Transmission ecology and risk factors for cystic echinococcosis in sub-Saharan Africa

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Peter Kern; Professorin Dr. Ute Mackenstedt, since 9/2023
• Subject Area: Parasitology and Biology of Tropical Infectious Disease Pathogens
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 444708621

Sub-Saharan Africa is one of the regions most seriously affected by cystic echinococcosis (CE) of humans and livestock. After decades of neglect, considerable knowledge has been gained in recent years on geographical distribution and host species involvement of the various Echinococcus species that cause CE. Sub-Saharan Africa gradually emerges as the world region with the highest diversity of causative agents and with the highest complexity of transmission patterns. Despite this progress, factors that determine presence and frequency of the various disease agents in particular areas remain little understood. This is relevant for human health, as different Echinococcus spp. contribute unequally to human disease burden with E. granulosus sensu stricto having the highest impact on public health both globally and in Africa. It is therefore important to understand the factors that determine the transmission of these parasite at different spatial scales and eventually to establish predictive scenarios for CE (that often affects remote areas that are difficult to access). We propose studies in transmission ecology in selected areas where basic parameters such as presence and approximate abundance of Echinococcus spp. have already been identified by consortium members. Selected to be representative for larger regions, these areas are highly variable concerning levels of disease impact, presence of host animal species, environmental parameters and economic conditions. In each of seven areas in Ethiopia, Kenya, Zambia, Namibia and Ghana, quantitative data on human, livestock and wildlife CE caused by different Echinococcus species and genotypes will be established in addition to data on relevant human activities. This will be used to formulate large scale predictive models and select predictive variables such as land cover, climate, pastoral traditions, dog management, and wild and domestic host communities. In addition, the data will be used to generate precise figures on the impact on human health and the economy in different countries.In addition, contacts to medical and veterinary institutions will be established in countries that are yet data deficient concerning presence / absence of Echinococcus spp. (e.g. western and central Africa) and explorative field surveys will be done.The project will strengthen the research capacities of the consortium members by offers for specialized training in epidemiology, molecular biology, ultrasonography, wildlife ecology and related subjects. Emphasis will be placed to upgrade existing laboratories to competitive standards, and to establish a within-Africa scientific exchange rather than reliance on European expertise. To confirm the scientific quality of the research, internationally renowned experts for transmission ecology, epidemiology, economic assessments and clinical diagnostics have agreed to serve as external consultants and further cooperative partners for the African consortium members.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Ethiopia, France, Ghana, Italy, Kenya, Namibia, Switzerland, Zambia
• Cooperation Partners: Professor Dr. Patrick Giraudoux; Professor Dr. Alessandro Massolo; Professor Dr. Paul Torgerson
• International Co-Applicants: Francis Addy, Ph.D.; Dr. Hans Karl Ortwin Aschenborn; Professor Dr. Japhet Kithinji Magambo; Dr. Cecilia Mbae; Chummy Sikasunge, Ph.D.; Dr. Daniel Woldeyes Habtie, Ph.D.
• Co-Investigator: Privatdozentin Dr. Beate Grüner
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Dr. Thomas Romig, until 9/2023