Browsing by Author "Kazwala, R. R."

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Antimicrobial resistance and genotypic diversity of Campylobacter isolated from pigs, dairy, and beef cattle in Tanzania
(Frontiers in Microbiology, 2015-11-12) Kashoma, I. P.; Kassem, I. I.; Kumar, A.; Kessy, B. M.; Gebreyes, W.; Kazwala, R. R.; Rajashekara, G.
Foodborne Campylobacter infections pose a serious threat to public health worldwide. However, the occurrence and characteristics of Campylobacter in food animals and products remain largely unknown in Tanzania. The objective of this study was to determine the revalence, antibiotic resistance, and genetic profiles (sequence types, STs) of Campylobacter isolated from feces of pigs and dairy and beef cattle in Tanzania. Overall, 259 (∼30%) of 864 samples were positive for Campylobacter spp, which were detected in 32.5, 35.4, and 19.6% of the pig, dairy, and beef cattle samples, respectively. Multiplex PCR analysis identified 4.5 and 29.3% of the Campylobacter isolates as C. coli and C. jejuni, respectively. The majority (91.9%) of the isolates from pig samples were identified as C. coli, while C. jejuni accounted for 65.5% of the isolates from cattle. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the disk diffusion assay and the broth microdilution method revealed resistance to: ampicillin (Amp) (70.3% and 75.7%, respectively), gentamicin (Gen) (1.8% and 12.6%), streptomycin (Str) (65.8 and 74.8%), erythromycin (Ery) (41.4 and 48.7%), tetracycline (Tet) (18.9 and 23.4%), and ciprofloxacin (Cip) (14.4 and 7.2%). Resistance to nalidixic acid (Nal) (39.6%), azithromycin (Azm) (13.5%), and chloramphenicol (Chl) (4.5%) was determined using the disk diffusion assay only, while resistance to tylosin (Tyl) (38.7%) was quantified using the broth microdilution method. Multilocus sequence typing of 111 Campylobacter isolates resulted in the identification of 48 STs (26 C. jejuni and 22 C. coli) of which seven were novel (six C. jejuni and one C. coli). Taken together, this study revealed the high prevalence, genetic diversity and antimicrobial resistance of Campylobacter in important food animals in Tanzania, which highlights the urgent need for the surveillance and control of Campylobacter in this country.
Association of long-term pesticide exposure and biologic parameters in female farm workers in Tanzania: A cross sectional study
(Toxics, 2016-09-29) Manyilizu, W. B.; Mdegela, R. H.; Kazwala, R. R.; Nonga, H. E.; Müller, M. B.; Lie, E.; Skjerve, E.; Lyche, J. L.
The study aimed to assess the association of long-term pesticide exposure (5 years) with hematological, serum biochemical parameters and acetylcholinesterase activity in farm workers. These pesticides included organophosphorus pesticides, carbamates, pyrethroids, dithiocarbamates, and other pesticides such as endosulfan. Applying a cross-sectional study design, 69 females from a pesticide-exposed farm population and 30 females from a district not using pesticides (reference group) were studied. The mean red cell corpuscular volume and hematocrit values were significantly lower (74.7 9.1 fl; 95% CI 72.5–76.9 and 32.0% 4.6%; 95% CI 30.9–33.1, respectively) in the exposed compared to the reference group, whereas mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and platelets were significantly higher (37.4 3.8 g/dL; 95% CI 36.5–38.3 and 374.1 95.3/L; 95% CI 351.2–396.9, respectively) in the exposed compared to the reference group. Mean serum glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase (20.7 8.9 U/L; 95% CI 18.5–22.9) and creatinine (83.9 6.6 mol/L; 95% CI 82.3–85.5) were significantly higher in the exposed compared to the reference group. A higher mean esterase activity (AChE 0.6 0.2 mM/min/mg protein; 95% CI 0.56–0.7; BChE 0.9 0.4 mM/min/mg protein; 95% CI 0.9–1.1) was noted in the exposed group. Regression models suggest that occupational exposure (p < 0.001) could be a predictor of esterase (AChE and BChE) activity and biochemical changes (= 0.4, 95% CI: 0.3–0.5; = 0.7, 95% CI: 0.6–0.9, respectively). Long-term pesticide exposure affects the hemato-biochemical and esterase responses, establishing the need for further studies.
Boma to banda - A disease sentinel concept for reduction of diarrhoea
(Pastoralism: Research, Policy and Practice., 2016) Wolking, D. J.; Clifford, D. L.; Kelly, T. R.; Kamani, E.; Smith, W. A.; Kazwala, R. R.; Mazet, J. A.K.
Diarrhoeal diseases can be debilitating, especially for children and young animals. In many rural areas, particularly pastoral communities, livelihoods are characterized by close interaction between household members and their livestock herds, and children often care for young animals, creating opportunities for the transmission of multiple zoonotic pathogens. Using a One Health approach, we first evaluated whether diarrhoeal diseases were a problem for pastoral households in Tanzania and then investigated their calf herds to identify the prevalence and risk factors for diarrhoeal disease and the shedding of the zoonotic pathogens Cryptosporidium and Giardia. Sixty percent of households reporting cases of human diarrhoea also had diarrhoea detected later in their calf herds, and calf herds shedding Cryptosporidium oocysts were six times more likely to be diarrhoeic. Because Cryptosporidium shares a similar transmission mode with a wide range of diarrhoeagenic organisms and calf diarrhoea outbreaks can involve multiple pathogens with mixed infections, it is possible that calf diarrhoea may be indicative of shared risk of zoonotic pathogens from environmental contamination. To mitigate the risk of transmission of faecal-borne zoonotic pathogens from herds to households (boma-livestock pens to banda –household building), we describe a conceptual disease early-warning method proposing diarrhoeic calves as animal sentinels. Such a calf warning system, combined with appropriate interventions designed to minimize exposure, could serve as a practical solution for reducing risks of diarrhoeal diseases among animals and people.
A cross-sectional study of factors associated with dog ownership in Tanzania
(2008-01-29) Knobel, D. L.; Laurenson, M. K.; Kazwala, R. R.; Boden, L. A.; Cleaveland, C.; Mfinanga, S. G. M.
Background: Mass vaccination of owned domestic dogs is crucial for the control of rabies in sub- Saharan Africa. Knowledge of the proportion of households which own dogs, and of the factors associated with dog ownership, is important for the planning and implementation of rabies awareness and dog vaccination programmes, and for the promotion of responsible dog ownership. This paper reports the results of a cross-sectional study of dog ownership by households in urban and rural communities in the United Republic of Tanzania. Results: Fourteen percent (202) of 1,471 households surveyed were identified as dog-owning, with an average of 2.4 dogs per dog-owning household. The percentage of dog-owning households was highest in inland rural areas (24%) and lowest in coastal urban communities (7%). The overall human:dog ratio was 14:1. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that households which owned cattle, sheep or goats were much more likely to own dogs than households with no livestock. Muslim households were less likely to own dogs than Christian households, although this effect of religion was not seen among livestock-owning households. Households were more likely to own a dog if the head of the household was male; if they owned a cat; or if they owned poultry. Dog ownership was also broadly associated with larger, wealthier households. Conclusion: The human:dog ratios in Tanzania are similar to those reported elsewhere in sub- Saharan Africa, although cultural and geographic variation is evident. Estimation of the number of owned dogs, and identification of household predictors of dog ownership, will enable targeted planning of rabies control efforts.
Epidemiology and RAPD-PCR typing of thermophilic campylobacters from children under five years and chickens in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
(BMC Infectious DiseasesBMC serie, 2016) Chuma, I. S.; Nonga, H. E.; Mdegela, R. H.; Kazwala, R. R.
Campylobacter species are gram negative and flagellated bacteria under the genus Campylobacter, family Campylobacteriaceae. These pathogens cause zoonotic infections among human and animal populations. This study was undertaken between December 2006 and May 2007 to determine prevalence, risk factors and genetic diversity of thermophilic Campylobacter isolates from children less than 5 years and chickens in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. Methods
Epidemiology and RAPD-PCR typing of thermophilic campylobacters from children under five years and chickens in Morogoro municipality, Tanzania
(BMC, 2016-06-15) Chuma, I. S.; Nonga, H. E.; Mdegela, R. H.; Kazwala, R. R.
Background: Campylobacter species are gram negative and flagellated bacteria under the genus Campylobacter, family Campylobacteriaceae. These pathogens cause zoonotic infections among human and animal populations. This study was undertaken between December 2006 and May 2007 to determine prevalence, risk factors and genetic diversity of thermophilic Campylobacter isolates from children less than 5 years and chickens in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. Methods: The Skirrow’s protocol was used for isolation and identification of Campylobacter from 268 human stool specimens and 419 chicken cloacal swabs. Patient biodata and risk factors associated with human infection were also collected. Genetic diversity of Campylobacter isolates was determined by a RAPD-PCR technique using OPA 11 primer (5′-CAA TCG CCG T-3′). Phylogenetic analysis and band pattern comparison were done by Bionumerics software and visual inspection. Results: Stool samples from 268 children and 419 cloacal swabs from chickens were analyzed. Prevalence of thermophilic Campylobacters in children was 19% with higher isolation frequency (p = 0.046) in males (23.5%) than females (13.8%). Campylobacter jejuni (78.4%) was more isolated (p = 0.000) than C. coli (19.6%) and 2% were unidentified isolates. In chickens, the prevalence was 42.5% with higher isolation rate (p = 0.000) of C. jejuni (87%) than C. coli (13%). Campylobacters were more frequently recovered (p = 0.000) from indigenous/ local chickens (75.0%) followed by cockerels (52.2%), broilers (50.0%) and lowest in layers (22.7%). Keeping chickens without other domestic animals concurrently (p = 0.000), chicken types (p = 0.000) and flock size (p = 0.007) were risk factors for infection in chickens. One hundred and fifty two (152) thermophillic Campylobacter isolates were genotyped by RAPD-PCR of which 114 were C. jejuni (74 from chickens and 40 humans) and 38 C. coli (28 from chickens and 10 humans). Comparison of Campylobacter isolates from children and chickens revealed high diversity with only 6.1% of C. jejuni and 5.3% of C. coli being 100% genetically similar. Conclusions: This study has recorded high prevalence of thermophilic Campylobacter in children less than 5 years and chickens in Morogoro municipality. The observed genetic similarity among few C. jejuni and C. coli isolates from children and chicken suggests existence of cross transmission of these pathogens between children under 5 years and chickens.
European 1: a globally important clonal complex of Mycobacterium bovis
(ELSEVIER, 2011) Smith, N. H.; Berg, S.; Dale, J.; Allen, A.; Rodriguez, S.; Romero, B.; Kazwala, R. R.
We have identified a globally important clonal complex of M. bovis by deletion analysis of over one thousand strains from over 30 countries. We initially show that over 99% of the strains of Mycobacterium bovis, the cause of bovine tuberculosis, isolated from cattle in the Republic of Ireland and the UK are closely related and are members of a single clonal complex marked by the deletion of chromosomal region RDEu,1 and we named this clonal complex European 1 (Eu1). Eu1 strains were present at less than 14% of French, Portuguese and Spanish isolates of M. bovis but are rare in other mainland European countries and Iran. However, strains of the Eu1 clonal complex were found at high frequency in former trading partners of the UK (USA, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Canada). The Americas, with the exception of Brazil, are dominated by the Eu1 clonal complex which was at high frequency in Argentina, Chile, Ecuador and Mexico as well as North America. Eu1 was rare or absent in the African countries surveyed except South Africa. A small sample of strains from Taiwan were non-Eu1 but, surprisingly, isolates from Korea and Kazakhstan were members of the Eu1 clonal complex. The simplest explanation for much of the current distribution of the Eu1 clonal complex is that it was spread in infected cattle, such as Herefords, from the UK to former trading partners, although there is evidence of secondary dispersion since. This the first identification of a globally dispersed clonal complex M. bovis and indicates that much of the current global distribution of this important veterinary pathogen has resulted from relatively recent International trade in cattle.
The feasibility of canine rabies elimination in Africa: Dispelling doubts with data
(2010-02-23) Lembo, T.; Hampson, K.; Kaare, M. T.; Ernest, E.; Knobel, D.; Kazwala, R. R.; Haydon, D. T.; Cleaveland, S.
Background: Canine rabies causes many thousands of human deaths every year in Africa, and continues to increase throughout much of the continent. Methodology/Principal Findings: This paper identifies four common reasons given for the lack of effective canine rabies control in Africa: (a) a low priority given for disease control as a result of lack of awareness of the rabies burden; (b) epidemiological constraints such as uncertainties about the required levels of vaccination coverage and the possibility of sustained cycles of infection in wildlife; (c) operational constraints including accessibility of dogs for vaccination and insufficient knowledge of dog population sizes for planning of vaccination campaigns; and (d) limited resources for implementation of rabies surveillance and control. We address each of these issues in turn, presenting data from field studies and modelling approaches used in Tanzania, including burden of disease evaluations, detailed epidemiological studies, operational data from vaccination campaigns in different demographic and ecological settings, and economic analyses of the cost-effectiveness of dog vaccination for human rabies prevention. Conclusions/Significance: We conclude that there are no insurmountable problems to canine rabies control in most of Africa; that elimination of canine rabies is epidemiologically and practically feasible through mass vaccination of domestic dogs; and that domestic dog vaccination provides a cost-effective approach to the prevention and elimination of human rabies deaths.
A field vaccine trial in Tanzania demonstrates partial protection against malignant catarrhal fever in cattle
(ELSEVIER, 2015) Lankester, F.; Russell, G. C.; Lugelo, A.; Ndabigaye, A.; Mnyambwa, N.; Keyyu, J.; Kazwala, R. R.; Grant, D; Percival, A.; Deane, D.; Haig, D. M.; Cleaveland, S.
Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) is a fatal lymphoproliferative disease of cattle that, in East Africa, results from transmission of the causative virus, alcelaphine herpesvirus 1 (AlHV-1), from wildebeest. A vaccine field trial involving an attenuated AlHV-1 virus vaccine was performed over two wildebeest calving seasons on the Simanjiro Plain of northern Tanzania. Each of the two phases of the field trial consisted of groups of 50 vaccinated and unvaccinated cattle, which were subsequently exposed to AlHV-1 challenge by herding toward wildebeest. Vaccination resulted in the induction of virus-specific and virus-neutralizing antibodies. Some cattle in the unvaccinated groups also developed virus-specific antibody responses but only after the start of the challenge phase of the trial. PCR of DNA from blood samples detected AlHV-1 infection in both groups of cattle but the frequency of infection was significantly lower in the vaccinated groups. Some infected animals showed clinical signs suggestive of MCF but few animals went on to develop fatal MCF, with similar numbers in vaccinated and unvaccinated groups. This study demonstrated a baseline level of MCF-seropositivity among cattle in northern Tanzania of 1% and showed that AlHV-1 virus-neutralizing antibodies could be induced in Tanzanian zebu shorthorn cross cattle by our attenuated vaccine, a correlate of protection in previous experimental trials. The vaccine reduced infection rates by 56% in cattle exposed to wildebeest but protection from fatal MCF could not be determined due to the low number of fatal cases.
Genetic profile of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and treatment outcomes in human pulmonary tuberculosis in Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2014-04-02) Mfinanga, S. G. M.; Warren, R. M.; Kazwala, R. R.; Kahwa, A.; Kazimoto, T.; Kimaro, G.; Mfaume, S.; Chonde, T.; Ngadaya, E.; Egwaga, S.; Streicher, E. M.; Van Pittius, G. N. C.; Morkve, O.; Cleaveland, S.
Information on the different spoligotype families of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Tanzania is limited, and where available, restricted to small geographical areas. This article describes the genetic profile of M. tuberculosis across Tanzania and suggests how spoligotype families might affect drug resistance and treatment outcomes for smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Tanzania. We conducted the study from 2006 to 2008, and the isolates were obtained from samples collected under the routine drug resistance surveillance system. The isolates were from specimens collected from 2001 to 2007, and stored at the Central and Reference Tuberculosis Laboratory. A total of 487 isolates from 23 regions in the country were spoligotyped. We were able to retrieve clinical information for 446 isolates only. Out of the 487 isolates spoligotyped, 195(40.0%) belonged to the Central Asian (CAS) family, 84 (17.5%) to the Latin American Mediterranean (LAM) family, 49 (10.1%) to the East-African Indian (EAI) family, and 33 (6.8%) to the Beijing family. Other isolates included 1 (0.2%) for H37Rv, 10 (2.1%) for Haarlem, 4 (0.8%) for S family, 58 (11.9%) for T family and 52 (10.7%) for unclassified. No spoligotype patterns were consistent with M. bovis. Regarding treatment outcomes, the cure rate was 80% with no significant variation among the spoligotype families. The overall level of MDR TB was 2.5% (3/121), with no significant difference among the spoligotype families. All Beijing strains (11.8%, 30/254) originated from the Eastern and Southern zones of the country, of which 80% were from Dar es Salaam. Isolates from the CAS and T families were reported disproportionately from the Eastern-Southern zone, and EAI and LAM families from the Northern-Lake zones but the difference was not statistically significant. Five isolates were identified as non-tuberculous Mycobacteria. In conclusion, M. tuberculosis isolates from pulmonary tuberculosis cases in Tanzania were classified mostly within the CAS, LAM, and EAI and T families, while the Beijing family comprised about 7% isolates only. Consistently good treatment outcomes were recorded across these spoligotype families. The proportion of drug resistance strains was low. The findings also suggest variation of spoligotype families with varying geographical localities within the country, and identify this area for further research to confirm this finding.
A globally important clonal complex of Mycobacterium bovis
(Elsevier, 2011) Smith, N. H.; Berg, S.; Dale, J.; Allen, A.; Rodriguez, S.; Romero, B.; Kazwala, R. R.; Hilty, M.
We have identified a globally important clonal complex of M. bovis by deletion analysis of over one thousand strains from over 30 countries. We initially show that over 99% of the strains ofMycobacterium bovis, the cause of bovine tuberculosis, isolated from cattle in the Republic of Ireland and the UK are closely related and are members of a single clonal complex marked by the deletion of chromosomal region RDEu,1 and we named this clonal complex European 1 (Eu1). Eu1 strains were present at less than 14% of French, Portuguese and Spanish isolates ofM. bovis but are rare in other mainland European countries and Iran. However, strains of the Eu1 clonal complex were found at high frequency in former trading partners of the UK (USA, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Canada). The Americas, with the exception of Brazil, are dominated by the Eu1 clonal complex which was at high frequency in Argentina, Chile, Ecuador and Mexico as well as North America. Eu1 was rare or absent in the African countries surveyed except South Africa. A small sample of strains from Taiwan were non-Eu1 but, surprisingly, isolates from Korea and Kazakhstan were members of the Eu1 clonal complex. The simplest explanation for much of the current distribution of the Eu1 clonal complex is that it was spread in infected cattle, such as Herefords, from the UK to former trading partners, although there is evidence of secondary dispersion since. This the first identification of a globally dispersed clonal complex M. bovis and indicates that much of the current global distribution of this important veterinary pathogen has resulted from relatively recent International trade in cattle.
Hydatidosis of slaughtered animals in Ngorongoro district of Arusha region, Tanzania
(2008-12) Ernest, E.; Nonga, H. E.; Kassuku, A. A.; Kazwala, R. R.
A study on the prevalence of hydatidosis in cattle, goats and sheep was carried out in Ngorongoro district of Arusha region, Tanzania. A 4-years data records from four slaughter slabs were retrieved and analysed. In addition, meat inspection was done in the same slaughter slabs for nine months and 64 households were interviewed to assess the community awareness on hydatidosis. Results showed the overall prevalence of hydatidosis to be 47.9%. Species prevalence of 48.7%, 34.7% and 63.8% in cattle, goats and sheep respectively was recorded. Of 174 cysts examined in cattle, 37 (21.3%) were fertile, 126 (72.4%) were sterile and 11 (6.3%) were calcified. Out of 215 goats and 67 sheep cysts examined, 52 (24.7%) and 26 (38.8%) were fertile, 138 (64.2%) and 38 (56.7%) were sterile, 24 (11.2%) and 3 (4.5%) were calcified respectively. The higher percentage offertile hydatid cysts in sheep and goats coupled with the practice of backyard slaughter of sheep and goats suggests that, these animals could be important intermediate hosts for the maintenance of the domestic life cycle of E. granulosus in the locality. Questionnaire survey revealed that 17.2% of the respondents were aware of hydatidosis but non of them were knowledgeable on its transmission. Up to 84.4% of the respondents had domestic ruminants and donkeys, while 89.1% had dogs. Of the households with dogs, only 19.3% had their dogs dewormed at least once in life time. Most of the households (87.7%) had their dogs managed freely and 77.2% of the respondents reported school children to be the closest friends of dogs in the family. The prevalence of E. granulosus infection in wildlife and the possible relationship of the domestic cycle to the sylvatic cycle operating in the same area are unknown and need to be studied.
Isolation and potential for transmission of mycobacterium bovis at human–livestock–wildlife interface of the Serengeti Ecosystem, Northern Tanzania
(PubMed, 2015) Katale, B. Z.; Mbugi, E. V.; Siame, K. K.; Keyyu, J. D.; Kendall, S.; Kazwala, R. R.; Dockrell, H. M.; Fyumagwa, R. D.; Michel, A. L.; Rweyemamu, M; Streicher, E. M.; Warren, R. M.; Helden, P.; Matee, M. I.
Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (bTB), is a multihost pathogen of public health and veterinary importance. We characterized the M. bovis isolated at the human– livestock–wildlife interface of the Serengeti ecosystem to determine the epidemiology and risk of crossspecies transmission between interacting hosts species. DNA was extracted from mycobacterial cultures obtained from sputum samples of 472 tuberculosis (TB) suspected patients and tissue samples from 606 livestock and wild animal species. M. bovis isolates were characterized using spoligotyping and Mycobacterial Interspersed Repetitive Units-Variable Tandem Repeats (MIRU-VNTR) on 24 loci. Only 5 M. bovis were isolated from the cultured samples. Spoligotyping results revealed that three M. bovis isolates from two buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) and 1 African civet (Civettictis civetta) belonged to SB0133 spoligotype. The two novel strains (AR1 and AR2) assigned as spoligotype SB2290 and SB2289, respectively, were identified from indigenous cattle (Bos indicus). No M. bovis was detected from patients with clinical signs consistent with TB. Of the 606 animal tissue specimens and sputa of 472 TBsuspected patients 43 (7.09%) and 12 (2.9%), respectively, yielded non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), of which 20 isolates were M. intracellulare. No M. avium was identified. M. bovis isolates from wildlife had 45.2% and 96.8% spoligotype pattern agreement with AR1 and AR2 strains, respectively. This finding indicates that bTB infections in wild animals and cattle were epidemiologically related. Of the 24 MIRU-VNTR loci, QUB 11b showed the highest discrimination among the M. bovis strains. The novel strains obtained in this study have not been previously reported in the area, but no clear evidence for recent cross-species transmission of M. bovis was found between human, livestock and wild animals.
Isolation and Potential for Transmission of Mycobacterium bovis at Human–livestock–wildlife Interface of the Serengeti Ecosystem, Northern Tanzania
(DOI, 2017) Katale, B. Z.; Mbugi, E.; Siame, K. K.; Keyyu, J. D.; Kendall, S.; Kazwala, R. R.; Dockrell, H. M.; Fyumagwa, R. D.; Michel, A. L.; Rweyemamu, M.; Streicher, E. M.; Warren, R. M.; Helden, P.; Matee, M.
Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (bTB), is a multihost pathogen of public health and veterinary importance. We characterized the M. bovis isolated at the human– livestock–wildlife interface of the Serengeti ecosystem to determine the epidemiology and risk of crossspecies transmission between interacting hosts species. DNA was extracted from mycobacterial cultures obtained from sputum samples of 472 tuberculosis (TB) suspected patients and tissue samples from 606 livestock and wild animal species. M. bovis isolates were characterized using spoligotyping and Mycobacterial Interspersed Repetitive Units-Variable Tandem Repeats (MIRU-VNTR) on 24 loci. Only 5 M. bovis were isolated from the cultured samples. Spoligotyping results revealed that three M. bovis isolates from two buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) and 1 African civet (Civettictis civetta) belonged to SB0133 spoligotype. The two novel strains (AR1 and AR2) assigned as spoligotype SB2290 and SB2289, respectively, were identified from indigenous cattle (Bos indicus). No M. bovis was detected from patients with clinical signs consistent with TB. Of the 606 animal tissue specimens and sputa of 472 TBsuspected patients 43 (7.09%) and 12 (2.9%), respectively, yielded non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), of which 20 isolates were M. intracellulare. No M. avium was identified. M. bovis isolates from wildlife had 45.2% and 96.8% spoligotype pattern agreement with AR1 and AR2 strains, respectively. This finding indicates that bTB infections in wild animals and cattle were epidemiologically related. Of the 24 MIRU-VNTR loci, QUB 11b showed the highest discrimination among the M. bovis strains. The novel strains obtained in this study have not been previously reported in the area, but no clear evidence for recent cross-species transmission of M. bovis was found between human, livestock and wild animals.
Isolation of mycobacterium species from raw milk of pastoral cattle of the southern highlands of Tanzania
(Tropical Animal Health and Production, 1998) Kazwala, R. R.; Daborn, C. J.; Kusiluka, C. J.; Jiwa, S. F. H.; Sharp, J. M.; Kambarage, D. M.
A study to determine the secretion of Mycobacterium spp. in milk from indigenous cattle was carried out in pastoral cattle reared in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. The study was aimed at elucidating the dangers associated with milk-borne zoonoses in a society where milk is normally consumed raw. Out of 805 milk samples, 31 (3.9%) were positive for mycobacteria. There was a preponderance of atypical mycobacteria (87%) whereas only two isolates (6.5%) were con¢rmed as M. bovis. Atypical mycobacteria included: M. terrae (n=7), M. fortuitum (n=2), M. £avescens (n = 13), M. gordonae (n=1) and M. smegmatis (n = 4). Although the number of M. bovis positive samples was low, the habit of pooling milk may still pose great public health dangers to milk consumers in this part of the world. Moreover, isolation of atypical mycobacteria should also be considered to be a danger to human health in countries such as Tanzania, where the number of people with lowered immunity due to HIV infection is on the increase.
Mycobacterial adenitis: role of mycobacterium bovis, non-tuberculous mycobacteria, hiv infection, and risk factors in arusha, Tanzania
(East African Medical Journal, 2004-04) Mfinanga, S .G .M.; Morkve, O.; Kazwala, R. R.; Cleaveland, S.; Sharp, M. J.; Kunda, J.; Nilsen, R.
Objective: To assess risk factors and mycobacterial agents in mycobacterial adenitis. Design: Cross sectional involving comparison analysis of high-risk groups. Setting: Seven hospitals in rural and semi-rural districts of Arusha. Subjects: The study comprised of 457 patients of clinically diagnosed mycobacterial adenitis. Interventions: Biopsy materials were cultured and identification of mycobacterial isolates, and HIV infection testing were performed using standard methods. A questionnaire was used to establish information for assessing risk factors. Main outcome measures: Proportions of mycobacterial isolates, risk factors and odds ratios. Results: Of the 457 specimens, 65(14.2%) were culture positive. Isolates identified were M. bovis, 7(10.8%) M. tuberculosis, 27(41.5%) and non-tuberculous mycobacteria 31(47.7%). HIV infection and ingestion of raw milk were linked with increased risk of M. bovis infection by OR of 13.6 (95% CI, 1.7 - 109.9) and 15.28 (3.26 - 71.7), respectively. On multivariate analysis, an OR of 16.2 (1.3 - 201.3) for having M. bovis adenitis was linked to HIV infection, raw milk and houses with poor ventilation. An OR of 5.2 (1.2 - 20.6) for non-tuberculous mycobacterial adenitis was linked to history of TB in the family, HIV infection, raw milk, raw animal products and poor knowledge on transmission of tuberculosis. Conclusions: M. bovis caused one out of ten cases of culture positive mycobacterial adenitis. Non-tuberculous mycobacteria were more common than M. tuberculosis (50% and 40% of the cases, respectively). HIV infection and raw animal products are among the risk factors identified for M. bovis and non-tuberculous mycobacterial adenitis.
One health contributions towards more effective and equitable approaches to health in low- and middle-income countries.
(RSTB.ROYALSOCIETY, 2016) Cleaveland, S; Sharp, J.; Abela-Ridder, B.; Allan, K. J.; Buza, J.; Crump, J. A.; Davis, A.; Del Rio Vilas, V. J.; Glanville, W. A.; Kazwala, R. R.; Kibona, T.
Emerging zoonoses with pandemic potential are a stated priority for the global health security agenda, but endemic zoonoses also have a major societal impact in low-resource settings. Although many endemic zoonoses can be treated, timely diagnosis and appropriate clinical management of human cases is often challenging. Preventive 'One Health' interventions, e.g. interventions in animal populations that generate human health benefits, may provide a useful approach to overcoming some of these challenges. Effective strategies, such as animal vaccination, already exist for the prevention, control and elimination of many endemic zoonoses, including rabies, and several livestock zoonoses (e.g. brucellosis, leptospirosis, Q fever) that are important causes of human febrile illness and livestock productivity losses in low- and middle-income countries. We make the case that, for these diseases, One Health interventions have the potential to be more effective and generate more equitable benefits for human health and livelihoods, particularly in rural areas, than approaches that rely exclusively on treatment of human cases. We hypothesize that applying One Health interventions to tackle these health challenges will help to build trust, community engagement and cross-sectoral collaboration, which will in turn strengthen the capacity of fragile health systems to respond to the threat of emerging zoonoses and other future health challenges. One Health interventions thus have the potential to align the ongoing needs of disadvantaged communities with the concerns of the broader global community, providing a pragmatic and equitable approach to meeting the global goals for sustainable development and supporting the global health security agenda.This article is part of the themed issue 'One Health for a changing world: zoonoses, ecosystems and human well-being'
A ‘‘One Health’’ approach to address emerging zoonoses: The HALI project in Tanzania
(PLoS Medicine, 2009-12) Mazet, J. A. K.; Clifford, D. L.; Coppolillo, B. P.; Deolalikar, A. B.; Erickson, J. D.; Kazwala, R. R.
Every day thousands of children and adults die from underdiagnosed diseases that have arisen at the human–animal– environment interface, especially diarrheal and respiratory diseases in developing countries [1,2]. Explosive human population growth and environmental changes have resulted in increased numbers of people living in close contact with wild and domestic animals. Unfortunately, this increased contact together with changes in land use, including livestock grazing and crop production, have altered the inherent ecological balance between pathogens and their human and animal hosts. In fact, zoonotic pathogens, such as influenza and SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome), account for the majority of emerging infectious diseases in people [3], and more than three-quarters of emerging zoonoses are the result of wildlife-origin pathogens [4]. While zoonoses represent a significant emerging threat to public health, many of these diseases, such as diarrheal diseases arising from poor water sanitation, are neglected by funding agencies [5].
Phenotypic and genotypic diversity of thermophilic Campylobacter spp. in commercial Turkey Flocks: A longitudinal study
(FOODBORNE PATHOGENS AND DISEASE, 2014-11-11) Kashoma, I. P.; Kumar, A.; Sanad, Y. M.; Gebreyes, W.; Kazwala, R. R.; Garabed, R.; Rajashekara, G.
Poultry are recognized as a main reservoir of Campylobacter spp. However, longitudinal studies investigating the persistence of Campylobacter on commercial meat turkeys are rare. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility, and persistence of genotypically related strains of Campylobacter spp. recovered from three commercial turkey farms in Ohio belonging to a single producer. Eight hundred ten samples were collected from birds aged 1 week to slaughter, consisting of 750 fecal droppings and 60 ceca at slaughter. Overall Campylobacter prevalence was 55.9%. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed 72.3% of all isolates as C. coli, 5.3% as C. jejuni, 10.6% as both, and 11.9% as other Campylobacter spp. PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism of the flaA gene subtyping detected 70 types—62 for C. coli and 8 for C. jejuni isolates—with most (80%) of flaA-types constituting farm homogeneous groups. Multilocus sequence typing of 99 selected Campylobacter isolates resulted in 23 sequence types (STs), consisting of 8 STs for C. jejuni and 15 STs for C. coli isolates. Six novel STs—four for C. jejuni and two—for C. coli, were detected. In a subset of isolates (n = 98) tested for antimicrobial resistance, the most common resistance was to tetracycline (95%), followed by azithromycin (43%), while 42% and 18% of the isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin and erythromycin, respectively. All isolates were susceptible to florfenicol. C. coli isolates displayed a higher proportion of resistance than C. jejuni to most antimicrobials. This study highlights the high prevalence, genotypic diversity, and antimicrobial resistance of Campylobacter spp. in commercial turkey from farm to slaughter.
Predominant Leptospiral Serogroups circulating among humans, livestock and wildlife in Katavi-Rukwa ecosystem, Tanzania
(PLOS Neglected Tropical Disease, 2015-03-25) Assenga, J. A.; Matemba, L. E.; Muller, S. K.; Mhamphi, G. G.; Kazwala, R. R.
Background: Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonotic disease and a serious, under-reported public health problem, particularly in rural areas of Tanzania. In the Katavi-Rukwa ecosystem, humans, livestock and wildlife live in close proximity, which exposes them to the risk of a number of zoonotic infectious diseases, including leptospirosis. Methodology/Principal Findings: A cross-sectional epidemiological study was carried out in the Katavi region, South-west Tanzania, to determine the seroprevalence of Leptospira spp in humans, domestic rumi- nants and wildlife. Blood samples were collected from humans (n = 267), cattle (n = 1,103), goats (n = 248), buffaloes (n = 38), zebra (n = 2), lions (n = 2), rodents (n = 207) and shrews (n = 11). Decanted sera were tested using the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) for an- tibodies against six live serogroups belonging to the Leptospira spp , with a cutoff point of 1:160. The prevalence of leptospiral antibodies was 29.96% in humans, 30.37% in cattle, 8.47% in goats, 28.95% in buffaloes, 20.29% in rodents and 9.09% in shrews. Additionally, one of the two samples in lions was seropositive. A significant difference in the prevalence P < 0.05 was observed between cattle and goats. No significant difference in prevalence was observed with respect to age and sex in humans or any of the sampled animal species. The most prevalent serogroups with antibodies of Leptospira spp were Sejroe, Hebdoma- dis, Grippotyphosa, Icterohaemorrhagie and Australis, which were detected in humans, cattle, goats and buffaloes; Sejroe and Grippotyphosa, which were detected in a lion; Aus- tralis, Icterohaemorrhagie and Grippotyphosa, which were detected in rodents; and Austra- lis, which was detected in shrews. Antibodies to serogroup Ballum were detected only in humans. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that leptospiral antibodies are widely prevalent in hu- mans, livestock and wildlife from the Katavi-Rukwa ecosystem. The disease poses a seri- ous economic and public health threat in the study area. This epidemiological study provides information on circulating serogroups, which will be essential in designing inter- vention measures to reduce the risk of disease transmission.