Elephant Dung Remedy Raises Health Concerns: Zimbabwe Veterinarian Warns of Zoonotic Disease Risk
A traditional practice in Zimbabwe involving the ingestion of elephant dung for medicinal purposes has sparked concerns among health professionals. While some communities believe it aids in childbirth, experts warn of potential risks associated with zoonotic diseases.
Dr. Tsitsi Makanyanga, a veterinarian, highlighted the dangers during a recent discussion on animal health and HIV. "We have common practices that we do, and some of them are harmful and dangerous," she said.
Dr. Makanyanga acknowledged the belief that elephant dung might contain oxytocin, a hormone known to induce contractions during labor. However, she cautioned, "That oxytocin is the one which causes contractions, so if we are to take ndove yenzou (elephant dung), it means that if there are any zoonotic pathogens like salmonella which come through the gut, then there is a risk of us being infected."
She emphasized the lack of dosage control when using elephant dung, raising the possibility of overdose and potentially dangerous complications. "And there is no dosage for that oxytocin in dung, it is just haphazard so it can be overdosed. This can cause abnormal contractions and may end up even killing the baby," Dr. Makanyanga warned.
Beyond the potential for infection and overdose, Dr. Makanyanga highlighted the broader connection between human and animal health, particularly in light of the rise of zoonotic diseases.
"Globally, zoonotic diseases contribute to approximately one billion illnesses and 2.7 million deaths each year," she stated.
Citing figures from the World Health Organization, she noted that 60% of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic, with 75% of over 30 new human pathogens in the last three decades originating from animals.
Dr. Makanyanga stressed the urgent need for increased awareness and collaboration between public health, veterinary, and wildlife sectors. "There’s insufficient information on the burden, trend, and risks of zoonotic diseases among the population. There are inadequate resources for the control of zoonotic diseases. There is poor collaboration between public health, veterinary, and wildlife sectors," she explained.
This lack of integrated efforts, according to Dr. Makanyanga, compromises our ability to effectively control zoonotic diseases, posing a significant risk to human health, particularly for those living with HIV.
The list of zoonotic diseases is extensive and includes rabies, salmonellosis, Lyme disease, zoonotic influenza, Ebola, West Nile virus, and leptospirosis.
Zoonotic Diseases: A Global Threat
By shedding light on traditional practices that may pose health risks, Dr. Makanyanga underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing zoonotic diseases, not only in Zimbabwe but around the world.
