By John Ikani
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern over the increasing rate of outbreaks of diseases that spread from animals to people.
Analysis by the global health body indicates that there has been a 63% increase in the number of such outbreaks on the continent in the decade from 2012-2022 compared to 2001-2011.
Most of the cases have involved the Ebola virus, other viral haemorrhagic diseases, dengue fever, anthrax and monkeypox.
The global health body said among the reasons behind the spread of these diseases are rapid population growth, increased demand for food derived from animals and encroachment on wildlife habitats.
WHO’s Regional Director for Africa Matshidiso Moeti said there was a need to act now to stop Africa becoming a hotspot for emerging infectious diseases.
“We need all hands on deck to prevent and control zoonotic diseases,” said Dr Moeti.
“Zoonotic diseases are caused by spillover events from animals to humans. Only when we break down the walls between disciplines can we tackle all aspects of the response.
Dr Moeti made the assertion during a virtual press conference on Wednesday. She was joined by Dr Franklin Asiedu Bekoe, Director of Public Health, Ghana Health Service and Dr Karim Tounkara, Regional Representative for Africa, World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
Also on hand from WHO Regional Office for Africa to respond to questions were Dr Opeayo Ogundiran, Epidemiology Pillar Lead for the Regional COVID-19 Response; Dr. Charles Okot Lukoya, Epidemiologist; Dr Pamela Mitula, Routine Epidemiology and New Vaccine Officer; Dr Tieble Traore, Technical Officer; and Dr Solomon Woldetsadik, Emergency Response Officer.
