Description
Mpox virus (MPXV), an emerging zoonotic pathogen, is endemic to Central and West Africa, where human outbreaks are frequent. The recent surge in human cases in and outside of Africa has sparked concerns regarding potential animal reservoirs and transmission sources. While mammals are known to host the virus, uncertainties persist about the main animal reservoirs responsible for cross-species transmission. This study addresses questions surrounding MPXV transmission dynamics.
In African regions such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Côte d'Ivoire (CI), where bushmeat plays a pivotal role as a protein source, rodents like cane rats (Thronomys swinderiasnus) are commonly hunted, traded, and consumed. The risk of zoonotic pathogen transmission remains a critical concern, especially given rodents known association with MPXV.
Our research, conducted in collaboration with local partners in DRC and CI, seeks to comprehensively address the transmission risks of MPXV. Exploring the practices of breeders, traders and consumers, this study aims to elucidate the pathways of MPXV transmission from rodent reservoirs to human populations and aid in the development of targeted strategies to mitigate potential outbreaks.
Objective:
Investigate MPXV infection risks through hunter, consumer, breeder, and trader practices in DRC and CI.
Methods: Employing mixed methods, we used questionnaires, focus group discussions, and interviews to establish socio-demographics, attitudes and consumption practices in 57 households. Thematic analysis identified codes and themes from discussions and interviews and was supported by main factor analysis of the survey data.
Results:
In rural villages in DRC, zoonotic pathogen transmission risk is high, with all family members from age 4 having contact with live, wild rodents. Small mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles are regularly hunted, trapped, and consumed. Animals are prepared and eaten, involving children in gutting and washing. Some rodents are favored and some are used in traditional medicinal treatments. Despite ongoing MPXV and other rodent borne disease oubreaks, there is little knowledge of rodent ecology, and no linkage of rodents or bushmeat with pathogens and disease. In CI, where bushmeat consumption is recognised as a health threat by the authorities, a cane rat breeding program was established. Yearly, new breeders are trained at the national cane rat association center. Private breeders typically sell offspring as breeding stock what is more lucrative than selling the meat. Hence, most bred cane rats don't reach the bushmeat market. Bushmeat is in high demand, with an Ebola-related bushmeat ban reducing private consumption but increasing restaurant customers. Transmission risks in CI include unclear bushmeat sources,and unhygienic rodent meat preparation in restaurants.
Conclusion:
Our research in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Côte d'Ivoire reveals rodent consumption as a significant zoonotic pathogen transmission risk. Strikingly, individuals in our study don't associate diseases with bushmeat consumption despite government warnings. Traditional methods expose men, women, and children to risks, and the cane rat breeding program in Côte d'Ivoire doesn't provide an alternative. Moving forward, establishing links between human cases and bushmeat consumption is crucial for understanding and addressing this public health concern, requiring clarification of epidemiology and enhanced surveillance efforts.
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