The number of zoonotic epidemics (of animal origin) has increased by 63% over the past ten years in Africa, the regional office of the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday, warning of an increased risk due to especially population growth on the continent. “Africa faces a growing risk of disease outbreaks caused by zoonotic pathogens, such as the monkeypox virus that originated in animals before changing species and infecting humans,” writes WHO-Africa in a press release issued alongside its weekly press briefing.
The WHO noted between 2001 and 2022 in Africa “1,843 proven public health events”, 30% of which were epidemics of zoonoses. These numbers have increased over the past two decades, but “a particular peak was recorded in 2019 and 2020, when zoonotic pathogens accounted for around 50% of public health events”.
“Ebola virus disease and other viral haemorrhagic fevers make up nearly 70% of these outbreaks, including dengue fever, anthrax, plague, monkeypox, and a range of other diseases make up the remaining 30%” , the statement said.
The WHO gives several reasons for the increase in cases of zoonoses.
“Africa has the fastest growing population in the world and there is a growing demand for animal-derived foods,” she writes. “Population growth is also driving increasing urbanization and encroachment on wildlife habitats,” notes WHO-Africa.
In addition, she continues, “road, rail, sea and air links are improving (…), which increases the risk of the spread of epidemics” from remote areas to large urban areas.
“We must act now to stem zoonoses before they can cause widespread infections and prevent Africa from becoming the epicenter of emerging infectious diseases,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.
She recommends an intensification of research, as well as collaboration and information sharing between “diverse sectors, disciplines and communities”. “Only by breaking down the walls between disciplines can we address all aspects of the response,” she says.
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