Data insights aid in managing livestock disease spread

A team of Roslin researchers collaborated with the University of Makerere in Uganda to compile and analyse official data detailing the movement of cattle trade across the East African country.

Experts aimed to identify critical hubs for targeted surveillance and intervention of highly contagious illnesses that can rapidly transmit and devastate animal populations.

Given the economic significance and potential impact of so-called Transboundary Animal Diseases (TADs) in countries such as Uganda, where livestock plays a crucial role in the economy and livelihoods of many, understanding and managing these diseases is crucial, researchers say.

Cattle movement data could be used to better guide decision-making and resource allocation in disease management in sub-Saharan Africa, the team says.

Cattle movement

Findings revealed seasonal variability in cattle movements, potentially influenced by factors such as climate, market demand and cultural practices.

The data also highlighted the importance of distinguishing between districts acting as central hubs for cattle trade and peripheral areas where animals are primarily received or reared.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for targeting surveillance efforts and interventions effectively, the research team says.

By identifying influential trading hubs and seasonal patterns in cattle movements, authorities could implement proactive measures to prevent outbreaks and mitigate the impact of TADs.

Future development

Creating a database of cattle movement data could be a valuable tool for informing vaccination strategies, enforcing biosecurity measures and optimising existing disease control measures. Researchers have already piloted a disease surveillance system based on their findings using environmental and animal samples collected at livestock markets, demonstrating the practical applications of this research.

The team has also published steps detailing how to gather and map this data, to enable other researchers and policymakers to interpret the data.

This research was published in Nature Scientific Reports and carried out in collaboration with colleagues from France and Uganda.

We have been contacted by groups interested in using this approach, as the analysis can be easily conducted by veterinary epidemiologists who may not have access to advanced technology and resources, but want to enhance the value of their existing data for strategic decision-making, as well as to identify gaps in their monitoring systems for livestock movements”.

By leveraging this knowledge, authorities can better safeguard livestock populations and protect the nation's agricultural economy through targeted, risk-based approaches

Lina Gonzalez Gordon, PhD student and first author 

This study represents a significant step forward in repurposing archived data, such as animal movement permits, to understand and combat TADs in the region. Therefore, there is a need to support ongoing collaboration and resource investment to translate these findings into actionable strategies for disease prevention and control.

Dr Adrian Muwonge, Chancellor's Fellow

This research successfully utilised existing data to better understand livestock movements and how these impact disease spread. It has also been a great opportunity to collaborate with colleagues in Uganda and build on the links we have there going forward to help improve human and animal health

Prof Mark Bronsvoort, epidemiologist

** The Roslin Institute receives strategic investment funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and it is part of the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. **

Related links

Research publication