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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.
Antimicrobial resistance profiles, virulence genes, and genetic diversity of thermophilic campylobacter species isolated from a layer poultry farm in Korea
(Frontiers in Microbiology, 2021) Gahamanyi, Noel; Yoon, Kye-Yoon; Mboera, Leonard E. G.; Matee, Mecky I.; Mutangana, Dieudonné; Amachawadi, Raghavendra G.; Komba, Erick V. G.; Pan, Cheol-Ho
Thermophilic Campylobacter species are among the major etiologies of bacterial enteritis globally. This study aimed at assessing the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles, virulence genes, and genetic diversity of thermophilic Campylobacter species isolated from a layer poultry farm in South Korea. One hundred fifty-three chicken feces were collected from two layer poultry farms in Gangneung, South Korea. The Campylobacter species were isolated by cultural techniques, while PCR and sequencing were used for species confirmation. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing for six antimicrobials [ciprofloxacin (CIP), nalidixic acid (NAL), sitafloxacin (SIT), erythromycin (ERY), tetracycline (TET), and gentamicin (GEN)] was carried out by broth microdilution. Three AMR and nine virulence genes were screened by PCR. Genotyping was performed by flaA-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Of the 153 samples, Campylobacter spp. were detected in 55 (35.9%), with Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli being 49 (89.1%) and six (10.9%), respectively. High-level resistance was observed for CIP (100%), NAL (100%), and TET (C. jejuni, 93.9%; C. coli: 83.3%). No resistance was observed for SIT. The missense mutation (C257T) in gyrA gene was confirmed by sequencing, while the tet(O) gene was similar to known sequences in GenBank. The rate of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains was 8.2%, and they all belonged to C. jejuni. All Campylobacter isolates possessed five virulence genes (cdtB, cstII, flaA, cadF, and dnaJ), but none possessed ggt, while the rates for other genes (csrA, ciaB, and pldA) ranged between 33.3 and 95.9%. The flaA-RFLP yielded 26 flaA types (C. jejuni: 21 and C. coli: five), while the MLST showed 10 sequence types (STs) for C. jejuni and three STs for C. coli, with CC-607 (STs 3611) and CC-460 (ST-460) being predominant. Among the 10 STs of C. jejuni, three were newly assigned. The findings of this study highlight the increased resistance to quinolones and TET, the virulence potential, and the diverse genotypes among Campylobacter strains isolated from the layer poultry farm.
Antimicrobial resistance profiles of escherichia coli isolated from broiler and layer chickens in Arusha and Mwanza, Tanzania
(International Journal of Microbiology, 2021) Kiiti, Ruth W.; Komba, Erick V.; Msoffe, Peter L.; Mshana, Stephen E.; Rweyemamu, Mark; Matee, Mecky I. N.
(e rise in the spread of antibiotic-resistant pathogens such as Escherichia coli is one of the very important dynamics oﬀ-putting treatment and prophylaxis possibilities, hence posing a threat to the modern human medicine, veterinary medicine, and food safety. (erefore, the aim of this study was to determine antimicrobial resistance proﬁles in E. coli isolates obtained from broiler and layer chickens in Mwanza and Arusha regions in Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was carried out from February to March, 2021, in 402 poultry farms in Mwanza (201) and Arusha (201) regions in Tanzania. All samples that tested positive for E. coli were conﬁrmed using MALDI-TOF MS, and two hundred and four (204) E. coli isolates were randomly chosen and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing by disc diﬀusion method. Data were entered in Microsoft Excel® and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Isolates were tested against seven antimicrobial agents belonging to seven classes of antimicrobials. All the tested isolates (n � 204) were resistant to at least one antimicrobial agent. Overall, the highest resistance was observed in ampicillin (100%), whereas the lowest resistance was recorded for gentamicin (10.3%). Majority of the isolates (86.76%) were multidrug resistant. Antimicrobial resistance of E. coli to four classes of antimicrobial agents was the highest in this study (31.1%). Six of the 177 tested isolates (2.9%) were resistant to the seven classes of antimicrobial agents. 21 of the 204 (10.29%) isolates were ESBL producers where 21/21 (100%) isolates expressed blaTEM genes and only two isolates expressed (2/21) blaCTX-M gene. (e isolates obtained in this study displayed high resistance to commonly used antimicrobial agents in veterinary and human medicine. (is implies that there is existence of practices that accelerate antimicrobial resistance in the production of the sampled birds and therefore integration of appropriate use of antimicrobial agents and other measures that curb the spread of resistant genes is necessary.
Ethnobotany, ethnopharmacology, and phytochemistry of medicinal plants used for treating human diarrheal cases in Rwanda: a review
(MDPI, 2021) Munyaneza, Emmanuel; Dukuzimana, Emmanuel; Tuyiringire, Naasson; Pan, Cheol-Ho; Komba, Erick V. G.
Diarrhea, often caused by microorganisms, has been associated with high morbidity and mortality in Africa. Increased rates of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens have reignited the quest for alternative therapies. This review aimed at identifying medicinal plants used in the treatment of human diarrheal cases in Rwanda and analyzing their ethnobotany, ethnopharmacology, and phytochemistry. We searched PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and the Web of Science for published articles on medicinal plants used to treat diarrhea in Rwanda. Additionally, specialized herbarium documents of different institutes were reviewed. Articles were assessed for relevance, quality, and taxonomical accuracy before being included in this review. Overall, 63 species of medicinal plants belonging to 35 families were recorded. Asteraceae was the predominant family with six species, followed by Fabaceae and Lamiaceae, with five species each. The most reported species with anti-diarrheal properties were Vernonia amygdalina Delile, Tetradenia riparia (Hochst.) Codd, Clerodendrum myricoides R. Br. and Chenopodium ugandae (Aellen) Aellen. Leaves (66.7%) and roots (17.5%) were the commonly used plant parts in the preparation of medicine. Phytochemicals from medicinal plants with antidiarrheic activities were sesquiterpene lactones (V. amygdalina); terpene, sterols, saponosides, and flavonoids (C. ugandae); saponins and tannins (T. riparia); and tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids (C. myricoides). Six studies tested the antimicrobial activities of the plants against bacteria and viruses known to cause diarrhea. Erythrina abyssinica, Euphorbia tirucalli, Dracaena afromontana, and Ficus thonningii are socio-culturally important. Further research on toxicity and posology is needed to ensure the safety of medicinal plants.
Multidrug-resistant uropathogens causing community acquired urinary tract infections among patients attending health facilities in Mwanza and Dar es salaam, Tanzania
(MDPI, 2022) Silago, Vitus; Moremi, Nyambura; Mtebe, Majigo; Komba, Erick; Masoud, Salim; Mgaya, Fauster X.; Mirambo, Mariam M.; Nyawale, Helmut A.; Mshana, Stephen E.; Matee, Mecky Isaac
In low-income countries, the empirical treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) without laboratory confirmation is very common, especially in primary health facilities. This scenario often leads to unnecessary and ineffective antibiotic prescriptions, prompting the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance. We conducted this study to examine the antibiogram of uropathogens causing community-acquired urinary tract infections among outpatients attending selected health facilities in Tanzania. Method: This was a cross-sectional health centre-based survey conducted for a period of five months, from July to November 2021, in the Mwanza and Dar es Salaam regions in Tan- zania. We enrolled consecutively a total of 1327 patients aged between 2 and 96 years with a median [IQR] age of 28 [22–39] from Dar es Salaam (n = 649) and Mwanza (n = 678). Results: Significant bac- teriuria was observed in 364 (27.4% [95%CI: 25.0–29.9]) patients, from whom 412 urinary pathogens were isolated. Gram-negative bacteria contributed to 57.8% (238) of the 412 uropathogens isolated, of which 221 were Enterobacterales, and Escherichia coli was the most frequent. Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus haemolyticus were the most frequently isolated among Gram-positive uropathogens (n = 156). Generally, resistance among Escherichia coli ranged from 0.7% (meropenem) to 86.0% (ampi- cillin) and from 0.0% (meropenem) to 75.6% (ampicillin) in other Enterobacterales. Moreover, about 45.4% (108) of Enterobacterales and 22.4% (35) of Gram-positive bacteria were multidrug resistant (MDR), p = 0.008. We observed 33 MDR patterns among Gram-negative bacteria, predominantly AMP-CIP-TCY (23/108; 21.3%), and 10 MDR patterns among Gram-positive bacteria, most com- monly CIP-GEN-TCY (22/35; 62.9%). Conclusion: the presence of a high number of wide-ranging uropathogens that are multidrug resistant to a variety of antibiotics points to the need to strengthen the laboratory diagnostic systems for the regular surveillance of the antimicrobial resistance of uropathogens to guide and update empirical treatment guidelines.
Toxoplasma gondii in cattle, camels and sheep in Isfahan and Chaharmahal va bakhtiary provinces, Iran
(Jundishapur Journal of Microbiology, 2014) Khamesipour, Faham; Doosti, Abbas; Mobarakeh, Hamid Iranpour; Komba, Erick V.G.
Background: Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite, which is assumed to have cosmopolitan distribution. Objectives: Adopting a cross-sectional study design the current research aimed to determine the occurrence of the parasite in cattle, camels and sheep in Isfahan and Chaharmahal va Bakhtiary provinces of Iran. Materials and Methods: Animals in the field and those brought for slaughter at abattoirs were included. Blood samples were randomly collected from animals and investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: T. gondii infections were detected in 0.00%, 6.60% and 17.9% of the sample cattle (n = 155), camels (n = 122) and sheep (n = 95) respectively. Sheep were more frequently affected in Chaharmahal va Bakhtiary (33.33%) compared to Isfahan (8.47%) (P = 0.005, 95%; CI = 6.88-43.35). No statistically significant difference was observed in infection prevalence between camels and sheep; and between the different sex categories in both camels and sheep. Conclusions: Evidence of T. gondii occurrence in sheep and camels was provided in the provinces under study. There is a need to investigate the potential risk factors of zoonotic infections. Furthermore, animal health and production losses caused by the parasite; and associated zoonotic implications in the area under study need to be explored.
Towards an integrated animal health surveillance system in Tanzania: making better use of existing and potential data sources for early warning surveillance
(Springer Nature, 2021) George, Janeth; Häsler, Barbara; Komba, Erick; Sindato, Calvin; Rweyemamu, Mark; Mlangwa, James
Background: Effective animal health surveillance systems require reliable, high-quality, and timely data for decision making. In Tanzania, the animal health surveillance system has been relying on a few data sources, which suffer from delays in reporting, underreporting, and high cost of data collection and transmission. The integration of data from multiple sources can enhance early detection and response to animal diseases and facilitate the early control of outbreaks. This study aimed to identify and assess existing and potential data sources for the animal health surveillance system in Tanzania and how they can be better used for early warning surveillance. The study used a mixed-method design to identify and assess data sources. Data were collected through document reviews, internet search, cross-sectional survey, key informant interviews, site visits, and non-participant observation. The assessment was done using pre-defined criteria. Results: A total of 13 data sources were identified and assessed. Most surveillance data came from livestock farmers, slaughter facilities, and livestock markets; while animal dip sites were the least used sources. Commercial farms and veterinary shops, electronic surveillance tools like AfyaData and Event Mobile Application (EMA-i) and information systems such as the Tanzania National Livestock Identification and Traceability System (TANLITS) and Agricultural Routine Data System (ARDS) show potential to generate relevant data for the national animal health surveillance system. The common variables found across most sources were: the name of the place (12/13), animal type/species (12/13), syndromes (10/13) and number of affected animals (8/13). The majority of the sources had good surveillance data contents and were accessible with medium to maximum spatial coverage. However, there was significant variation in terms of data frequency, accuracy and cost. There were limited integration and coordination of data flow from the identified sources with minimum to non-existing automated data entry and transmission. Conclusion: The study demonstrated how the available data sources have great potential for early warning surveillance in Tanzania. Both existing and potential data sources had complementary strengths and weaknesses; a multi-source surveillance system would be best placed to harness these different strengths.
Synthetic gut microbiome: Advances and challenges
(Elsevier, 2020) Mabwi, Humphrey A.; Kim, Eunjung; Song, Dae-Geun; Yoon, Hyo Shin; Pan, Cheol-Ho; Komba, Erick V.G.; Ko, GwangPyo; Hyun Cha, Kwang
An exponential rise in studies regarding the association among human gut microbial communities, human health, and diseases is currently attracting the attention of researchers to focus on human gut microbiome research. However, even with the ever-growing number of studies on the human gut micro- biome, translation into improved health is progressing slowly. This hampering is due to the complexities of the human gut microbiome, which is composed of >1,000 species of microorganisms, such as bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi. To overcome this complexity, it is necessary to reduce the gut microbiome, which can help simplify experimental variables to an extent, such that they can be deliberately manip- ulated and controlled. Reconstruction of synthetic or established gut microbial communities would make it easier to understand the structure, stability, and functional activities of the complex microbial commu- nity of the human gut. Here, we provide an overview of the developments and challenges of the synthetic human gut microbiome, and propose the incorporation of multi-omics and mathematical methods in a better synthetic gut ecosystem design, for easy translation of microbiome information to therapies.

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