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Navaratnam AMD, O'Callaghan C, Beale S, Nguyen V, Aryee A, Braithwaite I, Byrne TE, Fong WLE, Fragaszy E, Geismar C, Hoskins S, Kovar J, Patel P, Shrotri M, Weber S, Yavlinsky A, Aldridge RW, Hayward AC. Eyeglasses and risk of COVID-19 transmission-analysis of the Virus Watch Community Cohort study. Int J Infect Dis 2024; 139:28-33. [PMID: 38008351 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2023.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The importance of SARS-CoV-2 transmission via the eyes is unknown, with previous studies mainly focusing on protective eyewear in healthcare settings. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that wearing eyeglasses is associated with a lower risk of COVID-19. METHODS Participants from the Virus Watch prospective community cohort study responded to a questionnaire on the use of eyeglasses and contact lenses. Infection was confirmed through data linkage, self-reported positive results, and, for a subgroup, monthly capillary antibody testing. Multivariable logistic regression models, controlling for age, sex, income, and occupation, were used to identify the odds of infection depending on frequency and purpose of eyeglasses or contact lenses use. RESULTS A total of 19,166 participants responded to the questionnaire, with 13,681 (71.3%, CI 70.7-72.0) reporting they wore eyeglasses. Multivariable logistic regression model showed a 15% lower odds of infection for those who reported using eyeglasses always for general use (odds ratio [OR] 0.85, 95% 0.77-0.95, P = 0.002) compared to those who never wore eyeglasses. The protective effect was reduced for those who said wearing eyeglasses interfered with mask-wearing and was absent for contact lens wearers. CONCLUSIONS People who wear eyeglasses have a moderate reduction in risk of COVID-19 infection, highlighting that eye protection may make a valuable contribution to the reduction of transmission in community and healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher O'Callaghan
- Infection, Immunity & Inflammation Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Beale
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK; Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Vincent Nguyen
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anna Aryee
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Thomas E Byrne
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Ellen Fragaszy
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Cyril Geismar
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Susan Hoskins
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jana Kovar
- Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Parth Patel
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Madhumita Shrotri
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sophie Weber
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alexei Yavlinsky
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Robert W Aldridge
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew C Hayward
- Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
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Alhammadi OA, Al Hammadi A, Ganesan S, AlKaabi N, Al Harbi MS, Kamour AM, Mansour M, Pereira R, Almarzouqi A, Cantarutti FM, Al Hosani F, Ibrahim H. Clinical characteristics of patients with mpox infection in the United Arab Emirates: a prospective cohort study. Int J Infect Dis 2023; 134:303-306. [PMID: 37455238 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2023.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aims to explore the risk factors, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of mpox infection in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted at two communicable disease centers in Abu Dhabi, UAE and patients admitted with confirmed mpox infections between May 01, 2022 and December 31, 2022 were included in our study. RESULTS A total of 176 mpox patients were admitted, of which 93% (n = 164) were men and mean age was 30.4 ± 7 years. Individuals presented with mucocutaneous lesions, most commonly on the genital and anal regions (n = 157; 89%). Only 70 (39.8%) gave a history of sexual exposure. The most common systemic symptoms reported were fever (n = 91; 52%), exanthema (n = 92; 52%), and inguinal lymphadenopathy (n = 60; 34%). Median timeframe from systemic symptoms to appearance of lesions was 4 days (interquartile range 4-6 days). Complications were observed in seven (4%) participants; two (1.1%) individuals developed conjunctivitis, four (2.3%) patients developed penile edema, and one (0.6%) case of myocarditis was reported. In 60% (n = 106) of patients, a potential source of sexual exposure was not identified. CONCLUSION The clinical characteristics of mpox cases in the UAE are similar to those in other countries. However, cultural and religious factors likely prevent patient disclosure of sexual exposure and symptoms, contributing to the limited information about the disease in the Middle East.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Abdelrahman Alhammadi
- Al Rahba Hospital, Abu Dhabi Health services (SEHA), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Emirates Society of Internal Medicine, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmed Al Hammadi
- Tawam Hospital, Abu Dhabi Health services (SEHA), Al Ain, United Arab Emirates; Emirates Infectious Disease Society, Emirates Medical Association, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Subhashini Ganesan
- G42 Healthcare, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; IROS (Insights Research Organization & Solutions), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nawal AlKaabi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Sheikh Khalifa Medical City SEHA, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Mariam Saleh Al Harbi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Corporate Medical and Clinical Affairs, Abu Dhabi Health services (SEHA), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Mohamad Mansour
- Tawam Hospital, Abu Dhabi Health services (SEHA), Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ray Pereira
- Al Rahba Hospital, Abu Dhabi Health services (SEHA), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdulla Almarzouqi
- Al Rahba Hospital, Abu Dhabi Health services (SEHA), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Flavia Martinez Cantarutti
- G42 Healthcare, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; IROS (Insights Research Organization & Solutions), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Farida Al Hosani
- Abu Dhabi Public Health Center - ADPHC, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Halah Ibrahim
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
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Liu Z, Wang Z, Xu M, Ma J, Sun Y, Huang Y. The priority areas and possible pathways for health cooperation in BRICS countries. Glob Health Res Policy 2023; 8:36. [PMID: 37641146 PMCID: PMC10464194 DOI: 10.1186/s41256-023-00318-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
As one of the largest alliances of middle-income countries, the BRICS, known as an acronym for five countries including "Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa", represents half of the global population. The health cooperation among BRICS countries will benefit their populations and other middle- and low-income countries. This study aims to summarize the current status of health cooperation in BRICS countries and identify opportunities to strengthen BRICS participation in global health governance. A literature review was conducted to analyze the status, progress, and challenges of BRICS' health cooperation. Content analysis was used to review the 2011-2021 annual joint declarations of the BRICS Health Ministers Meetings. The priority health areas were identified through segmental frequency analysis. Our research suggested that communicable diseases, access to medicine, and universal health coverage appeared most frequently in the content of declarations, indicating the possible top health priorities among BRICS' health collaboration. These priority areas align with the primary health challenges of each country, including the threats of double burden of diseases, as well as the need for improving health systems and access to medicines. Respective external cooperation, inter-BRICS health cooperation, and unified external cooperation are the main forms of health cooperation among BRICS countries. However, challenges such as the lack of a unified image and precise position, lack of practical impact, and weak discourse power have impeded the impact of BRICS on health governance. This study suggests that the BRICS countries should recognize their positioning, improve their unified image, and establish cooperative entities; at the same time, they should increase their practical strength, promote non-governmental cooperation, and expand the cooperation space through the "BRICS Plus" mechanism with countries with similar interests to join.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuokun Liu
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zongbin Wang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ming Xu
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jiyan Ma
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yinuo Sun
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yangmu Huang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
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4
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Thomas F, Fedeli A, Steggall E, Gonzalez Gonzalez JM, Salmon J, Williams C, Craine N. SARS-CoV-2 incidence among teaching staff in primary and secondary schools-Wales, 2020-2021. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:922. [PMID: 37208632 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15680-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, face-to-face delivery of education in schools across Wales was disrupted with repeated school closures to limit risk of infection. Evidence describing the incidence of infection amongst school staff during times when schools were open is limited. A previous research study found infection rates were higher in English primary school settings when compared with secondary. An Italian study suggested teachers weren't at greater risk of infection in comparison to the general population. The aim of this study was to identify whether educational staff had higher incidence rates than their counterparts in the general population in Wales, and secondly whether incidence rates amongst staff differed between primary and secondary school settings and by teacher age. METHODS We performed a retrospective observational cohort study using the national case detection and contact tracing system implemented during the COVID pandemic. Age stratified person-day COVID-19 incidence rates amongst teaching staff linked to primary or secondary schools in Wales were calculated for the autumn and summer terms during 2020-2021. RESULTS The observed pooled COVID-19 incidence rates for staff across both terms was 23.30 per 100,000 person days (95% CI: 22.31-24.33). By comparison, the rate in the general population aged 19-65, was 21.68 per 100,000 person days (95%: CI 21.53-21.84). Incidence among teaching staff was highest in the two youngest age groups (< 25 years and 25-29 years). When compared to the age matched general population, incidence was higher in the autumn term amongst primary school teachers aged ≤ 39 years, and in the summer term higher only in the primary school teachers aged < 25 years. CONCLUSION The data were consistent with an elevated risk of COVID-19 amongst younger teaching staff in primary schools when compared to the general population, however differences in case ascertainment couldn't be excluded as a possible reason for this. Rate differences by age group in teaching staff mirrored those in the general population. The risk in older teachers (≥ 50 years) in both settings was the same or lower than in the general population. Amongst all age groups of teachers maintaining the key risk mitigations within periods of COVID transmission remain important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ffion Thomas
- Observatory and Cancer Analysis Team, Public Health Wales, 2 Capital Quarter, Tyndall St, CF10 4BQ, Cardiff, UK.
| | - André Fedeli
- Observatory and Cancer Analysis Team, Public Health Wales, 2 Capital Quarter, Tyndall St, CF10 4BQ, Cardiff, UK
| | - Emily Steggall
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University, CF14 4XN, Cardiff, UK
| | - Jose Maria Gonzalez Gonzalez
- Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, Public Health Wales, Capital Quarter, Tyndall St, CF10 4BQ, Cardiff, UK
| | - Jane Salmon
- Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, Public Health Wales, Capital Quarter, Tyndall St, CF10 4BQ, Cardiff, UK
| | - Christopher Williams
- Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, Public Health Wales, Capital Quarter, Tyndall St, CF10 4BQ, Cardiff, UK
| | - Noel Craine
- Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, Public Health Wales, Capital Quarter, Tyndall St, CF10 4BQ, Cardiff, UK
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5
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Rawson T, Doohan P, Hauck K, Murray KA, Ferguson N. Climate change and communicable diseases in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Epidemics 2023; 42:100667. [PMID: 36652872 DOI: 10.1016/j.epidem.2023.100667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A review of the extant literature reveals the extent to which the spread of communicable diseases will be significantly impacted by climate change. Specific research into how this will likely be observed in the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is, however, greatly lacking. This report summarises the unique public health challenges faced by the GCC countries in the coming century, and outlines the need for greater investment in public health research and disease surveillance to better forecast the imminent epidemiological landscape. Significant data gaps currently exist regarding vector occurrence, spatial climate measures, and communicable disease case counts in the GCC - presenting an immediate research priority for the region. We outline policy work necessary to strengthen public health interventions, and to facilitate evidence-driven mitigation strategies. Such research will require a transdisciplinary approach, utilising existing cross-border public health initiatives, to ensure that such investigations are well-targeted and effectively communicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Rawson
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Jameel Institute, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Patrick Doohan
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Jameel Institute, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Katharina Hauck
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Jameel Institute, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Kris A Murray
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, MRC Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Atlantic Boulevard, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Neil Ferguson
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Jameel Institute, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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6
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Ang PC, Perumal V, Ibrahim MNM, Adnan R, Mohd Azman DK, Gopinath SCB, Raja PB. Electrochemical biosensor detection on respiratory and flaviviruses. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2023; 107:1503-1513. [PMID: 36719432 PMCID: PMC9887245 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12400-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Viruses have spread throughout the world and cause acute illness or death among millions of people. There is a growing concern about methods to control and combat early-stage viral infections to prevent the significant public health problem. However, conventional detection methods like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) requires sample purification and are time-consuming for further clinical diagnosis. Hence, establishing a portable device for rapid detection with enhanced sensitivity and selectivity for the specific virus to prevent further spread becomes an urgent need. Many research groups are focusing on the potential of the electrochemical sensor to become a key for developing point-of-care (POC) technologies for clinical analysis because it can solve most of the limitations of conventional diagnostic methods. Herein, this review discusses the current development of electrochemical sensors for the detection of respiratory virus infections and flaviviruses over the past 10 years. Trends in future perspectives in rapid clinical detection sensors on viruses are also discussed. KEY POINTS: • Respiratory related viruses and Flavivirus are being concerned for past decades. • Important to differentiate the cross-reactivity between the virus in same family. • Electrochemical biosensor as a suitable device to detect viruses with high performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phaik Ching Ang
- School of Chemical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Veeradasan Perumal
- Centre of Innovative Nanostructures and Nanodevices (COINN), Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia
| | | | - Rohana Adnan
- School of Chemical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Daruliza Kernain Mohd Azman
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Gelugor, Malaysia
| | - Subash C B Gopinath
- Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), 01000, Kangar, Perlis, Malaysia
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering & Technology, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), 02600, Arau, Perlis, Malaysia
- Micro System Technology, Centre of Excellence (CoE), Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Pauh Campus, 02600, Arau, Perlis, Malaysia
| | - Pandian Bothi Raja
- School of Chemical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia.
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Rana V, William M, Kewalramani A, Daloya J, Barnes M, Chang T, Miele AS, Haggerty G, Ng J. COVID-19 Mask Mandates in NY and Their Effect on the Incidence of Flu. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect 2023; 13:1-5. [PMID: 36817302 DOI: 10.55729/2000-9666.1140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The goal of the study is to quantify the reduction in the cases of influenza and how this decrease in incidence correlates with the execution of masking requirements in public as well as social distancing. Methods Influenza statistics were collected from Northwell Health, a 23-hospital system located throughout New York State. Positive influenza results were collected representing the 2018-2019 Flu season, 2019-2020 Flu season, and compared to the 2020-2021 Flu season, which corresponded to the mask mandates and social distancing measures implemented in NYS. Results Our data showed a dramatic decrease in influenza rates during the 2020-2021 Flu season, which corresponded to NYS's strict social distancing and mask requirements during the pandemic. This shows a steep decline correlating with the implementation of public health mandates directed at decreasing the spread of aerosolized particles between members of the population. Conclusion Our data show a significant decrease in the number of positive influenza tests during the same period of time when COVID-19 social distancing and mask-wearing requirements were in effect.
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8
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Hall AJ, Clement ND, MacLullich AMJ, Simpson AHRW, Johansen A, White TO, Duckworth AD. The delivery of an emergency audit response to a communicable disease outbreak can inform future orthopaedic investigations and clinical practice : lessons from IMPACT Hip Fracture Global Audits. Bone Joint Res 2022; 11:346-348. [PMID: 35642472 PMCID: PMC9233410 DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.116.bjr-2022-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Hall
- Department of Orthopaedics, Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Clydebank, UK.,Edinburgh Orthopaedics, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Orthopaedic Research Trust into Trauma (SORT-IT), Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Hip Fracture Audit (SHFA), NHS National Services Scotland, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Orthopaedics & Trauma, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nick D Clement
- Edinburgh Orthopaedics, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Orthopaedic Research Trust into Trauma (SORT-IT), Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Hip Fracture Audit (SHFA), NHS National Services Scotland, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alasdair M J MacLullich
- Scottish Hip Fracture Audit (SHFA), NHS National Services Scotland, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Ageing & Health, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - A H R W Simpson
- Department of Orthopaedics & Trauma, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Antony Johansen
- University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,National Hip Fracture Database, Royal College of Physicians, London, UK
| | - Tim O White
- Edinburgh Orthopaedics, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Orthopaedic Research Trust into Trauma (SORT-IT), Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Orthopaedics & Trauma, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Andrew D Duckworth
- Edinburgh Orthopaedics, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Orthopaedic Research Trust into Trauma (SORT-IT), Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Orthopaedics & Trauma, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Hall AJ, Clement ND, MacLullich AMJ, Simpson AHRW, White TO, Duckworth AD. The IMPACT of COVID-19 on trauma & orthopaedic surgery provides lessons for future communicable disease outbreaks : minimum reporting standards, risk scores, fragility trauma services, and global collaboration. Bone Joint Res 2022; 11:342-345. [PMID: 35642467 PMCID: PMC9233405 DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.116.bjr-2022-0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Research into COVID-19 has been rapid in response to the dynamic global situation, which has resulted in heterogeneity of methodology and the communication of information. Adherence to reporting standards would improve the quality of evidence presented in future studies, and may ensure that findings could be interpreted in the context of the wider literature. The COVID-19 pandemic remains a dynamic situation, requiring continued assessment of the disease incidence and monitoring for the emergence of viral variants and their transmissibility, virulence, and susceptibility to vaccine-induced immunity. More work is needed to assess the long-term impact of COVID-19 infection on patients who sustain a hip fracture. The International Multicentre Project Auditing COVID-19 in Trauma & Orthopaedics (IMPACT) formed the largest multicentre collaborative audit conducted in orthopaedics in order to provide an emergency response to a global pandemic, but this was in the context of many vital established audit services being disrupted at an early stage, and it is crucial that these resources are protected during future health crises. Rapid data-sharing between regions should be developed, with wider adoption of the revised 2022 Fragility Fracture Network Minimum Common Data Set for Hip Fracture Audit, and a pragmatic approach to information governance processes in order to facilitate cooperation and meta-audit. This editorial aims to: 1) identify issues related to COVID-19 that require further research; 2) suggest reporting standards for studies of COVID-19 and other communicable diseases; 3) consider the requirement of new risk scores for hip fracture patients; and 4) present the lessons learned from IMPACT in order to inform future collaborative studies. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(6):342–345.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Hall
- Department of Orthopaedics, Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Clydebank, UK.,Edinburgh Orthopaedics, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Orthopaedic Research Trust into Trauma (SORT-IT), Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Hip Fracture Audit (SHFA), NHS National Services Scotland, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Orthopaedics & Trauma, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nick D Clement
- Edinburgh Orthopaedics, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Orthopaedic Research Trust into Trauma (SORT-IT), Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Hip Fracture Audit (SHFA), NHS National Services Scotland, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alasdair M J MacLullich
- Scottish Hip Fracture Audit (SHFA), NHS National Services Scotland, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Ageing and Health, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Tim O White
- Edinburgh Orthopaedics, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Orthopaedic Research Trust into Trauma (SORT-IT), Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Orthopaedics & Trauma, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Andrew D Duckworth
- Edinburgh Orthopaedics, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Orthopaedic Research Trust into Trauma (SORT-IT), Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Orthopaedics & Trauma and Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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10
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Kalinoski T, DeWitt C, Belani H. Harm reduction readiness for illicit IV drug use among safety-net primary care practices in the San Fernando Valley. Arch Public Health 2022; 80:110. [PMID: 35387678 PMCID: PMC8985360 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-022-00855-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Harm reduction is an accumulation of strategies aimed at preventing adverse health outcomes associated with illicit substance use. Several harm reduction programs and services exist within Los Angeles County (LAC), however their success relies in part on the application of harm reduction principles by local primary care providers serving patients with substance use disorders. This study aims to assess the readiness of patient-centered medical homes in the San Fernando Valley to provide effective harm reduction to patients who use injection drugs and identify barriers to doing so. METHODS An online survey was distributed to primary care providers and social workers via email at federally qualified health centers and LAC Department of Health Services clinics in the San Fernando Valley between May and June 2019. It consisted of 22 multiple-choice, Likert scale, and short answer questions. The survey assessed knowledge of injection drug use (IDU), familiarity and utilization of harm-reduction and resources, and self-evaluation of attitudes and skills. RESULTS There were a total of 41 survey respondents across all clinics. Of respondents, 98% correctly identified heroin as a drug typically injected, and 93% identified Hepatitis C as an infectious risk of IDU. 63% of respondents use harm reduction strategies every few months or less. 34% prescribe buprenorphine routinely, and 76% prescribe pre-exposure prophylaxis to those at risk for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). 76% are comfortable discussing IDU with their patients, but 59% indicate that they lack the necessary skills, and 42% agree that they lack the time to address it. CONCLUSION Knowledge of IDU was adequate among those surveyed, although overall utilization of harm reduction was infrequent. There is a perceived deficit in skills and time to effectively provide harm reduction to primary care patients in the San Fernando Valley.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Kalinoski
- Department of Internal Medicine, Olive View - UCLA Medical Center, 14445 Olive View Dr, Sylmar, CA, 91342, USA
| | - Cassandra DeWitt
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Hrishikesh Belani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Olive View - UCLA Medical Center, 14445 Olive View Dr, Sylmar, CA, 91342, USA.
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O'Brien N, Flott K, Bray O, Shaw A, Durkin M. Implementation of initiatives designed to improve healthcare worker health and wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic: comparative case studies from 13 healthcare provider organisations globally. Global Health 2022; 18:24. [PMID: 35193629 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-022-00818-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Healthcare workers are at a disproportionate risk of contracting COVID-19. The physical and mental repercussions of such risk have an impact on the wellbeing of healthcare workers around the world. Healthcare workers are the foundation of all well-functioning health systems capable of responding to the ongoing pandemic; initiatives to address and reduce such risk are critical. Since the onset of the pandemic healthcare organizations have embarked on the implementation of a range of initiatives designed to improve healthcare worker health and wellbeing. Methods Through a qualitative collective case study approach where participants responded to a longform survey, the facilitators, and barriers to implementing such initiatives were explored, offering global insights into the challenges faced at the organizational level. 13 healthcare organizations were surveyed across 13 countries. Of these 13 participants, 5 subsequently provided missing information through longform interviews or written clarifications. Results 13 case studies were received from healthcare provider organizations. Mental health initiatives were the most commonly described health and wellbeing initiatives among respondents. Physical health and health and safety focused initiatives, such as the adaption of workspaces, were also described. Strong institutional level direction, including engaged leadership, and the input, feedback, and engagement of frontline staff were the two main facilitators in implementing initiatives. The most common barrier was HCWs’ fear of contracting COVID-19 / fear of passing COVID-19 to family members. In organizations who discussed infection prevention and control initiatives, inadequate personal protective equipment and supply chain disruption were highlighted by respondents. Conclusions Common themes emerge globally in exploring the enablers and barriers to implementing initiatives to improve healthcare workers health and wellbeing through the COVID-19 pandemic. Consideration of the themes outlined in the paper by healthcare organizations could help influence the design and deployment of future initiatives ahead of implementation.
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Kuchler T, Russel D, Stroebel J. JUE Insight: The geographic spread of COVID-19 correlates with the structure of social networks as measured by Facebook. J Urban Econ 2022; 127:103314. [PMID: 35250112 PMCID: PMC8886493 DOI: 10.1016/j.jue.2020.103314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
We use aggregated data from Facebook to show that COVID-19 is more likely to spread between regions with stronger social network connections. Areas with more social ties to two early COVID-19 "hotspots" (Westchester County, NY, in the U.S. and Lodi province in Italy) generally had more confirmed COVID-19 cases by the end of March. These relationships hold after controlling for geographic distance to the hotspots as well as the population density and demographics of the regions. As the pandemic progressed in the U.S., a county's social proximity to recent COVID-19 cases and deaths predicts future outbreaks over and above physical proximity and demographics. In part due to its broad coverage, social connectedness data provides additional predictive power to measures based on smartphone location or online search data. These results suggest that data from online social networks can be useful to epidemiologists and others hoping to forecast the spread of communicable diseases such as COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Kuchler
- New York University, Stern School of Business, NBER, and CEPR
| | - Dominic Russel
- New York University, Stern School of Business, NBER, and CEPR
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Abstract
Yaws is a rare skin disease endemic to tropical countries caused by Treponema pertenue. It is highly infectious and spreads through physical contact. In Malaysia, it was presumably eradicated during the 1960s, with the last reported case published in 1985. Due to its rarity, the disease often goes unrecognised and misdiagnosed. Here, we report the case of a 5-year-old aboriginal boy diagnosed with secondary yaws who presented with fever and an incidental finding of chronic painless ulcerated nodules and plaques on his lower limbs and gluteal region. His diagnosis was confirmed serologically with a venereal disease research laboratory lab test and he was successfully treated with a single dose of intramuscular benzathine penicillin G. Primary care physicians should not ignore this disease since its early recognition and appropriate treatment is vital to its eradication, especially in high-risk communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadiah Md Alwi
- MD, Department of Family Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang, Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Rosediani Muhamad
- MMED, PhD, Department of Family Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang, Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Azlina Ishak
- MBBS, MMED, Department of Family Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang, Kerian, Malaysia
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Jindal HA, Sahoo SS, Jamir L, Kedar A, Sharma S, Bhatt B. Higher coronavirus disease-19 mortality linked to comorbidities: A comparison between low-middle income and high-income countries. J Educ Health Promot 2021; 10:377. [PMID: 34912913 PMCID: PMC8641710 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_142_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global burden of disease (GBD) provides the estimates of mortality and morbidity, while case fatality rate (CFR) helps in understanding the severity of the disease. People infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2) with underlying medical conditions have shown higher levels of unfavorable outcomes including mortality. We assessed the association of SARS-CoV-2 CFR with disability-adjusted life years (DALY) of various comorbidities in the low-middle income countries (LMIC) and high-income countries (HIC) to study the relationship of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) mortality with GBDs and to understand the linkage between COVID-19 mortality and comorbidities. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was an ecological study with secondary data analysis comparing the DALY of various morbidities from GBD with CFR of COVID-19. Gross domestic product was the basis of stratifying 177 countries into low-middle income (LMIC) and high-income groups (HIC). The mortality was analyzed using Pearson correlation and linear regression. RESULTS The median global CFR of SARS-CoV-2 was 2.15. The median CFR among LMIC (n = 60) and HIC (n = 117) was 2.01 (0.00-28.20) and 2.29 (0.00-17.26), respectively. The regression analysis found that, in both LMIC and HIC, maternal disorders were associated with higher SARS-CoV-2 CFR, while tuberculosis, mental health disorders, and were associated with lower CFR. Further, in LMIC, musculoskeletal disorders and nutritional deficiencies were associated with higher CFR, while respiratory disorders were associated with lower CFR. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 infection appears to be a systemic disease. Individuals with comorbidities, such as maternal disorders, neurological diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and nutritional deficiencies, have poorer outcomes with COVID-19, leading to higher mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Har Ashish Jindal
- Senior Consulatant, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India
| | - Soumya Swaroop Sahoo
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Limalemla Jamir
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Ashwini Kedar
- Senior Consulatant, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India
| | - Sugandhi Sharma
- Department of Community Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Bhumika Bhatt
- Department of Community Medicine, KD Medical College, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
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15
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Bloomer MJ, Walshe C. Smiles behind the masks: A systematic review and narrative synthesis exploring how family members of seriously ill or dying patients are supported during infectious disease outbreaks. Palliat Med 2021; 35:1452-1467. [PMID: 34405753 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211029515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection control measures during infectious disease outbreaks can have significant impacts on seriously ill and dying patients, their family, the patient-family connection, coping, grief and bereavement. AIM To explore how family members of patients who are seriously ill or who die during infectious disease outbreaks are supported and cared for during serious illness, before and after patient death and the factors that influence family presence around the time of death. DESIGN Systematic review and narrative synthesis. DATA SOURCES CINAHL, Medline, APA PsycInfo and Embase were searched from inception to June 2020. Forward and backward searching of included papers were also undertaken. Records were independently assessed against inclusion criteria. Included papers were assessed for quality, but none were excluded. FINDINGS Key findings from 14 papers include the importance of communication and information sharing, as well as new ways of using virtual communication. Restrictive visiting practices were understood, but the impact of these restrictions on family experience cannot be underestimated, causing distress and suffering. Consistent advice and information were critical, such as explaining personal protective equipment, which family found constraining and staff experienced as affecting interpersonal communication. Cultural expectations of family caregiving were challenged during infectious disease outbreaks. CONCLUSION Learning from previous infectious disease outbreaks about how family are supported can be translated to the current COVID-19 pandemic and future infectious disease outbreaks. Consistent, culturally sensitive and tailored plans should be clearly communicated to family members, including when any restrictions may be amended or additional supports provided when someone is dying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Bloomer
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.,Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Catherine Walshe
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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Kshirsagar MM, Dodamani AS, Dodamani GA, Khobragade VR, Deokar RN. Impact of Covid-19 on Mental Health: An Overview. Rev Recent Clin Trials 2021; 16:227-231. [PMID: 33402091 DOI: 10.2174/1574887115666210105122324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 (2019-nCoV) pandemic is a major threat to public health worldwide; it has been identified as originating in Wuhan, Hubei province, China. It has spread across the globe, causing an outbreak of acute infectious pneumonia. Such a global outbreak is associated with adverse effects on mental health. Fear, stress and anxiety seem more definitely an outcome of mass quarantine. METHODS Keeping this pandemic situation in mind, existing literature on the COVID-19 crisis relevant to mental health was redeemed via a literature search from the PubMed database. Collected published articles were summarized according to their overall themes. RESULTS Preliminary evidence suggests that symptoms of self-reported stress, anxiety and depression have a common psychological impact due to the pandemic, and may be associated with disrupted sleep. Regional, state and National-international borders have almost been shut down, economies crashed, and billions of people quarantined or isolated at their own homes and quarantine centers. In this situational frame of covid-19, patients, frontline health-care professionals anf geriatric population with existing psychiatric conditions may be encountering further suffering. CONCLUSION COVID-19 will continue to affect mental health, which plays an important role in battling the epidemic. With the scare of the COVID-19 pandemic on the rise, it is time that psychiatrists should try to integrate the health-care services keeping mental health at prime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minal M Kshirsagar
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Nair Hospital Dental College, Mumbai, India
| | - Arun S Dodamani
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, ACPM Dental College, Dhule, India
| | | | - Vrushali R Khobragade
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, VYWS Dental College and Hospital, Amaravati, India
| | - Rahul N Deokar
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, SMBT Dental College and Hospital, Igatpuri, India
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Robinson P, Wiley K, Degeling C. Public health practitioner perspectives on dealing with measles outbreaks if high anti-vaccination sentiment is present. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:578. [PMID: 33832447 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10604-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Communities with low vaccination rates are at greater risk during outbreaks of vaccine preventable diseases. Most Australian parents support vaccines, but some refuse and are often judged harshly by their community, especially during an outbreak. We sought the perspectives of Australian public health experts on the key issues faced when managing a measles outbreak in an area with high anti-vaccination sentiment. Methods A measles outbreak scenario formed the basis of a 3-round modified Delphi process to identify key practitioner concerns in relation to parents/carers who don’t follow the recommended vaccination schedule. We surveyed a range of professionals in the field: policymakers, infectious disease experts, immunisation program staff, and others involved in delivering childhood vaccinations, to identify key priorities when responding to an outbreak in a community with low vaccination coverage. Results Findings indicate that responses to measles outbreaks in communities with high anti-vaccination sentiment are motivated by concerns about the potential for a much larger outbreak event. The highest operational priority is to isolate infected children. The two most highly ranked practical issues are mistrust from non-vaccinating members of the local region and combatting misinformation about vaccines. Trying to change minds of such individuals is not a priority during an outbreak, nor is vaccinating their children. Using media and social media to provide information about the outbreak and measures the public can take to limit the spread of the disease was a focus. Conclusions Our findings provide a deeper understanding of the challenges faced during an outbreak and priorities for communicating with communities where there is a high level of anti-vaccination sentiment. In the context of a global pandemic, the results of this study also have implications for managing public health responses to community transmission of SARS-CoV-2, as COVID-19 vaccines becomes widely available. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10604-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Siopis
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Australia; Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Australia.
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19
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Huang R, Ju Z, Zhou PK. A gut dysbiotic microbiota-based hypothesis of human-to-human transmission of non- communicable diseases. Sci Total Environ 2020; 745:141030. [PMID: 32726703 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have replaced communicable diseases as the leading cause of premature death worldwide over the past century. Increasing numbers of studies have reported a link between NCDs and dysbiotic gut microbiota. Some gut microbiota, such as Helicobacter pylori, have been implicated in person-to-person transmission. Based on these reports, we develop a hypothesis regarding dysbiotic microbiota-associated NCDs, and explore how the presence of communicable NCDs could be confirmedexperimentally. We have also reviewed reports on environmental factors, including a high-fat diet, alcohol, smoking, exercise, radiation and air pollution, which have been associated with dysbiotic microbiota, and determined whether any of these parameters were also associated with NCDs. This review discusses the potential mechanism by which dysbiotic microbiota induced by environmental factors are directly or indirectly involved in person-to-person transmission. The hypothetical interplay between the environment, gut microbiota and host can be tested through high-throughput sequencing, animal models, and cell studies, although each of these modalities presents specific challenges. Confirmation of a causative association of dysbiotic microbiota with NCDs would represent a paradigm shift in efforts to prevent and control these diseases, and should stimulate additional studies on the associations among environmental factors, gut microbiota, and NCDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixue Huang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China.
| | - Zhao Ju
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Ping-Kun Zhou
- Department of Radiation Biology, Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, AMMS, Beijing 100850, PR China; Institute for Chemical Carcinogenesis, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, PR China.
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Gaiha SM, Cheng J, Halpern-Felsher B. Association Between Youth Smoking, Electronic Cigarette Use, and COVID-19. J Adolesc Health 2020; 67:519-523. [PMID: 32798097 PMCID: PMC7417895 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to assess whether youth cigarette and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use are associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms, testing, and diagnosis. METHODS An online national survey of adolescents and young adults (n = 4,351) aged 13-24 years was conducted in May 2020. Multivariable logistic regression assessed relationships among COVID-19-related symptoms, testing, and diagnosis and cigarettes only, e-cigarettes only and dual use, sociodemographic factors, obesity, and complying with shelter-in-place. RESULTS COVID-19 diagnosis was five times more likely among ever-users of e-cigarettes only (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.82-13.96), seven times more likely among ever-dual-users (95% CI: 1.98-24.55), and 6.8 times more likely among past 30-day dual-users (95% CI: 2.40-19.55). Testing was nine times more likely among past 30-day dual-users (95% CI: 5.43-15.47) and 2.6 times more likely among past 30-day e-cigarette only users (95% CI: 1.33-4.87). Symptoms were 4.7 times more likely among past 30-day dual-users (95% CI: 3.07-7.16). CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 is associated with youth use of e-cigarettes only and dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes, suggesting the need for screening and education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Mathur Gaiha
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Jing Cheng
- Division of Oral Epidemiology and Dental Public Health, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Bonnie Halpern-Felsher
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California.
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Tabourin T, Sarfati J, Pinar U, Beaud N, Parra J, Vaessen C, Gomez F, Benamran D, Canlorbe G, Belghiti J, Chartier-Kastler E, Cussenot O, Seisen T, Roupret M. Postoperative assessment of nosocomial transmission of COVID-19 after robotic surgical procedures during the pandemic. Urol Oncol 2020; 39:298.e7-298.e11. [PMID: 33032921 PMCID: PMC7505595 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess potential nosocomial coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) transmission in patients who underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic procedures during the pandemic. MATERIAL AND METHODS Prospective study in patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopy in urology or gynaecology within 2 academic hospitals. Patients underwent local preoperative COVID-19 screening using a symptoms questionnaire. Patients with suspicious screening underwent coronavirus real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and were excluded from robotic surgery if positive. Patients with symptoms postsurgery were systematically tested for coronavirus by RT-PCR. One-month postsurgery, all patients had a telephone consultation to evaluate COVID-19 symptoms. RESULTS Sixty-eight patients underwent robotic surgery during the study period (median age: 63-years [IQR: 53-70], 1.8 male: female ratio). Oncology was the main indication for robotic surgery (n = 62, 91.2%) and 26 patients (38.2%) received a chest CT-scan prior to surgery. Eleven patients (16.2%) were symptomatic after surgery of whom only 1 tested positive for coronavirus by RT-PCR (1.5%) and was transferred to COVID-19 unit with no life-threatening condition. No attending surgeon was diagnosed with COVID-19 during the study. CONCLUSIONS Robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery seemed safe in the era of COVID-19 as long as all recommended precautions are followed. The rate of nosocomial COVID-19 transmission was extremely low despite the fact that we only used RT-PCR testing in symptomatic patients during the preoperative work-up. Larger cohort is needed to validate these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Tabourin
- Sorbonne University, GRC n 5, Predictive Onco-Urology, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Urology, Paris, France
| | - Judith Sarfati
- Sorbonne Université, GRC n 5, Predictive Onco-Urology, APHP, Hôpital Tenon, Urology, Paris, France
| | - Ugo Pinar
- Sorbonne University, GRC n 5, Predictive Onco-Urology, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Urology, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Beaud
- Sorbonne University, GRC n 5, Predictive Onco-Urology, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Urology, Paris, France
| | - Jerôme Parra
- Sorbonne University, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Department of Urology, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Vaessen
- Sorbonne University, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Department of Urology, Paris, France
| | - Florie Gomez
- Sorbonne Université, GRC n 5, Predictive Onco-Urology, APHP, Hôpital Tenon, Urology, Paris, France
| | - Daniel Benamran
- Division of Urology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Geoffroy Canlorbe
- Sorbonne University, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Department of Surgical Gynaecology, Paris, France
| | - Jérémie Belghiti
- Division of Urology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Olivier Cussenot
- Sorbonne Université, GRC n 5, Predictive Onco-Urology, APHP, Hôpital Tenon, Urology, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Seisen
- Sorbonne University, GRC n 5, Predictive Onco-Urology, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Urology, Paris, France
| | - Morgan Roupret
- Sorbonne University, GRC n 5, Predictive Onco-Urology, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Urology, Paris, France.
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Jamrozik E, Selgelid MJ. Human infection challenge studies in endemic settings and/or low-income and middle-income countries: key points of ethical consensus and controversy. J Med Ethics 2020; 46:601-609. [PMID: 32381683 PMCID: PMC7476299 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2019-106001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Human infection challenge studies (HCS) involve intentionally infecting research participants with pathogens (or other micro-organisms). There have been recent calls for more HCS to be conducted in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), where many relevant diseases are endemic. HCS in general, and HCS in LMICs in particular, raise numerous ethical issues. This paper summarises the findings of a project that explored ethical and regulatory issues related to LMIC HCS via (i) a review of relevant literature and (ii) 45 qualitative interviews with scientists and ethicists. Among other areas of consensus, we found that there was widespread agreement that LMIC HCS can be ethically acceptable, provided that they have a sound scientific rationale, are accepted by local communities and meet usual research ethics requirements. Unresolved issues include those related to (i) acceptable approaches to trade-offs between the scientific aim to produce generalisable results and the protection of participants, (iii) the sharing of benefits with LMIC populations, (iii) the acceptable limits to risks and burdens for participants, (iv) the potential for third-party risk and whether the degree of acceptable third-party risk is different in endemic settings, (v) the conditions under which (if any) it would be appropriate to recruit children for disease-causing HCS, (v) appropriate levels of payment to participants and (vi) appropriate governance of (LMIC) HCS. This paper provides preliminary analyses of these ethical considerations in order to (i) inform scientists and policymakers involved in the planning, conduct and/or governance of LMIC HCS and (ii) highlight areas warranting future research. Insofar as this article focuses on HCS in (endemic) settings where diseases are present and/or widespread, much of the analysis provided is relevant to HCS (in HICs or LMICs) involving pandemic diseases including COVID19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Euzebiusz Jamrozik
- Monash Bioethics Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of General Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael J Selgelid
- Monash Bioethics Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Erfurt-Berge C, Schmidt A, Angelovska I, Mahler V. [Occupationally acquired MRSA colonization and occupational dermatological assessments (BK-No. 3101 in the German list of Occupational Diseases) : Analysis of the DGUV documentation and expert opinion on a case with work-related MRSA-triggered atopic dermatitis]. Hautarzt 2020; 71:613-623. [PMID: 32494841 PMCID: PMC7268186 DOI: 10.1007/s00105-020-04616-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Person-to-person transmitted infectious diseases can cause occupational diseases (OD). These are subsumed as BK-No. 3101 in the German list of OD which applies for individuals with a considerably higher risk for infection as a consequence of their professional activity compared to the general population. OBJECTIVES The special medical and insurance law aspects of a work-related MRSA colonization are presented using the example of an expert opinion case and an evaluation of the BK reports of suspected occupational disease (BK No. 3101) of the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV). PATIENTS AND METHODS The BK documentation of the DGUV from 2007-2012 and the patient cohort from the Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Erlangen, presenting for expert assessment from 2007-2012 were retrospectively analysed for human-to-human transmitted infectious diseases of the skin (BK-No. 3101). RESULTS Person-to-person transmission of infectious diseases of the skin is rare in the field of occupational dermatology. In the DGUV cohort, suspected BK-No. 3101cases amounted to 2.6% of all notified cases; recognized BK-No. 3101 cases accounted for 4.2% of all recognized cases, amongst which 9 were caused by MRSA. In contrast to a symptomatic infection, an asymptomatic MRSA colonization is not being recognized as BK-No. 3101. Bacterial superantigens can trigger atopic dermatitis (AD). In particular cases, occupationally acquired MRSA can elicit AD and may justify classification as an OD (BK-No. 3101). CONCLUSIONS Early detection of MRSA colonization and eradication are necessary for rehabilitation. Management of skin diseases due to infectious diseases within the framework of OD is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne Schmidt
- Büro für Berufsdermatologie, Begutachtung und Betriebsberatung, Nürnberg, Deutschland
| | - Irena Angelovska
- Hautklinik Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Deutschland
- Hautarztpraxis Wolfratshausen, Wolfratshausen, Deutschland
| | - Vera Mahler
- Hautklinik Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Deutschland.
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Str. 51-59, 63225, Langen, Deutschland.
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Liu Z, Lei S, Zou L, Li G, Ye B. Grafting homogenous electrochemical biosensing strategy based on reverse proximity ligation and Exo III assisted target circulation for multiplexed communicable disease DNA assay. Biosens Bioelectron 2020; 167:112487. [PMID: 32810705 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2020.112487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Rapid and effective diagnosis of communicable disease is one of the critical issues of the modern society, especially for detecting different targets at the same time. In this work, a grafting homogenous electrochemical biosensing strategy is proposed by integrating of reverse proximity ligation and exonuclease III (Exo III) assisted target circulation to analyze hepatitis B (HBV) and human immunodeficiency (HIV). Specially, a two-wing nanodevice (TWD) with two detection paths is elaborately designed based on analogous proximity ligation assay. The reverse proximity ligation process provides a new way of signal conversion and amplification, what accomplished by demolishing the TWD in the presence of targets. Meanwhile, a vast number of signal probes are released via Exo III assisted target circulation. Then the signal probes are grafted on the universal sensing interface, which is decorated with graftable tetrahedron DNA (GTD). These lead to a highly amplified electrochemical signal. Compared with the conventional strategies, the grafting homogenous electrochemical biosensing strategy not only achieves convenient sensitive detection of multiple communicable diseases DNA simultaneously, but also performs well in the detection of sole target. This strategy effectively decreases the background, homogenizes the distribution of probes, and avoids the complex and time-consuming modification process of the working electrode, which holds great potential application in early diagnosis for communicable disease in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Liu
- College of Chemistry, Green Catalysis Center, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, PR China
| | - Sheng Lei
- College of Chemistry, Green Catalysis Center, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, PR China
| | - Lina Zou
- College of Chemistry, Green Catalysis Center, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, PR China
| | - Gaiping Li
- College of Chemistry, Green Catalysis Center, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, PR China
| | - Baoxian Ye
- College of Chemistry, Green Catalysis Center, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, PR China.
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Moon SG, Kim YK, Son WS, Kim JH, Choi J, Na BJ, Park B, Choi BY. Time-variant reproductive number of COVID-19 in Seoul, Korea. Epidemiol Health 2020; 42:e2020047. [PMID: 32660220 PMCID: PMC7644928 DOI: 10.4178/epih.e2020047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate time-variant reproductive number (Rt) of coronavirus disease 19 based on either number of daily confirmed cases or their onset date to monitor effectiveness of quarantine policies. METHODS Using number of daily confirmed cases from January 23, 2020 to March 22, 2020 and their symptom onset date from the official website of the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the district office, we calculated Rt using program R’s package “EpiEstim”. For asymptomatic cases, their symptom onset date was considered as -2, -1, 0, +1, and +2 days of confirmed date. RESULTS Based on the information of 313 confirmed cases, the epidemic curve was shaped like ‘propagated epidemic curve’. The daily Rt based on Rt_c peaked to 2.6 on February 20, 2020, then showed decreased trend and became <1.0 from March 3, 2020. Comparing both Rt from Rt_c and from the number of daily onset cases, we found that the pattern of changes was similar, although the variation of Rt was greater when using Rt_c. When we changed assumed onset date for asymptotic cases (-2 days to +2 days of the confirmed date), the results were comparable. CONCLUSIONS Rt can be estimated based on Rt_c which is available from daily report of the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Estimation of Rt would be useful to continuously monitor the effectiveness of the quarantine policy at the city and province levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Geun Moon
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeon-Kyung Kim
- Seoul Center for Infectious Disease Control and Prevention, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woo-Sik Son
- Division of Medical Mathematics, National Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Jong-Hoon Kim
- Epidemiology, Public Health, Implementation & Clinical Development Unit, International Vaccine Institute, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jungsoon Choi
- Department of Mathematics, Hanyang University College of Natural Sciences, Seoul, Korea
| | - Baeg-Ju Na
- Bureau of Civil Health, Seoul Metropolitan Government, Seoul, Korea
| | - Boyoung Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bo Youl Choi
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Moghanibashi-Mansourieh A. Assessing the anxiety level of Iranian general population during COVID-19 outbreak. Asian J Psychiatr 2020; 51:102076. [PMID: 32334409 PMCID: PMC7165107 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2020.102076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 359] [Impact Index Per Article: 89.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
This study is aimed to assess the anxiety level of Iranian general population during COVID-19 outbreak. The online questionnaire surveyed 10,754 individuals from the general population of 31 provinces of Iran who completed the questionnaire on social networks from March 1 to March 9, 2020. The inferential statistics suggests that the level of anxiety was higher among women (95 % CI [0.1, 81.36], p < 0.001), people who more followed corona-related news (p < 0.001) and the age group of 21-40 years (p < 0.001). Ultimately, the level of anxiety was significantly higher among people who had at least one family member, relative, or friend who contracted COVID-19 disease (95 % CI [1.2, 35.03], p < 0.001). The health care system should adopt a package of psychosocial interventions to reduce the anxiety of high risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Moghanibashi-Mansourieh
- Member of the Board of Directors of Iran Association of Social Workers, Tehran, Iran; Department of Social Work, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Fan PEM, Aloweni F, Lim SH, Ang SY, Perera K, Quek AH, Quek HKS, Ayre TC. Needs and concerns of patients in isolation care units - learnings from COVID-19: A reflection. World J Clin Cases 2020; 8:1763-1766. [PMID: 32518768 PMCID: PMC7262715 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i10.1763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
With strict measures in place to contain the spread of coronavirus disease 2019, many have been isolated as suspected or confirmed cases. Being isolated causes much inconvenience for the patients and family. Patients' and next-of-kins’ needs and concerns during isolation will be shared together with suggestions for key process improvements. Our hospital’s Senior Patient Experience Managers contact all patients admitted to the isolation wards on a daily basis to provide some form of support. Common issues raised were gathered and strategies to help with their needs and concerns were discussed. Being in isolation is a challenging period for both patients and family. Nonetheless, we can implement measures to mitigate against the adverse effects of isolation. Patient education, effective and efficient means of communication, close monitoring for signs of distress and anxiety, and early intervention could help patients cope better with the whole isolation experience. Nursing management may want to consider implementing the measures shared in the article to manage patient’s stress while not compromising on staff safety.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fazila Aloweni
- Nursing Division, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Shu Hui Lim
- Nursing Division, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Shin Yuh Ang
- Nursing Division, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Karen Perera
- Office of Patient Experience, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Aik Huan Quek
- Office of Patient Experience, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Hwee Koon Susan Quek
- Office of Patient Experience, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Tracy Carol Ayre
- Nursing Division, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
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Alyaquobi F, AlMaqbali AA, Al-Jardani A, Ndunda N, Al Rawahi B, Alabri B, AlSadi AM, AlBaloshi JA, Al-Baloshi FS, Al-Essai NA, Al-Azri SA, Al-Zadjali SM, Al-Balushi LM, Petersen E, Al-Abri S. Screening migrants from tuberculosis high-endemic countries for latent tuberculosis in Oman: A cross sectional cohort analysis. Travel Med Infect Dis 2020; 37:101734. [PMID: 32437967 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2020.101734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
To fulfil the World Health Organization (WHO) End TB strategy, screening for tuberculosis (TB) in immigrants is an important component of the strategy to reduce the TB burden in low-incidence countries. Oman has an annual TB incidence rate of 5.7 per 100000 and transmission from migrants with activated latent TB infection (LTBI) to nationals is a concern. The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of migrants to the Sultanate of Oman with LTBI. The study used an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) to assess previous exposure to TB, defining LTBI and a positive IGRA with a normal chest X-ray. 1049 subjects were surveyed. Six participants were excluded from the analysis as they had been recently vaccinated and 1 had an indeterminate result, thus 1042 subjects were included. The overall IGRA-positive rate was 22.4% (234/1042), 30.9% and 21.2% of African and Asian migrants, respectively, were IGRA-positive. Fifty-eight of the participants had a strong IGRA reactivity defined as more than 4 IU/ml. The study shows the proportion of migrants from Asia and Africa with LTBI and 24.7% (58/234) of IGRA-positive migrants had an IGRA of >4 IU/ml, defining a subpopulation with a high risk of developing active TB in the first two years of arrival to the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Alyaquobi
- Department of Communicable Diseases Control, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Oman
| | - Ali A AlMaqbali
- Department of Disease Surveillance and Control, Directorate General of Health Services in North Batinah, Sohar, Oman
| | - Amina Al-Jardani
- Central Public Health Laboratory, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Oman
| | - Nduku Ndunda
- QIAGEN Middle East and Africa FZ LLC, DHCC Al Baker Bldg. 26 Office 310 & 311, P.O. Box 505028, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Bader Al Rawahi
- Department of Communicable Diseases Control, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Oman
| | - Badr Alabri
- Department of Surveillance, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Oman
| | - Ahmed Mohammed AlSadi
- Department of Disease Surveillance and Control, Directorate General of Health Services in North Batinah, Sohar, Oman
| | - Jamal A AlBaloshi
- Department of Disease Surveillance and Control, Directorate General of Health Services in North Batinah, Sohar, Oman
| | - Fatma S Al-Baloshi
- Department of Disease Surveillance and Control, Directorate General of Health Services in North Batinah, Sohar, Oman
| | - Naima A Al-Essai
- Department of Disease Surveillance and Control, Directorate General of Health Services in North Batinah, Sohar, Oman
| | - Saleh A Al-Azri
- Central Public Health Laboratory, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Oman
| | - Samiya M Al-Zadjali
- Central Public Health Laboratory, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Oman
| | - Laila M Al-Balushi
- Central Public Health Laboratory, Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Oman
| | - Eskild Petersen
- Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Oman
| | - Seif Al-Abri
- Directorate General for Disease Surveillance and Control, Ministry of Health, Oman.
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Wang K, Xiang L, Kang L, Miao L, Li Q, Li X, Zhu J, Wang Y, Huang Y, He C. Communicable disease mortality trends and characteristics of infants in rural China, 1996-2015. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:455. [PMID: 32252710 PMCID: PMC7137429 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08486-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More attention should be paid to communicable disease-specific infant mortality rate (CD-IMR) in rural China. However, few studies have examined specific geographic patterns and trends in CD-IMR in these areas. Our aims were to assess the epidemiological distribution and trends in CD-IMR in rural China for the period 1996-2015. METHODS We used data from China's Under-5 Child Mortality Surveillance System (U5CMSS). The time trends in communicable disease-specific IMR (CD-IMR) were assessed by Poisson regression model, and the proportion of total infant deaths due to communicable disease was assessed by the Cochran Armitage trend test. Differences in CD-IMR among and within geographic regions were assessed for significance using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test. RESULTS The overall CD-IMR fell by 86.0% from 1444.3 to 201.5 per 100,000 live births in rural mainland China from 1996 to 2015. The proportion of total infant deaths related to communicable disease fell from 33.4 to 19.7%. Using eastern rural areas as the reference, rate ratios (RRs) of IMR due to all communicable diseases ranged between 1.7 and 3.1 in central rural areas and between 4.4 and 9.8 in western areas during the four study intervals. Acute respiratory infection (ARI) accounted for 71% of deaths, followed by diarrhea and septicemia. CONCLUSIONS IMR due to communicable disease remains a major public health issue. ARI is the leading cause of mortality, followed by diarrhea. A regional gap remains in the risk of infant exposure to communicable disease in rural China. More attention should be paid to western rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wang
- National Office for Maternal and Child Health Surveillance of China, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Section 3 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Liangcheng Xiang
- National Office for Maternal and Child Health Surveillance of China, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Section 3 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Leni Kang
- National Office for Maternal and Child Health Surveillance of China, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Section 3 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Lei Miao
- National Office for Maternal and Child Health Surveillance of China, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Section 3 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qi Li
- National Office for Maternal and Child Health Surveillance of China, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Section 3 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaohong Li
- National Office for Maternal and Child Health Surveillance of China, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Section 3 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jun Zhu
- National Office for Maternal and Child Health Surveillance of China, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Section 3 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanping Wang
- National Office for Maternal and Child Health Surveillance of China, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Section 3 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China. .,Department of Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Chunhua He
- National Office for Maternal and Child Health Surveillance of China, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Section 3 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China. .,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China.
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30
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Abstract
Nipah instead was one of the most fatal outbreaks of diseases in the mankind which was initially assumed as Japanese encephalitis. A multidisciplinary exploration was done at several levels of microbiology, histopathology and genetics which led to the discovery of a new paramyxovirus named Nipah virus (NiV). The disease was primarily identified in Malaysia in 1998 and named after a village, Sungai Nipah. The main mode of transmission in the Malaysian outbreaks was thought to be the consumption of bat’s dropping, urine and fruit partially eaten by pigs. In Bangladesh and northeast India, the virus was directly transmitted from bats to human through consumption of raw date palm juice. To limit the epidemic, coordinated efforts by health care providers have become mandatory. This article gives a note about the NiV, its infection and on-going researches on its management strategies. Data were collected using electronic media consisting of articles, books and websites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi D Raval
- Department of Periodontics & Implantology, Manubhai Patel Dental College, Munjmahuda, Vadodara 390011, India
| | - Mansi Mehta
- Dr. Bristol Dental, Bristol, Connecticut, USA
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31
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Mikos M, Juszczyk G, Czerw A, Strzępek Ł, Banaś T, Cipora E, Deptała A, Badowska-Kozakiewicz A. Refusal to Take Sick Leave after Being Diagnosed with a Communicable Disease as an Estimate of the Phenomenon of Presenteeism in Poland. Med Princ Pract 2020; 29:134-141. [PMID: 31476756 PMCID: PMC7098319 DOI: 10.1159/000503052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of presenteeism in patients with communicable diseases in Poland. SUBJECT AND METHODS This study was based on data from the medical records of 2,529 patients aged 19-64 years. All of the patients were diagnosed with communicable diseases. The inclusion criteria were based on implementing decision concerning communicable diseases made by the Commission of the European Union. Associations between refusal to take sick leave and patients' age, gender, and diagnosis in terms of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) were tested. Linear regression analysis of the data acquired from the patients who agreed to take sick leave was further used to estimate the possible length of sick leave in patients who refused to take it. RESULTS The number of patients who refused to take sick leave was 18.1%. The presenteeism rate was related to the age of patients (periods of sick leave were longer in older patients) and the ICD-10 diagnosis (largely in bacterial intestinal infections and measles). The estimated number of days spent on sick leave in patients who refused to take it, assuming that they made a different decision and complied with it, was in the range of 4-6 days. CONCLUSION The prevalence of presenteeism in the case of communicable diseases in Poland is lower than in the general population. However, as the refusals to take sick leave took place in the case of potentially contagious diseases, the negative impact on productivity may be significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Mikos
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Krakow, Poland
| | | | | | | | - Tomasz Banaś
- Collegium Medicum, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Cipora
- Medical Institute, Jan Grodek State Vocational Academy in Sanok, Sanok, Poland
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Arji G, Ahmadi H, Nilashi M, A Rashid T, Hassan Ahmed O, Aljojo N, Zainol A. Fuzzy logic approach for infectious disease diagnosis: A methodical evaluation, literature and classification. Biocybern Biomed Eng 2019; 39:937-955. [PMID: 32287711 PMCID: PMC7115764 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbe.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents a systematic review of the literature and the classification of fuzzy logic application in an infectious disease. Although the emergence of infectious diseases and their subsequent spread have a significant impact on global health and economics, a comprehensive literature evaluation of this topic has yet to be carried out. Thus, the current study encompasses the first systematic, identifiable and comprehensive academic literature evaluation and classification of the fuzzy logic methods in infectious diseases. 40 papers on this topic, which have been published from 2005 to 2019 and related to the human infectious diseases were evaluated and analyzed. The findings of this evaluation clearly show that the fuzzy logic methods are vastly used for diagnosis of diseases such as dengue fever, hepatitis and tuberculosis. The key fuzzy logic methods used for the infectious disease are the fuzzy inference system; the rule-based fuzzy logic, Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and fuzzy cognitive map. Furthermore, the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve were universally applied for a performance evaluation of the fuzzy logic techniques. This thesis will also address the various needs between the different industries, practitioners and researchers to encourage more research regarding the more overlooked areas, and it will conclude with several suggestions for the future infectious disease researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goli Arji
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Health Information Technology Department, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Hossein Ahmadi
- Halal Research Center of IRI, FDA, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Information Technology, University of Human Development, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Mehrbakhsh Nilashi
- Department for Management of Science and Technology Development, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Faculty of Information Technology, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tarik A Rashid
- Computer Science and Engineering Department, University of Kurdistan Hewler, Erbil, Kurdistan, Iraq
| | - Omed Hassan Ahmed
- School of Computing and Engineering, University of Huddersfield, Queensgate, Huddersfield, United Kingdom
- University of Human Development, College of Science and Technology, Department of Information Technology, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Nahla Aljojo
- College of Computer Science and Engineering, Department of Information Systems and Technology, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azida Zainol
- Department of Software Engineering, College of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Zhao Y, Lafta R, Hagopian A, Flaxman AD. The epidemiology of 32 selected communicable diseases in Iraq, 2004-2016. Int J Infect Dis 2019; 89:102-109. [PMID: 31560993 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2019.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2003 invasion of Iraq significantly undermined population health. However, there is a lack of understanding of how it undermined communicable disease control. This study was performed to assess the incidence trends of 32 communicable diseases in post-conflict Iraq. METHODS Reported incidence data for 32 communicable diseases (2004-2016) were collected from routine reports sent to the Iraqi Ministry of Health by primary health centers, and general and tertiary hospitals. Incidence (per 100 000) was defined as the number of reported incident cases divided by the population size. Joinpoint regression was used to examine the incidence trends and average annual percentage change (AAPC) for each disease, and the overall incidence rate across the period. RESULTS Communicable diseases increased significantly during the peak years of the war, especially during the US troop surge period (2007-2009). As US troops withdrew (after 2011), overall communicable diseases decreased. The incidence rate of nearly half of the 32 diseases decreased significantly, while the incidence rate of five increased significantly (hepatitis A, varicella, viral meningitis, cutaneous leishmaniasis, extrapulmonary tuberculosis). CONCLUSIONS The early foundational strength of Iraq's health system may help explain why infectious disease failed to overwhelm the population following the invasion. Iraq's federal government could exercise its legal authority to manage threats to public health security by expanding the disease surveillance system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxi Zhao
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Riyadh Lafta
- Department of Community Medicine, Al Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Amy Hagopian
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Abraham D Flaxman
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Health Metrics Science, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Craig AT, Joshua CA, Sio AR, Donoghoe M, Betz-Stablein B, Bainivalu N, Dalipanda T, Kaldor J, Rosewell AE, Schierhout G. Epidemic surveillance in a low resource setting: lessons from an evaluation of the Solomon Islands syndromic surveillance system, 2017. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:1395. [PMID: 30572942 PMCID: PMC6302379 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-6295-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Solomon Islands is one of the least developed countries in the world. Recognising that timely detection of outbreaks is needed to enable early and effective response to disease outbreaks, the Solomon Islands government introduced a simple syndromic surveillance system in 2011. We conducted the first evaluation of the system and the first exploration of a national experience within the broader multi-country Pacific Syndromic Surveillance System to determine if it is meeting its objectives and to identify opportunities for improvement. Methods We used a multi-method approach involving retrospective data collection and statistical analysis, modelling, qualitative research and observational methods. Results We found that the system was well accepted, highly relied upon and designed to account for contextual limitations. We found the syndromic algorithm used to identify outbreaks was moderately sensitive, detecting 11.8% (IQR: 6.3–25.0%), 21.3% (IQR: 10.3–36.8%), 27.5% (IQR: 12.8–52.3%) and 40.5% (IQR: 13.5–65.7%) of outbreaks that caused small, moderate, large and very large increases in case presentations to health facilities, respectively. The false alert rate was 10.8% (IQR: 4.8–24.5%). Rural coverage of the system was poor. Limited workforce, surveillance resourcing and other ‘upstream’ health system factors constrained performance. Conclusions The system has made a significant contribution to public health security in Solomon Islands, but remains insufficiently sensitive to detect small-moderate sized outbreaks and hence should not be relied upon as a stand-alone surveillance strategy. Rather, the system should sit within a complementary suite of early warning surveillance activities including event-based, in-patient- and laboratory-based surveillance methods. Future investments need to find a balance between actions to address the technical and systems issues that constrain performance while maintaining simplicity and hence sustainability. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-018-6295-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam T Craig
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| | - Cynthia A Joshua
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Chinatown, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Alison R Sio
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Chinatown, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Mark Donoghoe
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | | | - Nemia Bainivalu
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Chinatown, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Tenneth Dalipanda
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Chinatown, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - John Kaldor
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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Kudo D, Sasaki J, Ikeda H, Shiino Y, Shime N, Mochizuki T, Morita M, Soeda H, Ohge H, Lee JJ, Fujita M, Miyairi I, Kato Y, Watanabe M, Yokota H. A survey on infection control in emergency departments in Japan. Acute Med Surg 2018; 5:374-379. [PMID: 30338085 PMCID: PMC6167398 DOI: 10.1002/ams2.360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim Infection control in the emergency department is important for hospital risk management; however, few clinical guidelines have been established. This study aimed to determine whether hospitals in Japan have infection control manuals, and investigate the contents of manuals, consulting systems, and isolation facilities for emergency departments. Methods A total of 517 hospitals certified as educational institutions for board‐certified acute care physicians in Japan were requested between March and May 2015 to provide a written evaluation of the infection control in the emergency department. Results A total of 51 of 303 (16.8%) hospitals had no manuals regarding infection control in the emergency department. Among 250 hospitals having emergency department manuals, 115 (46.0%) did not include contents regarding disinfection and sterilization for imaging examination rooms, and only 44 (17.6%) had criteria for contacting the emergency medical service when patients are suspected of, or diagnosed with, communicable diseases. Of the 303 hospitals, 277 (91.4%) prepared specific manuals for the 2009 pandemic influenza. Of the 303 hospitals, 80 (26.4%) did not prepare manuals for the Ebola virus disease outbreak in West Africa in 2014. Furthermore, 92 (30.4%) of the 303 hospitals did not have any negative‐pressure isolation rooms. Conclusions Practices and guidelines necessary for infection control in the emergency department were not sufficiently covered in the hospitals studied. Education, information sharing, and a checklist for preparing manuals are needed to establish better infection control systems in emergency departments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Kudo
- Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine Sendai Japan
| | - Junichi Sasaki
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine Keio University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Hiroto Ikeda
- Department of Emergency Medicine Teikyo University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Yasukazu Shiino
- Department of Acute Medicine Kawasaki Medical School Kurashiki Japan
| | - Nobuaki Shime
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine Graduate School of Biochemical and Health Sciences Hiroshima University Hospital Hiroshima Japan
| | - Toru Mochizuki
- Infection Control Team Nippon Medical School Musashi Kosugi Hospital Kawasaki Japan
| | - Masanori Morita
- Critical Care Medical Center Sakai City Medical Center Sakai Japan
| | - Hiroshi Soeda
- Department of Pharmacy Tokyo Medical University Hospital Tokyo Japan
| | - Hiroki Ohge
- Department of Infectious Diseases Hiroshima University Hospital Hiroshima Japan
| | - Jong Ja Lee
- Japanese Society for Infection Prevention and Control Tokyo Japan
| | - Masahisa Fujita
- Infection Control Team Nippon Medical School Hospital Tokyo Japan
| | - Isao Miyairi
- Division of Infectious Diseases National Center for Child Health and Development Tokyo Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Kato
- Disease Control and Prevention Center National Center for Global Health and Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Manabu Watanabe
- Department of Surgery Toho University Ohashi Medical Center Tokyo Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yokota
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine Nippon Medical School Hospital Tokyo Japan
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Cheng Y, Liu XF, Meng L, Yang XT, Liu DP, Wei KF, Jiang XJ, Liu HX, Zheng YH. [Study on early warning threshold values for 7 common communicable diseases in Gansu province, 2016]. Zhonghua Liu Xing Bing Xue Za Zhi 2018; 39:352-356. [PMID: 29609253 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0254-6450.2018.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To optimize the warning threshold values of common communicable diseases in Gansu province, and improve the early warning effect. Method: An early warning model was set up for influenza, scarlet fever, other infectious diarrheal diseases, dysentery, typhoid and paratyphoid, viral hepatitis type E and hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD) respectively in Gansu by using the moving percentile method and cumulative sum method. By calculating the sensitivity, specificity, predictive value of positive test, predictive value of negative test, Youden' index and receiver-operating characteristic curve, the optimum early warning threshold values for communicable diseases in Gansu were selected. Results: The optimum early warning boundary values of influenza, scarlet fever, other infectious diarrheal diseases, dysentery, typhoid and paratyphoid, and viral hepatitis type E were P(90), P(80), P(95), P(90), P(80) and P(90) respectively. The optimum early warning parameters of HFMD were k=1.2, H=5σ. Under the optimum early warning boundary values/parameters, the early warning sensitivities of influenza, scarlet fever, other infectious diarrheal diseases, dysentery, typhoid and paratyphoid, viral hepatitis type E and HFMD were 86.67%, 100.00%, 91.67%, 100.00%, 100.00%, 100.00% and 100.00%, the specificities were 86.49%, 62.22%, 75.00%, 100.00%, 97.92%, 89.13% and 74.47%. The predictive values of positive test were 72.22%, 29.17%, 52.38%, 100.00%, 80.00%, 54.55% and 29.41%, and the predictive values of negative test were 94.12%, 100.00%, 96.77%, 100.00%, 100.00%, 100.00% and 100.00%, and the Youden' indexes were 0.73, 0.62, 0.67, 1.00, 0.98,0.89 and 0.74. Receiver-operating characteristic curve showed that the values/parameters of this warning boundary were the points closest to the upper left of the coordinate diagram. Conclusion: The early warning thresholds of influenza, other infectious diarrheal diseases, dysentery and hepatitis E in Gansu may be raised appropriately and the early warning parameters of HFMD need to be adjusted to improve the effectiveness of early warning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Cheng
- Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou 730000, China
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Nakamura S, Wada K, Yanagisawa N, Smith DR. Health risks and precautions for visitors to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 22:3-7. [PMID: 29360525 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020, Japan will host the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020 (Tokyo 2020) which will involve a large population influx from various countries to Tokyo, the most populated city in Japan. We summarize the potential health risks for visitors to Tokyo 2020, related to communicable disease risks and other health threats, based on recent national and local surveillance reports. METHODS We reviewed up-to-date surveillance reports published by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Tokyo Metropolitan Infectious Disease Surveillance Center. RESULTS Communicable disease risks for vaccine-preventable illnesses such as measles and rubella, as well as food and waterborne diseases represent the most likely risks. The risk of acquiring vector-borne diseases is considered low in Japan. On the other hand, however, heat-related illness represents a potential risk, as Tokyo 2020 is scheduled during the hottest season in Japan, with temperatures generally expected to exceed 30 °C. CONCLUSION Maintaining an up-to-date routine vaccination schedule is highly recommended for visitors attending the Tokyo 2020 and appropriate hygiene measures for food and waterborne diseases as well as health promotion for heat-related illness. It may also be useful to increase the number of multilingual triage clinicians whom can be placed within emergency departments during the Tokyo 2020 to provide first contact services and coordination of emergency care among non-Japanese speaking visitors to Tokyo.
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Misganaw A, Haregu TN, Deribe K, Tessema GA, Deribew A, Melaku YA, Amare AT, Abera SF, Gedefaw M, Dessalegn M, Lakew Y, Bekele T, Mohammed M, Yirsaw BD, Damtew SA, Krohn KJ, Achoki T, Blore J, Assefa Y, Naghavi M. National mortality burden due to communicable, non-communicable, and other diseases in Ethiopia, 1990-2015: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015. Popul Health Metr 2017; 15:29. [PMID: 28736507 PMCID: PMC5521057 DOI: 10.1186/s12963-017-0145-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ethiopia lacks a complete vital registration system that would assist in measuring disease burden and risk factors. We used the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2015 (GBD 2015) estimates to describe the mortality burden from communicable, non-communicable, and other diseases in Ethiopia over the last 25 years. METHODS GBD 2015 mainly used cause of death ensemble modeling to measure causes of death by age, sex, and year for 195 countries. We report numbers of deaths and rates of years of life lost (YLL) for communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional (CMNN) disorders, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and injuries with 95% uncertainty intervals (UI) for Ethiopia from 1990 to 2015. RESULTS CMNN causes of death have declined by 65% in the last two-and-a-half decades. Injury-related causes of death have also decreased by 70%. Deaths due to NCDs declined by 37% during the same period. Ethiopia showed a faster decline in the burden of four out of the five leading causes of age-standardized premature mortality rates when compared to the overall sub-Saharan African region and the Eastern sub-Saharan African region: lower respiratory infections, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and diarrheal diseases; however, the same could not be said for ischemic heart disease and other NCDs. Non-communicable diseases, together, were the leading causes of age-standardized mortality rates, whereas CMNN diseases were leading causes of premature mortality in 2015. Although lower respiratory infections, tuberculosis, and diarrheal disease were the leading causes of age-standardized death rates, they showed major declines from 1990 to 2015. Neonatal encephalopathy, iron-deficiency anemia, protein-energy malnutrition, and preterm birth complications also showed more than a 50% reduction in burden. HIV/AIDS-related deaths have also decreased by 70% since 2005. Ischemic heart disease, hemorrhagic stroke, and ischemic stroke were among the top causes of premature mortality and age-standardized death rates in Ethiopia in 2015. CONCLUSIONS Ethiopia has been successful in reducing deaths related to communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional deficiency diseases and injuries by 65%, despite unacceptably high maternal and neonatal mortality rates. However, the country's performance regarding non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory disease, was minimal, causing these diseases to join the leading causes of premature mortality and death rates in 2015. While the country is progressing toward universal health coverage, prevention and control strategies in Ethiopia should consider the double burden of common infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases: lower respiratory infections, diarrhea, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. Prevention and control strategies should also pay special attention to the leading causes of premature mortality and death rates caused by non-communicable diseases: cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. Measuring further progress requires a data revolution in generating, managing, analyzing, and using data for decision-making and the creation of a full vital registration system in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awoke Misganaw
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | - Kebede Deribe
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Gizachew Assefa Tessema
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Department of Reproductive Health, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Amare Deribew
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- St. Paul Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Yohannes Adama Melaku
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Azmeraw T Amare
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Federal Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Semaw Ferede Abera
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
- Institute for Biological Chemistry and Nutrition, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | | | - Yihunie Lakew
- Ethiopian Public Health Association, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tolesa Bekele
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Madda Walabu University, Bale Robe, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Solomon Abrha Damtew
- College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolayta Sodo University, Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Kristopher J Krohn
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Tom Achoki
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Jed Blore
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | - Mohsen Naghavi
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Misganaw A, Melaku YA, Tessema GA, Deribew A, Deribe K, Abera SF, Dessalegn M, Lakew Y, Bekele T, Haregu TN, Amare AT, Gedefaw M, Mohammed M, Yirsaw BD, Damtew SA, Achoki T, Blore J, Krohn KJ, Assefa Y, Kifle M, Naghavi M. National disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for 257 diseases and injuries in Ethiopia, 1990-2015: findings from the global burden of disease study 2015. Popul Health Metr 2017; 15:28. [PMID: 28732542 PMCID: PMC5521136 DOI: 10.1186/s12963-017-0146-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) provide a summary measure of health and can be a critical input to guide health systems, investments, and priority-setting in Ethiopia. We aimed to determine the leading causes of premature mortality and disability using DALYs and describe the relative burden of disease and injuries in Ethiopia. METHODS We used results from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2015 (GBD 2015) for non-fatal disease burden, cause-specific mortality, and all-cause mortality to derive age-standardized DALYs by sex for Ethiopia for each year. We calculated DALYs by summing years of life lost due to premature mortality (YLLs) and years lived with disability (YLDs) for each age group and sex. Causes of death by age, sex, and year were measured mainly using Causes of Death Ensemble modeling. To estimate YLDs, a Bayesian meta-regression method was used. We reported DALY rates per 100,000 for communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional (CMNN) disorders, non-communicable diseases, and injuries, with 95% uncertainty intervals (UI) for Ethiopia. RESULTS Non-communicable diseases caused 23,118.1 (95% UI, 17,124.4-30,579.6), CMNN disorders resulted in 20,200.7 (95% UI, 16,532.2-24,917.9), and injuries caused 3781 (95% UI, 2642.9-5500.6) age-standardized DALYs per 100,000 in Ethiopia in 2015. Lower respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and tuberculosis were the top three leading causes of DALYs in 2015, accounting for 2998 (95% UI, 2173.7-4029), 2592.5 (95% UI, 1850.7-3495.1), and 2562.9 (95% UI, 1466.1-4220.7) DALYs per 100,000, respectively. Ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease were the fourth and fifth leading causes of age-standardized DALYs, with rates of 2535.7 (95% UI, 1603.7-3843.2) and 2159.9 (95% UI, 1369.7-3216.3) per 100,000, respectively. The following causes showed a reduction of 60% or more over the last 25 years: lower respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, tuberculosis, neonatal encephalopathy, preterm birth complications, meningitis, malaria, protein-energy malnutrition, iron-deficiency anemia, measles, war and legal intervention, and maternal hemorrhage. CONCLUSIONS Ethiopia has been successful in reducing age-standardized DALYs related to most communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional deficiency diseases in the last 25 years, causing a major ranking shift to types of non-communicable disease. Lower respiratory infections, diarrheal disease, and tuberculosis continue to be leading causes of premature death, despite major declines in burden. Non-communicable diseases also showed reductions as premature mortality declined; however, disability outcomes for these causes did not show declines. Recently developed non-communicable disease strategies may need to be amended to focus on cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and major depressive disorders. Increasing trends of disabilities due to neonatal encephalopathy, preterm birth complications, and neonatal disorders should be emphasized in the national newborn survival strategy. Generating quality data should be a priority through the development of new initiatives such as vital events registration, surveillance programs, and surveys to address gaps in data. Measuring disease burden at subnational regional state levels and identifying variations with urban and rural population health should be conducted to support health policy in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awoke Misganaw
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Yohannes Adama Melaku
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mek’ele, Ethiopia
| | - Gizachew Assefa Tessema
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Department of Reproductive Health, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Amare Deribew
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- St. Paul Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Kebede Deribe
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Semaw Ferede Abera
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mek’ele, Ethiopia
- Institute for Biological Chemistry and Nutrition, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | - Yihunie Lakew
- Ethiopian Public Health Association, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tolesa Bekele
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Madda Walabu University, Bale Robe, Ethiopia
| | | | - Azmeraw T. Amare
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Federal Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | - Solomon Abrha Damtew
- College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolayta Sodo University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tom Achoki
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Jed Blore
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Kristopher J. Krohn
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Yibeltal Assefa
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Mahlet Kifle
- Federal Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mohsen Naghavi
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Madineh H, Yadollahi F, Yadollahi F, Mofrad EP, Kabiri M. Impact of garlic tablets on nosocomial infections in hospitalized patients in intensive care units. Electron Physician 2017; 9:4064-4071. [PMID: 28607636 PMCID: PMC5459273 DOI: 10.19082/4064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Nosocomial infections are one of the main causes of mortality and morbidity in hospitals, especially in intensive care units (ICUs). Objective The aim of this study was to examine the impact of garlic tablets on nosocomial infections in hospitalized patients in intensive care units. Methods This clinical trial was carried out on 94 patients, admitted to the intensive care units in Kashani and Al-Zahra hospitals from January 21, 2014 to December 20, 2014. Firstly, the patients were randomly selected by simple sampling, then they were assigned into case and control groups. The case group administered one 400 mg garlic tablet daily for 6 days and the control group received placebo. During the study, inflammatory blood factors and infection occurrence in the two groups were compared. The Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 22 through descriptive tests such as independent t-test, Chi-square test, ANOVA and exact Fisher test for the analyses of primary and secondary outcomes. Results During the study period, 78 cases of intravenous catheter tip were sent to laboratory for culture, of which, 37 cases were in the intervention group and 41 in the control group. Culture results of Catheter tips was positive in 5 cases and all five cases were in the control group. Frequency distribution of catheter tip culture was significantly higher in the control group than that of the intervention group (p=0.03). Conclusion Based on the results of our study, in people with weakened immune systems and in people with high incidence of opportunistic infections, it is necessary to strengthen their body’s immune system stimulants before dealing with these infectious agents, and cause decrease in the diseases insusceptible people. It was suggested that garlic supplementation has shown to be effective in patients admitted to ICU, who are highly susceptible to nosocomial infection, and it can be used for the prevention of septicemia and urinary tract infections. However, further research with larger sample size is needed. Trial registration The trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (http://www.irct.ir) with the Irct ID: IRCT207406156480N6. Funding Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences financially supported this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Madineh
- MD in Anesthesia, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Farrokh Yadollahi
- MD in Anesthesia, Fellowship of Intensive Care Medicine, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Farshad Yadollahi
- Resident of Anesthesia, Department of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Pouria Mofrad
- MD in Anesthesia, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Majid Kabiri
- MD in Anesthesia, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
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Hodge JG, Gostin LO, Parmet WE, Nuzzo JB, Phelan A. Federal Powers to Control Communicable Conditions: Call for Reforms to Assure National Preparedness and Promote Global Security. Health Secur 2016; 15:123-126. [PMID: 27991831 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2016.0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Torane V, Kuyare S, Nataraj G, Mehta P, Dutta S, Sarkar B. Phenotypic and antibiogram pattern of V. cholerae isolates from a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai during 2004-2013: a retrospective cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e012638. [PMID: 27888174 PMCID: PMC5168530 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-012638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cholera is a major gastroenteric disease with reports on fluctuation and resistance. Hence, the objective is to determine the trend in seasonality, resistance pattern, prevalent biotypes, serotypes and phage types between 2004 and 2013 among Vibrio cholerae isolates. DESIGN A retrospective cross-sectional study. SETTINGS A single-centre study was carried out at a tertiary care hospital in a metropolitan city (Mumbai) of a developing country (India). METHODS Records of stool specimen cultures of patients with suspected cholera from January 2004 to December 2013 were analysed. The organisms were identified as per standard protocol. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed as per Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute. Biotyping, serotyping and phage typing were carried out. From the confirmed cases of cholera, demographic and laboratory details were noted. Descriptive analysis was used and the data were presented in the form of percentages. RESULTS Vibrio cholerae was predominant in males and was isolated from 9.41% (439/4664) of stool specimens. Variability was found in terms of the gross appearance of stool specimens, seasonal trend and antibiotic resistance pattern. The antimicrobial susceptibility showed a waxing and waning pattern for most of the antibiotics (ampicillin, cefuroxime, chloramphenicol, tetracycline) tested, while for a few others the strains were either uniformly sensitive (gentamicin, norfloxacin) or resistant (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, nalidixic acid). All isolates belonged to subgroup O1 and biotype El Tor. The most common serotype was Ogawa. The predominant phage type was T2 (old scheme) and T27 (new scheme). CONCLUSIONS The predominant biotype, serotype and phage type were El Tor, Ogawa and T27 phage, respectively. The changing trends in antimicrobial resistance pattern over the years necessitate continued epidemiological and microbiological surveillance of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Torane
- Department of Microbiology, Seth G.S. Medical College & KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - S Kuyare
- Department of Microbiology, Seth G.S. Medical College & KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - G Nataraj
- Department of Microbiology, Seth G.S. Medical College & KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - P Mehta
- Department of Microbiology, Seth G.S. Medical College & KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - S Dutta
- Bacteriology Division, National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED), Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - B Sarkar
- Bacteriology Division, National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED), Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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Stoler J, Awandare GA. Febrile illness diagnostics and the malaria-industrial complex: a socio-environmental perspective. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:683. [PMID: 27855644 PMCID: PMC5114833 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-2025-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Global prioritization of single-disease eradication programs over improvements to basic diagnostic capacity in the Global South have left the world unprepared for epidemics of chikungunya, Ebola, Zika, and whatever lies on the horizon. The medical establishment is slowly realizing that in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), particularly urban areas, up to a third of patients suffering from acute fever do not receive a correct diagnosis of their infection. Main body Malaria is the most common diagnosis for febrile patients in low-resource health care settings, and malaria misdiagnosis has soared due to the institutionalization of malaria as the primary febrile illness of SSA by international development organizations and national malaria control programs. This has inadvertently created a “malaria-industrial complex” and historically obstructed our complete understanding of the continent’s complex communicable disease epidemiology, which is currently dominated by a mélange of undiagnosed febrile illnesses. We synthesize interdisciplinary literature from Ghana to highlight the complexity of communicable disease care in SSA from biomedical, social, and environmental perspectives, and suggest a way forward. Conclusion A socio-environmental approach to acute febrile illness etiology, diagnostics, and management would lead to substantial health gains in Africa, including more efficient malaria control. Such an approach would also improve global preparedness for future epidemics of emerging pathogens such as chikungunya, Ebola, and Zika, all of which originated in SSA with limited baseline understanding of their epidemiology despite clinical recognition of these viruses for many decades. Impending ACT resistance, new vaccine delays, and climate change all beckon our attention to proper diagnosis of fevers in order to maximize limited health care resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Stoler
- Department of Geography and Regional Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA. .,Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA. .,Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
| | - Gordon A Awandare
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.,Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
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Roe C, May LS. A case of leprosy in Malawi. Making the final push towards eradication: a clinical and public health perspective. Infect Dis Poverty 2016; 5:90. [PMID: 27585828 PMCID: PMC5009641 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-016-0176-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Statistically speaking, Malawi has achieved the World Health Organisation's target for the elimination of leprosy (<1 case per 10 000 people), yet the disease is still considered a leading cause of long term physical disability. In this case study the authors discuss the presentation of a 39-year-old gentleman to a district hospital in Malawi with multibacillary, lepromatous leprosy. The condition was initially managed in the community as an 'allergy' which suggests that local barriers currently hinder the detection of leprosy in this developing primary care system. Leprosy is a multi-system disease and this gentleman demonstrated evidence of lepromatous orchitis. Promoting an awareness of these systemic manifestations will increase the the detection of complications and circumvent long term morbidity. Efforts to optimise systems of detection, management and public and professional education are essential to drive eradication in these at-risk populations. At an international level, we must strive to fulfil the objectives outlined by the 'Enhanced Global Strategy for Further Reducing the Disease Burden due to Leprosy for 2011-2015'. At a national level, local research should delineate community factors that impede the eradication of leprosy. Developing new diagnostic and epidemiologic tools, more efficacious chemoprophylactic regimens and vaccination for endemic regions would facilitate these efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cieron Roe
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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Abstract
Infectious disease during an emergency condition can raise the death rate 60 times in comparison to other causes including trauma. An epidemic, or outbreak, can occur when several aspects of the agent (pathogen), population (hosts), and the environment create an ideal situation for spread. Overcrowding, poor regional design and hygiene due to poverty, dirty drinking water, rapid climate changes, and natural disasters, can lead to conditions that allow easier transmission of disease. Once it has been established that an emergency condition exists, there must be a prompt and thorough response for communicable disease control. A camp should be created, and the disease managed rapidly. The overall goals are rapid assessment, prevention, surveillance, outbreak control, and disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Ameli
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, USA
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Oni T, Unwin N. Why the communicable/non- communicable disease dichotomy is problematic for public health control strategies: implications of multimorbidity for health systems in an era of health transition. Int Health 2015; 7:390-9. [PMID: 26103981 PMCID: PMC4638105 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihv040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In today's globalized world, rapid urbanization, mechanization of the rural economy, and the activities of trans-national food, drink and tobacco corporations are associated with behavioral changes that increase the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). These changes include less healthy diet, lower physical activity, tobacco smoking and increased alcohol consumption. As a result, population health profiles are rapidly changing. For example, the global burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus is expected to double by 2030, with 80% of adult cases occurring in low and middle-income countries (LMIC). Many LMIC are undergoing rapid changes associated with developing high rates of NCD while concomitantly battling high levels of certain communicable diseases, including HIV, TB and malaria. This has population health, health systems and economic implications for these countries. This critical review synthesizes evidence on the overlap and interactions between established communicable and emerging NCD epidemics in LMIC. The review focuses on HIV, TB and malaria and explores the disease-specific interactions with prevalent NCDs in LMIC including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic renal disease, epilepsy and neurocognitive diseases. We highlight the complexity, bi-directionality and heterogeneity of these interactions and discuss the implications for health systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tolu Oni
- Division of Public Health Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa Clinical Infectious Disease Research Initiative, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nigel Unwin
- Chronic Disease Research Centre, Tropical Medicine Research Institute, University of the West Indies, Bridgetown, Barbados MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, UK
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Fuller CW, Thiele ES, Flores M, Junge A, Netto D, Dvorak J. A successful nationwide implementation of the 'FIFA 11 for Health' programme in Brazilian elementary schools. Br J Sports Med 2015; 49:623-9. [PMID: 25805807 PMCID: PMC4413689 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2015-094767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To deliver a nationwide implementation of the ‘FIFA 11 for Health’ programme in Brazil and to compare the outcomes with results obtained previously in Sub-Saharan Africa. Method A cohort study among 3694 Brazilian children aged 9–12 years within 128 elementary schools situated in 12 cities in the five Regions of Brazil. The ‘FIFA 11 for Health’ programme contains 11 90 min sessions: the first 45 min serve to encourage physical activity through the development of football skills (Play Football) and the second 45 min provide a vehicle for delivering 10 health messages (Play Fair). We measured preintervention and postintervention health knowledge (29-item questionnaire) and the children's evaluation of the programme (6-item questionnaire). Results Mean age of the children across the five Regions was 10.6 years (range 9.2–11.6). The mean preintervention health knowledge score for the five Regions was 60.2% (range 53.8–65.3%); the mean postintervention score was 78.6% (range 70.7–86.8%); thus the mean increase in health knowledge was 18.4% (range 13.6–29.1%). 91% of the children gave a positive evaluation for the programme (range across five Regions: 82.3–96.7%). Summary The study showed that the ‘FIFA 11 for Health’ programme, which was originally developed in English and translated into another language, was delivered successfully with results equivalent to those previously obtained in Sub-Saharan Africa. The programme was effective across the five Regions of Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin W Fuller
- FIFA Medical Assessment and Research Centre, Zurich, Switzerland Colin Fuller Consultancy Ltd, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | | | - Manoel Flores
- Brazilian Football Confederation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Astrid Junge
- Colin Fuller Consultancy Ltd, Sutton Bonington, UK Medical School Hamburg (MSH), Hamburg, Germany Schulthess Clinic, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Diogo Netto
- Brazilian Football Confederation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jiri Dvorak
- Colin Fuller Consultancy Ltd, Sutton Bonington, UK Schulthess Clinic, Zurich, Switzerland Fédération Internationale de Football Association, Zurich, Switzerland
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Driedger SM, Cooper EJ, Moghadas SM. Developing model-based public health policy through knowledge translation: the need for a 'Communities of Practice'. Public Health 2014; 128:561-7. [PMID: 24461909 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2013.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Revised: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 10/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic prompted public health agencies worldwide to respond in a context of substantial uncertainty. While many lessons around successful management strategies were learned during the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic, the usefulness and impact of mathematical models to optimize policy decisions in protecting public health were poorly realized. The authors explored the experiences of modellers and public health practitioners in trying to develop model-based public health policies in the management of the 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic in Canada. STUDY DESIGN A qualitative case study design based on interviews and other textual data was used. METHODS Individual interviews were conducted with mathematical modellers and public health professionals from academia and government health departments during the second wave of the 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic (both prior to and following the vaccine roll-out), using a convergent interviewing process. Interviews were supplemented with discussions held during three separate workshops involving representatives from these groups on the role of modelling in pandemic preparedness and responses. NVivo9™ was used to analyse interview data and associated notes. RESULTS Mathematical models were underutilized during the response phase of the 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic, largely because many public health professionals were unaware of modelling infrastructure in Canada. Challenges were reflected in three ways: 1) the relevance of models to public health priorities; 2) the need for clear communication and plain language around modelling and its contributions and limitations; and 3) the need for increased trust and collaboration to develop strong working relationships. CONCLUSIONS Developing a 'Communities of Practice' between public health professionals and mathematical modellers during inter-pandemic periods based on common targeted goals, using plain language, and where relationships between individuals and organizations are developed early, could be an effective strategy to assist the process of public health policy decision-making, particularly when characterized by high levels of uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Driedger
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, S113-750 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0W3, Canada.
| | - E J Cooper
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, S113-750 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0W3, Canada.
| | - S M Moghadas
- Centre for Disease Modelling, York Institute for Health Research, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, Ontario M3J 1P3, Canada.
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