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Dos Santos KC, Guedes PEB, Albuquerque GR, de Jesus AV, da Paixão Sevá A, de Oliveira JTS, de Carvalho Teixeira JB, Bitar TV, Harvey TV, Ramos SNS, Barufi FB, de Almeida Borges F, Carlos RSA. Efficacy of monthly treatment with oral fluralaner (Bravecto ® 1-Month) against Tunga penetrans in dogs in Brazil: a randomized, double-blind, controlled field study. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:197. [PMID: 38685048 PMCID: PMC11059606 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06272-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tungiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by the adult female sand flea (Tunga penetrans). Dogs are considered important reservoirs of T. penetrans in Brazil. The aim of this study was to determine the monthly insecticidal efficacy of a single oral administration of fluralaner at a dose of 10-18 mg/kg (Bravecto® 1-Month, also registered as Defenza® in some countries; MSD Animal Health) in dogs naturally infested with T. penetrans. METHODS This clinical trial was conducted in a rural community located in Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil. A total of 64 dogs were selected and distributed in a completely randomized design between a treated group (TG) that received one single dose of Bravecto® 1-Month (Defenza®) and a negative control group (CG) that received no treatment. Each group was composed of 32 dogs. The evaluations took place on days 0, 7 ± 2, 14 ± 2, 21 ± 2, 28 ± 2, 35 ± 2, and 42 ± 2 post treatment, in which the dogs were inspected to evaluate the infestation stage and classify lesions associated with tungiasis. The primary efficacy was determined from the percentage of treated dogs free of fleas (stage II and III lesions) after administration of the formulation at each evaluation time. Secondary efficacy was based on the number of active lesions (stages II and III) in each group at each evaluation time. The clinical condition of the animals was defined based on the Severity Score for Acute Dog Tungiasis (SCADT), which is related to the number and severity of lesions. RESULTS The primary efficacy of the product was greater than 95.0% from days 7 to 21 and reached 100.0% between days 28 and 42, with a significant association between treatment and infestation decline (P < 0.025) between days 7 and 42. Secondary drug efficacy was greater than 99.9% from days 7 to 21, reaching 100.0% between days 28 and 42 (P < 0.05). The treated dogs also scored lower on the SCADT than the control animals did during the entire clinical evaluation period (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS A single administration of Bravecto® 1-Month (Defenza®) was effective in eliminating Tunga penetrans infestations, as well as in preventing parasitism for at least 42 days after treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Costa Dos Santos
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, UESC, State University of Santa Cruz, Rod. Jorge Amado Km 16-Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Paula Elisa Brandão Guedes
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, UESC, State University of Santa Cruz, Rod. Jorge Amado Km 16-Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, 45662-900, Brazil
| | - George Rêgo Albuquerque
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, UESC, State University of Santa Cruz, Rod. Jorge Amado Km 16-Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Anderson Vieira de Jesus
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, UESC, State University of Santa Cruz, Rod. Jorge Amado Km 16-Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Anaiá da Paixão Sevá
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, UESC, State University of Santa Cruz, Rod. Jorge Amado Km 16-Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Joana Thaisa Santos de Oliveira
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, UESC, State University of Santa Cruz, Rod. Jorge Amado Km 16-Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Jamille Bispo de Carvalho Teixeira
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, UESC, State University of Santa Cruz, Rod. Jorge Amado Km 16-Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Thammy Vieira Bitar
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, UESC, State University of Santa Cruz, Rod. Jorge Amado Km 16-Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, 45662-900, Brazil
| | | | - Sofia Nadir Sanches Ramos
- MSD, Merck & Co Animal Health, Avenida Doutor Chucri Zaidan, 296, 12º Andar, São Paulo, 04583-110, Brazil
| | - Francisco Bonomi Barufi
- MSD, Merck & Co Animal Health, Avenida Doutor Chucri Zaidan, 296, 12º Andar, São Paulo, 04583-110, Brazil
| | - Fernando de Almeida Borges
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, UFMS, Federal University of Mato Grosso Do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso Do Sul, Brazil
| | - Renata Santiago Alberto Carlos
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, UESC, State University of Santa Cruz, Rod. Jorge Amado Km 16-Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia, 45662-900, Brazil.
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Silva NDS, Alencar CH, Calheiros CML, Heukelbach J. Occurrence of Tungiasis in Ceará State, Northeast Brazil: Results of a Rapid Assessment Method. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2023; 56:e02742023. [PMID: 37970878 PMCID: PMC10637729 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0274-2023] [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: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systematic data on the occurrence of tungiasis are scarce. METHODS We analyzed data on tungiasis in humans and animals from all municipalities of Ceará State, Northeast Brazil, using a rapid assessment questionnaire. RESULTS Among the 184 municipalities, 181 (98.3%) reported tungiasis in the past (before 2021) or currently, 120 (65.2%) reported current occurrence, 155 (84.2%) reported severe cases in the past or currently, 47 (25.5 %) reported severe cases currently, and 132 (71.7%) reported tungiasis in animals. CONCLUSIONS Tungiasis is a significant public health concern in Ceará. A One Health approach is required to reduce the disease burden in humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathiel de Sousa Silva
- Universidade Federal do Ceará, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde Pública, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Carlos Henrique Alencar
- Universidade Federal do Ceará, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde Pública, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | | | - Jorg Heukelbach
- Universidade Federal do Ceará, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde Pública, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
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Teixeira JBDC, dos Santos KC, Guedes PEB, Vitor RC, Bitar TV, Harvey TV, Sevá ADP, Carlos RSA. Tungiasis: Participation of Cats and Chickens in the Dispersion and Maintenance of the Disease in an Endemic Tourist Area in Brazil. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:456. [PMID: 37888584 PMCID: PMC10611092 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8100456] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunga spp. are fleas commonly found in impoverished tropical regions. In Vila Juerana, a tourist community in Ilheus, Bahia, Brazil, where tungiasis is endemic, dogs are the main host of fleas during their life cycle. However, there is no information about the role of cats and chickens in tungiasis in the village. Of the 272 households investigated, 112 had domestic animals, 48 had only dogs, 28 had only cats, and nine had only chickens. Of the 27 households with cohabitation among species, 16 had cats and dogs, eight had chickens and dogs, and three had dogs, cats, and chickens. The injuries due to tungiasis were ranked according to the Fortaleza classification, considering stages I, II, and III as viable lesions. The paws/feet of 71/111 (63.9%) cats and 173/439 (39.4%) chickens were inspected. Dogs that lived with positive cats and chickens also were inspected. Among the 38% (27/7; 95% IC 26.74-49.32) positive cats, 16 cohabited houses with infected dogs but none lived with positive chickens. Of the chickens, 2.3% (4/173; 95% IC 0.07-4.5) had lesions caused by tungiasis. In each household where a cat was infected, the dog was also positive. Two chickens cohabited with an infected dog and the other two did not coexist with other species. Cohabitation with infected dogs and the absence of house confinement restrictions in Vila Juerana make cats important carriers that spread tungiasis in this community. Chickens had a low frequency of tungiasis lesions despite living in proximity to infected dogs and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamille Bispo de Carvalho Teixeira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal—PPGCA, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais (DCAA), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.B.d.C.T.); (K.C.d.S.); (P.E.B.G.); (R.C.V.); (A.d.P.S.)
| | - Katharine Costa dos Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal—PPGCA, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais (DCAA), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.B.d.C.T.); (K.C.d.S.); (P.E.B.G.); (R.C.V.); (A.d.P.S.)
| | - Paula Elisa Brandão Guedes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal—PPGCA, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais (DCAA), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.B.d.C.T.); (K.C.d.S.); (P.E.B.G.); (R.C.V.); (A.d.P.S.)
| | - Rebeca Costa Vitor
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal—PPGCA, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais (DCAA), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.B.d.C.T.); (K.C.d.S.); (P.E.B.G.); (R.C.V.); (A.d.P.S.)
| | - Thammy Vieira Bitar
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais (DCAA), Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Bahia, Brazil;
| | | | - Anaiá da Paixão Sevá
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal—PPGCA, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais (DCAA), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.B.d.C.T.); (K.C.d.S.); (P.E.B.G.); (R.C.V.); (A.d.P.S.)
| | - Renata Santiago Alberto Carlos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal—PPGCA, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais (DCAA), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.B.d.C.T.); (K.C.d.S.); (P.E.B.G.); (R.C.V.); (A.d.P.S.)
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McNeilly H, Thielecke M, Mutebi F, Banalyaki M, Reichert F, Wiese S, Feldmeier H. Tungiasis Stigma and Control Practices in a Hyperendemic Region in Northeastern Uganda. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8040206. [PMID: 37104332 PMCID: PMC10144114 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8040206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases are known to be highly stigmatized conditions. This study investigates tungiasis-related stigma and control practices in the impoverished Napak District in rural northeastern Uganda, where tungiasis is hyperendemic and effective treatment is unavailable. We conducted a questionnaire survey with the main household caretakers (n = 1329) in 17 villages and examined them for tungiasis. The prevalence of tungiasis among our respondents was 61.0%. Questionnaire responses showed that tungiasis was perceived as a potentially serious and debilitating condition and that tungiasis-related stigma and embarrassment were common. Among the respondents, 42.0% expressed judging attitudes, associating tungiasis with laziness, carelessness, and dirtiness, and 36.3% showed compassionate attitudes towards people with tungiasis. Questionnaire responses further indicated that people made an effort to keep their feet and house floors clean (important tungiasis prevention measures), but lack of water was a common problem in the area. The most frequent local treatment practices were hazardous manual extraction of sand fleas with sharp instruments and application of various and sometimes toxic substances. Reliable access to safe and effective treatment and water are therefore key to reducing the need for dangerous treatment attempts and breaking the vicious cycle of tungiasis stigma in this setting marked by poverty.
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dos Santos KC, Brandão Guedes PE, Teixeira JBDC, Harvey TV, Carlos RSA. Treatment of Animal Tungiasis: What’s New? Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8030142. [PMID: 36977143 PMCID: PMC10051256 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8030142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In tropical and subtropical countries, particularly in disadvantaged communities, tungiasis is a severe public health problem, which is often neglected by the authorities. The sand fleas Tunga penetrans, predominant in endemic areas, and Tunga trimamillata, whose cases in humans are less frequent, are the cause of this zoonosis. Domestic animals are potential reservoirs and disseminators of tungiasis, so controlling their infection would significantly advance the prevention of human cases. This literature review compiles the most recent studies and innovations in treating animal tungiasis. Studies of approaches to the treatment of animal tungiasis, as well as disease control and prevention, are described. Isoxazolines are highlighted as promising drugs to treat animal tungiasis, with high efficacy and pharmacological protection. The positive impacts of this discovery on public health are also discussed, since dogs are an essential risk factor for human tungiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Costa dos Santos
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Paula Elisa Brandão Guedes
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Brazil
| | | | - Tatiani Vitor Harvey
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Renata Santiago Alberto Carlos
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Ilhéus 45662-900, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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Rasoamialy-Soa Razanakolona L, Raharisoa A, Soankasina AH, De La Croix Jaonasoa J, Nicolas P, Antilahy JA, Chebbah D, Akhoundi M, Izri A. Clinical and epidemiological survey of tungiasis in Madagascar. Travel Med Infect Dis 2022; 50:102449. [PMID: 36113754 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2022.102449] [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: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tungiasis is a dermal parasitic infection, classified as a neglected tropical disease. Madagascar is one of endemic countries which have been committed for decades to control the tungiasis as a public health issue. Despite this medical importance, little is known about the prevalence and epidemiology of the disease in this country. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional survey was performed in two endemic foci of Antananarivo and Toamasina. RESULTS In total, 2971 suspected individuals were surveyed. Of them, 643 individuals were excluded due to absence or refusing clinical examinations. Therefore, 2328 individuals with aforementioned criteria were clinically examined, 320 cases (13.7%) were found infected by Tunga penetrans. Of these 320 infected cases, 241 individuals came from rural regions against 79 from urban areas. The sex ratio of infected cases was 1.15 with an age average of 34.7 years old. Most of them were illiterate (185/320, 57.8%) with no habit of feet washing (210/320, 65.6%). The majority (198/320, 61.9%) inhabited in the houses constructed by falafa providing a suitable breeding location for Tunga ectoparasites. Based on clinical examination, most of the patients (298/320, 93.1%) had the lesions on their toes followed by those possessed the lesions on the plantar (140/320, 43.7%). The lesion stages of IV and V were observed in 49.1% (157/320) of visited patients which were more common in rural regions (86%) than in urban areas (14%). For treatment, removing the fleas using needle (122/320, 38.1%), followed by the application of petroleum (100/320, 31.2%) were among the most traditional remedies used by our patients. CONCLUSION This investigation highlights a high burden of tungiasis in studied endemic foci in particular in rural regions. These results can be helpful in control management strategies against this parasitosis in Madagascar.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annie Raharisoa
- Laboratoire de Biologie Médicale, Centre Hospitalier Régional de Référence Itasy, Miarinarivo, Madagascar
| | - Abel Hermann Soankasina
- Département de Biologie Médicale, Hôpital Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Jean De La Croix Jaonasoa
- Laboratoire de Biologie Médicale, Centre Hospitalier Régional de Référence Sambava, Sambava, Madagascar
| | - Patrick Nicolas
- Biochemistry Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Sorbonne Paris Nord University, Bobigny, France
| | - Jimmy Anders Antilahy
- Parasitology-Mycology Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Sorbonne Paris Nord University, Bobigny, France
| | - Dahlia Chebbah
- Parasitology-Mycology Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Sorbonne Paris Nord University, Bobigny, France
| | - Mohammad Akhoundi
- Parasitology-Mycology Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Sorbonne Paris Nord University, Bobigny, France.
| | - Arezki Izri
- Parasitology-Mycology Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Sorbonne Paris Nord University, Bobigny, France; Unité des Virus Émergents (UVEAix-Marseille Univ-IRD 190-Inserm 1207-IHU Méditerranée Infection), Marseille, France
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Saboyá-Díaz MI, Nicholls RS, Castellanos LG, Feldmeier H. Current status of the knowledge on the epidemiology of tungiasis in the Americas. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2022; 46:e124. [PMID: 36060204 PMCID: PMC9426953 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2022.124] [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: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives. To present the state-of-the-knowledge on the epidemiology of tungiasis in the Region of the Americas. Methods. A search of publications on the epidemiology of tungiasis in the Americas was performed in PubMed and LILACS databases from January 2007 to June 2021. In addition, a manual literature search on articles on the epidemiology of tungiasis was performed. Results. A total of 83 articles were analyzed which contained relevant information on tungiasis cases and their geographical distribution, prevalence and risk factors, life cycle, sites where transmission takes place, and zoonotic aspects. The on-host and off-host life cycles have been researched in detail. In certain contexts, the whole life cycle is completed indoors enabling transmission around the whole year. Cases were reported from 10 countries; 71% of them were from Brazil. In the general population, the prevalence varied between 1.0% and 82.6% according to the settings. Age-specific prevalence indicated that children and the elderly bear the highest disease burden. Risk factor studies indicate that tungiasis is associated with severe poverty. Conclusions. In the Americas, there are important gaps in information and knowledge of tungiasis. Understanding the burden, epidemiology, distribution, magnitude, related risk factors, and reservoirs, among others, is needed to develop and implement integrated control measures tailored to the context and patterns of transmission in the affected communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Idalí Saboyá-Díaz
- Pan American Health Organization Washington, DC United States of America Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Rubén Santiago Nicholls
- Pan American Health Organization Washington, DC United States of America Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Luis Gerardo Castellanos
- Pan American Health Organization Washington, DC United States of America Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Hermann Feldmeier
- University Medicine Berlin Berlin Germany University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Deka MA, Heukelbach J. Distribution of tungiasis in latin America: Identification of areas for potential disease transmission using an ecological niche model. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2021; 5:100080. [PMID: 36776459 PMCID: PMC9903635 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2021.100080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Tungiasis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) found in Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. Despite the high frequency in marginalized populations, little information is available on the geography and estimates of the population at risk in endemic regions. Here we used a geostatistical model to map the potential geographic distribution of areas suitable for tungiasis transmission in Latin America and estimated the at-risk population. Methods We developed an ecological niche model (ENM) using tungiasis occurrence records and remotely sensed environmental and socioeconomic data. The potential geographic distribution was then compared to the current population distribution of the region to derive the total population living in urban and rural areas. Findings We identified a total of 138 records of occurrences of tungiasis in Latin America, ranging from Mexico to Argentina; 27 reports were not included in the modeling, due to missing detailed geographic information. The occurrences with detailed geographic information (n = 112) included 17 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The locations were in environments that primarily consisted of forests (29%), croplands (16•5%), and shrublands (10•9%). We predicted environmentally suitable areas for tungiasis transmission in 45 countries. The estimated human population living in these areas is 450,546,547 with urban centers accounting for 347,007,103 and rural areas 103,539,444. Countries with significant ecological suitability and documented occurrences include Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, French Guyana, Guatemala, Haiti, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, and Venezuela. Interpretation This is the first study mapping the potential distribution of tungiasis in Latin America, evidencing the need for population-based studies and elaboration of integrated control measures. Funding This project was supported in part by an appointment to the Research Participation Program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention administered by the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education through an interagency agreement between the U.S. Department of Energy and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A. Deka
- ORISE Fellow, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Corresponding author:
| | - Jorg Heukelbach
- Postgraduate Program of Public Health, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza - CE, Brazil
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Evaluating the potentials of randomised integrated control trial on tungiasis in a South-western Nigerian community. Acta Trop 2021; 223:106076. [PMID: 34358514 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106076] [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: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Considering the fact that new, safe and incorporable treatment alternatives to therapeutic prophylaxis for tungiasis are lacking and sometimes proving difficult, this present study evaluated the potentials of integrating control approach involving focal premise treatment using 5% emulsifiable concentrate of cypermethrin, and topical application of Piper guineense oil with personal protection. Of the 90 houses selected, their floors were classified into paved rooms & unpaved verandas, paved verandas & unpaved rooms, paved rooms & verandas, and unpaved rooms & verandas, and tested for the presence of sand fleas using the sweeping and beating as well as soil collection and extraction by tullgren funnel method before fumigation. A total of 100 individuals partitioned into four groups of 25 individuals each were assigned 3%, 5%, 10% and 15% of P. guineense oil irrespective of stages of embedded fleas. The mean of sand fleas decreased from 1.14, 0.07, 0.21, and 1.66 to 0.37, 0.02, 0.09 and 1.08 after two weeks of single spray compared to the untreated location (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the mean lesions of stage I reduced to 0 after 2 to 6 days of 3%, 5%, 10% and 15% ointment application, and stage II and III after 10 to 12 days of 10% and 15% application respectively. The difference between tungiasis stages and exposure time for P. guineense ointment was highly significant p = 0.007 and p = 0.0002. Notable reduction in severity score of acute and chronic tungiasis was observed thus indicating effectiveness of the topical ointment. Hexanolic oil extracts of P. guineense in 10% and 15% concentration would kill embedded sand flea and ameliorate the sufferings in endemic settings.
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Amare HH, Lindtjorn B. Risk factors for scabies, tungiasis, and tinea infections among schoolchildren in southern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional Bayesian multilevel model. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009816. [PMID: 34613968 PMCID: PMC8494366 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Skin problems cause significant sickness in communities with poor living conditions, but they have received less attention in national or global health studies because of their low mortality rates. In many developing regions, the prevalence of parasitic skin diseases among schoolchildren is not reported. Previous studies thus have attempted to identify risk factors for these conditions using the frequentist approach. This study aimed to assess the occurrence and risk factors of skin infections among rural schoolchildren in southern Ethiopia by combining a frequentist and a Bayesian approach. Methodology/Principal findings Using three-stage random sampling, we assessed 864 schoolchildren aged 7–14 years from the Wonago district in southern Ethiopia. We detected potential risk factors for scabies, tungiasis, and tinea infections and recorded their hygienic practices and socio-demographic information. The frequentist model revealed a clustering effect of 8.8% at the classroom level and an insignificant effect at the school level. The Bayesian model revealed a clustering effect of 16% at the classroom level and 5.3% at the school level. Almost three-fourths of the sample had at least one type of skin problem, and boys were at higher overall risk than girls (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.55 [95% Bayesian credible interval [BCI] 1.01, 2.28). Risk factors included unclean fingernails (aOR 1.85 [95% BCI 1.08, 2.97]); not washing the body (aOR 1.90 [95% BCI 1.21, 2.85]) and hair (aOR 3.07 [95% BCI 1.98, 4.57]) with soap every week; sharing a bed (aOR 1.97 [95% BCI 1.27, 2.89]), clothes (aOR 5.65 [95% BCI 3.31, 9.21]), or combs (aOR 3.65 [95% BCI 2.28, 5.53]); and living in a poor household (aOR 1.76 [95% BCI 1.03, 2.83]). Washing legs and feet with soap daily was identified as a protective factor for each of the three skin diseases (aOR 0.23 [95% BCI 0.15, 0.33]). Conclusions/Significance We observed high variation in skin problems at the classroom level, indicating the presence of shared risk factors in these locations. The findings suggest the need to improve children’s personal hygiene via health education by schoolteachers and health workers. Skin problems are common disorders in resource poor settings. Scabies and tungiasis are neglected tropical diseases causing significant sickness in communities with poor living conditions. Scabies is dermatosis caused by a burrowing mite, Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. Tungiasis is caused by a flea, Tunga penetrans, infesting the skin, usually on the feet or hands. Tinea infection is a fungal dermatophyte infection of the skin and the most common dermatological problem among schoolchildren in Ethiopia, especially tinea capitis. Application of a Bayesian approach to identify possible risk factors for these problems has seldom been used. We found that compared to the frequentist model, the Bayesian model better explained school- and classroom-level variations in skin problems among schoolchildren. Our findings also suggest that transmission of skin infections, especially fungal and scabies infections, frequently occurs in schools and classrooms. We identified several risk factors for these conditions, including low socioeconomic status; unclean fingernails; not washing with soap at least every week; and sharing beds, clothes, and combs. Thus, it is important to improve the personal hygiene of schoolchildren through education. Regular checkups by teachers also can improve skin health and related morbidity in rural schoolchildren in southern Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiwot Hailu Amare
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
- Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
| | - Bernt Lindtjorn
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
- Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Harvey TV, Linardi PM, Carlos RSA, Heukelbach J. Tungiasis in domestic, wild, and synanthropic animals in Brazil. Acta Trop 2021; 222:106068. [PMID: 34331896 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Tungiasis is an ectoparasitic skin disease of humans and warm-blooded animals caused by fleas of the genus Tunga (Jarocki, 1938). Dogs, cats, pigs, and synanthropic rodents are the main animal reservoirs. Of the 14 known species, 12 are found in Latin America and, among these, eight are found in Brazil, including the two zoonotic species Tunga penetrans and Tunga trimamillata. Tunga penetrans predominates among humans and Brazilian pets, where the dog is the most affected species, and its presence is a risk factor associated with the disease in humans. Tunga spp. are widely distributed throughout the national territory, with T. penetrans being the most dispersed and the most frequent in animals from endemic areas, especially in underprivileged communities. Infections in animals, associated with inadequate management, favor the spread and perpetuation of the disease. Intense injuries can result in sequelae and serious clinical conditions, compromising the health, welfare, and productivity of animals, as well as leading to death. Health precariousness, lack of control and neglect in the management of populations of domestic and synanthropic animals, poor hygiene habits of individuals, lack of information from both the population and related professionals, lack of effective treatment, and of perception of tungiasis as a disease are among the main challenges for the control of this parasitosis. As recommended for other zoonotic Neglected Tropical Diseases, strategies based on the concept of One Health can guarantee more effective results in the fight against human and animal tungiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiani Vitor Harvey
- Autonomous Veterinarian, 16 Aberdeen Avenue, Cambridge, MA, Zipcode 02138, United States.
| | - Pedro Marcos Linardi
- UFMG. Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Caixa Postal 486, Avenida Antônio Carlos, 6627, Campus UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, CEP 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Renata Santiago Alberto Carlos
- UESC. Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade. Rodovia Jorge Amado Km 16. Bairro Salobrinho. Ilhéus, Bahia, CEP 45662-900, Brazil.
| | - Jorg Heukelbach
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, CEP 60.430-140, Brazil.
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Enwemiwe VN, Ojianwuna CC, Anyaele OO. Intensity and clinical morbidities of tungiasis in an impoverished south-west Nigerian community. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2021; 14:e00215. [PMID: 34124398 PMCID: PMC8173311 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2021.e00215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Sand fleas infestation, Tunga penetrans, remains a neglected tropical disease of public-health concern in many countries. Tungiasis can lead to destruction of the feet causing serious discomfort and deformities. This study aim was to determine the intensity rate and clinical morbidities of tungiasis among the people living in Igbokoda, Ondo State, Nigeria. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among households in three villages in Igbokoda. Hands and feet of selected household members were examined, while fleas on different floor types of houses were sampled by soil collection and extraction by tullgren funnel method. Sand fleas were equally sampled from legs of infested individuals by hand picking. Intensity was determined in terms of number of lesions and fleas in different floor-types. Tungiasis-associated morbidities was assessed using acute and chronic lesions severity scores. The study revealed that moderate infestation was observed in 173 infested individuals and severe infestation in 16 infested individuals. A total of 5293 lesions was observed out of which 3098 were viable. The flea burdens on sampled floors and legs were 127 and 146 fleas respectively occurring mostly in unpaved veranda and rooms (65 and 62 fleas respectively). Tungiasis lesions observed in males were more intense compared to females. Flea lesions and burdens with respect to age stratification and location were significant P < 0.0001. Difficulty in walking, pain upon pressure and deformation of the feet were the most common tungiasis-associated morbidity recorded. Also, tungiasis-associated morbidities, and flea number sampled on legs and on floor of environment were reportedly intense. Therefore, scaling up an appropriate and affordable intervention approach targeted at the fleas would serve as a relief to the scourge of tungiasis in Igbokoda community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor N Enwemiwe
- Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria.,Department of Zoology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Cynthia C Ojianwuna
- Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
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Clinical implications and treatment options of tungiasis in domestic animals. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:4113-4123. [PMID: 33818640 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07121-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Tunga penetrans, Tunga trimamillata and Tunga hexalobulata are the three species of sand fleas which cause tungiasis in domestic animals. Tunga penetrans and T. trimamillata are zoonotic in the tropical and sub-tropical endemic communities of Latin America and Africa. Tungiasis in animals frequently occurs alongside human tungiasis. Currently, most of the attention given to tungiasis is focusing on the human disease, and animal tungiasis is extremely neglected despite its public health and animal health significance. This review highlights recent findings concerning the clinical implications and treatment options but also summarises the occurrence, major features, public health and economic significance of tungiasis in domestic animals. Pigs, dogs, cats and domestic ruminants have been reported to harbour high intensities of sand fleas in endemic communities. High infection intensities cause significant animal morbidity which is often exacerbated by excoriations and secondary bacterial infections which are potentially fatal. In addition to the potential economic losses accruing from tungiasis-related morbidity, infected domestic animals contribute to transmission and persistence of sand fleas and eventually also to severe human disease. Although control of animal tungiasis is possible by adoption of proper husbandry practices, affected communities may not afford the resources required to implement them. Also, there are no widely acceptable and affordable insecticides for treatment of tungiasis in animals. Extension services aiming at increasing awareness on tungiasis and its control should be intensified. Also, available commercial insecticides should be evaluated for therapeutic and prophylactic properties against animal tungiasis.
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Deka MA. Mapping the Geographic Distribution of Tungiasis in Sub-Saharan Africa. Trop Med Infect Dis 2020; 5:E122. [PMID: 32722011 PMCID: PMC7558156 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed5030122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The geographic distribution of tungiasis is poorly understood, despite the frequent occurrence of the disease in marginalized populations of low socioeconomic status. To date, little work is available to define the geography of this neglected tropical disease (NTD). This exploratory study incorporated geostatistical modeling to map the suitability for tungiasis transmission in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). In SSA, environmental suitability is predicted in 44 countries, including Angola, Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Cote de Ivoire, Mali, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Gabon, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, and South Africa. In total, an estimated 668 million people live in suitable areas, 46% (304 million) of which reside in East Africa. These evidence-based maps provide vital evidence of the potential geographic extent of SSA. They will help to guide disease control programs, inform policymakers, and raise awareness at the global level. Likewise, these results will hopefully provide decisionmakers with the pertinent information necessary to lessen morbidity and mortality in communities located in environmentally suitable areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Deka
- Department of Geography, Texas State University; 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
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15
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Successful Treatment of Severe Tungiasis in Pigs Using a Topical Aerosol Containing Chlorfenvinphos, Dichlorphos and Gentian Violet. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0005056. [PMID: 27727268 PMCID: PMC5058476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In endemic communities, zoonotic tungiasis, a severe skin disease caused by penetrating female sand fleas, is a public health hazard causing significant human and animal morbidity. No validated drugs are currently available for treatment of animal tungiasis. Due to the reservoir in domestic animals, integrated management of human and animal tungiasis is required to avert its negative effects. Methods and principal findings A topical aerosol containing chlorfenvinphos 4.8%, dichlorphos 0.75% and gentian violet 0.145% licensed to treat tick infestations, myiasis and wound sepsis in animals in the study area, was tested for its potential tungicidal effects in a randomized controlled field trial against pig tungiasis in rural Uganda. Animals with at least one embedded flea were randomized in a treatment (n = 29) and a control (n = 26) group. One week after treatment, 58.6% of the treated pigs did not show any viable flea lesion whereas all control pigs had at least one viable lesion. After treatment the number of viable lesions (treated median = 0, overall range = 0–18 vs. control median = 11.5, range = 1–180) and the severity score for estimating acute pathology in pig tungiasis (treated median = 1, range = 0–3.5 vs. control median = 7, range = 0–25) were significantly lower in treated than in control pigs (p < 0.001). In the treatment group the median number of viable flea lesions decreased from 8.5 to 0 (p < 0.001). Similarly, the median acute severity score dropped from 6 to 1 (p < 0.001). Every pig in the treatment group showed a decrease in the number of viable fleas and tungiasis-associated acute morbidity while medians for both increased in the control group. Conclusions The study demonstrates that a topical treatment based on chlorfenvinphos, dichlorphos and gentian violet is highly effective against pig tungiasis. Due to its simplicity, the new approach can be used for the treatment of individual animals as well as in mass campaigns. Infection with the sand flea Tunga penetrans causes severe disease in humans and animals. There are no validated drugs for treatment of animal tungiasis preventing implementation of integrated tungiasis control interventions targeting human and animal infections. A field trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of a commercial insecticidal aerosol containing chlorfenvinphos 4.8%, dichlorphos 0.75%, and gentian violet 0.145%, which is licensed to treat tick infestations, myiasis and wound sepsis, on tungiasis in pigs, the major animal reservoir in rural hyperendemic villages in Uganda. Infected pigs were recruited and randomly assigned to treatment (n = 29) and control (n = 26) groups. Seven days after a single application of the aerosol onto the affected body parts, almost 60% of the treated pigs were cured while all control pigs had at least one penetrated sand flea. The number of viable sand fleas and the severity of the tungiasis were significantly lower in the treated pigs than in the controls. This demonstrates for the first time that a simple and effective topical treatment for animal tungiasis based on two organophosphate insecticides and an antibacterial agent can be used to cure individual animals and can be integrated in tungiasis control campaigns.
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Wafula ST, Ssemugabo C, Namuhani N, Musoke D, Ssempebwa J, Halage AA. Prevalence and risk factors associated with tungiasis in Mayuge district, Eastern Uganda. Pan Afr Med J 2016; 24:77. [PMID: 27642416 PMCID: PMC5012786 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2016.24.77.8916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tungiasis is an endemic but neglected health problem in Uganda especially in resource poor communities. It is largely affecting rural communities in the Eastern, West Nile and Central regions. This study assessed prevalence and risk factors associated with tungiasis in Mayuge district, Eastern Uganda. Methods This was a cross sectional study that used a semi-structured questionnaire and observational checklist to collect quantitative data from 422 households in 12 villages. Prevalence of tungiasis was defined as presence of Tunga penetrans in the skin of any household member at the time of data collection. Results The prevalence of tungiasis was 22.5%. However, a big percentage 41.5% of households were reported to have had T. penetrans in the previous month while 49.5% had T. penetrans for more than one month. Majority (90.5%)of the participants used a pin, needle, or thorn to remove sand flea from infected body parts. Having dirty feet (AOR 3.86, CI (1.76-8.34)), dirty clothes (AOR 3.46, CI (2.00-5.97)), cracked house floor (AOR =6.28, CI (3.28-12.03)), dirty floor (AOR 3.21, CI (1.38-7.46)), littered compounds (AOR= 2.95, CI (1.66-5.26)) and rearing cattle (AOR 2.38, CI (1.28-4.45)) were associated with tungiasis. However, practicing preventive measures (AOR 0.51, CI (0.29-0.90)) was found protective for disease. Conclusion Tungiasis is still a prevalent health problem in rural communities in Eastern Uganda due to a number of individual (host) and environmental factors. There is need to increase awareness regarding improvement in sanitation and hygiene to enable communities’ implements interventions for prevention of T. penetrans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Tsebeni Wafula
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Ssemugabo
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noel Namuhani
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Musoke
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Ssempebwa
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Abdullah Ali Halage
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Shinsugi C, Matsumura M, Karama M, Tanaka J, Changoma M, Kaneko S. Factors associated with stunting among children according to the level of food insecurity in the household: a cross-sectional study in a rural community of Southeastern Kenya. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:441. [PMID: 25924925 PMCID: PMC4428099 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-1802-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic malnutrition or stunting among children under 5 years old is affected by several household environmental factors, such as food insecurity, disease burden, and poverty. However, not all children experience stunting even in food insecure conditions. To seek a solution at the local level for preventing stunting, a cross-sectional study was conducted in southeastern Kenya, an area with a high level of food insecurity. Methods The study was based on a cohort organized to monitor the anthropometric status of children. A structured questionnaire collected information on the following: demographic characteristics, household food security based on the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), household socioeconomic status (SES), and child health status. The associations between stunting and potential predictors were examined by bivariate and multivariate stepwise logistic regression analyses. Furthermore, analyses stratified by level of food security were conducted to specify factors associated with child stunting in different food insecure groups. Results Among 404 children, the prevalence of stunting was 23.3%. The percentage of households with severe food insecurity was 62.5%. In multivariative analysis, there was no statistically significant association with child stunting. However, further analyses conducted separately according to level of food security showed the following significant associations: in the severely food insecure households, feeding tea/porridge with milk (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR]: 3.22; 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI]: 1.43-7.25); age 2 to 3 years compared with 0 to 5 months old (aOR: 4.04; 95% CI: 1.01-16.14); in households without severe food insecurity, animal rearing (aOR: 3.24; 95% CI: 1.04-10.07); SES with lowest status as reference (aOR range: from 0.13 to 0.22). The number of siblings younger than school age was not significantly associated, but was marginally associated in the latter household group (aOR: 2.81; 95% CI: 0.92-8.58). Conclusions Our results suggest that measures against childhood stunting should be optimized according to food security level observed in each community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chisa Shinsugi
- Graduate School of International Health Development, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan. .,Department of Human Ecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Masaki Matsumura
- Graduate School of International Health Development, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan. .,Liaison Center for International Education, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.
| | - Mohamed Karama
- Graduate School of International Health Development, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan. .,Centre for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Junichi Tanaka
- Department of Eco-epidemiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan. .,Department of Nursing, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.
| | - Mwatasa Changoma
- Nagasaki University Institute of Tropical Medicine (NUITM) - Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Project, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Satoshi Kaneko
- Graduate School of International Health Development, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan. .,Department of Eco-epidemiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
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Rabinowitz PM, Kock R, Kachani M, Kunkel R, Thomas J, Gilbert J, Wallace R, Blackmore C, Wong D, Karesh W, Natterson B, Dugas R, Rubin C. Toward proof of concept of a one health approach to disease prediction and control. Emerg Infect Dis 2014; 19. [PMID: 24295136 PMCID: PMC3840882 DOI: 10.3201/eid1912.130265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
A One Health approach considers the role of changing environments with regard to infectious and chronic disease risks affecting humans and nonhuman animals. Recent disease emergence events have lent support to a One Health approach. In 2010, the Stone Mountain Working Group on One Health Proof of Concept assembled and evaluated the evidence regarding proof of concept of the One Health approach to disease prediction and control. Aspects examined included the feasibility of integrating human, animal, and environmental health and whether such integration could improve disease prediction and control efforts. They found evidence to support each of these concepts but also identified the need for greater incorporation of environmental and ecosystem factors into disease assessments and interventions. The findings of the Working Group argue for larger controlled studies to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of the One Health approach.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Tungiasis is endemic in poverty-stricken communities of South and Central America, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. This ectoparasitosis, caused by the female sand flea Tunga penetrans, is associated with considerable longterm morbidity in severely affected patients, including toe deformation and limited mobility. In Haiti, tungiasis is poorly documented but is known to occur. This study is the first formal investigation of tungiasis in Haiti. METHODS A total of 383 patients in four regions (Belle Fontaine, Vallue, Savanette, Cerca Carvajal) were examined and interviewed to determine disease prevalence, demographics and clinical presentation, and tungiasis-related behaviors. RESULTS Prevalences of tungiasis ranged from 10.6 to 81.8% across the four regions. The overall prevalence of tungiasis in the patients examined was 31.1%. Of the affected patients, 63% were male and 37% were female, 37% were aged 0-10 years, and 100% reported pain and pruritus. Lesions occurred on the feet in 93.3% and on the hands in 22.7% of affected patients. The most common complications observed were chronic inflammation (54.2%) and hyperkeratosis (48.2%). CONCLUSIONS This study establishes tungiasis as endemic in four regions of Haiti and reveals disease characteristics similar to those reported previously, suggesting that there are common factors underlying this disease in various regions, which are likely to be poverty-related. These findings emphasize the need to acknowledge tungiasis as a clinically relevant public health issue in order to decrease the frequency of tungiasis-related morbidity in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shesly J Louis
- Department of Dermatology, Hôpital Universitaire la Paix (State University Hospital la Paix), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
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Kamimura-Nishimura K, Rudikoff D, Purswani M, Hagmann S. Dermatological conditions in international pediatric travelers: Epidemiology, prevention and management. Travel Med Infect Dis 2013; 11:350-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2013] [Revised: 09/30/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Buckendahl J, Heukelbach J, Witt L, Schwalfenberg S, Calheiros CML, Feldmeier H. Topographic distribution of the sand flea Tunga penetrans in Wistar rats and humans in two endemic areas in Brazil. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2012; 87:125-7. [PMID: 22764302 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.2012.11-0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Tungiasis is a zoonosis caused by Tunga penetrans. In Brazil, tungiasis is endemic in many resource-poor communities, in which various domestic and sylvatic animals act as reservoirs. Eighty laboratory-raised Wistar rats were exposed to T. penetrans in areas of intense transmission: a fishing village and an urban shantytown in Ceará State, northeast Brazil. The topographic distribution of lesions in Wistar rats was compared with the distribution of lesions in humans in the same area. Our results show that the topographic distribution of embedded sand fleas was almost identical in Wistar rats and humans and that lesions were confined to the feet. In humans, 76% of all lesions were located periungually, whereas in Wistar rats, 67% of lesions were located at the distal end of the digits (P = 0.73). Both had the majority of lesions at the toes and digits: 70.2% versus 65.7% (P = 0.79). The Wistar rat model mirrors human tungiasis in topographic distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Buckendahl
- Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité University of Medicine, Berlin, Germany.
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Mazigo HD, Bahemana E, Konje ET, Dyegura O, Mnyone LL, Kweka EJ, Kidenya BR, Heukelbach J. Jigger flea infestation (tungiasis) in rural western Tanzania: high prevalence and severe morbidity. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2012; 106:259-63. [PMID: 22305586 DOI: 10.1016/j.trstmh.2011.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2010] [Revised: 12/01/2011] [Accepted: 12/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiologic and clinical data on the parasitic skin disease tungiasis are limited from sub-Saharan Africa, and virtually nonexistent from the East African region. We performed a community-based cross-sectional study in two villages in Kasulu district, western Tanzania. Study participants were examined for the presence of tungiasis and disease-associated morbidity. In total, 586 individuals >5 years of age were enrolled, and 249 (42.5%; 95% CI: 38.5-46.5) diagnosed with tungiasis. The ≥45 year-olds showed highest prevalence of tungiasis (71.1%) and most severe parasite load (median number of embedded fleas: 17.5; interquartile range: 15-22.5). Prevalence was slightly, but not significantly, higher in males than in females (45.3 vs 39.7%; p=0.17). Itching (68.3%), pain (38.6%) and ulcers (30.1%) were common; 22.1% of individuals found it difficult to walk due to tungiasis, and in 21.3% loss of toenails was observed. Considering the high prevalence and considerable morbidity in the population, we conclude that tungiasis is a public health threat in the study villages and that the disease needs to be recognized by health authorities. Future studies on risk factors, animal reservoirs and evidence-based control measures are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- H D Mazigo
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Weill-Bugando University College of Health Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
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Lefebvre M, Capito C, Durant C, Hervier B, Grossi O. Tungiasis: a poorly documented tropical dermatosis. Med Mal Infect 2011; 41:465-8. [PMID: 21703785 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2011.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2010] [Revised: 02/16/2011] [Accepted: 05/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Tungiasis is the parasitic skin disease caused by the sand flea Tunga penetrans, also called the jigger flea, found in most intertropical countries. The contamination occurs when walking barefoot in the sand: adult females actively burrow the foot epidermis leading to self-limited lesions responsible for itching or pain. The diagnosis is made on clinical observation and history of travelling to an endemic country. The simple treatment is surgical extraction of the flea.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Lefebvre
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, CHU Nantes, 1 place Alexis-Ricordeau, Nantes cedex 1, France.
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Ariza L, Wilcke T, Jackson A, Gomide M, Ugbomoiko US, Feldmeier H, Heukelbach J. A simple method for rapid community assessment of tungiasis. Trop Med Int Health 2010; 15:856-64. [PMID: 20497406 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2010.02545.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate a rapid assessment method to estimate the overall prevalence of tungiasis and severity of disease in endemic communities. METHODS We analysed data from 10 population-based surveys on tungiasis, performed in five endemic communities in Brazil and Nigeria between 2001 and 2008. To assess the association between occurrence of tungiasis on six defined topographic areas of the feet and the true prevalence/prevalence of severe disease, linear regression analyses were performed. Estimated prevalences were calculated for each of the 10 surveys and compared to true prevalences. We then selected the most useful topographic localization to define a rapid assessment method, based on the strength of association and operational aspects. RESULTS In total, 7121 individuals of the five communities were examined. Prevalence of tungiasis varied between 21.1% and 54.4%. The presence of periungual lesions on the toes was identified as the most useful rapid assessment to estimate the prevalence of tungiasis (absolute errors: -4% to +3.6%; R(2 )=96%; P < 0.0001). Prevalence of severe tungiasis (>20 lesions) was also estimated by the method (absolute errors: -3.1% to +2.5%; R(2 )=76%; P = 0.001). CONCLUSION Prevalence of tungiasis and prevalence of severe disease can be reliably estimated in communities with distinct cultural and geographical characteristics, by applying a simple and rapid epidemiological method. This approach will help to detect high-risk communities and to monitor control measures aimed at the reduction of tungiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Ariza
- Post-Graduation Program in Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
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Hakeem M, Morris AK, Bhattacharyya D, Fox C. Tungiasis – A cause of painful feet in a tropical traveller. Travel Med Infect Dis 2010; 8:29-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2009.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2009] [Revised: 10/23/2009] [Accepted: 11/02/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Kurt O, Balcioğlu IC, Burgess IF, Limoncu ME, Girginkardeşler N, Tabak T, Muslu H, Ermiş O, Sahin MT, Bilac C, Kavur H, Ozbel Y. Treatment of head lice with dimeticone 4% lotion: comparison of two formulations in a randomised controlled trial in rural Turkey. BMC Public Health 2009; 9:441. [PMID: 19951427 PMCID: PMC2794865 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-9-441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2009] [Accepted: 12/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dimeticone 4% lotion was shown to be an effective treatment for head louse infestation in two randomised controlled trials in England. It is not affected by insecticide resistance but efficacy obtained (70-75%) was lower than expected. This study was designed to evaluate efficacy of dimeticone 4% lotion in a geographically, socially, and culturally different setting, in rural Turkey and, in order to achieve blinding, it was compared with a potential alternative formulation. METHODS Children from two village schools were screened for head lice by detection combing. All infested students and family members could participate, giving access to treatment for the whole community. Two investigator applied treatments were given 7 days apart. Outcome was assessed by detection combing three times between treatments and twice the week following second treatment. RESULTS In the intention to treat group 35/36 treated using dimeticone 4% had no lice after the second treatment but there were two protocol violators giving 91.7% treatment success. The alternative product gave 30/36 (83.3%) treatment success, a difference of 8.4% (95% CI -9.8% to 26.2%). The cure rates per-protocol were 33/34 (97.1%) and 30/35 (85.7%) respectively. We were unable to find any newly emerged louse nymphs on 77.8% of dimeticone 4% treated participants or on 66.7% of those treated with the alternative formulation. No adverse events were identified. CONCLUSION Our results confirm the efficacy of dimeticone 4% lotion against lice and eggs and we found no detectable difference between this product and dimeticone 4% lotion with nerolidol 2% added. We believe that the high cure rate was related to the lower intensity of infestation in Turkey, together with the level of community engagement, compared with previous studies in the UK. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN10431107.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozgür Kurt
- Celal Bayar University Medical School, Department of Parasitology, Manisa, Turkey.
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Nenoff P, Handrick W, Krüger C, Herrmann J, Schmoranzer B, Paasch U. [Ectoparasites. Part 1: lice and fleas]. Hautarzt 2009; 60:663-71; quiz 672-3. [PMID: 19633823 DOI: 10.1007/s00105-008-1502-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Ectoparasites and epidermal parasitic skin diseases are a heterogeneous group of infections of the external layer of the skin. The most common forms world-wide are scabies, lice (Pediculosis capitis, corporis, vestimentorum and pubis), tungiasis and the hookworm-associated Larva migrans cutanea. The head louse is the most widespread parasite in children in Germany. The symptoms, apart from pruritus, eczematous skin eruptions and ictus reactions of the skin, are often unspecific and many differential diagnoses must be considered. Treatment of ectoparasites includes manual procedures, such as repeated cleansing and combing out of lice-infected hair and also local antiparasitic treatment with permethrin, pyrethrum extract, allethrin and dimeticon. Lindan which has been used for decades can no longer be used in medications after 2008 after a decision of the EU Commission. Failure of treatment of head lice can be a result of errors in the treatment which favor survival of the eggs, larvae or adults. This can be a result of too short reaction times and too economical use or unequal distribution of medications, excessive dilution due to wet hair or omitting repeated treatment stages. Additionally resistance of head lice to pyrethrum is a known phenomenon and has been reported in several countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Nenoff
- Haut- und Laborarzt/Allergologie, Andrologie, Laboratorium für medizinische Mikrobiologie, Str. des Friedens 8, 04579 Mölbis.
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