Zoonotic Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Frequent animal–human interactions in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) pose an increased risk for the transmission of zoonotic diseases. While there are sporadic reports of zoonotic diseases outbreaks in SSA, a synthetic overview is necessary to better understand how the sub-region is impacted by these pathologies. We conducted a systematic review of zoonotic diseases studies conducted in SSA between 2000 and 2022. Quantitative reports including case reports/series from countries spanning West, Central, East, and Southern SSA and that provided empirical data on the occurrence of zoonotic diseases in humans with documented evidence of animal origin were eligible for inclusion. The 55 eligible articles provided 82 reports of zoonotic diseases for a total of 28,934 human cases (pooled attack rate: 54.4 per 1000) and 1182 deaths (pooled fatality rate: 345.4 per 1000). Only 31 (37.8%) of the studies were conducted during ongoing outbreaks. We identified the zoonotic diseases in SSA with the highest attack rates (rickettsiosis, toxoplasmosis, Q-fever) and CFR (Marburg, Ebola, leptospirosis), which should be prioritized for surveillance and response preparedness. Addressing the threat of zoonotic diseases in SSA requires the strengthening of health systems and implementation of a one health approach. Importantly, research should be encouraged during ongoing epidemics to fortify immediate response strategies and work toward preventing future outbreaks.