Threat Report: Emerging Diseases In Kenya, July 21, 2017 ✓ Solved

Threat Report Emerging Diseases In Kenyaname21 July 2017table Of Con

The assignment requires developing a PowerPoint presentation (max 15 slides, excluding title and references) on emerging infectious disease threats in Kenya. The presentation must identify at least two emerging infectious diseases present in Kenya, including one zoonotic organism. For each pathogen, discuss host range(s), transmission methods, disease characteristics, morbidity/mortality rates, and current and future countermeasures. Additionally, extend the research to include the availability of public health care laws or measures within Kenya for disease surveillance and control. Address societal, environmental, psychological, behavioral, or other influences that may impact the establishment and persistence of these diseases in the region. The slides should be well-organized, visually appealing, and contain clear headings, readable fonts, and appropriate graphics. Citations should follow APA format in both the slides and the final reference list.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Title: Emerging Infectious Disease Threats in Kenya: A Detailed Analysis

Introduction

Kenya, situated in East Africa, faces ongoing challenges from emerging infectious diseases that pose significant threats to public health and economic stability. With its diverse ecosystems, high population density, and expanding urban centers, the country is vulnerable to a variety of zoonotic and non-zoonotic pathogens. This paper examines two emerging infectious disease threats in Kenya, with an emphasis on their epidemiological profiles, public health measures, and societal influences that shape their persistence.

Disease 1: Rift Valley Fever (RVF)

Overview and Host Range

Rift Valley Fever is a viral zoonosis caused by the Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV), a Phlebovirus of the Bunyaviridae family. It primarily affects livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats, but can also infect humans (Anyangu et al., 2010). The disease's host range extends across multiple species, making it a significant concern for both veterinary and human health sectors.

Transmission and Disease Characteristics

Transmission occurs mainly through mosquito vectors, particularly Aedes and Culex species, which breed abundantly during heavy rains and flooding (Bird et al., 2009). Human infection can occur via mosquito bites or through direct contact with blood, organs, or tissues of infected animals. Symptoms in humans range from mild febrile illness to severe hemorrhagic fever, with mortality rates reaching up to 50% in severe cases (WHO, 2018).

Countermeasures and Public Health Laws

Kenya employs vaccination campaigns, vector control measures, and animal movement restrictions during outbreaks. The Veterinary Services Department monitors animal health, while the Ministry of Health coordinates human health responses (Ochieng et al., 2015). Nonetheless, gaps remain due to limited resources and infrastructure to sustain timely surveillance and response.

Societal and Environmental Influences

Climate variability, such as El Niño-driven rainfall, influences mosquito breeding and hence RVF outbreaks. Additionally, pastoral communities' practices of animal husbandry and slaughter contribute to exposure risks. Socioeconomic factors like poverty can limit access to healthcare and vector control initiatives, exacerbating disease persistence (Shiferaw et al., 2014).

Disease 2: Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)

Overview and Host Range

CCHF is a tick-borne viral disease caused by the CCHF virus, a Nairovirus of the Bunyaviridae family. It infects domestic animals such as cattle, sheep, and camels, which serve as amplifying hosts, and can infect humans through tick bites or contact with infected blood or tissues (Munyua et al., 2014).

Transmission and Disease Characteristics

Transmission mainly occurs via Hyalomma ticks. Human cases often result from occupational exposure, including veterinarians, farmers, and slaughterhouse workers. Symptoms include high fever, myalgia, vomiting, and hemorrhagic phenomena, with case fatality rates around 30% (WHO, 2018).

Public Health Measures

Kenya’s public health responses include tick control programs, safety protocols during animal slaughter, and community education. Despite these measures, challenges exist due to limited diagnostic infrastructure and coordination among veterinary and health services (Gitao et al., 2014).

Societal and Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as arid conditions and livestock movement facilitate tick distribution. Cultural practices, including traditional slaughtering methods without adequate protective measures, increase occupational exposure. Poverty and ignorance further hinder control efforts (Kipchirchir et al., 2019).

Conclusion

Kenya faces ongoing threats from emerging zoonotic diseases like Rift Valley Fever and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, driven by ecological, societal, and infrastructural factors. Strengthening surveillance, implementing comprehensive vector control, and improving public awareness are vital steps to mitigate these threats. A One Health approach integrating veterinary and human health sectors can enhance disease preparedness and response, protecting Kenya’s population and economy from these rising infectious threats.

References

  • Anyangu, A. S., et al. (2010). Risk factors for Rift Valley fever virus infection among febrile patients in Kenya, 2006. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 16(7), 1076-1082.
  • Bird, B. H., et al. (2009). Rift Valley fever virus transmission and control. Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology, 328, 123-151.
  • Gitao, C. G., et al. (2014). Seroprevalence of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Kenya: A review. Virologica Sinica, 29(5), 317-319.
  • Kipchirchir, E. N., et al. (2019). Socioeconomic and environmental factors influencing tick-borne diseases in Kenya. Journal of Parasitology Research, 2019, 1-9.
  • Munyua, H., et al. (2014). Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Kenya. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, 210(Suppl 1), S156-S161.
  • Ochieng, C. O., et al. (2015). An integrated approach to Rift Valley Fever control in Kenya. Journal of Infectious Diseases, 211, S177–S183.
  • Shiferaw, S., et al. (2014). Risk Factors and Environmental Drivers of Rift Valley Fever Outbreaks in Kenya. PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 8(6), e2922.
  • World Health Organization (WHO). (2018). Rift Valley Fever and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever: Surveillance and Control. WHO Report.

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