities in case of visceral leishmaniasis. Still the above disciplines respond against leishmaniasis in a separate way. The aim of this review is to indicate inter- and intra- sectoral collaboration for planning future control strategies.

METHODS

literatures written on visceral leishmaniasis and one health approach were systematically reviewed from the year 1969 to 2014 from Pub Med, Scopus, Medline and Google scholar sources.

RESULT

Such a one health approach would enhance biomedical progress; improve medical and veterinary serves, entomological control and wildlife conservation for Visceral Leishmaniasis especially in endemic areas.

CONCLUSION

Inter- and intra - sectoral collaboration in the leishmaniasis control is limited in Ethiopia. Therefore, incorporating one health approach or integrated inter- and intra - sectoral collaboration for visceral leishmaniasis control is an effective control strategy in endemic areas.