Serological evidence for human exposure to Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis in the villages around Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire

A significant portion of the rural population near Taï National Park (TNP), Côte d’Ivoire, exhibits serological evidence of exposure to Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis (Bcbva), a pathogen linked to wildlife mortality in the park. The study, analyzing sera from 1,386 volunteers, found a 22.37% seroprevalence for protective antigen PA and 10.46% for Bcbva-specific antigen pXO2-60, suggesting human exposure to this untypical anthrax-causing pathogen. While bushmeat contact was common among participants, risk factor analysis did not identify significant predictors of seroprevalence. The findings highlight the potential threat posed by Bcbva to local communities and underscore the need for heightened awareness and further research on its impact in the region.

Dupke, S., Schubert, G., Beudjé, F., Barduhn, A., Pauly, M., Couacy-Hymann, E., Grunow, R., Akoua-Koffi, C., Leendertz, F. H., & Klee, S. R. (2020). Serological evidence for human exposure to Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis in the villages around Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire. PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 14(5), e0008292. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0008292