Epidemiology and effectiveness of interventions for Foot and Mouth Disease in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Foot and mouth disease (FMD) remains endemic in most African countries despite several interventions that have been instituted for its control. This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to elucidate the epidemiology of FMD and evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions for its control in Africa. Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to generate evidence on the epidemiology and effectiveness of interventions for the control of foot and mouth disease in Africa. 113 articles were included in the review. Results The overall pooled seroprevalence of FMD in Africa was 16% at 95% CI (4% − 30%). The subgroup analysis showed the following pooled seroprevalence at region: Central Africa at 38%, 95% CI (33% − 43%); Northern Africa at 31%, 95% CI (8% − 57%); Western Africa at 30%, 95% CI (11% − 50%); Eastern Africa at 22% 95% CI (9% − 37%); and Southern Africa at 2%, 95% CI (0% − 9%). Species level: buffaloes at 71%, 95% CI (8% − 100%); goats at 30%, 95% CI (4% − 61%); sheep at 23%, 95% CI (8% − 40%); cattle at 15%, 95%CI (2% − 31%); pigs at 9%, 95% CI (0% − 26%); and other wildlife at 2% (0% − 36%). Diagnostic level: ELISA at 15%, 95% CI (4% − 29%); several tests at 16%, 95% CI (0% − 44%); BTVIA at 29%, 95% CI (14% − 24%); and PCR at 44%, 95% CI (6% − 84%). LFK index of 4.83 indicated publication bias and a high level of heterogeneity. Quarantine and vaccination are the most used control interventions for FMD. Conclusions FMD is prevalent in most Africa in buffaloes and goats, it is mostly diagnosed by ELISA. The disease is mostly controlled by vaccination and quarantine. This review was limited by inadequate data on the effectiveness of interventions. The findings will guide the control of the disease and the use of the PCPFMD. Further research is recommended on the effectiveness of interventions for control. Systematic review registration: The study review was registered in INPLAYS (INPLAYS2022110039. doi:10.337766).