Mapping Human-Wildlife Interfaces for Zoonotic Pathogens Spillover Surveillance in the District des Montagnes, Côte D’Ivoire

Abstract

Background/Objectives : In Côte d’Ivoire, existing disease surveillance systems seldom cover human-wildlife interfaces despite the potential for pathogen spillovers that are likely to occur in these areas. Therefore, it is imperative to map these interfaces to assist government and stakeholders in establishing coordinated and multisectoral disease surveillance and risk monitoring. This study aimed to develop an interactive map of human-wildlife interfaces in the District des Montagnes. Methods : Using GIS technology and approaches. We collected data from government institutions to develop five indices of interactions between humans and wildlife that characterize the level of human infiltration of protected areas and classified forests, the extent of roadways, human settlements, population density in the vicinity of protected areas, and the number of wild meat sales and consumption points. We further spatialized the five indices to create maps that were merged in a multicriteria spatial analysis to produce a synthesis map of human-wildlife interfaces. Results : The departments of Man and Danané showed the highest level of interactions between humans, wildlife, and the environment. In addition, various classified forests, parks, and reserves face anthropogenic pressure resulting in high levels of interactions between humans and wildlife. Conclusions : The interactive map of human-wildlife interfaces produced will serve as a decision-making tool to enhance disease surveillance systems and promote the One Health approach in Côte d’Ivoire.