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Review Article
Prevalence and Characteristics of Pathogenic Bacteria in Fresh Beef, Goat, Poultry, Pork and Sheep Meat in West Africa: A Systematic Review
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2025
Pages:
119-124
Received:
31 July 2025
Accepted:
19 August 2025
Published:
3 September 2025
Abstract: Microbiological safety associated with fresh meat is growing a public health concern in West Africa, where meat consumption is on the rise, but regulatory systems are weak or poorly implemented. Many previous investigations have demonstrated that meat is frequently contaminated with foodborne pathogens and some of them are also carrying alarming levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The objective for this systematic review was to estimate the prevalence and AMR of key bacterial pathogens from fresh meat sold in West Africa. A systematic review of literature in three databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar), with peer-reviewed articles from 2010 to 2025 being selected. Analysis was based on 23 studies qualifying inclusion requirements. The information taken included: study design, sampling place, type of meat (beef, chicken, goat, and pork) and species of bacteria, and patterns of resistance. The findings reveal high contamination rates in all meat types, with Campylobacter spp. being particularly prevalent in poultry. Multidrug-resistant strains of E. coli and Salmonella spp. were also frequently reported. Contributing factors include poor hygiene during slaughter and handling, lack of cold chain infrastructure, and widespread, often unregulated, use of antibiotics in animal farming. The presence of AMR pathogens in meat not only threatens food safety but also complicates treatment options for foodborne illnesses. Given the scale and severity of these issues, urgent actions are required. These include the implementation of standardized microbiological monitoring, strict enforcement of hygiene and slaughterhouse regulations, and the development of regional guidelines for antibiotic use in livestock. Public awareness campaigns and training for food handlers should be prioritized, along with investment in infrastructure and surveillance systems. Future research should also focus on evaluating the effectiveness of mitigation strategies and improving country specific data to support policymaking. Adopting a regional “One Health” approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health perspectives is essential for a sustainable and effective response to foodborne microbial threats in West Africa.
Abstract: Microbiological safety associated with fresh meat is growing a public health concern in West Africa, where meat consumption is on the rise, but regulatory systems are weak or poorly implemented. Many previous investigations have demonstrated that meat is frequently contaminated with foodborne pathogens and some of them are also carrying alarming le...
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Research Article
Canine Vaccinal Antibody Remains Stable for 4 Weeks at Simulated Shipping Temperatures
Paige Hamilton
,
Laurie Larson*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2025
Pages:
125-134
Received:
28 July 2025
Accepted:
25 August 2025
Published:
11 September 2025
Abstract: To establish evidence-based shipping requirements for sera submitted to reference laboratories for vaccinal antibody testing, the stability of canine antibody was determined over four weeks at temperatures simulating ground transport conditions. Known positive canine serum samples (n = 22) were tested to determine quantitative antibody titers using two gold-standard serologic assays. Antibody titer against canine parvovirus (CPV-2) via hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay and against canine adenovirus (CAV-1) via serum virus neutralization (SVN) assay. Samples were aliquoted and held at static temperatures: in a refrigerator (6°C), at room temperature (25°C), and in an incubator (36°C) Samples were randomized and repeat tested at weeks 2, 3, and 4. Statistical equivalence was determined using paired two one-sided t-test (TOST), with zone of indifference of ± 1 dilution. For both antibody assays, experimental groups demonstrated statistical equivalence to refrigerated controls through week 4 (p < 0.05 for all comparisons.) These results demonstrate that canine vaccinal antibodies remain stable for four weeks at continuous elevated temperatures that might be encountered during ground shipment. This finding supports the implementation of less restrictive shipping requirements for canine vaccinal antibody testing, potentially reducing costs for veterinary practitioners and pet owners, and ultimately allowing greater access to important diagnostic testing.
Abstract: To establish evidence-based shipping requirements for sera submitted to reference laboratories for vaccinal antibody testing, the stability of canine antibody was determined over four weeks at temperatures simulating ground transport conditions. Known positive canine serum samples (n = 22) were tested to determine quantitative antibody titers using...
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Research Article
Morphobiometric Characteristics of the Arab Zebu in Abeche, Chad
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2025
Pages:
135-143
Received:
13 August 2025
Accepted:
22 August 2025
Published:
26 September 2025
Abstract: The objective of the study was to describe the phenotypic characteristics of Arab Zebu in Abeche city. A longitudinal survey was administered to 26 breeders to take body measurements, and identify the physical characteristics of 112 adult cattle (100 cows and 12 bulls, 4 years and over). The information sought was: the breeder’s profile (name, sex, age, region, ethnicity, marital status, schooling and main activities), the animal descriptions (sex, coat, horns, profile of head, back, and rump, hump and dewlap size, scabbard size in males and the tail length) and some quantitative parameters (live weight, age, length, and width of head, and rump, length of horn, tail and trunk, height at withers, and thoracic circumference). After analysis of the data collected with the XLSTAT software (9.1.6), it appears that the breeders are mostly married men, of Arab ethnic group, uneducated, and practicing the white-coated breeding. Arab cattle are mostly white coated; straight in profile, straight back, flat rump, poorly developed hump and dewlap, long tail and small cupped horns. Males have an average weight of 403 kg and females, 297 kg. The height at the withers is on average 1.16m with 1.22m in males and 1.14m in females. Chest circumference, and live weight are strongly correlated. Studies in-depth on the phenotypic, and genetic characteristics of this breed will make a complete description of all the parameters and establish a suitable barymetry formula.
Abstract: The objective of the study was to describe the phenotypic characteristics of Arab Zebu in Abeche city. A longitudinal survey was administered to 26 breeders to take body measurements, and identify the physical characteristics of 112 adult cattle (100 cows and 12 bulls, 4 years and over). The information sought was: the breeder’s profile (name, sex,...
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Research Article
Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Porcine Cysticercosis in Ngara District, Northwestern Tanzania
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2025
Pages:
144-151
Received:
16 August 2025
Accepted:
9 September 2025
Published:
10 October 2025
Abstract: Porcine cysticercosis (PC), caused by the larval stage of Taenia solium, presents significant public health and economic challenges, particularly in resource-limited regions. This study determined the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of PC transmission in Ngara District, Tanzania. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, involving 342 pigs from 12 villages. Serum samples were analyzed using the cysticercosis antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Ag-ELISA). To assess the risk factors, a semi-structured questionnaire was administered via Kobo Toolbox, along with direct observations. The overall seroprevalence of PC was 13.74%, with significant variation across villages (p<0.05), although no significant differences were observed between pig age groups or sexes (p>0.05). Higher prevalence rates were observed in the villages of Bukiriro, Mumuhamba, Kigina, and Ntobeye. Adult pigs showed a slightly higher prevalence compared to weaners and growers. A total of 114 pig-keeping households were surveyed, and data analysis was performed using R Version 4.4.1, employing Generalized Linear Models (GLM) with a binomial logistic regression approach. The analysis identified several significant risk factors associated with PC seropositivity, including: (1) Source of feed (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.18 - 1.97, p = 0.001), (2) Open defecation (OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.18 - 3.27, p = 0.0005), and (3) Husbandry system (Scavenging/Tethering pigs) (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 0.72 - 2.19, p = 0.0006). Despite existing knowledge on PC transmission and seroprevalence in sub-Saharan Africa, there is a limited understanding of its epidemiology in specific regions like Ngara District. This gap is critical, as localized risk factors and transmission dynamics may differ significantly across regions. This study provides baseline data on the epidemiology of PC in Ngara District, emphasizing the need for targeted intervention strategies to reduce transmission risks in both pig and human populations.
Abstract: Porcine cysticercosis (PC), caused by the larval stage of Taenia solium, presents significant public health and economic challenges, particularly in resource-limited regions. This study determined the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of PC transmission in Ngara District, Tanzania. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, involving 342 pigs...
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