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Sebaa S, Behnke JM, Labed A, Abu-Madi MA. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Associated Risk Factors among Pregnant Women in Algeria. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2024; 110:1137-1144. [PMID: 38688274 PMCID: PMC11154063 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite affecting all warm-blooded vertebrates, including humans. Infections in humans can lead to severe clinical manifestations in pregnant women and immunocompromised patients. The aim of the present study was to assess seroprevalence of T. gondii infection and to identify the associated risk factors among pregnant women from southern Algeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2021 to May 2022 among 1,345 pregnant women. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on risk factors associated with infection. Participants were screened for anti T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies using the enzyme-linked fluorescent assay. The overall IgG and IgM seroprevalence was 13.6% and 0.89%, respectively. A significant association was found between seroprevalence of anti T. gondii IgG and history of spontaneous abortion (P = 0.016). Moreover, an increasing trend of seroprevalence was detected in the autumnal season (P = 0.030), and eating raw or undercooked meat was found to be significantly associated with anti-T. gondii IgM seropositivity (P = 0.002). Multivariate analysis showed that women who had experienced spontaneous abortion, regularly ate undercooked meat, and used bottled water in summer were more likely to contract infection with T. gondii. The majority (86.4%) of the studied pregnant women were serologically negative for toxoplasmosis and hence were susceptible to primary acute infection during pregnancy and possible fetal anomalies. Therefore, health education and awareness of the disease and its transmission to women, especially during pregnancy, is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumia Sebaa
- Laboratory of Exploration and Valorization of Steppic Ecosystems, Faculty SNV, University of Ziane Achour, Djelfa, Algeria
| | - Jerzy M. Behnke
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Amina Labed
- Department of Ecology and Environment, University Batna 2, Batna, Algeria
| | - Marawan A. Abu-Madi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Biomedical Research Centre, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Helminth parasites of the wood mouse Apodemus sylvaticus in Southern England: levels of infection, species richness and interactions between species. J Helminthol 2023; 97:e18. [PMID: 36747489 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x22000876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Helminth parasites of the wood mouse, Apodemus sylvaticus (n = 440), were surveyed in five localities, comprising woodland and grassland sites, in Southern England. Seven species of helminths were identified, among which Heligmosomoides polygyrus and Syphacia stroma were dominant (prevalence = 79.1% and 54.1%, respectively). Less common species were the trematode Corrigia vitta (14.8%), cestodes Catenotaenia pusilla (8.4%), Hydatigera taeniaeformis (4.1%) and Microsomacanthus crenata (3.4%) and the nematode Aonchotheca murissylvatici (0.2%). Differences in prevalences between localities were found for H. polygyrus, H. taeniaeformis and M. crenata and in abundances of H. polygyrus, S. stroma and C. vitta. Age-dependent increases in both parameters were identified among species and for helminth species richness. The only species to show significant host sex bias was S. stroma with prevalence values being higher in male mice. A number of different methods for exploiting raw data, and data corrected for significant confounding factors, were used to determine whether there were significant associations (prevalence) between species or quantitative interactions (abundance). The strongest evidence for a positive association was shown in concurrent infections with the trematode C. vitta and the cestode C. pusilla (significant in the whole dataset and evident in each locality, both sexes and both age classes). The abundance of C. pusilla was also higher in mice with C. vitta and vice versa. Overall, however, there was little support for associations or quantitative interactions between species, especially after data had been corrected for significant extrinsic/intrinsic factors, and we conclude that the helminths of wood mice in these communities are largely non-interactive and hence, perhaps better referred to as assemblages.
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Islam MM, Farag E, Hassan MM, Jaffrey SS, Atta M, Al-Marri AM, Al-Zeyara AM, Al Romaihi H, Bansal D, Mkhize-Kwitshana ZL. Rodent-borne zoonoses in Qatar: A possible One-Health framework for the intervention of future epidemic. One Health 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
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Arifin MA, Su Peng C, Baharudin UM, Baharudin MH, Rahim MAA, Rahim SSSA, Atil A, Madrim MF, Ahmad ZNBS, Mokti K, Ramdzan AR, Jeffree MS, Hassan MR. A Systematic Review of Tropical Disease Prevalence among Migrants. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.10211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Few studies have assessed the burden of tropical diseases among migrants into non-endemic countries.
AIM: This study aimed to systematically review the existing data of the prevalence of tropical diseases globally, including neglected tropical diseases globally.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The authors conducted a systematic review reporting prevalence (including seroprevalence) of tropical diseases following the PRISMA guidelines and based on the database from PUBMED, WoS, and PROQUEST. All the identified records were screened according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The selected articles’ quality was appraised using the mixed methods appraisal tool to ensure its quality.
RESULTS: Overall, 19 studies conducted in 13 countries published between the year 2017–2020 were included in the study. Based on the thematic analysis, two themes (type of organism) and 11 sub-themes (disease) were used. The prevalence of tropical diseases among migrants ranged from 0.2 to 31% for malaria; 3–20% for Chagas Disease; 3.2–3.5% for Giardiasis; 31.7–57.4% for Toxoplasmosis; 0.1–51%, for Schistosomiasis; 0.1–15.8%, for Strongyloidiasis; 0.3–3.8% for Trichuriasis; 0.2–0.9% for Ascariasis; 6.4–9.7% for Toxocariasis; 0.3% for Loiasis; and 0.5% for Filariasis. All migrants warrant thorough screening and testing, based on the country of origin of their last visit. Routine screening and follow-up may reduce the re-emergence of tropical disease in non-endemic countries.
CONCLUSION: Multiple approaches in managing social and health issues among migrants are vital to secure healthy labor forces for the country’s economy and development. Public health sectors should implement strategic promotive, preventive, and curative programs targeted to this group.
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Sebaa S, Behnke JM, Baroudi D, Hakem A, Abu-Madi MA. Prevalence and risk factors of intestinal protozoan infection among symptomatic and asymptomatic populations in rural and urban areas of southern Algeria. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:888. [PMID: 34461837 PMCID: PMC8406907 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06615-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal parasitic infections are amongst the most common infections worldwide and have been identified as one of the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality among disadvantaged populations. This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections and to identify the significant risk factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections in Laghouat province, Southern Algeria. METHODS A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 623 symptomatic and 1654 asymptomatic subjects. Structured questionnaires were used to identify environmental, socio demographic and behavioral factors. Stool specimens were collected and examined using direct wet mount, formalin-ether concentration, xenic in vitro culture and staining methods. RESULTS A highly significant difference of prevalence was found between symptomatic (82.3%) and asymptomatic subjects (14.9%), with the majority attributable to protozoan infection. The most common species in the symptomatic subjects were Blastocystis spp. (43.8%), E. histolytica/dispar (25.4%) and Giardia intestinalis (14.6%) and more rarely Enterobius vermicularis (02.1%), Teania spp. (0.6%) and Trichuris trichiura (0.2%), while in asymptomatic population Blastocystis spp. (8%), Entamoeba coli (3.3%) and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (2.5%) were the most common parasites detected with no case of helminth infection. Multivariate log-linear analysis showed that contact with animals was the main risk factor for transmission of these protozoa in both populations. Furthermore, living in rural areas was significantly associated with combined protozoan infection in the asymptomatic population, whereas, in the symptomatic population an increasing trend of protozoan infection was detected in the hot season. In addition, Blastocystis spp. and G. intestinalis infection were found to be associated with host sex and contact with animals across the study period. CONCLUSIONS Based on these results, several strategies are recommended in order to effectively reduce these infections including good animal husbandry practices, health education focused on good personal hygiene practices and adequate sanitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumia Sebaa
- Laboratory of Exploration and Valorization of Steppic Ecosystems, Faculty SNV, University of Ziane Achour, 17000, Djelfa, Algeria
| | - Jerzy M Behnke
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Djamel Baroudi
- Food Hygiene Laboratory Quality Analysis System, National Veterinary School, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Ahcene Hakem
- Laboratory of Exploration and Valorization of Steppic Ecosystems, Faculty SNV, University of Ziane Achour, 17000, Djelfa, Algeria.,Research Center in Agropastoralism, Moudjbara Road, 17000, Djelfa, Algeria
| | - Marawan A Abu-Madi
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU-Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Islam MM, Farag E, Mahmoudi A, Hassan MM, Mostafavi E, Enan KA, Al-Romaihi H, Atta M, El Hussein ARM, Mkhize-Kwitshana Z. Rodent-Related Zoonotic Pathogens at the Human-Animal-Environment Interface in Qatar: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115928. [PMID: 34073025 PMCID: PMC8198466 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rodents are one of the most diversified terrestrial mammals, and they perform several beneficial activities in nature. These animals are also important as carriers of many pathogens with public health importance. The current systematic review was conducted to formulate a true depiction of rodent-related zoonoses in Qatar. Following systematic searches on PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science and a screening process, a total of 94 published articles were selected and studied. The studied articles reported 23 rodent-related zoonotic pathogens that include nine bacterial, eleven parasitic, and three viral pathogens, from which the frequently reported pathogens were Mycobacterium tuberculosis (32 reports), Escherichia coli (23), and Salmonella spp. (16). The possible pathway of entry of the rodent-borne pathogens can be the land port, seaports, and airport of Qatar through carrier humans and animals, contaminated food, and agricultural products. The pathogens can be conserved internally by rodents, pets, and livestock; by agricultural production systems; and by food marketing chains. The overall estimated pooled prevalence of the pathogens among the human population was 4.27% (95%CI: 4.03–4.51%; p < 0.001) with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 99.50%). The top three highest prevalent pathogens were M.tuberculosis (30.90%; 22.75–39.04%; p < 0.001; I2 = 99.70%) followed by Toxoplasma gondii (21.93%; 6.23–37.61%; p < 0.001; I2 = 99.30%) and hepatitis E virus (18.29%; 11.72–24.86%; p < 0.001; I2 = 96.70%). However, there is a knowledge gap about the listed pathogens regarding the occurrence, transmission pathways, and rodent role in transmission dynamics at the human–animal–environment interface in Qatar. Further studies are required to explore the role of rodents in spreading zoonotic pathogens through the One Health framework, consisting of zoologists, ecologists, microbiologists, entomologists, veterinarians, and public health experts in this country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Mazharul Islam
- Department of Animal Resources, Ministry of Municipality and Environment, Doha P.O. Box 35081, Qatar; (K.A.E.), (M.A.)
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa
- Correspondence: or (M.M.I.); (E.F.); Tel.: +974-660-64382 (M.M.I.); +974-440-70396 (E.F.)
| | - Elmoubashar Farag
- Ministry of Public Health, Doha P.O. Box 42, Qatar;
- Correspondence: or (M.M.I.); (E.F.); Tel.: +974-660-64382 (M.M.I.); +974-440-70396 (E.F.)
| | - Ahmad Mahmoudi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Urmia University, Urmia 5756151818, Iran;
| | - Mohammad Mahmudul Hassan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram 4225, Bangladesh;
| | - Ehsan Mostafavi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran;
- National Reference Laboratory for Plague, Tularemia and Q Fever, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Akanlu, Kabudar Ahang, Hamadan 6556153145, Iran
| | - Khalid A. Enan
- Department of Animal Resources, Ministry of Municipality and Environment, Doha P.O. Box 35081, Qatar; (K.A.E.), (M.A.)
- Department of Virology, Central Laboratory, The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Khartum 7099, Sudan;
| | | | - Muzzamil Atta
- Department of Animal Resources, Ministry of Municipality and Environment, Doha P.O. Box 35081, Qatar; (K.A.E.), (M.A.)
- College of Animal Production, Bahri University, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
| | - Abdel Rahim M. El Hussein
- Department of Virology, Central Laboratory, The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Khartum 7099, Sudan;
| | - Zilungile Mkhize-Kwitshana
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering & Science, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa;
- South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
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Islam MM, Farag E, Hassan MM, Bansal D, Awaidy SA, Abubakar A, Al-Rumaihi H, Mkhize-Kwitshana Z. Helminth Parasites among Rodents in the Middle East Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E2342. [PMID: 33317021 PMCID: PMC7764038 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Rodents can be a source of zoonotic helminths in the Middle East and also in other parts of the world. The current systematic review aimed to provide baseline data on rodent helminths to recognize the threats of helminth parasites on public health in the Middle East region. Following a systematic search on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, a total of 65 research studies on rodent cestodes, nematodes, and trematodes, which were conducted in the countries of the Middle East, were analyzed. The study identified 44 rodent species from which Mus musculus, Rattus norvegicus, and Rattus rattus were most common (63%) and recognized as the primary rodent hosts for helminth infestation in this region. Cestodes were the most frequently reported (n = 50), followed by nematodes (49), and trematodes (14). The random effect meta-analysis showed that the pooled prevalence of cestode (57.66%, 95%CI: 34.63-80.70, l2% = 85.6, p < 0.001) was higher in Saudi Arabia, followed by nematode (56.24%, 95%CI: 11.40-101.1, l2% = 96.7, p < 0.001) in Turkey, and trematode (15.83%, 95%CI: 6.25-25.1, l2% = 98.5, p < 0.001) in Egypt. According to the overall prevalence estimates of individual studies, nematodes were higher (32.71%, 95%CI: 24.89-40.54, l2% = 98.6, p < 0.001) followed by cestodes (24.88%, 95%CI: 19.99-29.77, l2% = 94.9, p < 0.001) and trematodes (10.17%, 95%CI: 6.7-13.65, l2% = 98.3, p < 0.001) in the rodents of the Middle East countries. The review detected 22 species of helminths, which have zoonotic importance. The most frequent helminths were Capillaria hepatica, Hymenolepis diminuta, Hymenolepis nana, and Cysticercus fasciolaris. There was no report of rodent-helminths from Bahrain, Jordan, Lebanon, Oman, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Furthermore, there is an information gap on rodent helminths at the humans-animal interface level in Middle East countries. Through the One Health approach and countrywide detailed studies on rodent-related helminths along with their impact on public health, the rodent control program should be conducted in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Mazharul Islam
- Department of Animal Resources, Ministry of Municipality and Environment, Doha, P.O. Box 35081, Qatar
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Elmoubashar Farag
- Ministry of Public Health, Doha, P.O. Box 42, Qatar; (D.B.); (H.A.-R.)
| | - Mohammad Mahmudul Hassan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chattogram 4225, Bangladesh;
| | - Devendra Bansal
- Ministry of Public Health, Doha, P.O. Box 42, Qatar; (D.B.); (H.A.-R.)
| | | | - Abdinasir Abubakar
- Infectious Hazard Preparedness (IHP) Unit, WHO Health Emergencies Department (WHE), World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo 11371, Egypt;
| | - Hamad Al-Rumaihi
- Ministry of Public Health, Doha, P.O. Box 42, Qatar; (D.B.); (H.A.-R.)
| | - Zilungile Mkhize-Kwitshana
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering & Science, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban 40000, South Africa;
- South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
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Paudyal P, Kulasabanathan K, Cassell JA, Memon A, Simkhada P, Wasti SP. Health and well-being issues of Nepalese migrant workers in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Malaysia: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e038439. [PMID: 33109656 PMCID: PMC7592279 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To summarise the evidence on health and well-being of Nepalese migrant workers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Malaysia. DESIGN Systematic review. DATA SOURCES EMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus and Global Health databases. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Studies were eligible if they: (1) included Nepalese migrant workers aged 18 or older working in the GCC countries or Malaysia or returnee migrant workers from these countries; (2) were primary studies that investigated health and well-being status/issues; and (3) were published in English language before 8 May 2020. STUDY APPRAISAL All included studies were critically appraised using Joanna Briggs Institute study specific tools. RESULTS A total of 33 studies were eligible for inclusion; 12 studies were conducted in Qatar, 8 in Malaysia, 9 in Nepal, 2 in Saudi Arabia and 1 each in UAE and Kuwait. In majority of the studies, there was a lack of disaggregated data on demographic characteristics of Nepalese migrant workers. Nearly half of the studies (n=16) scored as 'high' quality and the rest (n=17) as 'moderate' quality. Five key health and well-being related issues were identified in this population: (1) occupational hazards; (2) sexual health; (3) mental health; (4) healthcare access and (5) infectious diseases. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the most comprehensive review of the health and well-being of Nepalese migrant workers in the GCC countries and Malaysia. This review highlights an urgent need to identify and implement policies and practices across Nepal and destination countries to protect the health and well-being of migrant workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyamvada Paudyal
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Kavian Kulasabanathan
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Jackie A Cassell
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Anjum Memon
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Padam Simkhada
- Department of Allied Health Professions, Sport and Exercise, Faculty of Health, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK
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Do we know how mosquito disease vectors will respond to climate change? Emerg Top Life Sci 2019; 3:115-132. [DOI: 10.1042/etls20180125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases are on the rise globally. Besides invasion processes and the increasing connectivity between distant regions through the trade of goods and human mobility, climate change is seen as an important driver for changing the likelihood of occurrence of vectors and diseases, respectively. Ectothermic insects respond directly to thermal conditions and thus we can expect them to follow climatic trends. However, a variety of species and different stages in their life cycles need to be considered. Here, we review the current literature in this field and disentangle the state of knowledge and the challenges and open questions for future research. The integration of diurnal temperature ranges in prospective experimental studies will strongly improve the knowledge of mosquitoes’ ecology and mosquito-borne disease transmission for temperate regions in particular. In addition, invasive mosquitoes are known to rapidly adapt to the climatic conditions, but the underlying processes are not yet fully understood.
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Alho AM, Lima C, Colella V, Madeira de Carvalho L, Otranto D, Cardoso L. Awareness of zoonotic diseases and parasite control practices: a survey of dog and cat owners in Qatar. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:133. [PMID: 29554937 PMCID: PMC5859551 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2720-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Qatar is one of the wealthiest and fastest growing economies in the world, experiencing a rapid increase in human and pet populations. Given the paucity of data on prophylactic measures against endo- and ectoparasites of pets in Qatar, as well as on the owners’ awareness of zoonotic diseases, a questionnaire was conducted. Methods From July to November 2017, 150 multiple-choice questionnaires were administered to dog and/or cat owners who attended two veterinary clinics in Doha. Results Only 54% (81/150) owners were aware of transmittable diseases between animals and humans. “Zoonosis/zoonotic disease(s)” was unknown for 88% (132/150) of the respondents and almost a quarter had no idea of transmission pathways associated with parasitic diseases. Thirteen owners (8.7%) reported to have suffered from zoonotic diseases (10 had dermatophytosis, 2 cat-scratch disease and 1 an unknown tick-borne disease) and 24.7% had dewormed themselves. Approximately 83% had their pets yearly vaccinated and 51% identified endo- and ectoparasites on their pets. Only 10% had their animal faeces tested for intestinal parasites as requested by a veterinarian. As for internal parasite control, only 19.3% dewormed their pets with the recommended treatment regimen (minimum quarterly); 52.7% (79/150) dewormed every 4 months to 1 year; 10% (15/150) without periodicity and 8% (12/150) had never done it. For external parasite control, only 16% (24/150) treated their pets with ectoparasiticides on a monthly basis; 44.7% (67/150) every 2 months to 1 year; 6.7% (10/150) without periodicity and 24.7% (37/150) had never done it. Approximately two thirds (63.3%) of pets were allowed to sleep in the owner’s bed and 60% to lick their owner’s face. Almost all pets were fed with dry/canned food, but 4.7% were fed with raw meat. Approximately 79.5% of dog owners collect their pet’s faeces from public areas. Conclusions These results highlight the need to raise pet owners’ awareness towards prophylactic measures to minimize the potential impact of zoonotic diseases on the health of both animals and humans in Qatar. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2720-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Alho
- CIISA, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Clara Lima
- Hospital Parkview Pet Center - Veterinary Clinic, Doha, Qatar
| | - Vito Colella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Domenico Otranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
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Boughattas S, Behnke JM, Al-Ansari K, Sharma A, Abu-Alainin W, Al-Thani A, Abu-Madi MA. Molecular Analysis of the Enteric Protozoa Associated with Acute Diarrhea in Hospitalized Children. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:343. [PMID: 28824878 PMCID: PMC5539595 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric diarrhea is a common cause of death among children under 5 years of age. In the current study, we investigated the frequency of intestinal parasites among 580 pediatric patients with chronic diarrhea. Parasitic protozoa (all species combined) were detected by molecular tools in 22.9% of the children and the most common parasite was Cryptosporidium spp. (15.1%). Blastocystis hominis was detected in 4.7%, Dientamoeba fragilis in 4%, Giardia duodenalis in 1.7%, and Entamoeba histolytica in 0.17%. Protozoan infections were observed among all regional groups, but prevalence was highest among Qatari subjects and during the winter season. Typing of Cryptosporidium spp. revealed a predominance of Cryptosporidium parvum in 92% of cases with mostly the IIdA20G1 subtype. Subtypes IIdA19G2, IIdA18G2, IIdA18G1, IIdA17G1, IIdA16G1, and IIdA14G1 were also detected. For Cryptosporidium hominis, IbA10G2 and IbA9G3 subtypes were identified. This study provides supplementary information for implementing prevention and control strategies to reduce the burden of these pediatric protozoan infections. Further analyses are required to better understand the local epidemiology and transmission of Cryptosporidium spp. in Qatar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Boughattas
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, Biomedical Research Center, Qatar UniversityDoha, Qatar
| | - Jerzy M Behnke
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University ParkNottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Khalid Al-Ansari
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Paediatric Emergency CenterDoha, Qatar
| | - Aarti Sharma
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, Biomedical Research Center, Qatar UniversityDoha, Qatar
| | - Wafa Abu-Alainin
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Hamad Medical CorporationDoha, Qatar
| | - Asma Al-Thani
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, Biomedical Research Center, Qatar UniversityDoha, Qatar
| | - Marawan A Abu-Madi
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, Biomedical Research Center, Qatar UniversityDoha, Qatar
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Seroprevalence of five neglected parasitic diseases among immigrants accessing five infectious and tropical diseases units in Italy: a cross-sectional study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2017; 23:335.e1-335.e5. [PMID: 28259548 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2017.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This multicentre cross-sectional study aims to estimate the prevalence of five neglected tropical diseases (Chagas disease, filariasis, schistosomiasis, strongyloidiasis and toxocariasis) among immigrants accessing health care facilities in five Italian cities (Bologna, Brescia, Florence, Rome, Verona). METHODS Individuals underwent a different set of serological tests, according to country of origin and presence of eosinophilia. Seropositive patients were treated and further followed up. RESULTS A total of 930 adult immigrants were enrolled: 477 men (51.3%), 445 women (47.9%), eight transgender (0.8%); median age was 37.81 years (range 18-80 years). Most of them had come from the African continent (405/930, 43.5%), the rest from East Europe, South America and Asia, and 9.6% (89/930) were diagnosed with at least one of the infections under study. Seroprevalence of each specific infection varied from 3.9% (7/180) for Chagas disease to 9.7% (11/113) for toxocariasis. Seropositive people were more likely to be 35-40 years old and male, and to come from South East Asia, sub-Saharan Africa or South America. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study confirm that neglected tropical diseases represent a substantial health problem among immigrants and highlight the need to address this emerging public health issue.
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Shahdoust S, Niyyati M, Haghighi A, Azargashb E, Khataminejad MR. Prevalence of intestinal parasites in referred individuals to the medical centers of Tonekabon city, Mazandaran province. GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY FROM BED TO BENCH 2016; 9:S75-S79. [PMID: 28224032 PMCID: PMC5310804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and their relation with socio-demographic data in referred individuals to the medical centers in Tonekabon, Mazandaran province, 2015. BACKGROUND Due to the climatic and ecological conditions in Mazandaran province, determination of the status of intestinal parasites among referred individuals to the medical centers of Tonekabon city can help researchers and healthcare services to prevent and/or control of parasitic infection in this region. METHODS This cross sectional study was conducted with randomized sampling in 2015 on 820 stool samples. Stool samples were assessed using direct slide smear with saline and Lugol, formalin-ether concentration, Ziehl-Neelsen and trichrome staining. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using specific primers was conducted for the samples suspected for Entamoeba histolytica/E.dispar and Cryptosporidium spp. One Cryptosporidium positive sample in this study was submitted for sequencing. RESULTS A total of 444 (54.1%) and 376 (45.9%) were male and female, respectively. Furthermore, 495 (60.4%) and 325 (39.6%) of participants had lived in the urban and rural areas, respectively. Overall, 222 participants (27.1%) were infected with at least one intestinal parasites. Prevalence of pathogenic protozoa (Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium spp.) and helminthes parasites was calculated as 3.1 and 1.2%, respectively. The most common intestinal parasites in this area were: Blastocystis 153 (18.7%), Endolymax nana 44 (5.4%), Entamoeba coli 40 (4.9%), Giardia lamblia 25 (3%), Iodamoeba butschlii 22 (2.7%), Ascaris 5 (0.6%), Enterobiusvermicularis 4 (0.5%), Trichostrongylus 1 (0.1%) and Cryptosporidium 1 (0.1%). By sequencing of the positive Cryptosporidium isolate using Gp60 gene, Cryptosporidium parvum subtype ΠaA16G2R1 was diagnosed. CONCLUSION Protozoa were more abundant than helminthes and Giardia lamblia was the most common protozoan pathogen. In this study, no significant association was found between the prevalence and the variables of socio-demographic data. Adequate knowledge and periodic surveillance of the prevalence of parasites and the socio-demographic variables that affect their frequency is important for effective control of parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Shahdoust
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Niyyati
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Haghighi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eznoallah Azargashb
- Department of Health and Social Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Abu-Madi MA, Behnke JM, Ismail A, Boughattas S. Assessing the burden of intestinal parasites affecting newly arrived immigrants in Qatar. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:619. [PMID: 27903290 PMCID: PMC5131437 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1906-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the last decades, the enormous influx of immigrants to industrialized countries has led to outbreaks of parasitic diseases, with enteric infections being amongst the most frequently encountered. In its strategy to control such infection, Qatar has established the Pre-Employment Certificate (PEC) program which requires medical inspection before arrival in Qatar and which is mandatory for immigrant workers travelling to the country. To assess the reliability of the PEC, we conducted a survey of intestinal parasites, based on examination of stool samples provided by immigrant workers (n = 2,486) recently arrived in Qatar. Results Overall prevalence of helminths was 7.0% and that of protozoa was 11.7%. Prevalence of combined helminths was highest among the western Asians and the highest prevalence of combined protozoan parasites was among workers from North to Saharan Africa. Analysis of temporal changes showed an increasing trend of protozoan infections over the investigated 3 years. A major contribution to this temporal change in prevalence came from Blastocystis hominis as well as from other protozoan species: Giardia duodenalis and Endolimax nana. Analysis of the temporal trend in species richness of the protozoan species showed a significant increase in the mean number of species harboured per subject across this period. Conclusion The increase of protozoan infections over recent years raises some concerns. It suggests that screening protocols for applicants for visas/work permits needs to be revised giving more careful attention to the intestinal protozoan infections that potential immigrants may harbor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marawan A Abu-Madi
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Jerzy M Behnke
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Ahmed Ismail
- Medical Commission, Ministry of Public Health, P.O. Box 42, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sonia Boughattas
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
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Abu-Madi MA, Behnke JM, Boughattas S, Al-Thani A, Doiphode SH. A decade of intestinal protozoan epidemiology among settled immigrants in Qatar. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:370. [PMID: 27496143 PMCID: PMC4974681 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-1728-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The World Health Organization estimates that about 3.5 billion people worldwide are affected by intestinal parasitic infections. Reports have already emphasized the role of immigrants in outbreaks of parasitic diseases in industrialized countries. With the mass influx of immigrants to Qatar, patent intestinal parasitic infections have been observed. Herein, the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections was analysed in 29,286 records of subjects referred for stool examination at the Hamad Medical Corporation over the course of a decade (2005 to 2014, inclusive). Results Overall prevalence of combined protozoan infections was 5.93 % but there were significant temporal trends, age and sex effects and those arising from the region of origin of the subjects. The most common protozoan was Blastocystis hominis (overall prevalence 3.45 %). Giardia duodenalis, Chilomastix mesnili, Entamoeba coli, Entamoeba hartmanni, Endolimax nana, Iodamoeba butschlii, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Cryptosporidium sp. and a single case of Isospora were also detected. The prevalence of combined protozoan infections, G. duodenalis and the non-pathogenic amoebae all declined significantly across the decade. That of B. hominis varied between years but showed no directional trend across years and there was no evidence that prevalence of E. histolyitica/dispar changed significantly. Protozoan infections were observed among all regional groups, but prevalence was higher among subjects from the Arabian Peninsula, Africa and Asia compared to those from the Eastern Mediterranean and Qatar. Prevalence was higher among male subjects in all cases, but age-prevalence profiles differed between the taxa. Conclusion These results offer optimism that prevalence will continue to decline in the years ahead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marawan A Abu-Madi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Biomedical Research Centre, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Jerzy M Behnke
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Sonia Boughattas
- Department of Biomedical Science, Biomedical Research Centre, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Asma Al-Thani
- Department of Biomedical Science, Biomedical Research Centre, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sanjay H Doiphode
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
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