Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100740
Narin A. Rasheed
{"title":"Reply to “Spa gene diversity in MRSA: Assessing the limits of PCR-based typing”","authors":"Narin A. Rasheed","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100740","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100740","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100740"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145736386","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100773
Nandini Singh , Loick Pradel Kojom Foko , Jyoti Chhibber-Goel, Amit Sharma
Lymphatic filariasis (LF) remains endemic in India, with the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control targeting elimination by 2027 through mass drug administration and other control tools. We reviewed 157 studies on filariasis in India (2001-2023) via PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. We did futher screening using Covidence and Cochrane’s tools and analyzed data using GraphPad Prism and R. From 1,488,432 examined subjects (1,486,508 humans and 1924 canines), 22,938 humans were positive for LF, 26 were confirmed cases for human dirofilariasis, and 228 canines had filarial infections. Puducherry showed the highest LF prevalence (∼43%) while Kerala reported significant canine dirofilariasis (∼22%). Atypical symptoms (e.g., breast filariasis) and diagnostic gaps (e.g., lack of filaria-specific tests) complicated management, with coinfections (e.g., with Leishmania, Plasmodium) further challenging treatment. Enhanced surveillance in non-endemic states, improved diagnostics, and a One Health approach integrating human, animal, and vector data will be critical for meeting LF elimination.
{"title":"Two decades of filariasis in India: Insights into prevalence, diagnostic challenges, and strategies for elimination by 2027","authors":"Nandini Singh , Loick Pradel Kojom Foko , Jyoti Chhibber-Goel, Amit Sharma","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100773","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100773","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Lymphatic filariasis (LF) remains endemic in India, with the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control targeting elimination by 2027 through mass drug administration and other control tools. We reviewed 157 studies on filariasis in India (2001-2023) via PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. We did futher screening using Covidence and Cochrane’s tools and analyzed data using GraphPad Prism and R. From 1,488,432 examined subjects (1,486,508 humans and 1924 canines), 22,938 humans were positive for LF, 26 were confirmed cases for human dirofilariasis, and 228 canines had filarial infections. Puducherry showed the highest LF prevalence (∼43%) while Kerala reported significant canine dirofilariasis (∼22%). Atypical symptoms (e.g., breast filariasis) and diagnostic gaps (e.g., lack of filaria-specific tests) complicated management, with coinfections (e.g., with <em>Leishmania, Plasmodium</em>) further challenging treatment. Enhanced surveillance in non-endemic states, improved diagnostics, and a One Health approach integrating human, animal, and vector data will be critical for meeting LF elimination.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100773"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145617739","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
During the COVID-19 pandemic, airport-based measures, such as fever screening and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing were implemented in Japan. Okinawa Prefecture introduced a voluntary airport PCR testing program for domestic travelers at Naha Airport (OKA). Their indirect behavioral effects on travelers remain underexplored. This study aims to describe self-reported pre-travel health awareness among participants in this program.
Methods
In February-March 2021, we conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire survey among Naha Airport PCR test Project (NAPP) participants (n = 4545; March subset n = 1859). The survey assessed demographics, travel purpose, awareness of airport screening (fever screening and PCR testing), pre-travel health awareness, COVID-19 history, and symptoms. Logistic regression evaluated factors associated with self-reported symptoms in the March subset.
Results
Among respondents aware of fever screening and PCR testing, 94.1% and 96.4%, respectively, reported increased attention to their physical condition before travel. Overall, 3.9% reported symptoms, mainly mild respiratory complaints. The proportion symptomatic varied by reason for testing; workplace-mandated testers reported fewer symptoms than family-motivated testers (adjusted odds ratio 0.36, 95% confidence interval 0.15-0.78).
Conclusions
Awareness of voluntary airport screening measures was associated with greater self-reported pre-travel health awareness among voluntary testers. These findings may inform context-specific behavioral strategies aimed at promoting health-conscious travel during infectious disease outbreaks.
{"title":"Pre-travel health awareness and perceptions of voluntary airport PCR testing during COVID-19: A cross-sectional study in Okinawa, Japan","authors":"Masahiro Kozuka , Yusuke Shimakawa , Gerardo Chowell , Tetsuharu Nagamoto , Ryota Matsuyama , Ryosuke Omori , Yining S. Xu , Yoshiro Shimoji , Kaoru Ogawa , Yoshihiro Takayama , Kenji Mizumoto","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100817","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100817","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>During the COVID-19 pandemic, airport-based measures, such as fever screening and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing were implemented in Japan. Okinawa Prefecture introduced a voluntary airport PCR testing program for domestic travelers at Naha Airport (OKA). Their indirect behavioral effects on travelers remain underexplored. This study aims to describe self-reported pre-travel health awareness among participants in this program.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In February-March 2021, we conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire survey among Naha Airport PCR test Project (NAPP) participants (n = 4545; March subset n = 1859). The survey assessed demographics, travel purpose, awareness of airport screening (fever screening and PCR testing), pre-travel health awareness, COVID-19 history, and symptoms. Logistic regression evaluated factors associated with self-reported symptoms in the March subset.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Among respondents aware of fever screening and PCR testing, 94.1% and 96.4%, respectively, reported increased attention to their physical condition before travel. Overall, 3.9% reported symptoms, mainly mild respiratory complaints. The proportion symptomatic varied by reason for testing; workplace-mandated testers reported fewer symptoms than family-motivated testers (adjusted odds ratio 0.36, 95% confidence interval 0.15-0.78).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Awareness of voluntary airport screening measures was associated with greater self-reported pre-travel health awareness among voluntary testers. These findings may inform context-specific behavioral strategies aimed at promoting health-conscious travel during infectious disease outbreaks.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100817"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791400","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-29DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100816
Aristide Mounchili-Njifon , Abdou Fatawou Modiyinji , Pretty Rosereine Mbouyap , Chavely Gwladys Monamele , Moise Henri Moumbeket-Yifomnjou , Philipe Herman Njitoyap Mfombouot , Gisele Liliane Machuetum , Pascal Ibrahim Toueyem , Simon Frederic Lissock , Paul Alain Tagnouokam-Ngoupo , Jean Paul Assam Assam , Richard Njouom
Objectives
NS5B polymerase inhibitors are essential in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Although direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are generally effective, their efficacy can be compromised by resistance mutations, particularly in the NS5B protein. This research aimed to identify naturally occurring mutations in the NS5B gene linked to DAA resistance in treatment-naïve Cameroonian patients with chronic hepatitis C.
Methods
Whole blood samples were collected from patients with chronic hepatitis C, from which plasma was subsequently separated and stored at –80°C for molecular analysis. The NS5B gene fragments were amplified using designated primers, and nucleotide sequences were acquired via the Sanger sequencing platform.
Results
Analysis of sequences revealed three genotypes: genotype 4 (38.49%), genotype 1 (38.38%), and genotype 2 (23.14%). The most prevalent subtypes were 4f (22.05%) and 1e (17.84%). The clinically significant S282T mutation, which confers high-level resistance to sofosbuvir, was detected in one patient infected with HCV genotype 1e. Similarly, the C316N substitution, associated with reduced susceptibility to non-nucleoside NS5B inhibitors, was identified in 16 patients, all belonging to genotype 1e. The Q309R mutation was detected in 19 genotype 1 sequences, and the L320F mutation was found in one genotype 4f sequence.
Conclusions
Our investigation revealed that HCV patients who had not previously received DAA therapy exhibited a variety of NS5B gene alterations. Consequently, future treatment failure may be more likely due to these alterations.
{"title":"Identification of NS5B resistance-associated mutations in hepatitis C virus circulating in treatment-naïve Cameroonian patients","authors":"Aristide Mounchili-Njifon , Abdou Fatawou Modiyinji , Pretty Rosereine Mbouyap , Chavely Gwladys Monamele , Moise Henri Moumbeket-Yifomnjou , Philipe Herman Njitoyap Mfombouot , Gisele Liliane Machuetum , Pascal Ibrahim Toueyem , Simon Frederic Lissock , Paul Alain Tagnouokam-Ngoupo , Jean Paul Assam Assam , Richard Njouom","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100816","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100816","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>NS5B polymerase inhibitors are essential in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Although direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are generally effective, their efficacy can be compromised by resistance mutations, particularly in the NS5B protein. This research aimed to identify naturally occurring mutations in the NS5B gene linked to DAA resistance in treatment-naïve Cameroonian patients with chronic hepatitis C.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Whole blood samples were collected from patients with chronic hepatitis C, from which plasma was subsequently separated and stored at –80°C for molecular analysis. The NS5B gene fragments were amplified using designated primers, and nucleotide sequences were acquired via the Sanger sequencing platform.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Analysis of sequences revealed three genotypes: genotype 4 (38.49%), genotype 1 (38.38%), and genotype 2 (23.14%). The most prevalent subtypes were 4f (22.05%) and 1e (17.84%). The clinically significant S282T mutation, which confers high-level resistance to sofosbuvir, was detected in one patient infected with HCV genotype 1e. Similarly, the C316N substitution, associated with reduced susceptibility to non-nucleoside NS5B inhibitors, was identified in 16 patients, all belonging to genotype 1e. The Q309R mutation was detected in 19 genotype 1 sequences, and the L320F mutation was found in one genotype 4f sequence.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Our investigation revealed that HCV patients who had not previously received DAA therapy exhibited a variety of NS5B gene alterations. Consequently, future treatment failure may be more likely due to these alterations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100816"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-11-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791397","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-29DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100818
Kai Shing Koh , Justin Wong , Liling Chaw
Objectives
We describe the epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) cases in Brunei Darussalam and evaluate factors associated with its treatment outcomes.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from two national databases between January 2013 and December 2022.
Results
We identified 801 anti-HCV-positive cases. Although incidence remained relatively stable, prevalence rates increased from 10.1 to 48.7 per 100,00 population. Among those with detectable HCV RNA, treatment was initiated in 52.3% (n = 239). Locals (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16, 5.36) and age (30-39 years [aOR = 2.41, 95% CI 1.17, 5.07], 40-44 years [aOR = 2.55, 95% CI 1.19, 5.58], and 50-54 years [aOR = 2.76, 95% CI 1.25, 6.24) were associated with treatment initiation. Among those who completed treatment (69.5%, n = 166), 64.5% (n = 107) achieved sustained virologic response. HCV-related complications at baseline were recorded in 7.4% (n = 59) of all cases, particularly among those aged ≥50 years (aOR = 3.32, 95% CI 1.93, 5.79). HCV-related deaths occurred in 36.4% (n = 47), among which 44.7% (n = 21) had HCV-related complications at baseline.
Conclusions
An increasing HCV prevalence (likely due to case management processes and patient-related factors) and the high proportion of deaths with baseline HCV-related complications suggest the need to strengthen HCV screening and management in Brunei.
{"title":"Epidemiology and control of hepatitis C virus infection in Brunei Darussalam: a retrospective cohort study","authors":"Kai Shing Koh , Justin Wong , Liling Chaw","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100818","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100818","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>We describe the epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) cases in Brunei Darussalam and evaluate factors associated with its treatment outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from two national databases between January 2013 and December 2022.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>We identified 801 anti-HCV-positive cases. Although incidence remained relatively stable, prevalence rates increased from 10.1 to 48.7 per 100,00 population. Among those with detectable HCV RNA, treatment was initiated in 52.3% (n = 239). Locals (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16, 5.36) and age (30-39 years [aOR = 2.41, 95% CI 1.17, 5.07], 40-44 years [aOR = 2.55, 95% CI 1.19, 5.58], and 50-54 years [aOR = 2.76, 95% CI 1.25, 6.24) were associated with treatment initiation. Among those who completed treatment (69.5%, n = 166), 64.5% (n = 107) achieved sustained virologic response. HCV-related complications at baseline were recorded in 7.4% (n = 59) of all cases, particularly among those aged ≥50 years (aOR = 3.32, 95% CI 1.93, 5.79). HCV-related deaths occurred in 36.4% (n = 47), among which 44.7% (n = 21) had HCV-related complications at baseline.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>An increasing HCV prevalence (likely due to case management processes and patient-related factors) and the high proportion of deaths with baseline HCV-related complications suggest the need to strengthen HCV screening and management in Brunei.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100818"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-11-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791398","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-27DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100811
Rie Jul Christiansen , Caius Mortensen , Wojciech Cebula , Asta Lili Laugesen , Jacob Fyhring Mortensen , Michael Kemp , Anne Line Engsbro
We present the first Scandinavian cases of bacteremia caused by Ignatzschineria indica, I. ureiclastica, and Wohlfahrtiimonas chitiniclastica. Two patients with fly larvae-infested wounds were admitted to a Danish hospital in the summer of 2024. The first patient, a 62-year-old male with alcohol overuse and septic shock, had W. chitiniclastica and I. ureiclastica bacteremia, managed with piperacillin/tazobactam and ciprofloxacin. The second, a 67-year-old diabetic male with peripheral vascular disease, had I. indica bacteremia requiring below-knee amputation and targeted antibiotics. Both isolates were identified via MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and whole-genome sequencing, with antibiotic “susceptibility testing” guiding therapy. Despite severe presentations, both patients survived. These cases highlight the emergence of these pathogens in Northern Europe and reinforce the importance of advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies in myiasis-associated sepsis.
{"title":"The first report of Ignatzschineria indica, Ignatzschineria ureiclastica and Wohlfahrtiimonas chitiniclastica Bacteremia in two patients with fly larvae-infested wounds in Scandinavia","authors":"Rie Jul Christiansen , Caius Mortensen , Wojciech Cebula , Asta Lili Laugesen , Jacob Fyhring Mortensen , Michael Kemp , Anne Line Engsbro","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100811","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100811","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>We present the first Scandinavian cases of bacteremia caused by <em>Ignatzschineria indica, I. ureiclastica</em>, and <em>Wohlfahrtiimonas chitiniclastica</em>. Two patients with fly larvae-infested wounds were admitted to a Danish hospital in the summer of 2024. The first patient, a 62-year-old male with alcohol overuse and septic shock, had <em>W. chitiniclastica</em> and <em>I. ureiclastica</em> bacteremia, managed with piperacillin/tazobactam and ciprofloxacin. The second, a 67-year-old diabetic male with peripheral vascular disease, had <em>I. indica</em> bacteremia requiring below-knee amputation and targeted antibiotics. Both isolates were identified via MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and whole-genome sequencing, with antibiotic “susceptibility testing” guiding therapy. Despite severe presentations, both patients survived. These cases highlight the emergence of these pathogens in Northern Europe and reinforce the importance of advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies in myiasis-associated sepsis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100811"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-11-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791402","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-25DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100810
Rabbiya Ahmad , Siti Maisharah Sheikh Ghadzi , Narendar Kumar , Syed Azhar Syed Sulaiman , Irfhan Ali Bin Hyder Ali , Fahad Hassan Baali , Abdulkarim Alshammari , Amer Hayat Khan
Objectives
Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) often leads to impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The study evaluates the impact of a pharmacist-led educational counseling intervention on the HRQOL in individuals with PTB.
Methods
This single-blind, randomized controlled trial employed a parallel-group design at a tertiary care hospital in Malaysia. A total of 206 adults diagnosed with PTB were randomized (1:1) to receive either standard care under the directly observed therapy (DOT) strategy (control group) or DOT plus structured pharmacist-led counseling (intervention group) for 6 months. HRQoL was assessed at baseline and at treatment completion using the EQ-5D-3L and visual analog scale (VAS). Data analyses were performed using SPSS.
Results
There was a statistically significant difference between the control group and the intervention group on the quality-of-life scores post-intervention. Baseline HRQoL was comparable between groups (P >0.05). At treatment completion, significant improvements were observed in the intervention group compared with the control group for self-care (P = 0.03), mobility (P = 0.05), and pain/discomfort (P = 0.01). Mean VAS scores were also higher in the intervention group (P <0.001).
Conclusions
Pharmacist-led education and counseling interventions significantly improve the quality of life of patients with PTB.
{"title":"Impact of pharmacist counseling intervention to improve health-related quality of life in pulmonary tuberculosis: a randomized controlled trial","authors":"Rabbiya Ahmad , Siti Maisharah Sheikh Ghadzi , Narendar Kumar , Syed Azhar Syed Sulaiman , Irfhan Ali Bin Hyder Ali , Fahad Hassan Baali , Abdulkarim Alshammari , Amer Hayat Khan","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100810","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100810","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) often leads to impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The study evaluates the impact of a pharmacist-led educational counseling intervention on the HRQOL in individuals with PTB.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This single-blind, randomized controlled trial employed a parallel-group design at a tertiary care hospital in Malaysia. A total of 206 adults diagnosed with PTB were randomized (1:1) to receive either standard care under the directly observed therapy (DOT) strategy (control group) or DOT plus structured pharmacist-led counseling (intervention group) for 6 months. HRQoL was assessed at baseline and at treatment completion using the EQ-5D-3L and visual analog scale (VAS). Data analyses were performed using SPSS.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>There was a statistically significant difference between the control group and the intervention group on the quality-of-life scores post-intervention. Baseline HRQoL was comparable between groups (P >0.05). At treatment completion, significant improvements were observed in the intervention group compared with the control group for self-care (P = 0.03), mobility (P = 0.05), and pain/discomfort (P = 0.01). Mean VAS scores were also higher in the intervention group (P <0.001).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Pharmacist-led education and counseling interventions significantly improve the quality of life of patients with PTB.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100810"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-11-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791399","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
: COVID-19 outbreaks in residential facilities for the elderly can have severe consequences; however, effective preventive strategies remain under-evaluated. This study aimed to identify actionable, facility-level factors associated with outbreak size in such facilities in Okinawa, Japan.
Methods
: We conducted a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study of 78 residential facilities for the elderly that experienced confirmed COVID-19 outbreaks between April and June 2022. Facility-level data on infection-control practices, outbreak characteristics, and staff testing approaches were analyzed using negative binomial regression models to quantify factors associated with outbreak size.
Results
: Outbreaks detected via contact-based testing of staff were significantly smaller than those detected through routine staff reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction screening (adjusted relative risk [aRR]: 0.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03-0.37). Resident mask-wearing was associated with smaller outbreak sizes (aRR: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.16-0.99). Routine screening identified only 16.7% of staff index cases despite being widely implemented, suggesting limitations in effectiveness.
Conclusions
: Risk-based, exposure-driven testing appears markedly more effective than fixed-interval screening for limiting outbreak size in residential facilities for the elderly. Implementation should consider both operational feasibility and support systems for frontline staff.
{"title":"Determinants of COVID-19 outbreak size in elderly residential facilities in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, April to June 2022","authors":"Yining S Xu , Yusuke Shimakawa , Gerardo Chowell , Ryota Matsuyama , Tetsuharu Nagamoto , Ryosuke Omori , Takashi Nakamura , Toru Itokazu , Yoshihiro Takayama , Kenji Mizumoto","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100813","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100813","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div><em>:</em> COVID-19 outbreaks in residential facilities for the elderly can have severe consequences; however, effective preventive strategies remain under-evaluated. This study aimed to identify actionable, facility-level factors associated with outbreak size in such facilities in Okinawa, Japan.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div><em>:</em> We conducted a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study of 78 residential facilities for the elderly that experienced confirmed COVID-19 outbreaks between April and June 2022. Facility-level data on infection-control practices, outbreak characteristics, and staff testing approaches were analyzed using negative binomial regression models to quantify factors associated with outbreak size.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div><em>:</em> Outbreaks detected via contact-based testing of staff were significantly smaller than those detected through routine staff reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction screening (adjusted relative risk [aRR]: 0.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03-0.37). Resident mask-wearing was associated with smaller outbreak sizes (aRR: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.16-0.99). Routine screening identified only 16.7% of staff index cases despite being widely implemented, suggesting limitations in effectiveness.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div><em>:</em> Risk-based, exposure-driven testing appears markedly more effective than fixed-interval screening for limiting outbreak size in residential facilities for the elderly. Implementation should consider both operational feasibility and support systems for frontline staff.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100813"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-11-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145790859","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-25DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100814
Revathy Arushothy , Cheng Ngee Tan , Nur Asyura Nor Amdan , Mohammad Ridhuan Mohd Ali , Ratna Mohd Tap , Prem Ananth Paliappan , Yii Ling Liow , Saraswathiy Maniam , Salina Mohamed Sukur , Rohaidah Hashim
Objectives
Carriage of Streptococcus pneumoniae among children aged <5 years facilitates transmission and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) progression, contributing to global childhood morbidity and mortality. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) can reduce disease and carriage prevalence, though their effectiveness varies by regional serotype distribution. Malaysia introduced PCVs into the National Immunization Program in late 2020, but data on pneumococcal carriage and risk factors in children before vaccine implementation remain limited. This study aims to identify pneumococcal carriage, diversity, and risk factors among the unvaccinated children in Klang Valley, Malaysia.
Methods
A cross-sectional study conducted from August 2018 to May 2019 involved 101 healthy children aged 2-5 years from 30 childcare centers in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Oropharyngeal swabs, which are more acceptable for young children although less sensitive than nasopharyngeal swabs for pneumococcal detection, were collected and enriched in Todd Hewitt Broth before DNA extraction. Carriage was identified using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting lytA gene, with positive samples serotyped using conventional multiplex PCR. Demographic and environmental data from structured questionnaires were analyzed for associations with pneumococcal carriage and multiple serotype colonization using logistic regression, chi-square, and Fisher exact test.
Results
Pneumococcal carriage was detected in 39.6% (n = 40) of children, with 33 distinct serotypes identified. Both vaccine serotypes (VTs) and non-VTs were detected, with 67.5% of carriers colonized by multiple serotypes. Household size >5 members was significantly associated with carriage (adjusted odds ratio 4.62, 95% confidence interval 1.07-23.10, P = 0.047), while no demographic, behavioral, or environmental factors were significantly associated with multiple serotype colonization. VTs detected (19F, 6A/6B, 3, 1, and 5) were previously associated with IPD in Malaysia.
Conclusions
This study provides crucial pre-PCV baseline data on pneumococcal carriage, serotype diversity, and risk factors in children of Klang Valley, Malaysia. The high prevalence of NVTs and frequent co-colonization highlight the need for ongoing surveillance to detect serotype replacement and guide evaluation of higher-valency PCVs. These findings can inform national immunization policy and strengthen strategies for monitoring vaccine impact in Malaysia.
{"title":"Serotype diversity and risk factors for pneumococcal carriage among healthy children in Klang Valley, Malaysia: A pre-vaccination cross-sectional study","authors":"Revathy Arushothy , Cheng Ngee Tan , Nur Asyura Nor Amdan , Mohammad Ridhuan Mohd Ali , Ratna Mohd Tap , Prem Ananth Paliappan , Yii Ling Liow , Saraswathiy Maniam , Salina Mohamed Sukur , Rohaidah Hashim","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100814","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100814","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Carriage of <em>Streptococcus pneumoniae</em> among children aged <5 years facilitates transmission and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) progression, contributing to global childhood morbidity and mortality. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) can reduce disease and carriage prevalence, though their effectiveness varies by regional serotype distribution. Malaysia introduced PCVs into the National Immunization Program in late 2020, but data on pneumococcal carriage and risk factors in children before vaccine implementation remain limited. This study aims to identify pneumococcal carriage, diversity, and risk factors among the unvaccinated children in Klang Valley, Malaysia.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A cross-sectional study conducted from August 2018 to May 2019 involved 101 healthy children aged 2-5 years from 30 childcare centers in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Oropharyngeal swabs, which are more acceptable for young children although less sensitive than nasopharyngeal swabs for pneumococcal detection, were collected and enriched in Todd Hewitt Broth before DNA extraction. Carriage was identified using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting <em>lytA</em> gene, with positive samples serotyped using conventional multiplex PCR. Demographic and environmental data from structured questionnaires were analyzed for associations with pneumococcal carriage and multiple serotype colonization using logistic regression, chi-square, and Fisher exact test.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Pneumococcal carriage was detected in 39.6% (n = 40) of children, with 33 distinct serotypes identified. Both vaccine serotypes (VTs) and non-VTs were detected, with 67.5% of carriers colonized by multiple serotypes. Household size >5 members was significantly associated with carriage (adjusted odds ratio 4.62, 95% confidence interval 1.07-23.10, <em>P</em> = 0.047), while no demographic, behavioral, or environmental factors were significantly associated with multiple serotype colonization. VTs detected (19F, 6A/6B, 3, 1, and 5) were previously associated with IPD in Malaysia.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study provides crucial pre-PCV baseline data on pneumococcal carriage, serotype diversity, and risk factors in children of Klang Valley, Malaysia. The high prevalence of NVTs and frequent co-colonization highlight the need for ongoing surveillance to detect serotype replacement and guide evaluation of higher-valency PCVs. These findings can inform national immunization policy and strengthen strategies for monitoring vaccine impact in Malaysia.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100814"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-11-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145737905","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-24DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100812
Zoungrana Jacques , Sawadogo Abdoulaye , SIB Tôh , Zongo-Napon P. Delphine , Diendere E. Arnaud , Some Dogbèponé , Ouedraogo G Arsène , Diallo Ismael , Savadogo Mamoudou , Sondo K. Apoline , Poda Armel , Sawadogo Appolinaire
Objective
To describe hepatic cytolysis in patients hospitalized for dengue at the Sourô Sanou University Hospital in Bobo-Dioulasso.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and analytical study conducted over 3 months. All patients hospitalized for dengue during this timeframe were included. Data were collected using the KoBoCollect v1.30.1 application and analyzed with Epi Info software.
Results
A total of 256 patients were included. The mean age was 38.10 ± 16.28 years. Elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were observed in 72.26% and 46.85% of patients, respectively. A reduced prothrombin time was noted in 4.68% of cases, and unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia in 3.9%. Patients with hypertension had a 2.3-fold higher risk of developing hepatic cytolysis. The median length of hospital stay was five days. The case-fatality rate was 7.03%. Transaminase levels normalized in 95.5% of cases, with a mean recovery time of 13 days.
Conclusions
Hepatic cytolysis is a common complication of severe dengue. Its clinical course is generally favorable. Hypertension appears to be a significant risk factor for the development of this liver injury.
{"title":"Clinical and biological features of acute hepatic cytolysis in dengue fever: a study from Sourô Sanou University hospital, Bobo-Dioulasso","authors":"Zoungrana Jacques , Sawadogo Abdoulaye , SIB Tôh , Zongo-Napon P. Delphine , Diendere E. Arnaud , Some Dogbèponé , Ouedraogo G Arsène , Diallo Ismael , Savadogo Mamoudou , Sondo K. Apoline , Poda Armel , Sawadogo Appolinaire","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100812","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100812","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To describe hepatic cytolysis in patients hospitalized for dengue at the Sourô Sanou University Hospital in Bobo-Dioulasso.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and analytical study conducted over 3 months. All patients hospitalized for dengue during this timeframe were included. Data were collected using the KoBoCollect v1.30.1 application and analyzed with Epi Info software.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 256 patients were included. The mean age was 38.10 ± 16.28 years. Elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were observed in 72.26% and 46.85% of patients, respectively. A reduced prothrombin time was noted in 4.68% of cases, and unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia in 3.9%. Patients with hypertension had a 2.3-fold higher risk of developing hepatic cytolysis. The median length of hospital stay was five days. The case-fatality rate was 7.03%. Transaminase levels normalized in 95.5% of cases, with a mean recovery time of 13 days.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Hepatic cytolysis is a common complication of severe dengue. Its clinical course is generally favorable. Hypertension appears to be a significant risk factor for the development of this liver injury.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100812"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-11-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791401","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
扫码关注我们
求助内容：
应助结果提醒方式：
京公网安备 11010802042870号