Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease

11 pages, 907 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genomic Sequencing Profiles of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Mandalay Region, Myanmar

by Aye Nyein Phyu, Si Thu Aung, Prasit Palittapongarnpim, Kyaw Ko Ko Htet, Surakameth Mahasirimongkol, Wuthiwat Ruangchai, Bharkbhoom Jaemsai, Htin Lin Aung, Htet Myat Win Maung, Angkana Chaiprasert, Petchawan Pungrassami and Virasakdi Chongsuvivatwong

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040239 - 21 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1819

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize whole-genome sequencing (WGS) information of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) in the Mandalay region of Myanmar. It was a cross-sectional study conducted with 151 Mtb isolates obtained from the fourth nationwide anti-tuberculosis (TB) drug-resistance survey. Frequency of lineages 1, 2, [...] Read more.

This study aimed to characterize whole-genome sequencing (WGS) information of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) in the Mandalay region of Myanmar. It was a cross-sectional study conducted with 151 Mtb isolates obtained from the fourth nationwide anti-tuberculosis (TB) drug-resistance survey. Frequency of lineages 1, 2, 3, and 4 were 55, 65, 9, and 22, respectively. The most common sublineage was L1.1.3.1 (n = 31). Respective multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) frequencies were 1, 1, 0, and 0. Four clusters of 3 (L2), 2 (L4), 2 (L1), and 2 (L2) isolates defined by a 20-single-nucleotide variant (SNV) cutoff were detected. Simpson’s index for sublineages was 0.0709. Such high diversity suggests that the area probably had imported Mtb from many geographical sources. Relatively few genetic clusters and MDR-TB suggest there is a chance the future control will succeed if it is carried out properly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Resistant Tuberculosis)

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14 pages, 4158 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Integrative Explainable Artificial Intelligence Approach to Analyze Fine-Scale Land-Cover and Land-Use Factors Associated with Spatial Distributions of Place of Residence of Reported Dengue Cases

by Hsiu Yang, Thi-Nhung Nguyen and Ting-Wu Chuang

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040238 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2171

Abstract

Dengue fever is a prevalent mosquito-borne disease that burdens communities in subtropical and tropical regions. Dengue transmission is ecologically complex; several environmental conditions are critical for the spatial and temporal distribution of dengue. Interannual variability and spatial distribution of dengue transmission are well-studied; [...] Read more.

Dengue fever is a prevalent mosquito-borne disease that burdens communities in subtropical and tropical regions. Dengue transmission is ecologically complex; several environmental conditions are critical for the spatial and temporal distribution of dengue. Interannual variability and spatial distribution of dengue transmission are well-studied; however, the effects of land cover and use are yet to be investigated. Therefore, we applied an explainable artificial intelligence (AI) approach to integrate the EXtreme Gradient Boosting and Shapley Additive Explanation (SHAP) methods to evaluate spatial patterns of the residences of reported dengue cases based on various fine-scale land-cover land-use types, Shannon’s diversity index, and household density in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, between 2014 and 2015. We found that the proportions of general roads and residential areas play essential roles in dengue case residences with nonlinear patterns. Agriculture-related features were negatively associated with dengue incidence. Additionally, Shannon’s diversity index showed a U-shaped relationship with dengue infection, and SHAP dependence plots showed different relationships between various land-use types and dengue incidence. Finally, landscape-based prediction maps were generated from the best-fit model and highlighted high-risk zones within the metropolitan region. The explainable AI approach delineated precise associations between spatial patterns of the residences of dengue cases and diverse land-use characteristics. This information is beneficial for resource allocation and control strategy modification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tracking Infectious Diseases)

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14 pages, 3093 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First Isolation and Genome Sequence Analysis of West Nile Virus in Mosquitoes in Brazil

by Joaquim Pinto Nunes Neto, Lúcia Aline Moura Reis, Maria Nazaré Oliveira Freitas, Bruna Laís Sena do Nascimento, Liliane Leal das Chagas, Hernan Hermes Monteiro da Costa, Jéssica Cecília Pinheiro Rodrigues, Camila Margalho Braga, Eliana Vieira Pinto da Silva, Sandro Patroca Silva and Lívia Caricio Martins

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040237 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1806

Abstract

West Nile virus is a flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes, mainly of the genus Culex. In Brazil, serological studies have already indicated the circulation of the virus since 2003, with the first human case detected in 2014. The objective of the present paper [...] Read more.

West Nile virus is a flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes, mainly of the genus Culex. In Brazil, serological studies have already indicated the circulation of the virus since 2003, with the first human case detected in 2014. The objective of the present paper is to report the first isolation of WNV in a Culex (Melanoconion) mosquito. Arthropods were collected by protected human attraction and CDC light bait, and taxonomically identified and analyzed by viral isolation, complement fixation and genomic sequencing tests. WNV was isolated from samples of Culex (Melanoconion) mosquitoes, and the sequencing analysis demonstrated that the isolated strain belonged to lineage 1a. The finding of the present study presents the first evidence of the isolation and genome sequencing of WNV in arthropods in Brazil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Topics in Arbovirus Vectors)

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24 pages, 314 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of the General Population toward the Old-New Outbreak of Cholera in a Developing Country

by Marwan Akel, Fouad Sakr, Chadia Haddad, Aline Hajj, Hala Sacre, Rony M. Zeenny, Jihan Safwan and Pascale Salameh

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040236 - 20 Apr 2023

Viewed by 2781

Abstract

Background: In October 2022, the first case of cholera since 1993 was recorded in Lebanon. This study aimed to develop and validate a tool to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward cholera infection and its prevention among the general population in [...] Read more.

Background: In October 2022, the first case of cholera since 1993 was recorded in Lebanon. This study aimed to develop and validate a tool to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward cholera infection and its prevention among the general population in Lebanon and identify the associated factors related to the KAP assessment to guide prevention and awareness strategies. The nation’s already precarious healthcare system might become overwhelmed by the response to the cholera outbreak. Therefore, evaluating the level of cholera-related KAP among the Lebanese population is crucial since it directly affects the disease’s treatment, control, and prevention. Methods: This online cross-sectional study was carried out between October and November 2022 during the cholera outbreak in Lebanon. Snowball sampling was used to recruit 448 adults living in Lebanon. Results: The suggested KAP scales had adequate structural and convergent validity and were internally consistent. The disease knowledge was inversely associated with the reluctance to receive educational information (β = −1.58) and cigarette smoking (β = −1.31) but positively associated with the female gender (β = 1.74) and awareness of vaccine availability and efficacy (β = 1.34). For attitude, healthcare professionals were less frightened than others (β = 2.69). Better practices were related to better knowledge (β = 0.43), while inadequate practices were associated with getting information from social media (β = −2.47). Conclusions: This study could identify notable gaps in the knowledge, attitudes, and practices, which varied according to participant characteristics. Cholera incidence can be reduced by improved community education and training, increased access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene amenities, and changes in behavior. These findings warrant additional actions by public health stakeholders and governmental authorities to promote better practices and curb disease transmission. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surveillance and Control of Foodborne and Waterborne Infections)

24 pages, 2550 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Synthesis of Qualitative Evidence on Malaria in Pregnancy, 2005–2022: A Systematic Review

by Jaiberth Antonio Cardona-Arias

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040235 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1902

Abstract

Qualitative research on malaria in pregnancy (MiP) is incipient, therefore its contextual, experiential and symbolic associated factors are unknown. This study systematizes the qualitative research on MiP, describes knowledge, perceptions and behaviors about MiP, and compiles individual, socioeconomic, cultural and health system determinants [...] Read more.

Qualitative research on malaria in pregnancy (MiP) is incipient, therefore its contextual, experiential and symbolic associated factors are unknown. This study systematizes the qualitative research on MiP, describes knowledge, perceptions and behaviors about MiP, and compiles individual, socioeconomic, cultural and health system determinants of MiP through a meta-synthesis in 10 databases. A total of 48 studies were included with 2600 pregnant women, 1300 healthcare workers, and 2200 relatives or community members. Extensive knowledge was demonstrated on ITN and case management, but it was lacking on SP-IPTp, risks and consequences of MiP. Attitudes were negative towards ANC and MiP prevention. There were high trustfulness scores and preference for traditional medicine and distrust in the safety of drugs. The main determinants of the Health System were rationing, copayments, delay in payment to clinics, high out-of-pocket expenses, shortage, low workforce and work overload, shortcomings in care quality, low knowledges of healthcare workers on MiP and negative attitude in care. The socioeconomic and cultural determinants were poverty and low educational level of pregnant women, distance to the hospital, patriarchal–sexist gender roles, and predominance of local conceptions on maternal–fetal–neonatal health. The meta-synthesis demonstrates the difficulty to detect MiP determinants and the importance of performed qualitative research before implementing MiP strategies to understand the multidimensionality of the disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Malaria Treatment and Prevention)

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8 pages, 1074 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Anti-Toxoplasma gondii and Anti-Neospora caninum Antibodies in Urban Traction Equids in Northeast Brazil: Seroprevalence and Risk Factors

by Paulo Wbiratan Lopes Costa, Clarisse Silva Menezes Oliveira, Roberto Alves Bezerra, Felipe Boniedj Ventura Alvares, Victor Hugo Alves Sousa Formiga, Marianne Rachel Domiciano Dantas Martins, Thais Ferreira Feitosa and Vinícius Longo Ribeiro Vilela

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040234 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1109

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies in equids that carry out traction work in Northeastern Brazil, and to establish the potential risk factors associated with seropositivity for these agents. Blood [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies in equids that carry out traction work in Northeastern Brazil, and to establish the potential risk factors associated with seropositivity for these agents. Blood samples were collected from 322 traction equids (horses, donkeys and mules) in urban areas of 16 municipalities in the State of Paraíba, Brazil. The samples were sent for serological diagnosis using the Immunofluorescence Antibody Test (IFAT). Epidemiological questionnaires were given to the owners to assess the possible risk factors associated with infections. It was observed that 13.7% (44/322, CI: 10.9–16.5) of the equids tested positive for anti-T. gondii antibodies and 5% (16/322, CI: 2.6–7.4) tested positive for anti-N. caninum antibodies. Conducting traction work for over four years was considered a risk factor associated with T. gondii infection (odds ratio: 6.050; CI: 4.38–8.54, p = 0.025). There were no risk factors associated with N. caninum infection. It was concluded that traction equids have a significant prevalence of anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies in urban areas in the State of Paraíba, with an identified risk factor for seropositivity for anti-T. gondii as conducting traction work for more than four years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Toxoplasma gondii Infection and Toxoplasmosis)

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14 pages, 3125 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Chagas Disease Maternal Seroprevalence and Maternal–Fetal Health Outcomes in a Parturition Cohort in Western El Salvador

by Mary K. Lynn, Marvin Stanley Rodriguez Aquino, Pamela Michelle Cornejo Rivas, Mufaro Kanyangarara, Stella C. W. Self, Berry A. Campbell and Melissa S. Nolan

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040233 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2173

Abstract

Congenital Chagas disease is a growing concern, prioritized by the World Health Organization for public health action. El Salvador is home to some of the highest Chagas disease (Trypanosoma cruzi infection) burdens in the Americas, yet pregnancy screening remains neglected. This pilot [...] Read more.

Congenital Chagas disease is a growing concern, prioritized by the World Health Organization for public health action. El Salvador is home to some of the highest Chagas disease (Trypanosoma cruzi infection) burdens in the Americas, yet pregnancy screening remains neglected. This pilot investigation performed a maternal T. cruzi surveillance study in Western El Salvador among women presenting for labor and delivery. From 198 consented and enrolled pregnant women, 6% were T. cruzi positive by serology or molecular diagnosis. Half of the infants born to T. cruzi-positive women were admitted to the NICU for neonatal complications. Geospatial statistical clustering of cases was noted in the municipality of Jujutla. Older women and those knowing an infected relative or close friend were significantly more likely to test positive for T. cruzi infection at the time of parturition. In closing, maternal T. cruzi infections were significantly higher than national HIV or syphilis maternal rates, creating an urgent need to add T. cruzi to mandatory pregnancy screening programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Chagas Disease Control)

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7 pages, 703 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Assessing the Burden of Dengue during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Mexico

by Agustin Lugo-Radillo, Oliver Mendoza-Cano, Xóchitl Trujillo, Miguel Huerta, Mónica Ríos-Silva, José Guzmán-Esquivel, Verónica Benites-Godínez, Jaime Alberto Bricio-Barrios, Eder Fernando Ríos-Bracamontes, Martha I. Cárdenas-Rojas, Yolitzy Cárdenas and Efrén Murillo-Zamora

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040232 - 19 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1421

Abstract

The transmission of the dengue virus in Mexico has historically been high, and its burden during the COVID-19 pandemic is currently not well understood. Our objective was to assess the burden of dengue-related disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) between 2020 and 2022. We conducted [...] Read more.

The transmission of the dengue virus in Mexico has historically been high, and its burden during the COVID-19 pandemic is currently not well understood. Our objective was to assess the burden of dengue-related disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) between 2020 and 2022. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of databases resulting from an epidemiological surveillance of vector-borne diseases and computed DALYs using the protocol of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2019. Our results showed that there were 218,807 incident cases of dengue during the study period, resulting in 951 deaths. The calculated DALYs (and their 95% confidence intervals) were 8121 (7897–8396), 4733 (4661–4820), and 8461 (8344–8605) in 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. The DALY rates (per 100,000) were 6.5 (6.3–6.6), 3.8 (3.7–3.9), and 6.7 (6.6–6.8), respectively. The rates for 2020 and 2022 were similar to the historical mean (6.4, p = 0.884), whereas the rate for 2021 was lower than the mean. Premature mortality (years of life lost, YLL) contributed to 91% of the total burden. Our findings suggest that dengue fever remained a significant cause of disease burden during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in terms of premature mortality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases)

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8 pages, 686 KiB

Open AccessConference Report

Proceedings of the 5th Asia Dengue Summit

by Nattachai Srisawat, Duane J. Gubler, Tikki Pangestu, Usa Thisyakorn, Zulkifli Ismail, Daniel Goh, Maria Rosario Capeding, Lulu Bravo, Sutee Yoksan, Terapong Tantawichien, Sri Rezeki Hadinegoro, Kamran Rafiq, Valentina Sanchez Picot and Eng Eong Ooi

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040231 - 19 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1735

Abstract

The 5th Asia Dengue Summit, themed “Roll Back Dengue”, was held in Singapore from 13 to 15 June 2022. The summit was co-convened by Asia Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA), Global Dengue and Aedes transmitted Diseases Consortium (GDAC), Southeast Asian Ministers of Education [...] Read more.

The 5th Asia Dengue Summit, themed “Roll Back Dengue”, was held in Singapore from 13 to 15 June 2022. The summit was co-convened by Asia Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA), Global Dengue and Aedes transmitted Diseases Consortium (GDAC), Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Tropical Medicine and Public Health Network (SEAMEO TROPMED), and the Fondation Mérieux (FMx). Dengue experts from academia and research and representatives from the Ministries of Health, Regional and Global World Health Organization (WHO), and International Vaccine Institute (IVI) participated in the three-day summit. With more than 270 speakers and delegates from over 14 countries, 12 symposiums, and 3 full days, the 5th ADS highlighted the growing threat of dengue, shared innovations and strategies for successful dengue control, and emphasized the need for multi-sectoral collaboration to control dengue. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Dengue)

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23 pages, 2000 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Potential of Surveillance Data for Dengue Risk Mapping: An Evaluation of Different Approaches in Cuba

by Waldemar Baldoquín Rodríguez, Mayelin Mirabal, Patrick Van der Stuyft, Tania Gómez Padrón, Viviana Fonseca, Rosa María Castillo, Sonia Monteagudo Díaz, Jan M. Baetens, Bernard De Baets, Maria Eugenia Toledo Romaní and Veerle Vanlerberghe

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040230 - 18 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1680

Abstract

To better guide dengue prevention and control efforts, the use of routinely collected data to develop risk maps is proposed. For this purpose, dengue experts identified indicators representative of entomological, epidemiological and demographic risks, hereafter called components, by using surveillance data aggregated at [...] Read more.

To better guide dengue prevention and control efforts, the use of routinely collected data to develop risk maps is proposed. For this purpose, dengue experts identified indicators representative of entomological, epidemiological and demographic risks, hereafter called components, by using surveillance data aggregated at the level of Consejos Populares (CPs) in two municipalities of Cuba (Santiago de Cuba and Cienfuegos) in the period of 2010–2015. Two vulnerability models (one with equally weighted components and one with data-derived weights using Principal Component Analysis), and three incidence-based risk models were built to construct risk maps. The correlation between the two vulnerability models was high (tau > 0.89). The single-component and multicomponent incidence-based models were also highly correlated (tau ≥ 0.9). However, the agreement between the vulnerability- and the incidence-based risk maps was below 0.6 in the setting with a prolonged history of dengue transmission. This may suggest that an incidence-based approach does not fully reflect the complexity of vulnerability for future transmission. The small difference between single- and multicomponent incidence maps indicates that in a setting with a narrow availability of data, simpler models can be used. Nevertheless, the generalized linear mixed multicomponent model provides information of covariate-adjusted and spatially smoothed relative risks of disease transmission, which can be important for the prospective evaluation of an intervention strategy. In conclusion, caution is needed when interpreting risk maps, as the results vary depending on the importance given to the components involved in disease transmission. The multicomponent vulnerability mapping needs to be prospectively validated based on an intervention trial targeting high-risk areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases and Public Health Challenges)

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9 pages, 766 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Spatial Owner-Dog Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. Antibodies in Oceanic Islands and Costal Mainland of Southern Brazil

by Aaronson Ramathan Freitas, Ruana Renostro Delai, Louise Bach Kmetiuk, Raquel Cuba Gaspar, Evelyn Cristine da Silva, Rafaella Martini, Leandro Meneguelli Biondo, Rogério Giuffrida, Ivan Roque de Barros Filho, Vamilton Alvares Santarém, Helio Langoni, Cláudia Turra Pimpão and Alexander Welker Biondo

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040229 - 18 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1992

Abstract

Leptospirosis has been described as a disease neglected worldwide. Affecting humans and animals, the disease is often related to poor environmental conditions such as lack of sanitation and presence of synanthropic rodents. Despite being considered as a One Health issue, no study has [...] Read more.

Leptospirosis has been described as a disease neglected worldwide. Affecting humans and animals, the disease is often related to poor environmental conditions such as lack of sanitation and presence of synanthropic rodents. Despite being considered as a One Health issue, no study has focused on comparing owner–dog seroprevalence between islands and seashore mainland. Accordingly, the present study assessed anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies by applying microscopic agglutination test (MAT) methods to Leptospira and assessing associated risk factors via univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis of owners and their dogs in islands and seashore mainland of southern Brazil. No anti-Leptospira spp. Seropositivity was found in 330 owner serum samples, while dogs presented an overall seroprevalence of 5.9%. All seropositive dogs reacted to serogroups of Leptospira interrogans, including 66.7% of Pyrogenes, 44.4% Canicola, 22.2% Icterohaemorrhagiae, 16.7% Australis; six reacted to more than one serogroup. No association was found among seropositivity and epidemiological variables, except that neighborhood dogs were less likely to be seropositive. Although no seropositivity was observed in owners, seropositivity in dogs had the potential to indicate such species as being sentinels for environmental exposure and potential human risk of infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Leptospirosis and One Health Approach: Current Status and Future Prospects)

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15 pages, 470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Barriers and Facilitators for Home Reconstruction for Prevention of Chagas Disease: An Interview Study in Rural Loja Province, Ecuador

by Benjamin R. Bates, Majo Carrasco-Tenezaca, Angela M. Mendez-Trivino, Luis E. Mendoza, Claudia Nieto-Sanchez, Esteban G. Baus and Mario J. Grijalva

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040228 - 18 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1673

Abstract

Background: Chagas disease (CD) is a tropical parasitic disease spread by triatomine bugs, which are bugs that tend to infest precarious housing in rural and impoverished areas. Reducing exposure to the bugs, and thus the parasite they can carry, is essential to preventing [...] Read more.

Background: Chagas disease (CD) is a tropical parasitic disease spread by triatomine bugs, which are bugs that tend to infest precarious housing in rural and impoverished areas. Reducing exposure to the bugs, and thus the parasite they can carry, is essential to preventing CD in these areas. One promising long-term sustainable solution is to reconstruct precarious houses. Implementing home reconstruction requires an understanding of how householders construct barriers and facilitators they might encounter when considering whether to rebuild their homes. Methods: To understand barriers and facilitators to home reconstruction, we performed in-depth qualitative interviews with 33 residents of Canton Calvas, Loja, Ecuador, a high-risk endemic region. Thematic analysis was used to identify these barriers and facilitators. Results: The thematic analysis identified three facilitators (project facilitators, social facilitators, and economic facilitators) and two major barriers (low personal economy and extensive deterioration of existing homes). Conclusions: The study findings provide important loci for assisting community members and for agents of change in home reconstruction projects to prevent CD. Specifically, the project and social facilitators suggest that collective community efforts (minga) are more likely to support home reconstruction intentions than individualist efforts, while the barriers suggest that addressing structural issues of economy and affordability are necessary. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Chagas Disease Control)

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15 pages, 657 KiB

Open AccessArticle

by Alvina Widhani, Sukamto Koesnoe, Suzy Maria, Annisa Layalia Widjanarko, Teguh Harjono Karjadi, Anshari Saifuddin Hasibuan, Evy Yunihastuti, Iris Rengganis and Samsuridjal Djauzi

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040227 - 18 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1651

Abstract

Patients with an autoimmune disease could be at higher risk of a poor outcome when contracting COVID-19 infection due to aberrant immune responses and use of immunosuppressant therapies for chronic autoimmune treatment. Here, we conducted a retrospective study to identify the factors related [...] Read more.

Patients with an autoimmune disease could be at higher risk of a poor outcome when contracting COVID-19 infection due to aberrant immune responses and use of immunosuppressant therapies for chronic autoimmune treatment. Here, we conducted a retrospective study to identify the factors related to severity, hospitalization, and mortality among patients with autoimmune diseases. We found 165 cases of patients with pre-existing autoimmune diseases who had contracted COVID-19 between March 2020 and September 2022. Data on demographical characteristics; autoimmune diagnosis and treatment; COVID-19 vaccination status; and time, severity, and outcome of COVID-19 infection were collected. Most of the subjects were female (93.3%) and autoimmune diagnoses included systemic lupus erythematosus (54.5%), Sjogren’s syndrome (33.5%), antiphospholipid syndrome (23%), vasculitis (5.5%), autoimmune thyroid disease (3.6%), rheumatoid arthritis (3.03%), and inflammatory bowel disease (3.03%) among other autoimmune diseases. There were four COVID-19-related deaths in this study. Factors associated with moderate to severe COVID-19 infection in patients with autoimmune diseases included not being vaccinated against COVID-19, taking a steroid of ≥10 mg prednisone-equivalent per day, and having a cardiovascular disease. Taking a steroid of ≥10 mg prednisone-equivalent per day was also associated with hospitalization in the event of COVID-19 infection, while cardiovascular diseases also showed a significant correlation to mortality in patients with autoimmune diseases who had been hospitalized with COVID-19 infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19: Current Situation and Future Trends)

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10 pages, 728 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predominance of Multidrug Resistant Escherichia coli of Environmental Phylotype in Different Environments of Dhaka, Bangladesh

by Anindita Bhowmik, SM Tanjil Shah, Sharmistha Goswami, Ahmad Salman Sirajee and Sunjukta Ahsan

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040226 - 17 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1840

Abstract

Considering the ecological diversity of E. coli, the main aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, phylogroup diversity, and antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli isolated from 383 different clinical and environmental sources. In total, varied prevalence was observed of the [...] Read more.

Considering the ecological diversity of E. coli, the main aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, phylogroup diversity, and antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli isolated from 383 different clinical and environmental sources. In total, varied prevalence was observed of the 197 confirmed E. coli that were isolated (human–100%, animal–67.5%, prawn–49.23%, soil–30.58%, and water–27.88%). Of these isolates, 70 (36%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR). MDR E. coli was significantly associated with their sources (χ² = 29.853, p = 0.001). Humans (51.67%) and animals (51.85%) carried more MDR E. coli than other environments. The eae gene indicative of recent fecal contamination was not detected in any isolate, indicating that these E. coli isolates could be present in these environments for a long time and became naturalized. Phylogroup B1 (48.22%) was the predominant group, being present in all hosts analyzed and with the commensal E. coli group A (26.9%) representing the second predominant group. According to chi-square analysis, phylogroup B1 was significantly associated with E. coli from humans (p = 0.024), soil (p < 0.001) and prawn samples (p < 0.001). Human samples were significantly associated with phylogroup B1 (p = 0.024), D (p < 0.001), and F (p = 0.016) of E. coli strains, whereas phylogroup A (p < 0.001), C (p < 0.001), and E (p = 0.015) were associated with animal samples. Correspondence analysis results also indicated the association of these phylogroups with their hosts/sources. The findings of this study exhibited a non-random distribution of phylogenetic groups, though the diversity index was highest for human E. coli phylogroups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)

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10 pages, 1394 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detection of the Xanthi Chryso-like Virus in New Geographical Area and a Novel Arthropod Carrier

by Marko Jankovic, Valentina Cirkovic, Gorana Stamenkovic, Ana Loncar, Marija Todorovic, Maja Stanojevic and Marina Siljic

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040225 - 13 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1404

Abstract

Here, we report on a serendipitous finding of a chryso-like virus associated with Culex pipiens mosquitos in the course of study aimed to detect and characterize West Nile virus (WNV) circulating in mosquitos in Serbia, Southern Europe. Upon initial detection of unexpected product [...] Read more.

Here, we report on a serendipitous finding of a chryso-like virus associated with Culex pipiens mosquitos in the course of study aimed to detect and characterize West Nile virus (WNV) circulating in mosquitos in Serbia, Southern Europe. Upon initial detection of unexpected product in a PCR protocol for partial WNV NS5 gene amplification, further confirmation and identification was obtained through additional PCR and Sanger sequencing experiments. Bioinformatic and phylogenetic analysis identified the obtained sequences as Xanthi chryso-like virus (XCLV). The finding is particular for the fact that it associates XCLV with a new potential vector species and documents a novel geographical area of its distribution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Topics in Arbovirus Vectors)

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16 pages, 1938 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceSystematic Review

Trends in ELISA-Based Flavivirus IgG Serosurveys: A Systematic Review

by Fatima Ericka S. Vista, Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco, Micah D. Dispo, Danna Mae S. Opiso, Christian Luke D. C. Badua, John Patrick Z. Gerardo, Juan Raphael M. Perez, Karol Ann T. Baldo, Day-Yu Chao and Leslie Michelle M. Dalmacio

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040224 - 13 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2363

Abstract

Flaviviruses include virus species that are major public health threats worldwide. To determine the immunity landscape of these viruses, seroprevalence studies are often performed using IgG ELISA, which is a simple and rapid alternative to the virus neutralization test. In this review, we [...] Read more.

Flaviviruses include virus species that are major public health threats worldwide. To determine the immunity landscape of these viruses, seroprevalence studies are often performed using IgG ELISA, which is a simple and rapid alternative to the virus neutralization test. In this review, we aim to describe the trends in flavivirus IgG ELISA-based serosurveys. A systematic literature review using six databases was performed to collate cohort and cross-sectional studies performed on the general population. A total of 204 studies were included in this review. The results show that most studies were performed on dengue virus (DENV), whereas Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) was the least studied. For geographic distribution, serosurveys followed known disease prevalence. Temporally, the number of serosurveys increased after outbreaks and epidemics except for JEV, for which studies were performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns. Commercial kits were more commonly used than in-house assays for DENV, West Nile Virus (WNV), and Zika virus (ZIKV). Overall, most studies employed an indirect ELISA format, and the choice of antigens varied per virus. This review shows that flavivirus epidemiology is related to the regional and temporal distribution of serosurveys. It also highlights that endemicity, cross-reactivities, and kit availabilities affect assay choice in serosurveys. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases)

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8 pages, 945 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

A Rare Case of Imported Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania infantum in the Republic of Korea, 2021

by Hyun Jung Kim, Eun Jin Kim, Jee Woong Choi, You Chan Kim, Hee-Il Lee and Hyun-Il Shin

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040223 - 12 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1413

Abstract

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease and an infectious disease transmitted by sandflies that occurs worldwide. In the absence of physicians seeking to identify the causes of disease in non-endemic areas, appropriate diagnoses cannot be made, thereby hampering effective treatment. In this report, [...] Read more.

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease and an infectious disease transmitted by sandflies that occurs worldwide. In the absence of physicians seeking to identify the causes of disease in non-endemic areas, appropriate diagnoses cannot be made, thereby hampering effective treatment. In this report, we examined a nodular lesion on a patient’s chin by performing a biopsy and molecular analysis. The biopsy finding led to the identification of a Leishmania amastigote. On the basis of PCR analysis of the internal transcribed spacer 1 gene and 5.8 S ribosomal RNA with a subsequent BLAST search, we identified the causal organism as Leishmania infantum. The patient, who had visited Spain from 1 July to 31 August 2018, was accordingly diagnosed with cutaneous leishmaniasis and was administered liposomal amphotericin B, which successfully treated the skin lesion. Travel history plays an important role in the diagnosis of leishmaniasis, and physicians should bear in mind that travelers can also introduce diseases and pathogens to non-endemic areas. Identification of Leishmania at the species level will increase the efficacy of treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs): Early Detection and Treatment towards Rational Control)

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3 pages, 184 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Perakanya et al. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Opisthorchis viverrini Infection in Sakon Nakhon Province, Thailand. Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2022, 7, 313

by Pariyakorn Perakanya, Ratchadaporn Ungcharoen, Sutthiporn Worrabannakorn, Passakorn Ongarj, Atchara Artchayasawat, Thidarut Boonmars and Parichart Boueroy

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040222 - 11 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 687

Abstract

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...] Full article

10 pages, 1039 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Spatial Autocorrelation Method for Taenia solium Risk Mapping: The Case of Lao PDR

by Andrew Larkins, Mieghan Bruce and Amanda Ash

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040221 - 10 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2001

Abstract

Background: The World Health Organization has identified Taenia solium mapping tools as an important development for intensifying control in hyperendemic areas. Taenia solium has also been identified as a priority by the Lao PDR government. There is a limited understanding of the distribution [...] Read more.

Background: The World Health Organization has identified Taenia solium mapping tools as an important development for intensifying control in hyperendemic areas. Taenia solium has also been identified as a priority by the Lao PDR government. There is a limited understanding of the distribution of T. solium due to inherent diagnostic challenges. Method: Global and local autocorrelation statistics were applied to available risk factor data sourced from national censuses to map the risk of Taenia solium in Lao PDR. Results: Approximately 50% of villages could be considered hot spots for one or more risk factors. Different risk factor hot spots co-occurred in 30% of villages. Twenty per cent of villages were classified as hot spots for the proportion of households owning pigs and another risk factor. Northern Lao PDR was the dominant high-risk area. This is consistent with passive reports, limited surveys, and anecdotal reports. One smaller area in southern Lao PDR was also identified as high-risk. This is of particular interest because T. solium has not previously been investigated in this area. Conclusions: The methods applied provide a simple, rapid, and versatile approach that allows endemic countries to begin mapping the risk of T. solium at a sub-national level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neglected and Emerging Tropical Diseases)

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8 pages, 694 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Seroepidemiological Survey of Anti-Toxoplasma gondii and Anti-Neospora caninum Antibodies in Domestic Cats (Felis catus) in Rolim de Moura, State of Rondônia, North Brazil

by Ana Luzia Peixoto Silva, Estefany Ferreira Lima, Geraldo Moreira Silva Filho, Larissa Claudino Ferreira, Beatriz de Andrade Campos, Ividy Bison, Arthur Willian de Lima Brasil, Roberta Nunes Parentoni, Thais Ferreira Feitosa and Vinícius Longo Ribeiro Vilela

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040220 - 10 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1257

Abstract

Epidemiological studies on infections by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in cats in the North Region of Brazil are scarce. We intended to assess the seroprevalence in cats of anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies, as well as the associated risk [...] Read more.

Epidemiological studies on infections by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in cats in the North Region of Brazil are scarce. We intended to assess the seroprevalence in cats of anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies, as well as the associated risk factors that may lead them to contract these infections in Rolim de Moura, state of Rondônia, North Brazil. For this, blood serum samples of 100 cats from different regions of the city were evaluated. To assess possible factors associated with infections, epidemiological questionnaires were applied to tutors. The Immunofluorescence Antibody Test (IFAT) was performed for anti-T. gondii (cutoff 1:16) and anti-N. caninum (cutoff 1:50) antibodies. After identifying the positive samples, antibody titration was performed. The results showed the prevalence of 26% (26/100) of anti-T. gondii antibodies, with titration varying between 1:16 to 1:8192. There were no factors associated with the prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in the multivariate analysis in this study. There was no occurrence of seropositive cats for anti-N. caninum. It was concluded that there was a high prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in cats in Rolim de Moura, state of Rondônia, North Brazil. However, the evaluated animals did not present anti-N. caninum antibodies. Therefore, knowing that T. gondii has different transmission forms, we emphasize the importance of spreading more information to the population about cat’s relevance in the T. gondii life cycle and how to avoid the parasite transmission and proliferation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Toxoplasma gondii Infection and Toxoplasmosis)

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13 pages, 3799 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Epidemiologic Transition in French Guiana: Secular Trends and Setbacks, and Comparisons with Continental France and South American Countries

by Mathieu Nacher, Célia Basurko, Maylis Douine, Yann Lambert, Najeh Hcini, Narcisse Elenga, Paul Le Turnier, Loïc Epelboin, Félix Djossou, Pierre Couppié, Bertrand de Toffol, Kinan Drak Alsibai, Nadia Sabbah and Antoine Adenis

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 219; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040219 - 08 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1518

Abstract

There are great variations between population subgroups, notably in poorer countries, leading to substantial inconsistencies with those predicted by the classical epidemiologic transition theory. In this context, using public data, we aimed to determine how the singular case of French Guiana fit and [...] Read more.

There are great variations between population subgroups, notably in poorer countries, leading to substantial inconsistencies with those predicted by the classical epidemiologic transition theory. In this context, using public data, we aimed to determine how the singular case of French Guiana fit and transitioned in the epidemiologic transition framework. The data show a gradual decline in infant mortality to values above 8 per 1000 live births. Premature mortality rates were greater but declined more rapidly in French Guiana than in mainland France until 2017 when they reascended in a context of political turmoil followed by the COVID-19 pandemic and strong reluctance to get vaccinated. Although infections were a more frequent cause of death in French Guiana, there is a marked decline and circulatory and metabolic causes are major causes of premature death. Fertility rates remain high (>3 live births per woman), and the age structure of the population is still pyramid-shaped. The singularities of French Guiana (rich country, universal health system, widespread poverty) explain why its transition does not fit neatly within the usual stages of transition. Beyond gradual improvements in secular trends, the data also suggest that political turmoil and fake news may have detrimentally affected mortality in French Guiana and reversed improving trends. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)

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8 pages, 607 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hepatitis B Prevalence among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Brazil

by Ana Rita C. Motta-Castro, Lígia Kerr, Carl Kendall, Rosa S. Mota, Mark Drew C. Guimarães, Andréa Fachel Leal, Edgar Merchan-Hamann, Inês Dourado, Maria Amélia Veras, Ana Maria de Brito, Alexandre Kerr Pontes, Raimunda Hermelinda M. Macena, Daniela Knauth, Luana N. G. C. Lima, Socorro Cavalcante, Ximena P. Díaz-Bermúdez, Lisangela C. Oliveira, Laio Magno, Ana Cláudia Camillo, Marcílio F. Lemos, Vanessa Cristina M. Silva, Adriana P. Compri and Regina Célia Moreira Show full author list Hide full author list

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040218 - 06 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4264

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a global public health problem and requires specific prevention actions, particularly focusing on the key populations, such as men who have sex with men (MSM). We aimed at assessing the prevalence of HBV infection, among MSM, in a [...] Read more.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a global public health problem and requires specific prevention actions, particularly focusing on the key populations, such as men who have sex with men (MSM). We aimed at assessing the prevalence of HBV infection, among MSM, in a multicity study in Brazil. In 2016, we conducted a survey using a respondent-driven sampling methodology in 12 Brazilian cities. Rapid tests (RT) were performed on 3178 samples from those MSM. Positive results were tested for HBV DNA and sequenced. If negative for HBV DNA, samples were tested for serological markers. The prevalence rate of HBV exposure and clearance was 10.1% (95% CI: 8.1–12.6), and 1.1% (95%; CI: 0.6–2.1) were confirmed to be HBsAg-positive. Of those samples tested for anti-HBs (n = 1033), only 74.4% presented a serological profile analogous to that elicited by hepatitis B vaccination. Among HBsAg-positive samples (n = 29), 72.4% were HBV DNA-positive, and from these, 18 were sequenced. HBV genotypes A, F, and G were found in 55.5%, 38.9%, and 5.6%, respectively. This study indicates high prevalence rates of MSM HBV exposure and a low positivity index for the serological marker of HBV vaccine immunity. These findings may contribute to the discussion of strategies to prevent hepatitis B and reinforce the importance of promoting HBV vaccination in this key population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viral Hepatitis: Current Status and Future Perspective)

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13 pages, 3660 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vector Competence of Culex quinquefasciatus from Brazil for West Nile Virus

by Lúcia Aline Moura Reis, Eliana Vieira Pinto da Silva, Daniel Damous Dias, Maria Nazaré Oliveira Freitas, Rossela Damasceno Caldeira, Pedro Arthur da Silva Araújo, Fábio Silva da Silva, José Wilson Rosa Junior, Roberto Carlos Feitosa Brandão, Bruna Laís Sena do Nascimento, Lívia Caricio Martins and Joaquim Pinto Nunes Neto

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040217 - 06 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1837

Abstract

West Nile virus is characterized as a neurotropic pathogen, which can cause West Nile fever and is transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Culex. In 2018, the Instituto Evandro Chagas performed the first isolation of a WNV strain in Brazil from a [...] Read more.

West Nile virus is characterized as a neurotropic pathogen, which can cause West Nile fever and is transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Culex. In 2018, the Instituto Evandro Chagas performed the first isolation of a WNV strain in Brazil from a horse brain sample. The present study aimed to evaluate the susceptibility of orally infected Cx. quinquefasciatus from the Amazon region of Brazil to become infected and transmit the WNV strain isolated in 2018. Oral infection was performed with blood meal artificially infected with WNV, followed by analysis of infection, dissemination, and transmission rates, as well as viral titers of body, head, and saliva samples. At the 21st dpi, the infection rate was 100%, the dissemination rate was 80%, and the transmission rate was 77%. These results indicate that Cx. quinquefasciatus is susceptible to oral infection by the Brazilian strain of WNV and may act as a possible vector of the virus since it was detected in saliva from the 21st dpi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Topics in Arbovirus Vectors)

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12 pages, 2101 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluating COVID-19-Related Disruptions to Effective Malaria Case Management in 2020–2021 and Its Potential Effects on Malaria Burden in Sub-Saharan Africa

by Paulina A. Dzianach, Susan F. Rumisha, Jailos Lubinda, Adam Saddler, Mauricio van den Berg, Yalemzewod A. Gelaw, Joseph R. Harris, Annie J. Browne, Francesca Sanna, Jennifer A. Rozier, Beatriz Galatas, Laura F. Anderson, Camilo A. Vargas-Ruiz, Ewan Cameron, Peter W. Gething and Daniel J. Weiss

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040216 - 04 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1608

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to far-reaching disruptions to health systems, including preventative and curative services for malaria. The aim of this study was to estimate the magnitude of disruptions in malaria case management in sub-Saharan Africa and their impact on malaria burden [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to far-reaching disruptions to health systems, including preventative and curative services for malaria. The aim of this study was to estimate the magnitude of disruptions in malaria case management in sub-Saharan Africa and their impact on malaria burden during the COVID-19 pandemic. We used survey data collected by the World Health Organization, in which individual country stakeholders reported on the extent of disruptions to malaria diagnosis and treatment. The relative disruption values were then applied to estimates of antimalarial treatment rates and used as inputs to an established spatiotemporal Bayesian geostatistical framework to generate annual malaria burden estimates with case management disruptions. This enabled an estimation of the additional malaria burden attributable to pandemic-related impacts on treatment rates in 2020 and 2021. Our analysis found that disruptions in access to antimalarial treatment in sub-Saharan Africa likely resulted in approximately 5.9 (4.4–7.2 95% CI) million more malaria cases and 76 (20–132) thousand additional deaths in the 2020–2021 period within the study region, equivalent to approximately 1.2% (0.3–2.1 95% CI) greater clinical incidence of malaria and 8.1% (2.1–14.1 95% CI) greater malaria mortality than expected in the absence of the disruptions to malaria case management. The available evidence suggests that access to antimalarials was disrupted to a significant degree and should be considered an area of focus to avoid further escalations in malaria morbidity and mortality. The results from this analysis were used to estimate cases and deaths in the World Malaria Report 2022 during the pandemic years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harnessing the Power of Data and Technology to Improve Infectious Disease Control)

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23 pages, 5252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Species Simulation of Mosquito Disease Vector Development in Temperate Australian Tidal Wetlands Using Publicly Available Data

by Kerry Staples, Steven Richardson, Peter J. Neville and Jacques Oosthuizen

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040215 - 03 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1490

Abstract

Worldwide, mosquito monitoring and control programs consume large amounts of resources in the effort to minimise mosquito-borne disease incidence. On-site larval monitoring is highly effective but time consuming. A number of mechanistic models of mosquito development have been developed to reduce the reliance [...] Read more.

Worldwide, mosquito monitoring and control programs consume large amounts of resources in the effort to minimise mosquito-borne disease incidence. On-site larval monitoring is highly effective but time consuming. A number of mechanistic models of mosquito development have been developed to reduce the reliance on larval monitoring, but none for Ross River virus, the most commonly occurring mosquito-borne disease in Australia. This research modifies existing mechanistic models for malaria vectors and applies it to a wetland field site in Southwest, Western Australia. Environmental monitoring data were applied to an enzyme kinetic model of larval mosquito development to simulate timing of adult emergence and relative population abundance of three mosquito vectors of the Ross River virus for the period of 2018–2020. The model results were compared with field measured adult mosquitoes trapped using carbon dioxide light traps. The model showed different patterns of emergence for the three mosquito species, capturing inter-seasonal and inter-year variation, and correlated well with field adult trapping data. The model provides a useful tool to investigate the effects of different weather and environmental variables on larval and adult mosquito development and can be used to investigate the possible effects of changes to short-term and long-term sea level and climate changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Mathematical Models of Mosquito-Borne Diseases)

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16 pages, 3303 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Clinical Diagnosis of Chikungunya Infection: An Essential Aid in a Primary Care Setting Where Serological Confirmation Is Not Available

by Juan C. Rueda, Ingris Peláez-Ballestas, Jose-Ignacio Angarita, Ana M. Santos, Carlos Pinzon, Eugenia-Lucia Saldarriaga, Jorge M. Rueda, Elias Forero, Diego L. Saaibi, Paula X. Pavía, Marta Juliana Mantilla, Gustavo Rodríguez-Salas, Juan Camilo Santacruz, Igor Rueda, Mario H. Cardiel and John Londono

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040213 - 03 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2594

Abstract

Background: Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) diagnosis has become a challenge for primary care physicians in areas where the Zika virus and/or Dengue virus are present. Case definitions for the three arboviral infections overlap. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was carried out. A bivariate analysis was [...] Read more.

Background: Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) diagnosis has become a challenge for primary care physicians in areas where the Zika virus and/or Dengue virus are present. Case definitions for the three arboviral infections overlap. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was carried out. A bivariate analysis was made using confirmed CHIKV infection as the outcome. Variables with significant statistical association were included in an agreement consensus. Agreed variables were analyzed in a multiple regression model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was calculated to determine a cut-off value and performance. Results: 295 patients with confirmed CHIKV infection were included. A screening tool was created using symmetric arthritis (4 points), fatigue (3 points), rash (2 points), and ankle joint pain (1 point). The ROC curve identified a cut-off value, and a score ≥ 5.5 was considered positive for identifying CHIKV patients with a sensibility of 64.4% and a specificity of 87.4%, positive predictive value of 85.5%, negative predictive value of 67.7%, area under the curve of 0.72, and an accuracy of 75%. Conclusion: We developed a screening tool for CHIKV diagnosis using only clinical symptoms as well as proposed an algorithm to aid the primary care physician. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Response Strategies for Emerging Infectious Diseases)

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13 pages, 277 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Scaling Up TB Screening and TB Preventive Treatment Globally: Key Actions and Healthcare Service Costs

by Srinath Satyanarayana, Carel Pretorius, Avinash Kanchar, Ines Garcia Baena, Saskia Den Boon, Cecily Miller, Matteo Zignol, Tereza Kasaeva and Dennis Falzon

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040214 - 01 Apr 2023

Viewed by 2195

Abstract

The 2018 United Nations High-Level Meeting on Tuberculosis (UNHLM) set targets for case detection and TB preventive treatment (TPT) by 2022. However, by the start of 2022, about 13.7 million TB patients still needed to be detected and treated, and 21.8 million household [...] Read more.

The 2018 United Nations High-Level Meeting on Tuberculosis (UNHLM) set targets for case detection and TB preventive treatment (TPT) by 2022. However, by the start of 2022, about 13.7 million TB patients still needed to be detected and treated, and 21.8 million household contacts needed to be given TPT globally. To inform future target setting, we examined how the 2018 UNHLM targets could have been achieved using WHO-recommended interventions for TB detection and TPT in 33 high-TB burden countries in the final year of the period covered by the UNHLM targets. We used OneHealth-TIME model outputs combined with the unit cost of interventions to derive the total costs of health services. Our model estimated that, in order to achieve UNHLM targets, >45 million people attending health facilities with symptoms would have needed to be evaluated for TB. An additional 23.1 million people with HIV, 19.4 million household TB contacts, and 303 million individuals from high-risk groups would have required systematic screening for TB. The estimated total costs amounted to ~USD 6.7 billion, of which ~15% was required for passive case finding, ~10% for screening people with HIV, ~4% for screening household contacts, ~65% for screening other risk groups, and ~6% for providing TPT to household contacts. Significant mobilization of additional domestic and international investments in TB healthcare services will be needed to reach such targets in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ending Tuberculosis Epidemic: Current Status and Future Prospects)

11 pages, 855 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Google Trends to Estimate the Geographic Distribution of Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis in the United States from 2016 to 2021

by Steven H. Adams, Timothy P. Endy and David A. Larsen

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040212 - 01 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1695

Abstract

Soil-transmitted helminth infections are assumed to be uncommon in the US, despite numerous studies in the past few decades showing high burdens in Appalachia and the southern states. We assessed trends of interest in the Google search engine to gauge spatiotemporal patterns of [...] Read more.

Soil-transmitted helminth infections are assumed to be uncommon in the US, despite numerous studies in the past few decades showing high burdens in Appalachia and the southern states. We assessed trends of interest in the Google search engine to gauge spatiotemporal patterns of potential soil-transmitted helminth transmission. We conducted a further ecological study comparing Google search trends to risk factors for soil-transmitted helminth transmission. Google search trends for terms related to soil-transmitted helminths were clustered in Appalachia and the south, with seasonal surges suggestive of endemic transmission for hookworm, roundworm (Ascaris), and threadworm. Furthermore, lower access to plumbing, increased septic tank use, and more rural environments were associated with increased soil-transmitted helminth-related Google search terms. Together, these results suggest that soil-transmitted helminthiasis remains endemic in parts of Appalachia and the south. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diagnosis, Epidemiology and Control on Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) Infections - Volume II)

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10 pages, 2394 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Wastewater Surveillance Can Function as an Early Warning System for COVID-19 in Low-Incidence Settings

by Mohamad Assoum, Colleen L. Lau, Phong K. Thai, Warish Ahmed, Jochen F. Mueller, Kevin V. Thomas, Phil Min Choi, Greg Jackson and Linda A. Selvey

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040211 - 31 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1798

Abstract

Introduction: During the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, Australia implemented a series of international and interstate border restrictions. The state of Queensland experienced limited COVID-19 transmission and relied on lockdowns to stem any emerging COVID-19 outbreaks. However, early detection of new [...] Read more.

Introduction: During the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, Australia implemented a series of international and interstate border restrictions. The state of Queensland experienced limited COVID-19 transmission and relied on lockdowns to stem any emerging COVID-19 outbreaks. However, early detection of new outbreaks was difficult. In this paper, we describe the wastewater surveillance program for SARS-CoV-2 in Queensland, Australia, and report two case studies in which we aimed to assess the potential for this program to provide early warning of new community transmission of COVID-19. Both case studies involved clusters of localised transmission, one originating in a Brisbane suburb (Brisbane Inner West) in July–August 2021, and the other originating in Cairns, North Queensland in February–March 2021. Materials and Methods: Publicly available COVID-19 case data derived from the notifiable conditions (NoCs) registry from the Queensland Health data portal were cleaned and merged spatially with the wastewater surveillance data using statistical area 2 (SA2) codes. The positive predictive value and negative predictive value of wastewater detection for predicting the presence of COVID-19 reported cases were calculated for the two case study sites. Results: Early warnings for local transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through wastewater surveillance were noted in both the Brisbane Inner West cluster and the Cairns cluster. The positive predictive value of wastewater detection for the presence of notified cases of COVID-19 in Brisbane Inner West and Cairns were 71.4% and 50%, respectively. The negative predictive value for Brisbane Inner West and Cairns were 94.7% and 100%, respectively. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the utility of wastewater surveillance as an early warning tool in low COVID-19 transmission settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics for Infectious Diseases Investigation and Control)

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11 pages, 1525 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium vivax Field Isolates from the Thai–Myanmar Border during the Period of 2006–2016

by Abdifatah Abdullahi Jalei, Wanna Chaijaroenkul and Kesara Na-Bangchang

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(4), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8040210 - 31 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1634

Abstract

High levels of genetic variants of Plasmodium vivax have previously been reported in Thailand. Circumsporozoite surface protein (CSP), merozoite surface protein (MSP), and microsatellite markers were used to determine the genetic polymorphisms of P. vivax. This study aimed to investigate the molecular [...] Read more.

High levels of genetic variants of Plasmodium vivax have previously been reported in Thailand. Circumsporozoite surface protein (CSP), merozoite surface protein (MSP), and microsatellite markers were used to determine the genetic polymorphisms of P. vivax. This study aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology of P. vivax populations at the Thai–Myanmar border by genotyping the PvCSP, PvMSP-3α, and PvMSP-3β genes. Four hundred and forty P. vivax clinical isolates were collected from the Mae Sot and Sai Yok districts from 2006–2007 and 2014–2016. Polymerase chain reaction with restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) was used to investigate the genetic polymorphisms of the target genes. Based on PCR band size variations, 14 different PvCSP alleles were identified: eight for VK210 and six for VK247. The VK210 genotype was the dominant variant during both sample collection periods. Based on PCR genotyping, three distinct types (A, B, and C) for both PvMSP-3α and PvMSP-3β were observed. Following RFLP, 28 and 14 allelic variants of PvMSP-3α and 36 and 20 allelic variants of PvMSP-3β with varying frequencies were identified during the first and second periods, respectively. High genetic variants of PvMSP-3 and PvCSP were found in the study area. PvMSP-3β exhibited a higher level of genetic diversity and multiple-genotype infection versus PvMSP-3α. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vector-Borne Diseases)

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