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Hungwe FTT, Laycock KM, Ntereke TD, Mabaka R, Paganotti GM. A historical perspective on arboviruses of public health interest in Southern Africa. Pathog Glob Health 2024; 118:131-159. [PMID: 38082563 PMCID: PMC11141323 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2023.2290375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Arboviruses are an existing and expanding threat globally, with the potential for causing devastating health and socioeconomic impacts. Mitigating this threat necessitates a One Health approach that integrates vector surveillance, rapid disease detection, and innovative prevention and control measures. In Southern Africa, limited data on the epidemiology of arboviruses, their vectors, and their hosts prevent an effective response. We reviewed the current knowledge on arboviruses in Southern Africa and identified opportunities for further research. A literature search was conducted to identify studies published on arboviruses in 10 tropical and temperate countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) from 1900 onward. We identified 280 studies, half (51.1%) originating from South Africa, that described 31 arboviral species, their vectors, and their clinical effects on hosts reported in the region. Arboviral research flourished in the SADC in the mid-20th century but then declined, before reemerging in the last two decades. Recent research consists largely of case reports describing outbreaks. Historical vector surveillance and serosurveys from the mid-20th century suggest that arboviruses are plentiful across Southern Africa, but large gaps remain in the current understanding of arboviral distribution, transmission dynamics, and public health impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith T. T. Hungwe
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katherine M. Laycock
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Rorisang Mabaka
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Giacomo M. Paganotti
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
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Doğan S, Mohamud SM, Mohamud RYH, Ali Orey AM, Orhan Z. Distribution of the Intestinal Parasites According to Species and Gender in Patients Presented to the Microbiology Laboratory in a Tertiary Hospital, in Somalia Between January 2018 and October 2022. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:7007-7014. [PMID: 37933295 PMCID: PMC10625774 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s434214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose In this study, it was aimed to determine the 5-year prevalence of intestinal parasites in patients admitted to the Microbiology laboratory of a tertiary hospital in Somalia. Intestinal parasites; Types of patients, age and sex of the patients, and the distribution by years were examined. Patients and Methods Stool samples were examined using wet preparation, native lugol and trichrome staining methods. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS V23 software and a P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Tables and figures were used to show the results. Results One or more parasites were detected in 6766 of 56,824 stool samples examined. It was observed that Giardia lamblia had a higher prevalence than other parasites (60.84%) in a five-year period. Entamoeba histolytica (33.07%) second rank and Ascaris lumbricoides (3.18%) third rank according to their prevalence. When the distribution of the parasite population by gender is evaluated; no statistically significant difference was found (p = 0.235). When the frequency of parasites was evaluated according to age groups, it was seen that the prevalence of parasites between the ages of 0-15 was higher (45.5%) compared to other age groups. A statistically significant difference was found between the distribution of parasite groups according to age groups (p < 0.001). Conclusion Considering the effects of intestinal parasites on public health, it is still considered to be an important health problem for developing countries. It is thought that the frequency of parasitic diseases in society will decrease with the education of individuals, effective diagnosis, treatment, and implementation of preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serpil Doğan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mogadishu Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Medical Microbiology Laboratory, Mogadishu, Somalia
| | - Said Mohamed Mohamud
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mogadishu Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Medical Microbiology Laboratory, Mogadishu, Somalia
| | - Rahma Yusuf Haji Mohamud
- Department of Education, Mogadishu Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Department of Education, Mogadishu, Somalia
| | - Ahmed Mohamed Ali Orey
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Mogadishu Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Department of Infectious Diseases, Mogadishu, Somalia
| | - Zerife Orhan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Kahramanmaraş Sütçü Imam University, Vocational School of Health Services, Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye
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Menadi SE, Chisu V, Santucciu C, Di Domenico M, Curini V, Masala G. Serological, Molecular Prevalence and Genotyping of Coxiella burnetii in Dairy Cattle Herds in Northeastern Algeria. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9020040. [PMID: 35202293 PMCID: PMC8874956 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9020040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In Algeria, data on the epidemiology of coxiellosis in cattle are still lacking. In this study, bulk tank milk (BTM) samples from 200 randomly selected dairy cattle herds from Setif province of Algeria were analyzed by an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results highlighted that 37% (95% CI: 30.31–43.69%) and 9% (95% CI: 5.03–12.96%) of BTM samples contained Coxiella burnetii antibodies and DNA, respectively. Based on Cohen’s kappa coefficient, a very low agreement between the ELISA and PCR results was found (k = 0.0849) (95% CI: 0.00–0.189). For a second experiment, 186 whole blood samples of cows from farms with reproduction disorders were analyzed by molecular tools to detect C. burnetii. This study revealed an overall prevalence of 6.98% (95% CI: 3.32–10.65%). All positive samples determined by conventional PCR were analyzed by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR). Eleven samples with cycle threshold (Ct) values lower than 35 were selected for genotyping by the multispacer sequence typing (MST) method. The MST12 genotype in BTM samples, the MST32 genotype and a new MST genotype (partial profile) in whole blood samples were identified. Obtained results have allowed us to better understand the epidemiology of bovine coxiellosis in the region of Setif.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salah Eddine Menadi
- Research Laboratory Management of Local Animal Resources, High National Veterinary School “RABIE BOUCHAMA”, Street Issad Abbes, Oued Smar, Algiers 16270, Algeria;
| | - Valentina Chisu
- Zoonotic Pathology and OIE Reference Laboratory for Echinococcosis, National Reference Center for Echinococcosis (CeNRE), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.S.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Cinzia Santucciu
- Zoonotic Pathology and OIE Reference Laboratory for Echinococcosis, National Reference Center for Echinococcosis (CeNRE), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.S.); (G.M.)
| | - Marco Di Domenico
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (M.D.D.); (V.C.)
| | - Valentina Curini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (M.D.D.); (V.C.)
| | - Giovanna Masala
- Zoonotic Pathology and OIE Reference Laboratory for Echinococcosis, National Reference Center for Echinococcosis (CeNRE), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.S.); (G.M.)
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Loss SR, Noden BH, Fuhlendorf SD. Woody plant encroachment and the ecology of vector‐borne diseases. J Appl Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Scott R. Loss
- Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management Oklahoma State University Stillwater OK USA
| | - Bruce H. Noden
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology Oklahoma State University Stillwater OK USA
| | - Samuel D. Fuhlendorf
- Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management Oklahoma State University Stillwater OK USA
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Ledda S, Santucciu C, Chisu V, Masala G. Validation of a Novel Commercial ELISA Test for the Detection of Antibodies against Coxiella burnetii. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9121075. [PMID: 33371440 PMCID: PMC7767449 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9121075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Q fever is a zoonosis caused by Coxiella burnetii, a Gram-negative pathogen with a complex life cycle and a high impact on public and animal health all over the world. The symptoms are indistinguishable from those belonging to other diseases, and the disease could be symptomless. For these reasons, reliable laboratory tests are essential for an accurate diagnosis. The aim of this study was to validate a novel enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test, named the Chorus Q Fever Phase II IgG and IgM Kit (DIESSE, Diagnostica Senese S.p.A), which is performed by an instrument named Chorus, a new device in medical diagnostics. This diagnostic test is employed for the detection of antibodies against C. burnetii Phase II antigens in acute disease. Our validation protocol was performed according to the Italian Accreditation Body (ACCREDIA) (Regulation UNI CEI EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018 and 17043:2010), OIE (World Organization for Animal Health), and Statement for Reporting Studies of Diagnostic Accuracy (STARD). Operator performance was evaluated along with the analytical specificity and sensitivity (ASp and ASe) and diagnostic accuracy of the kit, with parameters such as diagnostic specificity and sensitivity (DSp and DSe) and positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV), in addition to the repeatability. According to the evaluated parameters, the diagnostic ELISA test was shown to be suitable for validation and commercialization as a screening method in human sera and a valid support for clinical diagnostics.
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Latif AA, Nkabinde B, Peba B, Matthee O, Pienaar R, Josemans A, Marumo D, Labuschagne K, Abdelatief NA, Krüger A, Mans BJ. Risk of establishment of canine leishmaniasis infection through the import of dogs into South Africa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 86:e1-e11. [PMID: 31170780 PMCID: PMC6556918 DOI: 10.4102/ojvr.v86i1.1634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Canine leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania that affect dogs, humans and wildlife. Sandflies of the genera Phlebotomus and Lutzomyia are the primary vectors. Canine leishmaniasis is an exotic and controlled disease in South Africa. The main purpose of our risk assessment study was to evaluate the likelihood that this exotic disease could enter and be established in South Africa through importation of live dogs. Risk analysis to the spread of the disease follows the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) formal method of quantitative risk assessment documented as a step-by-step process. We have identified and discussed 11 possible risk factors involved in three steps for final assessment. The annual average number of diagnostic tests performed on imported dogs from 44 countries for 2011-2015 was 1158. Leishmania is reported to occur in 21/44 (47.7%) exporting countries. A total of 71.1% of Leishmania positive dogs were imported from these endemic countries. The yearly percentage of Leishmania positive dogs ranged from 0.2% to 2%. Three confirmed clinical and fatal cases of leishmaniasis in dogs of unidentified origin have been reported by our laboratory and the state veterinarians. The disease has been reported in neighbouring countries as well as the putative sandfly vectors. This study concluded that the risk for the introduction and degree of uncertainty of Leishmania in imported dogs in South Africa are moderate. Risk mitigation and recommendations such as investigations into possible occurrence of autochthonous leishmaniasis in the country, surveillance in its wildlife reservoirs and systematic surveillance of sandfly populations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdalla A Latif
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.
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Siqueira LDP, Fontes DAF, Aguilera CSB, Timóteo TRR, Ângelos MA, Silva LCPBB, de Melo CG, Rolim LA, da Silva RMF, Neto PJR. Schistosomiasis: Drugs used and treatment strategies. Acta Trop 2017; 176:179-187. [PMID: 28803725 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect millions of people in different geographic regions, especially the poorest and most vulnerable. Currently NTDs are prevalent in 149 countries, seventeen of these neglected tropical parasitic diseases are classified as endemic. One of the most important of these diseases is schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, a disease caused by the genus Schistosoma. It presents several species, such as Schistosoma haematobium, Schistosoma japonicum and Schistosoma mansoni, the latter being responsible for parasitosis in Brazil. Contamination occurs through exposure to contaminated water in the endemic region. This parasitosis is characterized by being initially asymptomatic, but it is able to evolve into more severe clinical forms, potentially causing death. Globally, more than 200 million people are infected with one of three Schistosome species, including an estimated 40 million women of reproductive age. In Brazil, about 12 million children require preventive chemotherapy with anthelmintic. However, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), only about 15% of the at-risk children receive regular treatment. The lack of investment by the pharmaceutical industry for the development and/or improvement of new pharmaceutical forms, mainly aimed at the pediatric public, is a great challenge. Currently, the main forms of treatment used for schistosomiasis are praziquantel (PZQ) and oxaminiquine (OXA). PZQ is the drug of choice because it presents as a high-spectrum anthelmintic, used in the treatment of all known species of schistosomiasis and some species of cestodes and trematodes. OXA, however, is not active against the three Schistosome species. This work presents a literature review regarding schistosomiasis. It addresses points such as available treatments, the role of the pharmaceutical industry against neglected diseases, and perspectives for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidiany da Paixão Siqueira
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Professor Artur de Sá, CEP 50740-521, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Danilo Augusto Ferreira Fontes
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Professor Artur de Sá, CEP 50740-521, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Cindy Siqueira Britto Aguilera
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Professor Artur de Sá, CEP 50740-521, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Taysa Renata Ribeiro Timóteo
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Professor Artur de Sá, CEP 50740-521, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Matheus Alves Ângelos
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Professor Artur de Sá, CEP 50740-521, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Laysa Creusa Paes Barreto Barros Silva
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Professor Artur de Sá, CEP 50740-521, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Camila Gomes de Melo
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Professor Artur de Sá, CEP 50740-521, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Larissa Araújo Rolim
- Central de Análise de Fármacos, Medicamentos e Alimentos da Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco, Avenida José de Sá Maniçoba, CEP 56304-917, Petrolina, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Rosali Maria Ferreira da Silva
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Professor Artur de Sá, CEP 50740-521, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Pedro José Rolim Neto
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Avenida Professor Artur de Sá, CEP 50740-521, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
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Essbauer S, Hofmann M, Kleinemeier C, Wölfel S, Matthee S. Rickettsia diversity in southern Africa: A small mammal perspective. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 9:288-301. [PMID: 29174365 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, including Africa, rickettsioses are recognized as emerging or re-emerging infections. To date, little is known about the diversity of Rickettsia species that are naturally associated with small mammals in southern Africa. The aim of the study was to screen a diversity of small mammals for the presence of rickettsial DNA. Animals were trapped at 38 localities in South Africa and Namibia. In total, 1616 ear-tissue samples from 23 species representing 17 genera were tested using real-time (rt)PCR and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST). Of the 1616 samples 251 (15.5%) were positive in an initial rtPCR. In 16 of the 23 investigated animal species rickettsial DNA was detected with an average prevalence of 15.7%. We herein describe for the first time four Rickettsia (R.) species known to be pathogenic for humans in rodents from South Africa, R. conorii, R. massiliae, R. felis and R. helvetica. In addition, by MLST and subsequent phylogenetic analyses so far undescribed Rickettsia species, Candidatus Rickettsia africaustralis, Candidatus Rickettsia rhabdomydis, and Candidatus Rickettsia muridii were confirmed. Further four new genotypes, genotype Rickettsia hofmannii, genotype Rickettsia stutterheimensis, genotype Rickettsia hogsbackensis and genotype Rickettsia kaalplaasensis, respectively, are described. The data indicate a surprisingly high diversity of Rickettsia in small mammals in South Africa and might indicate their possible role as reservoirs for Rickettsia. Ecological questions concerning their natural hosts such as small mammals, but also the role of livestock or pet animals, require further investigation. Particularly, data on the relevance of these rickettsiae for diseases in humans are of further interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Essbauer
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstr. 11, 80937 Muenchen, Germany.
| | - Mirja Hofmann
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstr. 11, 80937 Muenchen, Germany
| | - Christoph Kleinemeier
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstr. 11, 80937 Muenchen, Germany
| | - Silke Wölfel
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstr. 11, 80937 Muenchen, Germany
| | - Sonja Matthee
- Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
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Krüger A. Phlebotomine sandflies of Botswana: a taxonomic review and a faunistic update with the first record of genus Phlebotomus. Acta Trop 2017; 171:96-100. [PMID: 28322728 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The first records of phlebotomine sandflies from Botswana have been published only recently, comprising of four species of genus Sergentomyia. This update presents the first record of genus Phlebotomus, namely Ph. (Anaphlebotomus) rodhaini Parrot, which is also the first detection of a putative vector of leishmaniasis in Botswana. In addition, records of the Sergentomyia "bedfordi (Newstead) group" are reviewed, and the molecular taxonomy of all taxa known from Botswana is analysed based on three mitochondrial gene fragments (mtDNA). The presence of Se. congolensis (Bequaert and Walrveus) and Se. salisburiensis (Abonnenc) is confirmed, whereas the previously mentioned Se. caliginosa Davidson and unassigned specimens of the "bedfordi group" are proposed to belong to the tentatively named Se. bedfordi "Maun" form. The mtDNA analyses confirmed the species delimitations. For the first time, portions of the ND5 gene were used for the purpose of sandfly molecular taxonomy. This gene revealed a high inter-specific variability and may thus be applied as an alternative molecular marker for future studies.
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Gyang VP, Chuang TW, Liao CW, Lee YL, Akinwale OP, Orok A, Ajibaye O, Babasola AJ, Cheng PC, Chou CM, Huang YC, Sonko P, Fan CK. Intestinal parasitic infections: Current status and associated risk factors among school aged children in an archetypal African urban slum in Nigeria. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2017; 52:106-113. [PMID: 28711437 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2016.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) among school aged children (SAC) in Nigeria remains endemic, hence the need for regular surveillance to attract the attention of policy makers. This cross-sectional study investigated the current prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections among school aged children in an urban slum of Lagos City, Nigeria. METHODS Single stool samples from 384 school aged children (188 boys and 196 girls) were examined by employing Merthiolate-iodine-formaldehyde concentration (MIFC) and Kato-Katz methods. Demographic characteristics and risk factors were obtained by questionnaires investigation. RESULTS The overall prevalence was 86.2% in school children, out of them 39.1% had polyparasitism. IPIs showed the highest to the lowest prevalence of 62% (238/384), 25% (97/384), 12.3% (47/384), 11.8% (45/384), 9.9% (38/384), 8.4% (32/384), 3.4% (13/384), and 0.5% (2/384) found in Ascaris lumbricoides, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Giardia duodenalis, Endolimax nana, Entamoeba coli, Trichuris trichiura, Blastocystis hominis, and hookworm infections, respectively. MIFC technique showed superiority to Kato-Katz technique in the detection of IPIs (p < 0.0001). Drinking untreated water was a significant risk factor for these school aged children in acquiring protozoan infections after multivariate adjustment (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.08-3.20, p = 0.02). CONCLUSION Intestinal parasitic infections are very severe among school aged children in the urban slums, thus regular mass de-worming programs, health education, and the provision of safe drinking water is recommended to combat IPIs among the school aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent P Gyang
- Public Health Division, Molecular Parasitology Research Laboratory, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Ting-Wu Chuang
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wei Liao
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Lun Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Olaoluwa P Akinwale
- Public Health Division, Molecular Parasitology Research Laboratory, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Akwaowo Orok
- Biochemistry and Nutrition Division, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Olusola Ajibaye
- Biochemistry and Nutrition Division, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Ajayi J Babasola
- Science Laboratory Department, Ogun State Institute of Technology, Igbesa, Ogun state, Nigeria
| | - Po-Ching Cheng
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Mei Chou
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chieh Huang
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pasaiko Sonko
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Kwung Fan
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Master Program in Global Health and Development, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Stothard JR, Campbell SJ, Osei-Atweneboana MY, Durant T, Stanton MC, Biritwum NK, Rollinson D, Ombede DRE, Tchuem-Tchuenté LA. Towards interruption of schistosomiasis transmission in sub-Saharan Africa: developing an appropriate environmental surveillance framework to guide and to support 'end game' interventions. Infect Dis Poverty 2017; 6:10. [PMID: 28088239 PMCID: PMC5237522 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-016-0215-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a waterborne parasitic disease in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly common in rural populations living in impoverished conditions. With the scale-up of preventive chemotherapy, national campaigns will transition from morbidity- to transmission-focused interventions thus formal investigation of actual or expected declines in environmental transmission is needed as 'end game' scenarios arise. Surprisingly, there are no international or national guidelines to do so in sub-Saharan Africa. Our article therefore provides an introduction to key practicalities and pitfalls in the development of an appropriate environmental surveillance framework. In this context, we discuss how strategies need to be adapted and tailored to the local level to better guide and support future interventions through this transition. As detection of egg-patent infection in people becomes rare, careful sampling of schistosome larvae in freshwater and in aquatic snails with robust species-specific DNA assays will be required. Appropriate metrics, derived from observed prevalence(s) as compared with predetermined thresholds, could each provide a clearer insight into contamination- and exposure-related dynamics. Application could be twofold, first to certify areas currently free from schistosomiasis transmission or second to red-flag recalcitrant locations where extra effort or alternative interventions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Russell Stothard
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA UK
| | - Suzy J. Campbell
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA UK
| | - Mike Y. Osei-Atweneboana
- Department of Environmental Biology and Health, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research-Water Research Insitute, P.O. Box M 32, Accra, Ghana
| | - Timothy Durant
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA UK
| | - Michelle C. Stanton
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA UK
| | | | - David Rollinson
- Department of Life Sciences; Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD UK
| | - Dieudonné R. Eloundou Ombede
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Louis-Albert Tchuem-Tchuenté
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- National Programme for the Control of Schistosomiasis and Intestinal Helminthiasis, Ministry of Public Health, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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12
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Hall MJR, Wall RL, Stevens JR. Traumatic Myiasis: A Neglected Disease in a Changing World. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ENTOMOLOGY 2015; 61:159-76. [PMID: 26667275 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ento-010715-023655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic myiasis, the parasitic infestation by fly larvae in traumatic lesions of the tissues of living vertebrates, is a serious medical condition in humans and a welfare and economic issue in domestic animals. New molecular studies are providing insights into its evolution and epidemiology. Nevertheless, its incidence in humans is generally underreported, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Myiasis in domestic animals has been studied more extensively, but continuous management is difficult and expensive. A key concern is the inadvertent introduction and global spread of agents of myiasis into nonendemic areas, facilitated by climate change and global transport. The incursion of the New World screwworm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) into Libya is the most notable of many such range shifts and demonstrates the potential risks of these parasites and the costs of removing them once established in a geographic area. Nevertheless, the insect agents of myiasis can be of societal benefit to forensic science and in medicine as an aid to wound treatment (larval therapy).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin J R Hall
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD, United Kingdom;
| | - Richard L Wall
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TQ, United Kingdom;
| | - Jamie R Stevens
- Department of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, United Kingdom;
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Noden BH, Soni M. Vector-borne diseases of small companion animals in Namibia: Literature review, knowledge gaps and opportunity for a One Health approach. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2015; 86:1307. [PMID: 26824340 PMCID: PMC6138184 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v86i1.1307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Namibia has a rich history in veterinary health but little is known about the vector-borne diseases that affect companion dogs and cats. The aim of this review is to summarise the existing published and available unpublished literature, put it into a wider geographical context, and explore some significant knowledge gaps. To date, only two filarial pathogens (Dirofilaria repens and Acanthocheilonema dracunculoides) and three tick-borne pathogens (Babesia canis vogeli, Hepatozoon canis and Ehrlichia canis) have been reported. Most studies have focused solely on dogs and cats in the urban Windhoek and surrounding areas, with almost nothing reported in rural farming areas, in either the populous northern regions or the low-income urban areas where animal owners have limited access to veterinary services. With the development of several biomedical training programmes in the country, there is now an excellent opportunity to address zoonotic vector-borne diseases through a One Health approach so as to assess the risks to small companion animals as well as diseases of public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce H Noden
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University.
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Sousa-Figueiredo JC, Stanton MC, Katokele S, Arinaitwe M, Adriko M, Balfour L, Reiff M, Lancaster W, Noden BH, Bock R, Stothard JR. Mapping of Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Namibia: The First Large-Scale Protocol to Formally Include Rapid Diagnostic Tests. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015. [PMID: 26196386 PMCID: PMC4509651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Namibia is now ready to begin mass drug administration of praziquantel and albendazole against schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths, respectively. Although historical data identifies areas of transmission of these neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), there is a need to update epidemiological data. For this reason, Namibia adopted a new protocol for mapping of schistosomiasis and geohelminths, formally integrating rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for infections and morbidity. In this article, we explain the protocol in detail, and introduce the concept of ‘mapping resolution’, as well as present results and treatment recommendations for northern Namibia. Methods/Findings/Interpretation This new protocol allowed a large sample to be surveyed (N = 17 896 children from 299 schools) at relatively low cost (7 USD per person mapped) and very quickly (28 working days). All children were analysed by RDTs, but only a sub-sample was also diagnosed by light microscopy. Overall prevalence of schistosomiasis in the surveyed areas was 9.0%, highly associated with poorer access to potable water (OR = 1.5, P<0.001) and defective (OR = 1.2, P<0.001) or absent sanitation infrastructure (OR = 2.0, P<0.001). Overall prevalence of geohelminths, more particularly hookworm infection, was 12.2%, highly associated with presence of faecal occult blood (OR = 1.9, P<0.001). Prevalence maps were produced and hot spots identified to better guide the national programme in drug administration, as well as targeted improvements in water, sanitation and hygiene. The RDTs employed (circulating cathodic antigen and microhaematuria for Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium, respectively) performed well, with sensitivities above 80% and specificities above 95%. Conclusion/Significance This protocol is cost-effective and sensitive to budget limitations and the potential economic and logistical strains placed on the national Ministries of Health. Here we present a high resolution map of disease prevalence levels, and treatment regimens are recommended. Historical data indicates Namibia, particularly northern Namibia, as endemic for geohelminths and schistosomiasis, albeit to a lower extent than other areas in Sub-Saharan Africa. The National Ministry of Health and Social Services, with extensive backing from other governmental and non-governmental organizations, investigated the extent of the problem in preparation for deployment of a control programme. Using a cost-effective strategy, a new generation protocol was developed for mapping these important neglected tropical diseases, bolstering field-standard microscopy results with those from commercially available rapid diagnostic tests. The protocol used increased the mapping coverage (one in every four schools mapped) with minimal added cost. Results from our surveys, which included 17 896 school-going children (3–19 years of age), identified hotspots of transmission for schistosomiasis and geohelminths, particularly hookworm infection, and allowed the recommendation of constituency- and region- specific treatment regimens, as well as improvements to water, sanitation and hygiene. Furthermore, we identified high levels of intestinal morbidity, believed to be associated with hookworm and Hymenolepis nana infections, and lower levels of urogenital pathology, associated with Schistosoma haematobium infection. A cost-effectiveness analysis is also presented in addition to reporting the diagnostic accuracy of the rapid diagnostic tests employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Carlos Sousa-Figueiredo
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Angola (Health Research Center in Angola), Rua direita do Caxito, Hospital Provincial, Bengo, Angola
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle C. Stanton
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Stark Katokele
- Namibia Ministry of Health and Social Services, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Moses Arinaitwe
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Adriko
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lexi Balfour
- The END Fund, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Mark Reiff
- The END Fund, New York, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Bruce H. Noden
- Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Ronnie Bock
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - J. Russell Stothard
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Noden BH, Tshavuka FI, van der Colf BE, Chipare I, Wilkinson R. Exposure and risk factors to coxiella burnetii, spotted fever group and typhus group Rickettsiae, and Bartonella henselae among volunteer blood donors in Namibia. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108674. [PMID: 25259959 PMCID: PMC4178180 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of pathogen-mediated febrile illness in sub-Saharan Africa is receiving more attention, especially in Southern Africa where four countries (including Namibia) are actively working to eliminate malaria. With a high concentration of livestock and high rates of companion animal ownership, the influence of zoonotic bacterial diseases as causes of febrile illness in Namibia remains unknown. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The aim of the study was to evaluate exposure to Coxiella burnetii, spotted fever and typhus group rickettsiae, and Bartonella henselae using IFA and ELISA (IgG) in serum collected from 319 volunteer blood donors identified by the Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia (NAMBTS). Serum samples were linked to a basic questionnaire to identify possible risk factors. The majority of the participants (64.8%) had extensive exposure to rural areas or farms. Results indicated a C. burnetii prevalence of 26.1% (screening titre 1∶16), and prevalence rates of 11.9% and 14.9% (screening titre 1∶100) for spotted fever group and typhus group rickettsiae, respectively. There was a significant spatial association between C. burnetii exposure and place of residence in southern Namibia (P<0.021). Donors with occupations involving animals (P>0.012), especially cattle (P>0.006), were also significantly associated with C. burnetii exposure. Males were significantly more likely than females to have been exposed to spotted fever (P<0.013) and typhus (P<0.011) group rickettsiae. Three (2.9%) samples were positive for B. henselae possibly indicating low levels of exposure to a pathogen never reported in Namibia. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE These results indicate that Namibians are exposed to pathogenic fever-causing bacteria, most of which have flea or tick vectors/reservoirs. The epidemiology of febrile illnesses in Namibia needs further evaluation in order to develop comprehensive local diagnostic and treatment algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce H. Noden
- Department of Biomedical Science, Polytechnic of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | | | | | | | - Rob Wilkinson
- Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
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Risk assessment of flavivirus transmission in Namibia. Acta Trop 2014; 137:123-9. [PMID: 24865792 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2014.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Revised: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The role of arboviruses causing acute febrile illness in sub-Saharan Africa is receiving more attention. Reports of dengue in tourists were published nearly 10 years ago in Namibia, but the current epidemiology of arboviruses is unknown and surveys of mosquito vectors have not been carried out since the 1950s. To begin addressing this knowledge gap, a prospective cross-sectional study was conducted using samples from volunteer blood donors linked to questionnaire. Serum samples were tested using a Dengue IgG Indirect ELISA which measured exposure to dengue virus/flaviviruses. Entomological samples were collected from tires during the rainy season (February-March 2012) in six locations across Namibia's capital city, Windhoek. Among 312 blood donors tested, 25 (8.0%) were positive for dengue virus/flavivirus exposure. The only significant risk factor was age group with high exposure rates among those older than 50 (29%) compared with those below 40 years old (between 2.9% and 8.3%) (P<0.002). Larvae and pupae of Aedes aegypti and Culex pipiens complex accounted for 100% of the 2751 samples collected, of which only 12.2% (n=336) were Ae. aegypti. Each site demonstrated high variability of species composition between sampling times. While the significant dengue virus/flavivirus exposure rate among those above 50 years old is likely indicative of the West Nile epidemic in the 70s and 80s, the low exposure among those under 50 suggests that flaviviruses are still circulating in Namibia. While Ae. aegypti and C. pipiens sp. may play a role in future epidemics, the significance of presence may be reduced due to short rain periods, dry, arid, cold winters and policies and social understandings that limit non-structured storage and use of tires in low income areas. Future studies should further characterize the circulating arboviruses and investigate mosquito ecology nationally to map areas at higher risk for future arbovirus outbreaks.
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Monaco F, Pinoni C, Cosseddu GM, Khaiseb S, Calistri P, Molini U, Bishi A, Conte A, Scacchia M, Lelli R. Rift Valley fever in Namibia, 2010. Emerg Infect Dis 2014; 19:2025-7. [PMID: 24274469 PMCID: PMC3840870 DOI: 10.3201/eid1912.130593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During May-July 2010 in Namibia, outbreaks of Rift Valley fever were reported to the National Veterinary Service. Analysis of animal specimens confirmed virus circulation on 7 farms. Molecular characterization showed that all outbreaks were caused by a strain of Rift Valley fever virus closely related to virus strains responsible for outbreaks in South Africa during 2009-2010.
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Santos NDDL, Paixão KDS, Napoleão TH, Trindade PB, Pinto MR, Coelho LCBB, Eiras ÁE, Navarro DMDAF, Paiva PMG. Evaluation of Moringa oleifera seed lectin in traps for the capture of Aedes aegypti eggs and adults under semi-field conditions. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:1837-42. [PMID: 24604386 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3830-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The water-soluble lectin isolated from Moringa oleifera seeds (WSMoL) is a larvicidal, ovicidal, and oviposition-stimulating agent against Aedes aegypti under laboratory conditions. This study investigated the effect of WSMoL in traps for the capture of A. aegypti eggs and adult females under semi-field conditions and determined whether gravid females could detect WSMoL by an olfactory response. WSMoL was isolated according to a previously described procedure using chitin chromatography. The bioassays were performed in large cages (12.5 m(3)). Two traps for collection of eggs (ovitrap) or adult mosquitoes (MosquiTRAP(TM)) were placed in a cage. One was filled with WSMoL (0.1 mg/mL) and the other with tap water (negative control). An infusion of Panicum maximum leaves was used as a positive control. Forty gravid females were then released in each cage. After 2 (for oviposition) or 3 h (for female capture), the traps were removed, and the number of eggs or females was counted. An olfactometry assay was performed to investigate whether the effect of WSMoL on gravid females was linked to an olfactory response. WSMoL showed an oviposition-stimulating effect (65 ± 14%) that was similar (p < 0.05) to that promoted by the P. maximum infusion (67 ± 11%). The efficiency of MosquiTRAP(TM) in capturing gravid females was not increased by WSMoL. The olfactometry assay indicated that the response of females to WSMoL did not involve the stimulation of olfactory sensilla. WSMoL effectively captured eggs when used in ovitraps under semi-field conditions; this property, together with the ovicidal and larvicidal activities of this lectin, makes it an interesting candidate for A. aegypti control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Diniz de Lima Santos
- Departamento de Bioquímica, CCB, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Cidade Universitária, 50670-420, Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil
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Sargianou M, Papa A. Epidemiological and behavioral factors associated with Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus infections in humans. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2013; 11:897-908. [PMID: 24053271 DOI: 10.1586/14787210.2013.827890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), a viral disease with high fatality rate, is endemic in many countries in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa. It is transmitted to humans either by tick bite or by direct contact with blood or tissues of viremic patients or livestock. Aim of the present study was to review the main epidemiological characteristics of the disease worldwide, with special attempt to show the epidemiological and behavioral factors that play a role in acquisition of the infection. It is obvious that these factors differ among countries, and the knowledge and understanding of the transmission routes in each region facilitates the implementation of proper control measures, the awareness enhancement and the prevention of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Sargianou
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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