The ecological niche of Emergomyces africanus (formerly Emmonsia species), a dimorphic fungus that causes an AIDS-related mycosis in South Africa, is unknown. We hypothesized that natural infection with E. africanus occurs in wild small mammals. Using molecular detection with primers specific for E. africanus, we examined 1402 DNA samples from 26 species of mole-rats, rodents, and insectivores trapped in South Africa that included 1324 lung, 37 kidney, and 41 liver specimens. DNA of E. africanus was not detected in any animals. We conclude that natural infection of wild small mammals in South Africa with E. africanus has not been proven.
and duikers, in areas where EBOV is present was assessed as low. For domestic animals in these areas, such as pigs and dogs, the likelihood was assessed as very low. The likelihood of EBOV introduction into non-infected countries through trade, handling and consumption of wild meat was also assessed as very low. Given limited availability of surveillance or field study data, the level of uncertainty in the assessment remains high. Conclusion: Investigations of historic human outbreaks suggest that EBOV is initially introduced into human populations through contact with infected wild mammals or their meat. However, in line with the assessed low likelihood, this is considered a rare event. The public health impact of spillover, when occurring, is however devastating due to the huge consequences that human outbreaks entail. The risk assessment helped consolidating current knowledge on EBOV in animals and highlighted outstanding knowledge gaps, including EBOV survival in the environment, susceptibility of animal species in field settings, and information on wild meat trade movements.
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