Bushmeat Consumption and the Risk of Zoonotic Tick-Borne Pathogen Infections in Ghana: An Increasing Risk to Public Health

Abstract

Consuming bushmeat is a widely accepted tradition in Ghana and other West African countries, where it is a vital source of income and protein for many rural populations. However, there are considerable risks associated with this behavior, especially when it comes to zoonotic tick-borne infections. Zoonotic tick-borne pathogens are common in wildlife and can spread to people when they handle or eat inadequately prepared bushmeat. This article addresses the growing threat of zoonotic tick-borne infections associated with consuming bushmeat in Ghana, which is made worse by factors including deforestation, climate change, and more frequent interactions between people and wildlife. Public health risks are heightened due to limited knowledge and awareness of tick-borne infections and inadequate food safety standards, particularly in rural areas where consuming bushmeat is widespread. To mitigate the risks of zoonotic tick-borne pathogen transmission, this perspective advocates for urgent public health interventions, including stricter regulations on bushmeat handling and sales, enhanced wildlife surveillance, and increased public health education on the dangers of zoonotic diseases.