PROJECT #1 (2023): Serosurveillance for Marburg virus among livestock and dogs throughout Ghana

PUBLICATION: Serological Evidence of Potential Marburg Virus Circulation in Livestock and Dogs in Ghana. Odoom T, Johnson SAM, Tasiame W, Ziekah MY, Abuh JK, Anderson B, Danso F, Abbiw RK, Nuokpem FY, Allegye-Cudjoe E, Lewis C, Faburay B. Pathogens. 2024 Oct 22;13(11):917.
https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13110917

Subsequent to the first report of Marburg virus (MARV) disease in Ghana in 2022, 3,113 serum samples systematically collected from livestock and dogs, were tested for antibodies to the virus. Overall, MARV antibodies were detected in 20.6% of the animals. The species-specific prevalence was 28.7% in cattle, 21.8% in sheep, 19.5% in goats, 15.3% in dogs and 11.2% in pigs. The findings suggest further investigation into the role of livestock and dogs as potential intermediaries in the circulation of MARV.

PUBLICATION: Johnson SAM, Odoom T, Tasiame W, Anderson B, Terkper C, Abbiw RK, Amoako K, Nyarko AK, Danso F, Abuh J, Ziekah M, Akunzule A, Ahmed GM. Livestock mobility in border towns and markets in Ghana: a retrospective analysis, 2017-2023. Trop Anim Health Prod. 2025 Nov 11;57(8):484.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-025-04641-y

This study reviewed and analyzed a six-year retrospective secondary livestock movement data from key border entry points and a livestock market in Ghana and their distribution by animal, place and time. Most livestock were destined for Accra (63.0%) and the central region of Ghana. Livestock movement occurred fluidly to and through Ghana, as well as to neighboring countries via the northern and southern borders, presenting the potential spread of TADs and zoonotic diseases. A regional approach to disease surveillance is necessary to anticipate and prevent outbreaks of TADs.

PROJECT #2 (2024): Identification of FMD exposure and serotypes, Ghana Manuscript in progress!

PENDING - PROJECT #3 (2026): Molecular and Serological survey of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus, Rift Valley Fever Virus and vectors in livestock and donkeys in Ghana