Good Hygiene Research Articles

Membangun Kemandirian Perilaku Personal Hygiene Pada Lansia Di Panti Jompo Welas Asih Tasikmalaya

Introduction: The increase in the number of elderly will affect various aspects of elderly life, especially the health and welfare of the elderly. One effort to improve and maintain the health of the elderly is by maintaining personal hygiene. The need for personal hygiene must be a top priority for the elderly because good personal hygiene means that the elderly have a low risk of experiencing infectious diseases of the eyes and ears. Objective: Increase the knowledge and independence of elderly people in meeting basic personal hygiene needs with the number of activity participants totaling 24 elderly people in the active elderly category. Method: Implementation of community service is carried out through stages: Preparation, Socialization, Implementation of Activities (Explanation of material, Simulation and Evaluation) and Closing. Results: Based on the results of calculating the pre-test and post-test scores for providing education and simulation, data showed that there was a significant increase in the knowledge of the elderly, from an average pre-test score of 35 to 85. The average post-test score had increased in results. post-test was 50, with the highest score on the post-test being 90 (14 people). Conclusion: Based on the results of the evaluation of Community Service activities, the picture of understanding about efforts to increase independence and awareness of personal hygiene in the elderly through education and simulation after being provided with education has increased significantly.

Faktor-Faktor Yang Berhubungan Dengan Tindakan Personal Hygiene Saat Mentruasi Pada Remaja Putri

Knowledge about personal hygiene during menstruation is closely related to reproductive health. Data from the 2017 Indonesian Health Demographic Survey (IDHS) showed that the practice of personal hygiene of adolescent girls during menstruation is still poor, namely 63.9% of Indonesian adolescent girls have improper personal hygiene during menstruation. The results of an initial survey at Darul Ulum Islamic Boarding School for 10 adolescent girls, there were 4 people who knew about personal hygiene actions during menstruation and of the 6 adolescent girls, the average changed pads only 2 times a day during menstruation This study aims to determine the relationship between knowledge and attitudes with personal hygiene actions during menstruation in adolescent girls at Pesantren Darul Ulum Padang. This study is an analytical descriptive study with a cross-sectional approach, and a sample of 49 adolescent girls at Pesantren Darul Ulum taken with systematic random sampling technique. The instrument used was a questionnaire with data analysis using univariate and bivariate tests with the Chi-Square test. The results showed that 57.1% had high knowledge, 53.1% had a positive attitude, 53.1% got information about personal hygiene and 65.3% had good personal hygiene. There is a relationship between knowledge (p=0.024), attitude (p=0.016) and getting information (p=0.003) with personal hygiene actions duringmenstruation. It is recommended for health workers to hold information and education counselling activities on personal hygiene actions during menstruation so that adolescent girls avoid the risk of ISR disease.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PERSONAL HYGIENE AND ECHERICHIA COLI BACTERIA ON THE PALM OF CHILDREN’S SDN X IN KEDIRI CITY

IntroductionMethod: The design used was cross sectional study. The population was 56. Sampling used Quota Sampling, namely 30 palm swabs from Children at SDN X In Kediri City. In giving scores for Personal Hygiene, a Likert scale was used. Materials used for research were EMB, TSIA, UREA and IMVC media, tools used were coot swabs , incubator, oven and autoclav, personal hygiene variables and Echerichia coli bacteria, research carried out from April to May 2023 Chi-square test analysis using SPSS (Statistical Program For Social Science). The results: 29 samples identified the presence of bacteria and 1 sterile sample, identified bacteria including Salmonella sp (30%) also found Klebsiella sp (20%) and Echerichia coli (47%) bacteria. The personal hygiene of the chindren showed 50% has bad personal hygiene, 43% has good personal hygiene and 7% has very good personal hygiene. As well as showing the presence of Echerichia coli bacteria on the palms of elementary school children. Conclusion A significant relationship was found in the statistical test because the results showed an Asymp.Sig value of 0.000 where the value <0.05 where Ha was accepted and H0 was rejected.

Effect of Mishandling and Vending of Used Engine Oil on the Environment, Health and Urban Planning in Kaduna Metropolis: A Call to Action for a Paradigm Shift

This study examined the effect of mishandling and vending of used engine oil (UEO) on the environment, health, and urban planning. An evaluation of UEO handling, environmental and public health effects, spatial distribution of UEO vendors and contributing factors to choice of location, and the relationship between the vending location and the contributing factors to the choice of the location was provided. The research adopted multiple approaches including questionnaire administration, interview, observation, and application of a Global Positioning System, Geographic Information System, measuring tape, and a camera. An accidental/snowball sampling technique was viable for the study. Data collected were processed using Microsoft Excel. Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were used. Results revealed the UEO was acquired from mechanic garages (41%) and stored in plastic containers (74%) until it was completely disposed of (91%). 52% had a hazy knowledge of the environmental effect of UEO, yet 45% rated the extent of its contamination as high. 59% were aware of its potential hazard which can get into the human body through ingestion but did not know it could get into the human body through contact with skin (74%) or breathing (61%). However, 84% wash their hands before a meal, with soap/water (67%), and change clothes after handling the used engine oil (69%). Most of the spots were located within 0-20 meters from the road (11), along the highways, occupying the metalled portion of the road, the road shoulders, setbacks, and walkways, blocking drainages and affecting the visual and aesthetic value of the environment. A larger proportion (40) revealed that visibility/accessibility guided their choice of location. Also, a low correlation coefficient of 0.32 was recorded. The study recommended the promotion of awareness programs, enforcement of environmental regulations, good hygiene practices, enforcement of standards and development regulations, and application of smart technology and big data.

Assessment of Knowledge on the Hygiene Practices of Actors in the Sector of “Dèguè”, a Milk-Based Foodstuff Produced and Consumed in Togo: Case of the Municipality of Agoè-Nyivé 1

“Dèguè” is mixture of fermented milk, millet or durum wheat couscous and sugar, which is one of the foods well appreciated in Togo. This study was carried out in view to contribute to the valuation of this milk-based foodstuff produced and consumed in Togo for consumer health safety. This is a cross-sectional, descriptive study with an analytical aim, the survey of which took place from April 3 to June 30, 2023 in the municipality of Agoè-Nyivé 1 of the Autonomous District of Greater Lomé. In total, 70 "Dèguè" vendors were surveyed on their level of knowledge of good hygiene practices. The KoboCollect, Epi-info version 7.2. and Excel 2013 softwares allowed the collection and statistical processing of the data. The survey showed a predominance of women (80%) among sellers. They were between 15 and 50 years old with an average age of 30 ± 8.35. Respectively 45% and 36% of sellers declared having received training on Good Hygiene Practices and Good Manufacturing Practices. Only 35.71% of sellers have a good level of knowledge on hygiene practices and among them 48.00% have a secondary level compared to 28.00% with a higher level. Considering the age group, the Chi square test showed that there is no significant difference between the level of knowledge on hygiene practices and the age group (p > 0.05). The results of this study show the need to raise awareness among all the actors involved in the "Dèguè" sector in the municipality of Agoè-Nyivé 1 for an improvement in hygiene and manufacturing practices.

Pityriasis Versicolor-A Narrative Review on the Diagnosis and Management.

This narrative review presents a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis and management of pityriasis versicolor (PV), a common superficial fungal infection caused by the yeast Malassezia. PV is characterised by scaly hypopigmented or hyperpigmented patches, primarily affecting the upper trunk, neck, and upper arms. Regarding commensal interactions, Malassezia utilises nutrient sources without affecting the human host. In cases of pathogenicity, Malassezia can directly harm the host via virulence factors or toxins, or indirectly by triggering damaging host responses. The diagnosis typically relies on recognising characteristic clinical features. Due to the wide variability in its clinical presentation, recognising the differential diagnosis is critical. In this paper, we discuss the clinical differentials, with their dermatoscopic presentation, but also describe a range of helpful diagnostic techniques (microscopy, conventional and ultraviolet-induced fluorescence dermatoscopy, and confocal microscopy). Topical therapies are the primary treatment for PV, encompassing non-specific antifungal agents like sulphur with salicylic acid, selenium sulphide 2.5%, and zinc pyrithione. Additionally, specific topical antifungal medications with either fungicidal or fungistatic properties may also be incorporated into the topical treatment regimen, such as imidazoles, allylamines, and ciclopirox olamine. Systemic therapies might occasionally be used. Patient education and the promotion of good personal hygiene are pivotal to reduce the risk of recurrence. In recurrent cases, particularly during warmer and more humid periods, prolonged prophylaxis with topical agents should be considered.

RESIDENTS’ KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE TOWARD COVID-19 DURING THE NEW PERIOD IN PHONG DIEN DISTRICT, CAN THO CITY

Background: COVID-19, a global health threat for over two years, has extensive and widespread effects. Due to the ever-changing nature of the Coronavirus, new variants are continually appearing, and more contagious variants emerge (such as Delta or Omicron variants, etc.) if we neglect to prevent the Covid-19 disease. A recent World Health Organization report shows that good hand hygiene and simple, low-cost prevention practices can prevent more than 70% of infections of Covid-19. Therefore, strategies to practice personal hygiene, vaccination, avoid overcrowding and wear masks outdoors are still recommended for disease control and prevention. Our study aims to provide the public with accurate, objective, and scientific knowledge on COVID-19 and its prevention. Objectives: 1. Assess the current status of people's knowledge, attitudes, and practices in the Phong Dien district in the new period. 2. Determine some factors related to people's disease prevention practice. Materials and methods: 1632 participants in cross-sectional descriptive research. Collect data by directly interviewing the subjects through a set of prepared questionnaires. Results: The percentage of people with good general knowledge is 9.6%, positive attitude at 89.9%, and good general practice is 32.5%. Most people know the cause of Covid-19 (99.1%); the lowest knowledge is that eating a healthy diet can fight Covid-19, accounting for 11.1%. Regarding COVID-19 prevention practices, 52.0% of people have time to wash their hands ≥20 seconds, and most of them wash their hands more than 90% of the time after touching surfaces such as door locks, elevator buttons when coughing, sneezing, etc. The content about good attitudes accounted for 85.3% to 96.4%. Subjects who have been infected with COVID19 good practices is 1.5 times higher than those who have never been infected with COVID-19 (p=0.02), families with ever infected with COVID-19 people have good practices 1.3 times higher than families without people infected with COVID-19 times (p=0.05). People with good knowledge and a positive attitude have an excellent practice rate 2.7 times higher than the other group, p<0.05. Conclusions: more attention should be paid to the role of COVID-19 epidemic prevention in the new normal period.

Prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae in Camel, Cattle, and Sheep Carcasses at Slaughterhouses and Butcher Shops

Enterobacteriaceae can contaminate meat during various processing stages, including slaughter, evisceration, and b utchering, potentially causing foodborne illnesses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae in carcass samples obtained from slaughterhouses and meat cuts collected from butcher shops. A total of 120 samples of camel, cattle, and sheep meat were analyzed for microbial contamination and isolates were identified using the PCR test. Total viable count ranged from 4.91 to 5.37 Log10 CFU/g in slaughterhouses and butcher shops. E. coli dominated, with 84 out of the 120 samples (70%) contaminated, where contamination was highest in camel meat and lowest in sheep meat with 100% and 30% of contaminated samples, respectively. Salmonella was confirmed in 40% of camel, 47.5% of cattle, and 32.5% of sheep samples. In addition, twenty-five Enterobacteriaceae strains belonging to 19 different genera were detected in the meat samples. The highest occurrence was in the sheep samples with 15 different genera followed by the camels and the cattle samples with 14 different genera each. The presence of Enterobacteriaceae in camel, cattle, and sheep carcasses raises significant concerns regarding food safety. Adherence to good hygiene practices throughout animal slaughtering is crucial to minimize the risk of infection and transmission and ensure food safety.

The Knowledge, Pattern and Practice of Menstrual Hygiene among Female Secondary School Students in Ogbomoso, South-west Nigeria

Background: Adolescent girls in developing countries may lack appropriate information, meansor materials, and access to the right sanitary facilities to manage menstruation. Hence, they haveadopted unsafe hygienic practices during menstruation that in turn have a negative impact ontheir health and education. Aim: Thus, this study aimed to assess the pattern and practices ofmenstrual hygiene and its associated factors among secondary school girls in Ogbomoso.Methodology: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in February 2022 amongsecondary school girls. A total of 460 girls were selected randomly and interviewed using astructured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was employed toidentify predictors of good menstrual hygiene management practices. Results: Overall, 76.3% ofthe girls had satisfactory menstrual hygiene management practices. (88%) of them usedcommercial sanitary pads as absorbent, 56.4% changed sanitary materials more than three timesa day, 22% of them experienced restrictions and 68.3% cleaned their external genitalia dailyduring their menstruation. 37.1% of the respondents reused the absorbent material and 86.8 usedsoap and water to wash the absorbent material being reused, while 58.9% dried the absorbentmaterials indoors. 51% of the respondents change the absorbent material thrice a day and above70% change in the bathroom. The majority of the respondents disposed of the absorbentmaterial by burning (64.8%) while 27.9% disposed of the materials in the toilet. Conclusion: Inthis study, the practice of proper menstrual hygiene management of secondary schoolgirls wasquite satisfactory when compared with findings in previous studies in the same geographicalarea. The majority of the respondents had mothers with tertiary education and these motherswere mainly responsible for the provision of information about menstruation and its hygienemanagement. Hence, it is important to state that the role of mothers, their level of education andthe information about menstrual hygiene cannot be overemphasized as it pertains to knowledgeof menstruation and the practice of menstrual hygiene.

Effectiveness of Health Education about Personal Hygiene on the Personal Hygiene Behavior of Young Women at the Darussalam Islamic Boarding School

Personal hygiene is a person's efforts to maintain personal hygiene to obtain physical and psychological well-being. Personal hygiene is needed to prevent various diseases. One way to prevent the spread of disease caused by personal hygiene is by providing health education. The aimed of this research to determine the effect of health education about personal hygiene on the personal hygiene behavior of young women. The design used Quasy experimental using a one group pre-post test design approach. The sample in the research was 79 respondents taken using purposive sampling technique. Data were analyzed using the Willcoxon Signed Rank Test with significance α <0.05. The results of the study showed that before being given health education, the majority of personal hygiene behavior was adequate, 59 respondents (74.5%) and personal hygiene behavior after health education showed that almost all 71 respondents (89.8%) had good personal hygiene behavior. The results of further analysis showed that there was a significant difference in personal hygiene behavior between before and after health education (p-value=0.000; α <0.05). Health education can change respondents' behavior towards personal hygiene in young women, so it is recommended that the public pay more attention to personal hygiene to avoid various diseases, especially skin diseases.

Microbial Diversity in Bee Species and Bee Products: Pseudomonads Contribution to Bee Well-Being and the Biological Activity Exerted by Honey Bee Products: A Narrative Review

Bees are important pollinators worldwide, promoting sustainability in agriculture and natural ecosystems. Moreover, honey bees produce a variety of honey bee products (beehive products). Honey is the main edible bee product. The consumption of pollen, bee bread, royal jelly, and propolis is becoming more popular nowadays. All these products are characterized by high nutritional value and/or bioactivity. A high microbial diversity has been reported in bees and beehive products, forming distinct microbial communities. The honey bee gut microbiome actively promotes good health and nutrient availability for the host. Furthermore, it prevents food spoilage and contributes to the maintenance of good hygiene conditions in the hive. Pseudomonads are often reported in investigations on bee and bee product microbiomes. Diverse Pseudomonas species demonstrate high metabolic adaptability, producing a wide range of bioactive enzymes and secondary metabolites. Several studies have provided evidence that Pseudomonads might play a role in bee well-being and the bioactivity exerted by honey bee products, though further research is warranted to fully understand the effects and mechanisms. The aim of this narrative review is to highlight the importance of Pseudomonads in the context of up-to-date knowledge regarding the bee and bee product microbiomes.

Exploring the Connection Between Facial Skin Cleansing Habits and Acne Vulgaris: A Comprehensive Review

Acne Vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the pilosebaceous follicles, characterized by multifactorial causative factors and clinical manifestations such as cysts, pustules, comedones, nodules, and papules. While AV is not life-threatening, it can significantly impact an individual's well-being by reducing self-esteem, increasing anxiety, and affecting their economic and social life. This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, synthesizing information from multiple reputable sources. The main objective of this review is to explore the implementation of treatments related to the relationship between skin cleansing habits and Acne Vulgaris. The connection between facial skin hygiene and the occurrence of Acne Vulgaris is of significant interest. One key aspect is the potential reduction in Acne Vulgaris when individuals maintain good facial skin hygiene practices. When facial skin is cleaned appropriately, it hinders the accumulation of excess sebum, one of the contributing factors to the development of Acne Vulgaris. It is essential to acknowledge the variability in research outcomes. While certain studies propose that excessive facial cleansing may worsen Acne Vulgaris due to potential skin irritation and glandular complications, others recommend a minimum of twice-daily facial cleansing with a gentle cleanser to maintain skin well-being. The optimal cleansing frequency may depend on individual skin conditions and the presence of comedonal lesions.

The Socioeconomic Factors of Street Food Vending in Developing Countries and Its Implications for Public Health: A Systematic Review.

The sale of ready-to-eat (RTE) street food represents an important source of income in many developing countries. However, these foods are frequently implicated in outbreaks of gastrointestinal diseases. Street food vendors face several constraints that hamper improvement in the microbiological quality of their products. The aim of this review was to update knowledge about the main causes of foodborne illnesses in developing countries, including the growing concern with the microbial transmission of antibiotic resistance. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review was conducted on original articles published from January 2010 to July 2023. The search was carried out using Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Food Science and Technology Abstracts (FSTA), the International Information System for Agricultural Sciences and Technology (AGRIS), as well as isolated searches of relevant articles from Google Scholar. The initial search identified 915 articles, 50 of which were included in this systematic review. The results indicate that, in the majority of the 15 countries examined, women constitute the predominant segment of street food vendors, representing more than 55% of the total number of these vendors. In 11 countries, street food vendors under the age of 18 were identified. Most vendors had a low level of education and, consequently, were unaware of good hygiene practices when handling food. The combination of factors such as poor hygiene practices on the part of food handlers and the lack of facilities, namely, the absence of available potable water, were frequently listed as the main causes of food contamination. Enterobacteriaceae such as Escherichia coli (61.9%), Salmonella (30.1%), and Shigella spp. (9.5%), as well as Staphylococcus aureus (30.1%) and Listeria monocytogenes (14.3%), were the most common pathogens found in RTE street foods. In 22 studies from 13 developing countries, 59% (13/22) reported high multidrug resistance in Enterobacteriaceae (40% to 86.4% in E. coli, 16.7 to 70% in Salmonella, and 31 to 76.4% in S. aureus). To address the challenges faced by street vendors and improve their economic activities, it is necessary for government entities, consumers, and vendors to work together collaboratively.

Detection of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase (ESBL) E. coli at Different Processing Stages in Three Broiler Abattoirs.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) identified extended-spectrum β-lactamase/AmpC β-lactamase (ESBL/AmpC)-producing E. coli as one of the main priority hazards for poultry. Different studies detected ESBL-producing E. coli at broiler fattening farms and in abattoirs, concluding that poultry meat is a potential source of human infection. Broiler breast skin samples taken in three abattoirs with different scalding techniques were examined for ESBL-producing Escherichia (E.) coli and their phylogenetic groups. A total of 307 ESBL-producing E. coli isolates were found, and the abattoir with conventional immersion scalding with thermal treatment of the water had the lowest incidence. Phylogroups D/E and B1 were mostly detected, while phylogroups C, D, and E were not detected. Phylogroup B2 was detected in low proportions. The phylogroups B2 and D are important as they have been associated with urinary tract infections in humans, but were only detected in low proportions at different processing stages in this study. Since the risk for the consumer of being infected via chicken meat with ESBL-producing E. coli and E. coli of highly pathogenic phylogroups cannot be excluded, good kitchen hygiene is of great importance.

The Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> among Abattoir Workers in Rivers State, Nigeria

Toxoplasma gondiiis an obligate, intracellular, parasitic protozoan that causes toxoplasmosis. Infection in humans can occur through contact with contaminated soil, water, or unwashed raw vegetables and ingestion of bradyzoites from infected intermediate hosts’tissue, which is a potential route of transmission to meat handlers, including abattoir workers. This study aimed to determine the relationship between risk factors and seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among abattoir workers. The cross-sectional study composed of 160 participants from various abattoir locations in the state. The participants were randomly selected and via a well-structured questionnaire, data for possible risk factors were obtained. Blood Samples were also collected for IgM and IgG antibodies measurement for Toxoplasma gondii. The results indicated a high seroprevalence of T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies (43.8%) in abattoir workers in Rivers State. Risk factors observed to be significantly associated with T. gondii seropositivity in this study were the animal type slaughtered (birds, cows, and goats), and washing of hands/practicing good hygiene. The study demonstrated a high level a high seroprevalence of T. gondii among abattoir workers in Rivers State. There is a need for the Rivers State government to establish enlightenment and prevention programs for these occupationally exposed and other populations at risk of T. gondii infection.

CANDIDIA AND HIV CO-INFECTIONS AMONG WOMEN ATTENDING HIV CLINIC AT GENERAL HOSPITAL EZZANGBO, NIGERIA

Candidiasis has been identified as a ubiquitous fungal infection commonly affecting people living with HIV/AIDS. This research ascertained the prevalence and risk factors forral and vaginal candidiasis among 180 HIV out-patients at Ebonyi State General Hospital, Ezzangbo. Oral and vaginal swabs were aseptically collected from the participants in duplicate. One of the swabs was streaked on Sabouraud's Dextrose Agar (SDA) and isolates were identified using macroscopic characteristics while the second swab was used for microscopic examination. Structured questionnaires were administered to participants to obtain risk factors associated with the infections. The antifungal susceptibility testing of the Candida isolates was performed using disc diffusion method. Data obtained was statistically analysed using Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS). Results obtained from the study indicated 120(66.7%) were positive for Candidiasis; 31.7% was positive for only vaginal Candidiasis, 22.2% were positive for only oral Candidiasis while 12.8% had both. Candida albicans (CA) was dominant with 71% while none albicans Candida (NAC) was 29%. Isolates were most sensitive to Itraconazole and Griseofluvin and less sensitive to Ketoconazole, Nystatin and Fluconazole. The results of this study underlined essentials of good hygiene practices and importance of regularly assessing HIV patients for candidiasis.

A Cross-sectional Study on Sleep among Indian Adolescents

Background: Adolescent sleep deprivation affects their mental health, cardiovascular health, academic performance, and safety while on the road. This study analyzed sleep quality, hygiene, and daytime sleepiness among adolescents attending a tertiary care medical institution in Vellore. Materials and Methods: A school-based self-reported survey was conducted among 257 adolescents using the Adolescent Sleep–Wake Scale, Adolescent Sleep Hygiene Scale, and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Unpaired t-test was used for continuous variables and Chi-square test for discrete variables for analysis. The correlation between sleep hygiene, sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness was done using Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: The mean age of participants was 14.5 ± 1.08 years. During weekdays, the mean bedtime was 9:39 pm ± 44 min and wake time 6:20 am ± 56 min. During weekends, the mean bedtime was 9:53 pm ± 49 min and wake time 7:03 am ± 88 min. The average duration of nighttime sleep was 8 h 40 min ± 64 min on weekdays and 9 h 10 min ± 81 min during weekends. Twelve percent experienced daytime sleepiness. There was a weak-to-moderate, inverse correlation of daytime sleepiness to sleep quality (r = −0.30) and sleep hygiene (r = −0.23). Mean scores of sleep quality and sleep hygiene were 4.25 and 4.29, respectively. There was a moderate-to-strong (r = 0.63) correlation with low scores in cognitive (mean = 3.72) and sleep stability domains (mean = 3.79). Conclusions: Adolescents in this study population have reasonably good sleep quality and hygiene. Sleep hygiene is closely related to sleep quality.

Prevention of COVID-19 in workers: preparation, precaution, and protection.

In May 2023 the World Health Organization (WHO) Director General announced the "end" of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Although the scale of the pandemic was unprecedented in living memory, it had not been unforeseen. Previous outbreaks of viral respiratory disease have shown important lessons regarding the need to protect healthcare workers (HCW), and research has also been undertaken into the relative effectiveness of control measures and their resource implications. Relevant guidance for worker protection, including HCW protection, which existed at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic was disregarded both at international and national governmental levels. In many countries there were significant systemic flaws in strategy, culture, and resource availability, and hence in overall preparedness. When the pandemic struck, many experts and organizations advocated a precautionary approach with regard to worker protection, consistent with good occupational hygiene science, practice, and standards. In many Asian countries, protective measures were relatively stringent. However, many workers were left unprotected especially as the WHO, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other governments did not pursue adequate COVID-19 protective measures at work. As the pandemic progressed, improvements in protection were patchy. A notable lack of protection arose from the underestimation of the contribution of aerosol exposure to infection risks, particularly among HCWs providing routine care of potentially infectious patients. A disciplined strategy of source control, pathway control (such as ventilation), and receptor control notably Respiratory Protective Equipment is needed, as well as worldwide vaccination, to contend with this pandemic. Control measures appropriate to the risk of infections transmitted through the air will remain necessary in the longer term, as well as adaptations in the workplace to take account of long-term COVID-19 morbidity and new work practices.

Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from marketed milk and cheese in Ilorin, Nigeria

The irrational use of drugs, especially antimicrobials as growth promoters, and in the management of disease conditions without proper diagnosis has led to a higher incidence of multidrug resistance/antimicrobial resistance, which is a leading cause of death both in humans and animals. Improper diagnosis, irrational use of drugs and lack of adherence to withdrawal periods are factors incriminated in the incidence of multidrug resistance pathogens. This study was aimed at examining the prevalence, isolation, and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Staphylococcus (S.) aureus in marketed milk and cheese in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional study design which involved sampling of milk and cheese (n = 340) from four markets (Gambari, Ojaoba, Sango and Ipata) in Ilorin metropolis, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was isolated using standard microbiological procedures. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of all positive isolates was done using the disk diffusion method. The prevalence of S. aureus was 3.5% in nono milk and 0.0% in cheese. The S. aureus isolated showed 100% resistance to ampicillin, ceftazidime and oxacillin and a high resistance rate to cefoxitin (91.7%), ceftriaxone (83.3%) and tetracycline (83.3%). Ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, and azithromycin showed lower resistance (25%) to the tested S. aureus isolates. The S. aureus isolates displayed six different resistance patterns and were resistant to three or more antibiotics. Particularly, three isolates were pan-resistant. This study emphasizes the importance of good management and hygiene practices throughout the milk processing value chain to ensure the quality and safety of the final product for consumers.

Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene: A Global Imperative for Health

Clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) can have a significant impact on human health. Lack of financial resources prevent developing nations from making investments in WASH infrastructure, such as water treatment plants and sanitation facilities. Achieving universal access to clean water and sanitation is hampered by poor governance and insufficient policy frameworks. Governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector need to collaborate to invest in infrastructure and technology, promote good hygiene practices, and undertake education and awareness-raising programmes in order to ensure that everyone has access to clean water and sanitation.