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Denekew T, Eticha T, Teshome Y, Endeshaw S, Ashenef A. Post-marketing quality surveillance of selected antibacterial agents marketed in porous borders; the case of Ethiopia-Sudan-Eritrea border. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0308223. [PMID: 39133679 PMCID: PMC11318851 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0308223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of poor-quality medicines is becoming a public health threat in many parts of the world, particularly in developing countries. Antibiotics are among the most common anti-infective medicines that are highly prone to this problem. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to assess the quality of selected antibacterials that are marketed in Setit Humera and West Gondar Zones, North West Ethiopia, which are located on the Ethiopian side of the Ethiopia-Sudan-Eritrea border. METHODS Seventy-one samples of the four antibacterial medicines (Ciprofloxacin, Norfloxacin, Amoxycillin, and Amoxycillin clavullanate combination) were collected from six sites in Setit Humera and West Gondar Zones, North West Ethiopia. A mystery shopping system was used for sample collection. Visual inspections and confirmation of the registration status were carried out using the joint WHO/FIP/USP checklist and the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority's (EFDA's) Electronic Regulatory Information System (eRIS), respectively. Then Pharmacopeial methods (USP, BP) were employed to assess the physicochemical quality parameters. RESULTS During the period of our data collection, the application status for registration in the eRIS system was checked. From 71 samples, 25.35% (18/71) were not registered, and 15.49% (11/71) were registered, but the license period had expired. Some samples (12.06% (17/71)) did not meet the visual inspection criteria. The physicochemical evaluation showed that all the samples studied met the quality specifications for the identification and hardness tests. However, concerning assay, dissolution, uniformity of dosage units, disintegration, and friability test parameters, 27.49% (23/71), 16.9% (12/71), and 14.08% (10/71), 2.82% (2/71) and 8.57% (3/35) of samples were found to be substandard, respectively. Overall, 56.33% (40/71) of the samples tested were of poor quality, failing to meet any one or more of the assessed parameters in this study. CONCLUSION The study indicated that poor-quality antibacterial medicines are circulating in the study sites. Therefore, even if the area was affected by conflict at the time of the study, the regulatory bodies should focus on enforcing the necessary measures by collaborating with the regional and national regulatory medicine agencies to ensure that the antibacterial medicines available meet the required mandatory minimum standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tewodros Denekew
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tadele Eticha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Yehualashet Teshome
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Chemistry Unit, Asrat Woldeyes Health Science Campus, Debre Birhan University, Debre Birhan, Ethiopia
| | | | - Ayenew Ashenef
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Center for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Kassahun H, Van Schepdael A, Ketema G, Adams E. Development and validation of a simple and affordable LC-UV method for identification and assay of selected antimicrobial medicines. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 244:116127. [PMID: 38554556 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobials, particularly antibiotics, are among the most common classes of drugs reported as substandard and falsified (SF) in developing countries. Therefore, it is important to develop simple and affordable analytical methods for the quality control of antimicrobial medicines. In this study, a liquid chromatographic method with ultraviolet detection (LC-UV) was developed and validated for the screening and quantification of 13 antimicrobial medicines and one beta-lactamase inhibitor in pharmaceutical formulations. LC separation was carried out on a Kinetex C18 column (150 mm × 4.6 mm, 2.6 µm) with gradient elution. The mobile phase consisted of mixtures of acetonitrile-water-10 mM phosphate buffer pH 3.5 at ratios of 3:92:5, v/v/v for mobile phase A and 50:45:5, v/v/v for mobile phase B with a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. The screening method was intended for confirmation of the identity of the actives and validated for specificity and robustness, whereas the quantification method (using only a different detection wavelength) was further validated in terms of linearity, accuracy, sensitivity and precision (repeatability, intermediate precision). For all compounds, the method was found to be linear (r2 > 0.999), precise (%RSD < 1%), accurate (% recovery of 98-102%), sensitive, specific and robust. The developed LC method was successfully applied for the identification and assay of 12 antimicrobial samples from Ethiopia. Among the 12 samples analyzed, one (8.3%) product was confirmed to be falsified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haile Kassahun
- KU Leuven, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Pharmaceutical Analysis, Herestraat 49, O&N2, PB, 923, Leuven 3000, Belgium; Wollo University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Pharmacy P.O. Box 1145, Dessie, , Ethiopia
| | - Ann Van Schepdael
- KU Leuven, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Pharmaceutical Analysis, Herestraat 49, O&N2, PB, 923, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Gebremariam Ketema
- Wollo University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Pharmacy P.O. Box 1145, Dessie, , Ethiopia
| | - Erwin Adams
- KU Leuven, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Pharmaceutical Analysis, Herestraat 49, O&N2, PB, 923, Leuven 3000, Belgium.
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Asrade Mekonnen B, Getie Yizengaw M, Chanie Worku M. Prevalence of substandard, falsified, unlicensed and unregistered medicine and its associated factors in Africa: a systematic review. J Pharm Policy Pract 2024; 17:2375267. [PMID: 39015754 PMCID: PMC11251437 DOI: 10.1080/20523211.2024.2375267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Substandard, falsified, unlicensed, and unregistered medicines pose significant risks to public health in developed and developing countries. This systematic review provides an overview of the prevalence of substandard, falsified, unlicensed, and unregistered medicine and its associated factors in Africa. Methods Articles published from April 2014 to March 2024 were searched in Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase. The search strategy focused on open-access articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and studies exclusively conducted in African countries. The quality of the studies was assessed according to the Medicine Quality Assessment Reporting Guidelines (MEDQUARG). This systematic review was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Results Of the 27 studies, 26 had good methodological quality after a quality assessment. Of the 7508 medicine samples, 1639 failed at least one quality test and were confirmed to be substandard/falsified medicines. The overall estimated prevalence of substandard/falsified medicines in Africa was 22.6% (1718/7592). The average prevalence of unregistered medicines was 34.6% (108/312). Antibiotics, antimalarial, and antihypertensive medicines accounted for 44.6% (712/1596), 15.6% (530/3530), 16.3% (249/1530), and 16.3% (249/1530), respectively. Approximately 60.7% (91/150) were antihelmintic and antiprotozoal medicines. Poor market regulatory permission, Free trade zones, poor registration, high demand, and poor importation standards contribute to the prevalence of these problems. Conclusion/Recommendations Substandard, falsified, and unregistered medicines are highly prevalent in Africa, and attention has not been paid to the problem. Antibiotics, antimalarial, anthelmintic, and antiprotozoal are the most commonly reported substandard, falsified, and unregistered medicines. A consistent supply of high-quality products, enhancement of registration, market regulatory permission, and importation standards are essential to counter the problems in Africa. Preventing these problems is the primary duty of every responsible nation to save lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biset Asrade Mekonnen
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Muluabay Getie Yizengaw
- Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Minichil Chanie Worku
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Sohaili A, Asin J, Thomas PPM. The Fragmented Picture of Antimicrobial Resistance in Kenya: A Situational Analysis of Antimicrobial Consumption and the Imperative for Antimicrobial Stewardship. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:197. [PMID: 38534632 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13030197] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) jeopardizes the effectiveness of essential antimicrobial agents in treating infectious diseases. Accelerated by human activities, AMR is prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya, due to indiscriminate antibiotic use and limited diagnostics. This study aimed to assess Kenya's AMR efforts through a situational analysis of policy efficacy, interventions, and implementation, culminating in recommendations for strengthening mitigation. Employing two methodologies, this study evaluated Kenya's AMR endeavors. A systematic scoping review summarized AMR dynamic, and an expert validated the findings, providing an on-the-ground perspective. Antibiotic resistance is driven by factors including widespread misuse in human medicine due to irrational practices, consumer demand, and substandard antibiotics. Heavy antibiotic use in the agricultural sector leads to contamination of the food chain. The National Action Plan (NAP) reflects a One Health approach, yet decentralized healthcare and funding gaps hinder its execution. Although AMR surveillance includes multiple facets, diagnostic deficiencies persist. Expert insights recognize proactive NAP but underscore implementation obstacles. Kenya grapples with escalating resistance, but commendable policy efforts exist. However, fragmented implementations and complexities persist. Addressing this global threat demands investment in healthcare infrastructure, diagnostics, international partnerships, and sustainable strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarman Sohaili
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Judith Asin
- Pharmaceutical Systems Strengthening Lead, Ecumenical Pharmaceutical Network, P.O. Box 749, Nairobi 00606, Kenya
| | - Pierre P M Thomas
- Institute of Public Health Genomics, Genetics and Cell Biology Cluster, GROW Research School for Oncology and Development Biology, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Tegegne AA, Feissa AB, Godena GH, Tefera Y, Hassen HK, Ozalp Y, Suleman S. Substandard and falsified antimicrobials in selected east African countries: A systematic review. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295956. [PMID: 38277385 PMCID: PMC10817106 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, millions of people have been affected by fraudulent pharmaceutical products, particularly those in developing countries. Although the problem of falsified and substandard drugs is acknowledged, the extent of the issue is ever-changing, has a dynamic nature, and should be quantified and captured in a recent snapshot. OBJECTIVE This systematic review seeks to examine the data that can quantify and provide a current snapshot of the prevalence of SF antimicrobials in selected east Africa countries. METHODS Scientific studies on antimicrobial quality were searched in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar from 2017 to February 2023. The search strategy focused on scientific articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals written in English and the studies exclusively done in any of the selected countries of east Africa. The articles were carefully reviewed by two individuals for inclusion independently, first by title followed by abstract and the full-text retrieval. To minimize bias associated with the methodology used for data collection, the quality of the studies was assessed for quality according to the Medicine Quality Assessment Reporting Guidelines (MEDQUARG). The reporting of this systematic review was done following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). RESULTS Fifteen studies that estimated the prevalence of poor-quality antimicrobial medicines in selected four east African countries were included. The overall percentage of samples of antimicrobials that failed at least one quality test was 22.6% (151/669) with each class's prevalence of 17% in antibiotics (73/432), 24% in antimalarial (41/171), and 56% in anthelmintics (37/66). Quality control parameters of API content were the most commonly examined in the included studies, accounting for 14/15 (93%) studies. Fifty (33.1%) of the failing samples failed assay API- content determination, while 26.5% (n = 40) failed the visual inspection and packaging analysis; 19.2% (29) failed dissolution; 14% (n = 21) flawed hardness or friability; 4%(n = 6) failed uniformity, as well as 3.2% (n = 5) failed disintegration test of the quality control parameter. CONCLUSION It was found that this review was general in these selected east African countries and was a catalyst for combating the menace of poor-quality medications that affect millions of lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Addisu Afrassa Tegegne
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Anbessa Bekele Feissa
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Gemmechu Hasen Godena
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Yesuneh Tefera
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Hassen Kebede Hassen
- Ethiopian Agricultural Authority, Veterinary Drug Quality Control and Inspection Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Near East University, Turkey
| | - Yildiz Ozalp
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Near East University, Turkey
| | - Sultan Suleman
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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Kamere N, Rutter V, Munkombwe D, Aywak DA, Muro EP, Kaminyoghe F, Rajab K, Lawal MO, Muriithi N, Kusu N, Karimu O, Barlatt SHA, Nambatya W, Ashiru-Oredope D. Supply-chain factors and antimicrobial stewardship. Bull World Health Organ 2023; 101:403-411. [PMID: 37265674 PMCID: PMC10225941 DOI: 10.2471/blt.22.288650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Efficient and secure supply chains are vital for effective health services worldwide. In low- and middle-income countries, the accessibility, affordability and availability of essential medicines, including antimicrobials, remain challenging. Ineffective supply chains often cause antimicrobial shortages, leading to inappropriate use of alternative agents and increasing the risk of antimicrobial resistance. Shortages, coupled with insecure supply chains, also encourage the infiltration of substandard and falsified medicines, leading to suboptimal treatment and further promoting antimicrobial resistance. Addressing antimicrobial supply-chain issues should be considered a key component of antimicrobial stewardship programmes. We have explored the link between medicine supply chains and antimicrobial use in seven focus countries: Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania and Zambia. We explored country medicine supply-system structures, national medicine supply-chain policy documents and global study reports. Our aim was to develop evidence-based strategies to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the medicine supply chains in supporting antimicrobial stewardship efforts. Better management of medical supply chains involves rational selection, quantification, forecasting, procurement, storage, distribution, use and stock management of antimicrobials. Important supply-chain considerations include pooled procurement networks to ensure consistent pricing of quality-assured antimicrobials, and improved resource utilization and information exchange among relevant stakeholders. We propose adaptable recommendations for integrating medicine supply chains as an essential part of antimicrobial stewardship programmes, with a call for action at the local, regional and national levels in low- and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nduta Kamere
- Commonwealth Pharmacists Association, London, England
| | | | | | | | - Eva Prosper Muro
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Kilimanjaro, United Republic of Tanzania
| | | | - Kalidi Rajab
- Makerere University Pharmacy Department, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Ndinda Kusu
- Medicines, Technologies, and Pharmaceutical Services Program, Management Sciences for Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Oluwatoyin Karimu
- National Malaria Elimination Programme, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Nigeria
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Irungu BN, Koech LC, Ondicho JM, Keter LK. Quality assessment of selected co-trimoxazole suspension brands marketed in Nairobi County, Kenya. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257625. [PMID: 34551002 PMCID: PMC8457504 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Quality of medicines in both developed and developing countries is sometimes compromised due to infiltration of counterfeit, substandard or degraded medicines into the markets. It is a public health concern as poor quality medicines endanger public health where patients are exposed to chemical toxins and/or sub-therapeutic doses. This could lead to reduced treatment efficacy and promote development of drug resistance. Co-trimoxazole, a fixed dose combination of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, is a broad spectrum for bacterial diseases and is also used as a prophylaxis for opportunistic infections in HIV infected individuals. This study evaluated quality of selected co-trimoxazole suspension brands marketed in Nairobi County, Kenya. METHODS A total of 106 samples were collected, categorized into 15 brands and evaluated for active pharmaceutical ingredient content (API) and pH following United States Pharmacopeia. Assay for API was conducted using High Performance Liquid Chromatography. Results were compared with pharmacopeia references. Visual examination of labels and confirmation of retention status of the brands with Pharmacy and Poisons Board retention register was carried out. RESULTS The samples were primarily of local origin (86.7%). On October 23, 2019, retention status of six of the fifteen brands documented were no longer listed in the Pharmacy and Poisons Board retention register. Of the 106 samples tested 70.6% and 86.8% were compliant with United States Pharmacopeia (USP) specifications for pH and API respectively while 84.0% adhered to packaging and labelling requirements. CONCLUSION This study has demonstrated that majority of co-trimoxazole suspensions tested were compliant with USP requirements. Additionally, it has provided evidence of poor quality co-trimoxazole medicines that could compromise treatment of infectious diseases in children. This emphasizes the need for regular quality assurance tests to ensure only quality medicines are in the market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Njeri Irungu
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Traditional Medicine and Drug Research, Nairobi, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - Lilian C. Koech
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Traditional Medicine and Drug Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joyce M. Ondicho
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Traditional Medicine and Drug Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lucia K. Keter
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Traditional Medicine and Drug Research, Nairobi, Kenya
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Sulis G, Sayood S, Gandra S. Antimicrobial resistance in low- and middle-income countries: current status and future directions. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2021; 20:147-160. [PMID: 34225545 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2021.1951705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Rising rates of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) globally continue to pose agrave threat to human health. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are disproportionately affected, partly due to the high burden of communicable diseases.Areas covered: We reviewed current trends in AMR in LMICs and examined the forces driving AMR in those regions. The state of interventions being undertaken to curb AMR across the developing world are discussed, and the impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic on those efforts is explored.Expert opinion: The dynamics that drive AMR in LMICs are inseparable from the political, economic, socio-cultural, and environmental forces that shape these nations. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated underlying factors that increase AMR. Some progress is being made in implementing surveillance measures in LMICs, but implementation of concrete measures to meaningfully impact AMR rates must address the underlying structural issues that generate and promote AMR. This, in turn, will require large infrastructural investments and significant political will.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Sulis
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sena Sayood
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis
| | - Sumanth Gandra
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis
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Seligsohn D, Crestani C, Forde TL, Chenais E, Zadoks RN. Genomic analysis of group B Streptococcus from milk demonstrates the need for improved biosecurity: a cross-sectional study of pastoralist camels in Kenya. BMC Microbiol 2021; 21:217. [PMID: 34281509 PMCID: PMC8287776 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-021-02228-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, (GBS)) is the leading cause of mastitis (inflammation of the mammary gland) among dairy camels in Sub-Saharan Africa, with negative implications for milk production and quality and animal welfare. Camel milk is often consumed raw and presence of GBS in milk may pose a public health threat. Little is known about the population structure or virulence factors of camel GBS. We investigated the molecular epidemiology of camel GBS and its implications for mastitis control and public health. RESULTS Using whole genome sequencing, we analysed 65 camel milk GBS isolates from 19 herds in Isiolo, Kenya. Six sequence types (STs) were identified, mostly belonging to previously described camel-specific STs. One isolate belonged to ST1, a predominantly human-associated lineage, possibly as a result of interspecies transmission. Most (54/65) isolates belonged to ST616, indicative of contagious transmission. Phylogenetic analysis of GBS core genomes showed similar levels of heterogeneity within- and between herds, suggesting ongoing between-herd transmission. The lactose operon, a marker of GBS adaptation to the mammary niche, was found in 75 % of the isolates, and tetracycline resistance gene tet(M) in all but two isolates. Only the ST1 isolate harboured virulence genes scpB and lmb, which are associated with human host adaptation. CONCLUSIONS GBS in milk from Kenyan camel herds largely belongs to ST616 and shows signatures of adaptation to the udder. The finding of similar levels of within- and between herd heterogeneity of GBS in camel herds, as well as potential human-camel transmission highlights the need for improved internal as well as external biosecurity to curb disease transmission and increase milk production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinah Seligsohn
- Department of Animal Health and Antimicrobial Strategies, National Veterinary Institute, SE- 75189, Uppsala, Sweden.
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Chiara Crestani
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Taya L Forde
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Erika Chenais
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, SE-75189, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ruth N Zadoks
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Emgård M, Mwangi R, Mayo C, Mshana E, Nkini G, Andersson R, Msuya SE, Lepp M, Muro F, Skovbjerg S. Tanzanian primary healthcare workers' experiences of antibiotic prescription and understanding of antibiotic resistance in common childhood infections: a qualitative phenomenographic study. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2021; 10:94. [PMID: 34176486 PMCID: PMC8237496 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-021-00952-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antibiotic resistance is a threat to global child health. Primary healthcare workers play a key role in antibiotic stewardship in the community, but few studies in low-income countries have described their experiences of initiating antibiotic treatment in children. Thus, the present study aimed to describe primary healthcare workers’ experiences of antibiotic prescription for children under 5 years of age and their conceptions of antibiotic resistance in Northern Tanzania. Methods A qualitative study involving individual in-depth interviews with 20 prescribing primary healthcare workers in Moshi urban and rural districts, Northern Tanzania, was performed in 2019. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, translated from Kiswahili into English and analysed according to the phenomenographic approach. Findings Four conceptual themes emerged during the analysis; conceptions in relation to the prescriber, the mother and child, other healthcare actors and in relation to outcome. The healthcare workers relied mainly on clinical examination and medical history provided by the mother to determine the need for antibiotics. Confidence in giving advice concerning non-antibiotic treatment varied among the participants and expectations of antibiotic treatment were perceived to be common among the mothers. Antibiotic resistance was mainly perceived as a problem for the individual patient who was misusing the antibiotics. Conclusions To increase rational antibiotic prescription, an awareness needs to be raised among Tanzanian primary healthcare workers of the threat of antibiotic resistance, not only to a few individuals, but to public health. Guidelines on childhood illnesses should be updated with advice concerning symptomatic treatment when antibiotics are not necessary, to support rational prescribing practices and promote trust in the clinician and mother relationship. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13756-021-00952-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilda Emgård
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. .,Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. .,Department of Paediatrics, Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Rose Mwangi
- Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMUCo), Sokoine Road, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Celina Mayo
- Department of Community Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Ester Mshana
- Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMUCo), Sokoine Road, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Gertrud Nkini
- Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMUCo), Sokoine Road, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Rune Andersson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Microbiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Sia E Msuya
- Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMUCo), Sokoine Road, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Margret Lepp
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Østfold University College, Fredrikstad, Norway.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Florida Muro
- Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMUCo), Sokoine Road, Moshi, Tanzania.,Department of Community Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Susann Skovbjerg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Microbiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
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