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Alandijany TA. Respiratory viral infections during Hajj seasons. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17 Suppl 1:42-48. [PMID: 37085376 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory viral infections pose a public health concern during mass gathering (MG) events. Sustainable and continuous surveillance of respiratory viruses remains a priority to early identify and prevent potential outbreaks. This article reviews recent literature addressed the prevalence and diversity of circulating respiratory viruses during Hajj pilgrimage, one of the largest planned religious MG events held annually in Saudi Arabia. The variation between studies with respect to study design, sample size, time of sample collection (pre-, during, and pos-Hajj), type of participants (e.g., symptomatic vs. a symptomatic pilgrims), and laboratory procedure was highlighted. The majority of these studies were conducted on the 2019 Hajj season or earlier, prior to the emergence of COVID-19 which had significant impact on the past three Hajj seasons (2020, 2021, and 2022). A summary about key aspects related to organization of Hajj during COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of exceptional infection control strategies is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamir A Alandijany
- Special Infectious Agents Unit BSL-3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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2
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Shahrajabian MH, Sun W. Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM) and Natural Remedies for Treatment of the Common Cold and Flu. Rev Recent Clin Trials 2024; 19:91-100. [PMID: 38047364 DOI: 10.2174/0115748871275500231127065053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Traditional Iranian medicine is usually used for both prevention and relief of cold and flu symptoms in China, Iran, and many other Asian countries all over the world. There are 4 kinds of influenza viruses. Unlike type B, which may cause seasonal epidemics, type A viruses can cause pandemics, and influenza C may lead to mild human infection with little public health effects. A literature review was done by using multiple databases such as ISI Web of knowledge, PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar. The most notable antiviral medicinal plants for flu and cold are honeysuckle flowers, thyme leaf, green chiretta, andrographis, peppermint oil and leaf and calendula. The most important expectorant medicinal plants for cold and flu are snake root, tulsi, licorice root, slippery elm, clove, and sage leaf. Recommended immunostimulant medicinal plants for cold and flu are eucalyptus, Echinacea root, ginseng, garlic, slippery elm, marshmallow, Usnea lichen, Isatis root, ginger root, and myrrh resin. Iranian traditional medicine, which is one of the oldest schools of traditional medicine, is one of the main concepts of disease and health, and it can be considered as an important complementary and alternative medicine, as in some cases, modern medicine has many side effects, low efficiency, and high costs. Medicinal plants and herbs, which are included in many traditional systems, have significant and promising bioactive components in organic life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wenli Sun
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
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Mahdi HA, Alluhidan M, Almohammed AB, Alfelali M, Shaban RZ, Booy R, Rashid H. Epidemiological Differences in Hajj-Acquired Airborne Infections in Pilgrims Arriving from Low and Middle-Income versus High-Income Countries: A Systematised Review. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:418. [PMID: 37624356 PMCID: PMC10459586 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8080418] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematised review aims to compare the epidemiological patterns of Hajj-acquired airborne infections among pilgrims from low and middle-income countries (LMIC) versus those from high-income countries (HIC). A PubMed search was carried out for all published articles before February 2023, using a combination of MeSH terms and text words. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess data quality. From a total of 453 titles identified, 58 studies were included in the review (LMIC = 32, and HIC = 26). In the pooled sample, there were 27,799 pilgrims aged 2 days to 105 years (male: female = 1.3:1) from LMIC and 70,865 pilgrims aged 2 months to 95 years (male: female = 1:1) from HIC. Pilgrims from both HIC and LMIC had viral and bacterial infections, but pilgrims from HIC tended to have higher attack rates of viral infections than their LMIC counterparts. However, the attack rates of bacterial infections were variable: for instance, pilgrims from LMIC seemed to have higher rates of meningococcal infections (0.015-82% in LMIC vs. 0.002-40% in HIC) based on the study population, but not Mycobacterium tuberculosis (0.7-20.3% in LMIC vs. 38% in HIC). Targeted measures are needed to prevent the spread of airborne infections at Hajj.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hashim A. Mahdi
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Saudi Electronic University, Jeddah 23442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alluhidan
- General Directorate for National Health Economics and Policy, Saudi Health Council, Riyadh 13315, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammad Alfelali
- Family and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 25732, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramon Z. Shaban
- New South Wales Biocontainment Centre, New South Wales Ministry of Health, Westmead, NSW 2151, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Susan Wakil School of Nursing, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Public Health Unit, Centre for Population Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, North Parramatta, NSW 2151, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Robert Booy
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Harunor Rashid
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
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Shatizadeh Malekshahi S, Khani F, Shafiei-Jandaghi NZ, Shadab A, Mokhtari-Azad T, Yavarian J. Prevalence and Genotypes of Human Rhinoviruses among Iranian Hajj Pilgrims with Severe Acute Respiratory Infection. TANAFFOS 2022; 21:448-454. [PMID: 37583781 PMCID: PMC10423871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Background Hajj is one of the main challenges of public health and infection control. Hajj-associated respiratory tract infections are very common during the pilgrimage. Studies have shown that human rhinovirus (HRV) is one of the most common causes of respiratory illnesses among pilgrims. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and genotypes of HRV among Iranian pilgrims with severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) during the 2017 Hajj season. Materials and Methods Throat swabs or washes were collected from 104 pilgrims with SARI and transported to the National Influenza Center, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Specimens were screened for HRV by Nested PCR with primers for 5'UTR, and virus genotypes were determined using PCR with VP4-VP2 primers and sequencing method. Results Twenty-one cases were positive for HRV (20.19 %). The HRV species and types of 8 positive samples were: HRV-A21 (1/8, 12.5%), followed by HRV-B91 (3/8, 37.5%) and HRV-C (4/8, 50%) un-typed. Conclusion This study showed that HRV has a high prevalence in Iranian Hajj pilgrims. As there is no vaccine or antiviral therapy for HRV, prevention methods are the best way for infection control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fariba Khani
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Azadeh Shadab
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Talat Mokhtari-Azad
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jila Yavarian
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Research Center for Antibiotic Stewardship and Antimicrobial Resistance, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Soudani S, Mafi A, Al Mayahi Z, Al Balushi S, Dbaibo G, Al Awaidy S, Amiche A. A Systematic Review of Influenza Epidemiology and Surveillance in the Eastern Mediterranean and North African Region. Infect Dis Ther 2022; 11:15-52. [PMID: 34997913 PMCID: PMC8742167 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-021-00534-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Seasonal influenza represents a huge health burden, resulting in significant mortality and morbidity. Following the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, focus has been directed on the burden of influenza globally. Country and regional disease burden estimates play important roles in helping inform decisions on national influenza intervention programmes. Despite improvements in influenza surveillance following the 2009 pandemic, many opportunities remain unexplored in the Eastern Mediterranean and North African (EMNA) region, which has a high prevalence of patients with chronic disease and thus a population at high risk of influenza complications. We conducted a systematic literature review of Embase, Medline, Scopus and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from 1 January 1998 to 31 January 2020 covering the EMNA region with the aim to describe the epidemiology of influenza in the region and assess the influenza epidemiological surveillance research landscape. Relevant data on study characteristics, population, clinical/virology characteristics and epidemiology were extracted and summarised descriptively. Of the 112 studies identified for inclusion, 90 were conducted in the Eastern Mediterranean region, 19 in North Africa and three across the EMNA region. Data were reported on 314,058 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases, 96 of which were derived from surveillance systems. Amongst the surveillance studies, the percentage of positive cases reported ranged from 1% to 100%. The predominantly identified influenza strain was strain A; H1N1 was the most prominent circulating subtype. Typing was performed in approximately 75% and subtyping in 50% of studies, respectively. Data on those considered most at risk for influenza complications were collected in 21% of studies, highlighting a regional gap for these data. Our review reveals existing gaps in regional estimates of influenza health and economic burden, hospitalisation rates and duration, and highlights the need for robust and high-quality epidemiology data to help inform public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ghassan Dbaibo
- Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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6
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Novel Respiratory Viruses in the Context of Mass-Gathering Events: A Systematic Review to Inform Event Planning from a Health Perspective. Prehosp Disaster Med 2021; 36:599-610. [PMID: 34261546 DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x21000662] [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: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mass-gathering events (MGEs) occur regularly throughout the world. As people congregate at MGEs, there is an increased risk of transmission of communicable diseases. Novel respiratory viruses, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-1 (SARS-CoV-1), Influenza A Virus Subtype H1N1 Strain 2009 (H1N1pdm09), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), or Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), may require specific infection prevention and control strategies to minimize the risk of transmission when planning MGEs. This literature review aimed to identify and analyze papers relating to novel respiratory viruses with pandemic potential and to inform MGE planning. METHOD This paper used a systematic literature review method. Various health care databases were searched using keywords relating to MGEs and novel respiratory viruses. Information was extracted from identified papers into various tables for analysis. The analysis identified infection prevention and control strategies used at MGEs to inform planning before, during, and following events. RESULTS In total, 27 papers met the criteria for inclusion. No papers were identified regarding SARS-CoV-1, while the remainder reported on H1N1pdm09 (n = 9), MERS-CoV (n = 15), and SARS-CoV-2 (n = 3). Various before, during, and after event mitigation strategies were identified that can be implemented for future events. CONCLUSIONS This literature review provided an overview of the novel respiratory virus epidemiology at MGEs alongside related public health mitigation strategies that have been implemented at these events. This paper also discusses the health security of event participants and host communities in the context of cancelling, postponing, and modifying events due to a novel respiratory virus. In particular, ways to recommence events incorporating various mitigation strategies are outlined.
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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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Moghadam MT, Taati B, Paydar Ardakani SM, Suzuki K. Ramadan Fasting During the COVID-19 Pandemic; Observance of Health, Nutrition and Exercise Criteria for Improving the Immune System. Front Nutr 2021; 7:570235. [PMID: 33521030 PMCID: PMC7838371 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2020.570235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fasting is one of the religious rituals of Muslims worldwide who refrain from eating foods and liquids every year during Ramadan. This year (2020), Ramadan is very different from previous years due to the outbreak of a terrible microscopic giant called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The pandemic COVID-19 has made Ramadan very important this year because the virus has infected millions of people around the world and killed thousands, especially people with immunodeficiency. In dealing with COVID-19, maintaining good hygiene and supporting the immune system are effective, preventive approaches. Moderate exercise training and proper nutrition are the most important factors to support immune function. Lack of facilities, poor health and many traditions that lead to public community gatherings have made many Islamic countries susceptible to this dangerous virus. In such an unprecedented situation, there are many Muslims who doubt whether they can fast or not. Therefore, the proposal of usable exercise programs and effective nutritional strategies is imperative. In this study, we will look at the proposed health effects of fasting and its impact on the immune system, the effects of Ramadan intermittent fasting on resting values and responses of immunological/antioxidant biomarkers in elite and recreational athletes, together with the important health, nutrition, and exercise advice that fasting people need to follow in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Taati Moghadam
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behzad Taati
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
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9
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Shahrajabian MH, Sun W, Cheng Q. Product of natural evolution (SARS, MERS, and SARS-CoV-2); deadly diseases, from SARS to SARS-CoV-2. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:62-83. [PMID: 32783700 PMCID: PMC7872062 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2020.1797369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, is a single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the order Nidovirales, family Coronaviridae, and subfamily Coronavirinae. SARS-CoV-2 entry to cellsis initiated by the binding of the viral spike protein (S) to its cellular receptor. The roles of S protein in receptor binding and membrane fusion makes it a prominent target for vaccine development. SARS-CoV-2 genome sequence analysis has shown that this virus belongs to the beta-coronavirus genus, which includes Bat SARS-like coronavirus, SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. A vaccine should induce a balanced immune response to elicit protective immunity. In this review, we compare and contrast these three important CoV diseases and how they inform on vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wenli Sun
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Cheng
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China
- Global Alliance of HeBAU-CLS&HeQiS for BioAl-Manufacturing, Baoding, Hebei, China
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10
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AL-Eitan LN, Tarkhan AH, Alghamdi MA, Marston DA, Wu G, McElhinney LM, Brown IH, Fooks AR. Bat-Borne Coronaviruses in Jordan and Saudi Arabia: A Threat to Public Health? Viruses 2020; 12:E1413. [PMID: 33316899 PMCID: PMC7764733 DOI: 10.3390/v12121413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging infectious diseases are of great concern to public health, as highlighted by the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Such diseases are of particular danger during mass gathering and mass influx events, as large crowds of people in close proximity to each other creates optimal opportunities for disease transmission. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are two countries that have witnessed mass gatherings due to the arrival of Syrian refugees and the annual Hajj season. The mass migration of people not only brings exotic diseases to these regions but also brings new diseases back to their own countries, e.g., the outbreak of MERS in South Korea. Many emerging pathogens originate in bats, and more than 30 bat species have been identified in these two countries. Some of those bat species are known to carry viruses that cause deadly diseases in other parts of the world, such as the rabies virus and coronaviruses. However, little is known about bats and the pathogens they carry in Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Here, the importance of enhanced surveillance of bat-borne infections in Jordan and Saudi Arabia is emphasized, promoting the awareness of bat-borne diseases among the general public and building up infrastructure and capability to fill the gaps in public health preparedness to prevent future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laith N. AL-Eitan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan;
| | - Amneh H. Tarkhan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan;
| | - Mansour A. Alghamdi
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia;
- Genomics and Personalized Medicine Unit, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Denise A. Marston
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (D.A.M.); (G.W.); (L.M.M.); (I.H.B.); (A.R.F.)
| | - Guanghui Wu
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (D.A.M.); (G.W.); (L.M.M.); (I.H.B.); (A.R.F.)
| | - Lorraine M. McElhinney
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (D.A.M.); (G.W.); (L.M.M.); (I.H.B.); (A.R.F.)
| | - Ian H. Brown
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (D.A.M.); (G.W.); (L.M.M.); (I.H.B.); (A.R.F.)
| | - Anthony R. Fooks
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey KT15 3NB, UK; (D.A.M.); (G.W.); (L.M.M.); (I.H.B.); (A.R.F.)
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Azhar IR, Mohraz M, Mardani M, Tavakoli MA, Afshar AE, Zamani M, Sadeghpoor S, Safari S, Dadashpoor R, Rezaee M, Shirvani F, Azimi S, Heydarifard Z, Ranjbar HH, Lotfi AH, Mosadegh F, Hashemnejad F, Jazayeri SM. Influenza species and subtypes circulation among hospitalized patients in Laleh hospital during two influenza seasonal (2016-2017 and 2017-2018) using a multiplex Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction. Infect Dis Rep 2020; 12:8139. [PMID: 32318254 PMCID: PMC7171471 DOI: 10.4081/idr.2020.8139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques has improved the detection of respiratory viruses, particularly with the use of multiplex real-time technique with the capability of simultaneous detection of various pathogens in a single reaction. The aim of this study was to apply the above technology for the diagnosis of influenza infections and at the same time to differentiate between common flu species between hospitalized patients in Laleh hospital (Iran) between two flu seasons (2016-2017 and 2017-2018). Different respiratory specimens were collected from 540 patients from a period of December 2016 to May 2018 and were sent to the laboratory for molecular diagnosis. RNAs were extracted and subsequently, a multiplex real time PCR identifying flu A, flu B and typing flu A (H1N1) was carried out. The mean age of patients was 47.54±23.96. 216 (40%) and 321 (60%) of subjects were male and female, respectively. 219 out of 540 (40.5%) were positive for influenza infection including flu A (n=97, 44.3%), flu A (H1N1) (n=45, 20.7%) and flu B (n=77, 35%). Flu A was the dominant species on 2016-2017 and flu B was the major species on 2017-2018. Flu A (H1N1) was comparable in both time periods. Flu infections were most frequently diagnosed in age groups 21-40. Flu-positive patients suffered more from body pain and sore throat than flunegative patients with significant statistical difference (P values <0.001). The mean duration of hospitalization was shorter for flu-positive patients (P value = 0.016). Application of multiplex real time PCR could facilitate the influenza diagnosis in a short period of time, benefiting patients from exclusion of bacterial infections and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic therapy. Influenza diagnosis was not achieved in up to 60% of flu-like respiratory infections, suggesting the potential benefit of adopting the same methodology for assessing the involvement of other viral or/and bacterial pathogens in those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Minoo Mohraz
- Infection Control Office, Laleh Hospital, Tehran.,Internal Medicine, Gynecology and Surgery Wards Laleh Hospital, Tehran
| | - Masoud Mardani
- Infection Control Office, Laleh Hospital, Tehran.,Internal Medicine, Gynecology and Surgery Wards Laleh Hospital, Tehran
| | | | | | - Mohammad Zamani
- Genetic Laboratory and Molecular Diagnosis, Laleh Hospital, Tehran
| | | | - Saeid Safari
- Infection Control Office, Laleh Hospital, Tehran
| | | | - Mahsa Rezaee
- Genetic Laboratory and Molecular Diagnosis, Laleh Hospital, Tehran
| | - Fariba Shirvani
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shohreh Azimi
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Heydarifard
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Villamil-Gómez WE, Sánchez Á, Gelis L, Silvera LA, Barbosa J, Otero-Nader O, Bonilla-Salgado CD, Rodríguez-Morales AJ. Fatal human coronavirus 229E (HCoV-229E) and RSV-Related pneumonia in an AIDS patient from Colombia. Travel Med Infect Dis 2020; 36:101573. [PMID: 32035270 PMCID: PMC7128323 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2020.101573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wilmer E Villamil-Gómez
- Research Group Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Hospital Universitario de Sincelejo, Sincelejo, Colombia; Doctoral Program of Tropical Medicine, Universidad del Atlántico, Barraquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Álvaro Sánchez
- Intensive Care Unit, Clínica Santa María, Sincelejo, Sucre, Colombia
| | - Libardo Gelis
- Intensive Care Unit, Clínica Santa María, Sincelejo, Sucre, Colombia
| | - Luz Alba Silvera
- Doctoral Program of Tropical Medicine, Universidad del Atlántico, Barraquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Juliana Barbosa
- Group Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses, Laboratory of Virology, Instituto Nacional de Salud, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Carlos David Bonilla-Salgado
- Research Group Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Hospital Universitario de Sincelejo, Sincelejo, Colombia; Universidad del Norte, Barraquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Alfonso J Rodríguez-Morales
- Public Health and Infection Group of Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira, Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia; Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Faculty of Medicine, Fundación Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia.
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Ramshaw RE, Letourneau ID, Hong AY, Hon J, Morgan JD, Osborne JCP, Shirude S, Van Kerkhove MD, Hay SI, Pigott DM. A database of geopositioned Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus occurrences. Sci Data 2019; 6:318. [PMID: 31836720 PMCID: PMC6911100 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-019-0330-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
As a World Health Organization Research and Development Blueprint priority pathogen, there is a need to better understand the geographic distribution of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and its potential to infect mammals and humans. This database documents cases of MERS-CoV globally, with specific attention paid to zoonotic transmission. An initial literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus; after screening articles according to the inclusion/exclusion criteria, a total of 208 sources were selected for extraction and geo-positioning. Each MERS-CoV occurrence was assigned one of the following classifications based upon published contextual information: index, unspecified, secondary, mammal, environmental, or imported. In total, this database is comprised of 861 unique geo-positioned MERS-CoV occurrences. The purpose of this article is to share a collated MERS-CoV database and extraction protocol that can be utilized in future mapping efforts for both MERS-CoV and other infectious diseases. More broadly, it may also provide useful data for the development of targeted MERS-CoV surveillance, which would prove invaluable in preventing future zoonotic spillover. Measurement(s) | Middle East Respiratory Syndrome • geographic location | Technology Type(s) | digital curation | Factor Type(s) | geographic distribution of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) • year | Sample Characteristic - Organism | Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus | Sample Characteristic - Location | Earth (planet) |
Machine-accessible metadata file describing the reported data: 10.6084/m9.figshare.11108801
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Ramshaw
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Ian D Letourneau
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Amy Y Hong
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, United States
| | - Julia Hon
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Julia D Morgan
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Joshua C P Osborne
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Shreya Shirude
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Maria D Van Kerkhove
- Department of Infectious Hazards Management, Health Emergencies Programme, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Simon I Hay
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Health Metrics Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - David M Pigott
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States. .,Department of Health Metrics Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, 2301 5th Ave., Suite 600, Seattle, WA, United States.
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14
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Yezli S, Alotaibi B, Al-Abdely H, Balkhy HH, Yassin Y, Mushi A, Maashi F, Pezzi L, Benkouiten S, Charrel R, Raoult D, Gautret P. Acquisition of respiratory and gastrointestinal pathogens among health care workers during the 2015 Hajj season. Am J Infect Control 2019; 47:1071-1076. [PMID: 30979562 PMCID: PMC7132678 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2019.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on the risk of transmission of infection to health care workers (HCWs) serving ill pilgrims during the Hajj is scarce. METHODS Two cohorts of HCWs, the first serving Hajj pilgrims in Mecca and the second serving patients in Al-Ahsa, were investigated for respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms and pathogen carriage using multiplex polymerase chain reaction before and after the 2015 Hajj. RESULTS A total of 211 HCWs were enrolled of whom 92 were exposed to pilgrims (Mecca cohort), whereas 119 were not exposed (Al-Ahsa cohort). Symptoms were observed only in HCWs from the Mecca cohort, with 29.3% experiencing respiratory symptoms during the Hajj period or in the subsequent days and 3.3% having gastrointestinal symptoms. Acquisition rates of at least 1 respiratory virus were 14.7% in the Mecca cohort and 3.4% in the Al-Ahsa cohort (P = .003). Acquisition rates of at least 1 respiratory bacterium were 11.8% and 18.6% in the Mecca and Al-Ahsa cohorts, respectively (P = .09). Gastrointestinal pathogens were rarely isolated in both cohorts of HCWs and acquisition of pathogens after the Hajj was documented in only a few individuals. CONCLUSIONS HCWs providing care for pilgrims both acquire pathogens and present symptoms (especially respiratory symptoms) more frequently than those not working during Hajj.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saber Yezli
- Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Badriah Alotaibi
- Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hail Al-Abdely
- General Directorate of Infection Prevention and Control, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanan H Balkhy
- King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Infection Prevention and Control Department, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yara Yassin
- Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Mushi
- Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fuad Maashi
- Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laura Pezzi
- UMR “Emergence des Pathologies Virales” (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ–IRD 190–Inserm 1207–EHESP–IHU Méditerranée Infection), Marseille, France
| | - Samir Benkouiten
- Aix Marseille Univ, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Microbes Vecteurs Infections Tropicales et Méditerranéennes (VITROME), Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Rémi Charrel
- UMR “Emergence des Pathologies Virales” (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ–IRD 190–Inserm 1207–EHESP–IHU Méditerranée Infection), Marseille, France
| | - Didier Raoult
- Aix Marseille Univ, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Evolution Phylogénie et Infections (MEPHI), Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Gautret
- Aix Marseille Univ, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Microbes Vecteurs Infections Tropicales et Méditerranéennes (VITROME), Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
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15
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Farrag MA, Hamed ME, Amer HM, Almajhdi FN. Epidemiology of respiratory viruses in Saudi Arabia: toward a complete picture. Arch Virol 2019; 164:1981-1996. [PMID: 31139937 PMCID: PMC7087236 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-019-04300-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Acute lower respiratory tract infection is a major health problem that affects more than 15% of the total population of Saudi Arabia each year. Epidemiological studies conducted over the last three decades have indicated that viruses are responsible for the majority of these infections. The epidemiology of respiratory viruses in Saudi Arabia is proposed to be affected mainly by the presence and mobility of large numbers of foreign workers and the gathering of millions of Muslims in Mecca during the Hajj and Umrah seasons. Knowledge concerning the epidemiology, circulation pattern, and evolutionary kinetics of respiratory viruses in Saudi Arabia are scant, with the available literature being inconsistent. This review summarizes the available data on the epidemiology and evolution of respiratory viruses. The demographic features associated with Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus infections are specifically analyzed for a better understanding of the epidemiology of this virus. The data support the view that continuous entry and exit of pilgrims and foreign workers with different ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds in Saudi Arabia is the most likely vehicle for global dissemination of respiratory viruses and for the emergence of new viruses (or virus variants) capable of greater dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Farrag
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455QA6, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maaweya E Hamed
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455QA6, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haitham M Amer
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Fahad N Almajhdi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455QA6, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.
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16
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Acquisition of respiratory viruses and presence of respiratory symptoms in French pilgrims during the 2016 Hajj: A prospective cohort study. Travel Med Infect Dis 2019; 30:32-38. [PMID: 30858034 PMCID: PMC7110710 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Viral respiratory tract infections are frequent among Hajj pilgrims. However, it is still not known whether viruses are responsible for the symptoms observed in sick pilgrims or whether they only colonize sick and asymptomatic pilgrims. PATIENTS AND METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted among French Hajj pilgrims in 2016. Medical follow-up and systematic nasal swabbing were performed pre- and post-Hajj. Additional samples were obtained per-Hajj, at symptom onset in ill pilgrims. Viruses were identified using the BioFire FilmArray® Respiratory multiplex qualitative PCR panel. RESULTS 109 pilgrims were included. 83.5% presented respiratory symptoms during Hajj and 39.5% were still symptomatic on return. 5.5% of pre-Hajj, 95.2% of per-Hajj (at symptom onset) and 46.5% of post-Hajj samples tested positive (p < 0.0001). Acquisition rates of rhinovirus/enterovirus, coronavirus 229E and influenza A virus were respectively 38.6%, 19.8% and 2.0%. Although rhinovirus/enterovirus, coronavirus 229E and influenza A clearance were respectively 70.6%, 71.4% and 100% on return, overall virus carriage proportion on return was 75.0% in pilgrims with influenza-like illness and 44.0% in those who have never experienced this symptoms or resolved it (OR = 4.05, 95% CI [1.02-16.02]). CONCLUSIONS Viruses likely play some role in the pathogenesis of the respiratory tract infections at the Hajj. Point of care-rapid multiplex PCR assays are valuable diagnosis tools in this context when used at respiratory symptom onset or soon after.
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17
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Hashem AM, Al-Subhi TL, Badroon NA, Hassan AM, Bajrai LHM, Banassir TM, Alquthami KM, Azhar EI. MERS-CoV, influenza and other respiratory viruses among symptomatic pilgrims during 2014 Hajj season. J Med Virol 2019; 91:911-917. [PMID: 30729547 PMCID: PMC7166944 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.25424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
More than two million Muslims visit Makkah, Saudi Arabia, annually to perform the religious rituals of Hajj where the risk of spreading respiratory infections is very common. The aim here was to screen symptomatic pilgrims for Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and other viral etiologies. Thus, 132 nasopharyngeal samples were collected from pilgrims presenting with acute respiratory symptoms at the healthcare facilities in the holy sites during the 5 days of the 2014 Hajj season. Samples were tested using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions and microarray. Demographic data including age, sex, and country of origin were obtained for all participants. While we did not detect MERS-CoV in any of the samples, several other viruses were detected in 50.8% of the cases. Among the detected viruses, 64.2% of the cases were due to a single-virus infection and 35.8% were due to the coinfections with up to four viruses. The most common respiratory virus was influenza A, followed by non-MERS human coronaviruses, rhinoviruses, and influenza B. Together, we found that it was not MERS-CoV but other respiratory viruses that caused acute respiratory symptoms among pilgrims. The observed high prevalence of influenza viruses underscores the need for more effective surveillance during the Hajj and adoption of stringent vaccination requirements from all pilgrims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar M Hashem
- Special Infectious Agent Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tagreed L Al-Subhi
- Special Infectious Agent Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nassrin A Badroon
- Special Infectious Agent Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed M Hassan
- Special Infectious Agent Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Leena Hussein M Bajrai
- Special Infectious Agent Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Esam I Azhar
- Special Infectious Agent Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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18
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MERS: Progress on the global response, remaining challenges and the way forward. Antiviral Res 2018; 159:35-44. [PMID: 30236531 PMCID: PMC7113883 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This article summarizes progress in research on Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) since a FAO-OIE-WHO Global Technical Meeting held at WHO Headquarters in Geneva on 25-27 September 2017. The meeting reviewed the latest scientific findings and identified and prioritized the global activities necessary to prevent, manage and control the disease. Critical needs for research and technical guidance identified during the meeting have been used to update the WHO R&D MERS-CoV Roadmap for diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines and a broader public health research agenda. Since the 2017 meeting, progress has been made on several key actions in animal populations, at the animal/human interface and in human populations. This report also summarizes the latest scientific studies on MERS since 2017, including data from more than 50 research studies examining the presence of MERS-CoV infection in dromedary camels.
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19
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Abstract
Purpose of Review Mass gatherings (MGs) are characterized by a high concentration of people at a specific time and location. Infectious diseases are of particular concern at MGs. The aim of this review was to summarize findings in the field of infectious diseases with a variety of pathogens associated with international MGs in the last 5 years. Recent Findings In the context of Hajj, one of the largest religious MGs at Mecca, Saudi Arabia, respiratory tract infections are the leading cause of infectious diseases in pilgrims with a prevalence of 50–93%. The most commonly acquired respiratory viruses were human rhinovirus, followed by human coronaviruses and influenza A virus, in decreasing order. Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae were the predominant bacteria. The prevalence of Hajj-related diarrhea ranged from 1.1 to 23.3% and etiologies included Salmonella spp., and Escherichia coli, with evidence of acquisition of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. In other MGs such as Muslim, Christian, and Hindu religious events, sports events, and large-scale open-air festivals, outbreaks have been reported less frequently. The most common outbreaks at these events involved diseases preventable by vaccination, notably measles and influenza. Gastrointestinal infections caused by a variety of pathogens were also recorded. Summary Because social distancing and contact avoidance are difficult measures to implement in the context of many MGs, individual preventive measures including vaccination, use of face mask, disposable handkerchief and hand hygiene may be recommended. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of these measures has been poorly investigated in the context of MGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van-Thuan Hoang
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Aix Marseille University, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385, Marseille Cedex 05, France.,Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Thai Binh, Vietnam
| | - Philippe Gautret
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Aix Marseille University, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385, Marseille Cedex 05, France.
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Al-Tawfiq JA, Benkouiten S, Memish ZA. A systematic review of emerging respiratory viruses at the Hajj and possible coinfection with Streptococcus pneumoniae. Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 23:6-13. [PMID: 29673810 PMCID: PMC7110954 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background The annual Hajj to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia attracts millions of pilgrims from around the world. International health community's attention goes towards this mass gathering and the possibility of the development of any respiratory tract infections due to the high risk of acquisition of respiratory viruses. Method We searched MEDLINE/PubMed and Scopus databases for relevant papers describing the prevalence of respiratory viruses among Hajj pilgrims. Results The retrieved articles were summarized based on the methodology of testing for these viruses. A total of 31 studies were included in the quantitative/qualitative analyses. The main methods used for the diagnosis of most common respiratory viruses were polymerase chain reaction (PCR), culture and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Influenza, rhinovirus and parainfluenza were the most common viruses detected among pilgrims. Coronaviruses other than MERS-CoV were also detected among pilgrims. The acquisition of MERS-CoV remains very limited and systematic screening of pilgrims showed no infections. Conclusions Well conducted multinational follow-up studies using the same methodology of testing are necessary for accurate surveillance of respiratory viral infections among Hajj pilgrims. Post-Hajj cohort studies would further evaluate the impact of the Hajj on the acquisition of respiratory viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaffar A Al-Tawfiq
- Specialty Internal Medicine Unit, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia; Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Samir Benkouiten
- Aix Marseille Université, URMITE, UM63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198, Inserm 1095, 13005 Marseille, France; Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Ziad A Memish
- Department of Medicine and Research, Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Hospital, Ministry of Health, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.
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