Theophilus Odoom

Dog-mediated human rabies is a vaccine-preventable neglected zoonotic disease, causing thousands of deaths every year across Africa and Asia. Information to generate the appropriate attention and action to avert human rabies is lacking due to disaggregation of available data. This study sought to understand the burden of dog-mediated rabies transmission and response patterns in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, and analyzed dog-bite surveillance, rabies laboratory investigations, and hospital visitation data from 2009 to 2019. A total of 442 bite incidents were recorded, with most occurring in the Kumasi metropolis, particularly in the Oforikrom and Manhyia sub-metros. Many victims sought healthcare outside their bite-incident districts, often at the Manhyia Government Hospital, likely due to vaccine availability. Bite incidents were generally reported promptly within two days, although final investigations took about fourteen days. The sale of implicated dogs for human consumption during observation periods posed an additional rabies risk. There was a 67.53% positivity for animal rabies (n = 156/231) in laboratory investigations, and dogs accounted for most confirmed cases (141/210), though livestock and non-human primates were also affected. More than 70% of dog-bite victims were linked to rabies-positive animals, showing a significant association between bites and confirmed rabies cases. Reported dog-bite frequency varied considerably over time, with the highest monthly frequencies occurring between 2010 and 2013, and with a sustained positive seasonal effect from August to November within a year. The findings highlight that dog-mediated rabies remains a major public health threat in the region and emphasize the need for improved One Health investigations, surveillance, and public education to reduce rabies transmission and exposure risks.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) represents one of the most severe transboundary animal diseases globally. Although considered endemic in Ghana, recent data on circulating serotypes are limited. This study investigated and characterized FMD outbreaks occurring between July and December 2024, assessed the occurrence of the infection in seemingly healthy cattle imports, and explored alternative methods to enhance early diagnosis in livestock; using probang Sera, epithelial tissue and oral mucosal swabs were obtained from cattle exhibiting signs suggestive of FMD from farms, livestock markets and a slaughter facility. This was followed by a cross-sectional survey at two major points of entry (POE) to Ghana to obtain oropharyngeal samples using probang from healthy cattle to assess the possible role of imported cattle in the outbreaks in the northern and southern regions of the country. Samples were analysed for FMD virus (FMDV) and non-structural protein (NSP) antibodies to assess infection and exposure from the outbreak foci and POE. Positive samples were sequenced to characterize the virus serotypes. Outbreaks were reported in 38 kraals, three livestock markets, and one slaughter facility across 14 districts in nine regions. Morbidity rates ranged from 8% to 100% (median = 50%), with fatalities occurring in three kraals. Of the 247 samples from outbreak locations, FMD virus was detected in 49.4% (122/247). A majority of cattle (66.03%, 140/212) tested seropositive for FMD NSP antibodies. From healthy cattle at POE, 250 oropharyngeal (probang) samples were collected, with 62.4% testing positive, distributed between the north and south. Only 1.6% of the samples had FMDV RNA detected using PCR. Phylogenetic analysis identified serotypes O, A, and SAT2. These findings confirm the co-circulation of multiple FMDV serotypes in Ghana and highlight the necessity for enhanced molecular surveillance and coordinated cross-border control measures.

Avian influenza viruses continue to pose significant zoonotic and pandemic threat globally, with low-pathogenic avian influenza A(H9N2) being of particular concern due to sustained circulation in poultry, adaptability, and repeated human spillover. This study investigated the detection and genetic characterization of influenza viruses at the animal–human interface in Ghana in 2022, using a nationwide cross-sectional One Health approach. Samples were collected from poultry, pigs, the environment, and animal handlers across backyard farms, commercial farms, and live bird markets. Laboratory testing was conducted using real-time RT-PCR, while statistical associations were assessed using chi-square and logistic regression. Whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were performed on selected positive samples. Out of 4056 samples, 1516 were poultry samples. A(H9N2) was detected exclusively in poultry, with a prevalence of 5.67%. The Northern belt recorded the highest prevalence. Live bird markets had significantly higher odds of A(H9N2) detection compared with commercial farms (odds ratio: 15.37, p < 0.0001), while backyard farms had lower odds. Environmental samples were negative. Among animal handlers, one case each of A(H3N2) and SARS-CoV-2 was identified. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that Ghanaian strains belonged to clade G1 and possessed mammalian-adaptive markers. These findings highlight ongoing circulation in poultry and the need for sustained One Health surveillance.

Under a One Health framework, viruses of veterinary and zoonotic importance pose significant threats to animal and human health, food security, and livelihoods, particularly in regions with intense human–animal interactions. In West Africa, despite recent advances in surveillance programs, important gaps remain in understanding viral diversity and cross-species transmission at wildlife–livestock interfaces. We conducted metagenomic surveillance to characterize viruses circulating across livestock, domestic animals, and wildlife in rural Ghana in 165 animals sampled across five regions. Viral RNA from serum and tissue samples was sequenced with the Illumina platform, and genomes were de novo assembled with MEGAHIT. Phylogenetic relationships were reconstructed using Bayesian approaches. We report the first genomic sequences of porcine parvovirus 3, canine parvovirus, rotavirus A genotype R16, and bovine hepacivirus subtype B from Ghana in over a decade. Phylogenetic analyses revealed intercontinental linkages between Africa and Europe for parvoviruses, persistence of hepacivirus lineages, and evidence of cross-species transmission for rotavirus. Notably, detection in apparently healthy animals highlights underrecognized circulation, gaps in vaccination effectiveness, trade-related biosecurity vulnerabilities, and the role of wildlife in viral maintenance and transmission. Our findings reveal dynamic viral diversity and connectivity across animal populations and ecological interfaces, emphasizing the fluid and interconnected nature of pathogen circulation within One Health systems. By integrating metagenomics and phylogenetics, this study provides a scalable framework for enhancing surveillance capacity, enabling the early detection of emerging threats and informing targeted strategies to mitigate zoonotic and economically important viral diseases in West Africa.

The frequency of highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in Ghana and neighbouring countries require the detection of avian influenza virus subtypes H5 and H9 in local poultry at live bird markets (LBMs) in border areas. Using real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), we analyzed 770 samples from local chickens, guinea fowl, and ducks across four border live bird markets. Samples were screened for influenza A virus (Ct<35). Prevalence by sample type, location, and species was calculated at 95% confidence. Of the 770 samples, the prevalence of influenza A was 6.4% (CI: 4.7–8.3). Tracheal swabs showed a higher prevalence (8.8%; CI: 6.2–12.1) than cloacal swabs (3.9%; CI: 2.2–6.3). Similarly, Southern Ghana showed a higher prevalence (11.2%; CI: 7.4, 16.0) than in Northern Ghana (4.4%; CI: 2.8, 6.5) (p<0.05). Further subtyping of the M-gene-positive samples confirmed the circulation of H5 [4.4% (CI: 2.6, 7.0)] and H9 [2.9% (CI: 1.4, 5.1)] in all four live bird markets from the two locations. This study highlights the need for transboundary surveillance of H5 and H9 viruses, improved biosecurity, and policy interventions in border live bird markets to reduce the maintenance and transmission of AIVs in Ghana.

Introduction: Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) is a fatal zoonotic disease of humans and nonhuman primates caused by the Marburg virus (MARV) of the Filoviridae family, and presenting as hemorrhagic fever with a high fatality rate. Egyptian fruit bats, Rousettus aegyptiacus , are the principal natural reservoir, with evidence linking them to most human outbreaks. Methods: This systematic review evaluated the prevalence of MARV in bats, domestic animals, and rodents, as well as the duration of antibodies and potential routes of viral shedding. A comprehensive search of six (6) scientific databases identified 30 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Results: In bats, seroprevalence ranged from less than 1% to about 54% while MARV genes were detected in 0.8–3% of samples. MARV antibodies persisted for up to 11months in naturally infected bats, while induced or maternal antibodies declined within 5 months. Apart from Rousettus aegyptiacus , occasional seropositivity was detected in other bat species such as Epomops franqueti , Micropteropus pusillus , Hypsignathus monstrosus , and Eidolon helvum , whereas MARV particles were observed in Rousettus aegyptiacus and Hipposideros spp. Even though viral genes were undetected in domestic animals, non-human primates (NPH) and rodents, antibodies were reported in dogs and livestock, and NPH in Ghana and Gabon and Zambia, respectively, indicating a higher probability of non-lethal MARV exposure in these species. Discussion: These findings confirm Rousettus aegyptiacus as the primary reservoir but suggest that other bats and domestic animals may contribute to the natural maintenance of MARV. Expanded multispecies surveillance in high-risk regions is essential to clarify reservoirs, host distribution, and transmission dynamics. Understanding these patterns is critical for designing targeted interventions to reduce spillover risk to humans.

Introduction: During the 2021 COVID‐19 pandemic, Ghana experienced outbreaks of high pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) H5N1 among poultry. Objectives: Here, we describe the distribution and genetic characterisation of clade 2.3.4.4b HPAIV H5N1 isolated among poultry. Methods: We conducted active surveillance for influenza viruses among animals (poultry and swine) and environmental samples across Ghana from 2021 to 2022. Tracheal/cloacal swabs were collected from poultry while nasal/anal swabs were collected from swine. Environmental samples (bird droppings, feathers, and water) were collected from Ramsar sites. We detected the presence of influenza viruses using specific primers and probes and reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions previously described by the US‐CDC. We sequenced and detected viruses using Oxford Nanopore Technologies. Results: A total of 2847 samples were collected: 2640 from birds, 207 from swine, and 186 from the environment. Out of 2847, 2.2% (63/2847) were positive for HPAIV H5N1. All the H5N1 viruses were detected in poultry populations and none in swine. Again, environmental samples tested negative for influenza. Greater Accra (35), Central (10), and Upper East (7) regions recorded the highest number of H5N1 infections. Phylogenetic analysis of H5N1 showed that these viruses belonged to the clade 2.3.4.4b, which is currently circulating worldwide. Genetic analysis of the HA revealed some mammalian adaptive motifs. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of continuous genomic surveillance for these zoonotic pathogens in‐country and further analyses to determine their zoonotic potential. Early detection and local containment are critical for mitigating the threat posed by zoonotic influenza.

Antibiotics remain the option for treating avian colibacillosis (AvCol), but the increasing emergence of antimicrobial resistant bacteria is negatively impacting treatment outcomes. To assist veterinarians in treating AvCol in Ghana, we evaluated the susceptibility of 40 avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) obtained from 51 organs (lung, heart, spleen and liver) of 14 broilers diagnosed with colibacillosis, to six antibiotics using the Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method and further evaluated for colistin resistance using Chromagar COL-APSE. APEC was detected in at least one organ of each AvCol-diagnosed bird. The lungs showed the highest isolation frequency (91.7%). High resistance to tetracycline (100%), ampicillin (95.0%) and trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole (77.5%) was observed. Susceptibility to gentamicin was 85.0%. About two-thirds (n=35, 87.5%) of isolates were multidrug-resistant with 40% (n=14) resistant to five antimicrobial classes. About a third (n=15/40, 37.5%) of APEC isolates from more than half (n=9/14, 64.3%) of the birds were resistant to colistin. APEC associated with AvCol showed high resistance to most antibiotics frequently used in the poultry industry but was susceptible to gentamicin. Isolates exhibited high MDR and moderate resistance to colistin. The findings highlight the need for enhanced surveillance systems on antibiotic use in poultry in the country.

African swine fever is a highly contagious and deadly disease of both domestic and wild pigs. In developing countries such as Ghana, the diagnosis and control of ASF are very challenging. In this paper, we discussed factors that account for ASF endemicity in many developing nations, with special focus on Ghana. We identified possible ASF spread via pig value chain through the transportation of live pigs across regions in Ghana. Major factors contributing to ASF spread in Ghana include lack of farmer compensation during ASF outbreaks, free range system of pig farming, porous country borders, lack of rapid on-site diagnostic test kits, unsafe sample collection and transportation to diagnostic laboratories, long diagnostic test turnaround, and improper carcass disposal. We also discuss available diagnostic options for ASF and their limitations. We propose a more holistic approach to ASF control in Ghana. These measures include applying a muti-sectoral approach, rehabilitation of inactive regional laboratories and expansion of services to six newly established regions, promoting point of care testing and developing and implementing farmer compensation plan during outbreaks. These proposed ASF control measures will provide field veterinarians with effective means to make informed decisions while awaiting laboratory confirmation of outbreaks.

Livestock mobility is common in West Africa and presents opportunities for optimizing the surveillance of livestock diseases. In Ghana, however, data derived from livestock mobility have been insufficiently analyzed for informed decision-making. This study reviewed and analyzed a six-year retrospective secondary livestock movement data from key border entry points and a livestock market in Ghana and their distribution by animal, place and time. The study focused on two border entry points to Ghana: Paga in the north and Dzodze in the southeast, and the Turaku livestock market in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Secondary movement data for sheep, goats, cattle, and pigs were extracted from livestock movement permits (LMPs), detailing species, origin, destination, transport mode, volume of movement, and permit dates. Data was entered and cleaned in Microsoft Excel, exported to Epi InfoTM to generate descriptive statistics and presented in tables and graphs. Maps on animal movement were generated using QGIS. Between 2018 and 2023, 22,821 livestock movements were recorded at Paga, primarily from Burkina Faso, with 82.9% destined for Accra (Turaku) and other parts of Ghana. Dzodze recorded 5,611 movements (2021–2023), with 84.5% heading to Turaku and 14.4% to Côte d’Ivoire. In Turaku, 40,062 incoming and 16,862 outgoing movements were recorded (2017–2022), mostly from Paga (21.6%) and Dzodze (20.5%). Most livestock were destined for Accra (63.0%) and the central region of Ghana. Livestock movement occurred fluidly to and through Ghana, as well as to neighboring countries via the northern and southern borders, presenting the potential spread of TADs and zoonotic diseases. A regional approach to disease surveillance is necessary to anticipate and prevent outbreaks of TADs.