Zoonotic Parasites and Their Association With Human Activities in Northern Tanzania: An Integrated Ecosystem Approach...

Area of Science:

• One Health
• Parasitology
• Public Health

Background:

• Zoonotic diseases pose a significant public health threat, yet community awareness and control measures are often underestimated.
• Human activities and close proximity to animals can increase the risk of zoonotic disease transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of zoonotic parasites in Northern Tanzania.
• To assess community knowledge and practices related to zoonotic disease risks.
• To identify risk factors associated with the transmission of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs).

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional surveys conducted in 12 villages in Northern Tanzania (2019-2023).
• Parasitological examination of 255 samples from various environmental and animal sources.
• Focus Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews to assess community awareness and practices.

Main Results:

• 152 out of 255 samples (59.6%) tested positive for parasite eggs and oocysts, including hookworms, Trichuris sp., Strongyloides sp., Eimeria sp., Taeniids, Hymenolepis sp., Spirometra sp., and Dipylidium sp.
• Specific parasite distributions were linked to proximity to protected areas and village locations.
• Significant associations found between hygiene practices, livestock proximity, ecological factors, and human-animal interaction with STH prevalence.

Conclusions:

• A generally low level of community awareness regarding zoonotic diseases and STHs was observed.
• The high prevalence of STHs, coupled with low awareness, underscores the need for proactive transmission reduction strategies.
• Implementing targeted education and comprehensive public health interventions is crucial to mitigate the burden of zoonotic diseases.