Diversity and Distribution of Fungal Infections in Rwanda: High Risk and Gaps in Knowledge, Policy, and Interventions

Summary

This comprehensive review reveals that Rwanda faces significant challenges from fungal infections affecting humans, crops, and food security, yet has very limited systems to detect, report, or manage these infections. The study found various dangerous fungi causing infections ranging from vaginal candidiasis to serious disseminated infections, as well as crop-destroying soil fungi threatening bean production. The researchers emphasize that Rwanda urgently needs better diagnostic tools, trained healthcare workers, and coordinated public health strategies to combat the growing threat of fungal diseases.

Background

Fungal infections represent a significant global public health concern with over 1.5 million deaths annually attributed to them. However, documentation of fungal infections remains sparse in Africa, particularly in Rwanda, where these infections receive minimal attention due to lack of evidence for policymaking.

Objective

This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the diversity and distribution of fungal infections affecting humans, animals, and plants in Rwanda, identify prevalence and risk factors, and address gaps in knowledge, policy, and public health interventions.

Results

Ten reports on human fungal infections and one study on plant fungal infections were identified. Human infections included Candida, Histoplasma duboisi, Blastomyces dermatitidis, Rhinosporidium seeberi, Cryptococcus neoformans, Pneumocystis carinii, and dermatophytes. Plant infections included Pythium spp., Macrophomina phaseolina, Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum, and Sclerotium rolfsii affecting beans.

Conclusion

The review reveals significant gaps in diagnostic capacity, surveillance systems, and healthcare services for fungal infections in Rwanda. There is an urgent need for developing diagnostic capacity, integrating molecular techniques, establishing surveillance systems, and implementing a multisectoral one health strategy to address the burden of fungal infections on human, animal, and environmental health.
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