NRU :: Browsing by Author "Ejobi, Francis"

Browsing by Author "Ejobi, Francis"

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Artemisia Annua L. Infusion Consumed Once a Week Reduces Risk of Multiple Episodes of Malaria: A Randomised Trial in a Ugandan Community
(Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 2012) Ogwang, Patrick E.; Ogwal, Jasper O.; Kasasa, Simon; Olila, Deogratius; Ejobi, Francis; Kabasa, David; Obua, Celestino
To evaluate the protective effect of Artemisia annua infusion against malaria in a community that uses it as herbal ‘tea’ for malaria prevention. Methods: 132 flower farm workers who met the study inclusion criteria and were not yet using A. annua infusion were randomized either to A. annua or placebo groups in the ratio of 1:1. Treatments were administered once a week under direct observation to participants. Malaria episodes were documented over a 9-month period while adverse effects were documented over 12 months. Results: A. annua herbal ‘tea’ significantly reduced the risk of suffering more than one episode of malaria in nine months by 55 % (12/67 vs 26/65, p = 0.005 No participant experienced any serious adverse effect although bitter taste was the most common side effect of the infusion. Conclusion: Artemisia annua infusion consumed once a week was effective in preventing multiple episodes of malaria in humans living in malaria endemic areas. However, its bitter taste and the risk of development of malaria parasite resistance to the artemisinin contained in it remain major challenges for its use in the mass control of malaria.
Carbapenem Resistance Profiles of Pathogenic Escherichia coli in Uganda
(2020) Ssekatawa, Kenneth; Byarugaba, Denis K.; Nakavuma, Jesca L.; Kato, Charles D.; Ejobi, Francis; Tweyongyere, Robert; Wampande, Eddie M.
Escherichia coli has been implicated as one of the main etiological agents of diarrhea, urinary tract infections, meningitis and septicemia worldwide. The ability to cause diseases is potentiated by presence of virulence factors. The virulence factors influence the capacity of E. coli to infect and colonize different body systems. Thus, pathogenic E. coli are grouped into DEC strains that are mainly clustered in phylogenetic group B1 and A; ExPEC belonging to A, B2 and D. Coexistence of virulence and beta-lactamase encoding genes complicates treatment outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed at presenting the CR profiles among pathogenic E. coli. Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study involving use of archived E. coli clinical isolates collected in 2019 from four Ugandan tertiary hospitals. The isolates were subjected to antibiotics sensitivity assays to determine phenotypic resistance. Four sets of multiplex PCR were performed to detect CR genes, DEC pathotypes virulent genes, ExPEC PAI and the E. coli phylogenetic groups. Results: Antibiotic susceptibility revealed that all the 421 E. coli isolates used were MDR as they exhibited 100% resistance to more than one of the first-line antibiotics. The study registered phenotypic and genotypic CR prevalence of 22.8% and 33.0% respectively. The most predominant gene was blaOXA-48 with genotypic frequency of 33.0%, then blaVIM(21.0%), blaIMP(16.5%), blaKPC(14.8%) and blaNDM(14.8%). Spearman’s correlation revealed that presence of CR genes was highly associated with phenotypic resistance. Furthermore, of 421 MDR E. coli isolates, 19.7% harboured DEC virulent genes, where EPEC recorded significantly higher prevalence (10.8%) followed by S-ETEC(3.1%), STEC(2.9%), EIEC (2.0%) and L-ETEC(2.0%). Genetic analysis characterized 46.1% of the isolates as ExPEC and only PAI IV536(33.0%) and PAI IICFT073(13.1%) were detected. Phylogenetic group B2 was predominantly detected (41.1%), followed by A(30.2%), B1(21.6%), and D(7.1%). Furthermore, 38.6% and 23.1% of the DEC and ExPEC respectively expressed phenotypic resistance. Conclusion: Our results exhibited significant level of CR carriage among the MDR DEC and ExPEC clinical isolates belonging to phylogenetic groups B1 and B2 respectively. Virulence and CR genetic factors are mainly located on mobile elements. Thus, constitutes a great threat to the healthcare system as it promotes horizontal gene transfer.
Green Strategy–Based Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Applications
(Frontiers in Nanotechnology, 2021) Ssekatawa, Kenneth; Byarugaba, Denis K.; Kato, Charles D.; Wampande, Eddie M.; Ejobi, Francis; Nakavuma, Jesca L.; Maaza, Malik; Sackey, Juliet; Nxumalo, Edward; Kirabira, John B.
Antibiotics have been the nucleus of chemotherapy since their discovery and introduction into the healthcare system in the 1940s. They are routinely used to treat bacterial infections and to prevent infections in patients with compromised immune systems and enhancing growth in livestock. However, resistance to last-resort antibiotics used in the treatment of multidrug-resistant infections has been reported worldwide. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate green synthesized nanomaterials such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as alternatives to antibiotics. UV-vis spectroscopy surface plasmon resonance peaks for AgNPs were obtained between 417 and 475 nm. An X-ray diffraction analysis generated four peaks for both Prunus africana extract (PAE) and Camellia sinensis extract (CSE) biosynthesized AgNPs positioned at 2θ angles of 38.2°, 44.4°, 64.5°, and 77.4° corresponding to crystal planes (111), (200), (220), and (311), respectively. A dynamic light-scattering analysis registered the mean zeta potential of +6.3mV and +0.9 mV for PAE and CSE biosynthesized nanoparticles, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra exhibited bands corresponding to different organic functional groups confirming the capping of AgNPs by PAE and CSE phytochemicals. Field emission scanning electron microscopy imaging showed that AgNPs were spherical with average size distribution ranging from 10 to 19 nm. Biosynthesized AgNPs exhibited maximum growth inhibitory zones of 21mm with minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of 125 and 250 μg/ml, respectively, against carbapenem-resistant bacteria
Knowledge, attitudes and practices of pork consumers in Uganda
(Global Food Security, 2019) Roesela, Kristina; Ejobi, Francis; Dione, Michel; Pezo, Danilo; Ouma, Emily; Kungu, Joseph; Clausen, Peter-Henning; Grace, Delia
Pig production is thriving in Uganda and the demand for pork is increasing, therefore offering potential for increased income from pig production and marketing. The consumers’ preferences determine and potentially drive this demand but are largely unknown in the context of Uganda. As part of a multi-disciplinary assessment of smallholder pig value chains we investigated these preferences in one of the four thematic subgroups with 292 smallholder pig farmers. In addition, 79 consumers in Kampala, the main pork market outlet in Uganda, were included. Using participatory methods and considering that pig keepers are also consumers, we describe drivers for and taboos around eating pork, the role of pork in peoples’ diets compared to other livestock-derived foods, important attributes when buying pork, the risk of pig feeds competing with human food as well as knowledge, attitudes and practices around pig zoonoses.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards cystic echinococcosis in livestock among selected pastoral and agro-pastoral communities in Uganda
(Tropical animal health and production, 2018) Omadang, Leonard; Chamai, Martin; Othieno, Emmanuel; Okwi, Andrew; Olaki Inangolet, Francis; Ejobi, Francis; Oba, Peter; Ocaido, Michael
A cross-sectional study was done from March 2013 to May 2014 to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards cystic echinococcosis (CE) or hydatidosis among selected pastoral and agro-pastoral communities in Uganda. A structured questionnaire was administered to 381 respondents. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to find the relationship between knowledge about CE and factors such as age, sex, and level of education across all regions. The odds ratio and confidence interval were used to determine the difference in responses across regions. It was shown that age above 36 years was significantly (p < 0.001) associated with awareness about CE in livestock. Likewise, uneducated (p < 0.0001) and agro-pastoralists (p = 0.01) were significantly less knowledgeable than the educated and pastoralists across all regions. The overall knowledge towards CE in livestock was low 17.8% (95% CI = 14.0–21.6). Dog ownership was high and they never dewormed their freely roaming dogs. Dogs shared water with livestock. In conclusion, knowledge about CE in livestock was low across all regions. Therefore, public health education and formulation of policies towards its control by the relevant stakeholders should be done. Also, the true prevalence of CE in livestock needs to be done so that the magnitude and its public health significance are elucidated
Mercury concentration in muscle, bellyfat and liver from Oreochromis niloticus and Lates niloticus consumed in Lake Albert fishing communities in Uganda
(Cogent Food & Agriculture, 2016) Tamale, Andrew; Ejobi, Francis; Muyanja, Charles; Naigaga, Irene; Nakavuma, Jessica; Ocaido, Micheal; Kato, Charles D.; Sente, Celsus
Without surveillance studies on mercury (Hg) levels in predominant fish species and parts eaten in a fishing community, the FAO/WHO guidelines might be surpassed, hence health risk. A monitoring study in a developing country with 29 Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia) and 34 Lates niloticus (Nile perch) from landing sites provided muscle, bellyfat and liver samples for Mercury detection using Inductive Couple Plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. The study shows that fish eaten in the fishing community are small with fewer risks from mercury. Tilapia accumulated more mercury in muscle and liver than Nile perch. Fish consumed has mercury levels higher than FAO/WHO guidelines, and the bellyfat of Nile perch bioaccumulated more mercury than Tilapia. Based on the above, it is clear that some fish species should not be eaten by the vulnerable groups due to levels of Hg found in the muscle and bellyfat. This research will serve as a base for future studies, sensitization campaigns and policy design on mercury uptake through fish in fishing communities of developing countries.
Nanotechnological Solutions For Controlling Transmission And Emergence Of Antimicrobial-Resistant Bacteria, Future Prospects, And Challenges: A Systematic Review
(Journal of Nanoparticle Research, 2020) Ssekatawa, Kenneth; Byarugaba, Dennis K.; Kato, Charles D.; Ejobi, Francis; Tweyongyere, Robert; Lubwama, Michael; Kirabira, John Baptist; Wampande, Eddie M.
Globally, a high prevalence of multi-drug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, mostly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, has been reported. Infections caused by such bacteria are expensive and hard to treat due to reduced efficient treatment alternatives. Centered on the current rate of antibiotics production and approvals, it is anticipated that by 2050 up to 10 million people could die annually due to MDR pathogens. To this effect, alternative strategies such as the use of nanotechnology to formulate nanobactericidal agents are being explored. This systematic review addresses the recent approaches, future prospects, and challenges of nanotechnological solutions for controlling transmission and emergence of antibiotic resistance. A comprehensive literature search of PubMed and BioMed Central databases from June 2018 to January 2019 was performed. The search keywords used were “use of nanotechnology to control antibiotic resistance” to extract articles published only in English encompassing all research papers regardless of the year of publication. PubMed and BioMed Central databases literature exploration generated 166 articles of which 49 full-text research articles met the inclusion guidelines. Of the included articles, 44.9%, 30.6%, and 24.5% reported the use of inorganic, hybrid, and organic nanoparticles, respectively, as bactericidal agents or carriers/enhancers of bactericidal agents. Owing to the ever-increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance to old and newly synthesized drugs, alternative approaches such as nanotechnology are highly commendable. This is supported by in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies assessed in this review as they reported high bactericide efficacies of organic, inorganic, and hybrid nanoparticles.
Perceptions about mercury and lead in fish consumed in Lake Albert fishing communities Uganda
(Cogent Food & Agriculture, 2016) Tamale, Andrew; Ejobi, Francis; Muyanja, Charles; Naigaga, Irene; Nakavuma, Jesca; Ocaido, Micheal; Katuhoire, Anne; Amulen, Deborah
Fish consumption is a lifestyle in fishing communities influenced by individual and communal perceptions. However, information about individual perceptions about fish consumption in the vulnerable fishing community in a developing country is lacking. Without this study, the benefits of fish consumption in a vulnerable community may not be realized. Data collection was executed using key informant interviews and survey structured questionnaires. The key informants include fisheries, community development, veterinary, community and environmental officers. The household heads were the respondents. The Qualitative data was organized and queried using QSR Nvivo 10 and quantitative data analyzed with SPSS version 22. The perceived benefits of eating fish are health, income, nutrition and manhood. The perceived risks are Stigma and ill health. The factors increasing fish consumption are heedless of fish consumption benefits (p = 0.041) and household size i.e. number of adults more than seven (p = 0.020). Those decreasing are methods of preparation of fish i.e. boiling and frying (p = 0.019 and p = 0.010) and oblivious about organizations dealing with fishing activities (p = 0.029). An awareness campaign is needed to demystify the health benefits and fallacies of fish consumption. The knowledge on individual perceptions associated with fish consumption will increase fish consumption but with fewer risks
Physiochemical properties and antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles green synthesized by Camellia sinensis and Prunus africana extracts
(2021) Ssekatawa, Kenneth; Byarugaba, Denis; Kato, Charles; Nakavuma, Jesca; Wampande, Eddie; Ejobi, Francis; Maaza, Malik; Sackey, Juliet; Kirabira, John; Nxumalo, Edward
Antibiotics have been the nucleus of chemotherapy since their discovery and introduction into the healthcare system in the 1940s. They are used routinely not only to treat bacterial infections but also to prevent infections in patients with compromised immune systems and enhancing growth in livestock. However, resistance to last-resort antibiotics used in the treatment of MDR infections has been reported worldwide. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate green synthesized nanomaterials such as AgNPs as alternatives to antibiotics. UV Vis Spectroscopy surface plasmon resonance peaks for AgNPs were obtained between 417 to 475nm. XRD analysis generated 4 peaks for both PAE and CSE biosynthesized AgNPs positioned at 2θ angles of 38.2˚, 44.4˚, 64.5˚, and 77.4˚ corresponding to crystal planes (111), (200), (220) and (311) respectively. DLS registered mean zeta potential of + 6.3mV and + 0.9mV for PAE and CSE biosynthesized nanoparticles respectively. FTIR spectra exhibited bands corresponding to different organic functional groups confirming capping of AgNPs by PAE and CSE phytochemicals. FESEM imaging showed that AgNPs were spherical with average size distribution ranging from 10 to 19nm. Biosynthesized AgNPs exhibited maximum growth inhibitory zones of 21mm with MIC and MBC of 125μg/ml and 250μg/ml respectively against carbapenem resistant bacteria.
Prevalence and risk factors of Echinococcus granulosus infection in dogs in Moroto and Bukedea districts in Uganda
(Tropical animal health and production, 2016) Oba, Peter; Ejobi, Francis; Omadang, Leonard; Chamai, Martin; Okwi, Andrew Livex; Othieno, Emmanuel; Inangolet, Francis Olaki; Ocaido, Michael
A cross sectional study was conducted in Moroto and Bukedea districts of Uganda from May to September 2013 to determine the prevalence and risk factors of Echinococcus granulosus infection in dogs. Fresh dog faecal samples were collected, preserved in 70 % ethanol, and later screened for presence of taeniid eggs using zinc chloride floatation method. Positive samples were confirmed by a copro-PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for E. granulosus using NADH dehydrogenase sub-unit 1 gene (NADH1) as a target molecular marker. Structured questionnaires and focus group discussions were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data for risk factor identification. Study sub-counties were selected by simple random sampling. Overall apparent prevalence of taeniid infection in dogs of 14.9 % (39/261, confidence interval 10.6–19.2) in both districts was recorded using the faecal floatation test. The sensitivity of the faecal floatation test was found to be 78 % (25/32), while the specificity was 93 % (215/229). Copro-PCR results revealed a true prevalence of 14.4 % (9.91–19.0, 95 % CI) in dogs in Moroto district and 7.4 % (2.14–12.60, 95 % CI) in Bukedea district. The overall true prevalence of cystic echinococcosis (CE) was 12.2 % (8.70–15.76, 95 % CI) in both districts. The major risk factors identified using logistic regression were uncontrolled access of dogs to animal slaughter facilities, higher cattle herd sizes and lack of knowledge about the disease. It was recommended that restricting dog access to infected tissues and public health education about epidemiology of CE should be done.
Prevalence of cystic echinococcosis among livestock in pastoral and agro-pastoral areas in Uganda
(Parasitology, 2024) Omadang, Leonard; Chamai, Martin; Ejobi, Francis; Erume, Joseph; Oba, Peter; Ocaido, Michael
A cross sectional study was conducted in Moroto and Bukedea districts of Uganda from May to September 2013 to determine the prevalence and risk factors of Echinococcus granulosus infection in dogs. Fresh dog faecal samples were collected, preserved in 70 % ethanol, and later screened for presence of taeniid eggs using zinc chloride floatation method. Positive samples were confirmed by a copro-PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for E. granulosus using NADH dehydrogenase sub-unit 1 gene (NADH1) as a target molecular marker. Structured questionnaires and focus group discussions were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data for risk factor identification. Study sub-counties were selected by simple random sampling. Overall apparent prevalence of taeniid infection in dogs of 14.9 % (39/261, confidence interval 10.6–19.2) in both districts was recorded using the faecal floatation test. The sensitivity of the faecal floatation test was found to be 78 % (25/32), while the specificity was 93 % (215/229). Copro-PCR results revealed a true prevalence of 14.4 % (9.91–19.0, 95 % CI) in dogs in Moroto district and 7.4 % (2.14–12.60, 95 % CI) in Bukedea district. The overall true prevalence of cystic echinococcosis (CE) was 12.2 % (8.70–15.76, 95 % CI) in both districts. The major risk factors identified using logistic regression were uncontrolled access of dogs to animal slaughter facilities, higher cattle herd sizes and lack of knowledge about the disease. It was recommended that restricting dog access to infected tissues and public health education about epidemiology of CE should be done.
Prevalence of Cystic Echinococcosis in Selected Pastoral and Agro-Pastoral Districts of Uganda
(Annals of Clinical Cytology and Pathology, 2016) Othieno, Emmanuel; Okwi, Andrew; Mupere, Ezekiel; Bimenya, Gabriel; Zeyhle, Eberhard; Oba, Peter; Chamai, Martin; Omadang, Leonard; Inangolet, Francis O.; Siefert, Ludwing; Ejobi, Francis; Ocaido, Michael
A cross sectional ultrasound screening survey for human cystic echinococcosis (CE) was undertaken in the pastoral dist ricts of Moroto, Napak, Nakapiripirit and Amudat in Karamoja sub-region; and agro-pastoral communities of Teso region, in the districts of Kumi and Bukedea. Other areas of the survey included: Nakasongola in Central region and Kasese district in the Western region of Uganda. A total of 3,636 participants were screened and 67 cases (1.84%) had CE. The organ most affected was the liver 61.2% (41/67), followed by the kidney 17.9% (12/67), spleen 10.44% (7/67), omentum 8.95% 6/67) and lungs 1.5% (1/67). All districts screened had positive cases with the highest prevalence occurring in Napak (3.9%) and the lowest in Nakapiripirit (0.45%). The prevalence of CE (0.5±0.3%) in South Karamoja (Amudat and Nakapiripirit) was significantly lower (P<0.001, χ2= 18.98) than in Central Karamoja (Napak and Moroto, 3.32±1.3%). The prevalence of CE in Teso region was found to be 1.21±0.8%, Kasese 2.15±1.2 % and Nakasongola 2.7±1.3%. The prevalence in south Karamoja was lowest. Overall, there was no significant difference (P<0.05; χ2= 0.12) in prevalence between males (1.7%) and females (1.9%). However, in Karamoja females (2.2% CI: 0.8-3.6) were more likely to be infected (χ2= 16; P<0.05) with CE than males (0.9% CI: 0.1-1.7). Sixty four percent (n=43) of the cysts detected were viable.
Prevalence of pathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae based on PCR capsular typing harbouring carbapenemases encoding genes in Uganda tertiary hospitals
(Antimicrobial Resistance & Infection Control, 2021) Ssekatawa, Kenneth; Byarugaba, Denis K.; Nakavuma, Jesca L.; Kato, Charles D.; Ejobi, Francis; Tweyongyere, Robert; Wampande, Eddie M.
Background: Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen that has been implicated as one of commonest cause of hospital and community acquired infections. The K. pneumoniae infections have considerably contributed to morbidity and mortality in patients with protracted ailments. The capacity of K. pneumoniae to cause diseases depends on the presence of an array virulence factors. Coexistence and expression of virulence factors and genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance complicates treatment outcomes. Thus, emergence of pathogenic MDR K. pneumoniae poses a great threat to the healthcare system. However, the carriage of antibiotic resistance among pathogenic K. pneumoniae is yet to be investigated in Uganda. We sought to investigate the carbapenem resistance profiles and pathogenic potential based on capsular serotypes of K. pneumoniae clinical isolates. Methods: This was a cross sectional study involving use of archived Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates collected between January and December, 2019 at four tertiary hospitals in Uganda. All isolates were subject to antimicrobial susceptibility assays to determine phenotypic antibiotic resistance, pentaplex PCR to detect carbapenemases encoding genes and heptaplex PCR to identify capsular serotypes K1, K2, K3, K5, K20, K54 and K57. Results: The study found an overall phenotypic carbapenem resistance of 23.3% (53/227) and significantly higher genotypic resistance prevalence of 43.1% (98/227). Over all, the most prevalent gene was blaOXA-48-like (36.4%), followed by blaIMP-type (19.4%), blaVIM-type (17.1%), blaKPC-type (14.0%) and blaNDM-type (13.2%). blaVIM-type and blaOXA-48-like conferred phenotypic resistance in all isolates and 38.3% of isolates that harbored them respectively. Capsular multiplex PCR revealed that 46.7% (106/227) isolates were pathogenic and the predominantly prevalent pathotype was K5 (18.5%) followed by K20 (15.1%), K3 (7.1%), K2 (3.1%) and K1 (2.2%). Of the 106 capsular serotypes, 37 expressed phenotypic resistance; thus, 37 of the 53 carbapenem resistant K. pneumoniae were pathogenic. Conclusion: The high prevalence of virulent and antibiotic resistant K. pneumoniae among clinical isolates obtained from the four tertiary hospital as revealed by this study pose a great threat to healthcare. Our findings underline the epidemiological and public health risks and implications of this pathogen.
A review of phage mediated antibacterial applications
(Alexandria Journal of Medicine, 2021) Ssekatawa, Kenneth; Byarugaba, Denis K.; Kato, Charles D.; Wampande, Eddie M.; Ejobi, Francis; Tweyongyere, Robert; Nakavuma, Jesca L.
For over a decade, resistance to newly synthesized antibiotics has been observed worldwide. The challenge of antibiotic resistance has led to several pharmaceutical companies to abandon the synthesis of new drugs in fear of bacteria developing resistance in a short period hence limiting initial investment return. To this effect, alternative approaches such as the use of bacteriophages to treat bacterial infections are being explored. This review explores the recent advances in phage-mediated antibacterial applications and their limitations. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Lib Hub and Google Scholar databases from January 2019 to November 2019. The search key words used were the application of bacteriophages to inhibit bacterial growth and human phage therapy to extract full-text research articles and proceedings from International Conferences published only in English. Results: The search generated 709 articles of which 95 full-text research articles fulfilled the inclusion guidelines. Transmission Electron Microscopy morphological characterization conducted in 23 studies registered Myoviruses, Siphoviruses, Podoviruses, and Cytoviruses phage families while molecular characterization revealed that some phages were not safe to use as they harbored undesirable genes. All in vivo phage therapy studies in humans and model animals against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infection provided 100% protection. Ex vivo and in vitro phage therapy experiments exhibited overwhelming results as they registered high efficacies of up to 100% against MDR clinical isolates. Phage-mediated bio-preservation of foods and beverages and bio-sanitization of surfaces were highly successful with bacterial growth suppression of up to 100%. Phage endolysins revealed efficacies statistically comparable to those of phages and restored normal ethanol production by completely eradicating lactic acid bacteria in ethanol fermenters. Furthermore, the average multiplicity of infection was highest in ex vivo phage therapy (557,291.8) followed by in vivo (155,612.4) and in vitro (434.5).
Risk estimates for children and pregnant women exposed to mercury-contaminated Oreochromis niloticus and Lates niloticus in Lake Albert Uganda
(Cogent Food & Agriculture, 2016) Tamale, Andrew; Ejobi, Francis; Muyanja, Charles; Naigaga, Irene; Nakavuma, Jesca; Ocaido, Micheal; Kato, Drago; Sente, Celsus; Amulen, Deborah; Rumbeiha, Wilson
Exposure to mercury contaminated fish predisposes populations particularly children and pregnant women to various health hazards including neurotoxicity, reproductive abnormalities and cognitive disorders. Earlier studies in the Lake Albert community have demonstrated the presence of mercury in Nile tilapia and Nile perch. However, the risk estimates for vulnerable groups such as Children and pregnant women is not well documented. Secondary data-set from previous studies were employed comprising family household size and fish consumption history, fish consumption quantity and frequency and mercury levels in fish species in comparison with FAO/WHO guidelines. Data collected was used to establish the hazard quotients (HQs) for the vulnerable group and the general population. A risk model was developed using iRISK to demonstrate the Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) for eating different parts of the fish (muscle and bellyfat). HQ values (HQ = 2.05) above one for the vulnerable group were realized especially with Nile perch muscle. The highest DALYs (0.111) was obtained with tilapia muscle consumption. The study outcome reveals that vulnerable populations are at risk of non-carcinogenic complications. Therefore, there is a need for sensitization of the community especially the vulnerable groups about risks associated with consuming mercury-contaminated fish.
Risk factors associated with cystic echinococcosis in humans in selected pastoral and agro-pastoral areas of Uganda
(Int J One Health, 2017) Othieno, Emmanuel; Okwi, Andrew Livex; Mupere, Ezekiel; Zeyhle, Eberhard; Oba, Peter; Chamai, Martin; Omadang, Leonard; Olaki Inangolet, Francis; Siefert, Ludwing; Ejobi, Francis; Ocaido, Michael
It was to determine the risk factors responsible of occurrence of cystic echinococcosis (CE) of humans in the pastoral and agro-pastoral (PAP) in Uganda. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in districts: Moroto, Napak, Nakapiripirit and Amudat in Karamoja region; in agro-pastoral communities of Teso region, in the districts of Kumi and Bukedea; Nakasongola district in Central region and in Kasese district in the Western region. People were subjected to voluntary ultrasound screening for CE. Those found positive to CE on ultrasound screening were interviewed using a special designed form to find out the probable predisposing factors for acquisition of CE infection. Predisposing factors considered were location, age, sex, dog ownership, occupation, water source, and religion. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify key risk factors. Results: In Karamoja region, being female, age beyond 40 years and open spring water sources were the risk factors. While for Nakasongola age beyond 40 years was a risk factor. In Kasese dog ownership, age >60 years and being a Muslim were risk factors. In Teso region dog ownership and age >60 years were the risk factors. Conclusion: Being a pastoralist, a female, increasing age beyond 40 years, open spring water sources, dog ownership and being a Muslim were the risk factors for CE in PAP areas in Uganda.
Risk factors, perceptions and practices associated with Taenia solium cysticercosis and its control in the smallholder pig production systems in Uganda: a cross-sectional survey
(BMC infectious diseases, 2017) Kungu, Joseph M.; Dione, Michel M.; Ejobi, Francis; Ocaido, Michael; Grace, Delia
Prevalence studies report Taenia solium cysticercosis in pig and human populations in Uganda. However, the factors influencing occurrence in smallholder pig production systems are not well documented and little is known about farmers’ perceptions of T. solium cysticercosis or farmer practices that could reduce transmission. Methods: To determine the risk factors, perceptions and practices regarding T. solium cysticercosis, a household survey using a semi-structured questionnaire was conducted in 1185 households in the rural and urban pig production systems in Masaka, Mukono and Kamuli Districts. Logistic regression was used to measure associations of risk factors with infection. Performance scores were calculated to summarise perceptions and practices of farmers regarding taeniosis, human cysticercosis and porcine cysticercosis as well as farmer behavior related to control or breaking transmission. Results: Pig breed type, farmers’ knowledge about transmission, sources of water used, and pig keeping homes where family members were unable to use the latrine were all significantly associated with T. solium cysticercosis in pigs. Performance scores indicated that farmers were more aware of taeniosis (63.0%; 95% Confidence Interval 60.0-65.8) than human or porcine cysticercosis; only three farmers (0.3%, 95% CI = 0.1–0.8) had knowledge on all three conditions. More farmers reported that they dewormed pigs (94.1%) than reported deworming themselves and their family members (62.0%). Albendazole was the most commonly used drug for deworming both pigs and humans (85.0 and 81.5% respectively). Just over half (54.6%) of the farmers interviewed had clean water near the latrines for washing hands. Of these, only 41.9% used water with soap to wash hands after latrine use. Conclusion: Factors that significantly influenced occurrence of T. solium cysticercosis in pigs were identified. Farmers had some knowledge about the disease but did not link taeniosis, human cysticercosis, and porcine cysticercosis. Therefore, there is need to employ strategies that raise awareness and interrupt transmission.
Sero-prevalence of Taenia Solium cysticercosis in rural and urbansmallholder pig production settings in Uganda
(Acta tropica, 2017) Kungu, Joseph M.; Dione, Michel M.; Ejobi, Francis; Harrison, Leslie J.S.; Poole, Jane; Pezo, Danilo; Grace, Delia
The pork tapeworm, Taenia solium, is prevalent in Uganda although the prevalence has not been deter-mined in all areas of the country. A cross-sectional study, to determine the sero-prevalence of the parasitein pigs kept under rural and urban production settings, was carried out in three Ugandan districts, Masaka, Mukono and Kamuli. Serum samples from 1185 pigs were tested for the presence of T. solium cysticer-cosis antigen using the HP10 antigen-ELISA (Ag-ELISA) and the ApDia Ag-ELISA assays. Using parallel interpretation of the two tests showed lower levels of observed prevalence of T. solium in rural pro-duction settings (10.8%) compared to urban (17.1%). Additionally, Maximum Likelihood Estimation forevaluating assays in the absence of a gold standard, using TAGS on the R platform, estimated the true sero-prevalence to be lower in rural production setting, 0.0% [0.0–3.2%; 95% confidence interval (CI)] thanin urban production setting, 12.3% (4.2–77.5% CI). When the sensitivity/specificity (Se/Sp) of the assays were estimated, assuming conditional independence of the tests, HP10 Ag-ELISA was more sensitive and specific [(Se = 53.9%; 10.1–100% CI), (Sp = 97.0%; 95.9-100% CI)] than the ApDia assay [(Se = 20.2%;1.5–47.7% CI), (Sp = 92.2%; 90.5–93.9% CI)]. Subject to parasitological verification, these results indicate there may be a need to implement appropriate control measures for T. solium in the study areas.
Serological and molecular investigation for brucellosis in swine in selected districts of Uganda
(Tropical Animal Health and Production, 2016) Erume, Joseph; Roesel, Kristina; Dione, Michel M.; Ejobi, Francis; Mboowa, Gerald; Kungu, Joseph M.; Akol, Joyce; Pezo, Danilo; El-Adawy, Hosny; Melzer, Falk; Elschner, Mandy; Neubauer, Heinrich; Grace, Delia
Brucellosis is a notifiable zoonotic disease affecting livestock, humans, and wildlife in Uganda. Pigs can be infected with human pathogenic Brucella suis biovars 1 and 3 and can be a significant source of brucellosis for humans. Uganda has a rapidly growing pig population, and the pork consumption per capita is the highest in East Africa. The objective of this work was to determine the seroprevalence of brucellosis in Ugandan pigs. A cross-sectional serosurvey of pigs was conducted in three of the major pig-keeping districts in Uganda (Masaka (n= 381 samples), Mukono (n = 398), and Kamuli (n = 414)). In addition, pigs originating from these districts were sampled in the major pig abattoir in Kampala (n =472). In total, 1665 serum samples were investigated by serological and molecular tests. Only three putative brucellosis-positive samples were detected serologically using indirect ELISA. These sera were found negative for Brucella antibodies by CFT; however, two had antibodies against Yersinia enterocolitica as determined by SAT. Presence of antibodies against Yersiniae was confirmed by Y. enterocolitica antibody-specific ELISA. The two Yersiniae ELISA-positive samples were brucellosis negative using real-time PCR. We tested additional 142 sera from the 1665 samples with real-time PCR. All tested negative. Under this type of production system, we expect a maximum B. suis prevalence of less than 1 % at 95 % confidence level, and therefore, the risk of acquiring brucellosis from the pigs or their products is negligible. However, pigs may harbor the zoonotic Y. enterocolitica. This is the first study to investigate the occurrence of brucellosis in pigs in Uganda and the first study to report Y. enterocolitica antibodies in swine in Uganda.
Seroprevalence of brucellosis and risk factors associated with its seropositivity in cattle, goats and humans in Iganga District, Uganda
(The Pan African Medical Journal, 2019) Nguna, Joyce; Dione, Michel; Apamaku, Micheal; Majalija, Samuel; Rwabita Mugizi, Denis; Odoch, Terence; Kato, Charles Drago; Tumwine, Gabriel; Kabaasa, John David; Curtis, Kellie; Graham, Michael; Ejobi, Francis; Graham, Thomas
The burden of brucellosis among smallholder farmers is poorly-documented in Uganda. The disease burden is likely to be high, given the high levels of endemicity, lots of exposures and due to lack of control measures. In order to designate appropriate control measures, the magnitude and risk factors for brucellosis need to be known. We established the burden of and risk factors for Brucella seropositivity in cattle, goats, and humans in Iganga district, eastern Uganda. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted in in Kigulamo Parish, Iganga District. We enrolled 226 households and administered a structured questionnaire to heads of households to capture data on socio-demographic characteristics, human brucellosis-related risk factors, and livestock farming practices. Human, cattle, and goat blood samples were collected and tested serologically using commercial indirect-ELISA kits manufactured by USDA, USA. Results: of 451 human blood samples, 20 (4.4%) were positive. Among 345 cattle blood samples, 4 (1.2%) were positive and among 351 goat blood samples, one (0.3%) was positive. Persons who reported consuming locally-made dairy products had 4 times higher odds of Brucella seropositivity (OR = 4.0, CI = 1.14-14.03, p = 0.031) than those who did not. None of the risk factors we asked about were significantly associated with seropositivity in cattle and goats. Conclusion: the seroprevalence of brucellosis in humans in smallholder households in Kigulamo was relatively low and associated with consumption of locally made dairy products. No ri sk factors were significantly associated with seropositivity in livestock, likely due to the small number of seropositive animals. We recommend a One Health approach to control brucellosis simultaneously in animals and humans needed to sustainably reduce the burden of brucellosis in Uganda and beyond.

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