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Owens LA, Friant S, Martorelli Di Genova B, Knoll LJ, Contreras M, Noya-Alarcon O, Dominguez-Bello MG, Goldberg TL. VESPA: an optimized protocol for accurate metabarcoding-based characterization of vertebrate eukaryotic endosymbiont and parasite assemblages. Nat Commun 2024; 15:402. [PMID: 38195557 PMCID: PMC10776621 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44521-3] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Protocols for characterizing taxonomic assemblages by deep sequencing of short DNA barcode regions (metabarcoding) have revolutionized our understanding of microbial communities and are standardized for bacteria, archaea, and fungi. Unfortunately, comparable methods for host-associated eukaryotes have lagged due to technical challenges. Despite 54 published studies, issues remain with primer complementarity, off-target amplification, and lack of external validation. Here, we present VESPA (Vertebrate Eukaryotic endoSymbiont and Parasite Analysis) primers and optimized metabarcoding protocol for host-associated eukaryotic community analysis. Using in silico prediction, panel PCR, engineered mock community standards, and clinical samples, we demonstrate VESPA to be more effective at resolving host-associated eukaryotic assemblages than previously published methods and to minimize off-target amplification. When applied to human and non-human primate samples, VESPA enables reconstruction of host-associated eukaryotic endosymbiont communities more accurately and at finer taxonomic resolution than microscopy. VESPA has the potential to advance basic and translational science on vertebrate eukaryotic endosymbiont communities, similar to achievements made for bacterial, archaeal, and fungal microbiomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah A Owens
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Sagan Friant
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Anthropology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Bruno Martorelli Di Genova
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Larner College of Medicine, The University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Laura J Knoll
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Monica Contreras
- Center for Biophysics and Biochemistry, Venezuelan Institute of Scientific Research (IVIC), Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Oscar Noya-Alarcon
- Centro Amazónico de Investigación y Control de Enfermedades Tropicales-CAICET, Puerto Ayacucho, Amazonas, Venezuela
| | - Maria G Dominguez-Bello
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Department of Anthropology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tony L Goldberg
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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Lowe A, Callis A, DiGirolamo A, Girard AW, Boakye A, Ogutu E, Omosa E, Okeyo F, Odollo L, Samburu B, Arimi C, Kamudoni P, Gonzalez W, Codjia P, Kiige L. Evidence-based complementary feeding recipe book for Kenyan caregivers: A novel approach. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2024; 20 Suppl 3:e13475. [PMID: 37789710 PMCID: PMC10782138 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
The Kenyan Ministry of Health (MOH) and a consortium of nutritionists, researchers and communication, and design specialists developed a novel approach to create an evidence-based recipe book promoting complementary feeding (CF) in Kenya. The ADAPT approach includes five steps: applied research (A), dialogue with stakeholders (D), adapted behaviour change communication (BCC) theories (A), purpose-driven visual communication (P), and tailoring to priority audiences (T). Through this approach, the recipe book addresses key knowledge gaps using behaviour change theories and visual communication best practice to increase accessibility, acceptability, retention and motivation for behaviour change. The book addresses barriers to CF identified through formative applied research. Dialogue with stakeholders helped ensure cultural appropriateness and the book's alignment with MOH recommendations and key messages. The book uses behaviour change theories to approach the reader in a respectful way that motivates behaviour change. The use of consistent, purpose-driven visuals helps ensure key messages are easily understood and accessible to all caregivers regardless of literacy level. The book's tone and content are tailored to its audiences' attributes, needs and preferences. This five-step process inspired the development of ADAPT, a novel approach that integrates behaviour change and visual communication for greater impact. This paper outlines how the consortium used the ADAPT approach to develop an evidence-based book that thoughtfully and holistically addresses a wide range of barriers, provides practical solutions and increases self-efficacy around CF. It offers a blueprint for public health practitioners from any field who are interested in using visual behaviour change communication to promote healthy behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Lowe
- Georgia Health Policy CenterGeorgia State UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | | | - Ann DiGirolamo
- Georgia Health Policy CenterGeorgia State UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Amy W. Girard
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Amma Boakye
- Georgia Health Policy CenterGeorgia State UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Emily Ogutu
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Esther Omosa
- International Livestock Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Frida Okeyo
- Department of Community Health and Development, School of Public HealthGreat Lakes University of KisumuNairobiKenya
| | - Lawrence Odollo
- Department of Community Health and Development, School of Public HealthGreat Lakes University of KisumuNairobiKenya
| | - Betty Samburu
- United Nations Children's Fund Kenya Country OfficeNairobiKenya
| | | | | | | | - Patrick Codjia
- United Nations Children's Fund Kenya Country OfficeNairobiKenya
| | - Laura Kiige
- United Nations Children's Fund Kenya Country OfficeNairobiKenya
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Mukutmoni M, Liza FT, Parvin RA, Nath TC. Perceptions and practices of urban slum-dwelling women concerning soil-transmitted helminths infections in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2023; 21:e00291. [PMID: 36875174 PMCID: PMC9982025 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2023.e00291] [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: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) infections are still attributed to a significant part of mortality and disabilities in developing nations. This study aimed at exploring the perceptions and practices concerning STH and to assess the associated risk of infections among slum-dwelling women of Dhaka South City Corporations (DSCC), Bangladesh. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in two selected slums (Malibagh and Lalbagh) of DSCC, Bangladesh, from September 2020 to February 2021. A total of 206 women participants were requested to provide stool samples, followed by a semi-structured questionnaire survey. Parasitological assessment was done by the formol-ether concentration (FEC) technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and p-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was estimated using logistic regression analysis to examine the association between explanatory and outcome factors. Results In total, 36 (17.5%) STH infections were observed out of 206 examined participants. Among the STH, Trichuris trichiura showed the highest prevalence (10.7%), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (5.3%). Lack of formal education, overcrowded living, large family sizes, and using shared toilets were significantly associated with STH infections. Irregular nail cutting (AOR = 3.12), irregular soap usage after toilet (AOR = 2.98), wearing no shoes (AOR = 4.64), and failing to teach kids to wash their hands (AOR = 3.87) were revealed as practice concerns linked to high STH prevalence. Women, who had never heard about STH (AOR = 2.42) and had no misconceptions regarding STH (AOR = 1.94) were positively related to STH infection in this study. Conclusion Slum-dwelling women in Bangladesh still had a substantial infection of STH. Most of the communities under study were unaware of parasite infection and its negative effects on health. Revision of the policy of ongoing anthelmintic distribution programs and widespread health education programs are recommended aimed at controlling STH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tilak Chandra Nath
- Department of Parasitology, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh
- Corresponding author.
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Ekobol N, Boonjaraspinyo S, Artchayasawat A, Boonmars T. Monks: A Population at Risk for Liver Fluke and Skin-Penetrating Helminths. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8030135. [PMID: 36977136 PMCID: PMC10059027 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8030135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Monks cannot cook received raw meat dishes and should walk barefoot while working. This population lacks both a survey of parasitic infection and a proper prevention and control policy. Five hundred and fourteen monks from the Ubolratana, Ban Haet, and Ban Phai Districts of Kh on Kaen Province were enrolled in this study. A stool container and questionnaire were collected from each study participant. Stool samples were processed by formalin ethyl acetate concentration and agar plate culture techniques. We then analyzed the results and risk factors to demonstrate associations. The prevalence of overall parasites, liver flukes, and skin-penetrating helminths were 28.8%, 11.1%, and 19.3%, respectively. Raw fish dish offerings were associated with opisthorchiasis (ORcrude 3.32; 95% CI 1.53–7.20). The risk factors for skin-penetrating helminths were older age (ORcrude 5.02; 95% CI 2.2–11.17), being a long-term ordinate (ORcrude 3.28; 95% CI 1.15–9.34), smoking (ORcrude 2.03; 95% CI 1.23–3.36), and chronic kidney disease with other underlying disease (ORcrude 20.7; 95% CI 2.54–190.1). The protective factors for skin-penetrating helminths were secular education above primary education (ORcrude 0.41; 95% CI 0.25–0.65) and having received health education about parasitic infection (ORcrude 0.47; 95% CI 0.28–0.80). Wearing shoes at times other than alms work does not show a protective effect against skin-penetrating helminths (ORcrude 0.86; 95% CI 0.51–1.46). These findings support the recommendation for a strict Rule of Discipline regarding raw meat ingestion and allowing shoes to be worn for protection against skin-penetrating helminths in high-risk situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuttapon Ekobol
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Sirintip Boonjaraspinyo
- Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Department of Community Medicine, Family Medicine and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Atchara Artchayasawat
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Thidarut Boonmars
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +66-43-363-434
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Ganguly S, Barkataki S, Sanga P, Boopathi K, Kanagasabai K, Devika S, Karmakar S, Chowdhury P, Sarkar R, Raj D, James L, Dutta S, Campbell SJ, Murhekar M. Epidemiology of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections among Primary School Children in the States of Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Tripura, India, 2015-2016. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 107:tpmd211185. [PMID: 35576946 PMCID: PMC9294677 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-1185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are highly prevalent in many developing countries, affecting the poorest and most deprived communities. We conducted school-based surveys among children studying in first to fifth standard in government schools in the Indian States of Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Tripura to estimate the prevalence and intensity of STH infections during November 2015 and January 2016. We adopted a two-stage cluster sampling design, with a random selection of districts within each agro-climatic zone in the first stage. In the second stage, government primary schools were selected by probability proportional to size method from the selected districts. We collected information about demographic details, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) characteristics and stool samples from the school children. Stool samples were tested using Kato-Katz method. Stool samples from 3,313 school children (Chhattisgarh: 1,442, Telangana: 1,443, and Tripura: 428) were examined. The overall prevalence of any STH infection was 80.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 73.3-85.7) in Chhattisgarh, 60.7% (95% CI: 53.8-67.2) in Telangana, and 59.8% (95% CI: 49.0-69.7) in Tripura. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent STH infection in all three states. Most of the STH infections were of light intensity. Our study findings indicate that STH infections were highly prevalent among the school children in Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Tripura, indicating the need for strengthening STH control program in these states. The prevalence estimates from the survey would serve as a baseline for documenting the impact of the National Deworming Day programs in these states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandipan Ganguly
- ICMR-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata, India
| | | | | | - K. Boopathi
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, Chennai, India
| | | | | | - Sumallya Karmakar
- ICMR-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata, India
| | - Punam Chowdhury
- ICMR-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata, India
| | - Rituparna Sarkar
- ICMR-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata, India
| | - Dibyendu Raj
- ICMR-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Shanta Dutta
- ICMR-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata, India
| | - Suzy J. Campbell
- Deworm the World Initiative, Evidence Action, Brisbane, Australia
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Muñoz-Antoli C, Pérez P, Pavón A, Toledo R, Esteban JG. High intestinal parasite infection detected in children from Región Autónoma Atlántico Norte (R.A.A.N.) of Nicaragua. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5872. [PMID: 35393466 PMCID: PMC8990018 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09756-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a lack of epidemiological information concerning intestinal parasitic infections, and especially in soil-transmitted helminths, occurring in some departments of Nicaragua. Up to now, this is the first study involving two nearby areas (Puerto Cabezas and Siuna municipalities) of the Región Autónoma Atlántico Norte (R.A.A.N.). One stool sample was analyzed by Kato-Katz, formaldehyde-ethyl acetate concentration method and modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique, and a simple questionnaire concerning demographic, sanitary and behavioral data was distributed among 735 children and evaluated. Overall prevalence of infection reached 97.0%, being the highest prevalences detected in all Nicaragua. The higher protozoan prevalence appears in Siuna (94.5%), a rural interior municipality, with a typical tropical monsoon climate, while the higher helminths rates were reached in Puerto Cabezas (92.8%), the urbanized coastal capital, with a typical tropical rainforest climate. No statistical differences were found with regard to sex. However, the 6-11-year age-group children presented the highest prevalences. Most T. trichiura infections (59.4%) were of light intensity, while 51.7% of Ascaris lumbricoides were of moderate intensity. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that those who drink rainwater and walk barefoot were 2.9 and 2.5 times more likely to have helminth infections, respectively. Results from one geographical setting might not be applied to other nearby with different climatic conditions. The use of anthelmintic drugs only will not be sufficient to bring prevalence to low levels. It is necessary to design geographically more specific intervention, with communication and interaction between different disciplines (e.g. parasitology, biochemistry, molecular biology, epidemiology, public health, etc.) being imperative to reduce STH infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Muñoz-Antoli
- Área Parasitología, Departamento Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica y Parasitología, Facultad Farmacia, Universidad Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Paloma Pérez
- Área Parasitología, Departamento Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica y Parasitología, Facultad Farmacia, Universidad Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Aleyda Pavón
- Departamento Bioanálisis Clínico, Instituto Politécnico de La Salud (IPS-Polisal), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua, Managua, Nicaragua
| | - Rafael Toledo
- Área Parasitología, Departamento Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica y Parasitología, Facultad Farmacia, Universidad Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - José Guillermo Esteban
- Área Parasitología, Departamento Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica y Parasitología, Facultad Farmacia, Universidad Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Dagnaw A, Sahlie M, Mulugeta H, Shine S, Bediru W, Zebene A, Weldetensay Y, Abebe AM. Magnitude of Intestinal Parasite Infection and Associated Factors Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Service in Shewarobit Town Health Facilities, North Shoa Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:4921-4930. [PMID: 34853520 PMCID: PMC8627855 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s338326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Intestinal parasites are the most common infectious gastrointestinal parasites in developing countries including Ethiopia. Globally, it remains a public health problem by affecting 3.2 billion people, of which 10% were pregnant women. In Sub-Saharan Africa, pregnant women are the risky group next to children for this infection. This study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of intestinal parasite infection among pregnant women. Methods Facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 365 pregnant women attending antenatal care service in Shewarobit town health facilities, North Shoa Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Data were collected using an interview questionnaire and laboratory microscopic stool examination from February 1, 2020, to March 30, 2020. Descriptive statistics and multivariable analyses were used to characterize the data and to identify the associated factors with the outcome variable at a p-value <0.05, respectively. Results A total of 347 (95.1%) pregnant women participated in this study. The magnitude of intestinal parasite infection was 27.7% during the study period. Among the parasites, G. lamblia and S. mansoni were the most prevalent identified parasites. Pregnant mother, who did not have handwashing practice after using the toilet [AOR: 3.89, 95% CI (1.86–8.13)], had a habit of walking on barefoot [AOR: 5.65, 95% CI (1.72, 18.56)], had uncooked food meal habit [AOR: 5.12, 95% CI (1.24, 21.14)], use of water in unimproved water source [AOR: 3.20, 95% CI (1.11–9.24)], lack of health education [AOR: 4.08, 95% CI (2.01–8.27)], and not dewormed [AOR: 3.09, 95% CI (2.01–7.94)] were predictors for parasitic infection. Conclusion High prevalence of intestinal parasite infection is observed in pregnant women. Personal hygiene practice, health education, and water quality were factors identified as contributors to intestinal parasite infection in pregnant women. Public health measures on water and environmental sanitation, health education for intestinal parasite infection and personal hygiene practices, and early deworming are vital to reduce the intestinal parasites’ infection and assure safe pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abinet Dagnaw
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | | | - Hailemichael Mulugeta
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Sisay Shine
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Woinshet Bediru
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Asmare Zebene
- Shewarobit Health Center, North Shoa Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | | | - Ayele Mamo Abebe
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
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Kim SH, Stothard JR, Rinamalo M, Rainima-Qaniuci M, Talemaitoga N, Kama M, Rafai E, Jang S, Kim JY, Oh YM, Kim EM, Hong ST, Lowry JH, Verweij JJ, Kelly-Hope LA, Choi MH. A first nation-wide assessment of soil-transmitted helminthiasis in Fijian primary schools, and factors associated with the infection, using a lymphatic filariasis transmission assessment survey as surveillance platform. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008511. [PMID: 32976499 PMCID: PMC7518615 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) is endemic in Fiji but its prevalence is not known and likely to have changed after a decade of mass drug administration (MDA) for lymphatic filariasis (LF). By linking with LF transmission assessment surveys (LF-TAS), we undertook the first nation-wide assessment of STH in Fijian primary schools, as well as an analysis of factors associated with STH infections. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A cross-sectional assessment for STH was conducted in all four Divisions of Fiji from 2014 to 2015. In the Western, Central, and Northern Divisions, schools were sub-sampled after LF-TAS, while, in the Eastern Division, schools were selected via simple random sampling. For the diagnosis of STH, stool samples were examined by coproscopy with a single Kato-Katz thick smear (KK) and the formol-ether-acetate concentration technique, except for the samples from the Eastern Division where only KK was used. Mean prevalence of any STH among class 1-2 students at the national level was 10.5% (95% CI: 6.9-15.5). Across the three Divisions via LF-TAS, the prevalence levels for ascariasis were 8.7% (95% CI: 4.3-16.6), hookworm 3.9% (95% CI: 2.3-6.6) and trichuriasis 0%. In the Eastern Division, ascariasis prevalence was 13.3% (95% CI: 6.4-25.6), and hookworm 0.7% (95% CI: 0.2-2.5), with one case of trichuriasis. Among class 3-8 students, ascariasis prevalence was lower. Lower risk of any STH was associated with wearing shoes (adjusted OR 0.54, 95% CI: 0.32-0.90) and having piped water from the Fiji Water Authority at home (adjusted OR 0.48, 95% CI: 0.25-0.92). CONCLUSIONS After a decade of community-based LF-MDA, STH in school-age children in Fiji is now close to 10%, but localities of endemicity remain. Preventive chemotherapy should be maintained in areas with elevated STH prevalence alongside targeted delivery of integrated WASH interventions. LF-TAS has provided an opportunity to develop future public health surveillance platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Hye Kim
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - J. Russell Stothard
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Mike Kama
- Ministry of Health, Dinem House, Suva, Republic of Fiji
| | - Eric Rafai
- Ministry of Health, Dinem House, Suva, Republic of Fiji
| | - Seoyun Jang
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology and Institute of Endemic Diseases, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Young Kim
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology and Institute of Endemic Diseases, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yoo Min Oh
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology and Institute of Endemic Diseases, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun-Min Kim
- Department of Environmental Medical Biology and Arthropods of Medical Importance Resource Research Bank, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Tae Hong
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology and Institute of Endemic Diseases, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - John H. Lowry
- School of Geography, Earth Science, and Environment, The University of South Pacific, Suva, Republic of Fiji
| | - Jaco J. Verweij
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Elisabeth Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Louise A. Kelly-Hope
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Min-Ho Choi
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology and Institute of Endemic Diseases, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Dawaki S, Al-Mekhlafi HM, Ithoi I. The burden and epidemiology of polyparasitism among rural communities in Kano State, Nigeria. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2020; 113:169-182. [PMID: 30551211 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/try128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parasitic infections constitute a major public health problem worldwide, particularly among underprivileged communities in developing countries including Nigeria. The present study aimed to determine the epidemiology of polyparasitism (multiple parasitic infections) among rural communities in Kano State, North Central Nigeria. METHODS A total of 551 individuals were screened for the presence of intestinal, urogenital and blood parasites by using different diagnostic techniques. Demographic, socioeconomic, household and behavioural characteristics were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. RESULTS Overall, 84.0% (463/551) of the participants were found to be infected with at least one parasite species, with 51.2% (282/551) of them having polyparasitism. The most prevalent parasites were Plasmodium falciparum (60.6%) followed by Blastocystis sp. (29.2%) and hookworm (15.4%). No significant association was found between malaria and helminth infections (p>0.05). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that the presence of other family members who had intestinal polyparasitism (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=4.12; 95% CI=2.72, 6.24), walking barefoot outside (AOR=1.70; 95% CI=1.09, 2.63) and being male (AOR=1.74; 95% CI=1.14, 2.66) were the significant risk factors of intestinal polyparasitism among the population studied. CONCLUSION Polyparasitism is highly prevalent among rural communities in Kano State. Therefore, effective, sustainable and integrated control measures should be identified and implemented to significantly reduce the burden and consequences of these infections in rural Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salwa Dawaki
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,School of Health Technology, Club Road, Nassarawa, Kano, Kano State, Nigeria
| | - Hesham M Al-Mekhlafi
- Medical Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Init Ithoi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Haldeman MS, Nolan MS, Ng'habi KRN. Human hookworm infection: Is effective control possible? A review of hookworm control efforts and future directions. Acta Trop 2020; 201:105214. [PMID: 31600519 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Human hookworm, a soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection caused by either Necator americanus or Anclystoma duodenale, is a major cause of morbidity globally and predominantly affects the world's poorest populations. Transmitted primarily by larval invasion of exposed skin, the adults inhabit the host small intestine, where they consume host blood. The resultant chronic iron deficiency anemia can lead to stunted growth and cognitive deficits in children, reduced work capacity in adults, and a variety of pregnancy complications. Historically, successful STH elimination has only been achieved in regions with concomitant significant economic growth. Since 2001, control of the STHs has been attempted via single-dose mass deworming of at-risk school-aged and preschool-aged children within STH-endemic countries, with the goal of morbidity reduction. Research questioning this strategy has grown in recent years, and current studies are evaluating the effectiveness of novel deworming strategies, including multidrug regimens and expansion of deworming to entire communities. While footwear campaigns may be associated with reduced odds of hookworm infection, the evidence supporting the impact of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions upon hookworm is mixed. Progress towards a human hookworm vaccine continues, with promising results from recent Phase 1 trials and several others ongoing. Integrated STH control programs, which combine mass deworming with WASH interventions, are relatively unstudied but may be a promising advancement. Whether interruption of STH transmission can be achieved apart from significant economic growth remains unanswered, but likely the implementation of intensive, integrated control programs will be necessary to achieve that goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Haldeman
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA; Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA.
| | - Melissa S Nolan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kija R N Ng'habi
- Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Dar Es Salaam, Mbeya, Tanzania
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Tinkler SH. Preventive chemotherapy and anthelmintic resistance of soil-transmitted helminths - Can we learn nothing from veterinary medicine? One Health 2019; 9:100106. [PMID: 31956691 PMCID: PMC6957790 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2019.100106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Current parasite control programs in veterinary species have moved away from mass anthelmintic treatment approaches due to the emergence of significant anthelmintic resistance (AR), and the availability of few classes of anthelmintics. A number of parallels between livestock and human helminths exist that warn of the risk of AR in human soil-transmitted helminthiases, yet current public health interventions continue to prioritize mass treatment strategies, a known risk factor for AR. This review discusses the existing parallels between human and animal helminth biology and management, along with current public health recommendations and strategies for helminth control in humans. The effectiveness of current recommendations and alternative management strategies are considered.
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Dacal E, Saugar JM, de Lucio A, Hernández-de-Mingo M, Robinson E, Köster PC, Aznar-Ruiz-de-Alegría ML, Espasa M, Ninda A, Gandasegui J, Sulleiro E, Moreno M, Salvador F, Molina I, Rodríguez E, Carmena D. Prevalence and molecular characterization of Strongyloides stercoralis, Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Blastocystis spp. isolates in school children in Cubal, Western Angola. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:67. [PMID: 29378626 PMCID: PMC5789528 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2640-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human infections by the gastrointestinal helminth Strongyloides stercoralis and the enteric protozoans Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis spp. are not formally included in the list of 20 neglected tropical diseases prioritised by the World Health Organization. Although largely underdiagnosed and considered of lower public health relevance, these infections have been increasingly demonstrated to cause significant morbidity and even mortality globally, particularly among children living in resource-poor settings. METHODS In this cross-sectional survey the prevalence, frequency and molecular diversity of S. stercoralis, G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis spp. were investigated in a school children population in the province of Benguela (Angola). A total of 351 stool samples were collected during January to June 2015. The presence of S. stercoralis and G. duodenalis was confirmed by qPCR methods. Giardia duodenalis assemblages and sub-assemblages were determined by multilocus sequence-based genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase and β-giardin genes of the parasite. Detection and identification of Cryptosporidium and Blastocystis species and subtypes was carried out by amplification and sequencing of a partial fragment of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene of both protozoan. Analyses of risk factors potentially associated with the transmission of these pathogens were also conducted. RESULTS Prevalences of S. stercoralis, G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Blastocystis spp. were estimated at 21.4% (95% CI: 17.1-25.7%), 37.9% (95% CI: 32.8-43.0%), 2.9% (95% CI: 1.1-4.5%) and 25.6% (95% CI: 21.18-30.2%), respectively. Overall, 64.1% (225/351) of the children were infected by at least one of the pathogens investigated. Sequence analyses of the 28 G. duodenalis isolates that were successfully genotyped allowed the identification of sub-assemblages AI (14.3%), AII (14.3%), BIII (7.1%) and BIV (25.0%). Discordant typing results AII/AIII and BIII/BIV were identified in 7.1% and 14.3% of the isolates, respectively. A total of five additional isolates (17.9%) were identified as assemblage B. Three Cryptosporidium species including C. hominis (70%), C. parvum (20%) and C. canis (10%) were found circulating in the children population under study. A total of 75 Blastocystis isolates were assigned to the subtypes ST1 (30.7%), ST2 (30.7%), ST3 (36.0%), ST5 (1.3%) and ST7 (1.3%), respectively. Children younger than seven years of age had significantly higher risk of infections by protozoan enteropathogens (PRR: 1.35, P < 0.01), whereas being underweight seemed to have a protective effect against these infections (PRR: 0.74, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS The burden of disease attributable to human strongyloidiasis, giardiosis, cryptosporidiosis and blastocystosis in Angola is considerably higher than initially estimated in previous surveys. Surveillance and control of these infections should be jointly tackled with formally considered neglected tropical diseases in order to maximize effort and available resources. Our data also demonstrate the added value of using molecular diagnostic methods in high transmission areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Dacal
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - José M. Saugar
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Aida de Lucio
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Marta Hernández-de-Mingo
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Elena Robinson
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - Pamela C. Köster
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | | | - Mateu Espasa
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fMicrobiology Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arlette Ninda
- Hospital Nossa Senhora da Paz, Cubal, Benguela, Angola
| | - Javier Gandasegui
- 0000 0001 2180 1817grid.11762.33Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca - Research Center for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Paseo de San Vicente 58-182, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Elena Sulleiro
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fMicrobiology Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Fernando Salvador
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fInfectious Diseases Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Israel Molina
- 0000 0001 0675 8654grid.411083.fInfectious Diseases Department, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esperanza Rodríguez
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
| | - David Carmena
- 0000 0000 9314 1427grid.413448.eParasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid Spain
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Mapping the residual incidence of taeniasis and cysticercosis in Colombia, 2009-2013, using geographical information systems: Implications for public health and travel medicine. Travel Med Infect Dis 2017; 22:51-57. [PMID: 29288739 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Colombia, taeniasis and cysticercosis have been significantly reduced over the past decades, however still reported with implications for public health and travel medicine. METHODS An observational, retrospective study, in which the incidence of taeniasis and cysticercosis (ICD-10 codes B68s/B69s) in Colombia, 2009-2013, was estimated based on data extracted from the Individual Health Records System (Registro Individual de Prestación de Servicios, RIPS) was performed. The Geographic Information System (GIS) generated national maps showing the distribution of taeniasis and cysticercosis by department by year. RESULTS During the period, 3626 cases were reported (median 796/year), for a cumulative crude national rate of 7.7 cases/100,000pop; 58.2% corresponded to male; 57% were <40 year-old (10.2% < 9.9 year-old). Cases were 57.6% neurocysticercosis, the rest were taeniasis due to T. solium, T. saginata, ocular cysticercosis and cysticerci in other organs. Bolivar, a touristic department, had the highest cumulated incidence rate (16.17 cases/100,000pop), as also evident across the map series developed in this study. CONCLUSION Despite the limitations of this study, data presented provide recent estimates of national taeniasis and cysticercosis incidence in the country useful in public health and for travel medicine practitioners, as some highly touristic areas presented higher disease incidence. Improved control, particularly of taeniasis, should be an attainable goal, which among other strategies would require improved sanitation and health education to prevent transmission, but also enhanced surveillance.
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