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

Isibor, Patrick Omoregie and Onwaeze, O. O. and Kayode-Edwards, I. I. and Agbontaen, D. O. and Ifebem-Ezima, I. A. M. and BILEWU, OLAYEMI FUNMILAYO and ONUSELOGU, CHINEDU CHARLES and Akinniyi, A. P. and Obafemi, Yemisi Dorcas and Oniha, M. I. (2024) Investigating and combatting the key drivers of viral zoonoses in Africa: an analysis of eight epidemics. Brazilian Journal of Biology, 84. pp. 1-17. ISSN 1519-6984 (Print) ISSN 1678-4375 (Online)

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Abstract

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.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: zoonoses, epidemic, pandemic, omicron, ecological restoration, HIV, Ebola, Lassa fever, monkeypox, Rift Valley fever, West Nile virus.
Subjects: Q Science > QH Natural history > QH301 Biology
Divisions: Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences > School of Biological Sciences
Depositing User: nwokealisi
Date Deposited: 21 Nov 2023 11:45
Last Modified: 21 Nov 2023 11:45
URI: http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/17627

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