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Shenyang Pharmaceutical University Journal editors visited Press office
Shenyang Pharmaceutical University Journal editors visited Press office
Shenyang Pharmaceutical University Journal editors visited Press office
One Health Bulletin editorial office attended the 5th Forum of Tropical Medicine, Tropical Medicine Alliance
One Health Bulletin editorial office attended the 5th Forum of Tropical Medicine, Tropical Medicine Alliance
The Editor-in-Chief of Cell Research and Cell Discovery share insights
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One Health Research Foundation chairman engaged in scholarly dialogue at Press office
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Dr. Dirk Engels serves as the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of One Health Bulletin
Dr. Dirk Engels serves as the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of One Health Bulletin
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Editorial team attended the Second Belt and Road Tropical Medical Alliance (BRTMA) Forum
Editorial team attended the Second Belt and Road Tropical Medical Alliance (BRTMA) Forum
Prof. Marcel Tanner joins the Editorial Board of One Health Bulletin
Prof. Marcel Tanner joins the Editorial Board of One Health Bulletin
Prof. Marcel Tanner joins the Editorial Board of One Health Bulletin
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2025,4,1, DOI: 10.4103/ohbl.ohbl_63_24
Abstract:
Objective: To investigate the bacterial microbiota in pigeon droppings collected from large food storage facilities in Kannur district of Kerala, India, focusing on the potential public health risks posed by these birds in urban environments using metagenomic analysis targeting V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA . Methods: The study identifies and catalogs bacteria in both dry (PY1) and fresh pigeon droppings (PY2) using 1 g of pooled samples collected from multiple sites utilizing metagenomic analysis through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: The results revealed a diverse microbial composition in both fresh and dry pigeon droppings, with notable genera including Kocuria (12% in PY1 and 2% in PY2), Fusobacterium (48% in PY2), and Streptococcus (22% in PY2), among others. The presence of pathogenic bacteria like Acinetobacter (1% in PY1) and Fusobacterium (48% in PY2) underscored the importance of proper hygiene practices in urban settings to mitigate zoonotic disease transmission. Conclusions: This study underscored the significance of metagenomic analysis targeting the V3-V4 region of 16s rRNA in elucidating microbial diversity. The observed differences between fresh and dry pigeon droppings highlight the influence of environmental factors on bacterial community composition. These findings emphasized the necessity of continous surveillance to enchance hygeine practices and mitigate contamination risks in food storage environments.
Objective: To investigate the bacterial microbiota in pigeon droppings collected from large food storage facilities in Kannur district of Kerala, India, focusing on the potential public health risks posed by these birds in urban environments using metagenomic analysis targeting V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA . Methods: The study identifies and catalogs bacteria in both dry (PY1) and fresh pigeon droppings (PY2) using 1 g of pooled samples collected from multiple sites utilizing metagenomic analysis through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: The results revealed a diverse microbial composition in both fresh and dry pigeon droppings, with notable genera including Kocuria (12% in PY1 and 2% in PY2), Fusobacterium (48% in PY2), and Streptococcus (22% in PY2), among others. The presence of pathogenic bacteria like Acinetobacter (1% in PY1) and Fusobacterium (48% in PY2) underscored the importance of proper hygiene practices in urban settings to mitigate zoonotic disease transmission. Conclusions: This study underscored the significance of metagenomic analysis targeting the V3-V4 region of 16s rRNA in elucidating microbial diversity. The observed differences between fresh and dry pigeon droppings highlight the influence of environmental factors on bacterial community composition. These findings emphasized the necessity of continous surveillance to enchance hygeine practices and mitigate contamination risks in food storage environments.
Revathi Ulaganeethi, Nonika Rajkumari, Palanivel Chinnakali, Priyanka Jasmine, Gowri Dorairajan, Ganesh Kumar Saya
2025,4,2, DOI: 10.4103/ohbl.ohbl_73_24
Abstract:
Objective: Benzimidazole resistance in helminths is linked to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at codons 167, 198, and 200. We studied the prevalence of these SNPs in the β-tubulin gene of Ascaris (A.) lumbricoides and Necator (N.) americanus so as to explore the resistance to benzimidazoles in South India. Methods: DNA extracts of stool samples positive for A. lumbricoides and N. americanus were used for identification of SNPs. We utilized 22 samples to examine codon 167 SNPs and 15 samples for codon 198 and 200 SNPs in N. americanus. Three samples were used for SNP analysis of A. lumbricoides. Two conventional PCR assays were standardised for N. americanus (one targeting SNPs at coden 167 and another for 198 and 200), covering three SNPs, while a single PCR was developed for A. lumbricoides. The PCR amplified products were sequenced and compared with published sequences in NCBI for SNP identification. Results: A total of 650 stool samples were collected from pregnant women and screened for the presence of A. lumbricoides and N. americanus, out of which 22 positive samples were used to examine codon 167 SNPs and 15 samples for codon 198 and 200 SNPs in N. americanus, and three samples were used for SNP analysis of A. lumbricoides. Despite thorough analysis, no reported SNPs were identified in A. lumbricoides and N. americanus samples. These findings suggest a potential lack of diversity in the β-tubulin gene within the examined populations. Conclusions: The findings suggest that the parasite species circulating in the South Indian region are susceptible to benzimidazoles. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt in India to evaluate the SNPs in two of the STH parasites using cost-effective conventional PCR and Sanger sequencing. Although biannual deworming has been implemented in India since 2015, no resistance to benzimidazoles has been observed. This method is suitable even in resource-limited settings. However, due to the limited sample size, future research with a larger sample size is essential to confirm these results and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the susceptibility of these parasites to benzimidazoles in the broader population.
Objective: Benzimidazole resistance in helminths is linked to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at codons 167, 198, and 200. We studied the prevalence of these SNPs in the β-tubulin gene of Ascaris (A.) lumbricoides and Necator (N.) americanus so as to explore the resistance to benzimidazoles in South India. Methods: DNA extracts of stool samples positive for A. lumbricoides and N. americanus were used for identification of SNPs. We utilized 22 samples to examine codon 167 SNPs and 15 samples for codon 198 and 200 SNPs in N. americanus. Three samples were used for SNP analysis of A. lumbricoides. Two conventional PCR assays were standardised for N. americanus (one targeting SNPs at coden 167 and another for 198 and 200), covering three SNPs, while a single PCR was developed for A. lumbricoides. The PCR amplified products were sequenced and compared with published sequences in NCBI for SNP identification. Results: A total of 650 stool samples were collected from pregnant women and screened for the presence of A. lumbricoides and N. americanus, out of which 22 positive samples were used to examine codon 167 SNPs and 15 samples for codon 198 and 200 SNPs in N. americanus, and three samples were used for SNP analysis of A. lumbricoides. Despite thorough analysis, no reported SNPs were identified in A. lumbricoides and N. americanus samples. These findings suggest a potential lack of diversity in the β-tubulin gene within the examined populations. Conclusions: The findings suggest that the parasite species circulating in the South Indian region are susceptible to benzimidazoles. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt in India to evaluate the SNPs in two of the STH parasites using cost-effective conventional PCR and Sanger sequencing. Although biannual deworming has been implemented in India since 2015, no resistance to benzimidazoles has been observed. This method is suitable even in resource-limited settings. However, due to the limited sample size, future research with a larger sample size is essential to confirm these results and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the susceptibility of these parasites to benzimidazoles in the broader population.
2025,4,4, DOI: 10.4103/ohbl.ohbl_69_24
Abstract:
Neglected tropical disease, visceral leishmaniasis is a significant health issue globally, caused by Leishmania donovani , a protozoan parasite, transmitted by an insect vector sandfly Phlebotomus (P). argentipes. Understanding the disease transmission dynamics is crucial, with P. argentipes being the primary vector in the Indian subcontinent. The study utilized citation network analysis (CNA) to investigate the scientific literature on the sandfly species P. argentipes, focusing on the distribution of publications over the past 80 years. A total of 2 601 publications were initially retrieved, refined through manual screening to 400 relevant articles published by 1 209 authors in 150 journals in the last eight decades. Data included publication details, such as association of authors, citations, journals, and affiliations. CNA involved the use of VOSviewer software for creating bibliographic networks, visualizing and analyzing citation networks. Core publications highlighted key research areas, including vector control, taxonomy, genetics, and epidemiology. Collaboration across countries and disciplines was evident, emphasizing the global effort to combat visceral leishmaniasis. By analyzing extensive publication data, CNA revealed key research clusters and the most cited works, showing that research into visceral leishmaniasis transmission and vector control has intensified since the 2000s, with significant contributions from India which is highly endemic for visceral leishmaniasis followed by USA, and the UK.
Neglected tropical disease, visceral leishmaniasis is a significant health issue globally, caused by Leishmania donovani , a protozoan parasite, transmitted by an insect vector sandfly Phlebotomus (P). argentipes. Understanding the disease transmission dynamics is crucial, with P. argentipes being the primary vector in the Indian subcontinent. The study utilized citation network analysis (CNA) to investigate the scientific literature on the sandfly species P. argentipes, focusing on the distribution of publications over the past 80 years. A total of 2 601 publications were initially retrieved, refined through manual screening to 400 relevant articles published by 1 209 authors in 150 journals in the last eight decades. Data included publication details, such as association of authors, citations, journals, and affiliations. CNA involved the use of VOSviewer software for creating bibliographic networks, visualizing and analyzing citation networks. Core publications highlighted key research areas, including vector control, taxonomy, genetics, and epidemiology. Collaboration across countries and disciplines was evident, emphasizing the global effort to combat visceral leishmaniasis. By analyzing extensive publication data, CNA revealed key research clusters and the most cited works, showing that research into visceral leishmaniasis transmission and vector control has intensified since the 2000s, with significant contributions from India which is highly endemic for visceral leishmaniasis followed by USA, and the UK.
2025,4,5, DOI: 10.4103/ohbl.ohbl_3_25
Abstract:
Objective: To determine the antibiotic susceptibility patterns ofheavy metal-tolerant Gram-negative bacteria isolated from a majordumpsite in Ibadan, Nigeria.Methods: Gram-negative bacteria were isolated using MacConkeyand eosin methylene blue agar and presumptive identification tospecies level was done using conventional methods. The isolateswere screened for their tolerance to heavy metals. Antimicrobialsusceptibility was tested by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method withthe following antibiotics: tetracycline (10 μg), cotrimoxazole (25μg), gentamicin (10 μg), cefuroxime (30 μg), chloramphenicol (10μg), ceftriaxone (30 μg), cefotaxime (30 μg), ciprofloxacin (5 μg),amikacin (30 μg), ceftazidime (30 μg), and meropenem (10 μg). Thezones of growth inhibition were interpreted based on the ClinicalLaboratory Scientific Institute. Identification of the most metal-tolerantisolates was done using 16S rRNA.Results: A total of 79 Gram-negative bacteria were isolated, 31 ofwhich tolerated a minimum of three heavy metals (Pb at 10 350 μg/mL; Cu at 750 μg/mL; Cr at 750 μg/mL in the wet season and Pb at2 350 μg/mL; Cu at 450 μg/mL; Cr at 300 μg/mL in the dry season).All 31 isolates showed varying degrees of multiple antibioticresistance indexes. The isolates showed the highest resistance tocefuroxime and meropenem (100%) and the least resistance tochloramphenicol (51.6%). The most metal-tolerant isolates wereidentified as Aeromonas hydrophila and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.Conclusions: This study revealed that the waste dumpsite containssignificant amounts of heavy metals and antibiotic-resistant bacteriawhich may pose serious public health risks if they enter the foodchain. The study highlighted the health risks of using untreateddumpsite soils for vegetable farming due to pathogen and heavymetal transfer, and it is unsuitable for agricultural use.
Objective: To determine the antibiotic susceptibility patterns ofheavy metal-tolerant Gram-negative bacteria isolated from a majordumpsite in Ibadan, Nigeria.Methods: Gram-negative bacteria were isolated using MacConkeyand eosin methylene blue agar and presumptive identification tospecies level was done using conventional methods. The isolateswere screened for their tolerance to heavy metals. Antimicrobialsusceptibility was tested by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method withthe following antibiotics: tetracycline (10 μg), cotrimoxazole (25μg), gentamicin (10 μg), cefuroxime (30 μg), chloramphenicol (10μg), ceftriaxone (30 μg), cefotaxime (30 μg), ciprofloxacin (5 μg),amikacin (30 μg), ceftazidime (30 μg), and meropenem (10 μg). Thezones of growth inhibition were interpreted based on the ClinicalLaboratory Scientific Institute. Identification of the most metal-tolerantisolates was done using 16S rRNA.Results: A total of 79 Gram-negative bacteria were isolated, 31 ofwhich tolerated a minimum of three heavy metals (Pb at 10 350 μg/mL; Cu at 750 μg/mL; Cr at 750 μg/mL in the wet season and Pb at2 350 μg/mL; Cu at 450 μg/mL; Cr at 300 μg/mL in the dry season).All 31 isolates showed varying degrees of multiple antibioticresistance indexes. The isolates showed the highest resistance tocefuroxime and meropenem (100%) and the least resistance tochloramphenicol (51.6%). The most metal-tolerant isolates wereidentified as Aeromonas hydrophila and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.Conclusions: This study revealed that the waste dumpsite containssignificant amounts of heavy metals and antibiotic-resistant bacteriawhich may pose serious public health risks if they enter the foodchain. The study highlighted the health risks of using untreateddumpsite soils for vegetable farming due to pathogen and heavymetal transfer, and it is unsuitable for agricultural use.
2025,4,6, DOI: 10.4103/ohbl.ohbl_7_25
Abstract:
Objective: To develop mosquito trap prototypes and compare theirefficiency and cost-effectiveness with commercial products. Methods: The frameworks for mosquito trap prototypes wereseparately developed and assembled. The warmth retentionefficiency and duration of carbon dioxide (up to 400 ppm) releasewere determined for the prototypes. Mosquito trap efficiency wasdetermined by comparing the number of mosquitoes trapped in stickyglue only, mosquito trap prototypes I, II, and III, and commercialproducts I, II. A comparative analysis of cost, durability, availability,power consumption and effectiveness was also performed. Resultsare expressed as mean±standard deviation. A P<0.05 was consideredstatistically significant. Results: Mosquito trap prototypes I, II and III were successfullydeveloped. The warmth retention and carbon dioxide release (up to400 ppm) were sustained for about two hours after the assembly ofthe prototypes. Mosquito trap experiments demonstrated significantlyhigher mosquito trap efficiency for mosquito trap prototype III, with6.3±3.1 mosquito trapped using citric acid:sodium bicarbonate (1:2)and 4.6±2.1 mosquito trapped using citric acid:sodium bicarbonate(1:1). No mosquitoes were trapped in both commercial mosquitotraps. Furthermore, commercial mosquito traps were expensive, haduncertain durability, longer access times after ordering, and requireda continuous power supply. In contrast, the developed mosquito trapprototype III was cheap, easy to handle, durable, easily available,required low power consumption and highly effective in trappingmosquitoes. Conclusions: Mosquito trap prototype III provides an economicaland viable solution for trapping mosquitoes, mainly for low-incomepopulations.
Objective: To develop mosquito trap prototypes and compare theirefficiency and cost-effectiveness with commercial products. Methods: The frameworks for mosquito trap prototypes wereseparately developed and assembled. The warmth retentionefficiency and duration of carbon dioxide (up to 400 ppm) releasewere determined for the prototypes. Mosquito trap efficiency wasdetermined by comparing the number of mosquitoes trapped in stickyglue only, mosquito trap prototypes I, II, and III, and commercialproducts I, II. A comparative analysis of cost, durability, availability,power consumption and effectiveness was also performed. Resultsare expressed as mean±standard deviation. A P<0.05 was consideredstatistically significant. Results: Mosquito trap prototypes I, II and III were successfullydeveloped. The warmth retention and carbon dioxide release (up to400 ppm) were sustained for about two hours after the assembly ofthe prototypes. Mosquito trap experiments demonstrated significantlyhigher mosquito trap efficiency for mosquito trap prototype III, with6.3±3.1 mosquito trapped using citric acid:sodium bicarbonate (1:2)and 4.6±2.1 mosquito trapped using citric acid:sodium bicarbonate(1:1). No mosquitoes were trapped in both commercial mosquitotraps. Furthermore, commercial mosquito traps were expensive, haduncertain durability, longer access times after ordering, and requireda continuous power supply. In contrast, the developed mosquito trapprototype III was cheap, easy to handle, durable, easily available,required low power consumption and highly effective in trappingmosquitoes. Conclusions: Mosquito trap prototype III provides an economicaland viable solution for trapping mosquitoes, mainly for low-incomepopulations.
Akshithanand Kuzhikkat Jayaprakasan, Arun Ghosh, Bratati Banerjee, Mongjam Meghachandra Singh, Hariom Kumar Solanki
2025,4,7, DOI: 10.4103/ohbl.ohbl_10_25
Abstract:
History of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) dates back to the time from the discovery of antibiotics and has emerged as a significant public health problem. The recent COVID-19 pandemic saw the widespread and irrational use of antibiotics on a large scale. In this review on AMR we have compared the burden and impact of AMR in terms of morbidity, mortality and expenditure. Multiple strategies and action plans have been laid out by global leaders, and also in India to tackle the pervasive issue of AMR. There are a number of factors driving AMR, and recently major humanitarian crises around the world have come up as significant drivers and pose challenges to curbing AMR, which requires collaborative, multisectoral and dedicated efforts from all sides to bring down AMR. Like any other public health issue, attempts to control AMR are plagued with hurdles thwarting our efforts.
History of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) dates back to the time from the discovery of antibiotics and has emerged as a significant public health problem. The recent COVID-19 pandemic saw the widespread and irrational use of antibiotics on a large scale. In this review on AMR we have compared the burden and impact of AMR in terms of morbidity, mortality and expenditure. Multiple strategies and action plans have been laid out by global leaders, and also in India to tackle the pervasive issue of AMR. There are a number of factors driving AMR, and recently major humanitarian crises around the world have come up as significant drivers and pose challenges to curbing AMR, which requires collaborative, multisectoral and dedicated efforts from all sides to bring down AMR. Like any other public health issue, attempts to control AMR are plagued with hurdles thwarting our efforts.
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2021,1,1, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.329022
Abstract:
2023,3,2, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.363564
Abstract:
Objective: This study aimed to determine the carriage of extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes in third-generation cephalosporin-resistant (3GCR) Escherichia (E.) coli from frequently contacted surfaces, wastewater and disinfectant-cleaning solutions of selected healthcare institutions in South-western Nigeria. Methods: Samples were collected over three months for the isolation of 3GCR E. coli on MacConkey agar containing 6 μg/mL of cefotaxime. 3GCR E. coli isolates were identified by detection of uidA gene and susceptibility to selected antibiotics was performed using disc-diffusion method. Detection of ESBL genes was done using primer-specific PCR. Results: A total of 22 ESBL-producing E. coli (11 each from the frequently contacted surfaces and wastewater) were obtained from the pool of 3GCR isolates in this study. No isolate was recovered from the disinfectant-cleaning solution. All the ESBL-producing E. coli obtained from the frequently contacted surfaces and wastewater were multidrug resistant, with complete resistance observed to ampicillin, cefotaxime, cefpodoxime, tetracycline and ertapenem. The ESBL genotyping showed that 54.5% carried blaCTX-M , 63.6% carried blaTEM and 9.1% carried blaSHV in isolates from the frequently contacted surfaces, while 63.6%, 9.1% and 18.2% carried blaCTX-M , blaTEM and blaSHV , respectively, in the isolates obtained from the wastewater. Conclusions: This study showed a high burden of multidrug resistance E. coli on frequently contacted surfaces and wastewater of the studied healthcare institutions, indicating the need for good hygiene and proper mitigation measures to prevent potential public health and environmental challenges.
Objective: This study aimed to determine the carriage of extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes in third-generation cephalosporin-resistant (3GCR) Escherichia (E.) coli from frequently contacted surfaces, wastewater and disinfectant-cleaning solutions of selected healthcare institutions in South-western Nigeria. Methods: Samples were collected over three months for the isolation of 3GCR E. coli on MacConkey agar containing 6 μg/mL of cefotaxime. 3GCR E. coli isolates were identified by detection of uidA gene and susceptibility to selected antibiotics was performed using disc-diffusion method. Detection of ESBL genes was done using primer-specific PCR. Results: A total of 22 ESBL-producing E. coli (11 each from the frequently contacted surfaces and wastewater) were obtained from the pool of 3GCR isolates in this study. No isolate was recovered from the disinfectant-cleaning solution. All the ESBL-producing E. coli obtained from the frequently contacted surfaces and wastewater were multidrug resistant, with complete resistance observed to ampicillin, cefotaxime, cefpodoxime, tetracycline and ertapenem. The ESBL genotyping showed that 54.5% carried blaCTX-M , 63.6% carried blaTEM and 9.1% carried blaSHV in isolates from the frequently contacted surfaces, while 63.6%, 9.1% and 18.2% carried blaCTX-M , blaTEM and blaSHV , respectively, in the isolates obtained from the wastewater. Conclusions: This study showed a high burden of multidrug resistance E. coli on frequently contacted surfaces and wastewater of the studied healthcare institutions, indicating the need for good hygiene and proper mitigation measures to prevent potential public health and environmental challenges.
2023,3,3, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.389607
Abstract:
Infectious diseases remain a serious concern all over the world due to its significant impact on public health and economic stability. About 30 new causative organisms have been discovered over the past few decades, most of which are zoonotic in origins. Thus, infectious diseases are now posing a never-ending challenge to human civilisation. As a result, constant awareness along with adoption of effective strategies to control infectious disease spread has now become crucial. This review gives valuable information on diseases that emerge and re-emerge every now and then. The paper also highlights challenges related to tackling of infectious diseases in present scenario and significance of employing strategies for effective control in near future against various deadly infectious diseases like COVID-19.
Infectious diseases remain a serious concern all over the world due to its significant impact on public health and economic stability. About 30 new causative organisms have been discovered over the past few decades, most of which are zoonotic in origins. Thus, infectious diseases are now posing a never-ending challenge to human civilisation. As a result, constant awareness along with adoption of effective strategies to control infectious disease spread has now become crucial. This review gives valuable information on diseases that emerge and re-emerge every now and then. The paper also highlights challenges related to tackling of infectious diseases in present scenario and significance of employing strategies for effective control in near future against various deadly infectious diseases like COVID-19.
2023,3,4, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.378589
Abstract:
Objective: : To determine the potential risk factor of COVID-19 severity and length of hospitalization, the association between multiple antibiotics administration and the risk of severe COVID-19. Methods: :A case-control study of 58 hospitalized COVID-19 patients (the case group) and 120 non-hospitalized home isolated COVID-19 patients (the control group) was conducted. Data were collected using hospital medical records and verbal questionnaires for the participants. Results: : Totally 89.2% of non-hospitalized mild COVID-19 patients received ≤2 courses of antibiotics/year, while 36.0% of hospitalized patients received ≥4 courses of antibiotics, 56.9% received 2-3 courses of antibiotics/year and only 6.9% of them were exposed to ≤2 courses of antibiotics/year. our study emphasizes that the usage of 4 courses or higher per year was a significant risk factor for hospitalization [OR: 17.5; 95% CI (2.596-118.263); P=0.003], while the usage of ≤2 courses was a preventive predictor for severity and hospitalization [OR: 0.072; 95%CI (0.006-0.900); P=0.041]. Furthermore, age was associated with 8.4% increase in the odds of severe COVID-19 [OR: 1.084; 95% CI (1.024-1.148), P=0.005], and females were 89.1% less likely to hospitalized than males [OR: 0.109; 95% CI (0.024-0.498); P= 0.004]. Our study shows that 70.4% of cases misused antibiotics and administered the antibiotics themselves without a physician’s prescription. Around 50.0% of cases never completed the ideal duration of the course in contrast to controls, of which only 23.2% did not complete the ideal duration. Conclusions: : Our study shows that antibiotics misuse and overuse may be a potential risk factor for COVID-19 severity and hospitalization.
Objective: : To determine the potential risk factor of COVID-19 severity and length of hospitalization, the association between multiple antibiotics administration and the risk of severe COVID-19. Methods: :A case-control study of 58 hospitalized COVID-19 patients (the case group) and 120 non-hospitalized home isolated COVID-19 patients (the control group) was conducted. Data were collected using hospital medical records and verbal questionnaires for the participants. Results: : Totally 89.2% of non-hospitalized mild COVID-19 patients received ≤2 courses of antibiotics/year, while 36.0% of hospitalized patients received ≥4 courses of antibiotics, 56.9% received 2-3 courses of antibiotics/year and only 6.9% of them were exposed to ≤2 courses of antibiotics/year. our study emphasizes that the usage of 4 courses or higher per year was a significant risk factor for hospitalization [OR: 17.5; 95% CI (2.596-118.263); P=0.003], while the usage of ≤2 courses was a preventive predictor for severity and hospitalization [OR: 0.072; 95%CI (0.006-0.900); P=0.041]. Furthermore, age was associated with 8.4% increase in the odds of severe COVID-19 [OR: 1.084; 95% CI (1.024-1.148), P=0.005], and females were 89.1% less likely to hospitalized than males [OR: 0.109; 95% CI (0.024-0.498); P= 0.004]. Our study shows that 70.4% of cases misused antibiotics and administered the antibiotics themselves without a physician’s prescription. Around 50.0% of cases never completed the ideal duration of the course in contrast to controls, of which only 23.2% did not complete the ideal duration. Conclusions: : Our study shows that antibiotics misuse and overuse may be a potential risk factor for COVID-19 severity and hospitalization.
2023,3,5, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.363563
Abstract:
Rabies is widely prevalent worldwide, and China is among the countries most affected. To achieve the goal of zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030, dog management and immunization must be improved and comprehensive prevention and control measures must be adopted. We analyze the epidemiological profile of rabies in China in the past 30 years to clarify the origins of China’s high prevalence, and propose a comprehensive rabies prevention and control concept based on “One Health” by drawing on successful international control efforts.Results: The Omicron variants had the characteristics of high insidiousness, rapid transmission, high infectivity, and short incubation period, which were consistent with the characteristics of outbreaks caused by Omicron in other regions in China and abroad. There were 568 978 asymptomatic infections in Shanghai from Feburary 26 to June 30, 2022, accounting for 90.73% of the SARS-CoV-2 infections in this outbreak wave. It’s significantly different from a total of 23 277 SARS-CoV-2 infections in China between March 31, 2020 and August 8, 2021, of which 41.97% of the cases were asymptomatic infections. Conclusions: Compared with previous outbreaks emerged in China, the Omicron outbreak in Shanghai was characterized by multiple point dissemination, wide coverage, a large number of close contacts of confirmed infections and asymptomatic carriers, and difficult source tracing. The lessons from Shanghai’s response to Omicron showed that the dynamic zero-COVID policy is still the most suitable response to the virus which can quickly find the infections and curb the transmission route.
Rabies is widely prevalent worldwide, and China is among the countries most affected. To achieve the goal of zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030, dog management and immunization must be improved and comprehensive prevention and control measures must be adopted. We analyze the epidemiological profile of rabies in China in the past 30 years to clarify the origins of China’s high prevalence, and propose a comprehensive rabies prevention and control concept based on “One Health” by drawing on successful international control efforts.Results: The Omicron variants had the characteristics of high insidiousness, rapid transmission, high infectivity, and short incubation period, which were consistent with the characteristics of outbreaks caused by Omicron in other regions in China and abroad. There were 568 978 asymptomatic infections in Shanghai from Feburary 26 to June 30, 2022, accounting for 90.73% of the SARS-CoV-2 infections in this outbreak wave. It’s significantly different from a total of 23 277 SARS-CoV-2 infections in China between March 31, 2020 and August 8, 2021, of which 41.97% of the cases were asymptomatic infections. Conclusions: Compared with previous outbreaks emerged in China, the Omicron outbreak in Shanghai was characterized by multiple point dissemination, wide coverage, a large number of close contacts of confirmed infections and asymptomatic carriers, and difficult source tracing. The lessons from Shanghai’s response to Omicron showed that the dynamic zero-COVID policy is still the most suitable response to the virus which can quickly find the infections and curb the transmission route.
2023,3,6, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.387693
Abstract:
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused a global pandemic of infectious disease characterized by significant morbidity, symptomatic manifestations, and severe outcomes. Vaccines have proven to be an effective means of impeding the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, and have been widely employed globally. Despite breakthroughs such as mRNA vaccine, intramuscular COVID-19 vaccine still faces numerous chanllenges, such as failure to completely avoid infections, high cost, and difficult transport conditions. The mucosa is the primary site through which SARS-CoV-2 invades the body and may induce effective immune responses. In the face of the increasing immune escape capacity of the Omicron variants and the potential outbreak of a new round of epidemics, it is imperative to develop a new generation of mucosal immune vaccines to prevent infection, which is mainly transmitted through the respiratory tract, along with its severe and fatal consequences. Probiotics have not only been used as safe raw materials for fermented foods but have also been developed as oral or nasal vaccine vectors for various pathogens in recent years, showing good mucosal and systemic immune effects in animals or humans. Although the antigen delivery technology based on protein anchoring on the surface of probiotics is rarely applied to COVID-19, probiotic-based vaccines aim at a new development direction for COVID-19 vaccines with low cost, high safety, and potential mucosal immune programs. In this review, we will discuss in detail the feasibility, advantages, and possible limitations of probiotics as a mucosal immune vaccine vector, which will be conducive to coping with the current situation of COVID-19.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused a global pandemic of infectious disease characterized by significant morbidity, symptomatic manifestations, and severe outcomes. Vaccines have proven to be an effective means of impeding the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, and have been widely employed globally. Despite breakthroughs such as mRNA vaccine, intramuscular COVID-19 vaccine still faces numerous chanllenges, such as failure to completely avoid infections, high cost, and difficult transport conditions. The mucosa is the primary site through which SARS-CoV-2 invades the body and may induce effective immune responses. In the face of the increasing immune escape capacity of the Omicron variants and the potential outbreak of a new round of epidemics, it is imperative to develop a new generation of mucosal immune vaccines to prevent infection, which is mainly transmitted through the respiratory tract, along with its severe and fatal consequences. Probiotics have not only been used as safe raw materials for fermented foods but have also been developed as oral or nasal vaccine vectors for various pathogens in recent years, showing good mucosal and systemic immune effects in animals or humans. Although the antigen delivery technology based on protein anchoring on the surface of probiotics is rarely applied to COVID-19, probiotic-based vaccines aim at a new development direction for COVID-19 vaccines with low cost, high safety, and potential mucosal immune programs. In this review, we will discuss in detail the feasibility, advantages, and possible limitations of probiotics as a mucosal immune vaccine vector, which will be conducive to coping with the current situation of COVID-19.
2023,3,7, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.374224
Abstract:
Objective: To assess the level of knowledge and practice on malaria prevention among the residents of Ratuwamai Municipality in Nepal. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out on Ratuwamai Municipality of Ward No. 8 in Morang District, Nepal. A total of 352 respondents with an age range from 15 to 70 years were interviewed from October 9 to October 31, 2022. Statistically significant differences between two or more categorical groups were measured using independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA test, and Kruskal-Wallis H test. Result: Out of the total sample, 57.7% of the respondents were 24 to 50 years old with a mean age of (36.9±14.3) years. In the knowledge test, 82% of the responses were accurate. Though 98.6% of people had heard of malaria, only 48.3% said it was a communicable disease. In practice, 84.9% always cleaned the surrounding area and trimmed the bushes around the house; 75.9% used insecticide-treated bed nets or normal bed nets for sleeping; only 7.4% used mosquito repellent creams on exposed body parts while staying outdoors at night, working in fields, and sleeping. Conclusions: The majority had knowledge about malaria, but more than half had poor practice. We advise concerned authorities to promote the behavior change communication strategy to encourage individuals to adopt healthy, beneficial, and good behavioral practices.
Objective: To assess the level of knowledge and practice on malaria prevention among the residents of Ratuwamai Municipality in Nepal. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out on Ratuwamai Municipality of Ward No. 8 in Morang District, Nepal. A total of 352 respondents with an age range from 15 to 70 years were interviewed from October 9 to October 31, 2022. Statistically significant differences between two or more categorical groups were measured using independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA test, and Kruskal-Wallis H test. Result: Out of the total sample, 57.7% of the respondents were 24 to 50 years old with a mean age of (36.9±14.3) years. In the knowledge test, 82% of the responses were accurate. Though 98.6% of people had heard of malaria, only 48.3% said it was a communicable disease. In practice, 84.9% always cleaned the surrounding area and trimmed the bushes around the house; 75.9% used insecticide-treated bed nets or normal bed nets for sleeping; only 7.4% used mosquito repellent creams on exposed body parts while staying outdoors at night, working in fields, and sleeping. Conclusions: The majority had knowledge about malaria, but more than half had poor practice. We advise concerned authorities to promote the behavior change communication strategy to encourage individuals to adopt healthy, beneficial, and good behavioral practices.
Hongrang Zhou, Xiaoling Wang, Guifu Li, Xiaoming Wang, Zhe Zhou, Wen Kong, Yinjun Pan, Xingxing Xu, Kaiyou Ye, Junfeng Pan, Ning Xiao
2022,2,8, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.362641
Abstract:
Objective: The study aimed to describe the characteristics and containment of the Omicron variants in Shanghai compared with the previous severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants in China. Methods: We summarized the data retrieved from the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission from January to June 2022 and the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China from March 2020 to August 2021. Epidemiological analysis was utilized to describe the differences among SARS-CoV-2 variants and the infection situation in the outbreaks in China. Results: The Omicron variants had the characteristics of high insidiousness, rapid transmission, high infectivity, and short incubation period, which were consistent with the characteristics of outbreaks caused by Omicron in other regions in China and abroad. There were 568 978 asymptomatic infections in Shanghai from Feburary 26 to June 30, 2022, accounting for 90.73% of the SARS-CoV-2 infections in this outbreak wave. It’s significantly different from a total of 23 277 SARS-CoV-2 infections in China between March 31, 2020 and August 8, 2021, of which 41.97% of the cases were asymptomatic infections. Conclusions: Compared with previous outbreaks emerged in China, the Omicron outbreak in Shanghai was characterized by multiple point dissemination, wide coverage, a large number of close contacts of confirmed infections and asymptomatic carriers, and difficult source tracing. The lessons from Shanghai’s response to Omicron showed that the dynamic zero-COVID policy is still the most suitable response to the virus which can quickly find the infections and curb the transmission route.
Objective: The study aimed to describe the characteristics and containment of the Omicron variants in Shanghai compared with the previous severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants in China. Methods: We summarized the data retrieved from the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission from January to June 2022 and the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China from March 2020 to August 2021. Epidemiological analysis was utilized to describe the differences among SARS-CoV-2 variants and the infection situation in the outbreaks in China. Results: The Omicron variants had the characteristics of high insidiousness, rapid transmission, high infectivity, and short incubation period, which were consistent with the characteristics of outbreaks caused by Omicron in other regions in China and abroad. There were 568 978 asymptomatic infections in Shanghai from Feburary 26 to June 30, 2022, accounting for 90.73% of the SARS-CoV-2 infections in this outbreak wave. It’s significantly different from a total of 23 277 SARS-CoV-2 infections in China between March 31, 2020 and August 8, 2021, of which 41.97% of the cases were asymptomatic infections. Conclusions: Compared with previous outbreaks emerged in China, the Omicron outbreak in Shanghai was characterized by multiple point dissemination, wide coverage, a large number of close contacts of confirmed infections and asymptomatic carriers, and difficult source tracing. The lessons from Shanghai’s response to Omicron showed that the dynamic zero-COVID policy is still the most suitable response to the virus which can quickly find the infections and curb the transmission route.
2022,2,9, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.343630
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Objective: To investigate the genetic mechanism and prevalence of antibiotic resistance among the practitioners of two bathing beaches in tropical China. Methods: Totally 259 strains were isolated from the rectal swabs of the practitioners and screened by MacConkey agar. A questionnaire survey was conducted. Kirby-Bauer test was used for phenotype, and double disc inhibition synergy test was used for extendedspectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E), which was further confirmed by VITEKII instrument. The genotype was detected by polymerase chain reaction, and the similarities of ESBL-E were analyzed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Results: The prevalence of ESBL-E was 13.1% (34/259), of which, CTX-M genes accounted for 44.1% (15/34), mainly CTX-M-14 and CTX-M-27. Moreover, 19.1% (4/21) of the isolates were homologous. The resistance phenotypes of ESBL-E to chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, ceftazidime, cefepime and gentamicin were different between two beaches(PCTX-M genes at the island beach, while a high prevalence of ESBL-E was found at the city beach and clone transfer occurred. Conclusions: ESBL-E-associated gentamicin antibiotic resistance risk may be greater for island beach practitioners. The city beach populations could face more potential risks owing to severe resistance and metastatic ability of ESBL-E. The environmental exposure mechanisms and transfer role of antibiotic resistance at public beaches with high density should be investigated.
Objective: To investigate the genetic mechanism and prevalence of antibiotic resistance among the practitioners of two bathing beaches in tropical China. Methods: Totally 259 strains were isolated from the rectal swabs of the practitioners and screened by MacConkey agar. A questionnaire survey was conducted. Kirby-Bauer test was used for phenotype, and double disc inhibition synergy test was used for extendedspectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E), which was further confirmed by VITEKII instrument. The genotype was detected by polymerase chain reaction, and the similarities of ESBL-E were analyzed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Results: The prevalence of ESBL-E was 13.1% (34/259), of which, CTX-M genes accounted for 44.1% (15/34), mainly CTX-M-14 and CTX-M-27. Moreover, 19.1% (4/21) of the isolates were homologous. The resistance phenotypes of ESBL-E to chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, ceftazidime, cefepime and gentamicin were different between two beaches(PCTX-M genes at the island beach, while a high prevalence of ESBL-E was found at the city beach and clone transfer occurred. Conclusions: ESBL-E-associated gentamicin antibiotic resistance risk may be greater for island beach practitioners. The city beach populations could face more potential risks owing to severe resistance and metastatic ability of ESBL-E. The environmental exposure mechanisms and transfer role of antibiotic resistance at public beaches with high density should be investigated.
Hongrang Zhou, Guifu Li, Xiaoming Wang, Zhe Zhou, Wen Kong, Jingfei Hu, Kaiyou Ye, Wenjiang Zhong, Xiaoling Wang, Ning Xiao
2023,3,10, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.374229
Abstract:
The COVID-19 vaccines provide a high degree of protection against severe disease, hospitalisation, and death. However, no vaccine claimed 100% effectiveness and it is expected that a small proportion of vaccinated individuals may develop a breakthrough infection due to individual differences, virus variants and other factors. We conducted an epidemiological investigation and analysis of an imported case who had finished four doses of vaccination, and in order to provide a relevant reference for regular epidemic prevention and control in the post-pandemic era.
The COVID-19 vaccines provide a high degree of protection against severe disease, hospitalisation, and death. However, no vaccine claimed 100% effectiveness and it is expected that a small proportion of vaccinated individuals may develop a breakthrough infection due to individual differences, virus variants and other factors. We conducted an epidemiological investigation and analysis of an imported case who had finished four doses of vaccination, and in order to provide a relevant reference for regular epidemic prevention and control in the post-pandemic era.
2023,3,11, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.371403
Abstract:
Objective: To determine the urinary tract infections (UTIs)-causing bacterial profile and antibiotic susceptibility pattern for the proper and complete treatment of UTIs in pregnant women with diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods: We collected 300 urine samples from diabetic and non-diabetic pregnant women at various gestational ages. After isolating and identifying uropathogens, we conducted an antibiotic sensitivity assay against fourteen commonly used antibiotics: amikacin, amoxicillin, ampicillin, azithromycin, cefixime, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, cefuroxime, ciprofloxacin, co-trimoxazole, gentamicin, levofloxacin, netilmicin, nitrofurantoin. Results: Among the participants, 70% had DM but only 37.3% had positive uropathogen growth. Five gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., Citrobacter spp., and Pseudomonas spp.) and 3 gram-positive bacteria (Streptococcus spp., Staphylococcus spp. and Enterococcus spp.) were indentified. Escherichia coli was the most prevalent bacteria (57.1%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (19.6%). In the antibiotic susceptibility assay, we found 96.5% of the isolated organisms were highly susceptible to levofloxacin, 94.2% to netilmicin, 88.2% to nitrofurantoin, 85.1% to amikacin, 79.8% to gentamicin, respectively. On the other hand, 64.8%, 63.6%, 61.8% of the isolates demonstrated high-level resistance to ampicillin, ceftazidime and amoxicillin whereas 38.0%, 37.1%, 33.6%, 30.9% and 30.0% of the organisms were resistant to co-trimoxazole, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, cefuroxime, cefixime, respectivey. Conclusions: Our results suggest that amikacin, levofloxacin, netilmicin, nitrofurantoin, and gentamycin can be used as first-line treatments for UTIs, whether the patient has DM or not. Contrarily, amoxicillin, ampicillin, ceftazidime, azithromycin, and co-trimoxazole should be avoided in treating UTIs.
Objective: To determine the urinary tract infections (UTIs)-causing bacterial profile and antibiotic susceptibility pattern for the proper and complete treatment of UTIs in pregnant women with diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods: We collected 300 urine samples from diabetic and non-diabetic pregnant women at various gestational ages. After isolating and identifying uropathogens, we conducted an antibiotic sensitivity assay against fourteen commonly used antibiotics: amikacin, amoxicillin, ampicillin, azithromycin, cefixime, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, cefuroxime, ciprofloxacin, co-trimoxazole, gentamicin, levofloxacin, netilmicin, nitrofurantoin. Results: Among the participants, 70% had DM but only 37.3% had positive uropathogen growth. Five gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., Citrobacter spp., and Pseudomonas spp.) and 3 gram-positive bacteria (Streptococcus spp., Staphylococcus spp. and Enterococcus spp.) were indentified. Escherichia coli was the most prevalent bacteria (57.1%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (19.6%). In the antibiotic susceptibility assay, we found 96.5% of the isolated organisms were highly susceptible to levofloxacin, 94.2% to netilmicin, 88.2% to nitrofurantoin, 85.1% to amikacin, 79.8% to gentamicin, respectively. On the other hand, 64.8%, 63.6%, 61.8% of the isolates demonstrated high-level resistance to ampicillin, ceftazidime and amoxicillin whereas 38.0%, 37.1%, 33.6%, 30.9% and 30.0% of the organisms were resistant to co-trimoxazole, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, cefuroxime, cefixime, respectivey. Conclusions: Our results suggest that amikacin, levofloxacin, netilmicin, nitrofurantoin, and gentamycin can be used as first-line treatments for UTIs, whether the patient has DM or not. Contrarily, amoxicillin, ampicillin, ceftazidime, azithromycin, and co-trimoxazole should be avoided in treating UTIs.
2022,2,12, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.345316
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Objective: To determine the prevalence of Helicobacter (H.) pylori infection among the population of east coast of Borneo and explore the relationship between demographic factors, ethnicity and risk of H. pylori infection. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 211 patients who underwent elective oesophagogastroduodenoscopy in 2017. Demographic data, endoscopic indications as well as the results of the mucosal biopsy were obtained and analysed from the endoscopy unit registry. Results: A total of 211 patients from 14 ethnic groups were enrolled in the study, most of were Chinese (28.4%), followed by Dusun (14.7%) and Songgai (13.7%). Overall, the period prevalence for 2017 was 44.5%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed an association between ethnicity and H. pylori. Bajau (adjusted odds ratio=5.612, P=0.005) and Dusun ethnic groups (adjusted odds ratio=7.359, P=0.001) were at a significantly higher risk of H. pylori infection compared to Chinese. However, the regression model only explained 11.6% (Cox & Snell Pseudo R2 ) of the prevalence of H. pylori infection. Conclusions: The period prevalence for 2017 was 44.5%, with certain indigenous ethnic groups having a higher risk than others. Clinicians should consider obtaining further history regarding the ethnic’s culture and dietary practice prior to starting H. pylori eradication therapy.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of Helicobacter (H.) pylori infection among the population of east coast of Borneo and explore the relationship between demographic factors, ethnicity and risk of H. pylori infection. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 211 patients who underwent elective oesophagogastroduodenoscopy in 2017. Demographic data, endoscopic indications as well as the results of the mucosal biopsy were obtained and analysed from the endoscopy unit registry. Results: A total of 211 patients from 14 ethnic groups were enrolled in the study, most of were Chinese (28.4%), followed by Dusun (14.7%) and Songgai (13.7%). Overall, the period prevalence for 2017 was 44.5%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed an association between ethnicity and H. pylori. Bajau (adjusted odds ratio=5.612, P=0.005) and Dusun ethnic groups (adjusted odds ratio=7.359, P=0.001) were at a significantly higher risk of H. pylori infection compared to Chinese. However, the regression model only explained 11.6% (Cox & Snell Pseudo R2 ) of the prevalence of H. pylori infection. Conclusions: The period prevalence for 2017 was 44.5%, with certain indigenous ethnic groups having a higher risk than others. Clinicians should consider obtaining further history regarding the ethnic’s culture and dietary practice prior to starting H. pylori eradication therapy.
2023,3,13, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.376722
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Objective: SARS-CoV-2 infection is an ongoing public health emergency of international significance. Considering that there is no specific drug and 100% effective vaccine yet, knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) toward COVID-19 are crucial to prevent and manage the pandemic. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude and practices toward COVID-19 prevention measures of graduate students at a university in northwestern Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted between September to December 2020. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and KAP of 407 randomly selected individuals. The data were exported to SPSS version 23.0, and bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used for analyses. Variables with P＜0.25 in the bivariate logistic regression analysis were retained into the multivariable logistic regression models. The values were considered to be statistically significant ( P≤0.05). The data quality control was tested by using 5% pretest. Results:Among 407 participants, 267 (65.6%) had sufficient knowledge, 239 (58.7%) had positive attitude and 189 (46.4%) had good practices toward COVID-19. Marital status (AOR 0.38; 95%CI 0.11-0.95; P=0.040) and student admission type (AOR 0.32; 95%CI 0.15-0.68; P=0.003) had a statistically significant association with knowledge of students. Residence (AOR 0.18; 95%CI 0.09- 0.34; P＜0.01) (AOR 0.16; 95%CI 0.07-0.36; P＜0.01), family size (AOR 0.45; 95%CI 0.23-0.87, P=0.017) (AOR 0.29; 95%CI 0.14-0.60; P=0.001), student admission type (AOR 0.11: 95%CI 0.04-0.29, P＜0.01) (AOR 0.01; 95%CI 0.00-0.05; P＜0.01) and monthly income (AOR 0.17; 95%CI 0.05-0.58; P=0.005) (AOR 0.08; 95%CI 0.02-0.32; P＜0.01) were significantly associated with positive attitude and good practices, respectively. Besides, good practices such as avoiding handshaking and physical distancing were performed in the least amount of participants. Conclusions: The scores of KAP among graduate students toward COVID-19 are low. It is recommended that university administrators reinforce proactive and effective measures to develop good knowledge, positive attitude, and better practices regarding COVID-19 for the students.
Objective: SARS-CoV-2 infection is an ongoing public health emergency of international significance. Considering that there is no specific drug and 100% effective vaccine yet, knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) toward COVID-19 are crucial to prevent and manage the pandemic. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude and practices toward COVID-19 prevention measures of graduate students at a university in northwestern Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted between September to December 2020. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and KAP of 407 randomly selected individuals. The data were exported to SPSS version 23.0, and bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used for analyses. Variables with P＜0.25 in the bivariate logistic regression analysis were retained into the multivariable logistic regression models. The values were considered to be statistically significant ( P≤0.05). The data quality control was tested by using 5% pretest. Results:Among 407 participants, 267 (65.6%) had sufficient knowledge, 239 (58.7%) had positive attitude and 189 (46.4%) had good practices toward COVID-19. Marital status (AOR 0.38; 95%CI 0.11-0.95; P=0.040) and student admission type (AOR 0.32; 95%CI 0.15-0.68; P=0.003) had a statistically significant association with knowledge of students. Residence (AOR 0.18; 95%CI 0.09- 0.34; P＜0.01) (AOR 0.16; 95%CI 0.07-0.36; P＜0.01), family size (AOR 0.45; 95%CI 0.23-0.87, P=0.017) (AOR 0.29; 95%CI 0.14-0.60; P=0.001), student admission type (AOR 0.11: 95%CI 0.04-0.29, P＜0.01) (AOR 0.01; 95%CI 0.00-0.05; P＜0.01) and monthly income (AOR 0.17; 95%CI 0.05-0.58; P=0.005) (AOR 0.08; 95%CI 0.02-0.32; P＜0.01) were significantly associated with positive attitude and good practices, respectively. Besides, good practices such as avoiding handshaking and physical distancing were performed in the least amount of participants. Conclusions: The scores of KAP among graduate students toward COVID-19 are low. It is recommended that university administrators reinforce proactive and effective measures to develop good knowledge, positive attitude, and better practices regarding COVID-19 for the students.
2022,2,14, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.348853
Abstract:
“One Health” perspective has now been upheld and advocated by many countries and international institutions such as the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and the World Organization for Animal Health, and the World Bank Groups. At present, 19 countries, 5 international institutions and 4 regional organizaitons are working jointly to promote “One Health” perspective, with two important development trends. First, it should be put into practice with legal support, government will, and cooperation among multiple disciplines and departments; second, it not only covers zoonotic diseases, food safety and antibiotic resistance, but has now been extended to address environmental pollution, biosecurity, public health risks at ports and other fields. Taking the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as an example, the world now is facing unprecedented challenges, urgently calling for an exploration into institutional innovation, agency innovation and means innovation from the perspective of “One health” so as to enhance the governance efficiency of public health management.
“One Health” perspective has now been upheld and advocated by many countries and international institutions such as the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and the World Organization for Animal Health, and the World Bank Groups. At present, 19 countries, 5 international institutions and 4 regional organizaitons are working jointly to promote “One Health” perspective, with two important development trends. First, it should be put into practice with legal support, government will, and cooperation among multiple disciplines and departments; second, it not only covers zoonotic diseases, food safety and antibiotic resistance, but has now been extended to address environmental pollution, biosecurity, public health risks at ports and other fields. Taking the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as an example, the world now is facing unprecedented challenges, urgently calling for an exploration into institutional innovation, agency innovation and means innovation from the perspective of “One health” so as to enhance the governance efficiency of public health management.
2022,2,15, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.347379
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2022,2,16, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.356847
Abstract:
Objective: To determine the occurrence of multidrug resistant bacteria from the indoor environment of female hostels in a tertiary institution in order to provide epidemiological data. Methods: The bacterial quality of the three female hostels was evaluated using the settle plate method, where Petri dishes containing different types of culture media were opened in the rooms. Isolated bacteria were identified using standard microbiological procedures. Using disc diffusion method, the antibiogram of the isolates was determined and based on this, the multiple antibiotics resistance index was also determined. Results: The total heterotrophic colony forming units（CFU) for Hall A ranged from 2.09 x102 to 1.73 x103 CFU/m3 while that of Hall B ranged from 4.71 x102 to 1.10 x103 CFU/m3 and a statistically significant difference between the counts of both halls was observed (P=0.04). Microorganisms isolated included Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Corynebacterium sp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Proteus mirabilis. All the isolates exhibited multidrug resistance to amoxycillin-clavulanic acid, cefuroxime and ceftriaxone. Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Corynebacterium sp. had the least multiple antibiotic resistance index with 0.2 while Staphylococcus aureus had the highest with 0.8. Conclusions: Female university hostels may become sources of exchange of microorganisms, especially in overcrowded rooms. A large percentage of isolates were multidrug resistant which could pose difficulty and increased cost of treatment of their resulting infections. Regular surveillance and control of the agents that encourage the growth of these bacteria present in indoor air is needed.
Objective: To determine the occurrence of multidrug resistant bacteria from the indoor environment of female hostels in a tertiary institution in order to provide epidemiological data. Methods: The bacterial quality of the three female hostels was evaluated using the settle plate method, where Petri dishes containing different types of culture media were opened in the rooms. Isolated bacteria were identified using standard microbiological procedures. Using disc diffusion method, the antibiogram of the isolates was determined and based on this, the multiple antibiotics resistance index was also determined. Results: The total heterotrophic colony forming units（CFU) for Hall A ranged from 2.09 x102 to 1.73 x103 CFU/m3 while that of Hall B ranged from 4.71 x102 to 1.10 x103 CFU/m3 and a statistically significant difference between the counts of both halls was observed (P=0.04). Microorganisms isolated included Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Corynebacterium sp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Proteus mirabilis. All the isolates exhibited multidrug resistance to amoxycillin-clavulanic acid, cefuroxime and ceftriaxone. Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Corynebacterium sp. had the least multiple antibiotic resistance index with 0.2 while Staphylococcus aureus had the highest with 0.8. Conclusions: Female university hostels may become sources of exchange of microorganisms, especially in overcrowded rooms. A large percentage of isolates were multidrug resistant which could pose difficulty and increased cost of treatment of their resulting infections. Regular surveillance and control of the agents that encourage the growth of these bacteria present in indoor air is needed.
2022,2,17, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.350691
Abstract:
Maiada Mahmoud Hashem Shams, Ebthal Mamdouh Hamdy, Karim Atia Mohamed, Mai Othman Qwaider, Belal El-Agha, Sarah Abd-Alhamed Elmatary
2022,2,18, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.356988
Abstract:
b>Objective: To investigate the antibiotic utilization and prescription patterns as well as define its convenience to the norm in four North- Sinai hospitals, Egypt. Antimicrobial resistance is a universal health threat. The golden era of miracle antibiotics has ended and we have faced the challenge of being troubled by infectious diseases with no discovery of new antibiotics found since 1987. Antibiotic pressure, overuse, and misuse are important risk factors for antimicrobial resistance and hospital cross-infection. To combat antimicrobial resistance, Egypt started its National Action Plan (2018-2022) aiming to optimize the usage and consumption of antibiotics. Method: This multicenter descriptive cross-sectional study was designed to describe the pattern of antibiotic prescription and consumption at four North Sinai Hospitals related to the Ministry of Health and Population. We reviewed 309 medical records of the inpatient department; the samples were selected through a stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected retrospectively from the medical records of the hospitalized patients in October, November, and December of 2020 by a paper-based method. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Result: The prevalence of antibiotic consumption is near 68.9% in the four hospitals indicating that two-thirds of admitted patients receive antibiotics. Approximately 52.1% administered antibiotics for no reason. Most of the admitted patients took antibiotics on the same day of admission, regardless of the different types of hospital departments. Furthermore, 98.7% of antibiotics were prescribed without culture or order for culture and microbiological tests. Broad-spectrum antibiotics were 90% of all antibiotics prescribed. A total of 18 types of antibiotics were prescribed, cefotaxime was the most commonly prescribed antibiotic representing 26.5%. Conclusion: Judicious antibiotic prescribing behavior slows down the nature of antibiotic resistance. To guarantee the best antimicrobial use in the hospitals, standard treatment guidelines, and the Essential Medicines List for infectious diseases should be carried out and revised at least every 2 years to be a clinical reference for clinicians. Continuous education and training of clinicians and healthcare workers can contribute to optimizing the rational use of antibiotics, which in return reduces the progress of antibiotic resistance. There is an urgent need for antibiotic stewardship and surveillance and their application in all hospitals.
b>Objective: To investigate the antibiotic utilization and prescription patterns as well as define its convenience to the norm in four North- Sinai hospitals, Egypt. Antimicrobial resistance is a universal health threat. The golden era of miracle antibiotics has ended and we have faced the challenge of being troubled by infectious diseases with no discovery of new antibiotics found since 1987. Antibiotic pressure, overuse, and misuse are important risk factors for antimicrobial resistance and hospital cross-infection. To combat antimicrobial resistance, Egypt started its National Action Plan (2018-2022) aiming to optimize the usage and consumption of antibiotics. Method: This multicenter descriptive cross-sectional study was designed to describe the pattern of antibiotic prescription and consumption at four North Sinai Hospitals related to the Ministry of Health and Population. We reviewed 309 medical records of the inpatient department; the samples were selected through a stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected retrospectively from the medical records of the hospitalized patients in October, November, and December of 2020 by a paper-based method. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Result: The prevalence of antibiotic consumption is near 68.9% in the four hospitals indicating that two-thirds of admitted patients receive antibiotics. Approximately 52.1% administered antibiotics for no reason. Most of the admitted patients took antibiotics on the same day of admission, regardless of the different types of hospital departments. Furthermore, 98.7% of antibiotics were prescribed without culture or order for culture and microbiological tests. Broad-spectrum antibiotics were 90% of all antibiotics prescribed. A total of 18 types of antibiotics were prescribed, cefotaxime was the most commonly prescribed antibiotic representing 26.5%. Conclusion: Judicious antibiotic prescribing behavior slows down the nature of antibiotic resistance. To guarantee the best antimicrobial use in the hospitals, standard treatment guidelines, and the Essential Medicines List for infectious diseases should be carried out and revised at least every 2 years to be a clinical reference for clinicians. Continuous education and training of clinicians and healthcare workers can contribute to optimizing the rational use of antibiotics, which in return reduces the progress of antibiotic resistance. There is an urgent need for antibiotic stewardship and surveillance and their application in all hospitals.
2022,2,19, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.362642
Abstract:
2022,2,20, DOI: 10.4103/2773-0344.346831
Abstract:
Objective: To review the characteristic of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks in mainland China, particularly post-Wuhan outbreaks, and to help design effective responses in the foreseeable future. Method: The data regarding COVID-19 outbreaks between December 2019 and March 16, 2022 were obtained from China’s publicly available databases. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Five outbreak stages were defined according to distinct epidemiological characteristics across different time periods over the past two years. Result: Since the 2020 Wuhan outbreak, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) local infections were confirmed in 37 995 cases as of March 16, 2022. We identified 285 isolated outbreaks in unrelated people that occurred in four additional distinct stages, over 57% of which had been imported, such as imported infected travelers and fomite transmission. The basic reproduction number (R0) of original SARS-CoV-2 was about 2.79, while the Delta variant was about 5.08 and Omicron was 7.0 or greater, resulting in the disease being more contagious during the fourth (Delta) and fifth (Omicron) stages than previous stages. Conclusion: China has experienced various COVID-19 outbreaks of different levels since the start of the pandemic in Wuhan, and local transmission is mainly caused by imported sources. If the “dynamic COVID-zero” policy is not appropriately followed, it will be difficult to contain the spread in China from overseas and to cope with the Omicron variant.
Objective: To review the characteristic of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks in mainland China, particularly post-Wuhan outbreaks, and to help design effective responses in the foreseeable future. Method: The data regarding COVID-19 outbreaks between December 2019 and March 16, 2022 were obtained from China’s publicly available databases. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Five outbreak stages were defined according to distinct epidemiological characteristics across different time periods over the past two years. Result: Since the 2020 Wuhan outbreak, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) local infections were confirmed in 37 995 cases as of March 16, 2022. We identified 285 isolated outbreaks in unrelated people that occurred in four additional distinct stages, over 57% of which had been imported, such as imported infected travelers and fomite transmission. The basic reproduction number (R0) of original SARS-CoV-2 was about 2.79, while the Delta variant was about 5.08 and Omicron was 7.0 or greater, resulting in the disease being more contagious during the fourth (Delta) and fifth (Omicron) stages than previous stages. Conclusion: China has experienced various COVID-19 outbreaks of different levels since the start of the pandemic in Wuhan, and local transmission is mainly caused by imported sources. If the “dynamic COVID-zero” policy is not appropriately followed, it will be difficult to contain the spread in China from overseas and to cope with the Omicron variant.
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