Presumptive fatal Aflatoxicosis of dogs in Southern Malawi

Aflatoxins are secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus spp which can lead to serious health outcomes for both people and animals if ingested via contaminated food. An outbreak of presumptive aflatoxin poisoning affected dogs in southern Malawi after consuming contaminated home-cooked maize. The dogs presented with clinical signs consistent with liver damage. Blood tests, necropsy findings and histological examination of liver tissue revealed changes consistent with hepatic damage. Tests on 16 households' maize samples, representing some of the affected dogs' feed, identified detectable aflatoxin levels. This report demonstrates the probable effects aflatoxin can have on canine health and the potential effects to human health through consumption of unregulated maize. Veterinarians play a key role in identifying such outbreaks, not only reducing dog deaths but also acting as a crucial early warning system for potential human health risks.