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Ketor CE, Benneh CK, Mensah KB, Sarkodie E, Mensah A, Somuah SO, Akakpo S, Buabeng KO. Snakebites and Antisnake Venom Utilization in Ghana's Oti Region: A 6-Year Retrospective Study. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 2024:6692421. [PMID: 39140000 PMCID: PMC11321883 DOI: 10.1155/2024/6692421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Background: Snakebite is a global environmental and occupational hazard and a significant public health threat. In rural areas, snakebite cases often go unreported and undocumented due to the lack of access to well-structured healthcare facilities/infrastructure. In some cases, the need for antisnake venom (ASV) far outstrips supply, negatively affecting treatment outcomes. This study, therefore, assessed the epidemiological characteristics of snakebite cases, their management, and how antivenoms are utilised at the selected hospital in the Jasikan District Hospital. Methods: A 6-year retrospective study using secondary data from antivenom return forms (pharmacy records), clinical records (patient folders), the District Health Information Management System-2 (DHIMS-2) database, and consulting room registers was carried out in selected hospitals in the Jasikan District, Oti, Ghana. Results: The predominant symptom of snakebite was localised pain (71.4%). The snakebite commonly occurred at home (19%) and on farms (18%). Of the 98 snakebite cases, ASV was administered to 73 (74.5%) cases. Supportive treatment applied included prophylactic antitetanus immunoglobulin (ATS) (80.6%), prophylactic antibiotics (63%), corticosteroids (80.6%), and analgesics (63%). 95% (n = 94) of complete recoveries were recorded; three were discharged against medical advice, and one was mortality. The supply and use of antivenom were erratic throughout the months of high incidence, partly due to inconsistent availability at the Regional Medical Stores. The average ASV vials and hospital stay duration were 1.23 ± 0.86 vials and 2.67 ± 1.97 days, respectively. Although the peak of snakebites occurs in April, May, and June, the demand for antivenom in April and May exceeded supply. Conclusion: The outcome of most snakebite case management was appropriate, irrespective of inadequate ASV supply in certain months. The erratic antivenom supply should be aligned with seasonal and facility-use patterns to enhance regional snakebite management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courage Edem Ketor
- Pharmacy DepartmentJasikan District HospitalGhana Health Service, Jasikan, Ghana
- Department of Pharmacy PracticeSchool of PharmacyUniversity of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Charles Kwaku Benneh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy PracticeUlster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Kofi Boamah Mensah
- Department of Pharmacy PracticeFaculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Sarkodie
- University HospitalKwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Adelaide Mensah
- Department of PharmaceuticsSchool of PharmacyUniversity of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Samuel Owusu Somuah
- Department of Pharmacy PracticeSchool of PharmacyUniversity of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | | | - Kwame Ohene Buabeng
- Department of Pharmacy PracticeSchool of PharmacyUniversity of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
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Abebe AD, Assefa M, Belete D, Ferede G. Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and C Viruses and Their Associated Factors Among Military Personnel at Military Camps in Central Gondar, Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Infect Drug Resist 2024; 17:1407-1417. [PMID: 38628243 PMCID: PMC11019156 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s455562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, viral hepatitis is a leading cause of death and is highly prevalent in Ethiopia. Military personnel are more vulnerable to hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, and there are no data on such populations in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV infections and their associated factors among military personnel in military camps in Central Gondar, Ethiopia. Materials and Methods This institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted with 277 military personnel from April to August 2022 at military camps in Central Gondar, Ethiopia. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Sociodemographic and other relevant data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Five milliliters of venous blood were collected using a vacutainer tube and tested for hepatitis B surface antigens and anti-hepatitis C virus antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analyzed using STATA version 14 software and logistic regression models were used to determine the association between HBV/HCV infection and risk factors. Results Out of 277 participants, the overall seroprevalence of HBV and HCV infections was 19 (6.9%) and 9 (3.3%), respectively. The rate of HBV and HCV co-infection was 2 (0.7%). Having multiple sexual partners (p = 0.048), frequent alcohol use (p = 0.034), hospitalization (p = 0.014), and history of receiving injections from traditional practitioners (p = 0.040) were significant predictors of HBV infection. In contrast, a history of blood transfusion (p = 0.048) and sexually transmitted infections (p = 0.039) were significant risk factors for HCV infection. Conclusion and Recommendations An intermediate prevalence of HBV and HCV infections was observed among the military personnel. Continuous screening, adherence to healthcare service guidelines, and strengthening of vaccination are crucial for preventing HBV and HCV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayanaw Dinku Abebe
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Muluneh Assefa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Debaka Belete
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Getachew Ferede
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Ojianwuna CC, Enwemiwe VN, Egwunyenga AO, Agboro A, Owobu E. Sampling efficiency and screening of Aedes albopictus for yellow fever virus in Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Pan Afr Med J 2024; 47:120. [PMID: 38828420 PMCID: PMC11143074 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2024.47.120.39462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Aedes albopictus, like Aedes aegypti, is a virulent vector of arboviruses especially the well-documented spread of yellow fever around the world. Although yellow fever is prevalent in Nigeria, there is a paucity of information in the Niger Delta region on the distribution of Aedes mosquito vectors and molecular detection of the virus in infected mosquitoes. This study sampled Aedes mosquitoes around houses associated with farms from four communities (Otolokpo, Ute-Okpu, Umunede, and Ute Alohen) in Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. Methods various sampling methods were used in Aedes mosquito collection to test their efficacy in the survey. Mosquitoes in holding cages were killed by freezing and morphologically identified. A pool of 15 mosquitoes per Eppendorf tube was preserved in RNAi later for yellow fever virus screening. Two samples were molecularly screened for each location. Results seven hundred and twenty-five (725) mosquitoes were obtained from the various traps. The mean abundance of the mosquitoes was highest in m-HLC (42.9) compared to the mosquitoes sampled using other techniques (p<0.0001). The mean abundance of mosquitoes was lowest in Center for Disease Control (CDC) light traps without attractant (0.29). No yellow fever virus strain was detected in all the mosquitoes sampled at the four locations. Conclusion this study suggests that Aedes albopictus are the mosquitoes commonly biting around houses associated with farms. More so, yellow fever virus was not detected in the mosquitoes probably due to the mass vaccination exercise that was carried out the previous year in the study area. More studies are required using the m-HLC to determine the infection rate in this endemic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chioma Cynthia Ojianwuna
- Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
| | - Victor Ngozi Enwemiwe
- Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
| | - Andy Ogochukwu Egwunyenga
- Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
| | - Akwilla Agboro
- Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel Owobu
- Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
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Anwar T, Qureshi H, Shahzadi S, Siddiqi EH, Ali HM, Abdelhamid MMA, Nazim M. Exploring the benefits of wild plants in dietary nutrition: investigating perspectives, choices, health impacts and sustainable practices. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:86. [PMID: 38355544 PMCID: PMC10865668 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04379-4] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This ethnobotanical study in Dunyapur, District Lodhran, Pakistan, focuses on traditional medicinal knowledge, exploring 41 plants across 28 families. The research involves 496 informants from diverse backgrounds, including farmers, herbalists, housewives, teachers, and shopkeepers. The prevalence of herbs (68%) aligns with their accessibility and rapid regrowth, shaping the local medicinal landscape. The study investigates socio-demographic features, emphasizing the importance of considering the community's diverse perspectives. METHODS The research employs quantitative ethnobotanical data analysis, introducing various indices like PPV, FUV, FIV, RFC, UV, and RI. The analysis of plant growth habits underscores the dominance of herbs, and the method of preparation evaluation identifies decoction as the most common (23%). Leaves (27%) are the most utilized plant part, and Resedaceae stands out with the highest FUV (0.38). FIV highlights the ecological and cultural significance of Poaceae, Boraginaceae, Fabaceae, and Solanaceae. RESULTS The RFC values range from 0.016 to 0.032, with Cucumis melo having the highest value (0.032), indicating its frequent citation and cultural significance. The study reveals specific plants like Melia azedarach, Peganum harmala and Salvadora oleoides with high PR values for skin issues, reflecting their widespread acceptance and effectiveness. Oligomeris linifolia emerges with the highest UV (0.38), emphasizing its greater significance in local traditional practices. Leptadenia pyrotechnica records the highest RI (9.85), underlining its exceptional importance in the community's traditional pharmacopeia. CONCLUSION The findings offer a holistic understanding of ethnobotanical knowledge in Dunyapur, emphasizing the role of local contexts and ecological factors in shaping traditional plant uses. The study contributes valuable insights into the diverse practices within the community, laying the foundation for sustainable integration of traditional knowledge into broader healthcare frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tauseef Anwar
- Department of Botany, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Pakistan.
| | - Huma Qureshi
- Department of Botany, University of Chakwal, Chakwal, 48800, Pakistan
| | - Sumbal Shahzadi
- Department of Botany, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Pakistan
| | | | - Hayssam M Ali
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed M A Abdelhamid
- Agricultural Botany Department, Faculty of Agriculture (Saba Basha), Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Nazim
- State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Key Laboratory of Ecological Safety and Sustainable Development in Arid Lands, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, PR China
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Yared S, Gebressilasie A, Worku A, Mohammed A, Gunarathna I, Rajamanickam D, Waymire E, Balkew M, Carter TE. Breeding habitats, bionomics and phylogenetic analysis of Aedes aegypti and first detection of Culiseta longiareolata, and Ae. hirsutus in Somali Region, eastern Ethiopia. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296406. [PMID: 38165914 PMCID: PMC10760653 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Arboviral diseases, such as dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika, are caused by viruses that are transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. However, the status of arbovirus vectors in eastern Ethiopia is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate distribution, breeding habitat, bionomics and phylogenetic relationship of Aedes aegypti mosquito species in Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia. METHODS Entomological surveys were conducted in four sites including Jigjiga, Degehabur, Kebridehar and Godey in 2018 (October to December) to study the distribution of Ae. aegypti and with a follow-up collection in 2020 (July-December). In addition, an investigation into the seasonality and bionomics of Ae. aegypti was conducted in 2021 (January-April) in Kebridehar town. Adult mosquitoes were collected from indoor and outdoor locations using CDC light traps (LTs), pyrethrum spray collection (PSCs), and aspirators. Larvae and pupae were also collected from a total of 169 water-holding containers using a dipper between October and November 2020 (rainy season) in Kebridehar town. The species identification of wild caught and reared adults was conducted using a taxonomic key. In addition, species identification using mitochondrial and nuclear genes maximum likelihood-based phylogenetic analysis was performed. RESULTS In the 2018 collection, Ae. aegypti was found in all study sites (Jigjiga, Degahabour, Kebridehar and Godey). In the 2020-2021 collection, a total of 470 (Female = 341, Male = 129) wild caught adult Ae. aegypti mosquitoes were collected, mostly during the rainy season with the highest frequency in November (n = 177) while the lowest abundance was in the dry season (n = 14) for both February and March. The majority of Ae. aegypt were caught using PSC (n = 365) followed by CDC LT (n = 102) and least were collected by aspirator from an animal shelter (n = 3). Aedes aegypti larval density was highest in tires (0.97 larvae per dip) followed by cemented cisterns (0.73 larvae per dip) and the Relative Breeding Index (RBI) was 0.87 and Container Index (CI) was 0.56. Genetic analysis of ITS2 and COI revealed one and 18 haplotypes, respectively and phylogenetic analysis confirmed species identification. The 2022 collection revealed no Ae. aegpti, but two previously uncharacterized species to that region. Phylogenetic analysis of these two species revealed their identities as Ae. hirsutus and Culiseta longiareolata. CONCLUSION Data from our study indicate that, Ae. aegypti is present both during the wet and dry seasons due to the availability of breeding habitats, including water containers like cemented cisterns, tires, barrels, and plastic containers. This study emphasizes the necessity of establishing a national entomological surveillance program for Aedes in Somali region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Yared
- Department of Biology, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia
| | - Araya Gebressilasie
- Department of Zoological Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Amha Worku
- Department of Biology, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia
| | - Abas Mohammed
- Department of Biology, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia
| | - Isuru Gunarathna
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States of America
| | - Dhivya Rajamanickam
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Waymire
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States of America
| | - Meshesha Balkew
- Abt Associates, PMI VectorLink Ethiopia Project, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tamar E. Carter
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States of America
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Baghani M, Fathalizade F, Loghman AH, Samieefar N, Ghobadinezhad F, Rashedi R, Baghsheikhi H, Sodeifian F, Rahimzadegan M, Akhlaghdoust M. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy worldwide and its associated factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. SCIENCE IN ONE HEALTH 2023; 2:100048. [PMID: 39077035 PMCID: PMC11262288 DOI: 10.1016/j.soh.2023.100048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Introduction The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has taken a toll on humans, and the development of effective vaccines has been a promising tool to end the pandemic. However, for a vaccination program to be successful, a considerable proportion of the community must be vaccinated. Hence, public acceptance of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines has become the key to controlling the pandemic. Recent studies have shown vaccine hesitancy increasing over time. This systematic review aims to evaluate the COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy rate and related factors in different communities. Method A comprehensive search was performed in MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science from January 1, 2019 to January 31, 2022. All relevant descriptive and observational studies (cross-sectional and longitudinal) on vaccine hesitancy and acceptance were included in this systematic review. In the meta-analysis, odds ratio (OR) was used to assess the effects of population characteristics on vaccine hesitancy, and event rate (acceptance rate) was the effect measure for overall acceptance. Publication bias was assessed using the funnel plot, Egger's test, and trim-and-fill methods. Result A total of 135 out of 6,417 studies were included after screening. A meta-analysis of 114 studies, including 849,911 participants, showed an overall acceptance rate of 63.1%. In addition, men, married individuals, educated people, those with a history of flu vaccination, those with higher income levels, those with comorbidities, and people living in urban areas were less hesitant. Conclusion Increasing public awareness of the importance of COVID-19 vaccines in overcoming the pandemic is crucial. Being men, living in an urban region, being married or educated, having a history of influenza vaccination, having a higher level of income status, and having a history of comorbidities are associated with higher COVID-19 vaccine acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matin Baghani
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzan Fathalizade
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Loghman
- USERN Office, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Noosha Samieefar
- USERN Office, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Farbod Ghobadinezhad
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Ronak Rashedi
- USERN Office, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hediyeh Baghsheikhi
- USERN Office, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sodeifian
- USERN Office, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Milad Rahimzadegan
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- USERN Office, Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meisam Akhlaghdoust
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- USERN Office, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- USERN Office, Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
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Kajeguka DC, Mponela FM, Mkumbo E, Kaaya AN, Lasway D, Kaaya RD, Alifrangis M, Elanga-Ndille E, Mmbaga BT, Kavishe R. Prevalence and Associated Factors of Dengue Virus Circulation in the Rural Community, Handeni District in Tanga, Tanzania. J Trop Med 2023; 2023:5576300. [PMID: 38028027 PMCID: PMC10651340 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5576300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Dengue virus is among the most important re-emerging arbovirus that causes global public health attention. Dengue has historically been thought of as an urban disease that frequently occurs in rapidly urbanized settings. However, dengue has become more widespread in rural regions in recent years. Understanding the changing dengue epidemiology in different geographical settings is important for targeted intervention. In Tanzania, dengue fever is not frequently reported because of the poor surveillance infrastructure, underestimation, and a lack of consideration of dengue as a priority. Therefore, the true burden as well as the risk factors for increased transmission has not been fully ascertained, particularly in rural areas. A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted in June 2021, involving a total of 362 participants of all age groups. We investigated the prevalence of acute dengue infection, seroprevalence, and associated factors among the community in three villages of the rural Handeni district. The prevalence of acute dengue infection (based on PCR) was 2.2% (8/362). Dengue-specific IgM and IgG antibodies were detected in 3.3% (12/362) and 5.2% (19/362) of the participants, respectively. Adult participants who were having vegetation around their houses were more likely to be DENV seropositive (AOR = 2.4, CI = 1.88-4.18, p value = 0.05). Children living in houses with garbage pit around their households were less likely to be DENV seropositive (AOR = 0.13, CI = 0.03-0.56, p value <0.01). DENV continues to circulate in rural Tanzania, causes an alarming situation, and necessitates prompt public health action to enhance vector surveillance and control in rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emmanuel Mkumbo
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Anna N. Kaaya
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Daniel Lasway
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Robert D. Kaaya
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
- Pan-African Malaria Vector Control Consortium, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Michael Alifrangis
- Centre for Medical Parasitology, Department Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Blandina T. Mmbaga
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Reginald Kavishe
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
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Almalki OS, Santali EY, Alhothali AA, Ewis AA, Shady A, Fathelrahman AI, Abdelwahab SF. The role of blood groups, vaccine type and gender in predicting the severity of side effects among university students receiving COVID-19 vaccines. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:378. [PMID: 37280542 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08363-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
On March 11th, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) a pandemic. To control the pandemic, billions of vaccine doses have been administered worldwide. Predictors of COVID-19 vaccine-related side effects are inconsistently described in the literature. This study aimed to identify the predictors of side effects' severity after COVID-19 vaccination among young adult students at Taif University (TU) in Saudi Arabia. An online, anonymous questionnaire was used. Descriptive statistics were calculated for numerical and categorical variables. Possible correlations with other characteristics were identified using the chi-square test. The study included 760 young adult participants from TU. Pain at the injection site (54.7%), headache (45.0%), lethargy and fatigue (43.3%), and fever (37.5%) were the most frequently reported COVID-19 vaccine-related side effects after the first dose. The most frequent side effects were reported among the 20-25-year-old age group for all doses of all vaccines. Females experienced remarkably more side effects after the second (p < 0.001) and third doses (p = 0.002). Moreover, ABO blood groups significantly correlated with vaccine-related side effects after the second dose (p = 0.020). The participants' general health status correlated with the side effects after the first and second doses (p < 0.001 and 0.022, respectively). The predictors of COVID-19 vaccine-related side effects in young, vaccinated people were blood group B, female gender, vaccine type, and poor health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ohoud S Almalki
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Eman Y Santali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Ashraf A Ewis
- Department of Public Health and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, 61511, Egypt
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences-AlQunfudah, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 28821, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer Shady
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Sayed F Abdelwahab
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
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Shukla V, Sachan B, Jauhari S, Bhardwaj S, Pathak A, Kandpal SD. Adverse events following COVID-19 immunisation (AEFI) at a COVID-19 vaccination centre: An observational analytical study. J Family Med Prim Care 2023; 12:460-465. [PMID: 37122665 PMCID: PMC10131963 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1434_22] [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: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) in various age groups after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination and assess the association of comorbidities with AEFI. Methods An observational analytical study was conducted among the general population who had received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. A total of 389 participants from the 18-44 years age group, 380 participants from the 45-60 years age group and 373 participants from the 60 plus age group were enrolled in the study after verbal and written consent. Simple random sampling was used to select the study participant in each group. Home visits were made to fill out the semi-structured questionnaire for information regarding any adverse event following COVID-19 immunisation. Results Overall, 31.9%, 19.74% and 15.17% of >60, 45-60 and 18-44 years, respectively, reported any AEFI after COVID-19 immunisation. The severity of AEFI was more among the 18-44 years age group (66.1%) followed by 45-60 years (30.67%) and less among the older one, that is, >60 years. Fever and pain with inflammation at the injection site were the most common AEFI reported after any dose. There was no association of comorbidity with the severity of AEFI. Conclusion Since the AEFI reported are very less, most of them were of a minor type and were general immunogenic reactions of any vaccine. Hence the COVID-19 vaccines are very safe, and uptake should be high among all the recommended age groups to combat the severity of the COVID-19 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinita Shukla
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R.M.L.I.M.S, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Beena Sachan
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R.M.L.I.M.S, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sugandha Jauhari
- Department of Community Medicine and Public Health, King George Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Address for correspondence: Dr. Sugandha Jauhari, Department of Community Medicine and Public Health, King George Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. E-mail:
| | - Shubhankur Bhardwaj
- Government Institute of Medical Sciences, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anurag Pathak
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R.M.L.I.M.S, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sunil Dutt Kandpal
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R.M.L.I.M.S, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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El-Ghitany EM, Hashish MH, Farghaly AG, Omran EA, Osman NA, Fekry MM. Asymptomatic versus symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection: a cross-sectional seroprevalence study. Trop Med Health 2022; 50:98. [PMID: 36575501 PMCID: PMC9792933 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-022-00490-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection predisposes patients to develop complications, the asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection state is of public health importance being a hidden source of infection. Moreover, the asymptomatic state may camouflage the actual burden of the disease. METHODS Data of 1434 seropositive participants for SARS-CoV-2 spike (anti-S) and/or nucleocapsid antibodies (anti-N) were retrieved from a larger cross-sectional survey on COVID-19. Relevant data were retrieved from records including socio-demographic, medical, and behavioral characteristics of seropositive participants as well as history of COVID-19 symptoms during the last 6 months. Symptomatic/asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection was categorized based on the history of the presence or absence of COVID-19 symptoms. RESULTS The rate of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection was 34.9%. There was a statistically significant difference between symptomatic and asymptomatic participants regarding age, residence, medical conditions, habits, and infection control measures. The number of symptoms was positively correlated with anti-S titer and both were positively correlated with adult body mass index. Slum areas residence, client-facing occupation or being a healthcare worker, having lung disease, having blood group type A, never practicing exercise or social distancing, never using soap for hand washing, and minimal engagement in online working/studying were independent factors associated with the symptomatic state. Patients having less than three symptoms were less likely to be diagnosed by any means. CONCLUSIONS One-third of SARS-CoV-2 infections in our study were asymptomatic. This mandates applying proper measures to prevent transmission even from apparently healthy individuals. Modifiable factors associated with symptomatic infection should be controlled to reduce the risk of COVID-19 complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Engy Mohamed El-Ghitany
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Tropical Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mona H. Hashish
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Microbiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Azza Galal Farghaly
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Tropical Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Eman A. Omran
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Microbiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Nermin A. Osman
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Biomedical Informatics and Medical Statistics Department, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Marwa M. Fekry
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Microbiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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