To reduce especially dangerous pathogen (EDP) threats in northern Kenya, we will evaluate three vector-borne pathogens across four counties and build local capacity to reduce the security risks they present. We will evaluate epidemiological hypotheses related to Rift Valley fever virus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, and Francisella tularensis (Ft), pathogens we suspect are endemic in northern Kenya and likely pose current and future threats to lives and livelihoods in this fragile region. Using a cross-sectional design, we will test blood samples from humans, livestock, and wildlife to evaluate the presence of and exposure to these EDPs.
In-country laboratories will test these samples using molecular and serological methods. Combined with administration of questionnaires examining behavioral risk factors and vector sampling, this approach will allow us to test hypotheses related to husbandry practices, live-animal value chains, and ecological factors that we suspect are responsible for variation in exposure.
Integrating new data with existing and forecasted data from other sources, including ongoing DTRA-funded research in the region, we will develop spatiotemporal models that explain and predict risk based on location, behavior, and ecological contexts. Our interdisciplinary approach with Kenyan partners will: 1) enable testing of hypotheses related to pathogen presence, distribution, and epidemiology; 2) elucidate burden of disease across animal management practices and distinct geographic zones; 3) foster training of human and animal health professionals, laboratory
personnel, and research scientists in northern Kenya to detect and report EDPs; and 4) result in a formal policy framework for surveillance and threat reduction for vector-borne diseases in Kenya.
This effort will mitigate vector-borne disease (VBD) threats in Kenya by advancing Kenyan capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to VBD outbreaks through improved surveillance, detection, and control measures.