We use cookies on our website. Some are necessary for the operation of the website. You can also allow cookies for statistical purposes. You can adjust the data protection settings or agree to all cookies directly.
Data Protection Declaration
Imprint
Epidemiological study of brucellosis in human and animal populations in Kenya
Project
Project code: BfR-BIOS-08-1322-709
Contract period: 01.01.2018
- 31.12.2019
Purpose of research: Experimental development
Brucellosis is a common bacterial zoonosis caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella. In endemic areas, the disease is responsible for high morbidity in humans and declining productivity of farm animals, which may lead to significant economic losses. The World Health Organization classifies brucellosis as neglected zoonosis, which is highly prevalent in low-income countries of the tropics and subtropics and affects mostly poorer communities. The disease has hardly been researched in Kenya so far. In the epidemiological studies published to date, mainly serological methods were used to detect brucellosis in animals and humans. Molecular methods are rarely applied which is why the phylogenetic diversity of the pathogen in Kenya remains unclear. In addition, molecular investigations help to better understand the characteristics of the pathogen (eg virulence factors) and possible transmission pathways. The main objectives of our study are to determine the seroprevalence and incidence rate of brucellosis in livestock, to investigate the causes of fever of unknown origin in non-malaria patients, and to generate complete genome sequences of isolates to get an idea of the Brucella species spread in Kenya and their virulence factors.
Section overview
Subjects
- Animal health
- Biotechnology
- Toxicology
