Investigating and combatting the key drivers of viral zoonoses in Africa: an analysis of eight epidemics

Investigating the interplay of factors that result in a viral zoonotic outbreak is difficult, though it is increasingly important. As anthropogenic influences shift the delicate balance of ecosystems, new zoonoses emerge in humans. Sub-Saharan Africa is a notable hotspot for zoonotic disease due to...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Brazilian journal of biology 2024, Vol.84, p.e270857-e270857
Main Authors: Isibor, P O, Onwaeze, O O, Kayode-Edwards, I I, Agbontaen, D O, Ifebem-Ezima, I-A M, Bilewu, O, Onuselogu, C, Akinniyi, A P, Obafemi, Y D, Oniha, M I
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Africa - epidemiology
Animals
BIOLOGY
Ebola
ecological restoration
Ecosystem
epidemic
HIV
Humans
Lassa fever
Mammals
monkeypox
omicron
pandemic
Pandemics
Rift Valley fever
Viral Zoonoses - epidemiology
West Nile virus
Zika Virus
Zika Virus Infection - epidemiology
zoonoses
Zoonoses - epidemiology
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Summary:Investigating the interplay of factors that result in a viral zoonotic outbreak is difficult, though it is increasingly important. As anthropogenic influences shift the delicate balance of ecosystems, new zoonoses emerge in humans. Sub-Saharan Africa is a notable hotspot for zoonotic disease due to abundant competent mammalian reservoir hosts. Furthermore, poverty, corruption, and an overreliance on natural resources play considerable roles in depleting biological resources, exacerbating the population's susceptibility. Unsurprisingly, viral zoonoses have emerged in Africa, including HIV/AIDS, Ebola, Avian influenza, Lassa fever, Zika, and Monkeypox. These diseases are among the principal causes of death in endemic areas. Though typically distinct in their manifestations, viral zoonoses are connected by underlying, definitive factors. This review summarises vital findings on viral zoonoses in Africa using nine notable case studies as a benchmark for future studies. We discuss the importance of ecological recuperation and protection as a central strategy to control zoonotic diseases. Emphasis was made on moderating key drivers of zoonotic diseases to forestall future pandemics. This is in conjunction with attempts to redirect efforts from reactive to pre-emptive through a multidisciplinary "one health" approach.
ISSN:1519-6984
1678-4375
1678-4375
DOI:10.1590/1519-6984.270857