Control Measures Research Articles

Genomic diversity and transmission patterns of Yersinia pestis in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China

According to WHO, plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, has resurged since 2000. Inner Mongolia, harboring a quarter of China’s plague foci, has accounted for 80% of national plague cases in the past five years. Despite its pivotal role in Chinese plague epidemiology, the genetic diversity and transmission dynamics of Y. pestis in this region remain under-investigated. Our analysis of 585 Y. pestis strains from Inner Mongolia (1948–2021) revealed three primary lineages, with 2.MED3 being predominant. We further delineated seven sub-phylogroups in 2.MED3, with 2.MED3.1.2 and 2.MED3.1.4 showing recent dominance. These two subgroups reveal dual transmission patterns: localized short-distance spread and long-distance dispersals over 300 km. Xilingol League is highlighted as a key source and reservoir for Y. pestis, predominantly spreading from central-eastern to southwestern Inner Mongolia, including occasional reverse transmissions. These findings enhance understanding of Y. pestis diversity and transmission in Inner Mongolia, aiding in enhanced surveillance and control measures.

Bacteria carrying mobile colistin resistance genes and their control measures, an updated review.

The plasmid encoded mobile colistin resistance (MCRs) enzyme poses a significant challenge to the clinical efficacy of colistin, which is frequently employed as a last resort antibiotic for treating infections caused by multidrug resistant bacteria. This transferase catalyzes the addition of positively charged phosphoethanolamine to lipid A of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria, thereby facilitating the acquired colistin resistance. This review aims to summarize and critically discuss recent advancements in the distribution and pathogenesis of mcr-positive bacteria, as well as the various control measures available for treating these infections. In addition, the ecology of mcr genes, colistin-resistance mechanism, co-existence with other antibiotic resistant genes, and their impact on clinical treatment are also analyzed to address the colistin resistance crisis. These insights provide a comprehensive perspective on MCRs and serve as a valuable reference for future therapeutic approaches to effectively combat mcr-positive bacterial infections.

CONDUCTING CONTROL (SUPERVISORY) ACTIVITIES IN RELATION TO LICENSEES

The article describes the conduct of control (supervisory) measures on the territory of the Kemerovo region – Kuzbass, as well as measures in relation to licensees (license applicants). A form of assessment of licensing requirements conformity is presented, which in turn is carried out in relation to the licensee to streamline the license register. The problems of regulating legal documents in the field of licensing due to the lack of a list of minimum equipment, tools, technical means, including measuring instruments, for carrying out work and providing services for extinguishing fires in settlements, industrial facilities and infrastructure facilities are disclosed. The problem of non-approved warning and inspection forms during preventive control (supervisory) measures, the lack of preventive conversation sheets and accounting logs during licensing is also considered.

Influence of Flagella on Salmonella Enteritidis Sedimentation, Biofilm Formation, Disinfectant Resistance, and Interspecies Interactions.

Flagella are essential for bacterial motility and biofilm formation by aiding bacterial attachment to surfaces. However, the impact of flagella on bacterial behavior, particularly biofilm formation, remains unclear. This study constructed two flagellar mutation strains of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE), namely, SE-ΔflhD and SE-ΔflgE, and confirmed the loss of flagellar structures and motility in these strains. The mutant strains exhibited growth comparable with the wild-type (WT) strain but had higher sedimentation rates. Biofilm biomass did not differ significantly between the WT and mutant strains, except for SE-ΔflgE at 3 d. SE-ΔflgE showed increased susceptibility to sodium hypochlorite compared to the WT. The co-sedimentation rate of flagella-deficient strains was lower than the WT, and the biomass of dual-species biofilm formed by Bacillus paramycoides B5 with SE-ΔflhD or SE-ΔflgE was significantly lower than with the WT. These findings emphasize the significance of SE flagella in biofilm formation and interspecies interactions, offering insights into targeted biofilm prevention and control measures.

Examining the e-cigarette scenario based on distribution, availability, marketing, and banning: A GIS-Based qualitative study in Bangladesh.

Globally, over 81 million people use e-cigarettes, and the majority of them are young adults. Using e-cigarettes causes different types of adverse health effects both in adults and elderly people. Over time, using e-cigarettes has detrimental consequences on lung function, brain development and numerous other illnesses. This study employed a mixed-methods conducted between June and September 2023, comprising two phases: Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping of available e-cigarette point-of-sale (POS) locations and conducting 15 in-depth interviews (IDIs) with e-cigarette retailers, along with 5 key informant interviews (KIIs) involving tobacco control activists and policy experts. ArcGIS was employed for spatial analysis, creating distribution and type maps, and buffer and multi-buffer ring analyses were conducted to assess proximity to hospitals and academic institutions. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics for GIS mapping and qualitative analysis for interview transcripts, utilizing a priori codebook and thematic analysis. A total of 276 POS were mapped in the entire Dhaka city. About 55 POS were found within 100m distance from academic institutions in Dhaka city, which offers the easy accessibility of young generations to e-cigarettes. The younger generation is becoming the major target for e-cigarettes because of their alluring flavors, appealing looks, and variation in flavors. Sellers have been using different marketing tactics such as postering, offering discounts and using internet marketing on social media. Moreover, they try to convince the customers by saying that e-cigarettes are 'not harmful' or 'less harmful'. However, retailers were mostly taking e-cigarettes from local wholesalers or distributors. Customers buy these products both from in-store and online services. Due to the absence of laws and regulations on e-cigarettes in Bangladesh, the availability, marketing, and selling of e-cigarettes are increasing alarmingly. E-cigarette retail shops are mostly surrounded by academic institutions, and it is expanding. Besides, frequent exposure, easy accessibility, and tactful promotion encourage the younger generations to consume e-cigarettes. The government should take necessary control measures on manufacturing, storage, advertising, promotion, sponsorship, marketing, distribution, sale, import, and export in order to safeguard the health and safety of young and future generations.

Lower levels of household transmission of SARS-CoV-2 VOC Omicron compared to Wild-type: an interplay between transmissibility and immune status.

Knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 household transmission dynamics guides infection control and vaccination measures. This household cohort study prospectively assessed the impact of both the Omicron BA.2 variant and immunity on household transmission using dense saliva sampling and sequence analysis. Households consisting of a PCR-confirmed index and at least two household members were enrolled in March and April 2022 during the Omicron BA.2 wave in the Netherlands. SARS-CoV-2 PCR was performed on ten consecutive saliva samples. Serum-antibodies were measured at baseline and day 42. Household and per-person Secondary Attack Rate (SAR) were calculated to measure transmission. Whole genome sequencing was performed for phylogenetic analysis, followed by sensitivity analysis, to correct for multiple household introductions and index definition. Results were compared with the identical, early-pandemic, pre-immunisation predecessor study. Sixty-seven households were included, consisting of 241 individuals (median age 33.0 years (IQR 12.0-46.0)). Maximum household SAR was 59.7%, per-person SAR 41.5%. Paediatric index cases were more likely to transmit. Transmission was negatively affected by household members' immunity. Phylogenetic analysis showed multiple introductions in four households. Sensitivity analysis resulted in a minimal household SAR of 51.0% and per-person SAR of 28.5%. The Omicron BA.2 variant is highly transmissible within households. However, the transmission rate is lower compared to previous studies with other SARS-CoV-2 variants, highlighting the effect of immunity. Regardless of immune status, children have a crucial role in Omicron household transmission. Intensive sampling and phylogenetic analysis are beneficial for correctly calculating transmission rates, especially during periods of minimal behavioural restrictions.

Tuberculosis in Times of War and Peace

This chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of tuberculosis (TB) across different historical contexts of war and peace, underscoring the disease’s resilience and adaptability. It highlights the exacerbation of TB transmission due to war-related factors such as mass displacement, malnutrition, and compromised healthcare systems, while also noting periods of peace as opportunities for advancing TB control measures. The chapter examines the impact of major conflicts on TB incidence and management, including World Wars I and II and more recent conflicts like the Ukraine war. It also discusses the evolution of TB control efforts, from the discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to modern strategies against drug-resistant TB, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration and integrated public health strategies to combat this enduring global health challenge.

Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol in Commercial Suk-Saiyasna Herbal Remedy: Applying Hansen Solubility Parameters for Sample Extraction to Ensure Regulatory Compliance

Background: Suk-Saiyasna is a traditional Thai herbal remedy that comprises 12 distinct herbs. Among these, cannabis leaves constitute 12 of the total 78 components in this formulation. This study specifically examines the portion of the cannabis plant, which accounts for approximately 15.8% of the overall herbal composition used in the entire remedy. According to the Thailand Narcotics Act of 2022, the Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) concentration in herbal extracts must not exceed 0.2% by weight. This study aims to quantify the levels of Δ9-THC and cannabidiol (CBD) in commercial Suk-Saiyasna products. Methodology: This research utilizes Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSPs) to identify the optimal solvent for ultrasonic extraction, thereby maximizing cannabinoid yield. An advanced method was developed employing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), compliant with AOAC standards to meet regulatory guidelines. The method validation emphasized specificity, linearity, sensitivity, accuracy, and precision. Results: Dichloromethane was chosen due to its favorable HSP values, enabling highly efficient extraction of Δ9-THC and CBD, achieving recovery rates of over 99.9% after the second extraction. This investigation benefits from the accuracy of the UHPLC-MS/MS technique in quantifying cannabinoids in commercial products, with Δ9-THC concentrations observed between 0.00231% and 0.14218%, and CBD concentrations ranging from 0.00002% to 0.01541%, all remaining below the legal limit. Conclusions: The variability in cannabinoid concentrations among various commercial products highlights the need for standardization in the herbal industry. This finding underscores the critical role of rigorous quality control measures in ensuring the safety and efficacy of cannabis-derived products.

Time trends in maternal hypertensive disorder incidence in Brazil, Russian Federation, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS): an age-period-cohort analysis for the GBD 2021

ObjectivesMaternal hypertensive disorder (MHD) is a leading cause of significant maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. The BRICS nations are crucial in the global MHD landscape, given their large populations and varied healthcare infrastructures. This investigation evaluates the incidence trends of MHD in BRICS countries from 1992 to 2021.Study design and methodsData on the number, all-age rate, age-standardized rate (ASR), and the relative change of MHD incidence from this study were sourced from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 public dataset to investigate temporal trends in MHD incidence over three decades globally and in BRICS countries. The age-period-cohort (APC) model was used to estimate net drift, local drift, age-specific curves, and period (cohort) relative risks.ResultsA 15.87% increase in global MHD cases, alongside a 13.40% decrease in age-standardized incidence rates from 1992 to 2021. MHD incidence rates are declining across various BRICS age groups, except in China and Russian Federation, where most groups exhibit increasing trends. Annual net drift in MHD incidence ranges from − 4.25% in India to 2.38% in China. A shift in the age distribution of MHD cases from younger to older within the childbearing age range is observed in all BRICS nations. Countries exhibit similar age-effect patterns, with decreasing risk with increasing age, and varying period and cohort effects, indicative of differential control measures and temporal incidence trends.ConclusionsGlobal and BRICS-specific reductions in MHD incidence vary in magnitude. Customized preventive strategies, leveraging existing resources, are advisable for BRICS nations to address pregnancy complications. Enhancing primary healthcare and maternal care quality, particularly for older mothers, is imperative.

Study on anxiety, depression, and sleep conditions and their interrelations among vocational college students during the COVID-19 pandemic management normalization

ObjectiveThis study investigates the sleep patterns among vocational college students and examines their association with anxiety and depression amidst the ongoing normalization of COVID-19 management strategies.MethodsIn the period of January to February 2022, a comprehensive survey was conducted involving a random sample of 3,300 students. By employing face-to-face interviews, data on general demographics, along with levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep quality, were meticulously gathered and analyzed.ResultsOut of the 3,049 questionnaires deemed valid for analysis, the prevalence rates for anxiety, depression, and insomnia were found to be 9.7, 14.1, and 81.9%, respectively. Through regression analysis, several factors were identified as significant predictors of insomnia: female gender, a self-perceived average or poor family economic status over the last year, moderate psychological stress due to the pandemic and its associated restrictions, extended daily screen time during the pandemic, absence of a routine physical exercise regime, significant disruption or alteration of daily life routines due to the pandemic, presence of anxiety and depression symptoms during the pandemic, and only partial restoration of normal life routines post-pandemic control measures (p < 0.001, p < 0.005, or p < 0.050). A strong correlation was observed among the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia (all p < 0.001). The correlation between stress and depression, depression and insomnia, and anxiety and insomnia were 0.824, 0.714, 0.620, respectively, (all p < 0.001).ConclusionGiven the substantial impact of abrupt or prolonged crisis events, it is imperative to develop and implement specific intervention strategies aimed at safeguarding the psychological well-being of college students.

Assessing the Efficacy of Gene-Drive Technology in Reducing Malaria Transmission in Sub-Saharan Africa: Current Progress and Future Prospects

Malaria continues to pose a significant public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, necessitating innovative solutions to combat its transmission. This review examined the efficacy of gene-drive technology as a novel approach to reducing malaria transmission through genetic modifications of Anopheles mosquitoes. Utilizing a comprehensive literature review and analysis of experimental studies and pilot projects, we assessed the mechanisms of gene drives, including population suppression and replacement strategies. The findings indicated that gene-drive technology has the potential to significantly alter mosquito populations, thereby diminishing the burden of malaria. However, challenges such as ecological concerns, regulatory complexities, and public acceptance must be addressed for successful implementation. The integration of gene drives with existing malaria control measures, collaborative research efforts, and robust ethical governance is crucial for maximizing effectiveness and ensuring sustainable outcomes. Furthermore, monitoring and evaluation systems are essential for assessing the safety and efficacy of gene-drive initiatives. This review underscored the transformative potential of gene-drive technology in malaria prevention, advocating for continued dialogue among stakeholders to navigate the complexities associated with its application in Sub-Saharan Africa. Keywords: Gene-drive technology, Malaria transmission, Anopheles mosquitoes, Public health, Sub-Saharan Africa.

High rates of violence and low police reporting amongst sex workers in the Netherlands during the COVID-19 pandemic

IntroductionDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, sex work in the Netherlands was forbidden for many months, yet most sex workers were not eligible for governmental financial support. Therefore, many were forced to continue working illegally, likely leading to unsafe work conditions. We determined sex workers’ experienced violence and police reporting during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsData were collected through an online, anonymous survey (N = 173) covering background characteristics, the financial impact of the COVID-19 control measures, experienced sexual and/or physical violence, and police reporting in relation to experienced violence in 2021. We analyzed the data through descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression analysis. Contextualization was achieved through online focus group discussions (FGDs; N = 3 covering a total of 14 sex workers and 4 social/health workers).ResultsIn total, 41% (n/N = 71/173) of sex workers reported at least one form of violence, and those facing severe financial problems due to the COVID-19 containment measures were significantly more likely to report violence (adjusted OR: 2.7, CI 1.0–7.2, p = 0.049) compared to those without financial problems. Only 9% of those having reason to file charges officially did so. FGDs explained that violence was high due to the unsafe working conditions, and police reporting was low because police were more concerned with enforcing COVID-19 sex work restrictions rather than with prioritizing the safety and well-being of sex workers.DiscussionWe found high rates of reported violence and low police reporting among sex workers in The Netherlands during the COVID-19 pandemic, and COVID-19 control measures and enforcement likely contributed to these unsafe conditions. Safeguarding the safety of sex workers during future crises demands legislation grounded in human rights principles. This includes measures such as mitigating income loss during prohibition of sex work, and shifting police focus towards protecting rather than prosecuting sex workers engaged in illegal sex work.

First evidence of circulation of multiple arboviruses in Algeria.

Algeria like other North African countries is experiencing recurrent episodes of West Nile Virus (WNV) emergences and new health threats associated with the introduction of Aedes albopictus in 2010 are to be feared. To improve the surveillance of mosquito-borne pathogens, we performed a study using innovative tools based on multiplex molecular methods. We combined two approaches: a high-throughput chip based on the BioMark Dynamic array system to detect arboviruses in mosquitoes, and a set of immunologic methods (ELISA, microsphere immunoassays (MIA) and virus microneutralization tests (MNT)) for serological surveys in animal hosts. We investigated two distinct regions: a first zone located in the coastal humid region and a second one in the Saharan desert region. We collected a total of 1,658 mosquitoes belonging to nine different species and found predominantly Culex pipienss. l. (56.5%) and Cx. perexiguus (27.5%). From 180 pools of 10 mosquitoes, we detected four arboviruses: Banna virus (BAV), chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Sindbis virus (SINV), and Usutu virus (USUV). Moreover, we examined 389 blood samples from equids and poultry and found that 52.4% were positive for flavivirus antibodies in ELISA, while 30.8% were positive for WNV and two chickens and two equids were positive for USUV by MNT and MIA respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first report of five arboviruses circulating in Algeria, with three reported for the first time (CHIKV, BAV, and USUV). Our study brings evidence that reinforcing surveillance using more discriminant tools may help in anticipating future emergences and propose adapted control measures.

Validation of sampling points for airborne radioactivity in particulate-generating operations

This study introduces an approach to validate sampling points for air monitoring in environments where operations generate significant airborne particulate radioactivity. A case study of repair works in a nuclear spent fuel reprocessing facility is used to synthesis and demonstrate the methodology. We use the probability distribution of air activity measurements and the correlation between two sampling points near high particulate generating operations and the ventilation ducts. The methodology developed in this paper can be applied in task-related air monitoring scenarios for validation of sampling points. This will augment internal exposure control measures during works involving physical entries in areas with high potential of escalation of air activity (e.g., during major repairs, during decommissioning of nuclear facilities etc.) and to evaluate the sufficiency of respiratory protection.

Candida auris fungaemia outbreak in a tertiary care academic hospital and emergence of a pan-echinocandin resistant isolate, Greece, 2021 to 2023.

After the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, a rapid rise in reported numbers and wide geographic spread of Candida auris-related invasive infections has been observed globally. However, the contemporary epidemiology of C. auris fungaemias in Greece remains unknown. An outbreak of C. auris bloodstream infections has been ongoing for almost 3 years in a Greek tertiary care academic hospital, with 89 C. auris-driven episodes appearing in five waves every 6-7 months following peaks in colonisation rates by 3-4 months. All isolates clustered in clade I and were genetically related, 84% were fluconazole-resistant and all were non-resistant to amphotericin B and echinocandins, except one pan-echinocandin-resistant isolate (FKS1S639F mutant) recovered from a patient on empiric therapy with anidulafungin. Notably, C. auris was in 2023 the most prevalent (34%) cause of candidaemia in our hospital. The accelerated and long-term transmission dynamics of C. auris fungaemia underscore the need for rigorous infection control measures, while antifungal stewardship is warranted to contain the selection of echinocandin-resistant isolates.

Integrated control of Fusarium wilt in banana by Bacillus velezensis EB1 and potassium sorbate

Fusarium wilt of banana, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense tropical race 4 (Foc TR4), is a widely distributed soilborne disease that poses a serious threat to banana production. Many control measures have been implemented but have not been effective. Here, we evaluated a combined strategy for Fusarium wilt control that involves a biological agent (Bacillus velezensis strain EB1) and a bioactive compound (potassium sorbate). Our results showed that potassium sorbate inhibited Foc TR4 in a dose-dependent manner. Potassium sorbate did not limit the growth of EB1 in vitro; instead, it promoted the growth and antagonistic ability of EB1 by upregulating the expression of antagonism-related genes. In greenhouse experiments, the combined application of EB1 and potassium sorbate significantly reduced the disease index of Fusarium wilt by suppressing fungal growth in the roots and promoting plant growth. Overall, our results demonstrated that potassium sorbate and B. velezensis EB1 can be used together for the sustainable management of banana Fusarium wilt.

Effect of Glycated Haemoglobin (HBA1c) on Cardiorespiratory Fitness (CRF) in a Population with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM): A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) measures, maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max), and minute ventilation/carbon dioxide production (VE/VCO2 slope and others) among the T2DM population based on glycated haemoglobin (HBA1c). Material and Methods: The present study comprised a cross-sectional design, with two groups, based on HbA1c values (≤7 and ≥7.1). Laboratory samples were taken to evaluate glycated haemoglobin and fasting blood glucose (FBS). Cardiopulmonary exercise testing was performed to calculate various fitness-related parameters. Data analysis: An independent t-test was used to analyse the outcomes in the two groups. p < 0.05 was considered significant. Linear regression was used to examine the influence of predictor variables on dependent variables. Results: A total of 70 patients agreed to participate in the study, with 19 females and 51 males. The mean (standard deviation) BMI (body mass index) of all participants was 29.7(5.2), the mean (SD) weight was 84.4 (18.9) kg, and the mean height was 167.4 (23) cm. The average age of the individuals was 52 ± 8 years. The independent t-test revealed a significant difference between the two groups in terms of CRF measures. Conclusions: The current research identified the presence of poor glycaemic control and cardiorespiratory fitness measures among the Brazilian population with T2DM. HBA1c, duration of diabetes, age, and BMI can be employed to predict the ventilatory threshold (VT) and VO2 max.

Land-Use-Change-Driven Erosion and Sediment Transport in the Yaqui River Sub-Basin (Mexico): Insights from Satellite Imagery and Hydraulic Simulations

Soil erosion and sediment transport are significant concerns in the Yaqui River sub-basin in northwest Mexico, driven by land use changes and environmental degradation. This study aims to evaluate erosion processes between 2000 and 2020 using a combination of satellite imagery and numerical simulations with Iber software (Version 2.5.2). The primary objective is to assess the impacts of land use changes, particularly the conversion of forest to grassland, on erosion rates and sediment transport. Satellite images from 2000 and 2020 were analyzed to detect land cover changes, while Iber’s sediment transport module was used to simulate erosion patterns based on the Meyer–Peter and Müller equation for bedload transport. Hydrological and topographical data were incorporated to provide accurate simulations of flow velocity, depth, and erosion potential. The results reveal a 35.3% reduction in forest cover, leading to increased erosion and sediment transport in steep areas. Simulation predictions highlighted areas with high future erosion potential, which are at risk of further soil loss if current trends continue. Flow velocity increased, contributing to riverbank destabilization and higher sediment yield, posing a risk to infrastructure such as the Álvaro Obregón Dam. This study underscores the need for targeted erosion control measures and sustainable land management practices to mitigate future risks and protect vital infrastructure in the Yaqui River Basin.

Effects of fine particulate matter bound heavy metals on intentional self-harm deaths in Guangzhou, China, insight from core chemical constituents.

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is one of the major threats to human health, and may partly responsible for intentional self-harm deaths, while the limited results seemed contradictory. Further analysis on PM2.5 constituents may provide more reliable evidence. Heavy metals are crucial toxic components of PM2.5 that may induce suicide behavior. What role do PM2.5-bound heavy metals play in a threat to intentional self-harm death is still unclear. Two-year data of daily PM2.5-bound heavy metals (including metalloids) and daily intentional self-harm deaths were collected in Guangzhou. Bayesian kernel machine regression, weighted quantile sum, and quantile-based g-computation models were employed to depict the relationships between heavy metals and intentional self-harm deaths. The number of intentional self-harm deaths was 217 and 283 for 2015 and 2016, respectively. A positive correlation was found between the combined effect of the 13 heavy metals and intentional self-harm deaths. Nickel, cadmium, and iron were the primary contributors to this positive correlation. Heavy metal components play significant roles in PM2.5-related intentional self-harm deaths, and targeted source control measures are warranted to protect residents from suicide.

Detection of biliary trematodes in sheep and goats from northern and central Portugal

Fasciolosis and dicrocoeliosis are severe parasitic infections that result in substantial economic damages to livestock farming globally as a consequence of reduced productivity and viscera condemnation. Molecular tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can detect Fasciola hepatica and Dicrocoelium dendriticum DNA with high sensitivity and specificity. In this study, we aimed to assess the presence of F. hepatica and D. dendriticum by PCR-based techniques in 400 small ruminant bile samples retrieved from central Portugal. Additionally, we conducted genetic characterisation of F. hepatica and D. dendriticum in these samples. Only one of the 400 bile samples (0.25%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01–1.39) examined by PCR tested positive for F. hepatica, and two samples (0.50%, 95% CI: 0.06–1.79) tested positive for D. dendriticum. Our findings indicate a low prevalence of F. hepatica and D. dendriticum in Portuguese small ruminants, underscoring the need to investigatefactors leading to meat rejection in slaughterhouses. Implementing effective parasite control measures is crucial to minimise economic losses and improve food safety. Addressing these infections and deploying targeted control strategies can enhance livestock production sustainability and ensure safe, high-quality meat products for consumers.