Contribution to the wildlife infectious disease risk analysis associated with the reintroduction of the scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx dammah) from the United Arab Emirates to Chad

The reintroduction of the scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx dammah) (SHO) from the United Arab Emirates to Chad provides a unique opportunity for in-depth exploration of various aspects related to the ecological, environmental, and health dynamics associated with this reintroduction process. Prompted by the global decline in biodiversity, this endeavour aims to reinstate a native species and mitigate the negative impacts of human activities on ecosystems. The SHO, recognized as a potential keystone species, which might play a pivotal role in shaping ecosystem structure and functioning. The reintroduction initiative not only focuses on the oryx's well-being but also underscores broader implications for ecosystem health, biodiversity, and the harmony between human and environmental interests. However, the reintroduction process introduces inherent risks, particularly concerning the potential for pathogen pollution and the release of zoonotic pathogens. The increased interaction between the oryx, other wildlife, livestock, and human populations elevates the risk of disease transmission. This necessitates a systematic risk assessment, providing insights to inform strategies for mitigating the potential impacts of disease emergence on both wildlife, livestock, and human health. Brucellosis poses a significant zoonotic risk, with the first confirmed outbreak in SHO described in article 1. Serological testing revealed a high seroprevalence rate, with females and older individuals showing higher probabilities of being seropositive in article 2. In article 6, a controlled trial administering the Rev.1 vaccine demonstrated safety, with both subcutaneous and conjunctival routes eliciting long-term cellular responses. However, the conjunctival route exhibited a shorter humoral response. Furthermore, the presence of Bluetongue virus genome in seronegative oryx post-transport highlights risks associated with translocation in appendix 1, necessitating pre-import risk assessment for wild ruminant species susceptible to orbiviruses not only in the country of destination but also where transit happens. Foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks underscore the susceptibility of SHO to this economically impactful disease in article 3, emphasizing the need for robust surveillance and control measures. Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia outbreaks further demonstrate the susceptibility of related wildlife species in article 4 and highlight transmission dynamics previously undocumented in article 5. Our findings provide valuable insights into the epidemiology of pathogens circulating in the United Arab Emirates, informing risk management strategies for the reintroduction of the SHO. Through comprehensive risk assessment and transparent communication, stakeholders play a pivotal role in shaping the success of this conservation endeavour.