Role of Camels in Transmission of Brucella Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus to Humans in Kenya
Abstract
While we have some understanding of the level of risk and transmission of zoonotic pathogens from cattle, sheep, and goats, there is minimal knowledge of the burden of zoonotic pathogens in camels and their role in transmission to humans. We will begin to address this gap by investigating the role of camels in transmitting the endemic Brucella spp and recently emergent Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) to humans. We hypothesize that camels have a high burden of Brucella and MERS-CoV and serve as the primary source of infection to humans. To investigate this, we will conduct a longitudinal cohort study among camels, other livestock, and humans in Kajiado and Marsabit counties. We will undertake a contact network study related to brucellosis and MERS-CoV transmission, conduct genomic characterization of the pathogens, and develop an infectious disease model to determine the role of camels and other livestock in brucellosis transmission. We will also undertake bio risk management training within the project areas. Our overall goal is to protect human health by determining the transmission dynamics of these pathogens and the key intervention nodes for brucellosis control in Kenya.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Oct 13, 2021
- Source ID
- HDTRA12110041
Entities
People
- Eric Osoro
Organizations
- Defense Threat Reduction Agency
- Washington State University