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Ahmed AK, Sijercic VC, Akhtar MS, Elbayomy A, Marouf MA, Zeleke MS, Sayad R, Abdelshafi A, Laird NJ, El‐Mokhtar MA, Ruthig GR, Hetta HF. Cholera rages in Africa and the Middle East: A narrative review on challenges and solutions. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e2013. [PMID: 38742091 PMCID: PMC11089255 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Cholera is a life-threatening infectious disease that is still one of the most common acute watery diarrheal diseases in the world today. Acute diarrhea and severe dehydration brought on by cholera can cause hypovolemic shock, which can be fatal in minutes. Without competent clinical therapy, the rate of case fatality surpasses 50%. The purpose of this review was to highlight cholera challenges in Africa and the Middle East and explain the reasons for why this region is currently a fertile environment for cholera. We investigated cholera serology, epidemiology, and the geographical distribution of cholera in Africa and the Middle East in 2022 and 2023. We reviewed detection methods, such as rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), and treatments, such as antibiotics and phage therapy. Finally, this review explored oral cholera vaccines (OCVs), and the vaccine shortage crisis. Methods We carried out a systematic search in multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, MEDLINE, and Embase, for studies on cholera using the following keywords: ((Cholera) OR (Vibrio cholera) and (Coronavirus) OR (COVID-19) OR (SARS-CoV2) OR (The Middle East) OR (Africa)). Results and Conclusions Cholera outbreaks have increased dramatically, mainly in Africa and many Middle Eastern countries. The COVID-19 pandemic has reduced the attention devoted to cholera and disrupted diagnosis and treatment services, as well as vaccination initiatives. Most of the cholera cases in Africa and the Middle East were reported in Malawi and Syria, respectively, in 2022. RDTs are effective in the early detection of cholera epidemics, especially with limited advanced resources, which is the case in much of Africa. By offering both direct and indirect protection, expanding the use of OCV will significantly reduce the burden of current cholera outbreaks in Africa and the Middle East.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ahmed Elbayomy
- Faculty of MedicineMansoura UniversityMansouraEgypt
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Wisconsin−MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Mohamed A. Marouf
- Faculty of MedicineMansoura UniversityMansouraEgypt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of MedicineUniversity of South FloridaTampaFloridaUSA
| | - Mahlet S. Zeleke
- Menelik II Medical and Health Science CollegeKotebe Metropolitan UniversityAddis AbabaEthiopia
| | - Reem Sayad
- Faculty of MedicineAssiut UniversityAssiutEgypt
| | | | | | - Mohamed A. El‐Mokhtar
- Gilbert & Rose‐Marie Chagoury School of MedicineLebanese American UniversityByblosLebanon
| | | | - Helal F. Hetta
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of TabukTabukSaudi Arabia
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Orish VN, Asumbono MA, Addei IB, Ayaaba MA, Kwadzokpui PK, Marinkovic A, Prakash S, Okorie C, Izurieta R, Pandit R, Sanyaolu A. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice towards Prevention of Intestinal Helminth Infection among Residents of the Ho Municipality in the Volta Region of Ghana. J Parasitol Res 2023; 2023:5515603. [PMID: 38107429 PMCID: PMC10725316 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5515603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study investigated the knowledge, attitude, and practices of residents in the Ho municipality towards intestinal helminth infections and their prevention. Method A descriptive cross-sectional study involving questionnaire administration was conducted among randomly sampled residents of the Ho municipality of the Volta Region of Ghana. A minimum sample size of 400 was calculated for subjects using Yamane's formula for population. Pearson's chi-square analysis was done to determine any relationship between sociodemographic characteristics and the categories of knowledge, attitude, and practices. Results from data analysis were computed as frequencies and percentages. P < 0.05 is considered statistically significant. Results Of the 400 participants, 343 (85.7%) were aware of intestinal helminths, but the majority had poor knowledge of its cause despite 50.5% (202) having good knowledge scores. Most participants (331, 82.8%) had a bad attitude toward preventing the disease. Most (335, 83.8%) of the community members still adhered to the poor practice of open defecation with the excuse of unavailable latrines, and some (143, 35.8%) believe that intestinal helminths are nothing to worry about. Conclusion Health education should address the perceptions towards preventing intestinal helminthiasis and be complemented by making available public lavatories in the municipality to curb the unacceptable practice of open defecation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verner N. Orish
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Moses A. Asumbono
- School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Isaac B. Addei
- School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Moses A. Ayaaba
- School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Precious K. Kwadzokpui
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
- Laboratory Department, Ho Teaching Hospital, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | | | | | - Chuku Okorie
- Union County College (Plainfield Campus), Plainfield, NJ, USA
| | - Ricardo Izurieta
- Global Communicable Diseases, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Universidad de las Américas, Ecuador
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Adimulam T, Arumugam T, Naidoo A, Naidoo K, Ramsuran V. Polymorphisms within the SARS-CoV-2 Human Receptor Genes Associate with Variable Disease Outcomes across Ethnicities. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1798. [PMID: 37761938 PMCID: PMC10531089 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091798] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The contribution of human genes to the variability of disease outcomes has been shown to be important across infectious diseases. Studies have shown mutations within specific human genes are associated with variable COVID-19 outcomes. We focused on the SARS-CoV-2 receptors/co-receptors to identify the role of specific polymorphisms within ACE2, TMPRSS2, NRP1 and CD147. Polymorphisms within ACE2 (rs2285666), TMPRSS2 (rs12329760), CD147 (rs8259) and NRP1 (rs10080) have been shown to associate with COVID-19 severity. Using cryopreserved samples from COVID-19-positive African, European and South Asian individuals within South Africa, we determined genotype frequencies. The genetic variant rs2285666 was associated with COVID-19 severity with an ethnic bias. African individuals with a CC genotype demonstrate more severe COVID-19 outcomes (OR = 7.5; 95% CI 1.164-80.89; p = 0.024) compared with those with a TT genotype. The expressions of ACE2 and SARS-CoV-2 viral load were measured using droplet digital PCR. Our results demonstrate rs2285666 and rs10080 were significantly associated with increased SARS-CoV-2 viral load and worse outcomes in certain ethnicities. This study demonstrates two important findings. Firstly, SARS-CoV-2 viral load is significantly lower in Africans compared with individuals of European and South Asian descent (p = 0.0002 and p < 0.0001). Secondly, SARS-CoV-2 viral load associates with specific SARS-CoV-2 receptor variants. A limited number of studies have examined the receptor/co-receptor genes within Africa. This study investigated genetic variants within the SARS-CoV-2 receptor/co-receptor genes and their association with COVID-19 severity and SARS-CoV-2 viral load across different ethnicities. We provide a genetic basis for differences in COVID-19 severity across ethnic groups in South Africa, further highlighting the importance of further investigation to determine potential therapeutic targets and to guide vaccination strategies that may prioritize specific genotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theolan Adimulam
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa; (T.A.); (T.A.)
| | - Thilona Arumugam
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa; (T.A.); (T.A.)
| | - Anushka Naidoo
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa; (A.N.); (K.N.)
| | - Kogieleum Naidoo
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa; (A.N.); (K.N.)
- South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), Durban 4013, South Africa
| | - Veron Ramsuran
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa; (T.A.); (T.A.)
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa; (A.N.); (K.N.)
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Ma J, Zhang L, Li X, Shen J, Sun Y, Huang Y. China's innovation and research contribution to combating neglected diseases: a secondary analysis of China's public research data. Glob Health Res Policy 2023; 8:6. [PMID: 36915177 PMCID: PMC10010952 DOI: 10.1186/s41256-023-00288-0] [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: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many emerging and developing economies, such as China, have played the important roles in combating global neglected diseases (NDs). This study aims to explore China's public landscape of research projects and funding of NDs and to provide empirical evidence on promoting China's participation in addressing global health priorities that disproportionately affect developing countries. METHODS We systematically sourced China's public funding information from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and provincial science and technology agency websites up to August 16, 2019. Following the G-FINDER R&D scope, we screened projects of NDs for analysis. National-funded projects were reviewed on an annual basis for exploring the trends and distribution of funding flows. Information on provincial-funded projects was compared with national projects by disease, research type, and geographical distribution. RESULTS A total of 1266 projects were included for analysis and categorized by year, funding source, recipient, disease, research type, region, and province. China's national public funding for ND research reached a historical peak of USD 16.22 million in 2018. But the proportion of ND research to all public-funded projects was less than 0.5%, and over half of the ND projects were allocated to "the big three," i.e., tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and malaria. About 58% of national and provincial ND projects focus on basic research. Economically developed regions and municipalities play dominant roles in leading national ND research, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangdong. Provincial ND projects are primarily driven by endemic regions. CONCLUSIONS As a new emerging high-tech innovator, China has gradually increased public input to ND-related innovation and research. But there is still a large funding gap among NDs that requires China's increased support and participation. National development plans and cooperative health needs should be taken into account for China's participation in promoting global research and development (R&D) for combating NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyan Ma
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lanchao Zhang
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xianzhe Li
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiashu Shen
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yinuo Sun
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yangmu Huang
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Anderson RM, Cano J, Hollingsworth TD, Deribe-Kassaye K, Zouré HGM, Kello AB, Impouma B, Kalu AA, Appleby L, Yard E, Salasibew M, McRae-McKee K, Vegvari C. Responding to the cuts in UK AID to neglected tropical diseases control programmes in Africa. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2023; 117:237-239. [PMID: 36416069 PMCID: PMC9977241 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trac109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The early termination of the Accelerating the Sustainable Control and Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (Ascend) programme by the UK government in June 2021 was a bitter blow to countries in East and West Africa where no alternative source of funding existed. Here we assess the potential impact the cuts may have had if alternative funding had not been made available by new development partners and outline new strategies developed by affected countries to mitigate current and future disruptions to neglected tropical disease control programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy M Anderson
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, UK
- Oriole Global Health, London, UK
| | - Jorge Cano
- Expanded Special Project for Elimination of NTDs, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
| | - T Déirdre Hollingsworth
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Honorat G M Zouré
- Expanded Special Project for Elimination of NTDs, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
| | - Amir B Kello
- Expanded Special Project for Elimination of NTDs, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
| | - Benido Impouma
- Communicable and Non-communicable Disease Cluster, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
| | - Akpaka A Kalu
- Tropical and vector-borne diseases, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
| | | | | | | | | | - Carolin Vegvari
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, UK
- Oriole Global Health, London, UK
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A retrospective analysis of schistosomiasis related literature from 2011-2020: Focusing on the next decade. Acta Trop 2023; 238:106750. [PMID: 36372254 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis, an ancient and neglected tropical disease, which poses a huge threat to over 200 million people globally. It is necessary to have a general summary of schistosomiasis research after the new roadmap 2021-2030 issued by WHO. This study analyzes the current status of schistosomiasis research from the perspective of the One Health concept by analyzing important research literature published from 2011 to 2020, while further highlighting research priorities, difficulties, and research directions in order to propose suggestions for tropical disease studies research. METHODS Published literature related to schistosomiasis was searched from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Focusing on a visual analysis of the main research literature in the field of schistosomiasis, CiteSpace software was used to conduct co-occurrence analysis with keywords, countries, institutions, and authors. Moreover, clustering and burst analyses of keywords and co-citation analysis of authors, publications, and journals were performed. RESULTS A total of 6638 schistosomiasis-related articles were published from 2011 to 2020, all of which can be sourced from the WoSCC database. The publication of schistosomiasis research has remained stable over the past 10 years, and contains studies in the area of human epidemiology, animal surveillance and the environment. The top five high-frequency keywords included Schistosoma mansoni, schistosomiasis, infection, praziquantel, and Schistosoma japonicum. The keywords formed nine clusters, including praziquantel, epidemiology, Schistosoma japonicum, helminths, protein, diagnosis, schistosomiasis, response, and haematobium. In recent years, most research studies focused on the mechanism of liver fibrosis, eliminating schistosomiasis, controlling risk factors, and the relationship between schistosomiasis infection and host immunity. The most productive countries include the United States, China, and Brazil, and the most productive institutions are the University of Basel, the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, and the University of São Paulo. Highly productive authors include Jürg Utzinger and Donald P. McManus. At the time of writing, the author with the highest co-citation frequency (993 times) was Peter Hotez, and the journal with the highest co-citation frequency (3,720 times) was PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases. Human schistosomiasis, published by Colley et al. (2014), was the most frequently co-cited publication (494 times). CONCLUSIONS This study provides a preliminary description of the current status of schistosomiasis research and an initial exploration of future research directions. The One Health concept was applied in the field of schistosomiasis control, as confirmed by this bibliometric analysis. Our study provides guidance for the development of research on schistosomiasis and other neglected tropical diseases.
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Aborode AT, Fajemisin EA, Aiyenuro EA, Alakitan MT, Ariwoola MO, Imisioluwa JO, Rafiu R, Alexiou A. Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and COVID-19 Pandemic in Africa: Special Focus on Control Strategies. Comb Chem High Throughput Screen 2022; 25:2387-2390. [PMID: 35490317 DOI: 10.2174/1386207325666220427123349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a group of twenty (20) chronic, communicable, infectious diseases endemic to the tropics and sub-tropics climate countries, which are intimately associated with poverty, poor sanitation, limited clean water, and healthcare delivery; and dwellers live in proximity to pathogens and diseases vectors. The pathogens are protozoans, bacteria, helminths, fungi, and viruses. NTDs currently affect about one billion people globally, out of which 500 million are Africans living in rural settlements with low political voice and support. In recent years, NTDs have received little research recognition, development, and funding because more research efforts by global health stakeholders are focused on recognized diseases like cancers, hepatitis, tuberculosis, Acquired Immune-Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), and malaria that affects most developed countries. The emergence of the viral novel COVID-19 will exacerbate the burden of NTDs on disadvantaged communities as global health efforts are again focused on COVID-19 clearance in terms of research and development to find a drug/vaccine amidst other investigations on recognized infections. This development can result in high death tolls due to NTDs if control measures are not prioritized now. This perspective addresses the need for NTDs control amidst COVID-19 clearance efforts to mitigate another viral health crisis in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullahi Tunde Aborode
- Healthy Africans Platform, Research and Development, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Toufik\\\\\\\'s World Medical Association, Research and Development, Sumy, Ukraine
| | | | | | | | - Matthew Olaide Ariwoola
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States of America
| | | | - Raheemt Rafiu
- Department of Chemistry, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, USA
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- Department of Science and Engineering, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Australia and AFNP Med, Wien, Austria
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Borlase A, Le Rutte EA, Castaño S, Blok DJ, Toor J, Giardina F, Davis EL. Evaluating and mitigating the potential indirect effect of COVID-19 on control programmes for seven neglected tropical diseases: a modelling study. Lancet Glob Health 2022; 10:e1600-e1611. [PMID: 36240827 PMCID: PMC9579354 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(22)00360-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background In line with movement restrictions and physical distancing essential for the control of the COVID-19 pandemic, WHO recommended postponement of all neglected tropical disease (NTD) control activities that involve community-based surveys, active case finding, and mass drug administration in April, 2020. Following revised guidance later in 2020, and after interruptions to NTD programmes of varying lengths, NTD programmes gradually restarted in the context of an ongoing pandemic. However, ongoing challenges and service gaps have been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the potential effect of the programmatic interruptions and strategies to mitigate this effect. Methods For seven NTDs, namely soil-transmitted helminths, schistosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, trachoma, visceral leishmaniasis, and human African trypanosomiasis, we used mathematical transmission models to simulate the effect of programme interruptions on the dynamics of each of these diseases in different endemic settings. We also explored the potential benefit of implementing mitigation strategies, primarily in terms of minimising the delays to control targets. Findings We show that the effect of the COVID-19-induced interruption in terms of delay to achieving elimination goals might in some cases be much longer than the duration of the interruption. For schistosomiasis, onchocerciasis, trachoma, and visceral leishmaniasis, a mean delay of 2–3 years for a 1-year interruption is predicted in areas of highest prevalence. We also show that these delays can largely be mitigated by measures such as additional mass drug administration or enhanced case-finding. Interpretation The COVID-19 pandemic has brought infectious disease control to the forefront of global consciousness. It is essential that the NTDs, so long neglected in terms of research and financial support, are not overlooked, and remain a priority in health service planning and funding. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Medical Research Council, and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Borlase
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Epke A Le Rutte
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Soledad Castaño
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; LYO-X, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - David J Blok
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jaspreet Toor
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Federica Giardina
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands; Department of Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Emma L Davis
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Mathematics Institute, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.
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Radvan I, Aliu FO, Bettee A, Cisse A, Gbewo SZ, Olobio N, Sagno M. Resuming NTD activities in the context of COVID-19: an investigation into the advantages of risk assessment processes to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19 during NTD delivery. Int Health 2022; 14:ii7-ii19. [PMID: 36130243 PMCID: PMC9492271 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihac045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neglected tropical disease (NTD) sector is adapting to the uncertain circumstances of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The development of the Risk Assessment and Mitigation Action (RAMA) tool was driven by partners of the programme Accelerating the Sustainable Control and Elimination of NTDs (hereafter called Ascend) to enable countries to recommence NTD activities following the World Health Organization advisories of April and July 2020. This article explores the advantages of the RAMA process for NTD delivery. METHODS The analysis used interview transcripts with NTD practitioners in Cote d'Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia and Nigeria and results from the monitoring of compliance with COVID-19 mitigation measures in Nigeria. RESULTS Three themes emerged from the results: adaptability and innovation, collaboration and government ownership and preparedness. CONCLUSIONS The advantages of the RAMA tool suggest its importance in mitigating the transmission of COVID-19 during NTD delivery. There is the potential for the tool to be adapted for use throughout future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anthony Bettee
- Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Health, Monrovia, P.O. Box 10-9009, Liberia
| | | | - Sonnie Ziama Gbewo
- Health Services, Ministry of Health, Monrovia, P.O. Box 10-9009, Liberia
| | - Nicholas Olobio
- Public Health, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja 900104, Nigeria
| | - Michel Sagno
- National Program Against Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Health, Conakry, BP 585, Republic of Guinea
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10
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Hill B, Dauda N, Dabo S, Woods G. Recognising the potential of neglected tropical disease programmes as a platform for pandemic preparedness: the Ascend experience. Int Health 2022; 14:ii70-ii73. [PMID: 36130247 PMCID: PMC9492179 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihac035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Living in an increasingly interconnected world, epidemics and pandemics are increasingly likely to be a vista for the future. This, coupled with the likely devastating effects of climate change, means that humanitarian crises are likely to increase. Now, more than ever before, is the time to scale up investment in prevention and preparedness strategies, and to review our current approaches to delivering health services, including those that address neglected tropical diseases. The Ascend West and Central Africa programme has illustrated the importance of innovation, multisector partnerships, resilience and the opportunity for change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Becks Hill
- Sightsavers, 35 Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath RH16 3BW, UK
| | | | - Shehu Dabo
- Health Education, Communication, Information and Training Centre, Department of Public Health and Disease Control, Kano State Ministry of Health, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Geordie Woods
- Sightsavers, 35 Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath RH16 3BW, UK
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Downs P, Bush S, Bannerman R, Blair L, D'Souza S, Ekpo U, Gyapong M, Kar K, Kelly-Hope L, Mabey D, Mante S, Tate A, Velleman Y, Molyneux D. Neglected tropical disease elimination is a relay race - let's not drop the baton. Int Health 2022; 14:ii1-ii6. [PMID: 36130250 PMCID: PMC9492294 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihab094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Philip Downs
- NTD Technical Director, Sightsavers, 35 Perrymount Rd. Haywards Heath RH16 3BZ, UK
| | - Simon Bush
- Director, Neglected Tropical Diseases, Sightsavers, P.O Box KIA18190, Airport, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ron Bannerman
- Sightsavers, 35 Perrymount Rd, Haywards Heath RH16 3BZ
| | - Lynsey Blair
- SCI Foundation, Edinburgh House, 170 Kennington Ln, Lambeth, London SE11 5DP, UK
| | - Susan D'Souza
- Sightsavers, 35 Perrymount Rd, Haywards Heath RH16 3BZ
| | - Uwem Ekpo
- Department of Pure and Applied Zoology, Federal University of Agriculture, Alabata Road, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | | | - Kamal Kar
- CLTS Foundation, CB-88, CB Block, Sector 1, Bidhannager, Kolkata, West Bengal 700064, India
| | - Louise Kelly-Hope
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park IC2 Building, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
| | - David Mabey
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Gower St., London WCIE 7HT, UK
| | - Sunny Mante
- African Filariasis Morbidity Project, P.O BOX KB-282, Korle-Bu, Accra Ghana
| | - Andrew Tate
- Sightsavers, 35 Perrymount Rd, Haywards Heath RH16 3BZ
| | - Yael Velleman
- SCI Foundation, Edinburgh House, 170 Kennington Ln, Lambeth, London SE11 5DP, UK
| | - David Molyneux
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, L3 QA, UK
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12
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Sweileh WM. Contribution of researchers in Arab countries to scientific publications on neglected tropical diseases (1971 - 2020). Trop Dis Travel Med Vaccines 2022; 8:14. [PMID: 35650654 PMCID: PMC9159044 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-022-00173-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are endemic in several Arab countries. The purpose of the current study was to assess the contribution of researchers in Arab countries to the knowledge base on NTDs using bibliometric indicators. METHODS Keywords related to all 20 NTDs were obtained from previously published bibliometric studies and were combined with the names of Arab countries listed as country affiliation. the search strategy was implemented in the Scopus database and bibliometric indicators were generated for the study period from 1971 to 2020 RESULTS: The search strategy generated 6542 documents; representing less than 4% of the global research in the field. Scientific research on NTDs from researchers in Arab countries (a) has experienced slow growth; (b) generated a relatively inadequate number of publications over the study period; (c) was disseminated mainly through journals in the field of parasitology or tropical medicine; (d) was contributed by researchers from the 22 Arab countries, but mainly by researchers from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Sudan; (e) has fragmented author networks with weak collaboration between active authors in the field; (f) was characterized by strong cross-country research collaboration with researchers in the US and the UK; (g) has focused on three main diseases, specifically, schistosomiasis, leishmaniasis, and onchocerciasis, and (h) showed less emphasis on soil-transmitted helminthiasis infections despite high prevalence. CONCLUSIONS Arab countries cannot achieve the 2030 global agenda without control and elimination of prevalent NTDs. Researchers in Arab countries need to establish strong research networks to exchange expertise on all NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed M Sweileh
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology/Toxicology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.
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13
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Carlson CJ, Colwell R, Hossain MS, Rahman MM, Robock A, Ryan SJ, Alam MS, Trisos CH. Solar geoengineering could redistribute malaria risk in developing countries. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2150. [PMID: 35444178 PMCID: PMC9021229 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29613-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Solar geoengineering is often framed as a stopgap measure to decrease the magnitude, impacts, and injustice of climate change. However, the benefits or costs of geoengineering for human health are largely unknown. We project how geoengineering could impact malaria risk by comparing current transmission suitability and populations-at-risk under moderate and high greenhouse gas emissions scenarios (Representative Concentration Pathways 4.5 and 8.5) with and without geoengineering. We show that if geoengineering deployment cools the tropics, it could help protect high elevation populations in eastern Africa from malaria encroachment, but could increase transmission in lowland sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia. Compared to extreme warming, we find that by 2070, geoengineering would nullify a projected reduction of nearly one billion people at risk of malaria. Our results indicate that geoengineering strategies designed to offset warming are not guaranteed to unilaterally improve health outcomes, and could produce regional trade-offs among Global South countries that are often excluded from geoengineering conversations. Solar geoengineering, an emergency climate intervention, could shift one billion people back into areas of malaria risk. Regional tradeoffs and potential adverse outcomes point to the need for health sector planning with Global South leadership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin J Carlson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA. .,Center for Global Health Science and Security, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
| | - Rita Colwell
- University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Mohammad Sharif Hossain
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammed Mofizur Rahman
- Institute for Technology and Resources Management in the Tropics and Subtropics, Cologne University of Applied Sciences, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alan Robock
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Sadie J Ryan
- Quantitative Disease Ecology and Conservation (QDEC) Lab Group, Department of Geography, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.,Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.,School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4041, South Africa
| | - Mohammad Shafiul Alam
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Christopher H Trisos
- African Climate and Development Initiative, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa. .,Centre for Statistics in Ecology, the Environment and Conservation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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14
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Al-Saidi M, Saad SAG, Elagib NA. From scenario to mounting risks: COVID-19's perils for development and supply security in the Sahel. ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY 2022; 25:6295-6318. [PMID: 35431620 PMCID: PMC8988911 DOI: 10.1007/s10668-022-02303-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The African Sahel countries are inherently fragile, environmentally insecure and economically weak. This paper underscores the compounded impacts brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic on resource supply security and, hence, the long-term development of the region. It outlines the Sahel-specific COVID-19 scenario by firstly highlighting the underlying vulnerabilities and later linking the health sector outcomes to increased political instability and environmental insecurity, particularly the deterioration of food security. In this sense, this paper shows from a region-wide perspective how COVID-19 in the Sahel is associated with enlarged sociopolitical developmental perils. Lower remittance sent by expatriates, violent conflicts, increased cross-border terrorism and migration, discriminant mobility restrictions of people and goods, weak national healthcare infrastructures, bottlenecks in international aid, pressures on the education system and recent climate extremes are some revealing examples of aggravators of the impacts on the supply of vital resources, such as food. This paper also shows the importance of considering the close interlinks between health, food and political stability in the Sahel. There is a paramount need for more comprehensive approaches linking human health to other sectors, and for re-considering local sustainable agriculture. To avoid prolonged or recurrent humanitarian crises, the Sahel countries need to strengthen response capacities through public sector-led responses. Examples of these responses include reinforced national disaster programs for the vulnerable, support to sustainable agriculture and food markets, improved performance and communication of public sector relief, state-based cooperation, building of regional alliances and peacemaking efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Al-Saidi
- Policy, Planning and Development Program, Center for Sustainable Development & Department of International Affairs, College of Arts and Science, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Nadir Ahmed Elagib
- Institute of Geography, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Cologne, Albertus-Magnus-Platz, 50923 Cologne, Germany
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15
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Ahorlu CS, Okyere D, Pi-Bansa S, Otchere J, Marfo B, Asemanyi-Mensah K, Opare JL, Long EF, de Souza DK. COVID-19 related perception among some community members and frontline healthcare providers for NTD control in Ghana. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:106. [PMID: 35094689 PMCID: PMC8801039 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07084-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in a major breakdown of health service provision in the fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). COVID-19 may impact NTDs service delivery in varied ways. As the Ghana NTD programme planned to resume MDA activities, we examined the COVID-19 related perceptions and practices among some community members and frontline health workers for NTD control activities in the country. Methods The study was conducted in seven communities in the Ahanta West district of Ghana. This was a qualitative study using in-depth interviews (IDI) and focus group discussions (FGDs) for data collection. Participants were purposively selected from varied backgrounds to represent both beneficiaries and service providers directly involved in NTD programme implementation. Trained and experienced qualitative data collectors conducted the FGD and IDI sessions in the local Twi language, while health worker sessions were conducted in English. Discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed directly into English. Data was analysed using an iterative process. The transcripts were pre-coded using the broad themes, entered into a computer using Microsoft Word, and then imported into the MAXQDA software for thematic content analysis to select relevant representative narratives for presentation. Results Participants were aware of the COVID-19 pandemic and referred to it appropriately as ‘coronavirus’, COVID-19, and often as ‘the new disease’. Though many respondents could not describe the route of transmission, most of them reported that it is transmitted through touch or sharing of common items. They reported some signs/symptoms like fever, headache and difficulty breathing, and prevention methods like the use of hand sanitiser, washing of hands and sneezing appropriately. Respondents have reported that COVID-19 has negatively affected their daily lives by limiting their movements and therefore work. It also came to light that COVID-19 has also negatively affected the NTD programme implementation, especially mass drug administration (MDA) activities, leading to the postponement of the yearly MDA. The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected clinic attendance; people are afraid that they may be tested for COVID-19 at the clinic. Conclusion COVID-19 has negatively affected the NTD programme. Education and the provision of personal protective equipment will be required to build the confidence of frontline care providers including community drug distributors and community members in order to enhance quality service and participation in future MDA activities. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-022-07084-0.
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16
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Owoicho O, Abechi P, Olwal CO. Cholera in the Era of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Worrying Trend in Africa? Int J Public Health 2021; 66:1604030. [PMID: 34744594 PMCID: PMC8565262 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2021.1604030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Oloche Owoicho
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Biological Sciences, Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria.,Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Priscilla Abechi
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Redeemer's University, Ede, Nigeria
| | - Charles Ochieng' Olwal
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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17
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Marcos-Garcia P, Carmona-Moreno C, López-Puga J, Ruiz-Ruano García AM. COVID-19 pandemic in Africa: Is it time for water, sanitation and hygiene to climb up the ladder of global priorities? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 791:148252. [PMID: 34116497 PMCID: PMC8173594 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
In the current pandemic context, it is necessary to remember the lessons learned from previous outbreaks in Africa, where the incidence of other diseases could rise if most resources are directed to tackle the emergency. Improving the access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) could be a win-win strategy, because the lack of these services not only hampers the implementation of preventive measures against SARS-CoV-2 (e.g. proper handwashing), but it is also connected to high mortality diseases (for example, diarrhoea and lower respiratory infections (LRI)). This study aims to build on the evidence-based link between other LRI and WASH as a proxy for exploring the potential vulnerability of African countries to COVID-19, as well as the role of other socioeconomic variables such as financial sources or demographic factors. The selected methodology combines several machine learning techniques to single out the most representative variables for the analysis, classify the countries according to their capacity to tackle public health emergencies and identify behavioural patterns for each group. Besides, conditional dependences between variables are inferred through a Bayesian network. Results show a strong relationship between low access to WASH services and high LRI mortality rates, and that migrant remittances could significantly improve the access to healthcare and WASH services. However, the role of Official Development Assistance (ODA) in enhancing WASH facilities in the most vulnerable countries cannot be disregarded, but it is unevenly distributed: for each 50-100 US$ of ODA per capita, the probability of directing more than 3 US$ to WASH ranges between 48% (Western Africa) and 8% (Central Africa).
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Affiliation(s)
- P Marcos-Garcia
- European Commission-Joint Research Centre, via E. Fermi 2749, 21027 Ispra, VA, Italy.
| | - C Carmona-Moreno
- European Commission-Joint Research Centre, via E. Fermi 2749, 21027 Ispra, VA, Italy
| | - J López-Puga
- Universidad de Granada, Campus de Cartuja, s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
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18
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Abomo P, Miaka EM, Crossman SJ, Hope A. Demonstrating the sustainability of capacity strengthening amidst COVID-19. Int Health 2021; 13:480-481. [PMID: 33594422 PMCID: PMC7928908 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihab004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The global disruptions caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 crisis posed a threat to the momentum the vector control team at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) and the Programme National de Lutte contre la Tryaponosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA) had built in their efforts to control tsetse fly populations in the Democratic Republic of Congo. But despite the pandemic and global lockdown, field activities did continue and the same impressive results in tsetse fly reduction were observed and the team followed this by completing a round of ‘tiny target’ deployment without any external presence. Such a success was possible due to the investment in vector control capacity strengthening undertaken by the LSTM and PNLTHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Abomo
- Centre for Capacity Research, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, 2 rue paul gauguin, 78340, Les Clayes Sous Bois, France
| | - E M Miaka
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine, Avenue de la Liberation, Kinshasa, DRC, UK
| | - S J Crossman
- Centre for Capacity Research, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - A Hope
- Vector Biology Group, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
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19
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Lee JK, Bullen C, Ben Amor Y, Bush SR, Colombo F, Gaviria A, Karim SSA, Kim B, Lavis JN, Lazarus JV, Lo YC, Michie SF, Norheim OF, Oh J, Reddy KS, Rostila M, Sáenz R, Smith LDG, Thwaites JW, Were MK, Xue L. Institutional and behaviour-change interventions to support COVID-19 public health measures: a review by the Lancet Commission Task Force on public health measures to suppress the pandemic. Int Health 2021; 13:399-409. [PMID: 33974687 PMCID: PMC8136029 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihab022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The Lancet COVID-19 Commission Task Force for Public Health Measures to Suppress the Pandemic was launched to identify critical points for consideration by governments on public health interventions to control coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Drawing on our review of published studies of data analytics and modelling, evidence synthesis and contextualisation, and behavioural science evidence and theory on public health interventions from a range of sources, we outline evidence for a range of institutional measures and behaviour-change measures. We cite examples of measures adopted by a range of countries, but especially jurisdictions that have, thus far, achieved low numbers of COVID-19 deaths and limited community transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Finally, we highlight gaps in knowledge where research should be undertaken. As countries consider long-term measures, there is an opportunity to learn, improve the response and prepare for future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong-Koo Lee
- Seoul National UniversityCollege of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Chris Bullen
- School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Yanis Ben Amor
- Center for Sustainable Development, Earth Institute, Columbia University, New York, 10115, USA
| | | | | | - Alejandro Gaviria
- School of Economics, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, 111711, Colombia
| | - Salim S Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Private Bag X7, Congella, 4013, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, 10032, USA
| | - Booyuel Kim
- Department of Environmental Planning, Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- Environmental Planning Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - John N Lavis
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, 08036, Spain
| | - Yi-Chun Lo
- Taiwan Centers for Disease Control, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Susan F Michie
- UCL Centre for Behaviour Change, Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Ole F Norheim
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Postboks 7804 NO-5020, Bergen, Norway
| | - Juhwan Oh
- Seoul National UniversityCollege of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Mikael Rostila
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, 10691, Sweden
| | - Rocío Sáenz
- School of Public Health, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro Montes de Oca, San José, 11501, Costa Rica
| | - Liam D G Smith
- BehaviourWorks Australia, Monash University, Melbourne, 3800, Australia
| | - John W Thwaites
- Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, 3800, Australia
| | - Miriam K Were
- Champions of an AIDS-Free Generation in Africa, P.O. Box 63056 - 00200 Nairobi
| | - Lan Xue
- School of Public Policy and Management, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
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20
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Turner HC, Stolk WA, Solomon AW, King JD, Montresor A, Molyneux DH, Toor J. Are current preventive chemotherapy strategies for controlling and eliminating neglected tropical diseases cost-effective? BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2021-005456. [PMID: 34385158 PMCID: PMC8362715 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-005456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in many low-income and middle-income countries. Several NTDs, namely lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH) and trachoma, are predominantly controlled by preventive chemotherapy (or mass drug administration), following recommendations set by the WHO. Over one billion people are now treated for NTDs with this strategy per year. However, further investment and increased domestic healthcare spending are urgently needed to continue these programmes. Consequently, it is vital that the cost-effectiveness of preventive chemotherapy is understood. We analyse the current estimates on the cost per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) of the preventive chemotherapy strategies predominantly used for these diseases and identify key evidence gaps that require further research. Overall, the reported estimates show that preventive chemotherapy is generally cost-effective, supporting WHO recommendations. More specifically, the cost per DALY averted estimates relating to community-wide preventive chemotherapy for lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis were particularly favourable when compared with other public health interventions. Cost per DALY averted estimates of school-based preventive chemotherapy for schistosomiasis and STH were also generally favourable but more variable. Notably, the broader socioeconomic benefits are likely not being fully captured by the DALYs averted metric. No estimates of cost per DALY averted relating to community-wide mass antibiotic treatment for trachoma were found, highlighting the need for further research. These findings are important for informing global health policy and support the need for continuing NTD control and elimination efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo C Turner
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK .,Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Africa Asia Programme, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Wilma A Stolk
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anthony W Solomon
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan D King
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Antonio Montresor
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David H Molyneux
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jaspreet Toor
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK,Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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21
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Cuervo
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Leishmanioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Gabriel Padrón
- Center for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology, La Habana, Cuba.
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22
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van Oirschot J, Ooms GI, Waldmann B, Kadam P. Snakebite incidents, prevention and care during COVID-19: Global key-informant experiences. Toxicon X 2021; 9-10:100075. [PMID: 34386765 PMCID: PMC8342778 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2021.100075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming is a long-neglected disease causing significant morbidity and mortality in snakebite endemic low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Global awareness on snakebite was increasing steadily up to 2020, and an increasing number of countries began to acknowledge the issue, when coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) started to have an unprecedented impact on societies and health systems. To better understand how snakebite incidents, prevention and care are being affected during this global emergency, we collected perspectives of snakebite community- and health system stakeholders in a qualitative key-informant study. An open-ended survey and semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather information on changes in snakebite occurrence and circumstances, community responses, access to care and health outcomes in LMICs since the COVID-19 pandemic. Forty-three informants from 21 countries participated in the study. Based on informants' experiences, in spite of COVID-19 lockdowns, exposure to snakes did not change in many rural agrarian communities, where incidences are usually highest. However, we did find several access to care issues relating to avoidance of formal care, transport barriers, overburdened healthcare systems and -providers, and antivenom manufacturing and supply disruptions, which were unique per context. On a brighter note, ventilator availability had increased in several countries, although not automatically benefitting snakebite patients directly. In conclusion, we found apparent effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on snakebite prevention and care, although its severity was highly context- and time-dependent. Interactions between the pandemic effects and snakebite incidents most severely impact remote rural communities, showing the need to invest in community-based prevention and care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gaby I. Ooms
- Health Action International, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Utrecht Centre for Pharmaceutical Policy and Regulation, Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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23
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Molyneux DH, Asamoa-Bah A, Fenwick A, Savioli L, Hotez P. The history of the neglected tropical disease movement. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 115:169-175. [PMID: 33508096 PMCID: PMC7842098 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trab015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The history of the neglected tropical disease movement is seen through the lens of authors who worked during the last 4 decades in different roles and in different settings, from Western-based laboratories to clinical roles in endemic countries and in critical policy roles in the World Health Organization (WHO). The authors seek to identify key players from the introduction of the word 'neglected' by the late Kenneth Warren in his Rockefeller Foundation-supported Great Neglected Diseases of Mankind movement through to the more recent developments after the London Declaration of 2012. The role of the various actors-endemic countries, major pharmaceutical companies, the WHO, non-government development organizations, bilateral donors and academia-are discussed. The critical events and decisions are highlighted that were essential enabling factors in creating a viable and successful movement and with a resultant massive global public health and antipoverty impact. The importance of advocacy is emphasized in creating the momentum to establish a globally recognized public health 'brand' as a target in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Molyneux
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | | | - Alan Fenwick
- School of Public Health Imperial College Norfolk Place W2 1PG, UK
| | - Lorenzo Savioli
- P.O. Box 267, Chake Chake, Pemba Island, Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Peter Hotez
- National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Alswang JM, Gutierrez AL, Sadler SJ, Norheim OF. Maintaining neglected tropical disease programmes during pandemics. Bull World Health Organ 2021; 99:473-474. [PMID: 34108758 PMCID: PMC8164178 DOI: 10.2471/blt.20.269464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jared M Alswang
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115, United States of America
| | - Alexis L Gutierrez
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115, United States of America
| | - Samantha J Sadler
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115, United States of America
| | - Ole F Norheim
- Department of Global Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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25
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Ung L, Jonas JB, Lietman TM, Chodosh J. COVID-19 and the Unfinished Agenda of VISION 2020. Am J Ophthalmol 2021; 224:30-35. [PMID: 33309690 PMCID: PMC7831771 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2020.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To critically evaluate the potential impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on global ophthalmology and VISION 2020. DESIGN Perspective supplemented with epidemiologic insights from available online databases. METHODS We extracted data from the Global Vision Database (2017) and Global Burden of Disease Study (2017) to highlight temporal trends in global blindness since 1990, and provide a narrative overview of how COVID-19 may derail progress toward the goals of VISION 2020. RESULTS Over 2 decades of VISION 2020 advocacy and program implementation have culminated in a universal reduction of combined age-standardized prevalence of moderate-to-severe vision impairment (MSVI) across all world regions since 1990. Between 1990 and 2017, low-income countries observed large reductions in the age-standardized prevalence per 100,000 persons of vitamin A deficiency (25,155 to 19,187), undercorrected refractive disorders (2,286 to 2,040), cataract (1,846 to 1,690), onchocerciasis (5,577 to 2,871), trachoma (506 to 159), and leprosy (36 to 26). Despite these reductions, crude projections suggest that more than 700 million persons will experience MSVI or blindness by 2050, principally owing to our growing and ageing global population. CONCLUSIONS Despite the many resounding successes of VISION 2020, the burden of global blindness and vision impairment is set to reach historic levels in the coming years. The impact of COVID-19, while yet to be fully determined, now threatens the hard-fought gains of global ophthalmology. The postpandemic years will require renewed effort and focus on vision advocacy and expanding eye care services worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawson Ung
- Infectious Disease Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jost B. Jonas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Thomas M. Lietman
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - James Chodosh
- Infectious Disease Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Inquiries to James Chodosh, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 243 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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26
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Mencía-Ripley A, Paulino-Ramírez R, Jiménez JA, Camilo O. Decolonizing Science Diplomacy: A Case Study of the Dominican Republic's COVID-19 Response. Front Res Metr Anal 2021; 6:637187. [PMID: 33870069 PMCID: PMC8028409 DOI: 10.3389/frma.2021.637187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic forced healthcare systems globally to handle a dramatic surge in healthcare utilization while also taxing available testing resources. In the context of healthcare systems in Latin America and the Caribbean, COVID-19 added to the existing burden of infectious diseases related to endemic infections such as arboviruses and HIV. In the Dominican Republic, testing is supplied mostly by the private sector and a national public laboratory. The surge in testing demands laid bare a lack of installed capacities both in laboratory facilities and equipment and trained staff in molecular biology laboratory procedures. This article discusses a case of how science diplomacy and a relatively new law fostering public-private partnerships allowed a university to play a major role in public health response while generating knowledge to inform public policy decisions in an unprecedented manner in the country. Science diplomacy is discussed in the context of decolonization and the importance of the local gaze when creating academic partnerships in the context of global health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aída Mencía-Ripley
- Research Department, Universidad Iberoamericana, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Robert Paulino-Ramírez
- Research Department, Institute for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Universidad Iberoamericana, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Juan Ariel Jiménez
- Economics Department, Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Odile Camilo
- Office of the Academic Vice Rector, Universidad Iberoamericana, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
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27
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Hollingsworth TD, Mwinzi P, Vasconcelos A, de Vlas SJ. Evaluating the potential impact of interruptions to neglected tropical disease programmes due to COVID-19. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 115:201-204. [PMID: 33693894 PMCID: PMC7946803 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trab023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T Déirdre Hollingsworth
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK
| | - Pauline Mwinzi
- Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (ESPEN), World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, P.O.BOX 06 Cité du Djoué Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Andreia Vasconcelos
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK
| | - Sake J de Vlas
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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28
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Borlase A, Blumberg S, Callahan EK, Deiner MS, Nash SD, Porco TC, Solomon AW, Lietman TM, Prada JM, Hollingsworth TD. Modelling trachoma post-2020: opportunities for mitigating the impact of COVID-19 and accelerating progress towards elimination. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 115:213-221. [PMID: 33596317 PMCID: PMC7928577 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/traa171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted planned annual antibiotic mass drug administration (MDA) activities that have formed the cornerstone of the largely successful global efforts to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem. METHODS Using a mathematical model we investigate the impact of interruption to MDA in trachoma-endemic settings. We evaluate potential measures to mitigate this impact and consider alternative strategies for accelerating progress in those areas where the trachoma elimination targets may not be achievable otherwise. RESULTS We demonstrate that for districts that were hyperendemic at baseline, or where the trachoma elimination thresholds have not already been achieved after three rounds of MDA, the interruption to planned MDA could lead to a delay to reaching elimination targets greater than the duration of interruption. We also show that an additional round of MDA in the year following MDA resumption could effectively mitigate this delay. For districts where the probability of elimination under annual MDA was already very low, we demonstrate that more intensive MDA schedules are needed to achieve agreed targets. CONCLUSION Through appropriate use of additional MDA, the impact of COVID-19 in terms of delay to reaching trachoma elimination targets can be effectively mitigated. Additionally, more frequent MDA may accelerate progress towards 2030 goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Borlase
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - E Kelly Callahan
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Scott D Nash
- Trachoma Control Program, The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Anthony W Solomon
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Joaquin M Prada
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, UK
| | - T Dèirdre Hollingsworth
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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29
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Hamley JID, Blok DJ, Walker M, Milton P, Hopkins AD, Hamill LC, Downs P, de Vlas SJ, Stolk WA, Basáñez MG. What does the COVID-19 pandemic mean for the next decade of onchocerciasis control and elimination? Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 115:269-280. [PMID: 33515042 PMCID: PMC7928565 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/traa193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mass drug administration (MDA) of ivermectin for onchocerciasis has been disrupted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Mathematical modelling can help predict how missed/delayed MDA will affect short-term epidemiological trends and elimination prospects by 2030. METHODS Two onchocerciasis transmission models (EPIONCHO-IBM and ONCHOSIM) are used to simulate microfilarial prevalence trends, elimination probabilities and age profiles of Onchocerca volvulus microfilarial prevalence and intensity for different treatment histories and transmission settings, assuming no interruption, a 1-y (2020) interruption or a 2-y (2020-2021) interruption. Biannual MDA or increased coverage upon MDA resumption are investigated as remedial strategies. RESULTS Programmes with shorter MDA histories and settings with high pre-intervention endemicity will be the most affected. Biannual MDA is more effective than increasing coverage for mitigating COVID-19's impact on MDA. Programmes that had already switched to biannual MDA should be minimally affected. In high-transmission settings with short treatment history, a 2-y interruption could lead to increased microfilarial load in children (EPIONCHO-IBM) and adults (ONCHOSIM). CONCLUSIONS Programmes with shorter (annual MDA) treatment histories should be prioritised for remedial biannual MDA. Increases in microfilarial load could have short- and long-term morbidity and mortality repercussions. These results can guide decision-making to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on onchocerciasis elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan I D Hamley
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine (St Mary's campus), Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK.,MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine (St Mary's campus), Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - David J Blok
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin Walker
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine (St Mary's campus), Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK.,London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNTDR), Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Philip Milton
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine (St Mary's campus), Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK.,MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine (St Mary's campus), Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Adrian D Hopkins
- Neglected and Disabling Diseases of Poverty Consultant, Kent, UK
| | - Louise C Hamill
- Sightsavers, 35 Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath, RH16 3BW, UK
| | - Philip Downs
- Sightsavers, 35 Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath, RH16 3BW, UK
| | - Sake J de Vlas
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wilma A Stolk
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria-Gloria Basáñez
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine (St Mary's campus), Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK.,MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine (St Mary's campus), Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK
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30
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You H, Jones MK, Whitworth DJ, McManus DP. Innovations and Advances in Schistosome Stem Cell Research. Front Immunol 2021; 12:599014. [PMID: 33746946 PMCID: PMC7973109 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.599014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomes infect about 250 million people globally causing the devastating and persistent disease of schistosomiasis. These blood flukes have a complicated life cycle involving alternating infection of freshwater snail intermediate and definitive mammalian hosts. To survive and flourish in these diverse environments, schistosomes transition through a number of distinct life-cycle stages as a result of which they change their body plan in order to quickly adapt to each new environment. Current research suggests that stem cells, present in adults and larvae, are key in aiding schistosomes to facilitate these changes. Given the recent advances in our understanding of schistosome stem cell biology, we review the key roles that two major classes of cells play in the different life cycle stages during intramolluscan and intramammalian development; these include the germinal cells of sporocysts involved in asexual reproduction in molluscan hosts and the neoblasts of adult worms involved in sexual reproduction in human and other mammalian hosts. These studies shed considerable new light in revealing the stem cell heterogeneity driving the propagation of the schistosome life cycle. We also consider the possibility and value of establishing stem cell lines in schistosomes to advance schistosomiasis research. The availability of such self-renewable resources will provide new platforms to study stem cell behavior and regulation, and to address fundamental aspects of schistosome biology, reproductive development and survival. In turn, such studies will create new avenues to unravel individual gene function and to optimize genome-editing processes in blood flukes, which may lead to the design of novel intervention strategies for schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong You
- Department of Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Malcolm K Jones
- Department of Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Deanne J Whitworth
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Donald P McManus
- Department of Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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31
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What Will Happen to Biomedical Research in Low-and-Middle Income Countries in the PostCOVID-19 World? CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2021; 8:1-5. [PMID: 33425655 PMCID: PMC7781421 DOI: 10.1007/s40475-020-00223-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Scientific research is essential for a nation’s development and is vital for generating solutions to population’s health. Individual country’s capacities to prevent and respond to public health issues, including health crises, is built with long-term investment in highly qualified professionals, infrastructure, and uninterrupted operating funding. Most Latin American countries, especially those at the bottom of the human development list, have limited capacity even though they are hot spots for tropical and other emerging infectious diseases. This weakness deepens these countries’ dependence on nations with higher development and corresponding scientific capacity. The current COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on the health of the world’s population and the global economy. Countries that lagged behind prior to the pandemic now face a myriad of additional challenges. On a more optimistic note, the pandemic could serve as a wake-up call for governments and funding agencies to strengthen scientific capacity around the world, so that we are better prepared to address the public health issues caused by current and prevalent diseases and by future diseases of pandemic potential.
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32
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Krentel A, Gyapong M, McFarland DA, Ogundahunsi O, Titaley CR, Addiss DG. Keeping communities at the centre of efforts to eliminate lymphatic filariasis: learning from the past to reach a future free of lymphatic filariasis. Int Health 2021; 13:S55-S59. [PMID: 33349882 PMCID: PMC7753171 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihaa086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the launch of the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) in 2000, more than 910 million people have received preventive chemotherapy for lymphatic filariasis (LF) and many thousands have received care for chronic manifestations of the disease. To achieve this, millions of community drug distributors (CDDs), community members and health personnel have worked together each year to ensure that at-risk communities receive preventive chemotherapy through mass drug administration (MDA). The successes of 20 y of partnership with communities is celebrated, including the application of community-directed treatment, the use of CDDs and integration with other platforms to improve community access to healthcare. Important challenges facing the GPELF moving forward towards 2030 relate to global demographic, financing and programmatic changes. New innovations in research and practice present opportunities to encourage further community partnership to achieve the elimination of LF as a public health problem. We stress the critical need for community ownership in the current Covid-19 pandemic, to counter concerns in relaunching MDA programmes for LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Krentel
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Canada K1G 5Z3.,Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa K1R 6M1, Canada
| | - Margaret Gyapong
- Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | | | | | - Christiana R Titaley
- Faculty of Medicine, Pattimura University, Maluku Province, Ambon 97233 Indonesia
| | - David G Addiss
- Focus Area for Compassion and Ethics (FACE), The Task Force for Global Health, Atlanta 30030 USA
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33
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Molyneux D, Bush S, Bannerman R, Downs P, Shu'aibu J, Boko-Collins P, Radvan I, Wohlgemuth L, Boyton C. Neglected tropical diseases activities in Africa in the COVID-19 era: the need for a "hybrid" approach in COVID-endemic times. Infect Dis Poverty 2021; 10:1. [PMID: 33397494 PMCID: PMC7779653 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-020-00791-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
With the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic showing no signs of abating, resuming neglected tropical disease (NTD) activities, particularly mass drug administration (MDA), is vital. Failure to resume activities will not only enhance the risk of NTD transmission, but will fail to leverage behaviour change messaging on the importance of hand and face washing and improved sanitation-a common strategy for several NTDs that also reduces the risk of COVID-19 spread. This so-called "hybrid approach" will demonstrate best practices for mitigating the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by incorporating physical distancing, use of masks, and frequent hand-washing in the delivery of medicines to endemic communities and support action against the transmission of the virus through water, sanitation and hygiene interventions promoted by NTD programmes. Unless MDA and morbidity management activities resume, achievement of NTD targets as projected in the WHO/NTD Roadmap (2021-2030) will be deferred, the aspirational goal of NTD programmes to enhance universal health coverage jeopardised and the call to 'leave no one behind' a hollow one. We outline what implementing this hybrid approach, which aims to strengthen health systems, and facilitate integration and cross-sector collaboration, can achieve based on work undertaken in several African countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Molyneux
- Department of Tropical Diseases Biology, Centre for Neglected Tropical Diseases, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
| | - Simon Bush
- Neglected Tropical Diseases, Sightsavers, Airport, P O Box KIA18190, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ron Bannerman
- Neglected Tropical Diseases (Ascend West and Central Africa), Sightsavers, 35 Perrymount Rd, Haywards Heath, RH16 3BZ, UK
| | - Philip Downs
- Neglected Tropical Diseases, Sightsavers, 23 Beverly Dr., Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Joy Shu'aibu
- Programme Operations, Sightsavers, Nigeria Country Office-No 1 Golf Course Road, P.O. Box 503, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | - Pelagie Boko-Collins
- Neglected Tropical Diseases, Sightsavers, Benin Country Office-3rd Floor of the Riveria Golf Building, Akpakpa, Lot 4002 F, Old Bridge, Republic of Benin
| | - Ioasia Radvan
- Neglected Tropical Diseases, Sightsavers, 35, Perrymount Rd, Haywards Heath, RH16 3BZ, UK
| | - Leah Wohlgemuth
- Neglected Tropical Diseases, Sightsavers, 35, Perrymount Rd, Haywards Heath, RH16 3BZ, UK
| | - Chris Boyton
- M&C Saatchi World Services, 36 Golden Square, London, W 9EE, UK
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Ehrenberg JP, Utzinger J, Fontes G, da Rocha EMM, Ehrenberg N, Zhou XN, Steinmann P. Efforts to mitigate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic: potential entry points for neglected tropical diseases. Infect Dis Poverty 2021; 10:2. [PMID: 33397510 PMCID: PMC7780077 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-020-00790-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The damage inflicted by the coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic upon humanity is and will continue to be considerable. Unprecedented progress made in global health over the past 20 years has reverted and economic growth has already evaporated, giving rise to a global recession, the likes of which we may not have experienced since the Second World War. Our aim is to draw the attention of the neglected tropical disease (NTD) community towards some of the major emerging economic opportunities which are quickly appearing on the horizon as a result of COVID-19. MAIN TEXT This scoping review relied on a literature search comprised of a sample of articles, statements, and press releases on initiatives aimed at mitigating the impact of COVID-19, while supporting economic recovery. Of note, the donor scenario and economic development agendas are highly dynamic and expected to change rapidly as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds, as are donor and lender priorities. CONCLUSIONS The NTD community, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), will need to work quickly, diligently, and in close collaboration with decision-makers and key stakeholders, across sectors at national and international level to secure its position. Doing so might enhance the odds of grasping potential opportunities to access some of the massive resources that are now available in the form of contributions from corporate foundations, trust funds, loans, debt relieve schemes, and other financial mechanisms, as part of the ongoing and future economic development agendas and public health priorities driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper should serve as a starting point for the NTD community to seek much needed financial support in order to sustain and revitalize control and elimination efforts pertaining to NTDs in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- John P Ehrenberg
- , Avenida Cedro 9, # 303, Cholul, Merida, Yucatan, Mexico.
- Retired from World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, The Philippines.
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gilberto Fontes
- Federal University of São João del Rei, Central-West Campus, Divinopolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention & Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research-Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Peter Steinmann
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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35
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Williams T, Taylor R, Iwamoto M, Hida T, Gusovsky F. The role of medicine donations in the global programme for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis. Int Health 2020; 13:S39-S43. [PMID: 33349878 PMCID: PMC7753159 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihaa077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
World Health Assembly Resolution 50.29, adopted in 1997, committed the World Health Organization (WHO) and its member states to eliminate lymphatic filariasis (LF) as a public health problem. In 2000, to support this ambitious goal and the health ministries in the >70 LF-endemic countries, the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) was created. The resulting WHO elimination strategy consists of two main components: to stop the spread of infection by interrupting transmission and to alleviate the suffering of affected populations (by controlling morbidity). The GPELF has brought together a broad global partnership of public and private actors, including three pharmaceutical companies with headquarters in three different continents. The medicine donations programmes from GlaxoSmithKline, MSD (trade name of Merck & Co., Kenilworth, NJ, USA) and Eisai have enabled significant achievements during the first 20 y of the GPELF and are positioned to provide essential contributions to the GPELF's goals for the next decade. As we celebrate the progress towards LF elimination during the GPELF's first 20 y, this article reflects on the factors that led to the creation of the three donation programmes, the contributions these programmes have made and some lessons learned along the way. We close by emphasizing our continued commitments to LF elimination and perspectives on the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tijana Williams
- Global Health Unit, GSK, 980 Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 9GS, UK
| | - Rachel Taylor
- Corporate Responsibility, Merck & Co., Inc., 2000 Galloping Hill Road, Kenilworth, NJ 07033, USA
| | - Minne Iwamoto
- Global Health Unit, GSK, 980 Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 9GS, UK
| | - Takayuki Hida
- Sustainability, Eisai Co., Ltd., 4-6-10 Koishikawa, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 1128088, Japan
| | - Fabian Gusovsky
- Global Health Research, hDAC Eisai Inc., 35 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, MA 02140 USA
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Molyneux DH, Eberhard ML, Cleaveland S, Addey R, Guiguemdé RT, Kumar A, Magnussen P, Breman JG. Certifying Guinea worm eradication: current challenges. Lancet 2020; 396:1857-1860. [PMID: 33278938 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(20)32553-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David H Molyneux
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Mark L Eberhard
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Social Circle, GA, USA
| | - Sarah Cleaveland
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Ashok Kumar
- Central Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, New Delhi, India
| | - Pascal Magnussen
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Joel G Breman
- Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Cavaliero A, Quao B. GPZL Working Group 1 assesses challenges and a path forward for leprosy during COVID-19. LEPROSY REV 2020. [DOI: 10.47276/lr.91.4.421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Hillyer JF. Parasites and Parasitology in this SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 World: An American Society of Parasitologists Presidential Address. J Parasitol 2020; 106:859-868. [PMID: 33450760 DOI: 10.1645/20-158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is one of the worst global health crises of this generation. The core of this pandemic is the rapid transmissibility of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, its high morbidity and mortality, and the presence of infectious asymptomatic carriers. As a result, COVID-19 has dominated this year's headlines and commanded significant research attention. As we consider SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential that scientists, governments, the media, and the general population also come to grips with the everyday cost of parasitic diseases. Plasmodium (malaria), schistosomes, filarial worms, hookworms, Ascaris, whipworms, and other protozoan and metazoan parasites take a tremendous toll on local communities. Yet, because most of these diseases are no longer endemic to developed countries, their research and intervention are not funded at levels that are proportional to their global morbidity and mortality. The scientific and public health communities must indeed vigorously fight SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, but while doing so and beyond, it will be essential to demonstrate steadfast resolve toward understanding and combating the parasitic diseases that for centuries have haunted humankind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julián F Hillyer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235
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