An integrated approach to timely detection and prevention of waterborne zoonoses outbreak in selected municipalities of Eastern Cape, South Africa

C.F. Nnadozie, O.N. Odume, F. Akamagwuna, S.M. Mazibuko and N. Mgaba

Sponsor: Water Research Commission
Collaborators: Dr V. Msimang (South African National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS)  and National Institute For Communicable Diseases (NICD))

April 2023 – March 2026

As climate change progresses, the incidence of waterborne zoonotic outbreaks is expected to increase, worsening the situation for both recreational, and private or communal drinking water sources, which are known to be sources of such outbreaks and sporadic diseases. This project aims to develop an integrated surveillance system by combining environmental, community (human), and animal surveillance data to detect emerging infectious disease threats and prevent waterborne zoonoses outbreaks. Preliminary data, particularly from 2022 onwards, reveal a significant rise in zoonotic disease animal cases in Eastern Cape, underscoring the need for enhanced surveillance, rapid response measures, and targeted public health interventions to manage these emerging challenges effectively.

Last Modified: Tue, 06 Aug 2024 14:42:55 SAST