Browsing by Author "Kankya, Clovice"
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Item African swine fever among slaughter pigs in Mubende district, Uganda(Tropical animal health and production, 2012) Muwonge, Adrian; Munang’andu, Hetron M.; Kankya, Clovice; Biffa, Demelash; Oura, Chris; Skjerve, Eystein; Oloya, JamesOwing to frequent reports of suspected outbreaks and the presence of reservoir hosts and vectors (warthogs, bush pigs and O. moubata ticks), African swine fever (ASF) is believed to be an endemic disease in Uganda. There have, however, been very few studies carried out to confirm its existence in Uganda. This study was carried out to describe the prevalence of ASF based on pathologic lesions and analysis of serum samples from slaughtered pigs during a suspected outbreak in the Mubende district of Uganda. The study was based on visits to 22 slaughterhouses where individual pigs were randomly selected for a detailed antemortem and post-mortem inspections. Sera were also collected for laboratory analysis. A total of 997 pigs (53.7% male and 46.3% female) were examined for lesions suggestive of ASF and sero-positivity of sera for ASF antibodies. The sera were tested using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and positive samples were further confirmed with an immunoblot assay. The results showed that 3.8% (38/997) of the pigs examined had clinical signs and postmortem lesions suggestive of ASF. Two of 997 (0.2%) sera analysed were positive for ASF antibodies. Of the subcounties investigated, Bagezza (12%) and Kiyuni (11%) had the highest prevalence of lesions suggestive of ASF based on ante- and post-mortem examination results, while Mubende town council (1.7%) had the lowest. This study found a low number of pigs (3.8%) with lesions suggestive of ASF at slaughter and an even lower number of pigs (0.2%) that were seropositive at slaughter, however a significantly higher number of pigs were slaughtered during the outbreak as a strategy for farmers to avoid losses associated with mortality.Item Bovine leptospirosis in abattoirs in Uganda: molecular detection and risk of exposure among workers(Zoonoses and Public Health, 2019) Alinaitwe, Lordrick; Kankya, Clovice; Allan, Kathryn J.; Rodriguez-Campos, Sabrina; Torgerson, Paul; Dreyfus, AnouLeptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease reported worldwide. In Uganda, seropositivity has been reported in both humans and domesticated animals, including cattle. However, it remains unknown whether cattle are shedding leptospires and thus acting as potential source for human leptospirosis. We conducted this cross-sectional study in two cattle abattoirs in Kampala, Uganda between June and July 2017. Kidney and urine samples from 500 cattle sourced from across the country were analyzed by real-time PCR to establish the prevalence of Leptospira positive cattle and risk of exposure to abattoir workers. The species of infecting Leptospira was determined by amplification of secY gene and compared to reference sequences published in GenBank. Of 500 cattle tested, (7.2%) had Leptospira DNA in their kidneys (carriers), (5.8%) in their urine (shedders); with an overall prevalence (kidney and/or urine) of 8.8%. Leptospira borgpetersenii 2 was confirmed as the infecting species in three cattle and Leptospira kirschneri in one animal. Male vs female cattle (OR= 3, P–value 0.003), exotic vs local breeds (OR= 21.3, P–value 0.002) or cattle from Western Uganda (OR= 4.4, P–value 0.001) and from regions across the border 28 (OR= 3.3, P–value 0.032) vs from the central region were more likely to be Leptospira positive. The daily risk of exposure of abattoir workers to ≥1 (kidney and/or urine) positive carcass ranged from 27% (95% credibility interval 18.6 – 52.3) to 100% (95% CI 91.0 – 100.0), with halal butchers and pluck inspectors being at highest risk. In conclusion, cattle slaughtered at abattoirs in Uganda carry and shed pathogenic Leptospira species; and this may pose occupation-related risk of exposure among workers in these abattoirs, with workers who handle larger numbers of animals being at higher risk.Item Cattle owners' awareness of bovine tuberculosis in high and low prevalence settings of the wildlife-livestock interface areas in Zambia(BMC Veterinary Research, 2010) Munyeme, Musso; Muma, John B.; Munang'andu, Hetron M.; Kankya, Clovice; Skjerve, Eystein; Tryland, MortenAwareness of bovine tuberculosis (BTB) by cattle owners is of extreme importance to policy makers when considering mitigation. However, to our knowledge, little is known on cattle owners' awareness of BTB in Zambia. Similarly, such knowledge is uncommon within and outside Africa. The current study investigates the epidemiological characteristics of BTB in Zambian cattle in relation to awareness by cattle owners in high and low cattle BTB prevalence settings. A cross sectional study was designed and data was gathered based on 106 cattle owners and cattle herds; subjected to an interviewer-administered questionnaire and comparative intradermal tuberculin test using a cut-off for positivity of 4 mm, respectively. Results: Reported levels of cattle and wildlife contact by respondents was at 40%, 58.2% and 1.8%, were relatively proportional to herd level prevalence of cattle BTB at 64.8%, 58.1% and 5.9% in Blue lagoon, Lochinvar and Kazungula respectively. Although 42/106 (39.6%) of cattle owners had heard of BTB, only 3 (7%) had an idea on how the disease was spread. Cattle contact with wildlife was associated with high levels of awareness by cattle owners (χ2 = 43.5, df = 2, P < 0.001). Awareness of BTB in low prevalence settings was lower compared to high prevalence settings. Conclusions: Our study has revealed low levels of awareness among cattle owners on BTB. These results could be useful for policy makers when planning mitigation measures to consider awareness levels by cattle owners for effective implementation. Such information is useful for determining sensitisation programs for cattle owners before mitigation. These results further provide useful insights that disease control is a multi-factorial process with cattle owners as an integral part that can support policy implementation.Item Cross-Sectional Serological Survey for Leptospira spp. in Beef and Dairy Cattle in Two Districts in Uganda(International journal of environmental research and public health, 2017) Dreyfus, Anou; Odoch, Terence; Alinaitwe, Lordrick; Rodriguez-Campos, Sabrina; Tsegay, Amanuel; Jaquier, Valentine; Kankya, CloviceSeroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in cattle is unknown in Uganda. The aim of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence of L. interrogans Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona, L. kirschneri Butembo, Grippotyphosa, L. borgpetersenii Nigeria, Hardjo, Wolfii, and Kenya and an overall seroprevalence in cattle from Kole and Mbale districts. Two hundred-seventy five bovine sera from 130 small holder farms from Kole (n = 159) and Mbale (n = 116), collected between January and July 2015, were tested for antibodies against eight Leptospira strains by Microscopic Agglutination Test. A titer of 100 was considered seropositive, indicating past exposure. Overall, the seroprevalence was 19.27% (95% CI 14.9–24.5%). Pomona seroprevalence was highest with 9.45% (6.4–13.7%), followed by Kenya 5.09% (2.9–8.6%), Nigeria 4.00% (2.1–7.2%),Wolfii 3.27% (1.6–6.3%), Butembo 1.86% (0.7–4.4%), Hardjo 1.45% (0.5–3.9%), and Icterohaemorragiae and Grippotyphosa with less than 1% positive. Seroprevalence did not differ between districts and gender (p 0.05). Seven animals had titers 400. Cross-reactions or exposure to 1 serovar was measured in 43% of serum samples. Seroprevalence of 19% implies exposure of cattle to leptospires.Item Diversity and Antimicrobial Resistance Genotypes in Non-Typhoidal Salmonella Isolates from Poultry Farms in Uganda(International journal of environmental research and public health, 2018) Odoch, Terence; Sekse, Camilla; L’Abee-Lund, Trine M.; Hansen, Helge Christoffer Høgberg; Kankya, Clovice; Wasteson, YngvildNon-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) are foodborne pathogens of global public health significance. The aim of this study was to subtype a collection of 85 NTS originating from poultry farms in Uganda, and to evaluate a subgroup of phenotypically resistant isolates for common antimicrobial resistance genes and associated integrons. All isolates were subtyped by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Phenotypically resistant isolates (n = 54) were screened by PCR for the most relevant AMR genes corresponding to their phenotypic resistance pattern, and all 54 isolates were screened by PCR for the presence of integron class 1 and 2 encoding genes. These genes are known to commonly encode resistance to ampicillin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, trimethoprim, sulfonamide and chloramphenicol. PFGE revealed 15 pulsotypes representing 11 serotypes from 75 isolates, as 10 were non-typable. Thirty one (57.4%) of the 54 resistant isolates carried at least one of the seven genes (blaTEM-1, cmlA, tetA, qnrS, sul1, dhfrI, dhfrVII) identified by PCR and six (11%) carried class 1 integrons. This study has shown that a diversity of NTS-clones are present in Ugandan poultry farm settings, while at the same time similar NTS-clones occur in different farms and areas. The presence of resistance genes to important antimicrobials used in human and veterinary medicine has been demonstrated, hence the need to strengthen strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance at all levels.Item The Epidemiology of Zoonotic Brucellosis in Bahr el Ghazal Region of South Sudan(Frontiers in Public Health, 2019) Madut, Nuol Aywel; Muleme, James; Kankya, Clovice; Nasinyama, George William; Bwalya Muma, John; Godfroid, Jacques; Jubara, Ambrose Samuel; Muwonge, AdrianIn this study, we focused on three zoonotic brucellosis risk groups; abattoir workers, febrile cases at Wau hospital and cattle herders, in Bahr el Ghazal region, South Sudan. Competitive c-ELISA was used to detect anti-Brucella antibodies in 725 individuals between December 2015 andMay 2016. In addition, questionnairemetadata, focus group discussions and key informant interviews were used to characterize the epidemiology of zoonotic brucellosis in this region. Results: Overall, we estimate 27.2%(95%CI = 23.9–30.6) brucellosis sero-prevalence; 32.1% (95% CI = 26.2–38.4), 23.0% (95% CI = 19.1–27.4) and 34.6% (95% CI = 24.4–46.3) among abattoir workers, febrile cases, and herders, respectively. Marital status (Single, OR= 0.58, 95%CI: 0.36–0.91, P =0.02) and ethnicity (Kerash OR = 6.01, 95%CI: 1.97–21.10, P = 0.003 and Balanda, OR = 3.78, 95%CI: 1.42–12.02, P = 0.01) were associated with brucellosis. While gender and ethnicity were important factors for general awareness of zoonotic diseases. Highly ranked occupations at risk included veterinarian, butchers and milk handlers. We also identified covariate patterns for clinical diagnostics and public health interventions. Conclusion: We report the highest sero-prevalence of zoonotic brucellosis in three risk groups in the East African region. All this is not only occurring in a population with limited awareness that brucellosis is a zoonotic disease but also where one in nine health workers tested was sero-positive. We identified social demographic associations with brucellosis, however, the qualitative analysis suggests these are more complex and nuanced. Therefore, future studies could benefit from the use of the mixed methods approach to add extensiveness and depth to our understanding of zoonotic disease drivers, in order to implement mitigating measures such as cattle vaccination.Item Evaluation of Bacterial Contamination of Beef Carcasses in Namwala and Lusaka Districts, Zambia(Journal of Agricultural and Biomedical Sciences, 2021) Mwasinga, Wizaso; Muma, John B.; Kankya, Clovice; Mumba, Chisoni; Munyeme, MussoAbattoirs have been purported to be ideal areas were possible microbial contamination of meat products is likely to occur. A total of 314 food of animal origin, mainly, beef, has been identified as a source of dietary protein for humans albeit it being a source of food-borne diseases including zoonoses. This study was carried out to evaluate bacterial contamination and the risk factors associated with contamination of beef carcasses during processing. Methods: A total of four abattoirs were sampled within three months with one in Namwala and three in Lusaka districts. 314 beef carcass surface swabs were obtained from the neck region by swabbing the carcasses, immediately after evisceration and after washing. Results: The results of mean total viable counts (TVC) of carcass contamination were enumerated as the mean log from 4.7 Log10 cfu/cm2 in an abattoir where Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) practiced to 5.8 Log10 cfu/cm2 in abattoirs without HACCP. Bivariate analysis showed a significant difference in carcass contamination when town abattoirs (Lusaka) were compared with rural ones (Namwala); χ2 = 43.87, P < 0.0001. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified poor hygiene practices, the absence of antemortem inspection, and lack of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) implementation as significant factors associated with carcass contamination. Conclusion: The microbial load of the fresh beef carcasses in Namwala district was higher than that in Lusaka district as determined by the Total Viable Count. This is an indicator that beef is being produced under poor abattoir hygiene conditions. Therefore, beef carcasses with high bacterial loads are potential sources of foodborne pathogens leading to foodborne disease, hence, there is need for advocating for good hygiene practices in the abattoirs.Item Factors associated with pastoral community knowledge and occurrence of mycobacterial infections in Human-Animal Interface areas of Nakasongola and Mubende districts, Uganda(BMC Public Health, 2010) Kankya, Clovice; Muwonge, Adrian; Olet, Susan; Munyeme, Musso; Biffa, Demelash; Opuda-Asibo, John; Skjerve, Eystein; Oloya, JamesNontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are emerging opportunistic pathogens whose role in human and animal disease is increasingly being recognized. Major concerns are their role as opportunistic pathogens in HIV/AIDS infections. The role of open natural water sources as source and livestock/wildlife as reservoirs of infections to man are well documented. This presents a health challenge to the pastoral systems in Africa that rely mostly on open natural water sources to meet livestock and human needs. Recent study in the pastoral areas of Uganda showed infections with same genotypes of NTM in pastoralists and their livestock. The aim of this study was to determine the environmental, animal husbandry and socio-demographic factors associated with occurrence and the pastoral community knowledge of mycobacterial infections at the human-environment-livestock/wildlife interface (HELI) areas in pastoral ecosystems of Uganda. Methods: Two hundred and fifty three (253) individuals were subjected to a questionnaire survey across the study districts of Nakasongola and Mubende. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results: Humans sharing of the water sources with wild animals from the forest compared to savannah ecosystem (OR = 3.3), the tribe of herding pastoral community (OR = 7.9), number of rooms present in household (3-5 vs. 1-2 rooms) (OR = 3.3) were the socio-demographic factors that influenced the level of knowledge on mycobacterial infections among the pastoral communities. Tribe (OR = 6.4), use of spring vs. stream water for domestic use (OR = 4.5), presence of sediments in household water receptacle (OR = 2.32), non separation of water containers for drinking and domestic use (OR = 2.46), sharing of drinking water sources with wild animals (OR = 2.1), duration of involvement of >5 yrs in cattle keeping (OR = 3.7) and distance of household to animal night shelters (>20 meters) (OR = 3.8) were significant socio-demographic factors associated with the risk of occurrence of mycobacterioses among the pastoral communities in Uganda. Conclusion: The socio-demographic, environmental and household related factors influence the risk of occurrence as well as pastoralists’ knowledge of mycobacterial infections in the pastoral households at the humanenvironment- livestock/wildlife pastoral interface areas of Uganda.Item A Framework for integrating Qualitative and Quantitative Data in Knowledge, attitude, and Practice studies: a case study of Pesticide Usage in eastern Uganda(Frontiers in Public Health, 2017) Muleme, James; Kankya, Clovice; Ssempebwa, John C.; Mazeri, Stella; Muwonge, AdrianKnowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) studies guide the implementation of public health interventions (PHIs), and they are important tools for political persuasion. The design and implementation of PHIs assumes a linear KAP relationship, i.e., an awareness campaign results in the desirable societal behavioral change. However, there is no robust framework for testing this relationship before and after PHIs. Here, we use qualitative and quantitative data on pesticide usage to test this linear relationship, identify associated context specific factors as well as assemble a framework that could be used to guide and evaluate PHIs. We used data from a cross-sectional mixed methods study on pesticide usage. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire from 167 households representing 1,002 individuals. Qualitative data were collected from key informants and focus group discussions. Quantitative and qualitative data analysis was done in R 3.2.0 as well as qualitative thematic analysis, respectively. Our framework shows that a KAP linear relationship only existed for households with a low knowledge score, suggesting that an awareness campaign would only be effective for ~37% of the households. Context specific socioeconomic factors explain why this relationship does not hold for households with high knowledge scores. These findings are essential for developing targeted cost-effective and sustainable interventions on pesticide usage and other PHIs with context specific modifications.Item How Severe and Prevalent are Ebola and Marburg Viruses? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Case Fatality Rates and Seroprevalence(BMC infectious diseases, 2016) Nyakarahuka, Luke; Kankya, Clovice; Krontveit, Randi; Mayer, Benjamin; Mwiine, Frank N.; Lutwama, Julius; Skjerve, EysteinEbola and Marburg virus diseases are said to occur at a low prevalence, but are very severe diseases with high lethalities. The fatality rates reported in different outbreaks ranged from 24–100%. In addition, sero-surveys conducted have shown different seropositivity for both Ebola and Marburg viruses. We aimed to use a meta-analysis approach to estimate the case fatality and seroprevalence rates of these filoviruses, providing vital information for epidemic response and preparedness in countries affected by these diseases.Published literature was retrieved through a search of databases. Articles were included if they reported number of deaths, cases, and seropositivity. We further cross-referenced with ministries of health, WHO and CDC databases. The effect size was proportion represented by case fatality rate (CFR) and seroprevalence. Analysis was done using the metaprop command in STATA.The weighted average CFR of Ebola virus disease was estimated to be 65.0% [95% CI (54.0–76.0%), I2 = 97.98%] whereas that of Marburg virus disease was 53.8% (26.5–80.0%, I2 = 88.6%). The overall seroprevalence of Ebola virus was 8.0% (5.0%–11.0%, I2 = 98.7%), whereas that for Marburg virus was 1.2% (0.5–2.0%, I2 = 94.8%). The most severe species of ebolavirus was Zaire ebolavirus while Bundibugyo Ebolavirus was the least severe.The pooled CFR and seroprevalence for Ebola and Marburg viruses were found to be lower than usually reported, with species differences despite high heterogeneity between studies. Countries with an improved health surveillance and epidemic response have lower CFR, thereby indicating need for improving early detection and epidemic response in filovirus outbreaks.Item Isolation of non-tuberculosis mycobacteria from pastoral ecosystems of Uganda: Public Health significance(BMC Public Health, 2011) Kankya, Clovice; Muwonge, Adrian; Djønne, Berit; Munyeme, Musso; Opuda-Asibo, John; Skjerve, Eystein; Oloya, James; Edvardsen, Vigdis; Johansen, Tone B.The importance of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections in humans and animals in sub- Saharan Africa at the human-environment-livestock-wildlife interface has recently received increased attention. NTM are environmental opportunistic pathogens of humans and animals. Recent studies in pastoral ecosystems of Uganda detected NTM in humans with cervical lymphadenitis and cattle with lesions compatible with bovine tuberculosis. However, little is known about the source of these mycobacteria in Uganda. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify NTM in the environment of pastoral communities in Uganda, as well as assess the potential risk factors and the public health significance of NTM in these ecosystems. Method: A total of 310 samples (soil, water and faecal from cattle and pigs) were examined for mycobacteria. Isolates were identified by the INNO-Lipa test and by 16S rDNA sequencing. Additionally, a questionnaire survey involving 231 pastoralists was conducted during sample collection. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics followed by a multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results: Forty-eight isolates of NTM were detected; 25.3% of soil samples, 11.8% of water and 9.1% from animal faecal samples contained mycobacteria. Soils around water sources were the most contaminated with NTM (29.8%). Of these samples, M. fortuitum-peregrinum complex, M. avium complex, M. gordonae, and M. nonchromogenicum were the most frequently detected mycobacteria. Drinking untreated compared to treated water (OR = 33), use of valley dam versus stream water for drinking and other domestic use (OR = 20), sharing of water sources with wild primates compared to antelopes (OR = 4.6), sharing of water sources with domestic animals (OR = 5.3), and close contact with cattle or other domestic animals (OR = 13.8) were the most plausible risk factors for humans to come in contact with NTM in the environment. Conclusions: The study detected a wide range of potentially pathogenic NTM from the environment around the pastoral communities in Uganda. Drinking untreated water and living in close contact with cattle or other domestic animals may be risk factors associated with the possibility of humans and animals acquiring NTM infections from these ecosystems.Item Knowledge and Attitude towards Ebola and Marburg Virus Diseases in Uganda Using Quantitative and Participatory Epidemiology Techniques(PLoS neglected tropical diseases, 2017) Nyakarahuka, Luke; Skjerve, Eystein; Nabadda, Daisy; Sitali, Doreen Chilolo; Mumba, Chisoni; Mwiine, Frank N.; Lutwama, Julius J.; Balinandi, Stephen; Shoemaker, Trevor; Kankya, CloviceUganda has reported five (5) Ebola virus disease outbreaks and three (3) Marburg virus disease outbreaks from 2000 to 2016. Peoples’ knowledge and attitude towards Ebola and Marburg virus disease impact on control and prevention measures especially during outbreaks. We describe knowledge and attitude towards Ebola and Marburg virus outbreaks in two affected communities in Uganda to inform future outbreak responses and help in the design of health education and communication messages.The study was a community survey done in Luweero, Ibanda and Kamwenge districts that have experienced outbreaks of Ebola and Marburg virus diseases. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire and triangulated with qualitative participatory epidemiology techniques to gain a communities’ knowledge and attitude towards Ebola and Marburg virus disease.Out of 740 respondents, 48.5% (359/740) were categorized as being knowledgeable about Ebola and Marburg virus diseases, whereas 60.5% (448/740) were having a positive attitude towards control and prevention of Ebola and Marburg virus diseases. The mean knowledge and attitude percentage scores were 54.3 (SD = 23.5, 95%CI = 52.6–56.0) and 69.9 (SD = 16.9, 95%CI = 68.9–71.1) respectively. People educated beyond primary school were more likely to be knowledgeable about Ebola and Marburg virus disease than those who did not attain any formal education (OR = 3.6, 95%CI = 2.1–6.1). Qualitative data revealed that communities describe Ebola and Marburg virus diseases as very severe diseases with no cure and they believe the diseases spread so fast. Respondents reported fear and stigma suffered by survivors, their families and the broader community due to these diseases.Communities in Uganda affected by filovirus outbreaks have moderate knowledge about these diseases and have a positive attitude towards practices to prevent and control Ebola and Marburg viral diseases. The public health sector should enhance this community knowledge gap to empower them more by supplying educational materials for epidemic preparedness in future using appropriate communication channels as proposed by the communities.Item Knowledge, perceptions, and exposure to bats in communities living around bat roosts in Bundibugyo district, Uganda: implications for viral haemorrhagic fever prevention and control(BioMed Central Ltd, 2024-03) Lesley Rose Ninsiima; Nyakarahuka, Luke; Kisaka, Steven; Collins GK. Atuheire; Mugisha, Lawrence; Odoch, Terence; Javier Sánchez Romano; Klein, Jörn; Mor, Siobhan M; Kankya, CloviceAbstract BackgroundBats are a reservoir for many viruses causing haemorrhagic fevers. Proximity to bats is a risk factor for virus spillover to animals and humans. We conducted this study to assess knowledge, perceptions, and exposure to bats in communities living near bat roosts in Bundibugyo District, Uganda.MethodsA cross-sectional study using mixed methods with both quantitative and qualitative data was conducted between September and December 2022. Participants for the quantitative data (survey) (n = 384) resided near bat caves and/or roost sites and were selected using multistage random sampling. The survey investigated participants’ prior exposure to bats, as well as knowledge and perceptions of bat exposure. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with bat exposure. Participants for the qualitative data (focus group discussions) (n = 10, 6–8 participants each) were purposely selected based on engagement in guano mining, hunting, and farming activities. Perceived risk associated with bat-related activities were identified and ranked in the focus group discussions using participatory epidemiology tools.ResultsIn total, (214/384, 55.7%) had a history of bat exposure and (208/384, 54.2%) had poor knowledge of risk factors associated with bat exposure. Increased exposure to bats was associated with being male (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.0, 2.4 p-value = 0.038), staying in urban areas (OR = 1.9; p-value = 0.010), hunting (OR = 10.9; p-value = 0.024), and positive perception to bat guano being safe as fertiliser (OR = 2.5; p-value = 0.045). During the proportional piling process, a total of 7 risk factors were identified by 10 groups with hunting during an outbreak and consumption of bats being the most frequently identified. Overall, there was a strong statistical agreement in the ranking across the 10 focus groups (W = 0.52; p < 0.01; n = 10). Based on the provided data, the adjusted odds ratio of 0.7 for the good measures (p-value = 0.112), suggests a potential protective effect on the risk of bat exposure.ConclusionCommunities living around bat roosts frequently come into contact with bats, yet there is inadequate awareness regarding the behaviors that can lead to the transmission of bat- borne diseases to humans. It is essential to undertake educational initiatives and preventive measures to minimise the risks of bat-related infections. The need for targeted health communication and education efforts to address these knowledge gaps and promote an accurate understanding of bats and disease transmission. Understanding of diseases associated with bats will minimize bat-related health risks especially in communities engaged in wildlife hunting.Item Leptospira Seroprevalence Among Ugandan Slaughter Cattle: Comparison of Sero-Status With Renal Leptospira Infection(Frontiers Veterinary Sciences, 2020) Alinaitwe, Lordrick; Kankya, Clovice; Namanya, Dianah; Pithua, Patrick; Dreyfus, AnouLeptospirosis is one of the most wide spread zoonotic bacterial diseases that is endemic in subtropical and tropical countries; accounting for a global annual incidence of 1.03 million human cases and 58,900 deaths (1). The etiological agents of the disease are spirochetes of the genus Leptospira, comprising over 250 pathogenic serovars (2). Certain serovars are known to be regionally endemic and reserved in certain species of wild mammals and domesticated animals. These carrier animals may remain asymptomatic but capable of transmitting leptospires to other animal species (incidental hosts) and humans, via direct contact with contaminated urine or indirectly through contaminated water and soil (3). Particularly, cattle have been reported to maintain serovars Hardjo, Sejroe and at times Pomona (3–5).Item Leptospira Seroprevalence and Risk Factors in Health Centre Patients in Hoima District, Western Uganda(PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2016) Dreyfus, Anou; Dyal, Jonathan W.; Pearson, Raewynne; Kankya, Clovice; Kajura, Charles; Alinaitwe, Lordrick; Kakooza, Steven; Pelican, Katharine M.; Travis, Dominic A.; Mahero, Michael; Boulware, David R.; Mugisha, LawrenceThe burden of human leptospirosis in Uganda is unknown. We estimated the seroprevalence of Leptospira antibodies, probable acute/recent leptospirosis, and risk factors for seropositivity in humans in rural Western Uganda. Methodology and Principal Findings 359 non-pregnant adults visiting the Kikuube and Kigorobya Health Centers were sequentially recruited during March and April 2014. A health history survey and serum were collected from consented participants. Overall, 69% reported having fever in the past year, with 49% reporting malaria, 14% malaria relapse, 6% typhoid fever, 3% brucellosis, and 0% leptospirosis. We tested sera by microscopic agglutination test (MAT) against eight Leptospira serovars representing seven serogroups. Leptospira seroprevalence was 35% (126/ 359; 95%CI 30.2–40.3%) defined as MAT titer 1:100 for any serovar. The highest prevalence was against L. borgpetersenii Nigeria (serogroup Pyrogenes) at 19.8%(71/359; 95% CI 15.9–24.4%). The prevalence of probable recent leptospirosis (MAT titer 1:800) was 1.9% (95%CI 0.9–4.2%) and uniquely related to serovar Nigeria (serogroup Pyrogenes). Probable recent leptospirosis was associated with having self-reported malaria within the past year (p = 0.048). Higher risk activities included skinning cattle (n = 6) with 12.3 higher odds (95%CI 1.4–108.6; p = 0.024) of Leptospira seropositivity compared with those who had not. Participants living in close proximity to monkeys (n = 229) had 1.92 higher odds (95%CI 1.2–3.1; p = 0.009) of seropositivity compared with participants without monkeys nearby. Conclusions/Significance The 35% prevalence of Leptospira antibodies suggests that exposure to leptospirosis is common in rural Uganda, in particular the Nigeria serovar (Pyrogenes serogroup). Leptospirosis should be a diagnostic consideration in febrile illness and “smear-negative malaria” in rural East Africa.Item Listeria Contamination of Raw Bovine Milk and the Factors Influencing Its Occurrence in Greater Luweero District, Uganda(British Microbiology Research Journal, 2016) Mukasa, David; Kankya, Clovice; Lukanga Nakavuma, JescaTo establish the occurrence of Listeria contamination of raw bovine milk and the contributory factors in Greater Luweero. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out during 2013; in Luweero, Nakaseke and Nakasongola districts, in Central Uganda. All the 16 milk collecting centers in the study area were sampled and the supplying farms identified for trace back. A total of 100 bulk raw milk samples, each representing a farm, were analysed using the VIDAS® Listeria monocytogenes II (LMO2) enzyme-linked fluorescent immunoassay (ELFA) kit (BioMérieux, Durham NC, USA). The supplying farms were systematically random sampled; and the managers together with those of the milk collecting centers were interviewed to establish the management practices and environmental risk factors associated with Listeria contamination of the milk. Results: High level of Listeria contamination of raw milk from farms (72%); knowledge gap and significant non-adherence to milk trade guidelines (50% and 31.25%; and 88% and 39% among milk collecting center and farm managers, respectively) were encountered. Among the factors influencing occurrence of Listeria in raw milk, the significant ones (P=.05) included improper hygienic practices; such as poor faecal disposal, improper cleaning of milking utensils and of hands before milking; and non-adherence to Dairy Development Authority (DDA) guidelines; lack of access to dairy extension services; and absence of farm entry restriction and biosecurity measures. Conclusions: There is a high occurrence of Listeria contaminated raw bovine milk from farms in Greater Luweero district. The risk factors that were significantly associated with the contamination can be minimized through sensitization and training of farmers and center managers. Listeriosis is of great public health significance, hence effective inspections to assess compliance to guidelines for quality and safety is recommended. Establishing Listeria monocytogenes carrier status of cattle; and microbial levels in milk will inform on policies for prevention of contamination.Item Microbiological Quality of Traditionally Smoked Fish from Lake Victoria Crescent, Uganda(Food Science and Quality Management, 2021) Abigaba, Rubaijaniza; Nakavuma, Jessica L.; Kankya, Clovice; Kabasa, John D.Microbiological quality of traditionally smoked fish was assessed to ascertain the effectiveness of traditional smoking process and handling conditions for smoked fish shelf-life and safety. Fish smoking is a popular preservation method in Uganda. Although fish smoking is a widely used method of preservation, the presence of spoilage and pathogenic bacteria in smoked fish and food borne illnesses remain a threat in developing countries. However, little is known about microbial quality of fish smoked from Uganda. In light of this, the status of spoilage, hygiene and pathogenic indicator organisms in fish (Nile perch) was investigated. A total of 75 randomly selected fresh, freshly smoked, and on shelf smoked fish from landing sites and markets respectively, were obtained for microbial and moisture content analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to present the data, while ANOVA and Tukey tests were used to analyze the data. The study revealed that, the smoking process significantly (P<0.05) reduced microbial load in freshly fish to levels acceptable for consumption, despite the high levels of moisture content in the range of 59.2% to 66.5%. The mean microbial load (log of cfu/g) of indicator organisms for samples from different sites varied from; 9.97 to 10.18; 7.39 to 8.19 (aerobic mesophilic bacteria or TPC), 5.18 to 5.27; 0 to 4.28 (total coliforms), 2.73 to 5.55; 0 to 0.85 (E. coli), 4.97 to 7.32; 0 to 3.11 (S. aureus), and 2.21 to 4.56; 0 to 0.82 (Yeasts and molds), for fresh and smoked fish samples respectively. Additionally, mean microbial load for on shelf smoked fish from markets varied from; 8.2 to 10.57 (TPC), 2.8-6.63 (total coliforms), 0 to 6.11 (E. coli), 6.74 to 8.89 (S. aureus), and 0 to 5.51 (Yeasts and molds). Although findings showed that, traditional fish smoking was somewhat effective in reducing microbial load to acceptable levels, the microbial status of on shelf smoked fish indicated poor fish handling and storage. Therefore, proper fish handling during and post-smoking as well as cooking before consumption, are highly recommended for assured shelf-life and safety of smoked fish for consumption in Uganda.Item Molecular characterization of Mycobacterium avium subspecies hominissuis isolated from humans, cattle and pigs in the Uganda cattle corridor using VNTR analysis(Infection, Genetics and Evolution, 2014) Muwonge, Adrian; Oloya, James; Kankya, Clovice; Nielsen, Sigrun; Godfroid, Jacques; Skjerve, Eystein; Djønne, Berit; Johansen, Tone B.Members of the Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) cause disease in both human and animals. Their ubiquitous nature makes them both successful microbes and difficult to source track. The precise characterization of MAC species is a fundamental step in epidemiological studies and evaluating of possible reservoirs. This study aimed at identifying and characterizing Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis isolated from human, slaughter cattle and pigs in various parts of the Uganda cattle corridor (UCC) at two temporal points using variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis. Methods: A total of 46 M. avium isolates; 31 from 997 pigs, 12 from 43 humans biopsies and three from 61 cattle lesions were identified to subspecies level using IS1245 and IS901 PCR, thereafter characterized using VNTR. Twelve loci from two previously described VNTR methods were used and molecular results were analyzed and interpreted using Bionumerics 6.1. Principal findings: 37 of the isolates were identified as M. avium subsp. hominissuis and four as M. avium subsp. avium, while five could not be differentiated, possibly due to mixed infection. There was distinct clustering that coincides with the temporal and spatial differences of the isolates. The isolates from humans and cattle in the North Eastern parts of the UCC shared identical VNTR genotypes. The panel of loci gave an overall discriminatory power of 0.88. Some loci were absent in several isolates, probably reflecting differences in isolates from Uganda/Africa compared to isolates previously analyzed by these methods in Europe and Asia. Conclusions: The findings indicate amolecular difference between M. aviumsubsp. hominissuis isolates from pigs inMubende and cattle and human in the rest of the UCC. Although human and cattle shared VNTR genotypes in the North Eastern parts of the UCC, it is most likely a reflection of a shared environmental source.Item Molecular Epidemiology, Drug Susceptibility and Economic Aspects of Tuberculosis in Mubende District, Uganda(PLoS ONE, 2013) Muwonge, Adrian; Malama, Sydney; Johansen, Tone B.; Kankya, Clovice; Biffa, Demelash; Ssengooba, Willy; Godfroid, Jacques; Djønne, Berit; Skjerve, EysteinTuberculosis (TB) remains a global public health problem whose effects have major impact in developing countries like Uganda. This study aimed at investigating genotypic characteristics and drug resistance profiles of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolated from suspected TB patients. Furthermore, risk factors and economic burdens that could affect the current control strategies were studied. Methods: TB suspected patients were examined in a cross-sectional study at the Mubende regional referral hospital between February and July 2011. A questionnaire was administered to each patient to obtain information associated with TB prevalence. Isolates of M. tuberculosis recovered during sampling were examined for drug resistance to first line anti-TB drugs using the BACTEC-MGIT960TMsystem. All isolates were further characterized using deletion analysis, spoligotyping and MIRU-VNTR analysis. Data were analyzed using different software; MIRU-VNTR plus, SITVITWEB, BioNumerics and multivariable regression models. Results: M. tuberculosis was isolated from 74 out of 344 patients, 48 of these were co-infected with HIV. Results from the questionnaire showed that previously treated TB, co-infection with HIV, cigarette smoking, and overcrowding were risk factors associated with TB, while high medical related transport bills were identified as an economic burden. Out of the 67 isolates that gave interpretable results, 23 different spoligopatterns were detected, nine of which were novel patterns. T2 with the sub types Uganda-I and Uganda-II was the most predominant lineage detected. Antibiotic resistance was detected in 19% and multidrug resistance was detected in 3% of the isolates. Conclusion: The study detected M. tuberculosis from 21% of examined TB patients, 62% of whom were also HIV positive. There is a heterogeneous pool of genotypes that circulate in this area, with the T2 lineage being the most predominant. High medical related transport bills and drug resistance could undermine the usefulness of the current TB strategic interventions.Item Molecular investigation of multiple strain infections in patients with tuberculosis in Mubende district, Uganda(Infection, Genetics and Evolution, 2013) Muwonge, Adrian; Kankya, Clovice; Olea-Popelka, Francisco; Biffa, Demelash; Ssengooba, Willy; Berit, Djønne; Skjerve, Eystein; Johansen, Tone B.Multiple strain tuberculosis (TB) infections are now an acceptable facet of tuberculosis epidemiology. Identification of patients infected with more than one strain gives an insight in disease dynamics at individual and population level. This study therefore aimed at identifying multiple strain infections among TB infected patients. Furthermore, to determine factors associated with multiple strain infections in Mubende district of Uganda. A total of 72 Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from patients at Mubende regional referral hospital were characterized using 15 loci MIRU-VNTR, Spoligotyping and deletion analysis. Genotypic and epidemiological data were analyzed using MIRU-VNTR plus, Bionumerics software version 6.1 and an exact logistic regression model respectively. Eight (11.1%) of the 72 patients had mixed TB infections. Five were exclusively pulmonary mixed infections while three had both pulmonary and extra-pulmonary infections (Compartmentalized TB infections). Unlike previous studies that have linked this phenomenon to Beijing strains, multiple strains in this study belonged to T2-Uganda, X2 and T1 lineages. Two of the pulmonary mixed infections were resistant to rifampicin or isoniazid. All except one were HIV positive, newly diagnosed cases and urban residents of Mubende district. The study revealed that one in nine urban dwelling, HIV/TB co-infected patient were infected with more than one M. tuberculosis strains. The molecular findings give indications of a vital component of the disease dynamics that is most likely under looked at clinical level.