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- Kenya (11)
- Trypanosoma brucei (7)
- Trypanosomiasis (7)
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- Rift Valley fever (6)
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- Trypanosoma congolense (6)
- Trypanosomosis (6)
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- Rhipicephalus appendiculatus (4)
- Sleeping sickness (4)
- Ticks (4)
- Tsetse flies (4)
- East Africa (3)
- Rickettsia (3)
- Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense (3)
- Trypanosoma vivax (3)
- Trypsin (3)
- Tsetse fly (3)
- Vegetation (3)
- Africa (2)
- Amblyomma gemma (2)
- Animal trypanosomosis (2)
- Arboviruses (2)
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Articles 31 - 60 of 128
Full-Text Articles in Diseases
Mouse Experiments Demonstrate Differential Pathogenicity And Virulence Of Trypanosoma Brucei Rhodesiense Strains, Limo William Kipkorir, Thuita Kibuthu John, Orindi Benedict Owino, Oidho John, Shivairo Robert, Masiga Daniel, Adung'a Vincent Owino
Mouse Experiments Demonstrate Differential Pathogenicity And Virulence Of Trypanosoma Brucei Rhodesiense Strains, Limo William Kipkorir, Thuita Kibuthu John, Orindi Benedict Owino, Oidho John, Shivairo Robert, Masiga Daniel, Adung'a Vincent Owino
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Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense is the causative agent for Rhodesian human African trypanosomiasis. The disease is considered acute, but varying clinical outcomes including chronic infections have been observed. The basis for these different clinical manifestations is thought to be associated with a combination of parasite and host factors. In the current study, Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense strains responsible for varying infection outcomes were sought using mouse model. Clinical rHAT parasite isolates were subjected to PCR tests to confirm presence of the serum resistance associated (SRA) gene. Thereafter, four T. b. rhodesiense isolates were subjected to a comparative pathogenicity study using female Swiss …
Molecular Characterization Of Trypanosoma Vivax In Tsetse Flies Confirms The Presence Of The Virulent Tvv4 Genotype In Kenya: Potential Implications For The Control Of Trypanosomiasis In Shimba Hills, Faith I. Ebhodaghe, Armanda D.S. Bastos, Kevin O. Kidambasi, Shewit Kalayou, Daniel K. Masiga, Michael N. Okal
Molecular Characterization Of Trypanosoma Vivax In Tsetse Flies Confirms The Presence Of The Virulent Tvv4 Genotype In Kenya: Potential Implications For The Control Of Trypanosomiasis In Shimba Hills, Faith I. Ebhodaghe, Armanda D.S. Bastos, Kevin O. Kidambasi, Shewit Kalayou, Daniel K. Masiga, Michael N. Okal
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Trypanosoma vivax is a vector-borne protozoan parasite of livestock endemic to Africa and South America. To date, fifteen genotypes of the parasite have been described in vertebrate and insect hosts in East Africa. However, information regarding T. vivax diversity remains limited in many endemic countries in the sub-region, including Kenya. Such information could deepen insight into the local epidemiology of animal trypanosomiasis in Shimba Hills, a wildlife area in southeast Kenya where T. vivax is endemic and infects livestock. We employed two-gene conventional-PCR-sequencing and phylogenetic analysis to characterize T. vivax genotypes in tsetse flies collected between November 2018 and September …
Transmission Of ‘Candidatus Anaplasma Camelii’ To Mice And Rabbits By Camel-Specific Keds, Hippobosca Camelina, Joel L. Bargul, Kevin O. Kidambasi, Merid N. Getahun, Jandouwe Villinger, Robert S. Copeland, Jackson M. Muema, Mark Carrington, Daniel K. Masiga
Transmission Of ‘Candidatus Anaplasma Camelii’ To Mice And Rabbits By Camel-Specific Keds, Hippobosca Camelina, Joel L. Bargul, Kevin O. Kidambasi, Merid N. Getahun, Jandouwe Villinger, Robert S. Copeland, Jackson M. Muema, Mark Carrington, Daniel K. Masiga
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Anaplasmosis, caused by infection with bacteria of the genus Anaplasma, is an important veterinary and zoonotic disease. Transmission by ticks has been characterized but little is known about non-tick vectors of livestock anaplasmosis. This study investigated the presence of Anaplasma spp. in camels in northern Kenya and whether the hematophagous camel ked, Hippobosca camelina, acts as a vector. Camels (n = 976) and > 10,000 keds were sampled over a three-year study period and the presence of Anaplasma species was determined by PCR-based assays targeting the Anaplasmataceae 16S rRNA gene. Camels were infected by a single species of Anaplasma, ‘Candidatus Anaplasma …
The Potential Economic Benefits Of Controlling Trypanosomiasis Using Waterbuck Repellent Blend In Sub-Saharan Africa, Zewdu Abro, Menale Kassie, Beatrice Muriithi, Michael Okal, Daniel Masiga, Gift Wanda, Ouedraogo Gisèle, Abah Samuel, Etienne Nguertoum, Rock Aimé Nina, Philémon Mansinsa, Yahaya Adam, Mamadou Camara, Pamela Olet, Diarra Boucader, Susana Jamal, Abdoul Razak Issa Garba, Joseph Joachim Ajakaiye, Jean Felix Kinani, Mohamed Adam Hassan, Hezron Nonga, Joyce Daffa, Ambrose Gidudu, Kalinga Chilongo
The Potential Economic Benefits Of Controlling Trypanosomiasis Using Waterbuck Repellent Blend In Sub-Saharan Africa, Zewdu Abro, Menale Kassie, Beatrice Muriithi, Michael Okal, Daniel Masiga, Gift Wanda, Ouedraogo Gisèle, Abah Samuel, Etienne Nguertoum, Rock Aimé Nina, Philémon Mansinsa, Yahaya Adam, Mamadou Camara, Pamela Olet, Diarra Boucader, Susana Jamal, Abdoul Razak Issa Garba, Joseph Joachim Ajakaiye, Jean Felix Kinani, Mohamed Adam Hassan, Hezron Nonga, Joyce Daffa, Ambrose Gidudu, Kalinga Chilongo
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Trypanosomiasis is a significant productivity-limiting livestock disease in sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to poverty and food insecurity. In this paper, we estimate the potential economic gains from adopting Waterbuck Repellent Blend (WRB). The WRB is a new technology that pushes trypanosomiasis-transmitting tsetse fly away from animals, improving animals' health and increasing meat and milk productivity. We estimate the benefits of WRB on the production of meat and milk using the economic surplus approach. We obtained data from an expert elicitation survey, secondary and experimental sources. Our findings show that the adoption of WRB in 5 to 50% of the animal population …
Are The Current Animal Trypanosomiasis Management Methods In Kenya Complementary Or Substitutes? Evidence From Kwale County, Arnold Lumumbah Musungu, David Jakinda Otieno, Beatrice Wambui Muriithi, Rose Nyikal, Daniel Masiga, Michael Nyanganga Okal
Are The Current Animal Trypanosomiasis Management Methods In Kenya Complementary Or Substitutes? Evidence From Kwale County, Arnold Lumumbah Musungu, David Jakinda Otieno, Beatrice Wambui Muriithi, Rose Nyikal, Daniel Masiga, Michael Nyanganga Okal
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African animal trypanosomiasis (AAT) and its vectors, mainly tsetse, are a major constraint to livestock production in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Control efforts have been ongoing for decades, but finding a sustainable solution remains a major concern. This paper assessed the complementarity and substitutability of existing AAT management methods to inform policies toward an integrated approach. A multivariate probit (MVP) analytical technique was used to model interrelationships in the control methods from 308 randomly selected livestock keepers. The results show that the current AAT control methods are complementary and not substitutes. Furthermore, the number of years of formal education, household size, …
Indigenous Knowledge Of Rift Valley Fever Among Somali Nomadic Pastoralists And Its Implications On Public Health Delivery Approaches In Ijara Sub-County, North Eastern Kenya, Geoffrey Otieno Muga, Washington Onyango-Ouma, Rosemary Sang, Hippolyte Affognon
Indigenous Knowledge Of Rift Valley Fever Among Somali Nomadic Pastoralists And Its Implications On Public Health Delivery Approaches In Ijara Sub-County, North Eastern Kenya, Geoffrey Otieno Muga, Washington Onyango-Ouma, Rosemary Sang, Hippolyte Affognon
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Rift Valley Fever (RVF) is a zoonotic disease whose outbreak results in heavy economic and public health burdens. In East Africa, RVF is mainly experienced in arid and semi-arid areas predominantly inhabited by the pastoralists. These areas experience sudden, dra-matic epidemics of the disease at intervals of approximately 10 years, associated with widespread flooding and the resultant swarms of mosquitoes. Pastoralists’ indigenous knowledge and experience of RVF is critical for public health interventions targeting prevention and control of RVF. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design combining both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection. A total of 204 respondents …
Repurposing The Orphan Drug Nitisinone To Control The Transmission Of African Trypanosomiasis, Marcos Sterkel, Lee R. Haines, Aitor Casas-Sánchez, Vincent Owino Adung'a, Raquel J. Vionette-Amaral, Shannon Quek, Clair Rose, Mariana Silva Dos Santos, Natalia García Escude, Hanafy M. Ismail, Mark I. Paine, Seth M. Barribeau, Simon Wagstaff, James I. Macrae, Daniel Masiga, Laith Yakob, Pedro L. Oliveira, Álvaro Acosta-Serrano
Repurposing The Orphan Drug Nitisinone To Control The Transmission Of African Trypanosomiasis, Marcos Sterkel, Lee R. Haines, Aitor Casas-Sánchez, Vincent Owino Adung'a, Raquel J. Vionette-Amaral, Shannon Quek, Clair Rose, Mariana Silva Dos Santos, Natalia García Escude, Hanafy M. Ismail, Mark I. Paine, Seth M. Barribeau, Simon Wagstaff, James I. Macrae, Daniel Masiga, Laith Yakob, Pedro L. Oliveira, Álvaro Acosta-Serrano
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Tsetse transmit African trypanosomiasis, which is a disease fatal to both humans and animals. A vaccine to protect against this disease does not exist so transmission control relies on eliminating tsetse populations. Although neurotoxic insecticides are the gold standard for insect control, they negatively impact the environment and reduce populations of insect pollinator species. Here we present a promising, environment-friendly alternative to current insecticides that targets the insect tyrosine metabolism pathway. A bloodmeal contains high levels of tyrosine, which is toxic to haematophagous insects if it is not degraded and eliminated. RNA interference (RNAi) of either the first two enzymes …
Effect Of Zebra Skin-Derived Compounds On Field Catches Of The Human African Trypanosomiasis Vector Glossina Fuscipes Fuscipes, Olabimpe Y. Olaide, David P. Tchouassi, Abdullahi A. Yusuf, Christian W.W. Pirk, Daniel K. Masiga, Rajinder K. Saini, Baldwyn Torto
Effect Of Zebra Skin-Derived Compounds On Field Catches Of The Human African Trypanosomiasis Vector Glossina Fuscipes Fuscipes, Olabimpe Y. Olaide, David P. Tchouassi, Abdullahi A. Yusuf, Christian W.W. Pirk, Daniel K. Masiga, Rajinder K. Saini, Baldwyn Torto
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The riverine tsetse fly Glossina fuscipes fuscipes is a major vector of trypanosome pathogens causing African trypanosomiasis. This fly species uses a combination of olfactory and visual cues to locate its hosts. Previously, traps and targets baited with visual cues have been used in vector control, but the development of olfactory-based tools has been challenging. Recently, repellents have shown promise as olfactory-based tools in tsetse vector control. Here, we evaluated a three-component blend comprising 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one, acetophenone and geranyl acetone (blend K), previously identified as a repellent for savannah tsetse flies in zebra skin odor, on G. f. fuscipes populations. Using …
Tsetse Blood-Meal Sources, Endosymbionts And Trypanosome-Associations In The Maasai Mara National Reserve, A Wildlife-Human-Livestock Interface, Edward Edmond Makhulu, Jandouwe Villinger, Vincent Owino Adunga, Maamun M. Jeneby, Edwin Murungi Kimathi, Enock Mararo, Joseph Wang’Ang’A Oundo, Ali Abdulahi Musa, Lillian Wambua
Tsetse Blood-Meal Sources, Endosymbionts And Trypanosome-Associations In The Maasai Mara National Reserve, A Wildlife-Human-Livestock Interface, Edward Edmond Makhulu, Jandouwe Villinger, Vincent Owino Adunga, Maamun M. Jeneby, Edwin Murungi Kimathi, Enock Mararo, Joseph Wang’Ang’A Oundo, Ali Abdulahi Musa, Lillian Wambua
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African trypanosomiasis (AT) is a neglected disease of both humans and animals caused by Trypanosoma parasites, which are transmitted by obligate hematophagous tsetse flies (Glossina spp.). Knowledge on tsetse fly vertebrate hosts and the influence of tsetse endo-symbionts on trypanosome presence, especially in wildlife-human-livestock interfaces, is limited. We identified tsetse species, their blood-meal sources, and correlations between endosymbionts and trypanosome presence in tsetse flies from the trypanosome-endemic Maasai Mara National Reserve (MMNR) in Kenya. Among 1167 tsetse flies (1136 Glossina pallidipes, 31 Glossina swynnertoni) collected from 10 sampling sites, 28 (2.4%) were positive by PCR for trypanosome DNA, most (17/28) …
Shared Volatile Organic Compounds Between Camel Metabolic Products Elicits Strong Stomoxys Calcitrans Attraction, Merid Negash Getahun, Peter Ahuya, John Ngiela, Abel Orone, Daniel Masiga, Baldwyn Torto
Shared Volatile Organic Compounds Between Camel Metabolic Products Elicits Strong Stomoxys Calcitrans Attraction, Merid Negash Getahun, Peter Ahuya, John Ngiela, Abel Orone, Daniel Masiga, Baldwyn Torto
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The sources of animal odours are highly diverse, yet their ecological importance, in host–vector communication, remains unexplored. Here, using the camel (host)–Stomoxys calcitrans (vector) interaction, we collected and analyzed the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) of camels from four of its different odour sources: breath, body (skin), urine, and dung. On non-metric model multivariate analyses of VOCs we show that substantial chemo-diversity exists between metabolic products associated with an individual camel. VOCs from the four metabolic products were distinct and widely segregated. Next, we show electrophysiologically, that VOCs shared between metabolic products activated more Olfactory Sensory Neurons (OSNs) and elicited strong …
Household Tree Planting In Tigrai, Northern Ethiopia: Tree Species, Purposes, And Tenure Security, Zenebe Gebreegziabher, Alemu Mekonnen, Menale Kassie, Gunnar Köhlin
Household Tree Planting In Tigrai, Northern Ethiopia: Tree Species, Purposes, And Tenure Security, Zenebe Gebreegziabher, Alemu Mekonnen, Menale Kassie, Gunnar Köhlin
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Trees on farms have multiple roles in rural livelihoods, providing significant economic and ecological benefits. Trees on farms also constitute vital components in mixed crop-livestock-tree systems. In this paper, we analyze household tree planting and tenure security and explore the most important determinants that enhance the propensity to plant trees, using a cross-sectional household-level dataset from a sample of 200 households in the highlands of Tigrai, northern Ethiopia. Specifically, we employ a sample selection model that simultaneously takes into account the two decisions of tree growers (whether or not to plant tree and how many) to analyze the effect of …
Prevalence Of Trypanosomes Associated With Drug Resistance In Shimba Hills, Kwale County, Kenya, Benard W. Kulohoma, Sarah A.O. Wamwenje, Ibrahim I. Wangwe, Nicodemus Masila, Caroline K. Mirieri, Lillian Wambua
Prevalence Of Trypanosomes Associated With Drug Resistance In Shimba Hills, Kwale County, Kenya, Benard W. Kulohoma, Sarah A.O. Wamwenje, Ibrahim I. Wangwe, Nicodemus Masila, Caroline K. Mirieri, Lillian Wambua
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Objective: Animal African trypanosomiasis (AAT) is a life-threatening vector-borne disease, caused by trypanosome parasites, which are principally transmitted by tsetse flies. In Kenya, the prevalence of drug-resistant trypanosomes in endemic regions remains poorly understood. The objective of this study was to establish AAT point prevalence, drug susceptibility of associated trypanosomes, and measure infectivity by multiple AAT mammalian hosts to tsetse flies in Shimba hills, a resource-poor region with high bovine trypanosomiasis prevalence and morbidity rates at the coast of Kenya. We collected tsetse flies using traps (1 Ngu and 2 biconical), and then sorted them on sex and species. Trypanosomes …
High Risk For Human Exposure To Rift Valley Fever Virus In Communities Living Along Livestock Movement Routes: A Cross-Sectional Survey In Kenya, Caroline Tigoi, Rosemary Sang, Edith Chepkorir, Benedict Orindi, Samuel Okello Arum, Francis Mulwa, Gladys Mosomtai, Samson Limbaso, Osama A. Hassan, Zephania Irura, Clas Ahlm, Magnus Evander
High Risk For Human Exposure To Rift Valley Fever Virus In Communities Living Along Livestock Movement Routes: A Cross-Sectional Survey In Kenya, Caroline Tigoi, Rosemary Sang, Edith Chepkorir, Benedict Orindi, Samuel Okello Arum, Francis Mulwa, Gladys Mosomtai, Samson Limbaso, Osama A. Hassan, Zephania Irura, Clas Ahlm, Magnus Evander
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Introduction Multiple outbreaks of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) with devastating effects have occurred in East Africa. These outbreaks cause disease in both livestock and humans and affect poor households most severely. Communities living in areas practicing nomadic livestock movement may be at higher risk of infection. This study sought to i) determine the human exposure to Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) in populations living within nomadic animal movement routes in Kenya; and ii) identify risk factors for RVFV infection in these communities. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used. Samples were collected from the year 2014 to 2015 in …
Comparative Genomic Analysis Of Six Glossina Genomes, Vectors Of African Trypanosomes, Geoffrey M. Attardo, Adly M.M. Abd-Alla, Alvaro Acosta-Serrano, James E. Allen, Rosemary Bateta, Joshua B. Benoit, Kostas Bourtzis, Jelle Caers, Guy Caljon, Mikkel B. Christensen, David W. Farrow, Markus Friedrich, Aurélie Hua-Van, Emily C. Jennings, Denis M. Larkin, Daniel Lawson, Michael J. Lehane, Vasileios P. Lenis, Ernesto Lowy-Gallego, Rosaline W. Macharia, Anna R. Malacrida, Heather G. Marco, Daniel Masiga, Gareth L. Maslen, Irina Matetovici, Richard P. Meisel, Irene Meki, Veronika Michalkova
Comparative Genomic Analysis Of Six Glossina Genomes, Vectors Of African Trypanosomes, Geoffrey M. Attardo, Adly M.M. Abd-Alla, Alvaro Acosta-Serrano, James E. Allen, Rosemary Bateta, Joshua B. Benoit, Kostas Bourtzis, Jelle Caers, Guy Caljon, Mikkel B. Christensen, David W. Farrow, Markus Friedrich, Aurélie Hua-Van, Emily C. Jennings, Denis M. Larkin, Daniel Lawson, Michael J. Lehane, Vasileios P. Lenis, Ernesto Lowy-Gallego, Rosaline W. Macharia, Anna R. Malacrida, Heather G. Marco, Daniel Masiga, Gareth L. Maslen, Irina Matetovici, Richard P. Meisel, Irene Meki, Veronika Michalkova
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Background: Tsetse flies (Glossina sp.) are the vectors of human and animal trypanosomiasis throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Tsetse flies are distinguished from other Diptera by unique adaptations, including lactation and the birthing of live young (obligate viviparity), a vertebrate blood-specific diet by both sexes, and obligate bacterial symbiosis. This work describes the comparative analysis of six Glossina genomes representing three sub-genera: Morsitans (G. morsitans morsitans, G. pallidipes, G. austeni), Palpalis (G. palpalis, G. fuscipes), and Fusca (G. brevipalpis) which represent different habitats, host preferences, and vectorial capacity. Results: Genomic analyses validate established evolutionary relationships and sub-genera. Syntenic analysis of Glossina relative …
Host Species And Site Of Collection Shape The Microbiota Of Rift Valley Fever Vectors In Kenya, David P. Tchouassi, Ephantus J. Muturi, Samwel O. Arum, Chang Hyun Kim, Christopher J. Fields, Baldwyn Torto
Host Species And Site Of Collection Shape The Microbiota Of Rift Valley Fever Vectors In Kenya, David P. Tchouassi, Ephantus J. Muturi, Samwel O. Arum, Chang Hyun Kim, Christopher J. Fields, Baldwyn Torto
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The composition and structure of microbial communities associated with mosquitoes remain poorly understood despite their important role in host biology and potential to be harnessed as novel strategies for mosquito-borne disease control. We employed MiSeq sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene amplicons to characterize the bacterial flora of field-collected populations of Aedes mcintoshi and Aedes ochraceus, the primary vectors of Rift Valley fever (RVF) virus in Kenya. Proteobacteria (53.5%), Firmicutes (22.0%) and Actinobacteria (10.0%) were the most abundant bacterial phyla accounting for 85.5% of the total sequences. Non-metric multi-dimensional scaling plots based on Bray-Curtis dissimilarities revealed a clear grouping of …
Theileriosis In Mountain Bongo Repatriated To Kenya: A Clinical And Molecular Investigation, Richard P. Bishop, David O. Odongo, Thomas T. Dolan, Rosemary B. Dolan, Robert A. Skilton, Paul D. Sayer
Theileriosis In Mountain Bongo Repatriated To Kenya: A Clinical And Molecular Investigation, Richard P. Bishop, David O. Odongo, Thomas T. Dolan, Rosemary B. Dolan, Robert A. Skilton, Paul D. Sayer
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Mountain bongo (Tragelaphus euryceros isaaci) from Kenya were exported to zoological institutions in North America and Europe in the 1970s and 1980s. In the following 20-30 years bongo numbers declined in Kenya and the Mountain Bongo Repatriation Project was launched. This resulted in 18 adult bongo, descendants of the original translocated bongo, being repatriated from the United States to Kenya in 2004. These newly arrived bongo were inadvertently exposed to heavy tick infestation on release in a conservancy on the slopes of Mount Kenya. Mortality and morbidity occurred during the third week after arrival. Theileria sp. infection was apparent from …
Modelling Appropriate Use Of Trypanocides To Restrict Wide-Spread Multi-Drug Resistance During Chemotherapy Of Animal African Trypanosomiasis, Ibrahim I. Wangwe, Sarah A. Wamwenje, Caroline Mirieri, Nicodemus M. Masila, Lillian Wambua, Benard W. Kulohoma
Modelling Appropriate Use Of Trypanocides To Restrict Wide-Spread Multi-Drug Resistance During Chemotherapy Of Animal African Trypanosomiasis, Ibrahim I. Wangwe, Sarah A. Wamwenje, Caroline Mirieri, Nicodemus M. Masila, Lillian Wambua, Benard W. Kulohoma
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Trypanocide resistance remains a huge challenge in the management of animal African trypanosomiasis. Paucity of data on the prevalence of multi-drug resistant trypanosomes has greatly hindered optimal veterinary management practices. We use mathematical model predictions to highlight appropriate drug regimens that impede trypanocide resistance development in cattle. We demonstrate that using drugs in decreasing resistance order results in a negligible increase in number of cattle with resistant infection, in contrast to a more pronounced increase from trypanocide use in increasing resistance order. We demonstrate that the lowest levels of trypanocide resistance are achieved with combination therapy. We also show that …
Community-Led Data Collection Using Open Data Kit For Surveillance Of Animal African Trypanosomiasis In Shimba Hills, Kenya, Sarah A.O. Wamwenje, Ibrahim I. Wangwe, Nicodemus Masila, Caroline K. Mirieri, Lillian Wambua, Benard W. Kulohoma
Community-Led Data Collection Using Open Data Kit For Surveillance Of Animal African Trypanosomiasis In Shimba Hills, Kenya, Sarah A.O. Wamwenje, Ibrahim I. Wangwe, Nicodemus Masila, Caroline K. Mirieri, Lillian Wambua, Benard W. Kulohoma
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Objective: In Sub-Saharan Africa, there is an increase in trypanosome non-susceptibility to multiple trypanocides, but limited information on judicious trypanocide use is accessible to smallholder farmers and agricultural stakeholders in disease endemic regions, resulting in widespread multi-drug resistance. Huge economic expenses and the laborious nature of extensive field studies have hindered collection of the requisite large-scale prospective datasets required to inform disease management. We examined the efficacy of community-led data collection strategies using smartphones by smallholder farmers to acquire robust datasets from the trypanosomiasis endemic Shimba hills region in Kenya. We used Open Data Kit, an open-source smartphone application development …
Sodalis Glossinidius Presence In Wild Tsetse Is Only Associated With Presence Of Trypanosomes In Complex Interactions With Other Tsetse-Specific Factors 06 Biological Sciences 0604 Genetics, Manun Channumsin, Marc Ciosi, Dan Masiga, C. Michael R. Turner, Barbara K. Mable
Sodalis Glossinidius Presence In Wild Tsetse Is Only Associated With Presence Of Trypanosomes In Complex Interactions With Other Tsetse-Specific Factors 06 Biological Sciences 0604 Genetics, Manun Channumsin, Marc Ciosi, Dan Masiga, C. Michael R. Turner, Barbara K. Mable
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Background: Susceptibility of tsetse flies (Glossina spp.) to trypanosomes of both humans and animals has been associated with the presence of the endosymbiont Sodalis glossinidius. However, intrinsic biological characteristics of the flies and environmental factors can influence the presence of both S. glossinidius and the parasites. It thus remains unclear whether it is the S. glossinidius or other attributes of the flies that explains the apparent association. The objective of this study was to test whether the presence of Trypanosoma vivax, T. congolense and T. brucei are related to the presence of S. glossinidius in tsetse flies when other factors …
Enhancing Vector Refractoriness To Trypanosome Infection: Achievements, Challenges And Perspectives, Henry M. Kariithi, Irene K. Meki, Daniela I. Schneider, Linda De Vooght, Fathiya M. Khamis, Anne Geiger, Guler Demirbaş-Uzel, Just M. Vlak, Ikbal Agah Ince, Sorge Kelm, Flobert Njiokou, Florence N. Wamwiri, Imna I. Malele, Brian L. Weiss, Adly M.M. Abd-Alla
Enhancing Vector Refractoriness To Trypanosome Infection: Achievements, Challenges And Perspectives, Henry M. Kariithi, Irene K. Meki, Daniela I. Schneider, Linda De Vooght, Fathiya M. Khamis, Anne Geiger, Guler Demirbaş-Uzel, Just M. Vlak, Ikbal Agah Ince, Sorge Kelm, Flobert Njiokou, Florence N. Wamwiri, Imna I. Malele, Brian L. Weiss, Adly M.M. Abd-Alla
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With the absence of effective prophylactic vaccines and drugs against African trypanosomosis, control of this group of zoonotic neglected tropical diseases depends the control of the tsetse fly vector. When applied in an area-wide insect pest management approach, the sterile insect technique (SIT) is effective in eliminating single tsetse species from isolated populations. The need to enhance the effectiveness of SIT led to the concept of investigating tsetse-trypanosome interactions by a consortium of researchers in a five-year (2013-2018) Coordinated Research Project (CRP) organized by the Joint Division of FAO/IAEA. The goal of this CRP was to elucidate tsetse-symbiome-pathogen molecular interactions …
Genetic Diversity And Population Structure Of Theileria Parva In South Sudan, Diaeldin A. Salih, Joram M. Mwacharo, Roger Pelle, Moses N. Njahira, David O. Odongo, Mary N. Mbole-Kariuki, Wani L. Marcellino, Agol K. Malak, Henary Kiara, Abdel Rahim M. El Hussein, Richard P. Bishop, Robert A. Skilton
Genetic Diversity And Population Structure Of Theileria Parva In South Sudan, Diaeldin A. Salih, Joram M. Mwacharo, Roger Pelle, Moses N. Njahira, David O. Odongo, Mary N. Mbole-Kariuki, Wani L. Marcellino, Agol K. Malak, Henary Kiara, Abdel Rahim M. El Hussein, Richard P. Bishop, Robert A. Skilton
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Theileria parva is a parasitic protozoan that causes East Coast fever (ECF), an economically important disease of cattle in eastern, central and southern Africa. In South Sudan, ECF is considered a major constraint for livestock development in regions where the disease is endemic. To obtain insights into the dynamics of T. parva in South Sudan, population genetic analysis was performed. Out of the 751 samples included in this study, 178 blood samples were positive for T. parva by species-specific PCR, were collected from cattle from four regions in South Sudan (Bor = 62; Juba = 45; Kajo keji = 41 …
Datasets For Mapping Pastoralist Movement Patterns And Risk Zones Of Rift Valley Fever Occurrence, Gladys Mosomtai, Magnus Evander, Charles Mundia, Per Sandström, Clas Ahlm, Osama Ahmed Hassan, Olivia Wesula Lwande, Moses K. Gachari, Tobias Landmann, Rosemary Sang
Datasets For Mapping Pastoralist Movement Patterns And Risk Zones Of Rift Valley Fever Occurrence, Gladys Mosomtai, Magnus Evander, Charles Mundia, Per Sandström, Clas Ahlm, Osama Ahmed Hassan, Olivia Wesula Lwande, Moses K. Gachari, Tobias Landmann, Rosemary Sang
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Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a zoonotic disease affecting humans and animals. It is caused by RVF virus transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes. The data presented in this article propose environmental layers suitable for mapping RVF vector habitat zones and livestock migratory routes. Using species distribution modelling, we used RVF vector occurrence data sampled along livestock migratory routes to identify suitable vector habitats within the study region which is located in the central and the north-eastern part of Kenya. Eleven herds monitored with GPS collars were used to estimate cattle utilization distribution patterns. We used kernel density estimator to produce …
Haematology Of N’Dama And West African Shorthorn Cattle Herds Under Natural Trypanosoma Vivax Challenge In Ghana, Ebenezer Yaw Ganyo, Johnson N. Boampong, Daniel K. Masiga, Jandouwe Villinger, Paa Kobina Turkson
Haematology Of N’Dama And West African Shorthorn Cattle Herds Under Natural Trypanosoma Vivax Challenge In Ghana, Ebenezer Yaw Ganyo, Johnson N. Boampong, Daniel K. Masiga, Jandouwe Villinger, Paa Kobina Turkson
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Background: Animal trypanosomosis is a major cause of economic loss in livestock production in Africa. A suggested control measure is to use breeds with traits of trypanotolerance. The study examines the effect of natural Trypanosoma vivax challenge on haematological parameters in two trypanotolerant cattle [N’Dama and West African Shorthorn (WASH)] herds. Methods: Trypanosoma vivax-specific primers were used to diagnose T. vivax infection in an N’Dama herd at Cape Coast in southern Ghana and a WASH herd at Chegbani in northern Ghana from May to July 2011 in a cross-sectional study. Levels of haematological parameters comprising packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin …
Genotypic Responses Of Brachiaria Grass (Brachiaria Spp.) Accessions To Drought Stress, Duncan Cheruiyot, Charles Aura Odhiambo Midega, Johnnie Van Den Berg, John Anthony Pickett, Zeyaur Rahman Khan
Genotypic Responses Of Brachiaria Grass (Brachiaria Spp.) Accessions To Drought Stress, Duncan Cheruiyot, Charles Aura Odhiambo Midega, Johnnie Van Den Berg, John Anthony Pickett, Zeyaur Rahman Khan
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Background and Objective: Brachiaria, a warm season C4 grass, is rapidly gaining popularity as fodder crop in Africa where it is also used as a component of a habitat management strategy for maize stem borers. However, increasing drought limits productivity of this grass species. The aim of this study was to evaluate and select high yielding brachiaria genotypes under simulated drought conditions. Materials and Methods: The morphological and physiological performance of 18 apomictic accessions of brachiaria in simulated drought conditions in a screen house were evaluated. Plants were exposed to different watering regimes. Well-watered (control) plants were watered every 48 …
Development Of Field-Applicable Tests For Rapid And Sensitive Detection Of Candidatus Phytoplasma Oryzae, Lillian Wambua, Bernd Schneider, Allan Okwaro, Joseph Odhiambo Wanga, Olive Imali, Peninah Nduku Wambua, Lavender Agutu, Cassandra Olds, Chris Stephen Jones, Daniel Masiga, Charles Midega, Zeyaur Khan, Joerg Jores, Anne Fischer
Development Of Field-Applicable Tests For Rapid And Sensitive Detection Of Candidatus Phytoplasma Oryzae, Lillian Wambua, Bernd Schneider, Allan Okwaro, Joseph Odhiambo Wanga, Olive Imali, Peninah Nduku Wambua, Lavender Agutu, Cassandra Olds, Chris Stephen Jones, Daniel Masiga, Charles Midega, Zeyaur Khan, Joerg Jores, Anne Fischer
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Napier grass Stunt Disease (NSD) is a severe disease of Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) in Eastern Africa, caused by the leafhopper-transmitted bacterium Candidatus Phytoplasma oryzae. The pathogen severely impairs the growth of Napier grass, the major fodder for dairy cattle in Eastern Africa. NSD is associated with biomass losses of up to 70% of infected plants. Diagnosis of NSD is done by nested PCR targeting the phytoplasma DNA, which is difficult to perform in developing countries with little infrastructure. We report the development of an easy to use, rapid, sensitive and specific molecular assay for field diagnosis of NSD. The …
Molecular Detection Of Tick-Borne Pathogen Diversities In Ticks From Livestock And Reptiles Along The Shores And Adjacent Islands Of Lake Victoria And Lake Baringo, Kenya, David Omondi, Daniel K. Masiga, Burtram C. Fielding, Edward Kariuki, Yvonne Ukamaka Ajamma, Micky M. Mwamuye, Daniel O. Ouso, Jandouwe Villinger
Molecular Detection Of Tick-Borne Pathogen Diversities In Ticks From Livestock And Reptiles Along The Shores And Adjacent Islands Of Lake Victoria And Lake Baringo, Kenya, David Omondi, Daniel K. Masiga, Burtram C. Fielding, Edward Kariuki, Yvonne Ukamaka Ajamma, Micky M. Mwamuye, Daniel O. Ouso, Jandouwe Villinger
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Although diverse tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) are endemic to East Africa, with recognized impact on human and livestock health, their diversity and specific interactions with tick and vertebrate host species remain poorly understood in the region. In particular, the role of reptiles in TBP epidemiology remains unknown, despite having been implicated with TBPs of livestock among exported tortoises and lizards. Understanding TBP ecologies, and the potential role of common reptiles, is critical for the development of targeted transmission control strategies for these neglected tropical disease agents. During the wet months (April-May; October-December) of 2012-2013, we surveyed TBP diversity among 4,126 ticks …
Ethnic Groups’ Knowledge, Attitude And Practices And Rift Valley Fever Exposure In Isiolo County Of Kenya, Hippolyte Affognon, Peter Mburu, Osama Ahmed Hassan, Sarah Kingori, Clas Ahlm, Rosemary Sang, Magnus Evander
Ethnic Groups’ Knowledge, Attitude And Practices And Rift Valley Fever Exposure In Isiolo County Of Kenya, Hippolyte Affognon, Peter Mburu, Osama Ahmed Hassan, Sarah Kingori, Clas Ahlm, Rosemary Sang, Magnus Evander
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Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an emerging mosquito-borne viral hemorrhagic fever in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, affecting humans and livestock. For spread of infectious diseases, including RVF, knowledge, attitude and practices play an important role, and the understanding of the influence of behavior is crucial to improve prevention and control efforts. The objective of the study was to assess RVF exposure, in a multiethnic region in Kenya known to experience RVF outbreaks, from the behavior perspective. We investigated how communities in Isiolo County, Kenya were affected, in relation to their knowledge, attitude and practices, by the RVF outbreak of …
The Role Of Hyalomma Truncatum On The Dynamics Of Rift Valley Fever: Insights From A Mathematical Epidemic Model, Sansao A. Pedro, Shirley Abelman, Henri E.Z. Tonnang
The Role Of Hyalomma Truncatum On The Dynamics Of Rift Valley Fever: Insights From A Mathematical Epidemic Model, Sansao A. Pedro, Shirley Abelman, Henri E.Z. Tonnang
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To date, our knowledge of Rift Valley fever (RVF) disease spread and maintenance is still limited, as flooding, humid weather and presence of biting insects such as mosquitoes, have not completely explained RVF outbreaks. We propose a model that includes livestock, mosquitoes and ticks compartments structured according to their questing and feeding behaviour in order to study the possible role of ticks on the dynamics of RVF. To quantify disease transmission at the initial stage of the epidemic, we derive an explicit formula of the basic reproductive number, R0. Using the concept of Metzler matrix, we state necessary conditions for …
Distribution And Abundance Of Key Vectors Of Rift Valley Fever And Other Arboviruses In Two Ecologically Distinct Counties In Kenya, Rosemary Sang, Samwel Arum, Edith Chepkorir, Gladys Mosomtai, Caroline Tigoi, Faith Sigei, Olivia Wesula Lwande, Tobias Landmann, Hippolyte Affognon, Clas Ahlm, Magnus Evander
Distribution And Abundance Of Key Vectors Of Rift Valley Fever And Other Arboviruses In Two Ecologically Distinct Counties In Kenya, Rosemary Sang, Samwel Arum, Edith Chepkorir, Gladys Mosomtai, Caroline Tigoi, Faith Sigei, Olivia Wesula Lwande, Tobias Landmann, Hippolyte Affognon, Clas Ahlm, Magnus Evander
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Background: Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral zoonosis of ruminants and humans that causes outbreaks in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula with significant public health and economic consequences. Humans become infected through mosquito bites and contact with infected livestock. The virus is maintained between outbreaks through vertically infected eggs of the primary vectors of Aedes species which emerge following rains with extensive flooding. Infected female mosquitoes initiate transmission among nearby animals, which amplifies virus, thereby infecting more mosquitoes and moving the virus beyond the initial point of emergence. With each successive outbreak, RVF has been found to expand …
The One Health Approach To Identify Knowledge, Attitudes And Practices That Affect Community Involvement In The Control Of Rift Valley Fever Outbreaks, Osama Ahmed Hassan, Hippolyte Affognon, Joacim Rocklöv, Peter Mburu, Rosemary Sang, Clas Ahlm, Magnus Evander
The One Health Approach To Identify Knowledge, Attitudes And Practices That Affect Community Involvement In The Control Of Rift Valley Fever Outbreaks, Osama Ahmed Hassan, Hippolyte Affognon, Joacim Rocklöv, Peter Mburu, Rosemary Sang, Clas Ahlm, Magnus Evander
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Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a viral mosquito-borne disease with the potential for global expansion, causes hemorrhagic fever, and has a high case fatality rate in young animals and in humans. Using a cross-sectional community-based study design, we investigated the knowledge, attitudes and practices of people living in small village in Sudan with respect to RVF outbreaks. A special One Health questionnaire was developed to compile data from 235 heads of household concerning their knowledge, attitudes, and practices with regard to controlling RVF. Although the 2007 RVF outbreak in Sudan had negatively affected the participants’ food availability and livestock income, …