Viral Disease Burden in Plants: Implications for Crop Yield and Food Security in Africa
摘要
This work delves into the nexus of viral diseases, crop yield, and food security in Africa, emphasising the One Health framework’s relevance. Viral pathogens such as the Cassava Mosaic Virus and the Maize Streak Virus imperil agricultural productivity, exacerbating food insecurity. The interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health underscores the need for collaborative approaches to disease management. Poor food security has profound health implications, including widespread malnutrition and undernutrition, which can exacerbate health conditions such as anaemia and vitamin deficiencies, impair cognitive and physical development, and contribute to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Additionally, food insecurity can result in reproductive health issues like complications during pregnancy and higher risks of infant mortality. By integrating expertise from diverse fields, including agriculture, veterinary science, and environmental studies, in relation to impacts on human health, holistic strategies can be developed to mitigate viral disease impacts. This work advocates for sustainable agricultural practices and enhanced disease surveillance to safeguard crop health, livestock welfare, human nutrition, and health implications associated with poor food security, all to ensure resilient food systems across the continent.