Understanding Zoonotic Disease Risks Around Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

New study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases

Emerging infectious diseases that jump from animals to humans, known as zoonoses, have become an increasing global health concern. From Ebola viruses to new strains of influenza, outbreaks of these pathogens most frequently occur where people and wildlife come into close contact. One such place is the area surrounding Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a region rich in biodiversity with nearby human populations that depend on the forest for their livelihoods.

A new study, “Assessment of exposure to zoonoses and perceptions of zoonotic transmission surrounding the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda,” explores how local communities understand these disease risks. Researchers conducted focus groups with more than 150 participants in both rural and urban communities around the forest to learn how people perceive the potential for animal-to-human disease transmission and what daily activities might increase their risk.

The findings reveal that awareness of zoonotic disease transmission remains low, even in areas that have experienced previous outbreaks. While some participants, particularly younger people and healthcare workers, recognized that animals can transmit diseases to humans, most did not. Many community members reported consuming or selling meat from animals that appeared sick or had died from unknown causes, often driven by socio-economic hardship. Interestingly, the study found that rural communities demonstrated higher awareness of zoonotic risks than urban populations, challenging assumptions that urban residents may have better access to health information. Across all groups, misconceptions about disease transmission were common, and there was limited understanding of the potential health consequences of high-risk activities involving animals.

The authors emphasize that culturally appropriate education programs are needed to reduce risky behaviors and prevent future spillover events. They also call for further research into how social, economic, and environmental factors shape people’s understanding of disease risk. As the world continues to grapple with emerging disease threats, insights like these are essential for building effective, community-based prevention strategies.

To learn more about this research, read the full article in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases.