Marburg virus (MARV) is the primary cause of Marburg virus disease (MVD), a severe hemorrhagic fever with a high case-fatality rate. The first reported MVD outbreak in Tanzania occurred in 2023, followed by a second outbreak in 2025, both within the Kagera region. During those MVD outbreaks, 174 suspected cases were identified; of those, 10 were laboratory confirmed. After complete genome assembly and bioinformatic analyses, we found the MARV strains of the 2023 and 2025 outbreaks to be closely re lated and clustered with MARV strains that caused outbreaks in Rwanda (2024) and Uganda (2014). The sequences from both MVD outbreaks in Tanzania showed >99.71% nucleotide identity, suggesting a possible single spillover event followed by limited human-to-human virus transmission. Further ecologic studies are essential to identify potential spillover events, but our findings indicate that closely related MARV strains circulate in Kagera, Tanzania, posing a risk for future outbreak recurrence.

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly lethal hemorrhagic disease of domestic pigs and Eurasian wild boars, caused by ASF virus (ASFV). In Africa, ASFV is maintained in a sylvatic cycle involving wild suids, primarily warthogs (Phacocherus africanus) and Ornithodoros ticks. Despite ASF outbreaks in Tanzania, the role of the sylvatic cycle in areas with high wildlife-livestock interactions remains understudied. This study aimed to detect and characterize ASFV in Ornithodoros ticks from warthog burrows in the Serengeti ecosystem. Soft ticks were collected from warthog burrows and screened for ASFV using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). A total of 1,003 Ornithodoros ticks were collected from 25 burrows and qPCR detected ASFV in ticks from 9 burrows. Conventional PCR targeting the ASFV B646L (p72) gene, intergenic region (IGR) between I73R and I329L genes, and the central variable region (CVR) of the B602L gene was conducted in positive samples. The amplicons were sequenced and used for phylogenetic analysis. Phylogenetic analysis of the nucleotide sequences of B646L (p72) gene showed that the identified ASFV strains clustered within genotype X, which has been previously associated with outbreaks in domestic pigs in Tanzania and neighboring countries. Analysis of the IGR and the CVR of the B602L gene confirmed the high genetic similarity between the detected strains and those linked to previous ASF outbreaks in Tanzania and neighboring countries. The findings of this study highlight the need to prevent virus spillover from the sylvatic cycle for efficient control of the ASF in Tanzania.

Globally, 24 measles virus genotypes have been detected, and these genotypes have been classified into eight clades based on 450 nucleotides of the C-terminal region of the nucleoprotein gene. Genotype B3 is predominant in Africa, but there are limited data from Tanzania since the introduction of the second dose of measles-containing vaccine in 2014. A total of 129 nasopharyngeal samples and corresponding sera were collected during measles outbreaks between 2022 and 2024. Viral RNA was extracted from nasopharyngeal swabs prior to RT-qPCR and sequencing of a 450-nucleotide segment of the nucleoprotein (N) gene. Out of 129 nasopharyngeal samples, 73 (56%) were successfully amplified and identified as endemic measles virus genotype B3. Nine distinct sequence identifiers were detected, with seven reported for the first time in the MeaNS database. All the Tanzanian B3 sequences were closely related and clustered with genotype B3, similar to those reported from Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, and South Africa. On multivariate analysis, only inpatient admission status (p = 0.014) and positive measles IgM (p = 0.003) were found to be associated with positive measles RT-qPCR. Our results indicate that genotype B3 remains endemic in Tanzania and is closely related to other genotype B3 reported globally, indicating its high stability and transmissibility.

The genetic diversity and epidemiological characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 lineages in Tanzania have not yet been fully explored, despite their critical impact on public health. We conducted a comprehensive genomic analysis of 80 sequences derived from 90 samples collected between November 2022 and July 2023 from multiple regions in Tanzania. Our findings reveal a complex landscape of 7 Omicron clades, with clades 22 F (XBB*) and 22E (BQ.1) emerging as the predominant variants, comprising 56.3

Rotavirus A (RVA) remains a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in infants and young children globally. In Tanzania, RVA accounts for over 36% diarrhea related deaths and one-third hospitalizations in children. Despite the introduction of the Rotarix® vaccine in 2013, rotavirus-associated morbidity remains high particularly in areas with poor sanitation. This cross-sectional study aimed to detect and characterize rotavirus in samples collected from three wastewater treatment plants in Morogoro, Tanzania to monitor RVA circulation. A total of 189 grab samples were collected weekly between November 2024 and February 2025. Samples were pooled by site, yielding 93 pooled samples, and processed for RVA detection using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) targeting VP4 and VP7 genes, followed by Sanger sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. RVA was detected in 8.6% (n=93) of the pooled samples: 16.1% in Mafisa, 9.7% in Mzumbe, and 0% in Magadu (p=0.074). Genotyping identified G3 and P [8] as predominant RVA genotypes, clustering within lineage III and showing ≥97.5% nucleotide identity with known RVA strains. This study confirms the presence of rotavirus A G3P [8] genotypes in wastewater influent in Morogoro, Tanzania. The study highlights the utility of wastewater surveillance as a complementary tool for monitoring rotavirus circulation.

Background: The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to different types of cancer, with cervical cancer as the most common HPV-related cancer. One of the most efficient strategies for control is vaccination against HPV infection in pre-adolescent girls. Tanzania introduced a two-dose vaccination schedule for girls from 9 to 14 years of age. However, ongoing studies have shown that a single-dose schedule may be efficient to prevent HPV infection and related morbidities with a relatively low cost. Therefore, this review aimed to assess if a single-dose HPV Gardasil® (quadrivalent) vaccine can be recommended to adolescent girls aged 9-14 years old in Tanzania and its cost and programmatical implication. Methods: The Tanzania Immunization Technical Advisory Group (TITAG) held its meeting in February 2023 in Mwanza and used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system to evaluate available evidence regarding safety, efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and programmatic implications of introducing a single-dose HPV Gardasil® (quadrivalent) vaccine in the target group. Results and recommendations: Available evidence assessed and demonstrated that a single-dose HPV Gardasil® (quadrivalent) vaccine is safe and effective in preventing HPV infection and is cost-effective compared to multiple dose schedules. Therefore, TITAG recommended that a single-dose HPV Gardasil® (quadrivalent) vaccine schedule should be introduced in Tanzania. In addition, continuous surveillance for HPV serotypes and related cancer incidence should be closely monitored..

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease of public health and economic importance worldwide. A cross-sectional study using simple random and purposive sampling techniques was conducted from May 2024 to October 2024 in agro-pastoral areas of Mvomero district, Morogoro Region. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of brucellosis, associated risk factors, and characterize the circulating Brucella spp., in livestock and humans. A total of 918 serum samples were collected from Mvomero district, comprising cattle (n = 339), sheep (n = 164), goats (n = 303), and humans (n = 112). Animal samples were obtained from 18 herds with mixed livestock species, while human samples were collected from four health facilities. All samples were screened for Brucella-specific antibodies using the Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT), and positive samples were subjected to competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA). Genomic DNA was extracted from the heparin-coated blood samples corresponding to the same samples that tested positive by c-ELISA for confirmation by using real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). A herd was considered Brucella seropositive if at least one animal tested positive on c-ELISA. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on potential individual and herd-level risk factors. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out using a backward elimination procedure to identify potential risk factors, following a univariate analysis, using a p-value cut-off of 0.25 from the univariable analysis to select candidate variables for a multivariable model. At the individual level, screening by RBPT revealed seropositivity rates of 9.1

Changes in natural habitats affect the population density of small mammals, which in turn influences ectoparasite populations. This study explores how human-induced habitat modifications impact flea infestations of non-volant small mammals considering seasonal and agroecological variations. A cross-sectional study focused on two wildlife-human interfaces in the Iringa and Morogoro regions, Tanzania. Small mammals were captured using Sherman®, Havahart, and wire-cage live traps. Fleas were extracted from the animals' fur with a stiff brush and preserved in 70% alcohol. Flea identification was performed morphologically by using standard guidelines and confirmed by sequencing the mtDNA segment of the cox2 gene. Statistical analyses were performed using Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial (ZINB) and Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) to examine variations in flea infestations across different host species, habitat types, seasons, and agroecological zones. Species diversity of small mammals decreased with increasing habitat modification (bush > farm > peridomestic). The most common rat fleas (Xenopsylla cheopis, Xenopsylla brasiliensis), together with chicken flea (Echidnophaga gallinacea) and cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), were identified. Flea infestation loads on small mammals increased along the habitat modification gradient (bush < farm < peridomestic). The highest prevalence and mean intensity of infestation were observed in Aethomys spp. at 38.5% (95% CI: 33.7- 43.7) and 2.95 (95% CI: 2.18 - 3.72, SE: 0.366), respectively. Despite Mastomys natalensis being the most abundant, they had a lower prevalence of flea infestation. Flea infestations were significantly higher during the rainy season than the dry season (p-value = 0.003) and more prevalent in peridomestic habitats than others (p-value = 0.014). Thus, habitat modification directly impacts flea infestation loads and small mammal species' diversity, potentially implicating zoonotic disease transmission. This highlights the urgent need for integrated wildlife conservation and public health management approaches in Tanzania.

Background: In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection associated complications caused around 1.1millions deaths worldwide, translating into 14 deaths per 100,000 population. Vaccination for HBV is the most cost-effective intervention against HBV infection. WHO recommends all infants to receive the hepatitis B birth-dose (HepB-BD) vaccine against HBV infection as early as possible (preferably within 24 hours after birth) and a complete childhood vaccine series for maximum protection against the infection. However, Tanzania is yet to introduce the HepB-BD vaccine which exposes newborns to the risk of mother-to-child transmission and early childhood infections. Methods: The Tanzania Immunization Technical Advisory Group (TITAG) held its meeting in May 2023 to review available evidence regarding safety, efficacy, cost effectiveness, and the programmatic implications of introducing the HepB-BD vaccine in the routine childhood vaccination schedule. Results and recommendation: High-quality evidence available has clearly demonstrated that the HBV monovalent HepB-BD vaccine has acceptable safety profile, highly efficacious in prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) and early childhood HBV infections, and highly cost-effective. TITAG recommended that the universal HepB-BD vaccine be introduced in routine vaccination in Tanzania, with maximum leverage on the existing immunization structures, coupled with routine surveillance for safety and effectiveness of the vaccines.

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting sheep and goats, causing substantial economic losses in endemic countries. In the Savannah district of Côte d'Ivoire, knowledge of the genetic diversity and molecular epidemiology of the PPR virus (PPRV) remains limited. This study investigated the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of PPRV circulating in this region using whole-genome sequencing (WGS). A cross-sectional survey was conducted between September and December 2023. Nasal swabs collected from sheep and goats were screened for PPRV ribonucleic acid (RNA) using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Samples with low quantification cycle (Cq) values of less than 35 and successful multiplex PCR amplification profiles were selected for sequencing using the Oxford Nanopore MinION platform. Near-complete consensus genomes were generated through reference-based assembly and analysed alongside representative strains from all recognised PPRV lineages. Of the 355 samples analysed, 25 (7.0%) tested positive for PPRV RNA, with positive detections in all three surveyed regions (Poro, Tchologo and Bagoué). The four samples with the lowest Cq values, originating from all three administrative regions, were successfully sequenced, generating genomes that covered 82.0%-86.2% of the reference genome at a depth of ≥ 10 ×. The missing regions were mainly located at the 5' and 3' genomic termini, as well as in limited internal regions associated with amplicon dropout. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all four sequences belonged to lineage IV and exhibited high nucleotide similarity (98.1%-99.9%). The Ivorian strains clustered with recent lineage IV viruses from West, North and Central Africa, whereas historical Ivorian lineages I and II formed distinct clades. These findings confirm the predominance of lineage IV in northern Côte d'Ivoire and provide baseline genomic data to support molecular epidemiological surveillance in the region.

Background Interruption of measles virus transmission requires sustained population immunity of ≥95%. This study assessed measles immunoglobulin G (IgG) seropositivity and antibody levels among measles IgM-negative children during the 2022–2024 measles outbreaks in Tanzania. Methods A total of 526 measles IgM-negative samples were analyzed using a quantitative measles IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Seropositivity was defined as an IgG concentration ≥200 mIU/mL. Data were analyzed using STATA version 15. Results Overall measles IgG seropositivity rate was 82.7% (95% CI: 79.4–85.9). Seropositivity was similar among children who received two doses of measles-containing vaccine (MCV) (83.6%) and those who received one dose (82.1%). Seropositivity rates did not differ significantly across age groups (1–<2 years: 83.7%, 2–4 years: 83.8%, 5–9 years: 78.1%, and 10–14 years: 83.3%; p = 0.632). However, children who received two MCV doses had significantly higher geometric mean concentrations (GMCs) of measles IgG antibodies than those who received one dose (637.8 mIU/mL [95% CI: 582.6–698.4] vs. 538.4 mIU/mL [95% CI: 506.0–571.8]; p = 0.002). GMCs were higher among children vaccinated at 9 months than among those vaccinated later (616.0 mIU/mL [95% CI: 570.8–665.6] vs. 539.0 mIU/mL [95% CI: 503.4–577.2]; p = 0.008). Samples collected during the 2022 outbreak were independently associated with IgG seronegativity (aOR = 2.56, p = 0.002). Conclusion IgG seropositivity remained below the ≥95% herd immunity threshold, indicating persistent immunity gaps among measles IgM negative children investigated during measles outbreaks. Strengthening timely uptake of two MCV doses is essential to interrupt measles transmission.

Background:Despite the introduction of the two-dose measles-containing vaccine (MCV2) in 2014, measles remains a persistent public health problem in Tanzania, characterized by recurrent outbreaks and shifting epidemiological patterns. Understanding the epidemiology of measles in the country is therefore essential to inform context-specific elimination strategies. Methods:During the 2023 and 2024 measles outbreaks, data and samples from the National Measles Epidemiological Surveillance System were used. Sera were processed to detect specific Measles Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with key stakeholders and caregivers, respectively, to explore factors associated with measles outbreaks. Results:A total of 17,902 suspected measles cases were enrolled; of these, 11,576 (64.7%) were confirmed measles cases. The overall incidence rate declined markedly from 163.9 cases per 1,000,000 population in 2023 to 15.4 cases per 1,000,000 population in 2024, with the highest incidence occurring among children aged <1 year. Of the total confirmed measles cases, 10,239 (57.2%), 1,311 (7.3%), and 26 (0.15%) were epi-linked, laboratory-confirmed, and clinically compatible, respectively. Higher proportions of confirmed measles cases were observed among children aged >5 years and infants <9 months, compared with children aged 12-59 months (p < 0.001). A significantly high proportion of cases were enrolled from rural areas and were zero dose. Of 7,637 suspected measles cases tested, measles IgM antibodies were detected in 1,311 (17.2%) cases, with significantly more cases in 2023 than in 2024. Factors that were significantly associated with laboratory-confirmed measles cases in multivariate analysis were age groups 5 + years, under-vaccinated/unvaccinated, and unknown vaccination status. The estimated effectiveness of two doses in preventing laboratory-confirmed measles cases during the 2023 and 2024 outbreaks was 80.7%. Under-vaccinated and unvaccinated due to unavailability of vaccination services, stockouts, and missed opportunities were highlighted by stakeholders as contributing factors to measles outbreaks. Conclusion:The study revealed that the vast majority of confirmed cases occurred among inadequately immunized children, with limited access to vaccination services, driven by multiple underlying factors, emerging as a key contributor to measles outbreaks. These findings highlight the importance of implementing context-specific strategies to close immunity gaps.

Newcastle disease (ND) virus (NDV) infection ranks among the most important poultry diseases globally. In Nigeria, ND remains a persistent menace to poultry production, marked by recurrent outbreaks. However, there is limited understanding of the evolutionary changes and transmission dynamics of the virus in the region. A molecular epidemiological study was conducted to elucidate the evolutionary and transmission patterns of NDV in Nigeria. Phylogenetic analysis of seven NDV isolates from cases recorded between 2023 and 2024 in four Northeastern states exhibited genetic diversity and formed distinct clusters that correspond to the prevailing subgenotype XIV.2. The maximum clade credibility (MCC) tree suggests sustained local circulation of the dominant NDV lineage, likely preceded by an international introduction from Southeast Asia. The fusion genes of the Nigerian genotype XIV and another important genotype XVII are mainly under negative selection, but codons 516 (XIV) and 114 (XVII) consistently show positive selection. The Nextstrain analysis reveals ongoing local evolution and genetic diversity of NDV in West Africa, and Central Nigeria acting as a key transmission hub, with evidence of reintroductions from neighboring countries. These findings have implications for NDV control and prevention strategies in Nigeria, highlighting the need for enhanced NDV surveillance, transboundary transmission control, and development of a vaccine tailored to the circulating NDV genotypes. The study also contributes to the understanding of regional spread pattern of NDV and informs evidence-based policies for mitigating the impact of the disease on poultry production.

Chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), is fatal to some amphibian species, whereas others can carry the pathogen without developing disease. Among the vulnerable species is the Kihansi Spray Toad, Nectophrynoides asperginis, endemic to the Kihansi Gorge spray wetlands in Tanzania's Udzungwa Mountains. By 2009, chytridiomycosis had driven N. asperginis to extinction in the wild, though it survives in captivity. Re-introduction efforts have faced difficulties, underlining the importance of understanding Bd's prevalence in the wild to guide re-introduction programs. Twenty years after Bd was first detected in Tanzania's Kihansi Gorge spray wetlands, we re-evaluated its prevalence and examined whether the pathogen was responsible for the 98% mortality observed among the 1000 captive-bred N. asperginis released there in February 2022. In December 2022, time-constrained surveys were conducted across three spray wetlands covering N. asperginis habitat. Amphibians were skin-swabbed following a protocol developed by the University of California, resulting in two sets of 44 samples from seven species. These samples were analyzed for Bd presence using conventional and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, followed by nucleotide sequencing of PCR products. Bd was detected in 32% of samples, representing four out of the seven species: Arthroleptides yakusini (14%), N. asperginis (9%), Ptychadena anchietae (7%), and Hyperolius substriatus (2%). Whereas N. asperginis was severely affected, the other species did not show signs of the disease. The other three species, namely, Hyperolius mitchelli, Afrixalus fornasinii, and Arthroleptis xenodactyloides, were not detected with Bd. A lineage-specific qPCR diagnostic test confirmed Bd-CAPE as the cause of the mass deaths of the released toads. The continuing presence of Bd-CAPE in the spray wetlands remains a barrier to the successful re-introduction of N. asperginis, necessitating further experimentation to develop strategies for coexistence.

BACKGROUND:The growing need for availability of new vaccines, alongside constrained financial and health system resources, necessitates transparent and evidence-based prioritization. METHODS:A multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) approach was applied by the Tanzania Immunization Technical Advisory Group (TITAG) to prioritize new vaccine introductions for 2026-2030. The World Health Organization's New Vaccine Introduction Prioritization and Sequencing Tool (NVI-PST) was adapted to the Tanzanian context. From thirteen candidate vaccines, seven were shortlisted: hepatitis B birth dose, hepatitis B (adult), malaria, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), meningococcal (Men5), maternal respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV). Thirteen criteria across importance (n = 9) and feasibility (n = 4) domains were applied. Evidence was compiled and vaccines were scored through a structured, participatory process. RESULTS:Hepatitis B birth dose ranked highest (combined score 1.9), followed by hepatitis B (adult) vaccine (3.0). Malaria and maternal RSV vaccines were moderate priorities (4.2), while MMR (4.4), Men5 (4.5), and TCV (5.2) ranked lowest. Key system constraints identified included limited cold chain capacity, financing uncertainties, cost of a vaccine and gaps in local epidemiological and economic data. CONCLUSION:The application of MCDA through the NVI-PST provided a transparent, systematic, and context-specific framework for prioritizing new vaccine introductions in Tanzania. The findings support phased introduction of hepatitis B vaccines while highlighting the need for strengthened surveillance, sustainable financing, and health system capacity to enable future vaccine adoption. This approach offers a practical model for other resource-constrained settings seeking to optimize immunization decision-making.

Objectives: Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting sheep and goats, with significant socio-economic consequences. The disease is endemic in the Ivory Coast; molecular data on circulating strains, particularly in the northern Savannah district, remain limited. This study aimed to characterize the PPR virus (PPRV) strains circulating among sheep and goats in this area. Materials and Methods: A total of 355 nasal swabs were collected from unvaccinated small ruminants, regardless of clinical status, across three regions of the Savannah district (Poro, Tchologo, and Bagoué). Viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) was extracted and screened using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) targeting the nucleoprotein (N) gene of PPRV, followed by conventional RT-PCR (RT-cPCR). Positive amplicons were sequenced using the Sanger method, and phylogenetic analysis was performed with PhyML and edited in MEGA X software. Results: Out of 355 samples analyzed, 25 (7%) tested positive by RT-qPCR, and 17 of these were amplified by RT-cPCR for nucleotide sequencing. Ten sequences were of sufficient quality for phylogenetic analysis. All sequences described in this study clustered within lineage IV of PPRV and shared high nucleotide identity (96-98%) with previously described West African PPRV strains. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed two distinct sub-clusters, suggesting possible multiple viral introductions, likely facilitated by uncontrolled transboundary livestock movements. Conclusions: This study provides the first molecular evidence of PPRV circulation in the Savannah district, confirming the dominance of lineage IV. The findings underscore the need for enhanced molecular surveillance and cross-border collaboration to inform regional vaccination and eradication efforts.

Background: Rotavirus gastroenteritis causes most diarrheal deaths, with 95% of cases occurring in low-income countries. The implementation of Rotarix™ vaccine in 2013 in Tanzania, resulted in a significant decrease of Rotavirus positivity and hospitalization among children under 5 years of age. Due to a decrease in the supply of Rotarix™, it was necessary to switch to ROTAVAC 5D® vaccine to ensure a sustained vaccination supply and avoid associated morbidity and mortality as result of the shortage. Methods: The Tanzania Immunization Technical Advisory Group (TITAG) held its 5th meeting from 21st to 25th February 2022 in Dodoma, during which it reviewed the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach to assess the potential switch from RotarixTM to ROTAVAC 5D®. Results: ROTAVAC 5D® was found to be safe and efficacious with similar margins to other WHO prequalified Rotavirus vaccines including Rotarix™. Although ROTAVAC 5D® is based on human G9P [11] Rotavirus 116E strain, the vaccine offers heterotypic (cross) protection against multiple Rotavirus strains. Taking into consideration of other factors, the costs benefit analysis for the Rotavirus Vaccines (Rotarix™ and ROTAVAC 5D®) proved to be cost-effective relative to no vaccination. The total incremental economic costs per child for Rotarix™ was found to be the least costly and cost-effective compared to ROTAVAC 5D®, but the differences were small and subject to change with minor adjustments to uncertain input variables. Conclusions and Recommendations: The high-quality evidence available has clearly demonstrated that ROTAVAC 5D® (liquid, 5 doses vial) was comparable to ROTARIX™ in terms of safety, efficacy, cross-protection to wild Rotavirus, and cost-effectiveness. Hence, the TITAG recommended the use of ROTAVAC 5D® a five-dose vial (liquid) in Tanzania. Continuous surveillance is crucial for obtaining data on vaccine effectiveness, Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFIs) including intussusception rates, as recommended by WHO, to make timely decisions regarding ROTAVAC 5D® vaccine use.

Brucellosis is a neglected zoonotic disease in most developing countries, including South Sudan. Precise identification of Brucella species is crucial for addressing public health and epidemiological concerns associated with brucellosis. The study aimed to identify Brucella species using real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) from seropositive samples that were acquired from an earlier investigation. A total of 143 genomic DNA samples were extracted from brucellosis Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) seropositive samples from humans (n = 7), cattle (n = 103) and goats (n = 33). The samples were collected from Terekeka and Juba counties, Central Equatoria State (CES), South Sudan. The qPCR targeting the Brucella-specific IS711 insertion gene at the genus level was performed. Samples with a cycle threshold (Ct) of ≤ 35 were considered positive and subjected to further Brucella speciation assays. Out of 143 DNA samples tested for genus-specific Brucella, 15 (10.5%) were positive including 4 (2.8%) from humans, 10 (6.9%) from cattle, and 1 (0.7%) from goats. Brucella abortus was identified in 5 (33.3%) of the positive samples at the genus level. The overall individual species infection rates with B. abortus were 6.6% (1/15) in humans, 20% (3/15) in cattle, and 6.6% (1/15) in goats. There was no B. melitensis detected in this study. This study identified B. abortus in cattle, goats and humans in CES, South Sudan. The findings suggest that cattle are probably the primary reservoirs for transmission of B. abortus, with infections occurring in goats and humans primarily resulting from cattle spillover.

African swine fever (ASF) is a hemorrhagic disease of domestic pigs and wild boars. The ASF virus (ASFV), a sole member of the family Asfarviridae and genus Asfivirus, causes this devastating disease. In sub-Saharan Africa, ASFV is maintained through three interlinked cycles: the domestic cycle, the pig-tick cycle, and the sylvatic cycle, which collectively sustain its endemic presence in the region. Interaction between wild and domestic pigs at livestock-wildlife interfaces, particularly in protected areas, poses a significant threat to smallholder farmers. This study aimed to investigate the socioeconomic impact and identify potential risk factors associated with ASF in Serengeti National Park's (SNP's) wildlife management area (WMA) in Tanzania. A cross-sectional study involving 110 domestic pig-keeping households in the five villages of SNP's WMA was carried out. A semistructured questionnaire was used to collect data on risk factors and socioeconomic impact associated with ASF from consenting smallholder farmers. Additionally, the observational approach was used to assess pig production's facilities, behaviors and practices involved in domestic pig production and management. Tissue samples including spleen, lymph nodes, and kidney were also collected from dead domestic pigs belonging to two villages, Nattambiso and Robanda, to confirm the existence of the virus in the study area by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Descriptive statistics, univariable, and multivariable logistic analyses were performed to determine risk factors associated with ASF occurrence between October 2021 and April 2022 in the study area. A total of 12 ASF outbreaks affecting 1198 cases that led to 969 domestic pig deaths were reported. The ASFV was confirmed to be positive in all domestic pigs from which tissue samples were collected in the included villages. The case fatality rates (CFRs) from the reported previous ASF incidence varied from 77.5% to 85.2% with an overall CFR of 80.8%. A sum of 163,300,000 Tanzanian Shillings (approximately equivalent to 70,085 USD) loss was recorded in the studied WMA. The major risk factors that correlated with ASF occurrence were encountered ASF previously (odds ratio [OR] = 13.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.79-87.28), selling pig products with ASF before (OR = 9.43, CI = 1.76-70.02), whilst taking no risk action to prevent loss (OR = 0.14, CI = 0.03-0.63) and swill treatment (OR = 0.10, CI = 0.01-0.54) negatively correlated with ASF. Improving awareness on farm-level biosecurity, husbandry, and management practices is vital to preventing ASF outbreaks and wildlife spillover, safeguarding livestock health, and promoting economic stability in wildlife-livestock-human interfaces.