Common Co-infection Research Articles

Prevalence and genotype distribution of high-risk Human Papillomavirus infection among Vietnamese women in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam: A population-based cross-sectional study

IntroductionPersistent infection with high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HR-HPV) genotypes are wellknown to increase the risk of cervical cancer significantly. This study aims to determine the prevalence and distribution of high-risk HR-HPV genotypes among women in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Viet Nam. MethodsA population-based cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2020 and September 2020 in all 24 districts of HCMC, Viet Nam. Socio-demographic and behavioral data were collected from 2478 women aged 25 to 65 who had sexual intercourse using a self-administered questionnaire. Vaginal swab specimens from all participants were collected to identify HR-HPV genotypes using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) protocols. ResultsThe prevalence of HR-HPV infection was 3.5 % (87 women, including 20 cases infected with multi-genotypes), 3.1 % in urban and 0.4 % in rural areas. The most detected HR-HPV genotypes among positive cases were 58 (25.3 %), 52 (21.8 %), 16 (21.8 %), 68 (10.3 %), 51 (10.34 %) and 18 (9.2 %). The prevalence of multi-type HR-HPV genotypes was 0.81 %, of which the most common co-infection genotypes were 52 and 58 (20.0 %), 16 and 56 (10.0 %), and 16 and 39 (10.0 %). The percentages of one-, two-, three-, and four-genotypes of HPV among positive cases were 77.0 %, 16.1 %, 4.6 % and 2.3 %, respectively. ConclusionsOur findings explore a low prevalence of HR-HPV infection in Vietnamese women, of which genotypes 52 and 58 are more popular than 16 and 18. Continuously updated data on the genotype distribution of HPV are helpful for vaccine development and planning preventive activities to prevent HPV-related cancers.

Molecular and microscopic detection of haemoprotozoan diseases in dogs from Haryana, India.

Haemoparasitic infections are frequently observed in dogs from tropical regions, including India. The present investigation combined microscopic blood smear examination and PCR assays to assess the occurrence of canine tick-borne diseases (CTBD) from suspected dogs in and around Hisar, Haryana. Using the Giemsa-stained peripheral thin blood smear examination, 15 (12.5%) of the 120 dogs were infected with CTBD, with 5.8%, 3.3%, 2.5%, and 0.8% dogs testing positive for Hepatozoon canis, Ehrlichia canis, Babesia vogeli, and Babesia gibsoni, respectively. Using the PCR assay, CTBD was found to be 64.16% (77/120) in examined dogs. Of the 77 PCR-positive canines, 56 were infected with a single haemoparasite, while 21 were infected with two or more species. H. canis was the most abundant tick-borne pathogen, representing 35%, followed by E. canis 25.8%, B. vogeli 20%, and B. gibsoni 2.5%. The most common co-infection was with H. canis along with E. canis (7.5%). The PCR assay was proven to be more efficient for detecting haemoparasites in dogs compared to blood smear examinations. The study suggests that canine tick-borne diseases are common in Haryana and recommends using PCR-based molecular tests in addition to conventional microscopic examination to diagnose these infections for effective treatment and management of infected canines.

Incidence of Chlamydia spp., FIV, FeLV in Free-Roaming Cats in Slovakia.

Free-roaming cats represent a potential reservoir of infectious diseases. The most common co-infections of free-roaming cats include mixed viral, bacterial, fungal, yeast and parasitic infections. This study focuses on the occurrence of Chlamydia spp. feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and their co-infections. The diseases accompanied by immune suppression, such as FIV, create favourable conditions for the onset of other diseases and co-infections. The result of co-infection may be a higher susceptibility for other pathogens, as well as the occurrence of more severe clinical symptoms. The study involved 168 (113♀ and 55♂) free-roaming adult cats during the years 2021-2022. All cats belonged to Slovak citizens with permanent residence in the Slovak Republic. Blood samples and swabs (Invasive EUROTUBO® Collection sterile swab, Deltalab O8191 Rubí, Spain) from the conjunctival sac were taken from 168 cats to be later tested by PCR and ELISA methods. Statistical analysis was also performed. The overall prevalence of Chlamydia spp. was 17.26%, of FIV 15.48%, and 5.95% of FeLV. The most significant finding in our study was 3.57% co-infection of FIV and Chlamydia spp. in tested cats. The observed prevalence of Chlamydia spp. FIV and FeLV indicates that the presence of these pathogens in populations of free-roaming cats is endemic.

Associated factors of respiratory co-infection of COVID-19 and the impact of co-infection on SARS-CoV-2 viral load.

Emerging evidence indicates that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infected individuals are at an increased risk for co-infections. This retrospective study aims to expand the knowledge of associated factors of respiratory co-infection in SARS-CoV-2 positivity. A retrospective study was conducted to recruit fifty-five patients with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 positivity. We additionally tested 29 other respiratory pathogens using RT-PCR assay for the same specimens tested for laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2. Both univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to identify independent factors for co-infection. Cox regression was conducted to detect the association between co-infection and viral load after controlling other related factors. Among all the fifty-five COVID-19 patients, the rate of co-infection with at least one other respiratory pathogen was 76.4% (42/55). The rate of bacterial co-infections was 83.3% (35/42), among which Streptococcus pneumonia was the most common co-infection. Over 70% of neutrophils proportion (OR: 4.563; 95% CI: 1.116-18.648) was an independently associated factor for bacterial co-infection, whereas fever (OR: 4.506; 95% CI: 1.044-19.441) and chest tightness (OR: 0.106; 95% CI: 0.015-0.743) for viral co-infection. The strongest promotion of SARS-CoV-2 viral decreasing load was detected from co-infection of only viruses (HR: 4.039; 95% CI: 1.238-13.177), and the weakest was found from co-infection of only bacteria (HR: 2.909; 95% CI: 1.308-6.472). Various co-infections variously promote SARS-CoV-2 viral decreasing load. Timely identification of co-infections aggressively contributes to COVID-19 patient management.

A Novel Electrochemical Method to Detect HIV in Saliva

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a global epidemic that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) with time. Approximately 14% (one in seven) of HIV-infected people do not know their HIV status till 2022 [1]. These people have a higher chance of spreading HIV without knowing its consequences. So, there is an unmet need for more HIV testing techniques to isolate and identify all HIV-infected people as soon as after their infection. Till now, there are no available techniques to detect HIV in saliva due to HIV’s low concentrations and the inhibition properties of saliva. We developed a nickel-based electrochemical method to detect HIV in saliva for the first time. This method does not require any biorecognition element for the detection, thus making it label-free. The difference in current responses during the chronoamperometry helps to distinguish HIV from saliva. It happens due to the blocking of the formation of NiOOH in the presence of HIV on the nickel surface. This method has high sensitivity and exhibits a linear current trend with increasing concentrations of HIV culture fluid. Also, it has a lower detection limit of around 50 copies/mL and a high selectivity of HIV over Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), which is the most common co-infection for HIV patients. Also, the most common route to transmit EBV is through saliva. So, this novel method will create a new opportunity for the commercialization of non-invasive HIV testing techniques that minimize the spreading rate of HIV by fastening HIV testing.[1] “Global HIV & AIDS statistics — Fact sheet.” Accessed: Nov. 26, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/fact-sheet

Prevalence and Clinical Impact of Viral and Bacterial Coinfections in Hospitalized Children and Adolescents Aged under 18 Years with COVID-19 during the Omicron Wave in Russia.

The COVID-19 pandemic has altered respiratory infection patterns in pediatric populations. The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant and relaxation of public health measures have increased the likelihood of coinfections. Previous studies show conflicting results regarding the impact of viral and bacterial coinfections with SARS-CoV-2 on severity of pediatric disease. This study investigated the prevalence and clinical impact of coinfections among children hospitalized with COVID-19 during the Omicron wave. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 574 hospitalized patients aged under 18 years in Russia, from January 2022 to March 2023. Samples from patients were tested for SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory pathogens using qRT-PCR, bacterial culture tests and mass spectrometry, and ELISA. Approximately one-third of COVID-19 cases had coinfections, with viral and bacterial coinfections occurring at similar rates. Adenovirus and Staphylococcus aureus were the most common viral and bacterial coinfections, respectively. Viral coinfections were associated with higher fevers and increased bronchitis, while bacterial coinfections correlated with longer duration of illness and higher pneumonia rates. Non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory viruses were linked to more severe lower respiratory tract complications than SARS-CoV-2 monoinfection. These findings suggest that during the Omicron wave, seasonal respiratory viruses may have posed a greater threat to children's health than SARS-CoV-2.

Coinfection of viruses in children with community-acquired pneumonia

BackgroundVirus, particularly respiratory tract virus infection is likely to co-occur in children with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Study focusing on the association between common viruses coinfection and children with CAP is rare. We aimed to study the association between seven common viruses coinfection and clinical/laboratory indexes in children with CAP.MethodsSix hundred and eighty-four CAP cases from our hospital were enrolled retrospectively. Seven common viruses, including influenza A (FluA), influenza B (FluB), human parainfluenza virus (HPIV), Esptein-Barr virus (EBV), coxsackie virus (CoxsV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes simplex virus (HSV) were investigated for their associations with CAP. We analyzed the differences of hospitalization days, white blood cell (WBC), c-reactive protein (CRP), platelet (PLT), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), procalcitonin (PCT), urine red blood cell (uRBC), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Scr), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK) and creatine kinase isoenzyme (CKMB) among different viruses coinfection groups by using one-way ANOVA analysis. The differences of clinical/laboratory indexes between ordinary and severe pneumonia groups, as well as non-virus vs multi co-infection viruses groups, and single vs multi co-infection viruses groups by using independent samples T test. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were applied to test the the predictive value of the clinical/laboratory parameters for the risk of viruses coinfections among CAP. Binary logistic analysis was performed to test the association between various indexes and viruses co-infection.ResultsEighty-four multiple viruses coinfections yielded different prognosis compared with that in 220 single virus coinfection. CMV coinfection was associated with longest hospitalization days, highest ALT, AST and CKMB level. HSV coinfection was associated with highest WBC count, CRP, ESR, and BUN. EBV coinfection was associated with highest PLT and PCT level. FluB coinfection was associated with highest Scr level. CoxsV coinfection was associated with highest uRBC, LDH and CK level. ROC curve analyses showed that CK had the largest area under the curve (AUC: 0.672, p < 10–4) for the risk of viruses coinfections risk in CAP. Significant association between PLT, uRBC, BUN, CK, and CKMB and virus coinfection risk in CAP was observed.ConclusionsMultiple viruses coinfections indicated different prognosis. Different viruses coinfection yielded varying degrees of effects on the cardiac, liver, kidney and inflamatory injury in CAP. The alterations of clinical/laboratory parameters, particularly CK may be associated with the risk of viruses coinfections in CAP.

Combination of compound screening with an animal model identifies pentamidine to prevent Chlamydia trachomatis infection

Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) is the most common cause for bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide with a tremendous impact on public health. With the aim to unravel novel targets of the chlamydia life cycle, we screen a compound library and identify 28 agents to significantly reduce Ct growth. The known anti-infective agent pentamidine-one of the top candidates of the screen-shows anti-chlamydia activity in low concentrations by changing the metabolism of host cells impairing chlamydia growth. Furthermore, it effectively decreases the Ct burden upon local or systemic application in mice. Pentamidine also inhibits the growth of Neisseria gonorrhea (Ng), which is a common co-infection of Ct. The conducted compound screen is powerful in exploring antimicrobial compounds against Ct in a medium-throughput format. Following thorough invitro and invivo assessments, pentamidine emerges as a promising agent for topical prophylaxis or treatment against Ct and possibly other bacterial STIs.

Modulation of innate immunity related genes resulting in prophylactic antimicrobial and antiviral properties

BackgroundThe innate immunity acts during the early phases of infection and its failure in response to a multilayer network of co-infections is cause of immune system dysregulation. Epidemiological SARS-CoV-2 infections data, show that Influenza Virus (FLU-A-B-C) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are co-habiting those respiratory traits. These viruses, especially in children (mostly affected by ‘multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children’ [MIS-C] and the winter pandemic FLU), in the aged population, and in ‘fragile’ patients are causing alteration in immune response. Then, bacterial and fungal pathogens are also co-habiting the upper respiratory traits (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans), thus contributing to morbidity in those COVID-19 affected patients.MethodsLiquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry using the quadrupole orbital ion trap analyser (i.e., UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS) was adopted to measure the polyphenols content of a new nutraceutical formula (Solution-3). Viral infections with SARS-CoV-2 (EG.5), FLU-A and RSV-A viruses (as performed in BLS3 authorised laboratory) and real time RT-PCR (qPCR) assay were used to test the antiviral action of the nutraceutical formula. Dilution susceptibility tests have been used to estimate the minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration (MIC and MBC, respectively) of Solution-3 on a variety of microorganisms belonging to Gram positive/ negative bacteria and fungi. Transcriptomic data analyses and functional genomics (i.e., RNAseq and data mining), coupled to qPCR and ELISA assays have been used to investigate the mechanisms of action of the nutraceutical formula on those processes involved in innate immune response.ResultsHere, we have tested the combination of natural products containing higher amounts of polyphenols (i.e., propolis, Verbascum thapsus L., and Thymus vulgaris L.), together with the inorganic long chain polyphosphates ‘polyPs’ with antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal behaviours, against SARS-CoV-2, FLU-A, RSV-A, Gram positive/ negative bacteria and fungi (i.e., Candida albicans). These components synergistically exert an immunomodulatory action by enhancing those processes involved in innate immune response (e.g., cytokines: IFNγ, TNFα, IL-10, IL-6/12; chemokines: CXCL1; antimicrobial peptides: HBD-2, LL-37; complement system: C3).ConclusionThe prophylactic antimicrobial success of this nutraceutical formula against SARS-CoV-2, FLU-A and RSV-A viruses, together with the common bacteria and fungi co-infections as present in human oral cavity, is expected to be valuable.

Risk factors associated with sepsis in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and febrile neutropenia

Background Children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), especially those with febrile neutropenia, are susceptible to sepsis. Several factors have been associated with the occurrence of sepsis in children with leukemia. Objective To identify potential risk factors associated with sepsis in children with ALL and febrile neutropenia. Methods This cross-sectional study was done in children with ALL who sought treatment at Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia from January 2019 to March 2022. We recorded patients’ gender, age, nutritional status, absolute neutrophil count (ANC), co-infection, prophylactic antibiotic use, and phase of chemotherapy. Results Of 131 subjects, 57.3% were male and 42.8% were wasted. Subjects had a median age of six years old and median ANC of 230 cells/mm3. Furthermore, 48.9% of subjects had co-infections, 87.8% had not received prophylactic antibiotics, and 48.9% were in the induction phase of chemotherapy. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that older age [OR 1.16 (95%CI 1.04 to 1.29); ?=0.149; P=0.008] and co-infection [OR 12.9 (95%CI 5.01 to 33.21); ?=2.551; P&lt;0.001] were significantly associated with sepsis in children with ALL and febrile neutropenia. Bronchopneumonia was the most common co-infection (72.5%). Conclusion Older age and co-infection are significantly associated with sepsis in children with ALL and febrile neutropenia.

First Report of Porcine Parvovirus 2 (PPV2) in Pigs from Colombia Associated with Porcine Reproductive Failure (PRF) and Porcine Respiratory Disease Complex (PRDC)

Pigs are affected by various parvoviruses (PPVs); eight have been reported to date (PPV1–PPV8). Porcine parvovirus 1 is considered a primary agent of porcine reproductive failure (PRF), while it is unknown whether other PPVs impact porcine health. Recently, the presence of PPV2 has been confirmed in the lung, either as a single agent or in the form of coinfection with other respiratory; therefore, it has been proposed as a potential participant in the porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC). In the present study, the presence of PPV2 alone and coinfection with other viruses (PCV2, PCV3, and PRRSV) was evaluated in lung samples obtained from pigs with respiratory signs (respiratory group: RG) (n = 146) and stillborn lungs (stillborn group: SG) (n = 19) from 82 farms in the five regions with the highest swine production in Colombia. The overall PPV2 prevalence was 37.6% (62/165), with the highest proportion mainly detected in grow-finisher pigs (62.5%), while its herd prevalence was 51.2% (42/82). The most prevalent virus was PRRSV in both groups, while PPV2 alone was found only in the RG group. The most common dual coinfection in the RG and SG was PCV2/PRRSV (17.8% and 10.5%), while the most frequent coinfections involving PPV2 in the RG were PPV2/PCV2 (7.5%) and PPV2/PRRSV (4%) and PPV2/PCV2 (5.3%) in the SG. The most common triple coinfection was PPV2/PCV2/PRRSV at 15% in the RG and 21% in the SG, while quadruple coinfection PVV2/PCV2/PCV3/PRRSV was detected only in the RG (5.5%). Histopathological evaluation of 21 PPV2-positive lungs showed variable degrees of histiocytic or lymphohistiocytic interstitial pneumonia (9%) in the RG, while no significant changes were observed in SG; in addition, neutrophilic bronchopneumonia was observed in 73.7% if cases evaluated. In situ hybridization-RNAScope® confirmed the presence of PPV2 within pulmonary lesions in 2/19 RG pigs, while no in situ detection was observed in the SG pigs. The phylogenetic evaluation of seven PPV2 sequences detected in Colombia was compared with another 102 reported sequences, indicating that the Colombian strains are located in clade 2. Our results confirm the presence of PPV2 in pigs with PRDC alone and pigs coinfected with PCV2, PCV3, and PRRSV. Likewise, its presence alone or in coinfection in stillbirths suggests that PPV2 is also involved in PRF.

Advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) does not affect ability to utilize lymphadenopathy in assessment of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome in HIV and tuberculosis: Prospective comparative study

RegiSCAR validation criteria for drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) includes lymphadenopathy, a frequent feature of both tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). TB is the most common HIV-associated coinfection. Advanced HIV is associated with lymph node (LN) fibrosis. It is not clear if this negatively affects case validation in HIV-associated DRESS. To answer this question, we designed a prospective descriptive study to assess lymphadenopathy in various combinations of comorbid HIV, TB, and DRESS. We sought to describe the prevalence of DRESS-associated lymphadenopathy and characterize LN quality, size, and distribution in a high HIV-TB burden setting over time. We prospectively and systematically examined LN in 25 consecutive acute DRESS cases hospitalized at a South African tertiary-care center and 10 hospitalized non-DRESS HIV-TB coinfected controls. Fourteen (56%) of 25 patients were HIV infected, with a median (interquartile range) CD4 count of 254 (66-478) cells/mm³, and 7 of 14 were coinfected with TB. Using RegiSCAR criteria, 12 (46%) of 25 were definite DRESS cases, 8(31%) of 25 probable, and 5 (23%) of 25 possible. Possible cases were excluded in the analysis. Fifteen (75%) of 20 subjects had LN in ≥2 anatomic sites, including all 7 patients with HIV-TB coinfection. In contrast, 1 (20%) of 5 hospitalized non-DRESS HIV-TB coinfected controls had LN. Cervical LN, in 15 (88%) of 17, was most common, followed by axillary (76%) and inguinal (59%). Cervical LN ranged between 1 and 2 cm in size. Among the 8 (32%) of 25 subjects with follow-up data, LN had regressed in all within 6 weeks of stopping the offending drug and initiating TB treatment. There was no correlation with CD4 cell count and LN. Lymphadenopathy is a common feature of acute DRESS, even among HIV-TB-coinfected patients with advanced immunosuppression.

Clinical and Etiological Findings of Viral Pneumonia: A Single Centre Prospective Study

Introduction: Viral pneumonia is a prominent cause of illness that can occur in all age group throughout the year. Worldwide about 200 million cases of viral community acquired pneumonia occur every year of which 50% cases in children and 50% in adults [1]. Bacterial coinfection found only in 3% of cases [2]. The aim of our study is to find out most common viral pathogen causing pneumonia, most common bacterial co-infection, their typical clinical presentation, common abnormal lab parameters, CT findings, duration of ICU and hospital stay. Materials and Methods: All cases with sign and symptoms of respiratory infections with confirmed diagnosis of viral pneumonia (confirmed by BioFire FilmArray Pneumonia Panel from lower respiratory tract sample, confirmed by microscopy) were included in the study after proper consent. Demographic data, clinical history, laboratory investigations, all routine and radiological investigations are noted and evaluated. Results: Of the total 69 cases Influenza A virus (36%) is the predominant etiological agents followed by human rhinovirus (26%) in these cases. Human Rhinovirus predominate in the early part 2023 but towards end of this year Influenza A virus became the predominant cause for pneumonia. Patients of all age groups are affected but there is definitively a seasonal variation with more in the winter months. Most of the patients have typical respiratory findings like cough (83%) and fever (76%). CT scan showed bilateral ground glass opacity (56%) in most cases, and few had consolidation (29%) features. Blood CRP level (91%) was raised in most of these patients. Haemophilus Influenzae (34%) is the most common associated bacterial co-infection followed by Streptococcus Pneumoniae (26%). All patients responded well to conservative management. Conclusions: Viral pneumonia is not uncommon in the community. Though we found Influenza A followed by Human Rhinovirus are the two most common pathogens in these cases but only 59% of them have bacterial co-infection, so not all patients require antibiotics from the beginning. As most are infected with Haemophilus influenzae so aminopenicillin group is the antibiotics of choice for these patients. Hence as a pulmonologist we must be aware of these cases, their typical presentation and not to over treat these cases with high end antibiotics as most require only symptomatic treatment. Even though it is a single centre study, but it definitely throws a light on the pattern of viral pneumonia in our community

Incidence of Helminthic and Viral Coinfections in Malaria Patients in the Tertiary Care Hospital Setup.

This study determines the incidence of common viral and helminth coinfections with malaria in the tertiary care hospital set up in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The multidimensional research included malaria patients admitted to different hospitals of district Kohat during January and December 2021. Stool samples and blood were assembled from the patients. Giemsa-stained microscopy-positive samples were processed by the immunochromatography technique (ICT) to identify Plasmodium species. Common viral infections such as viral hepatitis (A, B, and C), HIV, and dengue (DENV) were analyzed by ICT kits while SARS-CoV-2 was confirmed through real-time PCR. Furthermore, the intestinal helminths were identified using the Kato-Katz thick smear method. Among 1278 patients, 548 were diagnosed with malaria, 412 (75.2%) were positive for P. vivax infection, 115 (21%) for P. falciparum, and 21 (3.8%) for mixed malaria infection (P. vivax/P. falciparum), with a higher incidence among males (65.2%) than females (34.8%). Coinfection with helminths was positive in 215 (39.3%) malaria patients. The most common infections were caused by the Ascaris lumbricoides species (42.6%) followed by Enterobius vermicularis (31.7%) and hookworm. A total of 24.6% of malaria-positive cases were also coinfected with different viruses with higher frequencies of confection for HAV (8.2%) and DENV (6.2%), respectively. The patients revealed higher incidence of coinfections with P. falciparum (57%) as compared with P. vivax (39.2%) and mixed infections (3.7%). This study demonstrated that the study population exhibited a significant incidence of coinfections with intestinal helminth and viral malaria.

Epidemiology of human papillomavirus infection in women from Xiamen, China, 2013 to 2023.

Cervical cancer is primarily caused by HPV infection. The epidemiology of HPV infection in specific areas is of great meaning of guide cervical cancer screening and formulating HPV vaccination strategies. Here, we evaluated the epidemiological characteristics of HPV infection in Xiamen population. In total, 159,049 cervical exfoliated cell samples collected from female outpatients in Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen between January 2013 and July 2023 were analyzed. HPV DNA detection was performed using HPV genotyping kits (Hybribio Limited Corp, China). An analysis was conducted on the prevalence of HPV infection, taking into account factors such as age, year, and multiple patterns of HPV infection. The differences in prevalence among age groups and years were compared using χ2 test. The overall prevalence of any 21 HPV genotypes was 18.4%, of which the high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) positive rate was 14.6%. The age-specific prevalence of HPV infection showed a bimodal distribution, with two distinct peaks, one at <25 years (31.2%) and the other at 60-64 years (32.9%). There was a downward trend in the prevalence of HPV infection over time, decreasing from 26.2% in 2013 to 14.5% in 2021, and then increasing to 19.0% in 2023. The five most prevent HR-HPV genotypes were HPV52 (4.0%), 58 (2.6%), 16 (2.5%), 51 (1.8%), and 39 (1.7%). Among the positive cases, 76.7% were detected with only one genotype and 23.3% with multiple genotypes. The most common co-infection was HPV52 + HPV58 (0.24%), followed by HPV16 + HPV52 (0.24%), HPV52 + HPV53 (0.21%), HPV52 + HPV81 (0.21%), HPV51 + HPV52 (0.19%), HPV16 + HPV58 (0.18%), and HPV39 + HPV52 (0.17%). The study provided the largest scale information on the recent epidemiological characteristics of HPV infection in Xiamen, and even in Fujian Province, China, which would support making the prevention and control strategies for cervical cancer in the region.

Exploration of low-frequency allelic variants of SARS-CoV-2 genomes reveals coinfections in Mexico occurred during periods of VOCs turnover.

A total of 14 973 alleles in 29 661 sequenced samples collected between March 2021 and January 2023 by the Mexican Consortium for Genomic Surveillance (CoViGen-Mex) and collaborators were used to construct a thorough map of mutations of the Mexican SARS-CoV-2 genomic landscape containing Intra-Patient Minor Allelic Variants (IPMAVs), which are low-frequency alleles not ordinarily present in a genomic consensus sequence. This additional information proved critical in identifying putative coinfecting variants included alongside the most common variants, B.1.1.222, B.1.1.519, and variants of concern (VOCs) Alpha, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron. A total of 379 coinfection events were recorded in the dataset (a rate of 1.28 %), resulting in the first such catalogue in Mexico. The most common putative coinfections occurred during the spread of Delta or after the introduction of Omicron BA.2 and its descendants. Coinfections occurred constantly during periods of variant turnover when more than one variant shared the same niche and high infection rate was observed, which was dependent on the local variants and time. Coinfections might occur at a higher frequency than customarily reported, but they are often ignored as only the consensus sequence is reported for lineage identification.

Epidemiological monitoring and genetic variation analysis of pathogens associated with porcine viral diarrhea in southern China from 2021 to 2023.

Large-scale outbreaks of virus-associated severe diarrhea have occurred in pig populations since 2010. To investigate the prevalence and genetic evolution of the diarrhea-associated viruses responsible for the outbreaks, we tested 1,791 diarrhea samples collected from 213 pig farms in five provinces in southern China between 2021 and 2023. The test results showed that porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) was the most frequently detected virus. The prevalence rates ranged from 47.40 to 52.22% in samples and 76.06% (162/213) in pig farms. Porcine rotavirus (PoRV) was the second common virus, with prevalence rates ranging from 25.81 to 50.81% in samples and 72.77%(155/213) in pig farms. Porcine delta coronavirus (PDCoV) was the third common virus, with prevalence rates ranging from 16.33 to 17.48% in samples and 38.50% (82/213) in pig farms. The detection rates of both transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) and porcine acute diarrheal syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV) were very low, less than 1.01% in samples and less than 3.76% in pig farms. In this study, we found SADS-CoV only in piglet diarrhea samples from Jiangxi, Guangdong, and Guangxi provinces in China, with a prevalence rate of 5.16% (11/213) in pig farms. Co-infection with these diarrhea-associated viruses is a common occurrence. The most common co-infections were PEDV and PoRV, with a prevalence rate of 6.64% (119/1,791), followed by PDCoV and PoRV, with a prevalence rate of 4.19% (75/1,791). Phylogenetic analyses showed that PEDV and PEDV variants prevalent in southern China during the past three years clustered into genotype GIIb and recombinant PEDV subtypes. Among the currently endemic PEDV, the most common mutations occurred in the collagenase equivalent (COE) and epitope regions of the spike gene. PoRV strains were mainly dominated by the G9 subtype, followed by the G5, G3 and G4 subtypes. Our results suggest that variant PEDV, PDCoV and PoRV are the main pathogens of swine diarrhea, and singular- or co-infection with pathogenic enteric CoV is common in pig herds in southern China. Therefore, prevention and control of porcine viral diarrhea should be given high attention.

Clinical Disease and Outcomes of Group B Streptococcus Bloodstream Infections at a Teaching Hospital in Saudi Arabia From 2015 to 2022.

Background Invasive disease due to group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection in adult males and nonpregnant females can cause various diseases, such as primary bacteremia, endocarditis, skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI), and meningitis. Especially in older people, invasive GBS infection has a high case fatality rate. In Saudi Arabia, little is known about the clinical signs and symptoms of GBS bacteremia and the associated risk factors and mortality rate. Methodology We performed a retrospective study at King Abdulaziz University Hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, a large tertiary hospital, to investigate clinical disease, potential risk factors, susceptibility patterns, and mortality related to GBS in adult males and nonpregnant females diagnosed with GBS bacteremia. All patients ≥14 years of age with GBS-positive blood cultures from January 1, 2015, until December 31, 2022, were included. Patient data such as age, sex, comorbidities, hospital ward, length of hospital stay, monomicrobial versus polymicrobial bloodstream infection, antimicrobials used for treatment, complications, whether an infectious disease specialist had seen them, and outcomes were extracted from the electronic health records. Results A total of 50 patients with GBS bacteremia met the inclusion criteria. The mean age of these patients was 57.0 years (SD = 16.0), and 27 (54%) were female. The 90-day mortality was 11 (22%). In total, 34 (68%) patients had a monomicrobial infection, and among those with polymicrobial infection, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was the most common co-infection (56%, n = 9/16). The most common source of infection was SSTI and wound infection in 24 (48%) patients. Most patients had one or more comorbidities; the mean Charlson comorbidity index was 3.8 (SD = 2.4). The most prevalent comorbidity was diabetes mellitus in 35 (70%) patients. Of all variables analyzed, only age was significantly associated with mortality (p = 0.016), and age had a predictive value for mortality (p = 0.035). Conclusions In Saudi Arabia, as in other countries, GBS is an important pathogen, especially in older people, that should be considered when encountering a patient with bacteremia. In addition, in patients over 65 years old, GBS bacteremia carries a high risk for mortality.

Prevalence of syphilis among people living with HIV who attend a large urban antiretroviral therapy clinic in Panama: a cross-sectional epidemiological study.

Syphilis is a serious global public health challenge. Despite prior progress in syphilis control, incidence has been increasing in recent years. Syphilis is a common coinfection among people living with HIV (PLHIV). In Panama, few data describe syphilis prevalence among PLHIV. We describe syphilis antibody and high-titer (⩾1:8) active syphilis prevalence and associated factors among individuals who attended an antiretroviral clinic. A cross-sectional study was undertaken during February-March 2022 and September-October 2022 for adults (⩾18 year) assigned male and female at birth, respectively. Participants provided peripheral blood samples and self-administered a questionnaire. Samples were screened using immunochromatography; antibody-positive samples were tested using rapid plasma regain to 1:512 dilutions. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with syphilis antibody and high-titer active syphilis. In all, 378 participants gave blood samples; 377 individuals participated in the questionnaire (216 self-reported male sex [males], 158 female [females], and three intersex individuals). Median age was 36 years (interquartile range: 28-45 years). Overall, syphilis antibody prevalence was 32.3% (122/378) (males, 50.7% [108/2013]; females, 5.7% [9/158]; intersex individuals, 100.0% (3/3)], p < 0.01. High-titer active syphilis was found among 24.6% (n = 30) of samples with positive antibody test (males 27.8% [n = 30], females 0.0% [0/9], intersex individuals 0.0% [0/3]). Antibody positivity was associated in the multivariable model with males (50.7%, AOR = 24.6, 95%CI: 1.57-384.53). High-titer active syphilis was associated with younger participant age (18-30 years, 13.2%, OR = 4.82, 95%CI: 1.17-19.83); 31-40 years, 7.8%, OR = 4.24, 95%CI: 1.04-17.21 versus 3.2% >40 years), homosexual identity (16.0% OR = 34.2, 95%CI: 4.50-259.27 versus 0.6% among heterosexual identity); in the multivariable model, associated with sexual identity (bisexual 19.1%, AOR = 10.89, 95%CI: 1.00-119.06) compared to heterosexual identity (0.6%) and weakly associated with concurrency (⩾1 ongoing sexual relationships, 15.9%, AOR = 3.09, 95%CI: 0.94-10.14). This study found very high prevalence of syphilis antibodies and high-titer syphilis among PLHIV in Panama. Those most affected are males, younger in age, those who practice concurrent sexual relationships, and those who reported homosexual and bisexual identity. Targeted interventions should include repetitive testing and treatment, especially among individuals who may be at increased infection risk.

Epidemiological distribution of respiratory viral pathogens in marketable vaccinated broiler chickens in five governorates in the Nile Delta, Egypt, from January 2022 to October 2022

Background and Aim: Respiratory viral infections significantly negatively impact animal welfare and have significant financial implications in the poultry industry. This study aimed to determine the frequency of the most economically relevant respiratory viruses that circulated in Egyptian chicken flocks in 2022. Materials and Methods: Chickens from 359 broiler flocks in five different Egyptian governorates in the Nile Delta (Beheira, Gharbia, Giza, Monufiya, and Qalyoubia) at marketing time (33–38 days of age) were used in this study. Combined oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs and tissue samples were collected from clinically diseased or freshly dead birds suffering from respiratory disease. Avian influenza (AI)-H5, AI-H9, Newcastle disease (ND), and infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) were analyzed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Results: Of the 359 flocks examined, 293 tested positive, whereas 66 were completely negative for the four viruses evaluated, with the highest positive results in Beheira. Out of 293 positive flocks, 211 were positive for a single virus, with Beheira having the highest rate, followed by Qalyoubia, Giza, and Monufiya. ND virus (NDV) was found to be the highest across all governorates, followed by IBV, AI-H9, and AI-H5. A double infection was detected in 73 flocks with either H9 or ND, or both H9 and IB could coinfect each other. The most common viral coinfections were H9 + IB, ND + IB, and ND + H9. Giza had the highest prevalence of ND + H9, H9 + IB, and ND + IB coinfection in the governorates, followed by Monufiya and Beheira. Only six out of 359 flocks were tribally infected with ND + H9 + IB in Giza, Monufiya, and Beheira governorates. On the basis of the number of flocks and the month of the year, July had the lowest number of flocks (23), while September and October had the highest number (48 flocks). Positive flock numbers were highest in October and lowest in January. Conclusion: From January to October 2022, prevalent respiratory viral infections (H5N1, NDV, H9N2, and IBV) were detected in broiler chickens across the Delta area governorate, according to the findings of the present study. In addition, IBV and H9, either alone or in combination, significantly contributed to the respiratory infection observed in broiler chickens. Regardless of the type and origin of the vaccine used, it is not possible to protect broiler chickens from the development of the infection and the subsequent dissemination of the virus into the poultry environment. In the presence of face-infectious field virus mutations, poultry vaccinations must be regularly reviewed and updated, and poultry farms must take further biosecurity measures. Keywords: avian influenza virus, chicken, Egypt, infectious bronchitis, Newcastle disease, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, subtype H5 and H9.