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Oduoye MO, Akanbi-Hakeem HB, Muzammil MA, Arama UO, Abbasi HQ, Farhan K, Fariha FNU, Modupeoluwa OO, Paul HW, Badarou ADE, Akilimali A. Meningitis in Niger Republic amidst COVID-19: current issues and novel recommendations. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:345-352. [PMID: 38222679 PMCID: PMC10783331 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001511] [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: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Amidst coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there has been a misplaced priority on meningitis in the Niger Republic, thus refocusing resources and attention away from the continuing meningitis campaign in the Niger Republic. The over-strained state of public health resources and staff has also led to decreased surveillance, postponed diagnoses, and constrained immunization efforts in Niger Republic. This review aims to bridge the gaps regarding meningitis amid COVID-19 in Niger Republic and offer recommendations to government to mitigate meningitis in the country, with the hope of finding a permanent solution to this debilitating disease. The authors reviewed 45 past and present pieces of literature on meningitis and COVID-19 from 2013 to 2023 in well-renowned scientific databases such as PubMed, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, African Journals Online, Medline, and Embase. Since 2015, Niger Republic has experienced multiple meningitis epidemics that have resulted in 20, 789 cases and 1, 369 deaths [a case fatality rate (CFR) of 6.6%]. A total of 231 cases of meningitis were reported from 1 November 2021 to 31 January 2022. And recently, 559 cases of meningitis (of which 111 are laboratory confirmed), including 18 deaths (overall CFR 3.2%), occurred in the Zinder region, southeast of Niger Republic, from 1 November 2022 to 27 January 2023. Meningitis remains a public health concern in the world, especially in Niger Republic, which could lead to serious long-term complications. Therefore, adequate and novel measures and therapeutic actions should be implemented by the Niger Government to lessen the burden of the disease in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malik Olatunde Oduoye
- Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State
- Department of Research, Medical Research Circle, Bukavu
| | | | | | | | | | - Kanza Farhan
- Medical College, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi
| | | | | | - Houessou W. Paul
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Andre Salifou Zinder University, Niger Republic
| | - Achiraf-deen E. Badarou
- Department of General Medicine, FSS-Cotonou, Association of Medical Students of Cotonou, Cotonou, Littoral, Benin
| | - Aymar Akilimali
- Department of Research, Medical Research Circle, Bukavu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Goma, Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo
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Hodza P, Gibbes C, Koti F. Africa's spatial data science landscape in the context of covid-19 pandemic. GEOJOURNAL 2023; 88:1-14. [PMID: 38625363 PMCID: PMC9994398 DOI: 10.1007/s10708-023-10852-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of Covid-19 pandemic in late 2019 presented daunting challenges for designing and implementing sustainable solutions at both local and global levels. The situation was dire in many developing economies with limited resources and vulnerable healthcare systems especially in Africa. Spatial data science (SDS) can be adopted and utilized to assist countries and local communities in understanding and effectively responding to Covid-19 pandemic. This article's study reviewed recent literature with the main goal to assess the application of this data-driven and technology-oriented modern approach in addressing Covid-19 in the African continent. Findings indicate that while examples of applications involving traditional geospatial technologies especially geographic information systems are abound, the use of more advanced SDS elements is limited and fragmented. Additionally, various studies leveraged SDS to address one or more complex questions against the backdrop of challenges largely influenced by the digital divide within Africa and across the globe. The article identifies and discusses these challenges as well as opportunities for increased use of SDS in Africa to understand and respond to disasters like Covid-19 and other complex problems. The argument is made for a more complete use of multiple elements of SDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paddington Hodza
- Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center, University of Wyoming, 1000 E University Ave, Laramie, WY 82071 USA
| | - Cerian Gibbes
- Department of Geography & Environmental Studies, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO 80916 USA
| | - Francis Koti
- Global Studies and Human Geography, Middle Tennessee State University, Box 133, Murfreesboro, TN 37132 USA
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Health system response to COVID-19 among primary health care units in Ethiopia: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281628. [PMID: 36763695 PMCID: PMC9916627 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There was limited data on the experiences and roles of sub-national health systems in the response against COVID-19 in Ethiopia. This study explored how sub-national primary health care units and coordinating bodies in Ethiopia responded to COVID-19 during the first 6 months of pandemic. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study with descriptive phenomenological design using 59 key informants that were purposively selected. The interviews included leaders across Ethiopia's 10 regions and 2 administrative cities. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide that was translated into a local language. The interviews were conducted in person or by phone. Coding and categorizing led to the development of themes and subthemes. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Local administrators across different levels took the lead in responding to COVID-19 by organizing multisectoral planning and monitoring committees at regional, zonal and woreda (district) levels. Health leaders reacted to the demand for an expanded workforce by reassigning health professionals to COVID-19 surveillance and case management activities, adding COVID-19-related responsibilities to their workloads, temporarily blocking leave, and hiring new staff on contractual basis. Training was prioritized for: rapid response teams, laboratory technicians, healthcare providers assigned to treatment centers where care was provided for patients with COVID-19, and health extension workers. COVID-19 supplies and equipment, particularly personal protective equipment, were difficult to obtain at the beginning of the pandemic. Health officials used a variety of means to equip and protect staff, but the quantity fell short of their needs. Local health structures used broadcast media, print materials, and house-to-house education to raise community awareness about COVID-19. Rapid response teams took the lead in case investigation, contact tracing, and sample collection. The care for mild cases was shifted to home-based isolation as the number of infections increased and space became limited. However, essential health services were neglected at the beginning of the pandemic while the intensity of local multisectoral response (sectoral engagement) declined as the pandemic progressed. CONCLUSIONS Local government authorities and health systems across Ethiopia waged an early response to the pandemic, drawing on multisectoral support and directing human, material, and financial resources toward the effort. But, the intensity of the multisectoral response waned and essential services began suffering as the pandemic progressed. There is a need to learn from the pandemic and invest in the basics of the health system-health workers, supplies, equipment, and infrastructure-as well as coordination of interventions.
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Mitchell SL, Mitchell TA, Horwitz-Willis N, Alptunaer TN, Gipson JA, Shackelford SA. Multi-disciplinary Leadership to Mitigate COVID-19 in an Austere West African Military Environment. Mil Med 2022; 188:usac045. [PMID: 35262696 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usac045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic created challenges for forward-deployed military units to Western Africa. Austere military environments afford multiple avenues to transmit COVID-19 amongst service members. MATERIALS AND METHODS A COVID-19 outbreak on a military base in Western Africa spanning over 100 days is statistically analyzed using a Pearson's correlation coefficient. Furthermore, a COVID-19 reproductive number (R0) is evaluated to examine the relationship between specific command-directed policies to mitigate COVID-19 transmission. RESULTS The multidisciplinary partnership of military command, medical, and public health leadership implemented evidence-based and epidemiologically informed COVID-19 preventive base-wide policies, including appropriate isolation/quarantine policies. The R0 for the outbreak was 0.03 and remained <1 for the outbreak duration. This base remained COVID-19 free for multiple weeks after policy implementation. CONCLUSIONS The implementation of practical mitigating base-wide policies through seamless communication between military command/medical/public health leadership resolved the COVID-19 outbreak while maintaining mission readiness. Weekly COVID-19 testing epidemiological data may be utilized by commanders to direct further decision-making on tightening/loosening base-wide policy restrictions for continued mission-essential operations, e.g., security, food service, or airfield operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Mitchell
- SLM and TAM contributed equally to this paper
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA
| | - Thomas A Mitchell
- SLM and TAM contributed equally to this paper
- US Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234, USA
| | - Nathaniel Horwitz-Willis
- 102d Intelligence Wing Medical Group, Massachusetts Air National Guard, Joint Base Cape Cod, Otis ANGB, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Public Health, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- 724th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron, US Air Force, Ramstein-Miesenbach 66877, Germany
| | - Timur N Alptunaer
- 946th Forward Resuscitative Surgical Team, US Army, Mobile, AL 36605, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Gipson
- 724th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron, US Air Force, Ramstein-Miesenbach 66877, Germany
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Dalal J, Triulzi I, James A, Nguimbis B, Dri GG, Venkatasubramanian A, Noubi Tchoupopnou Royd L, Botero Mesa S, Somerville C, Turchetti G, Stoll B, Abbate JL, Mboussou F, Impouma B, Keiser O, Coelho FC. COVID-19 mortality in women and men in sub-Saharan Africa: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2021-007225. [PMID: 34815243 PMCID: PMC8611236 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Since sex-based biological and gender factors influence COVID-19 mortality, we wanted to investigate the difference in mortality rates between women and men in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). METHOD We included 69 580 cases of COVID-19, stratified by sex (men: n=43 071; women: n=26 509) and age (0-39 years: n=41 682; 40-59 years: n=20 757; 60+ years: n=7141), from 20 member nations of the WHO African region until 1 September 2020. We computed the SSA-specific and country-specific case fatality rates (CFRs) and sex-specific CFR differences across various age groups, using a Bayesian approach. RESULTS A total of 1656 deaths (2.4% of total cases reported) were reported, with men accounting for 70.5% of total deaths. In SSA, women had a lower CFR than men (mean [Formula: see text] = -0.9%; 95% credible intervals (CIs) -1.1% to -0.6%). The mean CFR estimates increased with age, with the sex-specific CFR differences being significant among those aged 40 years or more (40-59 age group: mean [Formula: see text] = -0.7%; 95% CI -1.1% to -0.2%; 60+ years age group: mean [Formula: see text] = -3.9%; 95% CI -5.3% to -2.4%). At the country level, 7 of the 20 SSA countries reported significantly lower CFRs among women than men overall. Moreover, corresponding to the age-specific datasets, significantly lower CFRs in women than men were observed in the 60+ years age group in seven countries and 40-59 years age group in one country. CONCLUSIONS Sex and age are important predictors of COVID-19 mortality globally. Countries should prioritise the collection and use of sex-disaggregated data so as to design public health interventions and ensure that policies promote a gender-sensitive public health response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Dalal
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Isotta Triulzi
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,Institute of Management, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ananthu James
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Benedict Nguimbis
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Gabriela Guizzo Dri
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Akarsh Venkatasubramanian
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,Gender, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Deparment, International Labour Organization, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Lucie Noubi Tchoupopnou Royd
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,Health Systems Strengthening and Development Group Center, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Sara Botero Mesa
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Claire Somerville
- The Gender Center, Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Beat Stoll
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jessica Lee Abbate
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,UMI TransVIHMI, Montpellier, Languedoc-Roussillon, France.,Geomatys, Montpellier, France
| | - Franck Mboussou
- World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Benido Impouma
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Olivia Keiser
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland .,Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Flávio Codeço Coelho
- Association Actions en Santé, The GRAPH Network, Geneve, Switzerland.,School of Applied Mathematics, Getulio Vargas Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Talic S, Shah S, Wild H, Gasevic D, Maharaj A, Ademi Z, Li X, Xu W, Mesa-Eguiagaray I, Rostron J, Theodoratou E, Zhang X, Motee A, Liew D, Ilic D. Effectiveness of public health measures in reducing the incidence of covid-19, SARS-CoV-2 transmission, and covid-19 mortality: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ 2021; 375:e068302. [PMID: 34789505 PMCID: PMC9423125 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2021-068302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the evidence on the effectiveness of public health measures in reducing the incidence of covid-19, SARS-CoV-2 transmission, and covid-19 mortality. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Biosis, Joanna Briggs, Global Health, and World Health Organization COVID-19 database (preprints). ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR STUDY SELECTION Observational and interventional studies that assessed the effectiveness of public health measures in reducing the incidence of covid-19, SARS-CoV-2 transmission, and covid-19 mortality. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The main outcome measure was incidence of covid-19. Secondary outcomes included SARS-CoV-2 transmission and covid-19 mortality. DATA SYNTHESIS DerSimonian Laird random effects meta-analysis was performed to investigate the effect of mask wearing, handwashing, and physical distancing measures on incidence of covid-19. Pooled effect estimates with corresponding 95% confidence intervals were computed, and heterogeneity among studies was assessed using Cochran's Q test and the I2 metrics, with two tailed P values. RESULTS 72 studies met the inclusion criteria, of which 35 evaluated individual public health measures and 37 assessed multiple public health measures as a "package of interventions." Eight of 35 studies were included in the meta-analysis, which indicated a reduction in incidence of covid-19 associated with handwashing (relative risk 0.47, 95% confidence interval 0.19 to 1.12, I2=12%), mask wearing (0.47, 0.29 to 0.75, I2=84%), and physical distancing (0.75, 0.59 to 0.95, I2=87%). Owing to heterogeneity of the studies, meta-analysis was not possible for the outcomes of quarantine and isolation, universal lockdowns, and closures of borders, schools, and workplaces. The effects of these interventions were synthesised descriptively. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that several personal protective and social measures, including handwashing, mask wearing, and physical distancing are associated with reductions in the incidence covid-19. Public health efforts to implement public health measures should consider community health and sociocultural needs, and future research is needed to better understand the effectiveness of public health measures in the context of covid-19 vaccination. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42020178692.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Talic
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004 VIC, Australia
- Monash Outcomes Research and health Economics (MORE) Unit, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Shivangi Shah
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004 VIC, Australia
| | - Holly Wild
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004 VIC, Australia
- Torrens University, VIC, Australia
| | - Danijela Gasevic
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004 VIC, Australia
- Centre for Global Health, The Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ashika Maharaj
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004 VIC, Australia
| | - Zanfina Ademi
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004 VIC, Australia
- Monash Outcomes Research and health Economics (MORE) Unit, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Xue Li
- Centre for Global Health, The Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- School of Public Health and The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Centre for Global Health, The Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ines Mesa-Eguiagaray
- Centre for Global Health, The Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jasmin Rostron
- Centre for Global Health, The Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Evropi Theodoratou
- Centre for Global Health, The Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Xiaomeng Zhang
- Centre for Global Health, The Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ashmika Motee
- Centre for Global Health, The Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Danny Liew
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004 VIC, Australia
- Monash Outcomes Research and health Economics (MORE) Unit, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - Dragan Ilic
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004 VIC, Australia
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Wang Z, Whittington J, Yuan HY, Miao H, Tian H, Stenseth NC. Evaluating the effectiveness of control measures in multiple regions during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. BIOSAFETY AND HEALTH 2021; 3:264-275. [PMID: 34541485 PMCID: PMC8436421 DOI: 10.1016/j.bsheal.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of COVID-19 confirmed cases rapidly grew since the SARS-CoV-2 virus was identified in late 2019. Due to the high transmissibility of this virus, more countries are experiencing the repeated waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with limited manufacturing and distribution of vaccines, control measures might still be the most critical measures to contain outbreaks worldwide. Therefore, evaluating the effectiveness of various control measures is necessary to inform policymakers and improve future preparedness. In addition, there is an ongoing need to enhance our understanding of the epidemiological parameters and the transmission patterns for a better response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This review focuses on how various models were applied to guide the COVID-19 response by estimating key epidemiologic parameters and evaluating the effectiveness of control measures. We also discuss the insights obtained from the prediction of COVID-19 trajectories under different control measures scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengmiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing Science, Center for Global Change and Public Health, College of Global Change and Earth System Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100091, China,Corresponding authors: State Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing Science, Center for Global Change and Public Health, College of Global Change and Earth System Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100091, China (Zengmiao Wang); Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0315, Norway (Nils Chr. Stenseth)
| | - Jason Whittington
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0315, Norway
| | - Hsiang-Yu Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Hui Miao
- Department of Statistics, College of Art and Science, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Huaiyu Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing Science, Center for Global Change and Public Health, College of Global Change and Earth System Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Nils Chr. Stenseth
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0315, Norway,Corresponding authors: State Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing Science, Center for Global Change and Public Health, College of Global Change and Earth System Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100091, China (Zengmiao Wang); Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0315, Norway (Nils Chr. Stenseth)
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Siddiquea BN, Shetty A, Bhattacharya O, Afroz A, Billah B. Global epidemiology of COVID-19 knowledge, attitude and practice: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e051447. [PMID: 34521674 PMCID: PMC8441223 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of the global general population regarding COVID-19. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO were used to identify articles published between 1 January and 30 June 2021 assessing KAP regarding COVID-19 in the global general population. The quality of eligible studies was assessed. Random effects model was used to obtain the pooled proportion of each component of KAP of COVID-19. Heterogeneity (I2) was tested, and subgroup and correlation analyses were performed. RESULTS Out of 3099 records, 84 studies from 45 countries across all continents assessing 215 731 participants' COVID-19 KAP were included in this study. The estimated overall correct answers for knowledge, good attitude and good practice in this review were 75% (95% CI 72% to 77%), 74% (95% CI 71% to 77%) and 70% (95% CI 66% to 74%), respectively. Low-income countries, men, people aged below 30 years and people with 12 years of education or less had the lowest practice scores. Practice scores were below 60% in Africa and Europe/Oceania. Overall heterogeneity was high (I2 ≥98%), and publication bias was present (Egger's regression test, p<0.01). A positive significant correlation between knowledge and practice (r=0.314, p=0.006), and attitude and practice (r=0.348, p=0.004) was observed. CONCLUSIONS This study's findings call for community-based awareness programmes to provide a simple, clear and understandable message to reinforce knowledge especially regarding efficacy of the preventive measures in low and lower middle-income countries, and in Africa and Europe/Oceania, which will translate into good practice. Targeted intervention for men, people with low education, unemployed people and people aged below 30 years should be recommended. As most of the included studies were online surveys, underprivileged and remote rural people may have been missed out. Additional studies are needed to cover heterogeneous populations. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020203476.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodrun Naher Siddiquea
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aishwarya Shetty
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Oashe Bhattacharya
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Afsana Afroz
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Baki Billah
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Marrying Young: Limiting the Impact of a Crisis on the High Prevalence of Child Marriages in Niger. LAWS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/laws10030061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Child marriage is a harmful and discriminatory global practice, robbing millions of girls of their childhood. Global attention and momentum to end early marriage has increased over the years; however, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected this progress. It has been predicted that over the next decade up to 10–13 million more girls will be at risk of child marriage because of the pandemic. Since Niger has consistently had the highest rate of child marriage in the world, this study will explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on child marriages within the west and African region but specifically within Niger. This article will look at past response efforts to other pandemics, specifically Ebola, and show how the girl-child remains disproportionately disadvantaged, especially during pandemics. The article will conclude with recommendations on the importance of incorporating a gender analysis into preparedness and response efforts to eliminate child marriages.
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Nzeribe E, Michael UE, Musa SS, Marc MB, David S, Bassey EE, Essar MY, Adebisi YA, Lucero-Prisno DE. COVID-19 and its impacts: The situation in Niger republic. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2021; 11:100797. [PMID: 34095612 PMCID: PMC8163563 DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2021.100797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 being a public health emergency of international concern has emerged in most African countries including Niger. Niger, a landlocked country, is tasked with controlling the pandemic. However, of the big challenges the country faced is the fragility of healthcare system which posed limitations to the fight against the virus. The virus overwhelmed the fragile healthcare system which led to inaccessibility of quality healthcare to the citizens coupled with issues of flooding and economic recession that happened during the pandemic. The healthcare sectored has further been crippled by exposure and infection of the already insufficient healthcare workers. In addition to this, there was the burden of NTDs and other communicable and non-communicable diseases that subverted the country in the depths of difficulties. As per the predictions of World Bank, the poverty curve is likely to escalate due to the outrageous impacts of COVID-19. Adding on to this, the occurrence of natural disasters such as flooding has further stretched the country. It's no coincidence that the country would confront plethora of challenges amidst the second wave. Therefore, timely decision and necessary interventions are needed to strengthen the country's fight against the pandemic. However, this is only feasible when Nigerien government, international allies and other wealthy nations work closely to ensure that the challenges faced by the healthcare system are tackled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuella Nzeribe
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | | | - Success David
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | | | - Mohammad Yasir Essar
- Faculty of Dentistry, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, Afghanistan.,Medical Research Center, Kateb University, Kabul, Afghanistan
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Diendéré EA, Sondo KA, Ouédraogo AR, Dahourou DL, Cissé K, Sawadogo A, Maiga S, Kuiré M, Zida S, Kaboré PR, Minoungou CJW, Habou U, Badalo H, Zoungrana N, Ouédraogo AG, Belem AR, Zoungrana J, Poda A, Diallo I, Kaboré F, Sanou A, Kouanda S. Predictors of severe hypoxemia among COVID-19 patients in Burkina Faso (West Africa): Findings from hospital based cross-sectional study. Int J Infect Dis 2021; 108:289-295. [PMID: 33894354 PMCID: PMC8059284 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.04.007] [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: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction COVID-19 is one of the world’s major health crises. The objective of this study was to determine the predictive factors of severe hypoxemia in patients hospitalized in COVID-19 health facilities in Burkina Faso. Patients and method This study was a hospital-based cross-sectional study. The data collected relate to the period of the first wave of the epidemic (March 9 to June 30, 2020). All patients hospitalized for COVID-19 in the requisitioned health facilities of Ouagadougou were included in this study. Predictors of severe hypoxemia were identified using a multivariate logistic regression model. Results During the study period, 442 patients were included, representing 45.7% of the total number of positive patients in the entire country. The most common co-morbidities were diabetes (55; 12.4%) and arterial hypertension (97; 21.9%). Severe hypoxemia (SpO2 < 90%) was observed in 64 patients (14.5%). Age over 65 years (OR = 8.24; 95% CI: 2.83–24.01) and diabetes (OR = 2.43; 95% CI: 1.17–5.06) were the predictors for occurrence of severe hypoxemia in multivariate analysis. Conclusion The predictive factors of COVID-19 are similar in African and Caucasian populations. The surveillance of COVID-19 in risk groups should be strengthened to reduce their morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Arnaud Diendéré
- Internal Medicine Department, Bogodogo Teaching Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | | | | | - Désiré Lucien Dahourou
- Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Research Institute of Health Sciences, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Kadari Cissé
- Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Research Institute of Health Sciences, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Abdoulaye Sawadogo
- Infectious Diseases Department, Ouahigouya Teaching Hospital, Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso.
| | - Soumaila Maiga
- Pneumology Department, Ouahigouya Teaching Hospital, Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso.
| | - Marcel Kuiré
- Internal Medicine Department, Pissy District Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Seidou Zida
- Internal Medicine Department, Pissy District Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Pierre R Kaboré
- Internal Medicine Department, Pissy District Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | | | - Ulrich Habou
- Internal Medicine Department, Bogodogo Teaching Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Habil Badalo
- Internal Medicine Department, Bogodogo Teaching Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Noelie Zoungrana
- Directorate of Medical and Technical Services, Tengandogo Teaching Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Arsène G Ouédraogo
- Infectious Diseases Department, Yalgado Ouédraogo Teaching Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Arielle Rita Belem
- Infectious Diseases Department, Souro Sanon Teaching Hospital, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
| | - Jacques Zoungrana
- Infectious Diseases Department, Souro Sanon Teaching Hospital, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
| | - Armel Poda
- Infectious Diseases Department, Souro Sanon Teaching Hospital, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
| | - Ismael Diallo
- Infectious Diseases Department, Yalgado Ouédraogo Teaching Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Flavien Kaboré
- Anaesthesia and Resuscitation Department, Tengandogo Teaching Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Adama Sanou
- Directorate of Medical and Technical Services, Tengandogo Teaching Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Séni Kouanda
- Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Research Institute of Health Sciences, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
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