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Zeb F, Haleem KS, Almuqbil M, Rashid M, Hussain W, Maqbool F, Tauseef I, Jafri L, Mannasaheb BA, Hussain SA, Quadri MSA, Khormi AMS, Asdaq SMB. Age, gender, and infectious status-wise assessments of hematological parameters among patients with dengue infection. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34053. [PMID: 39055808 PMCID: PMC11269918 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34053] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to examine the impact of different stages of dengue infection on immune cell counts among dengue patients and to compare them with cases of non-dengue febrile illness. Methods The recruited patients were divided into two groups: the first group served as a control (n = 55), representing non-dengue febrile illness, and the second group was identified as dengue febrile illness (n = 149), which was further divided into three groups based on infection stage. Blood samples were collected from the selected patients and subjected to blood cell component analysis. To find IgG and IgM as well as the dengue virus non-structural antigen-1 (NS1), an immunochromatographic test (ICT) kit was utilized. Additionally, a hematological analyzer was used to determine complete blood cell counts (CBC). Data was thoroughly analyzed using Graph Pad Prism 6 software. The differences in means of different groups were calculated by applying the student's t-test. Results The findings revealed the presence of severe leucopenia and thrombocytopenia at stages 1 and 2, accompanied by lymphopenia at stage 1. Group comparisons indicated that only teenagers exhibited a significantly lower white blood cell count compared to older individuals, while no significant differences were observed in lymphocytes, platelets, and monocytes across all age groups. Comparing different age groups of normal individuals to dengue-infected patients, the results unveiled that leucopenia was most severe in adults, followed by teenagers and children, with no significant difference in the elderly. Furthermore, adults showed the greatest degree of thrombocytopenia, followed by teens and kids, with the elderly showing the greatest degree of thrombocytopenia. Adults and teens showed extreme neutrophilia, whereas young children and the elderly showed no discernible abnormalities. Elderly patients experienced a marked decrease in monocyte count, a phenomenon not observed in other age groups. Conclusion In conclusion both, leucopenia & thrombocytopenia, are most severe in stages 1 and 2, whereas neutrophilia & lymphopenia are predominantly severe in stage 1. These results imply that the consequences associated with dengue infection are more severe in the early stages and tend to ameliorate as the patient progresses toward recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiza Zeb
- Department of Microbiology, Hazara University Mansehra, KPK, Pakistan
| | | | - Mansour Almuqbil
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maliha Rashid
- University Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, PMAS Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, 46000, Pakistan
| | - Wajid Hussain
- Advanced Biomaterial & Tissue Engineering Center, College of Life Sciences and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan, 4300, PR China
| | - Farhana Maqbool
- Department of Microbiology, Hazara University Mansehra, KPK, Pakistan
| | - Isfahan Tauseef
- Department of Microbiology, Hazara University Mansehra, KPK, Pakistan
| | - Laila Jafri
- Department of life sciences, Health Services Academy, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Syed Arif Hussain
- Department of Respiratory Care, College of Applied Sciences, AlMaarefa University, Dariyah, 13713, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Islam MT, Bruce M, Alam K. Patterns and determinants of healthcare utilization and medication use before and during the COVID-19 crisis in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and India. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:416. [PMID: 38570763 PMCID: PMC10988829 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10789-4] [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: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 rapidly spread through South Asian countries and overwhelmed the health systems that were unprepared for such an outbreak. Evidence from high-income countries showed that COVID-19 impacted healthcare utilization, including medication use, but empirical evidence is lacking in South Asia. This study aimed to investigate the effect of COVID-19 on healthcare utilization and medication use in South Asia. METHOD The current study used longitudinal data from the 'Premise Health Service Disruption Survey' 2020 and 2021. The countries of interest were limited to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and India. In these surveys, data related to healthcare utilization and medication use were collected for three-time points; 'Pre-COVID phase', 'Initial phase of COVID-19 outbreak', and 'One year of COVID-19 outbreak'. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) along with McNemar's test, Kruskal-Wallis test and χ2 test were applied in this study following the conceptualization of Andersen's healthcare utilization model. RESULT The use of healthcare and medication was unevenly impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and India. Immediately after the COVID-19 outbreak, respondents in Bangladesh reported around four times higher incomplete healthcare utilization compared to pre-COVID phase. In contrast, respondents in Afghanistan reported lower incomplete utilization of healthcare in a similar context. In the post COVID-19 outbreak, non-adherence to medication use was significantly higher in Afghanistan (OR:1.7; 95%CI:1.6,1.9) and India (OR:1.3; 95%CI:1.1,1.7) compared to pre-COVID phase. Respondents of all three countries who sought assistance to manage non-communicable diseases (NCDs) had higher odds (Afghanistan: OR:1.5; 95%CI:1.3,1.8; Bangladesh: OR: 3.7; 95%CI:1.9,7.3; India: OR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.4,3.6) of non-adherence to medication use after the COVID-19 outbreak compared to pre-COVID phase. CONCLUSION The present study documented important evidence of the influence of COVID-19 epidemic on healthcare utilization and medication use in three countries of South Asia. Lessons learned from this study can feed into policy responses to the crisis and preparedness for future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Tauhidul Islam
- Murdoch Business School, Murdoch University, 6150, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Mieghan Bruce
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Centre for Biosecurity and One Health, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 6150, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Khurshid Alam
- Murdoch Business School, Murdoch University, 6150, Perth, WA, Australia
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Sajid M, Tur Razia I, Kanwal A, Ahsan M, Tahir RA, Sajid M, Khan MS, Mukhtar N, Parveen G, Sehgal SA. Computational Advancement towards the Identification of Natural Inhibitors for Dengue Virus: A Brief Review. Comb Chem High Throughput Screen 2024; 27:2464-2484. [PMID: 37859315 DOI: 10.2174/0113862073244468230921050703] [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: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Viral infectious illnesses represent a severe hazard to human health due to their widespread incidence worldwide. Among these ailments, the dengue virus (DENV) infection stands out. World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that DENV infection affects ~400 million people each year, with potentially fatal symptoms showing up in 1% of the cases. In several instances, academic and pharmaceutical researchers have conducted several pilot and clinical studies on a variety of topics, including viral epidemiology, structure and function analyses, infection source and route, therapeutic targets, vaccinations, and therapeutic drugs. Amongst Takeda, TAK-003, Sanofi, Dengvaxia®, and Butantan/NIH/Merck, Dengvaxia® (CYD-TDV) is the only licensed vaccination yet; however, the potential inhibitors are under development. The biology and evolution of DENVs are briefly discussed in this review, which also compiles the most recent studies on prospective antiviral targets and antiviral candidates. In conclusion, the triumphs and failures have influenced the development of anti-DENV medications, and the findings in this review article will stimulate more investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sajid
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Okara, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Iashia Tur Razia
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Okara, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Kanwal
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Okara, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ahsan
- Institute of Environmental and Agricultural Sciences, University of Okara, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Rana Adnan Tahir
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Sahiwal Campus, Sahiwal, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Sajid
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Okara, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan
| | | | - Naila Mukhtar
- Department of Botany, University of Okara, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Gulnaz Parveen
- Department of Botany, Women University Swabi, Swabi, KPK, Pakistan
| | - Sheikh Arslan Sehgal
- Department of Bioinformatics, Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Bioinformatics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan
- Department of Bioinformatics, University of Okara, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan
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Saghir H, Tariq M, Safdar N, Zahoor A, Rashid F, Khan SE, Abid S, Mumtaz H. Association of Liver Function Test with Severity of Dengue Fever in Suburbs of Islamabad. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect 2023; 13:95-99. [PMID: 38596542 PMCID: PMC11000845 DOI: 10.55729/2000-9666.1250] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim This study aimed to identify the key parameters to assist the early diagnosis of Dengue Infection to prevent severe outcomes. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to December 2022 at a tertiary care hospital. 149 patients who presented with dengue symptoms for less than 5 days were enrolled in the study. Hepatic functioning was assessed by monitoring Serum Alanine Transaminase (ALT) (normal = 7-56 IU/L), and serum Aspartate Transaminase (AST) (normal = 10-40 IU/L) levels. Abdominal ultrasound and chest X-Ray were performed, and findings were recorded. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS Version 24. Results 81 patients (54.36%) were found to have Classical DF, while 46 patients (45.64%) were diagnosed with DHF or DSS. Dengue fever is more common in males than in females, and it disproportionately affects those under the age of 30. Only 81 (54.63%) of the total 149 individuals developed DF, but of those, 79 (74.4%) had normal ALT levels and 2 (4.26%) had elevated ALT levels. Among the 68 patients with DHF (45.64%), 41 (87.23%) had elevated ALT, while only 23 (22.55%) had normal ALT and all 4 (8.51%) with DSS did as well. The p-value for the correlation between platelet count and elevated ALT levels is 0.007, which is statistically significant. Conclusion Management of dengue disease requires close monitoring of hepatic enzyme levels, particularly ALT and AST, along with the platelet count. It will aid in reducing the severity of the dengue virus. In addition, there should be particular outdoor exposure guidelines, particularly during dengue season evenings, i.e., monsoon.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Numrah Safdar
- National Institute of Health, Islamabad, 44000,
Pakistan
| | | | | | | | | | - Hassan Mumtaz
- Innovation, Implementation, and Partnership Unit, Association for Social Development, Islamabad, 44000,
Pakistan
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Salim M, Kamran M, Khan I, Saljoqi AUR, Ahmad S, Almutairi MH, Sayed AA, Aleya L, Abdel-Daim MM, Shah M. Effect of larval diets on the life table parameters of dengue mosquito, Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) using age-stage two sex life table theory. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11969. [PMID: 37488190 PMCID: PMC10366198 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39270-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study regarding the effects of larval diets on the life table parameters of dengue mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti was conducted under laboratory conditions at 27 ± 2 °C and 60 ± 5% relative humidity at NIFA (Nuclear Institute for Food and Agriculture) Peshawar, Pakistan. The data on life table parameters of Ae. aegypti reared on Diet 1 (replacement diet), Diet 2 (Khan's diet for Anopheles), Diet 3 (Khan's modified diet) and Diet 4 (IAEA diet) were analyzed using the age-stage, two-sex life table software. Diet 4 (IAEA) was used as a control for comparison. The results indicated that significantly maximum percentage of egg hatching of Ae. aegypti was observed when reared on Diet 4 (73.86%) and Diet 3 (72.90%), while less % of egg hatching was recorded in Diet 1 (40.67%) and Diet 2 (55.53%). The data further showed that the Diet 3 had a highest intrinsic rate of increase (r) (0.097 ± 5.68 day-1), finite rate of increase (λ) (1.10 ± 6.26 day-1) and net reproductive rate (R0) (11.99 ± 1.52 eggs/female) followed by Diet 2 and Diet 4. The mean generation time (T) of Ae. aegypti reared on Diet 3 (23.67 ± 0.86 days) and Diet 1 (24.05 ± 0.61 days) was significantly shorter than Diet 2 (26.15 ± 0.71 days) and Diet 4 (26.41 ± 0.38 days). The overall results revealed that Diet 3 showed good results at different life table parameters of Ae. aegypti and can be used as the preferred diet in the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) where the mass culture of mosquitoes is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Salim
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Crop Protection Sciences, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Kamran
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Crop Protection Sciences, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Inamullah Khan
- Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission, Nuclear Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA), P. O. Box 446, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Ahmad Ur Rahman Saljoqi
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Crop Protection Sciences, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Sarir Ahmad
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Crop Protection Sciences, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
- Department of Entomology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, 23200, Pakistan
| | - Mikhlid H Almutairi
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amany A Sayed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR CNRS 6249, CEDEX, Bourgogne, Franche-Comté University, 25030, Besançon, France
| | - Mohamed M Abdel-Daim
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Muddaser Shah
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Birkat Al Mauz, P.O. Box 33, Nizwa, 616, Oman
- Department of Botany, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, 23200, Pakistan
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Mahmood A, Haq AU, Amin S, Rahim F, Noor M, Gul H, Zafar S, Ahmed Qureshi S, Batul K, Haq M. Predictors of Mortality in Patients With Dengue Fever: Insights From a Comparative Analysis. Cureus 2023; 15:e36040. [PMID: 37056528 PMCID: PMC10088565 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.36040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine the clinical and biochemical predictors of mortality in patients with dengue fever. Methods This was an analytical, cross-sectional study conducted at Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan. The study participants were patients admitted to the hospital for the management of dengue fever. Clinical parameters (age, gender, duration of hospital stay, and the presence of complications) and biochemical parameters [white blood cells count (WBC), platelet count, serum c-reactive protein (CRP) level, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level, and serum creatinine] were recorded. These parameters were compared between the survivors and non-survivors of dengue fever. Results Out of 115 patients, the majority (n=82, 71.3%) were up to 45 years and the mean age was 38.40 ± 18.1 years. Most of the patients (n=105, 91.3%) survived. On univariate logistic regression analysis, age more than 45 years [odds ratio (OR) 0.141, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.034 - 0.585, p = 0.007), leukocytosis (> 11,000/mcL) (OR 0.187, 95% CI 0.049 - 0.719, p = 0.015), and acute kidney injury (creatinine > 1.5 mg/dL) (OR 0.124, 95% CI 0.029 - 0.531, p = 0.005)] at the time of admission reduced the likelihood to survive. Leukocytosis and acute kidney injury remained significant independent predictors of mortality on multivariate logistic regression analysis. [(OR 0.201, 95% CI 0.042 - 0.960, p = 0.044) and (OR 0.148, 95% CI 0.026 - 0.857, p = 0.033) for survival, respectively]. Gender, duration of inpatient stay, thrombocytopenia (platelets < 30,000/mcL), and acute liver injury (ALT > 200 IU/L) were not associated with mortality from dengue fever. Conclusion Age over 45 years, leukocytosis, and acute kidney injury at presentation increased the likelihood of mortality from dengue fever in this study. Gender, duration of hospital stay, thrombocytopenia, and acute liver injury did not affect the odds of mortality.
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Kamran M, Shad SA, Binyameen M, Abbas N, Anees M, Shah RM, Hafez AM. Toxicities and Cross-Resistance of Imidacloprid, Acetamiprid, Emamectin Benzoate, Spirotetramat, and Indoxacarb in Field Populations of Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae). INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13090830. [PMID: 36135531 PMCID: PMC9505463 DOI: 10.3390/insects13090830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Culex quinquefasciatus is a major vector of several pathogens and is capable of breeding in various aquatic habitats. The extensive and injudicious use of synthetic chemicals against the mosquito species has led to the problem of insecticide resistance. To explore this resistance in detail, toxicity bioassays of imidacloprid, acetamiprid, emamectin benzoate, spirotetramat, and indoxacarb were performed on five Cx. quinquefasciatus field populations from Pakistan in addition to a laboratory susceptible strain. Compared with the susceptible strain, results for the five Cx. quinquefasciatus field populations were as follows: susceptibility to high resistance against imidacloprid (resistance ratio (RR): 0.09-11.18), susceptibility to moderate resistance against acetamiprid (RR: 0.39-8.00), susceptibility to emamectin benzoate (RR: 0.002-0.020), susceptibility to spirotetramat (RR: 0.01-0.07), and low to high resistance against indoxacarb (RR: 3.00-118.00). Correlation analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between imidacloprid, acetamiprid, and spirotetramat median lethal concentration (LC50) values, indicating the possibility of cross-resistance. In contrast, there were no significant correlations between the LC50 values of other tested insecticides, indicating the possible absence of cross-resistance. These results can assist public health authorities, medical entomologists, and pest managers to manage the insecticide resistance of Cx. quinquefasciatus as well as the associated pollution and human health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Kamran
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Sarfraz Ali Shad
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Binyameen
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Naeem Abbas
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Anees
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Rizwan Mustafa Shah
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
- Pest Warning and Quality Control of Pesticides Punjab, Lahore 5400, Pakistan
| | - Abdulwahab M. Hafez
- Department of Plant Protection, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Nasir S, Ahmed I, Hussain B, Ijaz MU, Hafeez F, Wadaan MA, Atique U, Mahboob S. A study on the role of aedes mosquitoes in arboviruses and SARS-CoV-2 infection: A new challenge. JOURNAL OF KING SAUD UNIVERSITY - SCIENCE 2022; 34:102179. [PMID: 36000083 PMCID: PMC9388054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jksus.2022.102179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Chikungunya, Zika, Dengue Viruses, and now Novel Coronavirus are global health challenges that cause human diseases ranging from febrile illnesses to death. Most of these viruses are mainly vectored by Aedes mosquitoes worldwide. Molecular detection of arboviruses was made in female Aedes mosquito pools caught from all the seven districts by using a reliable molecular technique, “RT-PCR.” From 216 collections of Aedes species, arboviruses were detected in 27, including only Alphavirus genus to determine mosquito abundance and evaluate the potential role of Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus mosquitoes in arboviruses and nvel Coronavirus transmission. 5322 mosquitoes were collected using aspirators; 35.31% (n = 2049) were identified as female Aedes using morphological keys, pooled into 216 pools, and tested for arboviruses and coronaviruses by using RT-PCR with the help of specific primers. Novel Coronavirus was not detected in this study. Only the Flavivirus genus was detected in twenty-seven pools giving an infection rate of 62.96% (n = 17) for DENV2, while DENV3 was 37.03% (n = 10). Furthermore, our results indicated no role of mosquitoes in the spread of Covid-19. Results showed a higher infection rate in urban sites than in rural ones. The detection of arboviruses indicates possible human health risk due to active role of these mosquitoes in spreading of arbovirus in the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabab Nasir
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Imran Ahmed
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Bilal Hussain
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad U Ijaz
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan
| | - Faisal Hafeez
- Ayub Agriculture Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Ahmad Wadaan
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Usman Atique
- College of Biological Systems, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, South Korea
| | - Shahid Mahboob
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Abdul Sattar M, Nadeem H. Recurring battle with Dengue; post heavy monsoon in Pakistan. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2022; 82:104400. [PMID: 36268390 PMCID: PMC9577420 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Essa M, Taj MA, Khan MH, Amjad Bashir M, Farooq H, Alajmi RA, Hashem M, Alamri S, El-Zohri MA, Ullah K. Awareness and perception of malaria and dengue at school and college level in the district of Multan. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0260868. [PMID: 35143507 PMCID: PMC8830651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to examine the awareness and perception of malaria and dengue fever in Multan Punjab, Pakistan while taking into account the important role of government policies and other variables. The goal of this study is to examine the awareness of students in Multan, Pakistan on malaria and dengue. This study is based on a quantitative approach of secondary evidence from scientific journals and questionnaire surveys. It is also based on observational evidence gathered in Multan Punjab Pakistan, in a field study. The survey with school children, teachers and healthcare professionals were both formal and semi-structuralize. Studies have found that malaria and dengue mainly affect children's schooling through their absence, but can also induce brain loss and cognitive disability. In questionnaires, students were seen to have different understanding of the illness, but also to be able to serve as agents of health reform only through teachers. A sample size of 500 respondents has been selected from different colleges of district Multan Punjab, Pakistan. Correlation technique is used for the data analysis. According to our results it is concluded that the students at college level are aware of malaria and dengue diseases, but they are not capable of engaging and serving as agents for health reform. On the basis of results it is recommended that students must teach about epidemics diseases regarding how to handle these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Essa
- Medical Officer Basic Health Unit, Health Department, Talpur Kot Chuta Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ahmed Taj
- Health Department, Rural Health Center 222EB, District Vehari, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Hakim Khan
- Medical Officer Rural Health Unit, Health Department, Kalur Kot, District Bakhar, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Amjad Bashir
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Hasnain Farooq
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA, United States of America
- Department of Forestry, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan
| | - Reem A. Alajmi
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabi
| | - Mohamed Hashem
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Saad Alamri
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Manal A. El-Zohri
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Kaleem Ullah
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
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Islam Z, Mohanan P, Bilal W, Hashmi T, Rahmat Z, Abdi I, Riaz MMA, Essar MY. Dengue Virus Cases Surge Amidst COVID-19 in Pakistan: Challenges, Efforts and Recommendations. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:367-371. [PMID: 35140482 PMCID: PMC8819273 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s347571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Pakistan is currently facing two outbreaks, dengue and COVID-19; both have strained its healthcare system resulting in multiple concerns including the co-diagnosis of two. Due to poor healthcare capacity, low vaccination rate, increasing COVID-19 variants, socioeconomic disparities, and misinformation, it is inevitable that implications will prove to be damaging to both healthcare workers and civilians. Among these challenges, it is important to note the need for stronger epidemiological surveillance for both COVID-19 and dengue and the implementation of public health measures without endangering sources of livelihood. To sustain this, cooperation between WHO and Pakistan’s government must continue through smart lockdowns, dengue awareness campaigns, and double laboratory procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zarmina Islam
- Faculty of Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Wajeeha Bilal
- Faculty of Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Taleen Hashmi
- Faculty of Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zainab Rahmat
- Faculty of Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ikran Abdi
- Faculty of Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Mohammad Yasir Essar
- Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, Afghanistan
- Correspondence: Mohammad Yasir Essar, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, Afghanistan, Tel +992 117118300, Email
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Awan NJ, Chaudhry A, Hussain Z, Baig ZI, Baig MA, Asghar RJ, Khader Y, Ikram A. Risk Factors of Dengue Fever in Urban Areas of Rawalpindi District in Pakistan During 2017: A Case Control Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2022; 8:e27270. [PMID: 35044313 PMCID: PMC8811695 DOI: 10.2196/27270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During August 2017, increased numbers of suspected dengue fever cases were reported in the hospitals of Rawalpindi district. A case control study was conducted to determine the risk factors among urban areas, dengue serotype, and recommend preventive measures. Objective The objective of the investigation was to determine the risk factors among urban areas, dengue serotype, and recommend preventive measures. Methods A case was defined as having acute febrile illness with one or more of the following symptoms: retro-orbital pain, headache, rash, myalgia, arthralgia, and hemorrhage. The cases were residents of Rawalpindi and were confirmed for dengue fever from August 30, 2017, to October 30, 2017. All NS1 confirmed cases from urban areas of Rawalpindi were recruited from tertiary care hospitals. Age- and sex-matched controls were selected from the same community with a 1:1 ratio. Frequency, univariate, and multivariate analyses were performed at 95% CI with P<.05 considered statistically significant. Results Totally 373 cases were recruited. The mean age was 36 (SD 2.9) years (range 10-69 years), and 280 cases (75%) were male. The most affected age group was 21-30 years (n=151, attack rate [AR] 40%), followed by 31-40 years (n=66, AR 23%). Further, 2 deaths were reported (case fatality rate of 0.53%). The most frequent signs or symptoms were fever (n=373, 100%), myalgia and headache (n=320, 86%), and retro-orbital pain (n=272, 73%). Serotype identification was carried out in 322 cases, and DEN-2 was the dominant serotype (n=126, 34%). Contact with a confirmed dengue case (odds ratio [OR] 4.27; 95% CI 3.14-5.81; P<.001), stored water in open containers at home (OR 2.04; 95% CI 1.53-2.73; P<.001), and travel to a dengue outbreak area (OR 2.88; 95% CI 2.12-3.92; P<.001) were the main reasons for the outbreak, whereas use of mosquito repellents (OR 0.12; 95% CI 0.09-0.18; P<.001) and regular water supply at home (OR 0.03; 95% CI 0.02-0.04; P<.001) showed protective effects. The geographical distribution of cases was limited to densely populated areas and all the 5 randomly collected water samples tested positive for dengue larvae. Conclusions Stored water in containers inside houses and subsequent mosquito breeding were the most probable causes of this outbreak. Based on the study findings, undertaking activities to improve the use of mosquito repellents and removing sources of breeding (uncovered water stored indoors) are some recommendations for preventing dengue outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najma Javed Awan
- Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, National Institute of Health Pakistan, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Ambreen Chaudhry
- Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, National Institute of Health Pakistan, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zakir Hussain
- Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, National Institute of Health Pakistan, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zeeshan Iqbal Baig
- Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, National Institute of Health Pakistan, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Mirza Amir Baig
- Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, National Institute of Health Pakistan, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Yousef Khader
- Department of Community Medicine, Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science & Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Aamer Ikram
- National Institute of Health Pakistan, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Amin S, Noor M, Rahim F, Yasir Khan M, Ullah R. Co-infection With Dengue Virus and Extensively Drug-Resistant Salmonella typhi. Cureus 2021; 13:e19653. [PMID: 34976449 PMCID: PMC8678711 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
In South Asia, infectious diseases are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Malaria, typhoid, and dengue are the most common infectious diseases, and patients may be co-infected with these diseases, resulting in diagnostic and treatment dilemmas. Dengue is caused by the Arboviridae family of viruses and is transmitted by Aedes aegypti. Dengue virus has four serotypes and the symptoms of dengue fever mimic those of other infectious diseases such as malaria, chikungunya, Zika virus disease, influenza A, enteric fever, and coronavirus disease 2019, which are also prevalent in areas of frequent dengue fever outbreak. Dengue fever is characterized by fever, severe myalgia, retro-orbital pain, skin rashes, and bone pain, which is why dengue fever is also referred to as breakbone fever. Patients with secondary dengue virus infection more commonly present with abdominal pain when compared with those with primary dengue virus infection. Salmonella typhi causes enteric fever, which is a human infection with no animal reservoir, but the symptoms of enteric fever closely resemble those of dengue fever. Concurrent infections with multiple organisms are especially difficult to diagnose. In this report, we present the case of a 15-year-old boy from Peshawar, Pakistan, who was co-infected with the dengue virus and extensively drug-resistant Salmonella typhi. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of co-infection with dengue virus and extensively drug-resistant Salmonella typhi.
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Integrating Spatial Modelling and Space-Time Pattern Mining Analytics for Vector Disease-Related Health Perspectives: A Case of Dengue Fever in Pakistan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182212018. [PMID: 34831785 PMCID: PMC8618682 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The spatial–temporal assessment of vector diseases is imperative to design effective action plans and establish preventive strategies. Therefore, such assessments have potential public health planning-related implications. In this context, we here propose an integrated spatial disease evaluation (I-SpaDE) framework. The I-SpaDE integrates various techniques such as the Kernel Density Estimation, the Optimized Hot Spot Analysis, space–time assessment and prediction, and the Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR). It makes it possible to systematically assess the disease concentrations, patterns/trends, clustering, prediction dynamics, and spatially varying relationships between disease and different associated factors. To demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the I-SpaDE, we apply it in the second largest city of Pakistan, namely Lahore, using Dengue Fever (DF) during 2007–2016 as an example vector disease. The most significant clustering is evident during the years 2007–2008, 2010–2011, 2013, and 2016. Mostly, the clusters are found within the city’s central functional area. The prediction analysis shows an inclination of DF distribution from less to more urbanized areas. The results from the GWR show that among various socio-ecological factors, the temperature is the most significantly associated with the DF followed by vegetation and built-up area. While the results are important to understand the DF situation in the study area and have useful implications for public health planning, the proposed framework is flexible, replicable, and robust to be utilized in other similar regions, particularly in developing countries in the tropics and sub-tropics.
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Mazhari F, Rayyani M, Iranmanesh S, Heidari S, Sabzevari S. Power of Religious Beliefs and Coping with Cancer: Opinions of Iranian Parents. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2021; 60:2878-2891. [PMID: 31820276 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-019-00959-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Childhood cancer as a stressful event has many consequences for both the parents and their children. The aim of the study was to assess the coping strategies used by Iranian parents of children with cancer. The present study was conducted through convenience sampling with the participation of 205 parents with at least one child with cancer referred to the oncology ward, in the southeast of Iran. The Coping Health Inventory for Parents was used to measure parental coping strategies. Results showed that the highest and the lowest mean coping score belonged to the dimensions of social support and medical factors, respectively. Briefly, "Belief in God" and "Gratefulness for his Blessings" were the most helpful coping strategies among parents. Based on results of this study, it seems necessary for nurses to be aware of all aspects of human existence, including religion and spirituality as strong sources of power for parents to adapt with the illness of their child. Also, providing interventions to teach effective coping skills to parents may reduce their distress and improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Mazhari
- Nursing Research Center, Razi School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Masoud Rayyani
- Nursing Research Center, Razi School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Sedigheh Iranmanesh
- Nursing Research Center, Razi School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Shahin Heidari
- Department of Fundamental Nursing, Geriatric Care Research Center, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Sakineh Sabzevari
- Nursing Research Center, Razi School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Ahmed T, Liaqat I, Hyder MZ, Akhtar S, Bhatti AH, Butt SB, Imran Z, Yasmin T, Abbas S. Elucidation of larvicidal potential of metallic and environment friendly food-grade nanostructures against Aedes albopictus. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2021; 43:1903-1925. [PMID: 33179203 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-020-00771-4] [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: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
To combat health challenges associated with mosquito-borne diseases, the larvicidal activity of metallic nanoparticles, food-grade polymeric nano-capsules and insecticides was investigated against larvae of Aedes albopictus as an effective alternate control approach. The Ae. albopictus was identified using sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of COXI, CYTB and ITS2 genes. The characterization of synthesized nanostructures was performed through Zetasizer, UV-VIS spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The mosquito larvae were exposed to varying concentration of nanostructures and insecticides, and their percentage mortality was evaluated at different time intervals of 24 h and 48 h exposure. The highest efficacy was observed in zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) and polymeric nanocapsules FG-Cur E-III (LC50 = 0.24 mg/L, LC90 = 0.6 mg/L) and (LC50 = 3.8 mg/L, LC90 = 9.33 mg/L), respectively, after 24 h; while (LC50 = 0.18 mg/L, LC90 = 0.43 mg/L) and (LC50 = 1.95 mg/L, LC90 = 6.46 mg/L), respectively, after 48 h against fourth instar larvae of Ae. albopictus. Ag, CuO, NiTiO3 and CoTiO3 nanoparticles evaluated in this study also showed promising larvicidal activity. Although ZnO-NPs proved to be effective larvicides, their possible toxicity (producing ROS species) can limit their use. The curcumin nanostructures (FG-Cur E-III) stabilized by food-grade materials are thought to exert their larvicidal activity by binding to sterol carrier protein-2, and depriving the larvae from the essential dietary cholesterol, and bears effective larvicidal potential as safe alternative for chemical larvicides, due to their environment friendly, food-grade and easy biodegradability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toqeer Ahmed
- Centre for Climate Research and Development (CCRD), COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
| | - Irfan Liaqat
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Zeeshan Hyder
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan.
| | - Shaheen Akhtar
- Health Services Academy (HSA), Park Road, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Shahid Bilal Butt
- Preston Institute of Nano Sciences and Technology (PINSAT), Preston University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zahid Imran
- Department of Physics, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
| | - Tayyaba Yasmin
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
| | - Shabbar Abbas
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
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Hussain W, Shaikh M, Hanif M, Ashfaq M, Ahmed H, Nisa BU. Pattern and Outcome of Dengue Fever in a Pediatric Tertiary Hospital: A Retrospective Report. Cureus 2021; 13:e14164. [PMID: 33936876 PMCID: PMC8080948 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.14164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction For Pakistan, dengue has been established as a public health problem. With superimposed factors such as poor socioeconomic conditions, limited public health awareness, poor hygiene, and sanitation conditions, the situation has become more severe and complications have become frequent. Almost 90% of all infections occur in children of age less than 18 years. This is a three-year retrospective report of dengue fever in Southern Pakistan. Methods In this retrospective analysis, all records of patients admitted to the National Institute of Child Health, Karachi, from May 1, 2016, till April 30, 2019, diagnosed with dengue fever were recruited. Their demographic, clinical, and biochemical records were assessed. The outcome was also recorded. Data were entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows version 20.0 (IBM Corp., Chicago). Results Among 93 cases of dengue fever, there were 71 (76.3%) male and 22 (23.7%) female children. Their mean age was 5.7 ± 3.07 years. The mean duration from onset of disease to hospitalization was 4.2 ± 2.1 days. The mean platelet count was 47391.30 ± 41370.61 x 109/L. Fever (100%) and abdominal pain (35.5%) were common presentations. Bleeding episodes were seen in 31% of children, rash in 15%, disseminated intravascular coagulation in 3%, and 1% developed pleural effusion. There were no mortalities; 87 (93.5%) were discharged and six (6.5%) children left against medical advice. Conclusion Fever, abdominal pain, bleeding episodes, and rash were common presentations. Hematological, hepatological, neurological, and pleural complications were not uncommon. The outcome of the disease was adequate and there were no mortalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wajid Hussain
- Pediatrics and Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Mehmood Shaikh
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Muhammad Hanif
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Muhammad Ashfaq
- Pediatrics and Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Habib Ahmed
- Pediatrics and Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Bader-U- Nisa
- Pediatrics and Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
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Egieyeh E, van Huyssteen M, Coetzee R, Bheekie A. Evaluating pharmacy students' knowledge and skills in reproductive, maternal, new-born and child health care at a South African university. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2021; 21:34. [PMID: 33413294 PMCID: PMC7791779 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-020-02476-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal and child mortality is a global concern and one of South Africa's quadruple burdens of disease. As easily accessible frontline healthcare workers, pharmacists play an important role in the continuum of maternal and child health (MCH) care according to recommendations by international health regulatory bodies. Pharmacy schools are obliged to train pharmacy students to meet the priority health needs of the population so that graduates are 'fit for purpose'. The baseline study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and skills of 2017 final year pharmacy students who were exposed to a fragmented MCH care curriculum at a university in South Africa to inform curriculum review. METHODS A descriptive, quantitative, non-randomized study was conducted among final year pharmacy students using a self-administered structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed in sections to assess participants' knowledge of reproductive and sexual health (RSH), maternal and antenatal care (MAC), neonatal and child care (NCC) and skills related to infant growth assessment procedures. Data was analysed descriptively using frequencies and percentages. A score of 50% in each section of the questionnaire indicated a pass. Participants assessed their exposure to MCH topics in the curriculum. RESULTS Of the 89 available students, 61% consented to participate in the study. The average scores attained for each section were; 62.4% for RSH, 54.5% for MAC, 50.4% for NCC and 25.3% for infant growth assessment. The pass rate was 78% for RSH, 56% for MAC, 57% for NCC, and 19% for infant growth assessment. About 13% of the participants passed all the knowledge and the skills sections. Age, gender, being a parent or doing locums did not have any influence on participants' performance. Participants reported that they had more on-campus curriculum content exposure to RSH compared to other MCH care topics. CONCLUSION Final year pharmacy students showed adequate knowledge of RSH with adequate curriculum exposure. Average knowledge of MAC, NCC and poor skills in infant growth assessment which corresponded to curriculum exposure was observed. The results suggest the need for improvement in the current curriculum in the affected areas to adequately equip students to render desirable services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Egieyeh
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, 7535 South Africa
| | - Mea van Huyssteen
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, 7535 South Africa
| | - Renier Coetzee
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, 7535 South Africa
| | - Angeni Bheekie
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, 7535 South Africa
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Waris M, Nasir S, Rasule A, Yousaf I. Evaluation of Larvicidal Efficacy of Ricinus communis (Castor) Plant Extract and Synthesized Green Silver Nanoparticles against Aedes albopictus. J Arthropod Borne Dis 2020; 14:162-172. [PMID: 33365344 PMCID: PMC7738929 DOI: 10.18502/jad.v14i2.3734] [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: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aedes mosquitoes are the most important group of vectors having ability of transmitting pathogens including arboviruses that can cause serious diseases like Chikungunya fever, Dengue fever and Zika virus in human. Biosynthesis and the use of green silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is an important step in the search of reliable and ecofriendly control of these vectors. Methods In this study an aqueous leaves extract of Ricinus communis (castor) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from this extract were evaluated as larvicidal agent for 2nd and 3rd instar larvae of the Aedes albopictus. Different concentrations (50, 100, 150, 200 and 250ppm) of plant extract and synthesized nanoparticles were prepared and applied on second and third instar larvae. The percent mortality was noted after 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 and 48H of exposure and subjected to probit analysis to calculate LC50 and LC90. Results Synthesized Ag+ nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (XRD). The nanoparticles were more toxic against larvae of Ae. albopictus with LC50 value (49.43ppm) and LC90 value (93.65ppm) for 2nd instar larvae and LC50 (84.98ppm) and LC90 (163.89ppm) for 3rd instar larvae as compared to the plant extract (149.58ppm, 268.93ppm) and (155.58ppm, 279.93ppm) for 2nd and 3rd instar larvae of Ae. albopictus respectively after 48H. Conclusion Our results suggest the extract of R. communis and synthesized nanoparticles as excellent replacement of chemical pesticides to control the vector mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Waris
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Shabab Nasir
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Azhar Rasule
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Iqra Yousaf
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
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Anwar F, Tayyab M, Salman M, Abdullah, Din M, Khan J, Haq I. Dengue outbreak 2018 in district Shangla KPK; clinical features and laboratory markers of dengue virus infection. Future Virol 2020. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2019-0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Aim: To analyze and quantify the 2018 dengue outbreak which occurred in district Shangla, Pakistan. Materials & methods: 964 suspected dengue samples were collected and examined for clinical manifestation and laboratory markers. Results: In all, 375 suspected cases were confirmed with dengue virus infection using nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) antigen, immunoglobulin M (IgM) & Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies and real-time PCR whereas PCR was 92.2% sensitive. The most prevalent serotype was dengue virus 3 (60.26%). The male/female ratio was 1.84 and the most highly affected tehsil was Alpuri. The most affected age group was 16–40 years (70.4%). A significant number of cases were reported in September (48.54%). Conclusion: Recurrence of the dengue outbreaks in the study area could alarmingly increase the mortality rate, therefore, proper measures are essential to control dengue epidemics in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faheem Anwar
- Department of Genetics, Hazara University, Mansehra Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Tayyab
- Institute of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering (IBGE), The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
- Author for correspondence:
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Department of Microbiology & Biotechnology, Abasyn University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah
- Department of Microbiology & Biotechnology, Abasyn University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Misbahud Din
- Department of Biotechnology, Quaid-I-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Jawad Khan
- Department of Genetics, Hazara University, Mansehra Pakistan
| | - Ihteshamul Haq
- Graduate School of Biotechnology & Oriental Medicine Kyunghee University, Suwon, South Korea
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Waris M, Nasir S, Abbas S, Azeem M, Ahmad B, Khan NA, Hussain B, Al-Ghanim K, Al-Misned F, Mulahim N, Mahboob S. Evaluation of larvicidal efficacy of Ricinus communis (Castor) and synthesized green silver nanoparticles against Aedes aegypti L. Saudi J Biol Sci 2020; 27:2403-2409. [PMID: 32884423 PMCID: PMC7451677 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2020.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aedes mosquitoes are the most important group of vectors that transmit pathogens, including arboviruses, and cause human diseases such as dengue fever, yellow fever, Zika virus, and Chikungunya. Biosynthesis and the use of green silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is a vital step to identify reliable and eco-friendly controls for these vectors. In this study, Aedes (Ae.) aegypti larvae (2nd and 3rd instar) were exposed to leaf extracts of Ricinus communis (Castor) and AgNPs synthesized from the extract to evaluate their larvicidal potential. Synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (XRD). Ae. aegypti larvae were treated with different concentrations (50-250 ppm) of the leaf extract and synthesized AgNPs. There were five replicates per treatment, in addition to a positive (temephos) and negative control (dechlorinated water). Mortality was recorded after 12, 24, 36, and 48 h and the data were subjected to Probit analysis. The nanoparticles were more toxic (LC50 = 46.22 ppm and LC90 = 85.30 ppm) than the plant extract (106.24 and 175.73 ppm, respectively). The leaf extracts of Ricinus communis were subjected to HPLC analysis to identify their chemical constituents. This study suggests that plant extracts and synthesized nanoparticles are excellent alternatives to hazardous chemical pesticides used to control vector mosquitoes. This is a potentially useful technique that can reduce aquatic toxicity from insecticide use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Waris
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad 38040, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Shabab Nasir
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad 38040, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Sadia Abbas
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad 38040, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Azeem
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad 38040, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Bilal Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad 38040, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Naveed Ahmad Khan
- Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Zoology Division, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Bilal Hussain
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad 38040, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - K.A. Al-Ghanim
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - F. Al-Misned
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - N. Mulahim
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shahid Mahboob
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Shabbir W, Pilz J, Naeem A. A spatial-temporal study for the spread of dengue depending on climate factors in Pakistan (2006-2017). BMC Public Health 2020; 20:995. [PMID: 32586294 PMCID: PMC7318413 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08846-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Pakistan, dengue fever has become a major concerning factor, given that it is a relatively new disease compared to malaria. The number of people affected by dengue fever has increased at least 10-fold in the last 15 years in specific areas of Pakistan. Therefore, it is necessary to analyse this disease to reduce or prevent the effects of dengue fever in the region. METHODS Geographical information system (GIS) maps are used to identify the intensity of the spread according to the count of affected people in our study area. Generalised linear modelling (GLM) is used to study the significance of factors associated with dengue fever. RESULTS The dengue virus is present throughout the year in specific areas of Pakistan. Karachi and Lahore are most significantly affected with cases in these two most populous cities of Pakistan reported every year. In the study period (2006-2017), 2011 was the most devastating year for Pakistan. Lahore recorded more than 17,000 confirmed cases with 290 deaths in a single year. The GLM analysis shows rainfall, the average maximum temperature, and hospitals to be significant factors in the prevalence of dengue fever. CONCLUSION This study finds that Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are two of the primarily vulnerable provinces for the spread of dengue fever. Punjab has observed sporadic increases in dengue fever cases. In Pakistan, dengue cases increase in the rainfall season, especially during monsoon season. Lack of proper hospitals and clinics are another major factor, and mobile hospitals are needed in remote hotspot regions often affected by dengue fever. Finally, improved sanitation systems in metropoles would facilitate reducing breeding grounds for Aedes Aegypti larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqas Shabbir
- Institute of Statistics, Alpen Adria University of Klagenfurt, University Street 65-67, Klagenfurt, 9020, Carinthia, Austria.
| | - Juergen Pilz
- Institute of Statistics, Alpen Adria University of Klagenfurt, University Street 65-67, Klagenfurt, 9020, Carinthia, Austria
| | - Amna Naeem
- Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45000, Pakistan
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Shahid U, Farooqi JQ, Barr KL, Mahmood SF, Jamil B, Imitaz K, Azizullah Z, Malik FR, Prakoso D, Long MT, Khan E. Comparison of clinical presentation and out-comes of Chikungunya and Dengue virus infections in patients with acute undifferentiated febrile illness from the Sindh region of Pakistan. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008086. [PMID: 32203509 PMCID: PMC7141694 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Arboviruses are a cause of acute febrile illness and outbreaks worldwide. Recent outbreaks of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) in dengue endemic areas have alarmed clinicians as unique clinical features differentiating CHIKV from Dengue virus (DENV) are limited. This has complicated diagnostic efforts especially in resource limited countries where lab testing is not easily available. Therefore, it is essential to analyse and compare clinical features of laboratory confirmed cases to assist clinicians in suspecting possible CHIKV infection at time of clinical presentation. Methodology A prospective point prevalence study was conducted, with the hypothesis that not all patients presenting with clinical suspicion of dengue infections at local hospitals are suffering from dengue and that other arboviruses such as Chikungunya, West Nile viruses, Japanese Encephalitis virus and Zika virus are co-circulating in the Sindh region of Pakistan. Out-patients and hospitalized (in-patients) of selected district hospitals in different parts of Sindh province of Pakistan were recruited. Patients with presumptive dengue like illness (Syndromic diagnosis) by the treating physicians were enrolled between 2015 and 2017. Current study is a subset of larger study mentioned above. Here-in we compared laboratory confirmed cases of CHIKV and DENV to assess clinical features and laboratory findings that may help differentiate CHIKV from DENV infection at the time of clinical presentation. Results Ninety-eight (n = 98) cases tested positive for CHIKV, by IgM and PCR and these were selected for comparative analysis with DENV confirmed cases (n = 171). On multivariable analysis, presence of musculoskeletal [OR = 2.5 (95% CI:1.6–4.0)] and neurological symptoms [OR = 4.4 (95% CI:1.9–10.2)], and thrombocytosis [OR = 2.2 (95% CI:1.1–4.0)] were associated with CHIKV infection, while atypical lymphocytes [OR = 8.3 (95% CI:4.2–16.7)] and thrombocytopenia [OR = 8.1 (95% CI:1.7–38.8)] were associated with DENV cases at time of presentation. These findings may help clinicians in differentiating CHIKV from DENV infection. Conclusion CHIKV is an important cause of illness amongst patients presenting with acute febrile illness in Sindh region of Pakistan. Arthralgia and encephalitis at time of presentation among patients with dengue-like illness should prompt suspicion of CHIKV infection, and laboratory confirmation must be sought. Chikungunya and Dengue viral infection are prevalent in South Asia. These are spread by mosquito bites and present as acute febrile illness with clinical presentation difficult to differentiate. In this study we analysed clinical findings of patients with lab confirmed Dengue virus and Chikungunya virus infection and compared the clinical symptoms to assess significant features that can differentiate the two infections at time of presentation to clinics and hospitals. The study was conducted at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi Pakistan. Our study confirms presence of Chikungunya virus as an etiologic agent of fever among patients with dengue like illness in Sindh province of Pakistan. Presence of joint pains, central nervous symptoms were more common in CHKV patients, while gastrointestinal symptoms and elevated liver enzymes were more commonly associated with dengue patients. Both viruses are endemic in Pakistan and clinical and lab diagnosis is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uzma Shahid
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Joveria Q. Farooqi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Kelli L. Barr
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, United States of America
| | | | - Bushra Jamil
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Kehkashan Imitaz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zahida Azizullah
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Faisal R. Malik
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Dhani Prakoso
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Maureen T. Long
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Erum Khan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
- * E-mail:
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Hassan J, Borhany M, Abid M, Zaidi U, Fatima N, Shamsi T. Coagulation abnormalities in dengue and dengue haemorrhagic fever patients. Transfus Med 2019; 30:46-50. [PMID: 31854052 DOI: 10.1111/tme.12658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess abnormality of coagulation and anticoagulation parameters in dengue fever patients and the impact of these tests on the management of patients. BACKGROUND Dengue fever is endemic in Pakistan with seasonal rise in cases. Morbidities and mortalities are proportionately reported to be increasing and associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation resulting in haemorrhagic or thrombotic manifestations in patients having deranged coagulation profiles. METHODS/MATERIALS This observational and descriptive study was conducted on confirmed Dengue patients at the National Institute of Blood Diseases during the years 2013 to 2016. Patients of all age groups were included in this study. Results were analysed by SPSS version 23. RESULTS A total of 200 patients were selected with the mean age being 28.68 years (±13.28) and male predominance (147/200). The mean platelet count, haemoglobin and haematocrit at base line for bleeders and non-bleeders showed significant results, where platelet count at baseline for bleeders was 24 000, whereas for non-bleeders it was 29 000 and it showed significant correlation with bleeding (P-value .027). Platelets were transfused to 76 (38%) patients. However, none of the specialised haemostasis parameters beside the platelet count correlated with bleeding, requiring platelet transfusions. CONCLUSION Our study showed a significant association of platelet counts, haemoglobin and haematocrit with bleeding. It can be concluded that coagulation and anticoagulation profiles will not benefit the management of dengue patients and in countries like Pakistan, it will only add to the economic burden on the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawad Hassan
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis, National Institute of Blood Disease & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Munira Borhany
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis, National Institute of Blood Disease & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Madiha Abid
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis, National Institute of Blood Disease & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Uzma Zaidi
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis, National Institute of Blood Disease & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Naveena Fatima
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis, National Institute of Blood Disease & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Tahir Shamsi
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis, National Institute of Blood Disease & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
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Islam MT, Mubarak MS. Diterpenes and their derivatives as promising agents against dengue virus and dengue vectors: A literature‐based review. Phytother Res 2019; 34:674-684. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Torequl Islam
- Department for Management of Science and Technology DevelopmentTon Duc Thang University Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam
- Faculty of PharmacyTon Duc Thang University Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam
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Climatic Conditions: Conventional and Nanotechnology-Based Methods for the Control of Mosquito Vectors Causing Human Health Issues. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16173165. [PMID: 31480254 PMCID: PMC6747303 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16173165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Climate variability is highly impacting on mosquito-borne diseases causing malaria and dengue fever across the globe. Seasonal variability change in temperature and rainfall patterns are impacting on human health. Mosquitoes cause diseases like dengue fever, yellow fever, malaria, Chikungunya, West Nile and Japanese encephalitis. According to estimations by health organizations, annually one million human deaths are caused by vector-borne diseases, and dengue fever has increased about 30-fold over the past 50 years. Similarly, over 200 million cases of malaria are being reported annually. Mosquito-borne diseases are sensitive to temperature, humidity and seasonal variability. Both conventional (environmental, chemical, mechanical, biological etc.) and nanotechnology-based (Liposomes, nano-suspensions and polymer-based nanoparticles) approaches are used for the eradication of Malaria and dengue fever. Now green approaches are used to eradicate mosquitoes to save human health without harming the environment. In this review, the impact of climatic conditions on mosquito-borne diseases along with conventional and nanotechnology-based approaches used for controlling malaria and dengue fever have been discussed. Important recommendations have been made for people to stay healthy.
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Clinical Profiles of Dengue Fever Patients, during an Outbreak. J Arthropod Borne Dis 2019; 13:126-134. [PMID: 31803773 PMCID: PMC6885141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dengue fever (DF) has become a major public health concern globally. It is an infection caused by a virus of the family Flaviviridae, with five serotypes (DENV 1-5). Recent years have seen an increase in the prevalence of the disease in Pakistan. The current study was carried out to evaluate the clinical features, laboratory findings and demographic information of the patients reported during the dengue outbreak in Multan of Pakistan in 2015. METHODS The hospital documentation-based data of confirmed DF cases were collected for the 6 months period from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Multan, Pakistan. The patients were labeled as confirmed on the basis of NS1 and IgM positivity by ELISA. The data collected were analyzed using SPSS. RESULTS Overall, 361 patients were investigated (78.67% males and 21.33% females), with maximum infection rate in the age group of 18-35yr (50.41%). Mean hospital stay was 2.64d (SD 1.2), while mean fever duration was 5.27 (SD 1.57). Outbreak occurred during the months from Jul-Dec, while maximum patients were reported in Oct (287). No mortality was reported, and all patients recovered. CONCLUSION Better management practices and timely reporting can reduce the risk factors associated with the disease.
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Ali Syed A, Bin Zafar S, Ali Shah A, Awan S. The use of folic acid in dengue: has it any value? Trop Doct 2019; 49:85-87. [DOI: 10.1177/0049475519827110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Folic acid is used in dengue patients. Our study aims to compare the duration of recovery of thrombocytopenia in patients with dengue infection who received folic acid and those who did not. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of adult patients admitted over six years with a diagnosis of dengue. Of 2216 patients, 1464 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Group A were those patients who received folic acid and group B were those who did not. A total of 1322 (90.3%) patients received folic acid. The mean time period required for platelets to double the nadir was 1.7 (±2.2) days in both groups A and B ( P = 0.89). In conclusion, there is no significant difference in the recovery of thrombocytopenia in patients with dengue fever who received folic and those who did not receive folic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahsan Ali Syed
- Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Saad Bin Zafar
- Resident, Department of Medicine, The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Asif Ali Shah
- Resident, Department of Medicine, The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Safia Awan
- Senior Instructor, Department of Medicine, The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
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Mahmood S, Irshad A, Nasir JM, Sharif F, Farooqi SH. Spatiotemporal analysis of dengue outbreaks in Samanabad town, Lahore metropolitan area, using geospatial techniques. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2019; 191:55. [PMID: 30617862 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-018-7162-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Dengue is endemic to Pakistan with its usual peak incidence in the post-monsoon period. In the last decade, dengue outbreaks have occurred in major urban areas particularly Karachi and Lahore, affecting large numbers of people. This study is an attempt to analyze the spatiotemporal variation of dengue fever (DF) in Samanabad town, Lahore metropolitan area. The study is based on secondary data, acquired from concerned government departments. Point level geo-coding is used to transform the relative location to the absolute location using Google Earth, and Global Position System (GPS) is used to validate the geo-coded location. Geographic information system (GIS) has been used to perform spatial analysis. It has been found that temporally DF prevalence varies from month to month and year to year. Major outbreak was observed in the year 2013 with more than 900 confirmed DF cases. Rainfall, temperature, and humidity have played a central role in outbreaks. The land cover pattern and population density further intensified the outbreak. Spatially, the number of DF incidence was high in those localities where the entire land is built-up and with little/no green space areas. Analysis reveals that DF is still a major threat to the area as socioeconomic and geographic conditions favor vector breeding and transfer of disease from one person/place to another. This study presents useful information regarding spatiotemporal patterns of dengue outbreak and may bring the attention of public health departments to formulate dengue-combating strategies. The methodology is general for spatiotemporal analysis and can be applied to other infectious diseases as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakeel Mahmood
- Department of Geography, Government College University Lahore, Lower Mall, District Lahore, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan.
| | - Ahtisham Irshad
- Department of Geography, Government College University Lahore, Lower Mall, District Lahore, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | | | - Faiza Sharif
- Sustainable Development Study Center, Government College University Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shahid Hussain Farooqi
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
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Abstract
Various books such as Handbook of Viral Bioterrorism and Biodefense (Clercq and Kern, 2003), Biosecurity and Bioterrorism: Containing and Preventing Biological Threats (Ryan and Glarum, 2008), and Bioterrorism: Threats and Deterrents (Çankaya and Kibaroǧlu, 2010) have discussed threats, causes, and effects of bioterrosim in different parts of the world. The chapter on “Bioterrorism, an Emerging Threat in Pakistan” focuses on the current situation of bioterrorism in Pakistan. Several examples from all around the world have been quoted to highlight different incidents of bioterrorism across the world. After addressing vicious epidemics, several laboratory methods for detection and surveillance for bioterrorism have been elaborated. The case studies of bioterrorism in terms of warfare highlight use of bioweapons at political fronts. Similarly, the success story of controlling bird flu and advent and persistence of dengue show the status of bioterrorism and Pakistan's preparedness to deal with this menace. Pakistan has strengthened itself to deal with bioterrorism by adopting different national and global tools for governance. However, the rapid decline in environmental quality leads to an increase in biohazards. It is important to address bioterrorism at every forum so that sustainable solutions can be devised to tackle environmental deteriorations.
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Bakhsh K, Sana F, Ahmad N. Dengue fever in Punjab, Pakistan: Knowledge, perception and adaptation among urban adults. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 644:1304-1311. [PMID: 30743843 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Climate change and weather variations are strongly associated with the incidence of dengue fever, outbreak risk in Pakistan and other developing countries. Knowledge and adaptation measures can affect the incidence and outbreak risk of dengue fever. The present study attempted to determine the knowledge, perception and adaptation to dengue fever by the respondents in Faisalabad, Pakistan employing cross-sectional data. The respondents who suffered and those that did not suffer from dengue fever have reported that electronic and print media were important sources of awareness about dengue fever. Around 59% respondents who did not suffer from dengue fever reported knowledge of being affected by dengue fever and 67% did not perceive that the symptoms of dengue fever would appear after mosquito biting. Logit model was employed to examine the factors affecting the adaptation measures to reduce the incidence of dengue fever. Education, family size, adults, income and perception were significantly related adaptation to dengue fever. The respondents that suffered from dengue fever were highly probable to use the adaptation measures compared to the respondents that did not suffer from dengue fever. Findings of the study might be helpful for the public health authorities to devise policies on improving awareness of dengue fever among the masses and sensitizing population to use adaptation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khuda Bakhsh
- Department of Management Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Vehari Campus, Pakistan.
| | - Faiza Sana
- Institute of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Najid Ahmad
- School of Business, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, Hunan, China.
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Ali A, Ahmad H, AbouHaidar MG, Idrees M, Ali I. Complete genome amplification and sequencing of DENV-2 Pakistani isolates: analysis reveals molecular evolution of DENV-2. Future Virol 2018. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2018-0149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Aim: This study was aimed to amplify, characterize and analyze complete genomes of dengue virus serotype-2 (DENV-2) Pakistani isolates. Patients & methods: Complete genomes of DENV-2 (n = 4) in nine overlapping fragments from two dengue outbreaks (2011 and 2013) were sequenced; deposited in GenBank (Punjab Isolates: KM217157 and KM217156; Swat Isolates: KM217158 and KJ701507) and characterized using specific primers, we designed. Results: Analysis clustered Pakistani isolates with the cosmopolitan genotypes and further indicated that codons 65 of C, 155 of PrM, 203 of E and 254 of NS1 genes were under negative selection pressure. A substitution of alanine with proline in NS5 gene at nucleotide position 885 in Swat isolates was observed. Conclusion: DENV-2 is spreading to other parts of Pakistan with the possible adaptability of the virus molecularly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amjad Ali
- Centre for Human Genetics, Hazara University, Mansehra, 21300, Pakistan
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, M5S 3B2, Canada
| | - Habib Ahmad
- Vice Chancellor, Islamia College University, Peshawar, 25120 CAMB, Pakistan
- Department of Genetics, Hazara University Mansehra, 21300, Pakistan
| | - Mounir G AbouHaidar
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, M5S 3B2, Canada
| | - Muhammad Idrees
- Vice Chancellor, Hazara University, Mansehra, 21300, Pakistan
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 53700, Pakistan
| | - Ijaz Ali
- Department of Biological Sciences, COMSATS University , Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
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Mubbashir H, Munir S, Kashif R, Nawaz HB, Abdul B, Baharullah K. Characterization of dengue virus in Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus spp. of mosquitoes: A study in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. MOLECULAR BIOLOGY RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2018; 7:77-82. [PMID: 30046621 PMCID: PMC6054776 DOI: 10.22099/mbrc.2018.29073.1315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Dengue is a vector-borne disease caused by dengue virus. According to the recent report of CDC that one-third population of the world are at high risk with Dengue fever. The prevalence of the dengue hemorrhagic fever was found more in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Aedes mosquitoes was reported as the main cause of transmission of dengue virus. So the current study was planned to characterize the virus in Aedes mosquitoes collected from different area of Pakistan. In current investigation, Aedes mosquitoes and larvae were trapped under conducive conditions which are counted as 495 Aedes mosquitoes and 260 Aedes larvae. First of all, adult mosquitoes were identified morphologically under microscopy, counted as 73.3% Ae. aegypti and 26.7% Ae. albopictus. Finally, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analyses that only 4 adults of Aedes mosquitoes and 10 Aedes larvae as naturally infected with dengue virus with possible source Ae. aegypti. This study basically uncovered the presence of virus in different species of mosquitoes in southern regions of Pakistan. The present study will also give us an insight for vector control programs of dengue virus in the affected area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussain Mubbashir
- Vector Borne Diseases Lab, Department of Microbiology, Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 26000 Pakistan
| | - Shahzad Munir
- Faculty of Plant Protection, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China
| | - Rahim Kashif
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering Drug and Biotechnology, Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Haider Bashir Nawaz
- Faculty of Plant Protection, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China
| | - Basit Abdul
- Vector Borne Diseases Lab, Department of Microbiology, Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 26000 Pakistan
| | - Khattak Baharullah
- Vector Borne Diseases Lab, Department of Microbiology, Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 26000 Pakistan
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Cloning and Expression of NS3 Gene of Pakistani Isolate Type 2 Dengue Virus. J Vet Res 2018; 62:17-26. [PMID: 29978123 PMCID: PMC5957457 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2018-0003] [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: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dengue is one of the major emerging viral diseases in the world, with dramatic increases in reported cases in the last few decades and annual worldwide occurrence of approximately 390 million infections. It is a highly important mosquito-vectored disease and is a problem in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. The major aim of this study was to clone and express the dengue NS3 gene, in service to its therapeutic importance for the development of stable cell lines. Material and Methods Blood samples from dengue fever (DF) patients were collected and subjected to PCR amplification of the NS3 gene of dengue virus serotype-2 (DENV-2). The NS3 gene was amplified using gene specific primers and cloned in the TA cloning vectors. Results The gene was successfully expressed in mammalian expression vector pcDNA3.1. The current finding was different from a previously reported DENV-2 strain replicon constructed in different cells, in which the whole genetic material of the virus was used instead of an active protease gene, and which gave a low yield of replicon expressing cells. Conclusion Recombinant NS3 could be used to produce an antibody that is possibly helpful for developing a single step diagnostic assay to detect the dengue virus NS3 antigen in sera of dengue patients.
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Khan J, Khan I, Ghaffar A, Khalid B. Epidemiological trends and risk factors associated with dengue disease in Pakistan (1980-2014): a systematic literature search and analysis. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:745. [PMID: 29907109 PMCID: PMC6003098 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5676-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dengue is becoming more common in Pakistan with its alarming spreading rate. A historical review needs to be carried out to find the root causes of dengue dynamics, the factors responsible for its spread and lastly to formulate future strategies for its control. METHODS We searched (January, 2015) all the published literature between 1980 and 2014 to determine spread/burden of dengue disease in Pakistan. RESULTS A total of 81 reports were identified, showing high numbers of dengue cases in 2010, 2011, and 2013. The tendency of dengue to occur in younger than in older age groups was evident throughout the survey period and all four serotypes were recorded, with DENV1 the least common. Most dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) cases fell in the 20-45 years age range. High frequencies tended to be observed first in the Southern coastal region characterized by mild winters and humid warm summers and then the disease progressed towards the lowland areas of the Indus plain with cool winters, hot summers and monsoon rainfall. Based on this survey, new risk maps and infection estimates were identified reflecting public health burden imposed by dengue at the national level. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that dengue is common in the three provinces of Pakistan, i.e., Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Punjab and Sindh. Based on the literature review as well as on our study analysis the current expansion of dengue seems multifactorial and may include climate change, virus evolution, and societal factors such as rapid urbanization, population growth and development, socioeconomic factors, as well as global travel and trade. Due to inadequate remedial strategies, effective vector control measures are essential to target the dengue vector mosquito where high levels of human-vector contact occur. The known social, economic, and disease burden of dengue is alarming globally and it is evident that the wider impact of this disease is grossly underestimated. An international multi-sectoral response, outlined in the WHO Global Strategy for Dengue Prevention and Control, 2012-2020, is now essential to reduce the significant influence of this disease in Dengue endemic areas. Overall gaps were identified in knowledge around seroprevalence, dengue incidence, vector control, genotype evolution and age-stratified serotype circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jehangir Khan
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080 Guangdong China
- Sun Yat-sen University-Michigan State University Joint Center of Vector Control for Tropical Diseases, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080 Guangdong China
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM), Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases and Control of the Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080 China
| | - Inamullah Khan
- Nuclear Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA), Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
| | - Abdul Ghaffar
- Department of Meteorology, COMSATS University (CUI), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Bushra Khalid
- Evolution and Ecology Program, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, Laxenburg, Austria
- Earth System Physics, The Abdus Salam, International Centre for Theoretical Physics, Trieste, Italy
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Antiviral Activity of Thiazolide Derivatives Against Dengue Virus in Huh-7 Cell Line. Jundishapur J Microbiol 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/jjm.62467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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Iqtadar S, Akbar N, Huma N, Randhawa FA. Profile of hepatic involvement in dengue infections in adult Pakistani population. Pak J Med Sci 2017; 33:963-967. [PMID: 29067074 PMCID: PMC5648973 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.334.13026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the range of hepatic involvement in dengue infections by assessing clinical and biochemical profile of adult dengue infected patients. METHODS Serologically confirmed 220 adult cases of dengue infections admitted to Mayo hospital from June 2013 to November 2013 were classified as having dengue fever, dengue haemorragic fever and dengue shock syndrome. The frequency and range of bilirubin, liver enzymes derangement and presence of liver enlargement in each group was calculated and further stratified according to age and gender. Patients with positive viral serology, chronic liver disease, malaria and typhoid were excluded from the study. RESULTS About 60% of DHF patients had hepatomegaly compared to 40% of DF patients. Liver dysfunction was more common in DF compared to DHF (38.15 vs 18.6%). Hyperbilirubinemia was noted in 40 (18.2%) patients, 28 (12.7%) in DF and 12(5.5%) in DHF. The mean serum bilirubin was higher in DHF [0.87+0.33] compared to DF [0.74+0.27]. Bilirubin was higher in male patients and in younger (<20 years) age group. ALT was elevated more frequently in male patients in age group of 31-40 years and in DF patients as compared to DHF [72(32.7% vs 40(18.2%)]. The mean serum ALT level was 103.7 U/l in DHF and 69.2U/l in DF. AST was raised in all DHF patients as compared to DF in which 40% patients had normal AST levels. Alkaline Phosphate was high in all DHF patients with a mean of 278.7. It was raised in most of the DF patients as well and majority of patients were in age group of 31-40 years. CONCLUSION Liver involvement is very common in dengue infections and is not limited to elevation of transaminases only. Bilirubin and Alkaline phosphatase are also raised in considerable number of patients. Therefore in adults with fever, jaundice, hepatomegaly and altered liver function tests, the diagnosis of dengue infection should be strongly considered in areas where dengue infection is endemic. List of abbreviations:DF: Dengue Fever DHF: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever DSS: Dengue Shock Syndrome DIC: Disseminated intravascular coagulation ALT: Alanine transaminase AST: Aspartate aminotransferase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somia Iqtadar
- Dr. Somia Iqtadar, FCPS (Medicine). Associate Professor of Medicine. King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Nabeel Akbar
- Dr. Nabeel Akbar, MBBS. Postgraduate Resident of Cardiology. Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Naima Huma
- Dr. Naima Huma, MBBS. Postgraduate Resident of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Fawad Ahmad Randhawa
- Dr. Fawad Ahmad Randhawa, FCPS (Medicine). Assistant Professor of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
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Khalil AT, Ali M, Tanveer F, Ovais M, Idrees M, Shinwari ZK, Hollenbeck JE. Emerging Viral Infections in Pakistan: Issues, Concerns, and Future Prospects. Health Secur 2017. [DOI: 10.1089/hs.2016.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
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Seroprevalence and epidemiological status of dengue viral infection in remote areas of Pakistan. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF TROPICAL DISEASE 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s2222-1808(16)61128-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Dengue fever virus in Pakistan: effects of seasonal pattern and temperature change on distribution of vector and virus. Rev Med Virol 2016; 27. [DOI: 10.1002/rmv.1899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Tahir U, Khan UH, Zubair MS, Bahar-E-Mustafa. Wolbachia pipientis: A potential candidate for combating and eradicating dengue epidemics in Pakistan. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2015; 8:989-998. [PMID: 26706669 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjtm.2015.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue virus syndrome is an emerging global health challenge which is endemic in tropical countries like Pakistan. In recent years dengue incidences have increased considerably in different areas of Pakistan with more sever impacts on urban and peri-urban populations. This review is an effort to highlight the changing epidemiology of dengue fever, role of Government of Pakistan in disease management and control using preventive and community based approaches in the region. Moreover, there is an emphasis on application of Wolbachia as novel, inexpensive and environmentally benign candidate for control and eradication of dengue transmitting vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uruj Tahir
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
| | - Umair Hassan Khan
- Department of Microbiology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Sub-Campus Toba Tek Singh, Pakistan
| | | | - Bahar-E-Mustafa
- Department of Microbiology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Sub-Campus Toba Tek Singh, Pakistan
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Parkash O, Shueb RH. Diagnosis of Dengue Infection Using Conventional and Biosensor Based Techniques. Viruses 2015; 7:5410-27. [PMID: 26492265 PMCID: PMC4632385 DOI: 10.3390/v7102877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Revised: 08/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue is an arthropod-borne viral disease caused by four antigenically different serotypes of dengue virus. This disease is considered as a major public health concern around the world. Currently, there is no licensed vaccine or antiviral drug available for the prevention and treatment of dengue disease. Moreover, clinical features of dengue are indistinguishable from other infectious diseases such as malaria, chikungunya, rickettsia and leptospira. Therefore, prompt and accurate laboratory diagnostic test is urgently required for disease confirmation and patient triage. The traditional diagnostic techniques for the dengue virus are viral detection in cell culture, serological testing, and RNA amplification using reverse transcriptase PCR. This paper discusses the conventional laboratory methods used for the diagnosis of dengue during the acute and convalescent phase and highlights the advantages and limitations of these routine laboratory tests. Subsequently, the biosensor based assays developed using various transducers for the detection of dengue are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Om Parkash
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
| | - Rafidah Hanim Shueb
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
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Computational prediction and analysis of envelop glycoprotein epitopes of DENV-2 and DENV-3 Pakistani isolates: a first step towards Dengue vaccine development. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0119854. [PMID: 25775090 PMCID: PMC4361635 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0119854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Dengue fever of tropics is a mosquito transmitted devastating disease caused by dengue virus (DENV). There is no effective vaccine available, so far, against any of its four serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4). There is a need for the development of preventive and therapeutic vaccines against DENV to decrease the prevalence of dengue fever, especially in Pakistan. In this research, linear and conformational B-cell epitopes of envelope glycoprotein of DENV-2 and DENV-3 (the most prevalent serotypes in Pakistan) were predicted. We used Kolaskar and Tongaonkar method for linear epitope prediction, Emini’s method for surface accessibility prediction and Karplus and Schulz’s algorithm for flexibility determination. To propose three dimensional epitopes, the E proteins for both serotypes were homology modeled by using Phyre2 V 2.0 server, and ElliPro was used for the prediction of surface epitopes on their globular structure. Total 21 and 19 linear epitopes were predicted for DENV-2 and DENV-3 Pakistani isolates respectively. Whereas, 5 and 4 discontinuous epitopes were proposed for DENV-2 and DENV-3 Pakistani isolates respectively. Moreover, the values of surface accessibility, flexibility and solvent-accessibility can be helpful in analyzing vaccines against DENV-2 and DENV-3. In conclusion, the proposed continuous and discontinuous antigenic peptides can be valuable candidates for diagnostic and therapeutics of DENV.
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Naqvi S, Kazmi S, Shaikh S, Akram M. Evaluation of Prevalence Patterns of Dengue Fever in Lahore District through Geo-Spatial Techniques. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.6000/1927-5129.2015.11.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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The relationship between family functioning and self-esteem in female high school students of Isfahan, Iran, in 2013-2014. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY RESEARCH 2015; 20:371-7. [PMID: 26120339 PMCID: PMC4462064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the most critical periods of the life of a person is adolescence. During this period, individuals face many problems such as low self-esteem. Self-esteem can be influenced by many factors such as school, friends, and inner personality, but it seems that the family has a crucial role in shaping self-esteem. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the relationship between family functioning and self-esteem in female high school students in Isfahan, Iran. MATERIALS AND METHODS This descriptive correlational study was performed with multi-stage random sampling method on 237 female high school students who met the inclusion criteria of the study. The data collection tools included Bloom's Family Functioning Scale and Pop's self-esteem questionnaire. The data obtained from the questionnaires were analyzed through SPSS software. RESULTS The results showed that the majority of the samples examined had moderate level self-esteem (48.5%) and family function (56.5%). There was a significant correlation between the dimensions of family functioning and areas of self-esteem (except for lack of independence, and public, academic, and physical self-esteem). In addition, the correlation between family aspirations and self-esteem (r = 0.636, P < 0.01) was higher than other variables. Moreover, across the dimensions of family functioning, a significant negative correlation was found between the lack of independence and the family self-esteem subscale. CONCLUSIONS The results of the study showed that adolescents' self-esteem is highly correlated with their family's performance. Therefore, to enhance the self-esteem of adolescents, family-centered empowerment programs should be planned and implemented by health service providers, especially nurses, in order to improve and enhance family functioning.
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Abstract
This article aims at exploring and analyzing reasons for the spread of dengue outbreak in Lahore, Pakistan, in 2011. This led to about 300 deaths. Also, this study intends to review the appropriateness of government response in managing the dengue outbreak. The contributing factors in the spread of dengue disease included, among others, the demographic structure of Lahore district, environmental conditions, and urbanization and slum development with lack of health facilities. Furthermore, managerial and coordination failures at the level of city district government aggravated the situation. The governance failure was manifested by the non-framing of dengue disease as a public policy concern, especially when it had affected almost 4,500 persons leading to three deaths in the year 2010. There were coordination failures with tertiary level health institutions, and the city government was unprepared. Concrete and effective steps were taken when chief minister of the Punjab province intervened personally. The strategy adopted by the provincial government was so successful that in the year 2012, there were only 252 dengue cases and no deaths were reported. However, there is still need to improve coordination at the city government level and to institute a preventive regime to manage an outbreak in the future.
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Evaluation of efficacy of various immunochromatographic rapid tests for dengue diagnosis. Pak J Med Sci 2014; 30:166-71. [PMID: 24639854 PMCID: PMC3955565 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.301.4173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The immunochromatographic rapid tests facilitate the early diagnosis of dengue by providing evidence of the presence of virus specific proteins (antigens/ antibody) in human blood. Many products for rapid dengue diagnosis are available in the market; the performance of few selected products was evaluated and compared with enzyme linked immuno sorbent assays (ELISA). Methods: Sera from a large number of patients (n=184) admitted to National Institute of Blood Diseases & Bone Marrow Transplantation (NIBD) were used to determine the efficiency of non-structural (NS) 1, IgA, IgG and IgM based rapid test devices for dengue diagnosis. Results: The dengue NS1 antigen based device was least efficient while among the antibody based devices the dengue IgA rapid test (RDT) was comparatively better (specificity: 80.95%; sensitivity: 85.21%). This device could detect both primary and secondary dengue infection and was found to be the most sensitive device at all point of sample collection. Conclusion: The dengue IgA RDT could be a cost effective and efficient rapid test device for timely dengue diagnosis at all levels of healthcare settings.
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Bota R, Ahmed M, Jamali MS, Aziz A. Knowledge, attitude and perception regarding dengue fever among university students of interior Sindh. J Infect Public Health 2014; 7:218-23. [PMID: 24613408 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2013.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2013] [Revised: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 11/08/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dengue is among the most common mosquito-borne viral diseases that affect humans. It has now become a major public health dilemma, annually affecting approximately 50-100 million people worldwide. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and perception of dengue fever among university students of interior Sindh. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted during the period of April-June 2012. Four hundred and fifty students were surveyed. A structured pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 17. RESULTS Overall, 94.6% of participants (43.3% male and 56.7% female, p-value 0.03) reported that they had heard about dengue, and 58.6% of participants reported "Aedes mosquito" as a vector of dengue virus, with gender difference (37.5% male vs 62.5% females with p-value <0.001). The Aedes mosquito is "A small dark mosquito having white stripes on its leg" was reported by 54.8% students. The Aedes mosquito breeds in "Stagnant clean water" was reported by 47.6% (male 40.2% vs female 59.8%, p-value 0.003) and usually bites at "Dusk" by 44.7% and at "Dawn" by 51%. Regarding symptoms of dengue fever, "Prolonged high fever" was reported by 52.6%, "Muscular pain" by 39.6% (p-value 0.009), "Bleeding" by 41.3% (p-value 0.001) and "Headache, nausea and vomiting" by 44.7% (p-value 0.001). CONCLUSION Approximately half of the participants in our study were unable to correctly identify the Aedes mosquito as a transmission source (41.4%), its appearance (45.2%), its breeding place (52.4%) and its bite time (52.2%). The enhancement of knowledge through different educational programs is needed to increase awareness of dengue fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaqat Bota
- Dow University of Health Sciences, Dow Medical College, Pakistan.
| | - Mushtaq Ahmed
- Dow University of Health Sciences, Dow Medical College, Pakistan
| | | | - Adnan Aziz
- Civil Hospital Karachi, Surgery-1, Pakistan
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Koo C, Nasir A, Hapuarachchi HC, Lee KS, Hasan Z, Ng LC, Khan E. Evolution and heterogeneity of multiple serotypes of Dengue virus in Pakistan, 2006-2011. Virol J 2013; 10:275. [PMID: 24007412 PMCID: PMC3844417 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-10-275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Even though dengue has been recognized as one of the major public health threats in Pakistan, the understanding of its molecular epidemiology is still limited. The genotypic diversity of Dengue virus (DENV) serotypes involved in dengue outbreaks since 2005 in Pakistan is not well studied. Here, we investigated the origin, diversity, genetic relationships and geographic distribution of DENV to understand virus evolution during the recent expansion of dengue in Pakistan. Methods The study included 200 sera obtained from dengue-suspected patients from 2006 to 2011. DENV infection was confirmed in 94 (47%) sera by a polymerase chain reaction assay. These included 36 (38.3%) DENV-2, 57 DENV-3 (60.6%) and 1 DENV-4 (1.1%) cases. Sequences of 13 whole genomes (6 DENV-2, 6 DENV-3 and 1 DENV-4) and 49 envelope genes (26 DENV-2, 22 DENV-3 and 1 DENV-4) were analysed to determine the origin, phylogeny, diversity and selection pressure during virus evolution. Results DENV-2, DENV-3 and DENV-4 in Pakistan from 2006 to 2011 shared 98.5-99.6% nucleotide and 99.3-99.9% amino acid similarity with those circulated in the Indian subcontinent during the last decade. Nevertheless, Pakistan DENV-2 and DENV-3 strains formed distinct clades characterized by amino acid signatures of NS2A-I116T + NS5-K861R and NS3-K590R + NS5-S895L respectively. Each clade consisted of a heterogenous virus population that circulated in Southern (2006–2009) and Northern Pakistan (2011). Conclusions DENV-2, DENV-3 and DENV-4 that circulated during 2006–2011 are likely to have first introduced via the southern route of Pakistan. Both DENV-2 and DENV-3 have undergone in-situ evolution to generate heterogenous populations, possibly driven by sustained local DENV transmission during 2006–2011 periods. While both DENV-2 and DENV-3 continued to circulate in Southern Pakistan until 2009, DENV-2 has spread in a Northern direction to establish in Punjab Province, which experienced a massive dengue outbreak in 2011.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Koo
- Environmental Health Institute, National Environment Agency, [as part of its work as a] WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research of Arbovirus and their Associated Vectors, 11, Biopolis Way, #06-05-08, 138667 Singapore, Singapore.
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Hashmi AM, Butt Z, Idrees Z, Niazi M, Yousaf Z, Haider SF, Bhatti MR. Anxiety and depression symptoms in patients with dengue fever and their correlation with symptom severity. Int J Psychiatry Med 2013; 44:199-210. [PMID: 23586276 DOI: 10.2190/pm.44.3.b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms in patients with dengue and to examine their correlation with symptom severity. METHODS In this cross sectional study, 531 consecutive patients who met the World Health Organization criteria for dengue fever admitted to Mayo Hospital, Lahore between September and November 2011 were administered the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). In addition to the HADS, the severity of their symptoms, like headache, myalgias/arthralgias, fever, and retro/periorbital pain, was assessed on a 3-point scale (mild, moderate, and severe). RESULTS About 60% of the patients in our study met the criteria for anxiety and 62.2% of the patients met criteria for depression. Severity of fever, headache, myalgias and arthralgias, and retro/periorbital pain was positively correlated with both anxiety (Correlation coefficients: 0.148, 0.247, 0.184, 0.184 respectively and P < 0.01 for all) and depression scores (Correlation coefficients: 0.098, 0.154, 0.131, 0.125 respectively and P value < 0.01 for all). The strongest correlation was found between severity of headache and scores for both anxiety and depression. Both mean anxiety and depression scores were significantly higher in patients with platelet count below median (30,000/mm3) than in patients with platelet count above median (9.1 +/- 4.7 vs 8.2 +/- 4.7, P < 0.03, and 9.5 +/- 4.5 vs 8.5 +/- 4.5, P < 0.01, respectively). CONCLUSION A majority of patients with dengue have anxiety and depression symptoms. Psychiatric evaluation should be done in all Dengue patients so timely treatment can be initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali M Hashmi
- King Edward Medical University/Mayo Hospital, Pakistan.
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