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A comparative study of the sero-prevalence of peste des petits ruminants virus among districts of different Agro-ecological Zones in Tanzania
(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2020) Mdetele, D.; Seth, M.; Kabululu, M.; Misinzo, G.; Komba, E.
Peste des petits Ruminants (PPR), a disease affecting sheep and goats, was confirmed in Tanzania in the year 2018. Since then the disease has continued to spread into different districts, causing significant socio-economic losses to livestock keepers. This study aimed at determining the sero-prevalence of PPR in 32 districts from the coastal, semi-arid and plateau ecological zones, respectively. Sera samples were collected from sheep and goats, and analysed by competitive Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (c-ELISA). Findings indicated that six (18.8%) districts had very high PPR sero-prevalence of which four (66.7%; Chamwino, Kondoa, Mvomero and Kilosa) belong to the semi-arid ecological zone and two (33.3%; Bagamoyo and Mkuranga) to the coastal ecological zone. Three districts (9.4%) had high PPR sero-prevalence, all from the semi-arid ecological zone. Twelve districts had low PPR sero- prevalence of which two (16.7%) were from semi-arid, one (8.3%) from coastal and nine (75.0%) from plateau ecological zones. A zero PPR sero-prevalence was recorded in three districts and eight districts from semi-arid and plateau ecological zones, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in sero-positivity between the different ecological zones, χ2 (2) = 9.121, p = 0.010, with a mean rank sero-positivity of 24.7% for coastal zone, 12.0% for plateau and 20.8% for semi-arid zone. Post hoc pairwise comparison with Bonferroni correction for multiple tests showed a statistically significant difference between plateau and semi-arid zones (p = 0.032). Although the coastal zone had a higher mean rank positivity than the plateau zone, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.083). The study suggests a zonal predisposition of PPR sero-prevalence with districts in the semi-arid and coastal zones having significantly higher values compared to those in the plateau ecological zones. Efforts for control of the disease need to concentrate in those two high risk ecological zones.
Occurrence of Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio parahaemolyticus among milkfish farms in Zanzibar
(Taylor & Francis, 2019) Mnyoro, Mang’era Samwel; Komba, Erick V. G.; Mmochic, Aviti J.
ABSTRACT Fishing is among the main economic activities of the people of Zanzibar. Few fish dealers are transforming this sector into mariculture. Among the farmed fish is milkfish. Diseases are among the limiting factors in the development of the maricul- ture industry. Among other zoonotic diseases, vibriosis is caused by bacteria from the genus Vibrio. This study aimed to establish the occurrence of Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio para- haemolyticus among milkfish farms in Zanzibar. A total of 380 milkfish were sampled. Swabs were collected from gills, intes- tine, and kidney of each sampled milkfish. Preliminary identifi- cation of V. cholerae and V. parahaemolyticus was done by biochemical tests. PCR was run on 16S rRNA, outer membrane protein W, and collagenase genes to confirm Vibrio species, V. cholerae, and V. parahaemolyticus respectively. Almost one- third (32.1%) of all sampled milkfish were found to contain targeted Vibrio; 18% and 29.5% of the sampled milkfish were positive for V. cholerae and V. parahaemolyticus respectively.
Detection and characterization of zoonotic Bartonella spp. in rodents and shrews ectoparasites from Kigoma and Morogoro Regions, Tanzania
(De Gruyter, 2023) Mhamphi, Ginethon G.; Msoffe, Venance T.; Lyimo, Charles M.; Katakweba, Abdul S.; Massawe, Apia W.; Komba, Erick V. G.; Mnyone, Ladslaus L.
Bartonellosis is a vector-borne disease which is increasingly threatening the health of humans and animals worldwide consequent to the growing wildlife-animals- human interactions. Little is known about the epidemiology of this disease in Tanzania. In this study we investigated and characterized Bartonella species in small mammals’ ectoparasites from potentially high-risk areas in the country. A total of 141 ectoparasites pools of mites, fleas, ticks, and lice were analyzed using conventional PCR and sequencing. Bartonella DNA was detected in 34.8 % of the tested ecto- parasite pools, with mites at 32.9 %, fleas at 40 %, ticks at 12.5 %, and lice at 50 %. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Bartonella spp. genotypes were closely related to those found in Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa. Different geno- types with independent haplotypes were observed, although most Bartonella spp. from fleas shared the same haplogroup. The confirmed presence of Bartonella elizabethae and Bar- tonella tribocorum in field and house rodents emphasizes the prevailing transmission risk of zoonotic infections in the study areas and beyond. Screening of humans, companion animals, and livestock in potentially high-risk areas in Tanzania is necessary in order to inform the development of responsive surveillance and control strategies.
Occurrence of helminths and coccidia in apparently healthy free range local chickens slaughtered at Morogoro live bird market
(Tanzania Veterinary Journal, 2013) Komba, E. V. G.; Mkupasi, E. M.; Mwesiga, G. K.; Mbyuzi, A. O.; Busagwe, Z.; Mzula, A.; Lupindu, A. M.; Nzalawahe, J.
Endoparasites are among important causes of mortality and reduced productivity in village chickens. This study was carried out to determine the presence of intestinal helminths and coccidia in apparently healthy free range local chickens slaughtered at Morogoro live bird market so as to establish the magnitude of the problem. A total of 252 intestines of slaughtered chickens were examined during the survey. Helminths were recovered and identified using standard methods. Smears of intestinal scrapings were examined under light microscope to detect coccidia oocysts. Two hundred and twenty chickens (87.3%) were infested with helminth species, whereas 28 birds (11.1%) were infected with coccidia. Twenty five birds (9.9%) had conjoint infestations with helminth and coccidia. In the present survey nine, different helminth species were recovered, namely; Ascaridia galli (10.5%); Heterakis gallinarum (5.3%); H. isolonche (3.9%); Capillaria spp. (2.6%); Raillietina echinobothrida (38.2%); R. tetragona (34.2%); R. cesticillus (2.6%); Choanotaenia infundibulum (1.3%) and Hymenolepsis cantaniana (1.3%). The predilection site for the cestodes was the small intestines except for H. cantaniana which was also recovered from the large intestines. With the nematodes, Capillaria spp. and H. isolonche were recovered from the caeca, H. gallinarum from small and large intestines and A. galli from all intestinal parts. Our findings indicate that helminth and coccidia are common and pose health problems in free range local chickens. Integrated sustainable control strategies need to be put in place to improve chicken productivity and enhance smallholder farmers’ livelihoods in the rural areas where most of the village chickens are produced.
Susceptibility of campylobacter strains to selected natural products and frontline antibiotics
(MDPI, 2020) Gahamanyi, Noel; Song, Dae-Geun; Hyun Cha, Kwang; Yoon, Kye-Yoon; Leonard E.; Mboera, G.; Matee, Mecky I.; Mutangana, Dieudonné; Amachawadi, Raghavendra G.; Komba, Erick V. G.; Pan, Cheol-Ho
Campylobacter species have developed resistance to existing antibiotics. The development of alternative therapies is, therefore, a necessity. This study evaluates the susceptibility of Campylobacter strains to selected natural products (NPs) and frontline antibiotics. Two C. jejuni strains (ATCC® 33560TM and MT947450) and two C. coli strains (ATCC® 33559TM and MT947451) were used. The antimicrobial potential of the NPs, including plant extracts, essential oils, and pure phytochemicals, was evaluated by broth microdilution. The growth was measured by spectrophotometry and iodonitrotetrazolium chloride. Antibiotic resistance genes (tet(O) and gyrA) were characterized at the molecular level. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) ranged from 25 to 1600 μg/mL. Cinnamon oil, (E)-Cinnamaldehyde, clove oil, eugenol, and baicalein had the lowest MIC and MBC values (25–100 μg/mL). MT947450 and MT947451 were sensitive to erythromycin and gentamicin but resistant to quinolones and tetracycline. Mutations in gyrA and tet(O) genes from resistant strains were confirmed by sequencing. The findings show that NPs are effective against drug-sensitive and drug-resistant Campylobacter strains. The resistance to antibiotics was confirmed at phenotypic and genotypic levels. This merits further studies to decipher the action mechanisms and synergistic activities of NPs
Evidence of carriage of antimicrobial resistant salmonella species of public health and veterinary significance in the intestines of house crows (corvus splendens) in Tanzania
(International Journal of TROPICAL DISEASE & Health, 2014) Katani, Shaaban J.; Komba, Erick V. G.; Mzula, Alexanda; Lyantagaye, Sylvester L.; Sosovele, Eva M.; Malebo, Hamisi M.
Background: The Indian house crow, Corvus splendens (Vieillot) was introduced in Zanzibar, Tanzania by the British and immigrants from India in 1897 to help clean the town. The crow is responsible for polluting the environment, water sources and human surroundings by their droppings and the rubbish they carry. This behavior has led to concern that, the crows may be responsible for the spread of certain pathogens including Salmonella and their persistence in the environment.Given the zoonotic potential of Salmonella, the main aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of antimicrobial resistant Salmonella infections in Indian house crows and to determine if the isolates were similar to those associated with disease in livestock or humans. Methods: Indian house crows were lured with meat and blood baits to land into the crow live-trap set at the Mabibo compound of the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) in Dar es Salaam city in Tanzania. A total of 100 house crows were captured, humanely sacrificed, and their small and large intestines were obtained by using aseptic techniques for microbiological investigations. Culture technique was employed to detect the presence of Salmonella in intestinal contents; and preliminary identification of the isolates was based on colonial characteristics on selective media and microscopic examination of smears following Gram staining. Confirmation of Salmonella species was done by biochemical tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by using the disc diffusion method on Mueller Hinton agar. Results and Discussion: Eight isolates were identified by standard microbiological techniques as Salmonella spp. (6 suggestive of Salmonella gallinarum and 2 suggestive of S. Typhi). All isolates were found to be susceptible to ciprofloxacin but resistant to amoxicillin. Lower levels of susceptibility were noted for chloramphenicol and ceftriaxone. Our results demonstrate the presence of antimicrobial resistant Salmonella spp. in the Indian house crows’ population and provide an indication of potential public and poultry health risks associated with these birds in the coastal area. Conclusion: The occurrence of antibiotic resistant S. Typhi and S. gallinarum among Indian house crows has both veterinary and public health consequences as they may be transmitted to poultry and humans. This therefore provides further rationale for the public action on eradicating the house crows.
Socio-economic impact of African swine fever outbreak of 2011 and its epidemiology in Isoka District of Zambia
(CABI Digital Library, 2014) Komba, E.V.G.; Karimuribo, E.D.; Kanemanema, M.C.
A study was carried out to evaluate the socio-economic impact of African swine fever (ASF) and associated epidemiological factors following the 2011 outbreak in Isoka district of Zambia. One hundred and twenty small holder farmers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire to collect information on the socio-economic impact of the outbreak. Blood samples were also collected from 190 pigs from 65 households in the areas previously affected by the ASF outbreak. Sera were harvested and subjected to antibody blocking Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent assay (b ELISA). Questionnaire survey revealed that the majority of farmers (51.0%) kept pigs for business. A large proportion of the remaining farmers (37.0%) kept pigs for home consumption. Eighty-four percent of the respondents were aware of ASF and 46.7% were directly affected by the 2011 outbreak which resulted into 50.0% reduction in pig population in the surveyed area. This ASF outbreak caused 99.9% mortality of affected pigs. The socio-economic impacts of the disease were in terms of loss of the pigs due to mortalities, loss of business and the cost of disease control. Serological analysis showed that no pig had circulating antibodies against ASF; suggesting that none of the exposed pigs during the outbreak survived. With our findings we can conclude that ASF is still an important trans- boundary animal disease (TAD) with enormous socio-economic impact that requires concerted efforts of all stakeholders in the enforcement of control and preventive measures.
Descriptive survey of peste des petits ruminants and contagious caprine pleuropneumonia outbreaks in traditional goat flocks in southern Tanzania: producers' concerns, knowledge and attitudes
(Livestock Research for Rural Development, 2015) Mbyuzi, A O; Komba, E V G; Cordery-Cotter, R; Magwisha, H B; Kimera, S I; Kambarage, D M
A questionnaire-based survey was carried out in the southern part of Tanzania with the aim of evaluating the concerns and attitudes of traditional small holder small ruminant keepers in reference to Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP) during the period of January 2013. The study involved 141 goat keepers and four randomly selected wards from a total of 30 in Tandahimba district of Mtwara region. The results show that 91% of the respondents indicated animal diseases as the major constraint, with others reporting inadequacy of feed resources (3.30%), conflicts between crop producers and animal keepers (2.50%), poor veterinary and extension services (1.70%), water scarcity (0.80%) and thefts(0.80%) as limiting factors. Seventy three percent of livestock keepers who indicated diseases to be the major constraint identified PPR and CCPP as the most important health constraints. Other diseases of importance were helminthosis (14.0%), foot rot (8.00%) and orf (5.0%). Most livestock keepers (62.0%) indicated nasal discharge, dyspnoea, rough hair coat and coughing as the major features of PPR and CCPP. CCPP and PPR were reported to occur mainly (p=0.00) during the rainy than the dry season and were associated with morbidities ranging from 84.1% to 100% and mortalities varying from 64.0% to 81.0% in goats. In sheep, the morbidities ranged from 58.0% to 81.4%, while mortality range was 58.1%-74.0%.The morbidities and mortalities in goats were significantly higher (p=0.013) than those in sheep. The results thus indicate that smallholder small ruminant farmers in the emerging animal keeping area in the southern part of Tanzania consider PPR and CCPP as their major limiting factors which require immediate redress in terms of improved surveillance and control measures.
Human and animal thermophilic campylobacter infections in East African countries: epidemiology and antibiogram
(Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research, 2017) Komba, Erick VG
Purpose: Campylobacter mediated diarrhoea is a leading cause of gastroenteritis worldwide. The organisms colonize the gastrointestinal tract of different animal species without causing disease symptoms. Humans acquire infections through contact with or consumption of contaminated meat especially raw/undercooked poultry meat. The rapid emergence of antibiotic-resistant Campylobacter strains heightens the public health concern of the organisms. The aim of this review was to summarise information on the epidemiology and antibiogram of Campylobacter in humans and animals in East African countries. Method: A structured literature search of PUBMED and Science Direct electronic databases. Results: Forty reports on thermophilic Campylobacter were identified in four of the five East African countries in the following order; Kenya (16), Tanzania (17), Uganda (4) and Rwanda (3). No study was found to report thermophilic Campylobacter infections in either humans or animals in Burundi. Studies on animals reported colonization of both domestic and wild species. Of the studies that described Campylobacter infections in humans, both symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects were reported to be infected; with higher prevalence in subjects younger than five years old. Among isolates, some demonstrated antimicrobial resistance. Conclusion: Available information for both human and animal Campylobacteriosis in the region is however sparse thus calling for more research to better understand the epidemiology of infections caused by the organism including clonal dependence and independence of human and animal derived isolates. This understanding will help researchers and health program developers in designing and implementing effective control strategies. Since the organism is zoonotic its control strategies should adopt the “One Health” approach involving collaborative efforts from veterinary and human medicine.
Occurrence and determination of antimicrobial resistant escherichia coli isolates in fish and vegetables as indicator organism of faecal contamination in Dar es salaam, Tanzania
(Hindawi International Journal of Microbiology, 2021) Mwanza, Francis; Komba, Erick Vitus Gabriel; Kambarage, Dominic Mukama
Escherichia coli such as E. coli O157:H7, a non-sorbitol-fermenting (NSF) E. coli, is an essential human pathogen among other common zoonotic pathogens carried by animals especially cattle. ,ey are discharged through cattle faeces into the environment. With the increasing practice of urban farming, livestock manure is used as organic fertiliser in either fish ponds or vegetable gardens. ,is practice increases the risk of transmission of such pathogens to humans. ,is study aimed at determining the occurrence, antimicrobial resistance profiles, and genetic relatedness of E. coli isolates from manure, vegetables, and fish. Microbiological standard methods were used to isolate and identify E. coli isolates from manure, vegetable, and fish samples. Confirmed isolates on biochemical tests were tested for resistance against six antibiotics using the disc diffusion method. Enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus polymerase chain reaction (ERIC-PCR) typing method was used to generate fingerprints and determine the genetic relatedness of the E. coli isolates. Of 156 samples including 89 manure, 53 vegetables, and 16 fish, 36 (23.1%) samples were positive for E. coli from where a total of 48 E. coli different isolates were recovered that were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing and genetic relatedness. Of these isolates, 25 (52.1%) were resistant to at least one antimicrobial agent and 12 (48.0%) showed multidrug resistance. ERIC-PCR profiles of E. coli isolates from manure, vegetables, and fish showed genetic diversity with genetic relatedness ranging from 74.5% to 100%. Nine phylogenetic clusters (I–IX) determined at 90% threshold level of genetic relatedness were identified among the isolates. ,is study determined the occurrence, antimicrobial resistant patterns, and genetic diversity of antimicrobial-resistant E. coli isolates from different sources. ,is study showed the potential of microbial health risk to humans through contamination, and hence, it is necessary to monitor and improve husbandry practices in urban farming.
Mechanisms and contextual factors affecting the implementation of animal health surveillance in Tanzania: a process evaluation
(Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2022) George, Janeth; Häsler, Barbara; Komba, Erick V. G.; Rweyemamu, Mark; Kimera, Sharadhuli I.; Mlangwa, James E. D.
A strong animal health surveillance system is an essential determinant of the health of animal and human population. To ensure its functionality and performance, it needs to be evaluated regularly. Therefore, a process evaluation was conducted in this study to assess animal health surveillance processes, mechanisms and the contextual factors which facilitate or hinder uptake, implementation and sustainability of the system in Tanzania. A mixed-method study design was used to evaluate the national animal health surveillance system guided by a framework for process evaluation of complex interventions developed by Moore and others. The system was assessed against standard guidelines and procedures using the following attributes: fidelity, adherence, exposure, satisfaction, participation rate, recruitment and context. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using a cross-sectional survey, key informant interviews, document review, site visits and non-participant observation. Data from questionnaires were downloaded, cleaned and analyzed in MicrosoftTM Excel. Qualitative data were analyzed following deductive thematic and content analysis methods. Fidelity attribute showed that case identification is mainly based on clinical signs due to limited laboratory services for confirmation. Data collection was not well-coordinated and there were multiple disparate reporting channels. Adherence in terms of the proportion of reports submitted per month was only 61% of the target. District-level animal health officials spent an average of 60% of their weekly time on surveillance-related activities, but only 12% of them were satisfied with the surveillance system. Their dissatisfaction was caused by large area coverage with little to no facilitation, poor communication, and lack of a supporting system. The cost of surveillance data was found to be 1.4 times higher than the annual surveillance budget. The timeliness of the system ranged between 0 and 153 days from the observation date (median = 2 days, mean = 6 days). The study pointed out some deviations in animal health surveillance processes from the standard guidelines and their implication on the system’s performance. The system could be improved by developing a user-friendly unified reporting system, the active involvement of subnational level animal health officials, optimization of data sources and an increase in the horizon of the financing mechanism.
Drug susceptibility profiles and factors associated with non-tuberculous mycobacteria species circulating among patients diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis in Tanzania
(PLoS ONE, 2022) Maya, Togolani Godfrey; Komba, Erick Vitus; Mensah, Gloria Ivy; Mbelele, Peter Masunga; Mpagama, Stella George; Mfinanga, Sayoki Godfrey; Addo, Kennedy Kwasi; Kazwala, Rudovick Reuben
Background While most Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are saprophytic, several species have been associated with human diseases, from localized infection to disseminated diseases. Pulmonary NTM infections lead to TB-like disease called NTM pulmonary disease (NTM- PD). Due to variation in treatment options among NTM species, it is necessary to identify the species and determine drug susceptibility profiles to inform the choice of appropriate regimen for the disease. Design A total of 188 culture-positive isolates from patients diagnosed with TB were screened for NTM at the Central Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory. All NTM were further speciated using GenoType® Mycobacterium—Common Mycobacterium and Additional species (GenoType® CM/AS) kit. Mycobacteria avium complex (MAC) and Mycobacteria absces- sus complex (MABC) which could not be identified with the test to species were subjected to GenoType® Mycobacteria NTM-DR for further speciation. Using the same test, identified MAC and MABC were genotyped to determine the drug susceptibility profile for each isolate to macrolide and aminoglycosides. Results Of all isolates identified as mycobacteria, 24 (13%) were NTM. Fifteen isolates could be identified to species level of which prevalent species was M. avium sub. intracellulare 4 (27%). A total of 10 isolates were MAC (n = 6) and MABC (n = 4) were subjected to Geno- Type® Mycobacteria NTM-DR for determination of macrolide and aminoglycoside suscepti- bility. Three of the four MABC had a mutation at the T28 position of the erm (41). All MAC were susceptible to both drugs. Conclusion In this study, MAC was the most frequently isolated NTM species followed by MABC. While all MAC and MABC identified, were susceptible to aminoglycosides, three MABC were resistant to the macrolides due to mutation at position 28 of the erm (41) gene. For this, it is important for clinicians need to rule out NTM, understand species and their drug susceptibil- ity for optimal case management.
A literature survey of common parasitic zoonoses encountered at post-mortem examination in slaughter stocks in Tanzania: economic and public health implications
(Biomedical Journal of Science & Technical Research, 2017) Komba, Erick VG
Zoonoses caused by parasites constitute a large group of infectious diseases with varying host ranges and patterns of transmission. Their distribution, prevalence and transmission patterns are affected by the influence of both human and environmental factors. The economic and public health impact of such zoonoses warrants appropriate surveillance to obtain enough information that will provide inputs in the design and implementation of control strategies. A need therefore arises to regularly re-evaluate the current status of zoonotic diseases, particularly in view of new data available as a result of surveillance activities and the application of new technologies. Consequently this paper summarizes available information in Tanzania on parasitic zoonoses encountered in slaughter stocks during post-mortem examination at slaughter facilities. The occurrence, in slaughter stocks, of fasciola spp, Echinococcus granulosus (hydatid) cysts, Taenia saginata Cysts, Taenia solium Cysts and ascaris spp. have been reported by various researchers. Information on these parasitic diseases is presented in this paper as they are the most important ones encountered in slaughter stocks in the country.
Where and when to vaccinate? Interdisciplinary design and evaluation of the 2018 Tanzanian anti-rabies campaign
(Elsevier, 2020) Fasina, Folorunso O.; Mtui-Malamshaa, Niwael; Mahiti, Gladys R.; Sallu, Raphael; OleNeselle, Moses; Rubegwa, Bachana; Makonnen, Yilma J.; Kafeero, Fred; Ruheta, Martin; Nonga, Hezron E.; Swai, Emmanuel; Makungu, Selemani; Killewo, Japhet; Otieno, Edward G.; Lupindu, Athumani M.; Komba, Erick; Mdegela, Robinson; Assenga, Justine K.; Bernard, Jubilate; Hussein, Mohamed; Marandu, Walter; Warioba, James; Kaaya, Eliona; Masanja, Pius; Francis, Gundelinda; Kessy, Violet M.; Savy, Janique; Choyo, Hija; Ochieng, Justus; Hoogesteijn, Almira L.; Fasina, Margaret M.; Rivas, Ariel L.
Objectives: Hoping to improve health-related effectiveness, a two-phase vaccination against rabies was designed and executed in northern Tanzania in 2018, which included geo-epidemiological and economic perspectives. Methods: Considering the local bio-geography and attempting to rapidly establish a protective ring around a city at risk, the first phase intervened on sites surrounding that city, where the population density was lower than in the city at risk. The second phase vaccinated a rural area. Results: No rabies-related case has been reported in the vaccinated areas for over a year post- immunisation; hence, the campaign is viewed as highly cost-effective. Other metrics included: rapid implementation (concluded in half the time spent on other campaigns) and the estimated cost per protected life, which was 3.28 times lower than in similar vaccinations. Conclusions: The adopted design emphasised local bio-geographical dynamics: it prevented the occurrence of an epidemic in a city with a higher demographic density than its surrounding area and it also achieved greater effectiveness than average interventions. These interdisciplinary, policy-oriented experiences have broad and immediate applications in settings of limited and/or time-sensitive (expertise, personnel, and time available to intervene) resources and conditions.
Emodin modulates gut microbial community and triggers intestinal immunity
(John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 2022) Mabwi, Humphrey A.; Lee, Hee Ju; Hitayezu, Emmanuel; Mauliasari, Intan Rizki; Pan, Cheol-Ho; Mwaikono, Kilaza Samson; Komba, Erick V. G.; Lee, Choong-Gu; Hyun Cha, Kwang
BACKGROUND: The gut microbiota (GM) plays an important role in human health and is being investigated as a possible target for new therapies. Although there are many studies showing that emodin can improve host health, emodin–GM studies are scarce. Here, the effects of emodin on the GM were investigated in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS: In vitro single bacteria cultivation showed that emodin stimulated the growth of beneficial bacteria Akkermansia, Clostridium, Roseburia, and Ruminococcus but inhibited major gut enterotypes (Bacteroides and Prevotella). Microbial community analysis from a synthetic gut microbiome model through co-culture indicated the consistent GM change by emodin. Interestingly, emodin stimulated Clostridium and Ruminococcus (which are related to Roseburia and Faecalibacterium) in a mice experiment and induced anti-inflammatory immune cells, which may correlate with its impact on specific gut bacteria. CONCLUSION: Emodin (i) showed similar GM changes in monoculture, co-culture, and in an in vivo mice experiment and (ii) simulated regulatory T-cell immune responses in vivo. This suggest that emodin may be used to modulate the GM and improve health.
Occurrence and seasonal predisposition of fasciolosis in cattle and goats slaughtered in Kasulu district abattoir, Western Tanzania
(ROAVS, 2013) Nzalawahe, Jahashi; Komba, Erick V.G.
A 3 year study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of fasciolosis in cattle and goats slaughtered at Kasulu district abattoir. It involved 33 months (July, 2010 to March, 2013) retrospective data collected as abattoir records and three months (April, 2013 to June, 2013) prospective meat inspection by researchers, during which adult worm and egg samples were collected for morphometric identification. During the study period, a total of 8410 cattle and 8424 goats were slaughtered and inspected; out of which 6376 (76%) and 2295 (26%) were found to be infected with fasciolosis respectively. The study observed significant seasonal pattern of fasciolosis in cattle with higher prevalence observed during the dry season. Worm and egg identification suggested that F. gigantica was responsible for the infections in slaughtered cattle and goats. This is the first study to report the occurrence of fasciolosis in domesticated ruminants in western Tanzania and has established that fasciolosis is highly prevalent in cattle and goats. Effective control strategies need to be put in place focusing on both the parasite and the snail intermediate hosts.
Adoption of I2 vaccine in immunization of village chickens against newcastle disease virus in southern Tanzania: immune status of farmer vaccinated birds
(Journal of Agricultural Science, 2012) Komba, Erick VG; Mbyuzi, Albano O.; Mulangila, Rutashobya CT
Newcastle disease (ND) is an economically important disease of poultry for which vaccination is applied as a preventive measure in many countries. In June 2009 we conducted a survey to establish the immune status of village chickens against ND virus in villages where vaccination programs, using thermotolerant ND I2 vaccine were adopted by farmers in southern Tanzania. One hundred farmers from ten villages in three district councils were involved. Blood samples were collected from 499 chickens and sera harvested for Hemmagglutination Inhibition (HI) test. Results indicated that 73.3% of the sampled birds had protective levels of antibodies against ND virus. A significantly large proportional of vaccinated adult chickens attained protective immunity as compared to growers and chicks. We recommend advocating ND I2 in other village chicken keeping communities of the country for ND control. Additionally farmers need to be educated on control measures for other important diseases of village chickens.
Human and animal Campylobacteriosis in Tanzania: a review
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2013) Komba, Erick V.G.; Mdegela, Robinson H.; Msoffe, Peter L.M.; Ingmer, Hanne
The thermotolerant species of Campylobacter have become very important in public health, particularly as agents of infectious diarrhoea in human beings. Though the mechanism by which they cause disease is yet to be fully explained, they have been recognized as the leading cause of bacterial enteritis in both developed and developing countries. The organisms colonize different animal species without causing any symptoms of disease; and humans acquire infections through contact with or consumption of contaminated meat especially raw/undercooked poultry meat. The growing trend of antibiotic resistant Campylobacter isolates continues to pose significant public health challenges. In this review we present the available information generated in Tanzania about Campylobacter infections in humans and animals. We conducted a structured literature search of PUBMED and ScienceDirect electronic databases and identified 15 articles. Studies on humans reported Campylobacter infections in both symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects; with higher prevalence in children under the age of five years. Studies on animals found colonization of both domestic and wild species. Among isolates, some demonstrated antimicrobial resistance. The available information for both human and animal Campylobacteriosis in the country is sparse. It however provides an insight of the bacteriological and epidemiological aspects of Campylobacter infections in the country and eventually creates more awareness on the need to develop control strategies. Since the organism is zoonotic its control strategies should adopt the “One Health” approach involving collaborative efforts from veterinary and human medicine.
Review of peste des petits ruminants occurrence and spread in Tanzania
(MDPI, 2021) Mdetele, Daniel Pius; Komba, Erick; Seth, Misago Dimson; Misinzo, Gerald; Kock, Richard; Jones, Bryony Anne
Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is an important transboundary animal disease of domestic small ruminants, camels, and wild artiodactyls. The disease has significant socio-economic impact on communities that depend on livestock for their livelihood and is a threat to endangered susceptible wild species. The aim of this review was to describe the introduction of PPR to Tanzania and its sub- sequent spread to different parts of the country. On-line databases were searched for peer-reviewed and grey literature, formal and informal reports were obtained from Tanzanian Zonal Veterinary Investigation Centres and Laboratories, and Veterinary Officers involved with PPR surveillance were contacted. PPR virus (PPRV) was confirmed in northern Tanzania in 2008, although serological data from samples collected in the region in 1998 and 2004, and evidence that the virus was already circulating in Uganda in 2003, suggests that PPRV might have been present earlier than this. It is likely that the virus which became established in Tanzania was introduced from Kenya between 2006–7 through the cross-border movement of small ruminants for trade or grazing resources, and then spread to eastern, central, and southern Tanzania from 2008 to 2010 through movement of small ruminants by pastoralists and traders. There was no evidence of PPRV sero-conversion in wildlife based on sera collected up to 2012, suggesting that they did not play a vectoring or bridging role in the establishment of PPRV in Tanzania. PPRV lineages II, III and IV have been detected, indicating that there have been several virus introductions. PPRV is now considered to be endemic in sheep and goats in Tanzania, but there has been no evidence of PPR clinical disease in wildlife species in Tanzania, although serum samples collected in 2014 from several wild ruminant species were PPRV sero-positive. Similarly, no PPR disease has been observed in cattle and camels. In these atypical hosts, serological evidence indicates exposure to PPRV infection, most likely through spillover from infected sheep and goats. Some of the challenges for PPRV eradication in Tanzania include movements of small ruminants, including transboundary movements, and the capacity of veterinary services for disease surveillance and vaccination. Using wildlife and atypical domestic hosts for PPR surveillance is a useful indicator of endemism and the ongoing circulation of PPRV in livestock, especially during the implementation of vaccination to control or eliminate the disease in sheep and goats. PPR disease has a major socio-economic impact in Tanzania, which justifies the investment in a comprehensive PPRV eradication programme.
Mapping and gap analysis on antimicrobial resistance surveillance systems in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia
(Springer Nature, 2023) Matee, Mecky; Mshana, Stephen E.; Mtebe, Majigo; Komba, Erick Vitus; Moremi, Nyambura; Lutamwa, Julius; Kapona, Otrida; Sekamatte, Musa; Mboera, Leonard E. G.
Background Antimicrobial resistance is a global problem and involve pathogens which have the potential to move between food producing animals and humans by direct exposure or through the food chain or the environment. The objective of this study was to determine the performance in addressing antimicrobial resistance in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. Desk review and in-depth interviews were employed for data collection. Interviews were con- ducted with national antimicrobial resistance focal officials. Results The findings indicate that in the four countries there was minimal capacity to conduct AMR surveillance. There were few well-established laboratories in tertiary hospitals, both private and public hospitals. The animal, envi- ronment and agricultural sectors in all countries had limited capacity in conducting antimicrobial resistance surveil- lance. There is limited data on antimicrobial resistance in all the four countries, and regional data sharing was limited. In all the four countries, data from research institutions were not linked using standardized system making difficult to compile the national database. The capacity for microbiological culture, identification and antimicrobial sensitivity testing using standardized protocols was available in the four countries. The interventions adopted by the countries included development of National Action Plans on antimicrobial resistance and setting up of multi-sectoral national coordinating structures. Conclusions Based on this findings, the countries need improved National Integrated Antimicrobial Resistance Sur- veillance systems to include community settings, involving antimicrobial use and resistance in human, animal, food, and environment sectors. In addition, the region requires clear antimicrobial resistance data sharing protocol for quick comparability of the data across the region. This is important in driving antimicrobial resistance agendas at regional level, which will eventually trigger collective actions.

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