Pub Date : 2024-11-24DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100497
Mahbubur Rahman , Ahmed Nawsher Alam , Sudipta Sarkar , Manjur Hossain Khan , Punam Mangtani , Saira Butt , Anne Conan , Damer Blake , Fiona Tomley , Guillaume Fournie , Tahmina Shirin , Patrick Nguipdop-Djomo
Objectives
We assessed the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and vaccine receipt in a representative sample of wet market workers in a highly dense, low-income setting. Wet markets are key in many Asian settings, including Dhaka, Bangladesh, for fresh food, including animal protein.
Methods
During early 2022, we assessed the prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in a random sample of poultry and vegetable workers in 15 wet markets, and investigated associations with socio-demographic characteristics and COVID-19 vaccination.
Results
In the 204 poultry workers and 87 vegetable sellers recruited, COVID-19 vaccine uptake was similar (69% vs 67%). The most common vaccines were whole inactivated vaccines (Sinopharm or Sinovac; 44%). Nearly all (99%) participants were positive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike antibodies. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antibodies, indicative of recent infection, was 59.4% (95% confidence interval 54.7-64.0%). There was no evidence that the latter was associated any characteristics, except vaccination (adjusted odds ratio 0.49; 95% confidence interval 0.23-1.02; P = 0.093).
Conclusions
The ubiquity of anti-spike and high prevalence of anti-nucleocapsid antibodies were consistent with high transmission after three previous pandemic waves. Wet markets have a potential role amplifying transmission of airborne pathogens, such as SARS-CoV-2 and Avian Influenza Viruses, and an important public-facing hotspot for close monitoring for future emerging infections.
{"title":"Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in wet market workers in Dhaka, Bangladesh in 2022","authors":"Mahbubur Rahman , Ahmed Nawsher Alam , Sudipta Sarkar , Manjur Hossain Khan , Punam Mangtani , Saira Butt , Anne Conan , Damer Blake , Fiona Tomley , Guillaume Fournie , Tahmina Shirin , Patrick Nguipdop-Djomo","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100497","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100497","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>We assessed the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and vaccine receipt in a representative sample of wet market workers in a highly dense, low-income setting. Wet markets are key in many Asian settings, including Dhaka, Bangladesh, for fresh food, including animal protein.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>During early 2022, we assessed the prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in a random sample of poultry and vegetable workers in 15 wet markets, and investigated associations with socio-demographic characteristics and COVID-19 vaccination.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>In the 204 poultry workers and 87 vegetable sellers recruited, COVID-19 vaccine uptake was similar (69% vs 67%). The most common vaccines were whole inactivated vaccines (Sinopharm or Sinovac; 44%). Nearly all (99%) participants were positive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike antibodies. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antibodies, indicative of recent infection, was 59.4% (95% confidence interval 54.7-64.0%). There was no evidence that the latter was associated any characteristics, except vaccination (adjusted odds ratio 0.49; 95% confidence interval 0.23-1.02; <em>P</em> = 0.093).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The ubiquity of anti-spike and high prevalence of anti-nucleocapsid antibodies were consistent with high transmission after three previous pandemic waves. Wet markets have a potential role amplifying transmission of airborne pathogens, such as SARS-CoV-2 and Avian Influenza Viruses, and an important public-facing hotspot for close monitoring for future emerging infections.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100497"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11732135/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142985618","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-11-22DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100498
Chandrashekhar Unakal , Lemar Wayne Blake , Gerard Farfan , Angel Justiz-Vaillant , Bijay Raj Pandit , Patrick Eberechi Akpaka
Objectives
To delineate and understand the genetic variations among Helicobacter pylori strains from Trinidad and Tobago associated with gastric diseases.
Methods
One hundred (n = 100) patients who routinely presented with clinical features suggestive of peptic disease were enrolled in the study and underwent gastroscopy procedures. Biopsy specimens were analyzed using serological and molecular methods. Amplification of the variable vacuolating cytotoxin gene A (vacA), urease C (ureC), and 16S ribosomal RNA regions was performed by polymerase chain reaction; and then followed by sequencing and alignment. Phylogenetic analysis and DNA fragment alignment were carried out using DNA MEGA 7 version 7.
Results
Overall, 70 of the patients tested positive for H. pylori infection using an enzyme immune assay. All were 16S ribosomal RNA positive, with 8.6% (6/70) testing positive for S1 and 91.4% (64/70) for S2. The most prevalent vacA allelic combination was S2M1, with 87.1% (61/70) cases. All S1M1 strains were ureC-positive, while S1M2 strains were ureC-negative.
Conclusions
H. pylori strain variations are seen in the Trinidad and Tobago isolates and are most closely related to the ones from the USA, India, and Indonesia. However, the factors contributing to the emergence of S2/M1 being more prevalent will need to be further investigated.
目的:描述和了解特立尼达和多巴哥与胃疾病相关的幽门螺杆菌菌株的遗传变异。方法:100例(n = 100)例行表现出消化性疾病临床特征的患者被纳入研究,并接受胃镜检查。活检标本采用血清学和分子方法进行分析。采用聚合酶链反应扩增可变液泡细胞毒素基因A (vacA)、脲酶C (ureC)和16S核糖体RNA区域;然后是测序和比对。采用DNA MEGA 7 version 7进行系统发育分析和DNA片段比对。结果:总体而言,使用酶免疫分析,70例患者检测幽门螺杆菌感染呈阳性。16S核糖体RNA阳性,S1阳性8.6% (6/70),S2阳性91.4%(64/70)。最常见的vacA等位基因组合为S2M1,占87.1%(61/70)。S1M1株urecc阳性,S1M2株urecc阴性。结论:特立尼达和多巴哥分离株中存在幽门螺杆菌菌株变异,与美国、印度和印度尼西亚分离株关系最密切。然而,导致S2/M1更普遍出现的因素需要进一步调查。
{"title":"Helicobacter pylori vacA genes associated with gastric diseases in Trinidad and Tobago","authors":"Chandrashekhar Unakal , Lemar Wayne Blake , Gerard Farfan , Angel Justiz-Vaillant , Bijay Raj Pandit , Patrick Eberechi Akpaka","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100498","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100498","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>To delineate and understand the genetic variations among <em>Helicobacter pylori</em> strains from Trinidad and Tobago associated with gastric diseases.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>One hundred (n = 100) patients who routinely presented with clinical features suggestive of peptic disease were enrolled in the study and underwent gastroscopy procedures. Biopsy specimens were analyzed using serological and molecular methods. Amplification of the variable vacuolating cytotoxin gene A (<em>vac</em>A), urease C (<em>ure</em>C), and 16S ribosomal RNA regions was performed by polymerase chain reaction; and then followed by sequencing and alignment. Phylogenetic analysis and DNA fragment alignment were carried out using DNA MEGA 7 version 7.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Overall, 70 of the patients tested positive for <em>H. pylori</em> infection using an enzyme immune assay. All were 16S ribosomal RNA positive, with 8.6% (6/70) testing positive for S1 and 91.4% (64/70) for S2. The most prevalent <em>vac</em>A allelic combination was S2M1, with 87.1% (61/70) cases. All S1M1 strains were <em>ure</em>C-positive, while S1M2 strains were <em>ure</em>C-negative.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div><em>H. pylori</em> strain variations are seen in the Trinidad and Tobago isolates and are most closely related to the ones from the USA, India, and Indonesia. However, the factors contributing to the emergence of S2/M1 being more prevalent will need to be further investigated.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100498"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11664410/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142883849","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
We examined shifts in labor productivity and their economic ramifications among adult patients with long COVID in Japan.
Methods
A total of 396 patients were categorized into three groups based on symptom progression: non-long COVID, long COVID recovered, and long COVID persistent. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed at three time intervals: 3, 6, and 12 months after COVID-19 diagnosis. Labor productivity was gauged through presenteeism and absenteeism, measured using the World Health Organization Health and Work Performance Questionnaire.
Results
Long COVID was observed in 52.7% of patients, and 29.3% of all the patients continued to experience long COVID symptoms 1 year after diagnosis. At all three time points (3, 6, and 12 months after diagnosis), the long COVID persistent group showed a statistically significant difference in absolute presenteeism compared with the non-long COVID and long COVID recovered groups (P <0.01). Economic loss owing to decrease in labor productivity was calculated as $21,659 per year in the long COVID persistent group and $9008 per year in the long COVID recovered group (P <0.01).
Conclusion
The study's results revealed a notable decline in labor productivity over time, underscoring the importance of early detection and intervention to mitigate the socio-economic repercussions of long COVID, in addition to its health implications.
{"title":"The relationship between long COVID, labor productivity, and socioeconomic losses in Japan: A cohort study","authors":"Shunichiro Konishi , Katsunori Masaki , Kyoko Shimamoto , Yoko Ibuka , Rei Goto , Ho Namkoong , Shotaro Chubachi , Hideki Terai , Takanori Asakura , Jun Miyata , Shuhei Azekawa , Kensuke Nakagawara , Hiromu Tanaka , Atsuho Morita , Norihiro Harada , Hitoshi Sasano , Ai Nakamura , Yu Kusaka , Takehiko Ohba , Yasushi Nakano , Koichi Fukunaga","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100495","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100495","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>We examined shifts in labor productivity and their economic ramifications among adult patients with long COVID in Japan.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 396 patients were categorized into three groups based on symptom progression: non-long COVID, long COVID recovered, and long COVID persistent. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed at three time intervals: 3, 6, and 12 months after COVID-19 diagnosis. Labor productivity was gauged through presenteeism and absenteeism, measured using the World Health Organization Health and Work Performance Questionnaire.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Long COVID was observed in 52.7% of patients, and 29.3% of all the patients continued to experience long COVID symptoms 1 year after diagnosis. At all three time points (3, 6, and 12 months after diagnosis), the long COVID persistent group showed a statistically significant difference in absolute presenteeism compared with the non-long COVID and long COVID recovered groups (<em>P</em> <0.01). Economic loss owing to decrease in labor productivity was calculated as $21,659 per year in the long COVID persistent group and $9008 per year in the long COVID recovered group (<em>P</em> <0.01).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The study's results revealed a notable decline in labor productivity over time, underscoring the importance of early detection and intervention to mitigate the socio-economic repercussions of long COVID, in addition to its health implications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100495"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11664411/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142882981","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-11-19DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100494
Su Myat Han , Yin Mo , Lin-Fa Wang , David C Lye , Barnaby Edward Young , David Paterson , Paul Anantharajah Tambyah , Yeo Tsin Wen , PREPARE - Temasek Foundation READI Trials Workshop participants
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for well-established clinical research networks capable of rapid response during infectious disease outbreaks. In Southeast Asia, the absence of active research networks at the onset of the COVID-19 contributed to gaps in regional preparedness. This manuscript discusses the challenges and opportunities identified during a regional workshop held in Singapore (February 26 to March 1, 2024), which brought together 130 stakeholders from across the region. The workshop aimed to build consensus on strategies to strengthen existing networks by developing human capacity, overcoming resource limitations, and sustaining collaborative research during inter-pandemic periods. Key challenges identified included the variability in research infrastructure across countries, complex regulatory requirements, and insufficient funding during non-outbreak periods. Recommendations include the development of standardized research protocols, the creation of a regional data sharing platform, and fostering sustained collaboration to ensure these networks remain functional and responsive. Addressing these gaps is critical for enhancing Southeast Asia's capacity to conduct high-quality clinical trials and effectively respond to future infectious disease outbreaks.
{"title":"Establishing clinical research networks for future infectious disease outbreak responses in Southeast Asia: Report of a workshop on challenges and opportunities","authors":"Su Myat Han , Yin Mo , Lin-Fa Wang , David C Lye , Barnaby Edward Young , David Paterson , Paul Anantharajah Tambyah , Yeo Tsin Wen , PREPARE - Temasek Foundation READI Trials Workshop participants","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100494","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100494","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for well-established clinical research networks capable of rapid response during infectious disease outbreaks. In Southeast Asia, the absence of active research networks at the onset of the COVID-19 contributed to gaps in regional preparedness. This manuscript discusses the challenges and opportunities identified during a regional workshop held in Singapore (February 26 to March 1, 2024), which brought together 130 stakeholders from across the region. The workshop aimed to build consensus on strategies to strengthen existing networks by developing human capacity, overcoming resource limitations, and sustaining collaborative research during inter-pandemic periods. Key challenges identified included the variability in research infrastructure across countries, complex regulatory requirements, and insufficient funding during non-outbreak periods. Recommendations include the development of standardized research protocols, the creation of a regional data sharing platform, and fostering sustained collaboration to ensure these networks remain functional and responsive. Addressing these gaps is critical for enhancing Southeast Asia's capacity to conduct high-quality clinical trials and effectively respond to future infectious disease outbreaks.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100494"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11683251/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142908069","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-11-15DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100492
Ibrahim A. Naqid , Ali Jotiar Mahmood , Ahmed A. Mosa , Zana Sherwan Ahmed , Abdulrrahman Saad Abdullah , Dana Sherzad Abdulkareem , Rojeen Chalabi Khalid , Iman Ramadhan Yousif , Hajar Hassan Abdulqadir
Background and Objectives
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are significant global health challenges, leading to severe complications such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite available vaccines and treatments, these infections persist, particularly, in regions such as Iraq. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HBV and HCV among couples attending premarital screening programs in Zakho, Kurdistan Region of Iraq and explore the associated demographic risk factors.
Methods
A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from October 1, 2019 to December 31, 2023, including 15,091 couples. Laboratory screening for HBV and HCV was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, followed by RNA quantification for HCV-positive cases.
Results
Of the total of 15,091 couples, the overall prevalence of HBV was 0.92% and HCV was 0.07%. Males, individuals aged 23-31 years, and urban residents had higher infection rates. Significant risk factors included age 23-31 years, male gender, and urban residency (P <0.05).
Conclusions
The prevalence of HBV and HCV among couples in Zakho is consistent with regional data. Higher infection rates in males and urban areas suggest the need for targeted interventions, including public education and screening for high-risk populations.
{"title":"Hepatitis B and C virus infection among couples undergoing premarital screening in Iraqi Kurdistan","authors":"Ibrahim A. Naqid , Ali Jotiar Mahmood , Ahmed A. Mosa , Zana Sherwan Ahmed , Abdulrrahman Saad Abdullah , Dana Sherzad Abdulkareem , Rojeen Chalabi Khalid , Iman Ramadhan Yousif , Hajar Hassan Abdulqadir","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100492","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100492","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background and Objectives</h3><div>Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are significant global health challenges, leading to severe complications such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite available vaccines and treatments, these infections persist, particularly, in regions such as Iraq. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HBV and HCV among couples attending premarital screening programs in Zakho, Kurdistan Region of Iraq and explore the associated demographic risk factors.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from October 1, 2019 to December 31, 2023, including 15,091 couples. Laboratory screening for HBV and HCV was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, followed by RNA quantification for HCV-positive cases.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Of the total of 15,091 couples, the overall prevalence of HBV was 0.92% and HCV was 0.07%. Males, individuals aged 23-31 years, and urban residents had higher infection rates. Significant risk factors included age 23-31 years, male gender, and urban residency (<em>P</em> <0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The prevalence of HBV and HCV among couples in Zakho is consistent with regional data. Higher infection rates in males and urban areas suggest the need for targeted interventions, including public education and screening for high-risk populations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100492"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11665605/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142883881","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-11-15DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100493
Sherin Shams , Thoraya Alyafei , Hanaa Nafady-Hego , Emad Bashier Ibrahim Elmagboul , Aimon B. Malik , Anil G. Thomas , Samah Saleem , Zain Bhutta , Atika Jabeen , Muna Almaslamani , Abdullatif Alkhal , Aftab M. Azad , Abdul-Badi Abou-Samra , Adeel A. Butt
Objectives
Mass gathering events may facilitate the transmission of foodborne diseases. We determined the presentations and causative organisms of gastrointestinal illness among the attendees of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association Football World Cup 2022 (FIFA 2022).
Methods
The study was conducted at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar, which served as the national reference laboratory for all microbiology testing. We retrieved all stool testing data from the attendees of FIFA 2022 from October 1 to December 31, 2022. Stool microscopy for ova and parasite and cultures were performed on all samples. Polymerase chain reaction testing was performed for cases of suspected foodborne outbreaks or when a rapid result was required for public health response.
Results
Among 2179 samples tested, one or more organisms were identified in 424 cases. The most common reasons for testing were acute diarrhea/gastroenteritis (51.4%), abdominal pain (11.5%), screening/surveillance of contacts (10.6%), and fever (7.6%). Bacteria were identified in 92.5% (Salmonella spp. 40%, Escherichia coli 25.7%, and Shigella spp. 8.8%), viruses in 7.8%, and parasites in 2.8% of the samples.
Conclusions
The number of individuals who underwent stool testing during the FIFA 2022 was low. The yield of stool testing was higher for those with acute diarrhea/gastroenteritis and fever but not for those with abdominal pain or for surveillance/screening.
{"title":"Gastrointestinal illness among attendees of the FIFA Football World Cup 2022 in Qatar","authors":"Sherin Shams , Thoraya Alyafei , Hanaa Nafady-Hego , Emad Bashier Ibrahim Elmagboul , Aimon B. Malik , Anil G. Thomas , Samah Saleem , Zain Bhutta , Atika Jabeen , Muna Almaslamani , Abdullatif Alkhal , Aftab M. Azad , Abdul-Badi Abou-Samra , Adeel A. Butt","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100493","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100493","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Mass gathering events may facilitate the transmission of foodborne diseases. We determined the presentations and causative organisms of gastrointestinal illness among the attendees of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association Football World Cup 2022 (FIFA 2022).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The study was conducted at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar, which served as the national reference laboratory for all microbiology testing. We retrieved all stool testing data from the attendees of FIFA 2022 from October 1 to December 31, 2022. Stool microscopy for ova and parasite and cultures were performed on all samples. Polymerase chain reaction testing was performed for cases of suspected foodborne outbreaks or when a rapid result was required for public health response.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Among 2179 samples tested, one or more organisms were identified in 424 cases. The most common reasons for testing were acute diarrhea/gastroenteritis (51.4%), abdominal pain (11.5%), screening/surveillance of contacts (10.6%), and fever (7.6%). Bacteria were identified in 92.5% <em>(Salmonella spp.</em> 40%, <em>Escherichia coli</em> 25.7%, and <em>Shigella spp.</em> 8.8%), viruses in 7.8%, and parasites in 2.8% of the samples.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The number of individuals who underwent stool testing during the FIFA 2022 was low. The yield of stool testing was higher for those with acute diarrhea/gastroenteritis and fever but not for those with abdominal pain or for surveillance/screening.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100493"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11664404/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142883877","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is recognized as a significant cause of acute respiratory infections among infants under 5 years of age.
Methods
Nasal swabs collected from January 2021 to June 2024 were screened to detect hMPV using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, representative positive samples were sequenced and subjected to phylogenetic analysis.
Results
Of 4519 samples tested, 113 were positive for hMPV. Notably, an outbreak occurred between November 2022 and March 2023, where 56 of 583 (9.6%) patients tested positive. Analysis of the outbreak samples revealed that majority (6.3%) of cases occurred in December and January. hMPV infection was more prevalent in less than 1 year, with 29 (67%) patients with a history of wheezing and 3 (6.9%) with seizures. On the genetic analysis of F protein, 37 samples identified two genotypes as A and B, with subclusters of 29 (85.29%) samples to A2.1, 1 (2.94%) to A2.2.1, and 4 (11.76%) to A2.2.2 within genotype A and one sample clustered with B1 and 2 samples to B2 within genotype B.
Conclusions
The study underscores the significant prevalence and genetic diversity of hMPV in children in Puducherry, India. Notably, the identification of novel A2.2.1 and A2.2.2 lineages highlights the evolving nature of hMPV.
{"title":"Emerging lineages A2.2.1 and A2.2.2 of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in pediatric respiratory infections: Insights from India","authors":"Nivedha Devanathan , Ferdinamarie Sharmila Philomenadin , Gokul Panachikuth , Sangitha Jayagandan , Narayan Ramamurthy , Vimal Raj Ratchagadasse , Venkatesh Chandrasekaran , Rahul Dhodapkar","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100486","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100486","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is recognized as a significant cause of acute respiratory infections among infants under 5 years of age.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Nasal swabs collected from January 2021 to June 2024 were screened to detect hMPV using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, representative positive samples were sequenced and subjected to phylogenetic analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Of 4519 samples tested, 113 were positive for hMPV. Notably, an outbreak occurred between November 2022 and March 2023, where 56 of 583 (9.6%) patients tested positive. Analysis of the outbreak samples revealed that majority (6.3%) of cases occurred in December and January. hMPV infection was more prevalent in less than 1 year, with 29 (67%) patients with a history of wheezing and 3 (6.9%) with seizures. On the genetic analysis of F protein, 37 samples identified two genotypes as A and B, with subclusters of 29 (85.29%) samples to A2.1, 1 (2.94%) to A2.2.1, and 4 (11.76%) to A2.2.2 within genotype A and one sample clustered with B1 and 2 samples to B2 within genotype B.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The study underscores the significant prevalence and genetic diversity of hMPV in children in Puducherry, India. Notably, the identification of novel A2.2.1 and A2.2.2 lineages highlights the evolving nature of hMPV.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100486"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11665530/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142883858","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-11-10DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100490
Nguyen Khoi Quan , Andrew W. Taylor-Robinson
In Vietnam, farming dogs for meat is not illegal but is increasingly marginalized as dog meat consumption comes under heightened social scrutiny. This loosely regulated practice likely increases the risk of rabies transmission to humans. At a time when human-wildlife conflict has become a major discussion point for global health, stray dogs escaping or being deliberately released from dog farms is a cause for serious concern. The first half of 2024 saw a significant spike in the incidence of human rabies cases, occurring in not just rural hot spots but also urban conurbations. Bites from rabid feral dogs are the primary source of infection, the distribution of which often clusters in the vicinity of battery farms or slaughterhouses that have recently downscaled or closed their business. Addressing this risk requires pursuing a One Health strategy that focuses on catching and euthanizing rabid dogs, vaccinating healthy dogs, implementing safety measures during dog slaughtering, and regulating dog meat trade. By robust enforcement of this comprehensive plan, it is hoped to prevent rabies outbreaks and protect public health. Hanoi is already taking the lead in introducing measures to avert a rabies crisis in the Vietnamese capital.
{"title":"Combatting rabies outbreaks in Vietnam: High time to enforce restrictions on dog meat farming, a key source of transmission","authors":"Nguyen Khoi Quan , Andrew W. Taylor-Robinson","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100490","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100490","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In Vietnam, farming dogs for meat is not illegal but is increasingly marginalized as dog meat consumption comes under heightened social scrutiny. This loosely regulated practice likely increases the risk of rabies transmission to humans. At a time when human-wildlife conflict has become a major discussion point for global health, stray dogs escaping or being deliberately released from dog farms is a cause for serious concern. The first half of 2024 saw a significant spike in the incidence of human rabies cases, occurring in not just rural hot spots but also urban conurbations. Bites from rabid feral dogs are the primary source of infection, the distribution of which often clusters in the vicinity of battery farms or slaughterhouses that have recently downscaled or closed their business. Addressing this risk requires pursuing a One Health strategy that focuses on catching and euthanizing rabid dogs, vaccinating healthy dogs, implementing safety measures during dog slaughtering, and regulating dog meat trade. By robust enforcement of this comprehensive plan, it is hoped to prevent rabies outbreaks and protect public health. Hanoi is already taking the lead in introducing measures to avert a rabies crisis in the Vietnamese capital.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100490"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142703383","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
On October 4, 2021, a cholera outbreak was reported in Kapilvastu District, one of Nepal's 26 districts bordering India. This study examined the outbreak's characteristics, response efforts, and the challenges faced.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional design was applied for the outbreak investigation. Data were gathered through a review of cases registered in three local health facilities and community-based active case searching. A descriptive analysis was performed on the collected data.
Results
Between October 4 and December 2, 2021, 1570 cases were reported across 10 municipalities in Kapilvastu, with 88.6% of cases occurring in communities bordering India. Most affected were female patients (55%) and children aged 5-14 years (32%). A total of 39% cases were confirmed to have the Vibrio cholerae O1 Ogawa serotype, which showed resistance to cotrimoxazole. Additionally, 453 cases of acute watery diarrhea were identified in the community, with 23% showing signs of dehydration. Of 29 water samples, 17 (59%) were contaminated with fecal coliform.
Conclusions
Communities along the Nepal–India border are highly vulnerable to cholera outbreaks, highlighting the urgent need for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene practices. A coordinated approach to cholera surveillance and preparedness is crucial to prevent future outbreaks.
{"title":"Epidemiological investigation of a cholera outbreak in Nepal–India border communities: Public health implications","authors":"Koshal C. Subedee , Krishna P. Paudel , Hem Raj Pandey , Mukesh Chaudhary , Shashi Kandel , Mona Pradhan , Manish Baidya , Amrit Pokhrel , Anu Shakya , Nishant Thakur , Rabin Gautam , Dipendra Gautam , Ajit Karna , Pushpa R. Poudel , Anjila Poudel , Shankar Adhikari , Binod Giri , Subash Thapa","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100489","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100489","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>On October 4, 2021, a cholera outbreak was reported in Kapilvastu District, one of Nepal's 26 districts bordering India. This study examined the outbreak's characteristics, response efforts, and the challenges faced.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A descriptive cross-sectional design was applied for the outbreak investigation. Data were gathered through a review of cases registered in three local health facilities and community-based active case searching. A descriptive analysis was performed on the collected data.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Between October 4 and December 2, 2021, 1570 cases were reported across 10 municipalities in Kapilvastu, with 88.6% of cases occurring in communities bordering India. Most affected were female patients (55%) and children aged 5-14 years (32%). A total of 39% cases were confirmed to have the <em>Vibrio cholerae</em> O1 Ogawa serotype, which showed resistance to cotrimoxazole. Additionally, 453 cases of acute watery diarrhea were identified in the community, with 23% showing signs of dehydration. Of 29 water samples, 17 (59%) were contaminated with fecal coliform.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Communities along the Nepal–India border are highly vulnerable to cholera outbreaks, highlighting the urgent need for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene practices. A coordinated approach to cholera surveillance and preparedness is crucial to prevent future outbreaks.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100489"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142759102","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Four endemic human coronaviruses (HCoVs), HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-HKU1, and HCoV-OC43, infect humans during childhood and cause the common cold. COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 leads to mild symptoms in children, possibly owing to the protection conferred by immunity developed during a previous HCoV infection. This study analyzed the seroreactivity of four endemic HCoVs and SARS-CoV-2 in children and adults.
Methods
A total of 747 serum samples (from individuals aged 6 months to 69 years) were collected from 2015 to 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. The samples were tested for immunoglobulin G antibodies against the four endemic HCoVs and SARS-CoV-2 wild-type spike ectodomain proteins using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Results
The seroprevalence of endemic HCoVs (except HCoV-229E) showed 90% positivity by 3-4 years old, whereas HCoV-229E seroprevalence was observed at 8 years old. Approximately 35% of the samples showed reactivity to SARS-CoV-2 and did not change with age. However, the children's group presented higher antibody levels than the adult group. The sample reactivity against SARS-CoV-2 did not confirm neutralization capability.
Conclusions
The reactive samples against SARS-CoV-2 showed varying antibody levels among different age groups. These findings may contribute to a deeper understanding of the clinical symptoms of COVID-19 and coronavirus diseases.
{"title":"Serological analyses against endemic human coronaviruses and SARS-CoV-2 in children and adults using samples collected before the COVID-19 pandemic","authors":"Yusuke Sayama , Chuan Lo , Hiroki Tomizawa , Mayuko Saito , Michiko Okamoto , Suguru Ohmiya , Hidekazu Nishimura , Hitoshi Oshitani","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100485","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100485","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Four endemic human coronaviruses (HCoVs), HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-HKU1, and HCoV-OC43, infect humans during childhood and cause the common cold. COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 leads to mild symptoms in children, possibly owing to the protection conferred by immunity developed during a previous HCoV infection. This study analyzed the seroreactivity of four endemic HCoVs and SARS-CoV-2 in children and adults.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 747 serum samples (from individuals aged 6 months to 69 years) were collected from 2015 to 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. The samples were tested for immunoglobulin G antibodies against the four endemic HCoVs and SARS-CoV-2 wild-type spike ectodomain proteins using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The seroprevalence of endemic HCoVs (except HCoV-229E) showed 90% positivity by 3-4 years old, whereas HCoV-229E seroprevalence was observed at 8 years old. Approximately 35% of the samples showed reactivity to SARS-CoV-2 and did not change with age. However, the children's group presented higher antibody levels than the adult group. The sample reactivity against SARS-CoV-2 did not confirm neutralization capability.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The reactive samples against SARS-CoV-2 showed varying antibody levels among different age groups. These findings may contribute to a deeper understanding of the clinical symptoms of COVID-19 and coronavirus diseases.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100485"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2024-11-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142703384","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}