Journal of Animal Health

Roles of Wildlife Reservoirs in the Maintenance and Transmission of Zoonotic Diseases in Nigeria

2024-04-24T10:53:33+03:00

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine roles of wildlife reservoirs in the maintenance and transmission of zoonotic diseases in Nigeria.

Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.

Findings: The study revealed that wildlife populations serve as reservoirs for a diverse array of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, many of which have the potential to spill over into human populations and cause disease outbreaks. Factors such as habitat destruction, encroachment into wildlife habitats, wildlife trade, and climate change contribute to increased interactions between humans and wildlife, facilitating the transmission of zoonotic pathogens.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Ecological niche theory & Host-Pathogen Coevolution Theory may be used to anchor future studies on roles of wildlife reservoirs in the maintenance and transmission of zoonotic diseases in Nigeria. Strengthen surveillance systems to monitor wildlife populations, identify emerging zoonotic pathogens, and assess the risk of spillover events. This includes implementing targeted surveillance programs in high-risk regions and species known to harbor zoonotic pathogens. Develop and implement wildlife conservation policies that prioritize the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem health while considering the potential risks associated with zoonotic disease transmission.

Contribution of Livestock Farming to Environmental Pollution in China

2024-04-24T12:59:43+03:00

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine contribution of livestock farming to environmental pollution in China.

Findings: The study found that livestock farming in China significantly contributes to environmental pollution, posing substantial challenges to water, air, and soil quality. Intensive livestock operations, characterized by concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), generate large quantities of animal waste containing nutrients and pathogens that contaminate water bodies. Additionally, livestock farming contributes to air pollution through emissions of ammonia and other pollutants, particularly in areas with intensive farming practices. Soil degradation and nutrient imbalance further exacerbate environmental degradation, with higher livestock densities associated with increased soil compaction and nutrient runoff.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Tragedy of the Commons & Ecological Modernization Theory may be used to anchor future studies on contribution of livestock farming to environmental pollution in China. Promote the adoption of sustainable livestock management practices through capacity building, training, and extension services for farmers. Encourage the implementation of integrated farming systems that optimize resource use, minimize waste generation, and enhance environmental resilience. Strengthen regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with environmental standards and promote responsible livestock production. Implement stringent measures to control water pollution from livestock waste, including mandatory wastewater treatment and monitoring programs.

Socio-Economic Impacts of Endemic and Epidemic Diseases on Livestock Production Systems in Tanzania

2024-04-24T11:21:24+03:00

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine socio-economic impacts of endemic and epidemic diseases on livestock production systems in Tanzania.

Findings: The study revealed that endemic diseases such as brucellosis, foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), and contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) pose ongoing challenges to livestock health, productivity, and household livelihoods. Epidemic diseases like avian influenza and peste des petits ruminants (PPR) can cause sudden outbreaks, leading to acute disruptions in production and trade. These disease outbreaks result in various socio-economic consequences, including decreased livestock productivity, loss of income for farmers, increased veterinary and containment costs, and disruptions in domestic and international trade. Additionally, diseases can exacerbate poverty and food insecurity among rural communities reliant on livestock for sustenance and income generation.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Economic theory of disease control & social-ecological systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on socio-economic impacts of endemic and epidemic diseases on livestock production systems in Tanzania. Building technical capacity at the grassroots level empowers communities to implement effective disease management strategies and adopt biosecurity measures. Establishing community-based disease surveillance systems that empower local communities to monitor and report disease outbreaks in livestock populations. Providing financial support and risk-sharing mechanisms mitigate economic losses and encourage proactive disease management practices. Establish data-sharing mechanisms and surveillance networks that facilitate real-time exchange of information on disease outbreaks, epidemiological trends, and economic impacts.

Impact of Dietary Factors on Metabolic Disorders in Animals: A Case of Uganda

2024-04-23T17:51:51+03:00

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate impact of dietary factors on metabolic disorders in Animals in Uganda

Findings: The study found that metabolic disorders such as obesity, insulin resistance, and fatty liver syndrome are prevalent among various livestock species in Uganda. The role of dietary components, including energy content, nutrient composition, and the presence of anti-nutritional factors, in contributing to the development and severity of these disorders cannot be understated. Moreover, socio-economic and environmental factors such as limited access to quality forage and the effects of climate change exacerbate the situation, posing additional challenges to maintaining optimal metabolic health in Ugandan livestock

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Nutritional Balancing Theory & Homeorhetic Regulation Theory may be used to anchor future studies on Impact of dietary factors on metabolic disorders in Animals in Uganda. Implement evidence-based dietary interventions tailored to the specific needs of different livestock species in Uganda. These interventions should aim to optimize nutrient composition, balance energy intake, and minimize the presence of anti-nutritional factors in animal feed. Promote the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices that enhance access to quality forage and mitigate the impact of climate change on animal nutrition. This may include strategies such as agroforestry, rotational grazing, and the cultivation of drought-resistant forage crops. Develop and enforce regulations governing the composition and labeling of animal feed in Uganda to ensure the quality and safety of feed ingredients. These regulations should include guidelines for the appropriate use of supplements, additives, and feed additives to minimize the risk of metabolic disorders in animals.

Long-Term Effects of Assisted Reproductive Technologies on the Health and Productivity of Animals in Ethiopia

2024-04-24T12:29:11+03:00

Purpose: The aim of the study was to long-term effects of assisted reproductive technologies on the health and productivity of animals in Ethiopia.

Findings: The study found that the long-term effects of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) on the health and productivity of animals in Ethiopia present both opportunities and challenges. ARTs have the potential to improve livestock breeding programs, enhance genetic diversity, and increase productivity, their implementation requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure sustainable outcomes. While these technologies offer the possibility of overcoming reproductive challenges and genetic limitations, they may also pose risks such as increased rates of reproductive disorders, stress associated with handling and manipulation, and potential transmission of infectious diseases. Therefore, ongoing monitoring and evaluation of animal health and welfare are essential to mitigate any adverse effects and ensure the ethical use of ARTs in livestock production systems.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Life course theory & epigenetic theory may be used to anchor future studies on long-term effects of assisted reproductive technologies on the health and productivity of animals in Ethiopia. Implement rigorous monitoring and evaluation programs to assess the long-term health, welfare, and productivity outcomes of animals produced through ART. Utilize comprehensive datasets to track indicators such as disease incidence, reproductive performance, growth rates, and longevity over multiple generations. Develop evidence-based guidelines and regulations governing the ethical and responsible use of ART in animal breeding programs. Establish standards for the welfare, monitoring, and management of animals produced through reproductive technologies to ensure compliance with ethical principles and animal welfare standards.