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Ho KMA, Baggaley RF, Stone TC, Hogan Á, Kabir Y, Johnson C, Merrifield R, Lovat LB. Face Mask Acceptability for Communal Religious Worship During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United Kingdom: Results from the CONFESS Study. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:608-626. [PMID: 36002758 PMCID: PMC9401196 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-022-01641-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to restrictions such as social distancing and mandatory wearing of face masks. Singing and religious gatherings have been linked to infection clusters, and between 2020 and 2021 indoor congregational singing and chanting were prohibited in the United Kingdom. We evaluated attitudes to face mask use and their acceptability as well as changes within places of worship since their reopening in July up to autumn 2020. In this cross-sectional study, participants were recruited using convenience sampling through selective targeting of religious organisations and social media. Participants self-enrolled and completed an online questionnaire, which included open and closed questions. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with face mask acceptability. We performed thematic analysis to evaluate responses to open questions. A total of 939 participants were included in the analysis. Median age was 52.7 years and 66.1% were female, while 80.7% identified as Christian. A majority (672/861; 78.0%) of participants would find it acceptable to wear a face mask and reduce their singing or chanting volume if required, even though 428/681 (49.1%) found face masks to be uncomfortable. Multivariable regression found that younger age was associated with a higher acceptability of face masks (adjusted OR (aOR): 0.98 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.96-1.00), p = 0.0218). The majority of respondents stated that religious services had become shorter, attended by fewer people and with reduced singing or chanting. Most (869/893, 97.3%) stated their place of worship complied with government guidelines, with 803/887 (90.5%) reported that their place of worship enforced face mask wearing and 793/887 (89.4%) at least moderately happy with precaution measures. Our study demonstrates the significant impact of COVID-19 in places of worship but a high degree of compliance with guidelines. Face masks, despite practical difficulties, appeared to be more acceptable if there was an incentive of being able to sing and chant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Man Alexander Ho
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London, W1W 7TY, UK
- Wellcome/EPSRC Centre for Interventional and Surgical Sciences (WEISS), University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London, W1W 7TY, UK
| | - Rebecca F Baggaley
- Department of Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Timothy C Stone
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London, W1W 7TY, UK
| | - Áine Hogan
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London, W1W 7TY, UK
| | - Yusuf Kabir
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London, W1W 7TY, UK
- Wellcome/EPSRC Centre for Interventional and Surgical Sciences (WEISS), University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London, W1W 7TY, UK
| | | | | | - Laurence B Lovat
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London, W1W 7TY, UK.
- Wellcome/EPSRC Centre for Interventional and Surgical Sciences (WEISS), University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London, W1W 7TY, UK.
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Pretravel preparation and factors associated with willingness to seek pretravel consultation among Taiwanese travelers. Travel Med Infect Dis 2022; 49:102397. [PMID: 35792255 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2022.102397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although globalization promotes economic development, cross-border infectious disease transmission is still a serious threat to health. Taiwan is geographically close to Southeast and South Asia, but the needs and expectations of Taiwanese travelers with regard to travel medicine are still largely unknown. This study aimed to clarify the pretravel preparations, needs, willingness to seek pretravel consultation, and factors associated with willingness, in order to provide valuable information for improvement of healthcare service. METHODS Data were collected with anonymous structured questionnaires distributed to 477 visitors who tried to get travel health information from New Southbound Health Center between June and November 2019. A multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis was applied to identify factors associated with the visitors' willingness to seek pretravel consultation. RESULTS A total of 304 questionnaires (64%) were collected. Eighty-three percent of the respondents were willing to seek pretravel consultation. A higher level of education (odds ratio 3.6 [95% CI 1.58-8.22]), having a plan to obtain travel medical insurance (2.5 [1.18-5.28]), concern with gastrointestinal diseases (2.0 [1.04-3.94]), concern with mosquito-borne diseases (2.0 [2.07-3.95]), and concern with noncommunicable diseases (2.2 [1.02-4.96]) were independent factors associated with willingness to seek pretravel consultation.: CONCLUSIONS: We found that most of the travelers were willing to seek pretravel consultation. Our study highlighted the need to enhance awareness about travel-related illness among these travelers. Strategies should be tailored according to these findings to help prevent epidemics and improve healthcare service in the future.
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Mahdi HA, Rashid H, Qashqari FS, Hariri SH, Marglani OA, Barasheed O, Albutti A, Alwashmi AS, Shaban RZ, Booy R, Alfelali M. Syndromic surveillance of respiratory-tract infections and hand hygiene practice among pilgrims attended Hajj in 2021: a cohort study. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:578. [PMID: 35761226 PMCID: PMC9238003 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07559-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The risk of transmission of viral respiratory tract infections (RTIs) is high in mass gatherings including Hajj. This cohort study estimated the incidence of symptomatic RTIs and hand hygiene compliance with its impact among Hajj pilgrims during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods During the week of Hajj rituals in 2021, domestic pilgrims were recruited by phone and asked to complete a baseline questionnaire. Pilgrims were followed up after seven days using a questionnaire about the development of symptoms, and practices of hand hygiene. Syndromic definitions were used to clinically diagnose ‘possible’ influenza-like illnesses (ILI) and COVID-19 infection. Results A total of 510 pilgrims aged between 18 and 69 (median of 50) years completed the questionnaire, 280 (54.9%) of whom were female, and all of them (except for one) were vaccinated against COVID-19 with at least one dose. The mean (± SD) of pilgrims’ hand hygiene knowledge score (on a scale of 0 to 6) was 4.15 (± 1.22), and a higher level of knowledge was correlated with a higher frequency of handwashing using soap and water. Among those 445 pilgrims who completed the follow-up form, 21 (4.7%) developed one or more respiratory symptoms, of which sore throat and cough were the commonest (respectively 76.2% and 42.8%); ‘possible ILI’ and ‘possible COVID-19’ were present in 1.1% and 0.9% of pilgrims. Obesity was found to be a significant factor associated with the risk of developing RTIs (odds ratio = 4.45, 95% confidence interval 1.15–17.13). Conclusions Hajj pilgrims are still at risk of respiratory infections. Further larger and controlled investigations are needed to assess the efficacy of hand hygiene during Hajj.
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Toha TR, Al-Nabhan NA, Salim SI, Rahaman M, Kamal U, Islam AAA. LC-Net: Localized Counting Network for extremely dense crowds. Appl Soft Comput 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.asoc.2022.108930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Li H, Yuan K, Sun YK, Zheng YB, Xu YY, Su SZ, Zhang YX, Zhong Y, Wang YJ, Tian SS, Gong YM, Fan TT, Lin X, Gobat N, Wong SYS, Chan EYY, Yan W, Sun SW, Ran MS, Bao YP, Shi J, Lu L. Efficacy and practice of facemask use in general population: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:49. [PMID: 35105851 PMCID: PMC8804079 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01814-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, respiratory infections, including SARS, HINI and the currently spreading COVID-19, caused by various viruses such as influenza and coronavirus have seriously threatened human health. It has generated inconsistent recommendations on the mandatory use of facemasks across countries on a population level due to insufficient evidence on the efficacy of facemask use among the general population. This meta-analysis aimed to explore (1) the efficacy of facemask use on preventing respiratory infections, and (2) the perceptions, intentions, and practice about facemask use among the general population worldwide. We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane, bioRxiv, and medRxiv databases since inception to August 17, 2020. From 21,341 records identified, eight RCTs on facemask in preventing infections and 78 studies on perception, intention, and practice of facemask use among the general population were included in the analysis. The meta-analysis of RCTs found a significant protective effect of facemask intervention (OR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.71-0.99; I2 = 0%). This protective effect was even more pronounced when the intervention duration was more than two weeks (OR = 0.76; 95% CI = 0.66-0.88; I2 = 0%). The meta-analysis of observational studies on perception, intention, and practice on facemask use showed that 71% of respondents perceived facemasks to be effective for infection prevention, 68% of respondents would wear facemasks, and 54% of respondents wore facemasks for preventing respiratory infections. Differences in perception, intention, and practice behavior of facemask use in different regions may be related to the impact of respiratory infections, regional culture, and policies. The governments and relevant organizations should make effort to reduce the barriers in the use of facemasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Kun Sun
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yong-Bo Zheng
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Ying Xu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Si-Zhen Su
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Xin Zhang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Zhong
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Jie Wang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shan-Shan Tian
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Miao Gong
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Teng-Teng Fan
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Lin
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Nina Gobat
- Nuffield Dept of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Samuel Yeung Shan Wong
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Emily Ying Yang Chan
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, School of Public Health and Primary Care, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sha tin, Hong Kong
| | - Wei Yan
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Si-Wei Sun
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Mao-Sheng Ran
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yan-Ping Bao
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
| | - Lin Lu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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COVID-19 and other respiratory tract infections at mass gathering religious and sporting events. Curr Opin Pulm Med 2022; 28:192-198. [PMID: 35102092 DOI: 10.1097/mcp.0000000000000859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mass gathering (MG) religious events provide ideal conditions for transmission and globalization of respiratory tract infections (RTIs). We review recent literature on COVID-19 and other RTIs at recurring international annual MG religious and sporting events. RECENT FINDINGS Due to the COVID-19 pandemic organizers of MG religious and sporting events introduced risk-based infection control measures that limited transmission of RTIs. The 2020 and 2021 Hajj were conducted with limited numbers of pilgrims compared to the annual millions of pilgrims. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games were cancelled and held in 2021. The success of the COVID-19 countermeasures at the 2021 Hajj and 2021 Tokyo Olympics was based on implementing good public health and social measures alongside a comprehensive testing strategy. SUMMARY MG events are associated with transmission of a range of bacterial and viral RTIs. Introducing risk based a multitude of public health interventions can reduce transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and other RTIs.
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Barriers and Drivers of Public Preventive Behavioral Responses to COVID-19 Outbreak: Evidence from Iran. HEALTH SCOPE 2021. [DOI: 10.5812/jhealthscope.114619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: When an epidemic outspreads, the society engagement seems essential to make sure of the population’s preparedness for taking individual precautions. Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to examine public’s preventive behavioral responses to protective behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide a description of conceptual frameworks for deeper understanding of these behaviors. Methods: A self-administrated questionnaire was used in this online survey through social networks during March 19th to 26th, 2020 (n = 2550). A Likert scoring scale was employed to investigate barriers and drivers affecting the participants’ preventive behaviors. Using personal protective equipment and good hand hygiene practices were identified as person-based measures. Social distancing and the restriction of social and economic activities during the past two months were determined as community-based measures. Univariate logistic regression and multiple - logistic regression were used to identify and assess influencing factors. Results: The study results indicated that 2426 (95.1%) of the participants intended to restrict their social and economic activities, and 1968 (72.2%), 1637 (64.2%), and 2492 (97.7%) persons intended to observe social distancing, use personal protective equipment, and have good hand hygiene, respectively. The most important barriers for preventive behaviors were the lack of risk perception, economic and financial barriers, lack of access, and cultural barriers, respectively. The perceived benefit was among the most significant driver. Intention for person-based measures was less affected by demographic and economic characteristics in comparison with community-based measures. Conclusions: Considering the substantial impact of preventive behaviors on managing COVID-19 epidemic, this study findings have remarkable implications for governments to manage future communications as well as interventions during this ongoing outbreak and subsequent national risk events.
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Special Issue: Travel and Tropical Medicine. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6020053. [PMID: 33921618 PMCID: PMC8167769 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6020053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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A Longitudinal Study Regarding the Health Profile of the 2017 South African Hajj Pilgrims. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18073607. [PMID: 33807142 PMCID: PMC8036399 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The Hajj mass gathering annually attracts over two million Muslim pilgrims worldwide to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). We aimed to establish demographics and health profiles for the South African pilgrims performing the 2017 Hajj. Methods: This is a longitudinal survey-based study conducted on 1138 adult South African pilgrims in two phases (during and post-Hajj). Data on demographics, vaccination status, underlying health conditions, pre-Hajj training, health promotion, travel history, and health issues during and post-Hajj were collected using pre-designed questionnaires. Results: Participants had a mean age of 49.2 years (SD = 13.3; range 18–81), with a male: female ratio of 1.2:1. The majority of pilgrims were married (88.2%), of Indian/Asian background (73%), and literate (>99%). Nearly all pilgrims were vaccinated against meningococcal disease and yellow fever, but only 23.7% were vaccinated against Influenza. Hypertension, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol levels were the most common underlying health conditions reported by 22.6%, 13.2%, and 11.5% of pilgrims, respectively. One month after return to South Africa, nearly 65% of pilgrims reported illness during Hajj, while 40% reported falling ill post event upon return to South Africa. Nevertheless, only a few were admitted to hospitals (12 during Hajj and 15 post-Hajj). Among ill pilgrims, respiratory symptoms were the most commonly experienced symptoms during (70.2%) and post-Hajj (82.2%). Other symptoms such as walking-related symptoms include symptoms directly related or mainly caused by walking (e.g., leg pain, sore feet, blisters on the feet), dehydration, and gastrointestinal tract symptoms reported during Hajj. Medication to treat respiratory symptoms and antibiotics were the most commonly used medications during and post-Hajj. Having an underlying health condition was an independent predictor of falling ill during or post Hajj. Conclusion: Our study indicates that a sizable proportion of South African pilgrims are elderly with underlying health conditions and most contract respiratory tract infections during and post Hajj. Our study highlights the need for systematic collection of prospective pilgrims’ demographics and health data and more attention to post-Hajj health follow-ups of pilgrims.
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Prevalence of Influenza Among Hajj Pilgrims: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2021; 16:1221-1228. [PMID: 33757612 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2020.472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Respiratory transmission, especially in mass gatherings, is considered one of the main ways of influenza transmission. The Hajj ceremony, as one of the largest gatherings worldwide, can increase the distribution of influenza infection. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the incidence of influenza among Hajj pilgrims. METHODS In this present systematic review and meta-analysis, all English studies published by 2019 were extracted from several databases such as the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Finally, the data were extracted using a pre-prepared checklist and then analyzed by fixed and random effects model tests in the meta-analysis, Cochran, meta-regression, and Begg's test. RESULTS Eighteen studies with a sample size of 62 431 were entered into the meta-analysis process. The overall prevalence of influenza, in addition to the prevalence of types A, B, and C influenza, was estimated at 5.9 (95% CI: 4.3-8.0), 3.6 (95% CI: 2.6-4.9), 2.9 (95% CI: 2.8-3.1), and 0.9% (95% CI: 0.5-1.5), respectively. CONCLUSIONS In general, influenza remains widespread regardless of vaccinating pilgrims and following health protocols. Therefore, it is recommended that comprehensive management and educational approaches be used to reduce the prevalence of influenza and its adverse consequences among the pilgrims.
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Sabry N, ElHadidi S, Kamel A, Abbassi M, Farid S. Awareness of the Egyptian public about COVID-19: what we do and do not know. Inform Health Soc Care 2021; 46:244-255. [PMID: 33622157 DOI: 10.1080/17538157.2021.1883029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
To survey the health-seeking behaviors and perspectives of the Egyptian population toward the COVID-19 pandemic. A descriptive survey was designed and disseminated via social media platforms. The survey consisted of 32 questions addressing respondent's demographics, knowledge, practice, and attitude toward the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 25,994 Egyptians participated in the survey from the 29 Egyptian governorates. More than 99% of the respondents were aware of the COVID-19 pandemic. Responses showed split opinions regarding whether people should wear gloves or masks to prevent COVID-19 infection (47.7% and 49.5% replied with "False", respectively). Almost one-quarter (23.1%) of the respondents went to crowded places during the last 14 days. Calling the emergency hotline and self-isolation at home were the most frequent practices to deal with COVID-19 symptoms (34.1% and 44.5%, respectively). A total of 85% of respondents reported their confidence in the Egyptian healthcare system to win the battle against COVID-19 despite the challenges. A vast majority of this large population sample reported reasonable knowledge levels and potentially appropriate practices toward COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Seif ElHadidi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmaceutical Industries, Future University in Egypt, New Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Kamel
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Samar Farid
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review of the Impacts of Coronavirus on Society and Culture. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18020491. [PMID: 33435337 PMCID: PMC7827960 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Little is understood of the social and cultural effects of coronaviruses such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV). This systematic review aims to synthesize existing findings (both qualitative and quantitative) that focus on the social and cultural impacts of coronaviruses in order to gain a better understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing a predetermined search strategy, we searched CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Web of Science to identify existing (qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods) studies pertaining to the coronavirus infections and their intersection with societies and cultures. A narrative synthesis approach was applied to summarize and interpret findings of the study. Stemming from SARS outbreak in 2003, qualitative and quantitative findings (twelve adopted quantitative methods and eight exclusively used qualitative methods) were organized under five topical domains: governance, crisis communication and public knowledge, stigma and discrimination, social compliance of preventive measures, and the social experience of health workers. The selected studies suggest that current societies are not equipped for effective coronavirus response and control. This mixed-methods systematic review demonstrates that the effects of coronaviruses on a society can be debilitating.
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Goni MD, Naing NN, Hasan H, Wan-Arfah N, Deris ZZ, Arifin WN, Baaba AA, Njaka S. A confirmatory factor analysis of the knowledge, attitude and practice questionnaire towards prevention of respiratory tract infections during Hajj and Umrah. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1684. [PMID: 33172429 PMCID: PMC7653445 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09756-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Respiratory tract infections are one of the common infection associated with Hajj pilgrimage that is of great public health and global concern. This study is aimed at determining the factor structure of the knowledge, attitude, and practice questionnaire for the prevention of respiratory tract infections during Hajj by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Methods A multistage cluster sampling method was conducted on Malaysian Umrah pilgrims during the weekly Umrah orientation course. A total of 200 Umrah pilgrims participated in the study. The knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) questionnaire was distributed to pilgrims at the beginning of the orientation and retrieved immediately at the end of the orientation. Data analysis was done using R version 3.5.0 after data entry into SPSS 24. The robust maximum likelihood was used for the estimation due to the multivariate normality assumption violation. A two-factor model was tested for measurement model validity and construct validity for each of the attitude and practice domains. Results CFA of a 25-item in total, the two-factor model yielded adequate goodness-of-fit values. The measurement model also showed good convergent and discriminant validity after model re-specification. A two-factor model was tested for measurement model validity and construct validity for each of the attitude and practice domains. The result also showed a statistically significant value (p < 0.001) with χ2 (df) values of 76.8 (43) and 121 (76) for attitude and practice domains, respectively. Conclusion The KAP questionnaire was proven to have a valid measurement model and reliable constructs. It was deemed suitable for use to measure the KAP of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims towards the prevention for all respiratory tract infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Dauda Goni
- Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, IBB Secretariat Complex, Yobe State Government, Damaturu, Nigeria
| | - Nyi Nyi Naing
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Campus Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, 20400, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Habsah Hasan
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Nadiah Wan-Arfah
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Gong Badak Campus, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, 21300, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Zakuan Zainy Deris
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Wan Nor Arifin
- Unit of Biostatistics and Research Methodology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Aisha Abubakar Baaba
- Centre for Language Studies and Generic Development, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Locked Bag 01, 16300, Bachok, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Stanley Njaka
- Department of Nursing Science, School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
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Mahdi H, Alqahtani A, Barasheed O, Alemam A, Alhakami M, Gadah I, Alkediwi H, Alzahrani K, Fatani L, Dahlawi L, Alsharif S, Shaban R, Booy R, Rashid H. Hand Hygiene Knowledge and Practices among Domestic Hajj Pilgrims: Implications for Future Mass Gatherings Amidst COVID-19. Trop Med Infect Dis 2020; 5:E160. [PMID: 33081118 PMCID: PMC7709701 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed5040160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined Hajj pilgrims' knowledge and reported practice of hand hygiene. In Hajj 2019, a cross-sectional survey was undertaken in Mina, Makkah, Saudi Arabia, of domestic Saudi pilgrims aged ≥18 years by using a self-administered Arabic questionnaire that captured data on pilgrims' socio-demographics, hand hygiene knowledge, and reported practices of hand cleaning following certain actions. A total of 348 respondents aged 18 to 63 (median 32) years completed the survey, of whom 200 (57.5%) were female. The mean (±standard deviation (SD)) hand hygiene knowledge score was 6.7 (±SD 1.9). Two hundred and seventy one (77.9%) and 286 (82.2%) of respondents correctly identified that hand hygiene can prevent respiratory and gastrointestinal infections respectively, but 146 (42%) were not aware that it prevents hand-foot-mouth disease. Eighty-eight (25.3%) respondents erroneously reported that hand hygiene prevents HIV. Washing hands with water and soap was the most preferred method practiced before a meal (67.5% (235/348)), after a meal (80.2% (279/348)), after toilet action (81.6% (284/348)), when hands were visibly soiled (86.2% (300/348)), and after waste disposal (61.5% (214/348)). Hajj pilgrims demonstrated a good knowledge and practice of hand hygiene, but there are gaps that are vital to control outbreaks such as COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hashim Mahdi
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; (R.B.); (H.R.)
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- College of Health Sciences, Saudi Electronic University, Jeddah 23442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Alqahtani
- Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), Riyadh 13312, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Osamah Barasheed
- The Executive Administration of Research and Innovation, King Abdullah Medical City in Holy Capital (KAMC-HC), Makkah 24246, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Amjad Alemam
- Faculty of Dentistry, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohammed Alhakami
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, Jeddah 22384, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ibrahim Gadah
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, Jeddah 22384, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Hadeel Alkediwi
- College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.); (K.A.)
| | - Khadijah Alzahrani
- College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.); (K.A.)
| | - Lujain Fatani
- College of Nursing, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Lamis Dahlawi
- Ghaya Community Pharmacy, Makkah 24234, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Saeed Alsharif
- Command and Control Centre of Infectious Diseases of Public Health Department of Ministry of Health, Taif 26521, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ramon Shaban
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery & Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Division of Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health, Westmead Hospital and Western Sydney Local Health District, Westmead, NSW 2151, Australia
| | - Robert Booy
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; (R.B.); (H.R.)
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; (R.B.); (H.R.)
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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15
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Alfelali M, Haworth EA, Barasheed O, Badahdah AM, Bokhary H, Tashani M, Azeem MI, Kok J, Taylor J, Barnes EH, El Bashir H, Khandaker G, Holmes EC, Dwyer DE, Heron LG, Wilson GJ, Booy R, Rashid H. Facemask against viral respiratory infections among Hajj pilgrims: A challenging cluster-randomized trial. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240287. [PMID: 33048964 PMCID: PMC7553311 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In this large-scale cluster-randomized controlled trial (cRCT) we sought to assess the effectiveness of facemasks against viral respiratory infections. Methods and results Over three consecutive Hajj seasons (2013, 2014, 2015) pilgrims’ tents in Makkah were allocated to ‘facemask’ or ‘no facemask’ group. Fifty facemasks were offered to participants in intervention tents, to be worn over four days, and none were offered to participants in control tents. All participants recorded facemask use and respiratory symptoms in health diaries. Nasal swabs were collected from the symptomatic for virus detection by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Clinical symptoms and laboratory results were analyzed by ‘intention- to-treat’ and ‘per-protocol’. A total of 7687 adult participants from 318 tents were randomized: 3864 from 149 tents to the intervention group, and 3823 from 169 tents to the control group. Participants were aged 18 to 95 (median 34, mean 37) years, with a male to female ratio of 1:1.2. Overall, respiratory viruses were detected in 277 of 650 (43%) nasal/pharyngeal swabs collected from symptomatic pilgrims. Common viruses were rhinovirus (35.1%), influenza (4.5%) and parainfluenza (1.7%). In the intervention arm, respectively 954 (24.7%) and 1842 (47.7%) participants used facemasks daily and intermittently, while in the control arm, respectively 546 (14.3%) and 1334 (34.9%) used facemasks daily and intermittently. By intention-to-treat analysis, facemask use did not seem to be effective against laboratory-confirmed viral respiratory infections (odds ratio [OR], 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.9 to 2.1, p = 0.18) nor against clinical respiratory infection (OR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.9 to 1.4, p = 0.40). Similarly, in a per-protocol analysis, facemask use did not seem to be effective against laboratory-confirmed viral respiratory infections (OR 1.2, 95% CI 0.9–1.7, p = 0.26) nor against clinical respiratory infection (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.0–1.8, p = 0.06). Conclusion This trial was unable to provide conclusive evidence on facemask efficacy against viral respiratory infections most likely due to poor adherence to protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Alfelali
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Osamah Barasheed
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Research Center, King Abdullah Medical City, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Al-Mamoon Badahdah
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamid Bokhary
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Tashani
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tripoli, Ain Zara, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Mohammad I. Azeem
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jen Kok
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- NSW Health Pathology - Institute for Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Janette Taylor
- NSW Health Pathology - Institute for Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth H. Barnes
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Haitham El Bashir
- Rehabilitation Department, Al Jalila Children Specialty Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Gulam Khandaker
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Central Queensland Public Health Unit, Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Edward C. Holmes
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dominic E. Dwyer
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- NSW Health Pathology - Institute for Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Leon G. Heron
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Godwin J. Wilson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Robert Booy
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life & Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
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16
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Goni MD, Hasan H, Wan-Arfah N, Naing NN, Deris ZZ, Arifin WN, Baaba AA, Aliyu A, Adam BM. Health Education Intervention as an Effective Means for Prevention of Respiratory Infections Among Hajj Pilgrims: A Review. Front Public Health 2020; 8:449. [PMID: 33014965 PMCID: PMC7494962 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of respiratory illness has continued to surge among Hajj pilgrims from different countries despite having some practices of preventive measures. Respiratory illnesses during Hajj could be due to many reasons and many factors that promote disease spread. These factors include overcrowding, cigarette smoking, and direct contact with infectious agents particularly viruses promote the spread of respiratory infections. However, due to the longer duration of the pilgrimage, there are high chances of pilgrims contracting various respiratory illnesses due to exposure to respiratory pathogens. Hajj pilgrims' knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward respiratory tract infections are used as the determinant of the effectiveness of the health education interventions. Knowledge and application of basic hygiene principles, use of face masks, following cough etiquettes, engaging in social distancing, and engaging in other measures are highly important. In this paper, we reviewed the various effective intervention strategies implemented to help prevent respiratory tract infections during Hajj.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Dauda Goni
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Habsah Hasan
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Nadiah Wan-Arfah
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Nyi Nyi Naing
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Zakuan Zainy Deris
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Wan Nor Arifin
- Unit of Biostatistics and Research Methodology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Aisha Abubakar Baaba
- Centre for Language Studies and Generic Development, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - Abdulwahab Aliyu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gombe State University, Gombe, Nigeria
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Alqahtani AS, Alsharif SA, Garnan MA, Tashani M, BinDhim NF, Heywood AE, Booy R, Wiley KE, Rashid H. The Impact of Receiving Pretravel Health Advice on the Prevention of Hajj-Related Illnesses Among Australian Pilgrims: Cohort Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2020; 6:e10959. [PMID: 32673259 PMCID: PMC7388052 DOI: 10.2196/10959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pretravel health advice can play a crucial role in improving both travelers’ awareness about disease risk and compliance with preventive measures. General practitioners (GPs) and the internet have been reported internationally to be the main sources of health advice for travelers to non–mass gathering (MG) destinations. However, few studies have attempted to investigate the sources of health advice among travelers to MGs including the Hajj pilgrimage, and none of these studies further investigated the impact of pretravel advice on pilgrims’ health behaviors. Objective The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of the source of pretravel health advice (from GPs and specialized Hajj travel agents) on Hajj pilgrims’ awareness of and compliance with health recommendations, and the incidence of Hajj-associated illnesses. Methods A prospective cohort study (before and during Hajj) was conducted among Australian pilgrims aged ≥18 years in 2015. Results A total of 421 pilgrims participated prior to Hajj, and 391 (93%) provided follow-up data during Hajj. All participants obtained pretravel health advice from one or more sources, with Hajj travel agents (46%) and general practitioners (GPs; 40%) the most commonly reported sources. In total, 288 (74%) participants reported Hajj-related symptoms, of which 86% (248/288) were respiratory symptoms. Participants who obtained pretravel health advice from travel agents were more likely to be aware of the official Saudi recommendations (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.8; P=.01), receive recommended vaccines before travel (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.4-3.9; P=.01), use hand sanitizers including soap (aOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.1-6.1; P=.03), and wash their hands after touching an ill person during Hajj (aOR 2.9, 95% CI 1.1-7.1; P=.01), compared to those who sought advice from GPs. However, neither advice from travel agents nor GPs was associated with a lower incidence of Hajj-related illnesses. Conclusions Advice from travel agents appeared to be accessed by more travelers than that from GPs, and was associated with an increased likelihood of positive travel health behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani S Alqahtani
- Saudi Food and Drug Authority, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Mohamed Tashani
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia.,The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Anita E Heywood
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robert Booy
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia.,The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney, Australia.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Mass Gatherings and High Consequence/High Visibility Events, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kerrie E Wiley
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia.,The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney, Australia
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18
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Tavan A, Tafti AD, Nekoie-Moghadam M, Ehrampoush M, Vafaei Nasab MR, Tavangar H, Fallahzadeh H. Risks threatening the health of people participating in mass gatherings: A systematic review. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2019; 8:209. [PMID: 31807599 PMCID: PMC6852309 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_214_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Mass gatherings (MGs) are established for different religious, social, political, cultural, and sport motivations. Many risks threaten the participants' health in MGs for different reasons. One duty of health-care system is to identify the risks and manage them to reduce the participants' injuries in MGs. This study aimed to identify and classify the risks threatening the health of participants in MGs and review related articles systematically. SUBJECTS AND METHODS In this study, we investigated electronic databases including Science Direct, PubMed, Ovid, ProQuest, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. This systematic review investigated those health articles which studied MGs published after 2000. Keywords that were searched included (Mass gathering OR Crowd) AND (Assessment OR Evaluation) AND (Disaster OR Emergencies) AND (Injuries OR Stamped). The final full text articles were assessed qualitatively by STROBE article assessment checklist, and then the data extracted from the results of the articles were analyzed and reported. RESULTS Initially, a total of 1874 articles were found, qualitative exclusion and inclusion criteria were applied, and finally 29 full-text articles were selected for the analysis. More than forty health-related risks were recognized. In order to better understand the risks and use of the results more efficiently, the risks were classified and reported into the following five domains: environmental risks, individual risks, psychological risks, public health risks, and management risks. CONCLUSION Many risks threaten the health of participants in MGs. Recognizing and managing the risks are considered the primary and basic essentials of health sector for the better management of MGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asghar Tavan
- Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, International Campus, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Abbasali Dehghani Tafti
- Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mahmood Nekoie-Moghadam
- Department of Health Services Management, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohmmadhasan Ehrampoush
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Vafaei Nasab
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hossein Tavangar
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hossein Fallahzadeh
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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19
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Meningococcal Vaccine for Hajj Pilgrims: Compliance, Predictors, and Barriers. Trop Med Infect Dis 2019; 4:tropicalmed4040127. [PMID: 31618945 PMCID: PMC6958484 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed4040127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Major intercontinental outbreaks of invasive meningococcal disease associated with the Hajj occurred in 1987, 2000, and 2001. Mandatory meningococcal vaccination for all pilgrims against serogroups A and C and, subsequently, A, C, W, and Y controlled the epidemics. Overseas pilgrims show excellent adherence to the policy; however, vaccine uptake among domestic pilgrims is suboptimal. This survey aimed to evaluate meningococcal vaccine uptake among Hajj pilgrims and to identify key factors affecting this. Methods: An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted among pilgrims in Greater Makkah during the Hajj in 2017–2018. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, vaccination status, cost of vaccination, and reasons behind non-receipt of the vaccine were collected. Results: A total of 509 respondents aged 13 to 82 (median 33.8) years participated in the survey: 86% male, 85% domestic pilgrims. Only 389/476 (81.7%) confirmed their meningococcal vaccination status; 64 individuals (13.4%), all domestic pilgrims, did not receive the vaccine, and 23 (4.8%) were unsure. Among overseas pilgrims, 93.5% certainly received the vaccine (6.5% were unsure) compared to 80.9% of domestic pilgrims (p < 0.01). Being employed and having a tertiary qualification were significant predictors of vaccination adherence (odds ratio (OR) = 2.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.3–3.8, p < 0.01; and OR = 1.7, CI = 1–2.5, p < 0.05, respectively). Those who obtained pre-Hajj health advice were more than three times as likely to be vaccinated than those who did not (OR = 3.3, CI = 1.9–5.9, p < 0.001). Lack of awareness (63.2%, 36/57) and lack of time (15.8%, 9/57) were the most common reasons reported for non-receipt of vaccine. Conclusion: Many domestic pilgrims missed the compulsory meningococcal vaccine; in this regard, lack of awareness is a key barrier. Being an overseas pilgrim (or living at a distance from Makkah), receipt of pre-Hajj health advice, and employment were predictors of greater compliance with the vaccination policy. Opportunities remain to reduce the policy–practice gap among domestic pilgrims.
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Goni MD, Naing NN, Hasan H, Wan-Arfah N, Deris ZZ, Arifin WN, Baaba AA. Uptake of Recommended Vaccines and Its Associated Factors Among Malaysian Pilgrims During Hajj and Umrah 2018. Front Public Health 2019; 7:268. [PMID: 31620419 PMCID: PMC6759542 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the uptake of recommended vaccines and to identify the factors associated with the vaccines' uptake among Malaysian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. A cross-sectional survey among Malaysian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims in 2018. The uptake of the recommended vaccines was surveyed through an anonymous self-administered questionnaire to pilgrims attending a pre-departure Hajj/Umrah orientation course. Descriptive statistics were used for elaborating the demographic characteristics and vaccines uptake of the respondents. Multiple logistic regression was used for predicting the factors associated with the vaccines' uptake. A total of 1,274 pilgrims participated in the study with a mean age (standard deviation) of 42.42 (15.6). A total of 833 (65.4%) participants were females and 232 of the participants (18.2%) had at least more than one chronic disease. The uptake of influenza and pneumococcal vaccines were 28.6% (364/1,274) and 25.4% (324/1,274), respectively. Among the 527 pilgrims who were "at increased risk" of infections, 168 (31.9%) and 184 (34.9%) received influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, respectively. Gender, marital status and occupation were the common predictors associated with vaccines uptake. The vaccination uptake among Malaysian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims is low and declining from previous years. Educating the pilgrims toward vaccine uptake is essential and exploring the barriers for vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Dauda Goni
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Nyi Nyi Naing
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Medical Campus, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Habsah Hasan
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Nadiah Wan-Arfah
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Gong Badak Campus, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Zakuan Zainy Deris
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Wan Nor Arifin
- Unit of Biostatistics and Research Methodology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Aisha Abubakar Baaba
- Centre for Language Studies and Generic Development, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
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Kain D, Findlater A, Lightfoot D, Maxim T, Kraemer MUG, Brady OJ, Watts A, Khan K, Bogoch II. Factors Affecting Pre-Travel Health Seeking Behaviour and Adherence to Pre-Travel Health Advice: A Systematic Review. J Travel Med 2019; 26:5549355. [PMID: 31407776 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taz059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent years have seen unprecedented growth in international travel. Travellers are at high risk for acquiring infections while abroad and potentially bringing these infections back to their home country. There are many ways to mitigate this risk by seeking pre-travel advice (PTA), including receiving recommended vaccinations and chemoprophylaxis, however many travellers do not seek or adhere to PTA. We conducted a systematic review to further understand PTA-seeking behaviour with an ultimate aim to implement interventions that improve adherence to PTA and reduce morbidity and mortality in travellers. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of published medical literature selecting studies that examined reasons for not seeking PTA and non-adherence to PTA over the last ten years. 4484 articles were screened of which 56 studies met our search criteria after full text review. RESULTS The major reason for not seeking or non-adherence to PTA was perceived low risk of infection while travelling. Side effects played a significant role for lack of adherence specific to malaria prophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS These data may help clinicians and public health providers to better understand reasons for non-adherence to PTA and target interventions to improve travellers understanding of potential and modifiable risks. Additionally, we discuss specific recommendations to increase public health education that may enable travellers to seek PTA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Kain
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Aidan Findlater
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | - Timea Maxim
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Oliver J Brady
- Centre for the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alexander Watts
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kamran Khan
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Isaac I Bogoch
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Divisions of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
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Influenza vaccination for Hajj for the next decade: A case for quadrivalent SH vaccine. Vaccine 2019; 37:3625-3627. [PMID: 31104882 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Tashani M, Badahdah AM, Alfelali M, Barasheed O, Alqahtani AS, Heron L, Wong M, Louth J, Rashid H, Borrow R, Booy R. Effect on meningococcal serogroup W immunogenicity when Tdap was administered prior, concurrent or subsequent to the quadrivalent (ACWY) meningococcal CRM 197-conjugate vaccine in adult Hajj pilgrims: A randomised controlled trial. Vaccine 2019; 37:3562-3567. [PMID: 31128875 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2019.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Immune responses to the capsular polysaccharide administered in the polysaccharide-protein conjugate vaccines can be either improved or suppressed by the pre-existence of immunity to the carrier protein. Receiving multiple vaccinations is essential for travellers such as Hajj pilgrims, and the use of conjugated vaccines is recommended. We studied the immune response to meningococcal serogroup W upon prior, concurrent and sequential administration of a quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4) conjugated to CRM197 (coadministered with 13 valent pneumococcal vaccine conjugate CRM197 [PCV13]), and tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine in Australian adults before attending the Hajj pilgrimage in 2014. Participants were randomly assigned, by computer-generated numbers, to three study arms by 1:1:1 ratio. Group A received Tdap followed by MCV4-CRM197 (+PCV13) 3-4 weeks later. Group B received all three vaccines in a single visit. Group C received MCV4-CRM197 (+PCV13) followed by Tdap 3-4 weeks later. Blood samples obtained prior to and 3-4 weeks after immunisation with MCV4-CRM197 were tested for meningococcal serogroup W-specific serum bactericidal antibody responses using baby rabbit complement (rSBA). One hundred and seven participants aged between 18 and 64 (median 40) years completed the study. No significant difference in meningococcal serogroup W rSBA geometric mean titre (GMT) was observed between the study arms post vaccination with MCV-CRM197 but Group A tended to have a slightly lower GMT (A = 404, B = 984 and C = 1235, p = 0.15). No statistical difference was noticed between the groups in proportions of subjects achieving a ≥4-fold rise in rSBA titres or achieving rSBA titre ≥8 post vaccination. In conclusion, receipt of MCV4-CRM197 vaccine prior, concurrent or subsequent to Tdap has similar immunologic response, and hence concurrent administration is both immunogenic and practical. However, further investigation into whether carrier induced suppression is a public health issue is suggested. Clinical trial registration: ANZCTR no. ACTRN12613000536763.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Tashani
- The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Tripoli, Ain Zara, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Al-Mamoon Badahdah
- The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, NSW, Australia; Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohammad Alfelali
- The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, NSW, Australia; Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osamah Barasheed
- The Executive Administration of Research and Innovation, King Abdullah Medical City in Holy Capital (KAMC-HC), Makkah 24246, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Leon Heron
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Melanie Wong
- Immunology Department, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Jennifer Louth
- Vaccine Evaluation Unit, Public Health England, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK
| | - Harunor Rashid
- The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, NSW, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Ray Borrow
- Vaccine Evaluation Unit, Public Health England, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK
| | - Robert Booy
- The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, NSW, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia; WHO Collaborating Centre for Mass Gatherings and High Consequence/High Visibility Events, Flinders University, Adelaide 5001, Australia
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Alqahtani AS, Tashani M, Heywood AE, Booy R, Rashid H, Wiley KE. Exploring Australian Hajj Tour Operators' Knowledge and Practices Regarding Pilgrims' Health Risks: A Qualitative Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2019; 5:e10960. [PMID: 31124464 PMCID: PMC6552451 DOI: 10.2196/10960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Travel agents are known to be one of the main sources of health information for pilgrims, and their advice is associated with positive health behaviors. Objective This study aimed to investigate travel agents’ health knowledge, what health advice they provide to the pilgrims, and their sources of health information. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted among specialist Hajj travel agents in Sydney, Australia. Thematic analysis was undertaken. Results Of the 13 accredited Hajj travel agents, 9 (69%) were interviewed. A high level of awareness regarding gastrointestinal infections, standard hygiene methods, and the risk of injury was noted among the participants and was included in advice provided to pilgrims. However, very limited knowledge and provision of advice about the risk of respiratory infections was identified. Knowledge of the compulsory meningococcal vaccine was high, and all participated travel agents reported influenza vaccine (a recommended vaccine) as a second “compulsory” vaccine for Hajj visas. Conversely, participants reported very limited knowledge about other recommended vaccines for Hajj. The Ministry of Hajj website and personal Hajj experience were the main sources of information. Conclusions This study identifies a potential path for novel health promotion strategies to improve health knowledge among Hajj travel agents and subsequently among Hajj pilgrims.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamed Tashani
- Child and Adolescent Health, Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Robert Booy
- Child and Adolescent Health, Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- Child and Adolescent Health, Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Pneumococcal disease during Hajj and Umrah: Research agenda for evidence-based vaccination policy for these events. Travel Med Infect Dis 2019; 29:8-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Alqahtani AS, Althimiri NA, BinDhim NF. Saudi Hajj pilgrims' preparation and uptake of health preventive measures during Hajj 2017. J Infect Public Health 2019; 12:772-776. [PMID: 31023600 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have reported the uptake of health preventive measures among Hajj pilgrims from Saudi Arabia. Yet, none of these studies have explored their perceptions of health risks at Hajj or pretravel health-advice-seeking behavior. METHODS A cross-sectional survey conducted among Hajj pilgrims from Saudi Arabia. RESULTS Of 344 pilgrims who completed the survey, 44% sought some form of pretravel health information; among them, 38% from non-medical sources. About 67% of participants received an influenza vaccine, and 8.7% received a pneumococcal vaccine. Lack of aware of vaccine availability was the main reason for nonreceipt (26%). Being employed and having a high level of education were significant factors in vaccine uptake. Two thirds of pilgrims carried some medications to use during Hajj; analgesics, antipyretics and antibiotics were the most reported drugs. Various methods of hand hygiene were the most used preventive measures (≈65%) followed by facemask use (53%). Those who concerned about food poisoning at Hajj were more likely to cleaned their hands with hand sanitizers (aOR = 2.5, 95% CI = 1.1-5.4, p = 0.01) and avoid eating food from street vendors (aOR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.1-7.5, p = 0.02). CONCLUSION Pretravel health-advice-seeking behavior and the use of preventive measures during Hajj were suboptimal among Saudi Hajj pilgrims.
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Karampourian A, Ghomian Z, Khorasani-Zavareh D. Exploring challenges of health system preparedness for communicable diseases in Arbaeen mass gathering: a qualitative study. F1000Res 2018; 7:1448. [PMID: 30473777 PMCID: PMC6234742 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.15290.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Infectious diseases are common problems in mass gatherings, especially when there is a lack of health system preparedness. Since Iran is one of the most important countries on the walking path of Arbaeen and has a vital role in providing health services to pilgrims, the experiences of health challenges by participants is of key importance. The aim of this study is to explore stakeholders' experiences on the health system's preparedness and challenges, and to provide suggestions for preventing infectious diseases during the Arbaeen mass gathering. Methods: A qualitative research method was used with a conventional content analysis approach. The number of participants was 17, including 13 executive managers and 4 health policymakers who entered the study among participants. Semi-structured interviews were used to generate the data. Interviews were analyzed by means of content analysis after face-to-face interviews. Results: Data analysis resulted in the extraction of four main themes and 11 sub-themes. Health infrastructure defects in Iraq has three sub-themes (health abandonment in Iraq, the weaknesses in health culture and problems related to the health system); poor control of the causative factors of infectious diseases has three sub-themes (the underlying factors of the prevalence of contagious diseases, health system response to communicable diseases and ignoring the risks of the Arbaeen ceremony); the low perception of risk in pilgrims has three sub-themes (lack of awareness in pilgrims, fatalism in pilgrims and unhygienic belief in pilgrims); and the ineffectiveness of health education has two sub-themes (training shortage in the targeted group and educational content problems) that shows participant's experiences of the health system's challenges for coping with infectious diseases during the Arbaeen ceremony. Conclusion: Pilgrim-based training, planning and controlling other challenges may change these threats to opportunities and improve the health of participants of the mass gathering of Arbaeen in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezou Karampourian
- Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 198353-5511, Iran
| | - Zohreh Ghomian
- Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 198353-5511, Iran
| | - Davoud Khorasani-Zavareh
- Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 198353-5511, Iran
- Safety Promotion and Injury Prevention Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 198353-5511, Iran
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Education, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, 202100-2973, Sweden
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Epidemiology of vaccine-preventable diseases in Japan: considerations for pre-travel advice for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and 2020 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games. Western Pac Surveill Response J 2018; 9:26-33. [PMID: 30057855 PMCID: PMC6053105 DOI: 10.5365/wpsar.2017.8.4.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In 2019 and 2020, Japan will host two international sporting events estimated to draw a combined 22 million visitors. Mass gatherings like these ones increase the risk of spread of infectious disease outbreaks and international transmission. Pre-travel advice reduces that risk. Methods To assist ministries of health and related organizations in developing pre-travel advice, we summarized national surveillance data in Japan (2000-2016, to the extent available) for rubella, invasive pneumococcal disease, measles, non-A and non-E viral hepatitis, hepatitis A, invasive Haemophilus influenzae disease, tetanus, typhoid fever, invasive meningococcal disease, Japanese encephalitis, influenza, varicella, mumps and pertussis by calculating descriptive statistics of reported cases and reviewing trends. (See Annex A for details of reviewed diseases.). Results Our findings showed notable incidences of rubella (1.78 per 100 000 person-years), influenza (243.5 cases per sentinel site), and mumps (40.1 per sentinel site); seasonal increases for influenza (November-May) and Japanese encephalitis (August-November); and a geographical concentration of Japanese encephalitis in western Japan. Measles cases decreased from 11 013 in 2008 to 35 in 2015, but outbreaks (n = 165 cases) associated with importation occurred in 2016. Though invasive meningococcal disease incidence was only 0.03 per 100 000, international transmission occurred at a mass gathering in Japan in 2015. Discussion Ministries of health and related organizations should use these findings to develop targeted pre-travel advice for travellers to the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the 2020 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, especially for mumps, measles, rubella, influenza, and meningitis. Travellers with increased exposure risk should also be advised about hepatitis A and Japanese encephalitis.
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Effect of Tdap upon antibody response to meningococcal polysaccharide when administered before, with or after the quadrivalent meningococcal TT-conjugate vaccine (coadministered with the 13-valent pneumococcal CRM197-conjugate vaccine) in adult Hajj pilgrims: A randomised controlled trial. Vaccine 2018; 36:4375-4382. [PMID: 29880243 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hajj pilgrims are susceptible to several serious infections and are required to receive multiple vaccinations. Polysaccharide-protein conjugate vaccines contain carrier proteins such as tetanus toxoid (TT), diphtheria toxoid or a mutant of diphtheria toxoid (CRM197). These carrier proteins may interact with other conjugate or combination vaccines containing tetanus or diphtheria on concurrent or sequential administration. We examined the immune interaction of separate and concomitant administration of a tetanus/diphtheria/acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine with a TT-conjugated quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine (MCV4) (coadministered with 13-valent pneumococcal CRM197-conjugate vaccine [PCV13]) in adult Australian pilgrims before attending Hajj in 2015. We randomly assigned each participant to one of three vaccination schedules. Group 1 received Tdap 3-4 weeks before receiving MCV4 coadministered with PCV13. Group 2 received all three vaccines concomitantly. Group 3 received MCV4 and PCV13 3-4 weeks before Tdap. Blood samples were collected at baseline, at each vaccination visit and 3-4 weeks after vaccination and tested for response to meningococcal serogroups C, W and Y using a serum bactericidal antibody (rSBA) assay with baby rabbit complement, and to diphtheria and tetanus toxoid, measuring IgG antibodies by ELISA. Participants completed symptom diaries after each vaccination. A total of 166 participants aged 18-64 (median 42) years were recruited, of whom 160 completed the study. Compared to the other groups, Group 1 (given Tdap first) had significantly lower proportion of subjects achieving a ≥4-fold rise in rSBA for serogroup W. No difference was detected across the three groups in achieving protection threshold (rSBA ≥8 post vaccination) or SBA geometric mean titre (GMT) post vaccination. Group 3, which was given MCV4/PCV13 first, had high levels of antibody against diphtheria and tetanus than the other groups, when tested prior to receipt of Tdap; Only the anti-tetanus responses remained significantly higher after Tdap administration. No serious adverse events were reported. In conclusion, when multiple vaccination is required for Hajj pilgrims, administering Tdap concurrently with MCV4/PCV13 produces adequate immune responses, and avoids meningococcal immune interference, in the convenience of a single consultation. However, giving Tdap 3-4 weeks after MCV4/PCV13 has the advantage of an enhanced tetanus toxoid response. The trial is Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12613000536763.
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Aziz MM, Abd El-Megeed HS, Abd Ellatif MAM. Pre-travel health seeking practices of Umrah pilgrims departing from Assiut International Airport, Egypt. Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 23:72-76. [PMID: 29689385 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES to assess the health seeking practices and their determinants among Umrah pilgrims departing from Assiut international Airport. METHODS We interviewed 300 pilgrims departing from Assiut International Airport while they were in the departure lounge, using a semi-structured questionnaire. RESULTS Only 60%, 46.3% and 46.3% of Umrah pilgrims believed in importance of pre-travel vaccination, seeking health information, and health examination, respectively. The most frequently practiced pre-travel health related behaviour was getting vaccinated (56.3%), as compared to much lower frequencies of seeking health information (24%) or having a clinical health examination (26.7%). Private clinics, internet and the tourism companies were the main sources of health information of the pilgrims. Positive attitude of pilgrims about health seeking practices, the perception of health risk of travelling to Hajj/Umrah and having a chronic disease were the predictors of pre-travel health practices. CONCLUSION Raising awareness among Hajj/Umrah pilgrims about the importance of seeking professional pre-travel health advice and communicating the risk of exposure to travel-related diseases to pilgrims could be important strategies to improve the uptake of preventive measures. Training of general practitioners in the public health sector about the travel health information would promote the travel health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirette M Aziz
- Department of Public Health & Community Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt.
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Alfelali M, Barasheed O, Badahdah AM, Bokhary H, Azeem MI, Habeebullah T, Bakarman M, Asghar A, Booy R, Rashid H. Influenza vaccination among Saudi Hajj pilgrims: Revealing the uptake and vaccination barriers. Vaccine 2018; 36:2112-2118. [PMID: 29555221 PMCID: PMC7115686 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Hajj is the world’s largest annual mass gathering that attracts two to three million Muslims from around the globe to a religious assemblage in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The risk of acquisition and transmission of influenza among Hajj pilgrims is high. Therefore, influenza vaccination is recommended, and was monitored frequently among pilgrims from different countries. However, the vaccination uptake among Saudi pilgrims has not been assessed in recent years. Objective This analysis aims to evaluate influenza vaccine uptake among Saudi Hajj pilgrims, and identify the key barriers to vaccination. Method Data on influenza vaccination were obtained from Saudi pilgrims who took part in a large trial during the Hajj of 2013, 2014 and 2015. Pilgrims were met and recruited in Mina, Makkah during the peak period of Hajj and were asked to complete a baseline questionnaire that recorded their influenza vaccination history, including reason(s) for non-receipt of vaccine. Results A total of 6974 Saudi pilgrims aged between 18 and 95 (median 34) years were recruited; male to female ratio was 1:1.2. Of the total, 90.8% declared their influenza vaccination history, 51.3% of them reported receiving influenza vaccine before travel to Hajj. The vaccination rates for the years 2013, 2014 and 2015 were 21.4%, 48.2% and 58.1%, respectively (P < 0.001). Of 1,269 pilgrims who were at higher risk of severe disease, 54.5% received the vaccine. Lack of awareness (47.5%), reliance on natural immunity (15.8%) and being busy (15.5%) were the main reasons for non-receipt. Conclusion These data from a convenience sample indicate that influenza vaccine uptake among Saudi Hajj pilgrims is increasing over years but still needs further improvement. Lack of awareness and misperceptions are the main barriers. Education of Saudi pilgrims and health professionals is required to raise awareness about influenza vaccination. Further studies are needed to understand pilgrims’ misperceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Alfelali
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, and The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Osamah Barasheed
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, and The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; The Executive Administration of Research and Innovation at King Abdullah Medical City in Holy Capital (KAMC-HC), Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Al-Mamoon Badahdah
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, and The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamid Bokhary
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Australia; Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed I Azeem
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, and The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Turki Habeebullah
- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marwan Bakarman
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Atif Asghar
- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Robert Booy
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, and The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, and The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Australia
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Alfelali M, Alqahtani AS, Barasheed O, Booy R, Rashid H. Mandating influenza vaccine for Hajj pilgrims. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018; 16:633-634. [PMID: 27301914 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(16)30064-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Alfelali
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Amani S Alqahtani
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Osamah Barasheed
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; The Executive Administration of Research, King Abdullah Medical City (KAMC), Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Robert Booy
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Alqahtani AS, Heywood AE, Rashid H. Preparing Australian pilgrims for the Hajj 2018. J Travel Med 2018; 25:5076078. [PMID: 30137409 PMCID: PMC7107520 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/tay068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anita E Heywood
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
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Public response to MERS-CoV in the Middle East: iPhone survey in six countries. J Infect Public Health 2017; 10:534-540. [PMID: 28185821 PMCID: PMC7102840 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2016.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries bear the heaviest brunt of MERS-CoV. This study aims to compare public awareness and practice around MERS-CoV across GCC countries. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using the Gulf Indicators (GI) smartphone app among people in the six GCC countries, namely Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. A total of 1812 participants recruited. All were aware of MERS-CoV, yet the perception and practice around MERS-CoV varied widely between countries. Over two thirds were either "not concerned" or "slightly concerned" about contracting MERS-CoV; believing that they were under Allah's (God's) protection (40%) was the most cited reason. While 79% were aware that the disease can transmit through droplet from infected person, only 12% stated that MERS-CoV transmits via camels; people in Saudi Arabia were better aware of the transmission. Nevertheless, only 22% of respondents believed that camels are the zoonotic reservoir of MERS-CoV. Those who were concerned about contracting MERS-CoV (aOR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.2-2.1, p<0.01) and those who thought MERS-CoV to be a severe disease only for those with high-risk conditions (aOR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1-2.1, p<0.01) were more likely to believe that camels are the zoonotic source. However, residents of KSA (aOR: 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01-0.07, p<0.01), UAE (aOR: 0.01, 95% CI: 0.004-0.02, p<0.01) and Kuwait (aOR: 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01-0.07, p<0.01) were less likely to believe that camels are the main zoonotic source compared to respondents from the other countries. Hygienic measures were more commonly adopted than avoidance of camels or their raw products, yet there was a discrepancy between the countries. This study highlights that despite being aware of the ongoing MERS-CoV epidemic; many people lack accurate understanding about MERS-CoV transmission, prevention, and are not fully compliant with preventive measures.
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Razavi SM, Saeednejad M, Salamati P. Vaccination in Hajj: An Overview of the Recent Findings. Int J Prev Med 2016; 7:129. [PMID: 28105294 PMCID: PMC5200976 DOI: 10.4103/2008-7802.195826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: About two million people annually travel to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj. The pilgrims may be at risk of exposure to communicable diseases in this mass gathering and their vaccination against contagious diseases can prevent many morbidities and mortalities. The aim of our study was to review the papers which evaluated effectiveness and compliance of the vaccines applied in Hajj. Methods: We used PubMed and Scopus to search international medical databases. The key words were as follows: Hajj, Haj, vaccine, vaccination, and immunization. The time interval of the search was from the beginning of 2010 to May 23, 2016. One hundred and thirty papers were extracted, and their contents were subsequently reviewed after title and abstract screenings. The original articles were included in the study and non-English articles were excluded from the study. Results: Considering the extracted papers, almost all pilgrims were vaccinated against meningococcal diseases. Using of influenza and pneumococcal vaccine rates were different among the pilgrims. The other vaccines have been taking according to specific conditions. Conclusions: The findings regarding influenza vaccine effectiveness are contradictory. A few studies confirmed the flu vaccine effectiveness while some others rejected its usefulness. Meningococcal immunization is an effective preventive tool with high compliance for Hajj pilgrims. Further investigations are recommended for the other vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mansour Razavi
- Department of Community Medicine, Research Center for Rational Use of Drugs, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Saeednejad
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Tehran Medical Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Payman Salamati
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Alqahtani AS, Yamazaki K, Alqahtani WH, Tashani M, Heywood AE, Booy R, Wiley KE, Rashid H. Australian Hajj pilgrims' perception about mass casualty incidents versus emerging infections at Hajj. Travel Med Infect Dis 2016; 15:81-83. [PMID: 27856351 PMCID: PMC7128702 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2016.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amani S Alqahtani
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia; School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Kaoruko Yamazaki
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wejdan H Alqahtani
- King Khalid University, School of Applied Medical Science, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Tashani
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia; The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anita E Heywood
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert Booy
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia; The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney, Australia; WHO Collaborating Centre for Mass Gatherings and High Consequence/High Visibility Events, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kerrie E Wiley
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia; School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), The Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia; The Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney, Australia
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Zumla A, McCloskey B, Bin Saeed AA, Dar O, Al Otabi B, Perlmann S, Gautret P, Roy N, Blumberg L, Azhar EI, Barbeschi M, Memish Z, Petersen E. What is the experience from previous mass gathering events? Lessons for Zika virus and the Olympics 2016. Int J Infect Dis 2016; 47:1-4. [PMID: 27321962 PMCID: PMC7110488 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2016.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
All previous experiences from different mass gathering show that vaccine preventable diseases is the most important infections like influemza, hepatitis A, polio and meningitis. Three mass gathering held in Africa during the Ebola outbreak accepted participants from West Africa and was able to handle the theoretical risk without any incident. Therefore we believe that the Olympc games in Rio de Janeiro should not be canceled. The number of visitors to the games is a tine fraction (1%) of other visitors to Zika endemic con tries and it will have no measurable effect on the risk of spreading Zika virus, if the games was cancelled.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zumla
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - B McCloskey
- Global Health Department, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - A A Bin Saeed
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - O Dar
- Public Health England, London, UK
| | - B Al Otabi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Office of the Deputy Minister for Preventive Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - S Perlmann
- Department of Microbiology, University of Iowa, Iowa, USA
| | - P Gautret
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Unit, North Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - N Roy
- Environmental Health Resource Hub, School of Habitat Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Deonar, Mumbai, India
| | - L Blumberg
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Division of Public Health Surveillance and Response, Sandringham, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - E I Azhar
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center and Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - M Barbeschi
- World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Z Memish
- Ministry of Health, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - E Petersen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, The Royal Hospital, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.
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Tashani M, Alfelali M, Azeem MI, Fatema FN, Barasheed O, Alqahtani AS, Tekin H, Rashid H, Booy R. Barriers of vaccinations against serious bacterial infections among Australian Hajj pilgrims. Postgrad Med 2016; 128:541-7. [PMID: 27233684 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2016.1191956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vaccination against serious bacterial infections is recommended for Hajj pilgrims. Although the uptake of mandatory vaccines among Hajj pilgrims is acceptable, the uptake of other recommended vaccines remains suboptimal. In this study, we have explored the barriers to vaccination against serious bacterial infections among Australian Hajj pilgrims. METHODS Travellers aged 18 years and older planning to attend Hajj in the years 2014 and 2015 were surveyed at the immunization clinic of the Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to explore pilgrims' vaccination histories for their previous visits to Mecca, the reasons for non-receipt of vaccination, and to assess knowledge about the transmission of infections. RESULTS A total of 300 participants aged 18-76 (median 41) years completed the survey. Most (233 [77.7%]) were born outside Australia. Overall, 113 (37.7%) had performed pilgrimage in the past; 19 (16.8%) of them reported receiving pneumococcal vaccine and 16 (14.1%) diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTP) vaccine. Lack of awareness about the availability of the vaccines was the main reason for non-receipt of pneumococcal and DTP vaccines (respectively 41.1% and 44.7%). Most pilgrims (266 [88.7%]) believed that travel vaccines are necessary before embarking on a journey; however, some expressed concerns about adverse reactions (156 [52.0%]), cost (114 [38.0%]), and permissibility of the vaccine according to their religion (6 [2.0%]). Respectively, 187 (62.3%), 145 (48.3%) and 86 (28.7%) respondents did not correctly know how meningococcal and pneumococcal diseases and pertussis transmit. Nevertheless, most (256 [85.3%]) indicated that they trust their family doctor for medical information and most (203 [67.7%]) preferred to receive the medical information in English. CONCLUSION The uptake of recommended vaccines against serious bacterial infections among Australian Hajj pilgrims is low. Lack of awareness about the availability of vaccines, misperceptions surrounding the safety of vaccines and high cost are key barriers of uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Tashani
- a National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) , The Children's Hospital at Westmead , Sydney , Australia.,b Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia
| | - Mohammad Alfelali
- a National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) , The Children's Hospital at Westmead , Sydney , Australia.,b Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia.,c Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh , King Abdulaziz University , Jeddah , Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Irfan Azeem
- a National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) , The Children's Hospital at Westmead , Sydney , Australia.,b Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia
| | - Fayeza Nusrat Fatema
- a National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) , The Children's Hospital at Westmead , Sydney , Australia
| | - Osamah Barasheed
- a National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) , The Children's Hospital at Westmead , Sydney , Australia.,b Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia.,d The Executive Administration of Research , King Abdullah Medical City (KAMC) , Makkah , Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Salem Alqahtani
- a National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) , The Children's Hospital at Westmead , Sydney , Australia.,e School of Public Health , The University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia
| | - Hatice Tekin
- a National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) , The Children's Hospital at Westmead , Sydney , Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- a National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) , The Children's Hospital at Westmead , Sydney , Australia.,b Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia.,f Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia
| | - Robert Booy
- a National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) , The Children's Hospital at Westmead , Sydney , Australia.,b Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia.,f Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Biological Sciences and Sydney Medical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia.,g WHO Collaborating Centre for Mass Gatherings and High Consequence/High Visibility Events , Flinders University , Adelaide , Australia
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Zhang M, Zhang J, Hao Y, Fan Z, Li L, Li Y, Ju W, Zhang H, Liu W, Zhang M, Wu D, He H. Vaccination knowledge, attitude and practice among Chinese travelers who visit travel clinics in Preparation for international travel. J Travel Med 2016; 23:taw051. [PMID: 27503852 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taw051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although international travel has become increasingly more common in main land China, few data are available on vaccination knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) among Chinese travelers. METHOD In each of 14 International Travel Healthcare Centers (ITHCs) situated in mainland China 200 volunteers were recruited for a cross-sectional investigation by questionnaire on KAP related to travel vaccinations. For the evaluation the study subjects were grouped by demographic data, past travel experience, travel destination, duration of stay abroad, purpose of travel. RESULTS Among the 2,800 Chinese travelers who participated in the study, 67.1% were aware of national and travel vaccination recommendations. The knowledge about vaccine preventable diseases was low. The most common sources (73.4%) of information were requirements by destination countries obtained in connection with the visa application, Chinese companies employing workers/laborers for assignments overseas, and foreign schools. The overall acceptance rate of recommended vaccines was 68.7%, but yellow fever was accepted by 99.8% of the participants when recommended. Among 81.1% respondents who recalled to have received vaccinations in the past, only 25.9% of them brought the old vaccination records with them to their ITHC consultations. CONCLUSION The results indicate that increased awareness of the importance of pre-travel vaccination is needed among the travellers in order to improve their KAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Guangdong International Healthcare Center (Guangdong ITHC), Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianming Zhang
- Guangdong International Healthcare Center (Guangdong ITHC), Guangzhou, China
| | - Yutong Hao
- Chongqing International Travel Healthcare Center (Chongqing ITHC), Chongqing, China
| | - ZhengXing Fan
- Hunan International Travel Healthcare Center (Hunan ITHC). Changsha, China
| | - Lei Li
- Yantai International Travel Healthcare Center (Yantai ITHC). Yantai, China
| | - Yiguang Li
- Jilin International Travel Healthcare Center (Jilin ITHC). Jilin, China
| | - Wendong Ju
- Heilongjiang International Travel Healthcare Center (Heilongjiang ITHC). Harbin, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Shanghai International Travel Healthcare Center (Shanghai ITHC). Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Jiangxi International Travel Healthcare Center (Jiangxi ITHC). Nanchang, China
| | - Mengzhang Zhang
- Fujian International Travel Healthcare Center (Fujian ITHC). Fuzhou, China
| | - Di Wu
- Shaanxi International Travel Healthcare Center (Shaanxi ITHC). Xi'an, China
| | - Hongtao He
- Guangdong International Healthcare Center (Guangdong ITHC), Guangzhou, China
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Alqahtani AS, Wiley KE, Mushta SM, Yamazaki K, BinDhim NF, Heywood AE, Booy R, Rashid H. Association between Australian Hajj Pilgrims' awareness of MERS-CoV, and their compliance with preventive measures and exposure to camels. J Travel Med 2016; 23:taw046. [PMID: 27432904 PMCID: PMC7107559 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taw046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Through a prospective cohort study the relationship between travellers' awareness of MERS-CoV, and compliance with preventive measures and exposure to camels was evaluated among Australian Hajj pilgrims who attended Hajj in 2015. Only 28% of Australian Hajj pilgrims were aware of MERS-CoV in Saudi Arabia. Those who were aware of MERS-CoV were more likely to receive recommended vaccines [odds ratio (OR) 3.1, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.5-5.9, P < 0.01], but there was no significant difference in avoiding camels or their raw products during Hajj between those who were aware of MERS-CoV and those who were not (OR 1.2, 95% CI: 0.3-5.2, P = 0.7). Hajj pilgrims' awareness is reflected in some of their practices but not in all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani S Alqahtani
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), Australia, NSW.,School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kerrie E Wiley
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), Australia, NSW.,School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sami M Mushta
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Ministry of Health, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kaoruko Yamazaki
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nasser F BinDhim
- Health Informatics Department, Saudi Electronic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anita E Heywood
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert Booy
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), Australia, NSW.,Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney, Australia.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Mass Gatherings and High Consequence/High Visibility Events, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (NCIRS), Australia, NSW.,Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney, Australia
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