Improved Hygiene Practices Research Articles

Interdisciplinary Brain-based Learning Strategies in Addressing Liver Fluke Disease and Cultural Dietary Practices among Early Childhood Students

Liver fluke disease remains a critical public health issue in Southeast Asia, driven by cultural dietary practices involving raw or undercooked freshwater fish. This study evaluates the impact of an interdisciplinary brain-based learning intervention aimed at increasing awareness and modifying dietary behaviors among early childhood students in Central Northeast Thailand. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 122 students from four provinces. The intervention incorporated brain-based learning activities such as storytelling, songs, and visual aids to enhance engagement. Pre- and post-tests, behavioral observations, and attitudinal surveys were conducted to assess the program’s effectiveness. Post-intervention results indicated significant improvements in knowledge about liver fluke transmission, symptoms, and prevention, alongside positive changes in behavior, such as increased avoidance of raw fish consumption and improved hygiene practices. Attitudinal surveys showed a shift in preferences toward safer eating habits. These findings suggest integrating brain-based learning with culturally relevant health education can foster sustainable behavior change in early childhood populations. Further research is recommended to explore this approach’s long-term impacts and scalability.

Involvement of healthcare staff in hospital hygiene during emergency hemodialysis.

Healthcare-associated infections are still a worrying health problem that complicates patient care and increases morbidity and mortality. The incidence of infections in hemodialysis patients is still high and they constitute the second cause of hospitalization and death in this category. The study's objective was to evaluate nursing and medical staff's involvement in hospital hygiene. This is an observational study that took place within the hemodialysis unit of a Moroccan university hospital from March 2021 to June 2021. A surface swabbing technique for bacteriological examination was also carried out. The study revealed some shortcomings regarding hand hygiene which was respected by the nurses in only 17.5% of sessions and in 42.2% by the doctors. Other shortcomings in asepsis measures, were also noted such as the non-change of gloves after skin preparation (1.03%) and before manual compression. The serological status of patients concerning HBV, HVC, and HIV was also not always known (31.1%). The bacteriological samples from the surfaces also showed colonization of the medical devices and the ultrasound scanner used for the ultrasound-guided introduction of the central catheters. The results of the study showed some deviations concerning the recommendations; however, they are comparable to other studies conducted internationally, especially in terms of hand hygiene. Our study results highlight some shortcomings adherence to hygiene measures like inconsistent disinfection of medical devices and dialysis stations, as well as insufficient hand hygiene practices among some staff members. However, we observed an improvement in practices following the implementation of awareness-raising sessions. To maintain improved hygiene practices and prevent infections, it is crucial to provide ongoing training for staff, ensure adequate resources, and regularly monitor compliance with hygiene standards.

Hygienic practice during complementary feeding and associated factors among mothers of children aged 6-24 months in Borecha Woreda, southwestern Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study.

Complementary feeding is a critical transitional phase in the life of an infant, and complementary foods should be prepared, stored, and fed hygienically, with clean hands, dishes, and utensils to prevent diseases. However, the prevalence and risk factors associated with hygienic complementary feeding practice have not been well addressed in Ethiopia, especially in the study area. This study aimed to assess hygienic practices and associated factors during complementary feeding among mothers with children aged 6-24 months in Borecha Woreda, Buno Bedele Zone, southwestern Ethiopia, in 2022. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a multistage sampling technique. The study was conducted on 536 mothers of children aged 6-24 months in Borecha Woreda from 1 March to 1 April 2022. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The data were coded, cleaned, edited, and entered into Epi-Data version 4.6 and then exported to SPSS version 20.0 for further analysis. Both bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted. Moreover, crude (for bivariate) and adjusted (multivariable) odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed to assess the association between independent factors and outcome variables. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Out of 536 respondents, 350 (65.3%) exhibited poor hygienic practices during complementary feeding. The risk of poor hygienic practices was about two times higher among women over 30 than those under 25 (AOR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.11-2.90). Mothers whose husbands had primary education or higher had a 50% reduced risk (AOR: 0.50; 95% CI 0.31-0.83) of poor hygienic care practices during complementary feeding compared to their counterparts. The odds of poor hygiene practice among mothers with poor knowledge of hygienic care were 2.71 times higher than those with good knowledge (AOR: 2.71; 95% CI: 1.60-4.61). The prevalence of poor hygienic practices during the preparation and handling of complementary foods among mothers in Borecha Woreda is high compared to other studies. Therefore, improving hygiene practices during complementary food preparation requires the involvement and responsibility of policymakers, the community, and families.

Distribution and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Producing-Escherichia coli from Ruminants in Maiduguri, Nigeria: Public Health Implications

Extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) is resistant to many antibiotics, including cephalosporins and penicillin. The emergence of ESBL-E. coli poses a threat to the entire animal and human community, not just individuals with direct exposure to ruminants but also to the environment. The study evaluated the isolation rate and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of ESBL-producing E. coli from 128 ruminants in the University of Maiduguri campus. E. coli was isolated from 32 (25%) of the rectal swabs collected from cattle, goats, and sheep. ESBL-producing E. coli was more common in young animals 8(30.8%) than in adult animals 12 (11.8%). More than 80% of the isolates were resistant to all of the beta-lactam antibiotics used in the study. The study suggests that the high prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli in ruminants may be associated with the unregulated use of beta-lactam antibiotics in veterinary practice and animal husbandry. We recommend public health awareness about the dangers of antimicrobial resistance. Also, continued monitoring of BL-E. coli prevalence in both animals and humans is crucial to track trends and guide interventions. Promoting the judicious use of antibiotics in both human and veterinary medicine is essential to reduce selective pressure for resistance development. Improved hygiene practices at farms, slaughterhouses, and food processing facilities can minimize contamination and human exposure.

Isolation and characterization of pathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae strains from lettuce: a potential source of antibiotic resistance and development of a mathematical model for ANOVA results.

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Klebsiella pneumoniae contamination in raw lettuce from Risalpur, Pakistan, and to analyze the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of the isolated strains. The presence of foodborne pathogens such as K. pneumoniae poses significant public health risks, particularly in regions with suboptimal hygiene practices and improper food handling. Lettuce samples were collected from various sources in Risalpur and screened for K. pneumoniae. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of various antibiotics against the isolated strains. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and linear regression, were conducted to assess differences in inhibition zones and to predict antibiotic effectiveness based on concentration. The results revealed a significant prevalence of K. pneumoniae in the lettuce samples, highlighting the risks associated with poor hygiene, transportation, storage, and contaminated irrigation water. The isolated strains exhibited high susceptibility to gentamicin but demonstrated notable resistance to doxycycline, vancomycin, and ticarcillin. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains were identified. ANOVA showed significant differences in inhibition zones, and the linear regression model predicted a Zone of Inhibition based on antibiotic concentration (β0 = 10.6667, β1 = 0.4556). The identification of MDR strains of K. pneumoniae underscores the urgent need for enhanced antibiotic stewardship and food safety protocols to manage foodborne pathogens. Improved hygiene practices throughout the food production and supply chain are critical to mitigate health risks and address the challenge of growing antibiotic resistance.

An Overview of Common Infectious Diseases in Children Under Five

Infectious diseases remain a significant concern for children under five, often leading to substantial morbidity and, in some cases, mortality. This review provides an overview of prevalent infectious diseases affecting this vulnerable age group, including Measles, Chickenpox, Common cold, Pertussis, Conjunctivitis, Eczema, Gastroenteritis, Influenza, Sore throat, Fever in children, Malaria, Meningococcal disease, and Urinary tract infection. Each condition is discussed in terms of its etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive strategies. Understanding the unique aspects of these diseases in young children is critical for effective management and prevention. Vaccination, improved hygiene practices, and early medical intervention play pivotal roles in reducing the incidence and impact of these infections. This comprehensive review aims to equip healthcare providers, caregivers, and policymakers with the knowledge needed to protect and promote the health of children under five. Key words Chickenpox, Common cold, Conjunctivitis, Eczema, Gastroenteritis, Infectious diseases, Influenza, Malaria, Measles, Meningococcal disease, Pertussis, Sore throat, Urinary tract infection.

Individual and community-level factors of availability of observed water, soap, and other cleansing agents for hand washing practice in Ethiopia: a multilevel mixed-effects analysis of the 2021 performance monitoring for action Ethiopia.

This study delves into individual and community-level factors influencing the availability of water, soap, and cleansing agents for handwashing in Ethiopia. Its comprehensive exploration offers nuanced insights, informing targeted interventions and policies to effectively enhance handwashing resources across Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess individual and community-level factors of availability of observed water, soap, and other cleansing agents for hand washing practices in Ethiopia. Data from the 2021 PMA-ET, encompassing 24,747 household participants, informed this study. Employing STATA version 17.0, a multi-level mixed-effect logistic regression analysis was performed to identify individual and community-level factors. Adjusted odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval conveyed the strength and direction of associations, with significance determined at p < 0.05. Significant factors affecting handwashing resources availability: water, soap, and cleansing agents included education status such as Participants aged below 25 and between 25 and 64 (OR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.0891, 1.7631) and (OR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.1431, 1.8621) respectively, individuals with no formal education and those with only primary education were 40 and 39% less likely (OR = 0.60; 95% CI: 0. 47,191, 0. 77,317) and (OR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0. 46,526, 0. 80,124) respectively, those who had poor and had middle wealth status were (OR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0. 24,955, 0.37165) and (OR = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.31465, 0. 44,973) respectively, who had media exposure (OR = 2.88; 95% CI: 2.5565, 3.2615), water sources, various sources like Piped Water, tube well, dug well, spring, rainwater, and surface water were less likely to provide access compared to bottled water. Furthermore, clusters with a lower proportion of primary education [AOR = 0.13, 95% CI: (0.04303, 0.44515)], and those with a higher proportion of middle wealth status [AOR = 3.26, 95% CI: (1.071, 9.9245)]. The study uncovered individual and community-level factors impacting the availability of water, soap, and cleansing agents for handwashing in Ethiopia. Individual factors like age, education, wealth, water source, media exposure, Community factors such as education levels and wealth status showed significant associations. Community initiatives should boost primary education and equitable wealth distribution to ensure widespread access to hand-washing resources, fostering improved hygiene practices.

Factors Associated with Hygiene Practices among Breastfeeding Mothers Attending Maternal and Child Health Clinic at Mandera County Referral Hospital, Kenya

Hygiene practices play an important role in the well-being and health of both breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Poor hygiene practice might contribute to spread of infection and disease, posing significant risks to the health of the mother-infant dyad. Understanding the factors associated with hygiene practices among breastfeeding mothers is essential for designing effective interventions to improve hygiene behaviors and promote better health outcomes. The study objective was to identify the factors associated with hygiene practices among breastfeeding mothers attending Maternal and Child Health (MCH) clinic at Mandera County Referral Hospital. By examining these factors, the study aimed to inform targeted interventions that promote proper hygiene practices among breastfeeding mothers and ultimately improve maternal and child health in the region. This study used a cross-sectional descriptive research design, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. A sample of 360 breastfeeding mothers attending the MCH clinic at Mandera County Referral Hospital were recruited. Quantitative data was collected through structured questionnaires. Additionally, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews were used to collect qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS Version 26 while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Findings revealed varying levels of knowledge and adherence to hygiene practices among participants. Socio-cultural beliefs, economic constraints, and access to resources were identified as key determinants influencing hygiene behaviors. Limited access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene products posed significant challenges, particularly in rural communities. Healthcare providers played a crucial role in promoting hygiene practices but faced limitations in resource availability and infrastructure. Recommendations include integrating hygiene education into routine clinic visits, enhancing access to water and sanitation infrastructure, and strengthening community-based initiatives. Addressing socio-economic disparities and cultural norms is essential to improving hygiene practices and maternal and child health outcomes in Mandera County. Collaborative efforts involving policymakers, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders are needed to implement effective interventions and address the identified barriers.

Knowledge, attitude and practice on water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and COVID-19 among households in rural Bangladesh

Enhanced water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions can significantly reduce the incidence of communicable diseases and deaths related to diarrhea by up to 65%. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advocates regular handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as an effective measure to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. This study aims to assess rural Bangladeshi households' perceptions and knowledge concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as their understanding, attitudes, and practices regarding water, sanitation, and hygiene. A cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2020 and December 2020 to evaluate knowledge and practices related to safe water, sanitation, personal hygiene, and COVID-19 in rural Bangladesh. Self-administered questionnaires, pre-tested for reliability, were utilized to collect self-reported data, which were subsequently analyzed descriptively. Of the study participants, 66.78% were female, with a mean age of 40. The majority (92.36%) demonstrated adequate knowledge of personal hygiene, although 66.78% had not received hygiene education, and a significant proportion reported low levels of hygiene practices (17.28%). Nearly all respondents (98%) reported having access to a pit latrine, either with or without a seal, yet 63.12% indicated that their toilets become unusable during floods, and 29% admitted to practicing open defecation. While nearly all respondents were aware of the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, only 46% had a comprehensive understanding of its transmission dynamics. Moreover, knowledge about preventive measures against the pandemic was found to be limited. Despite understanding the importance of handwashing, reported hand hygiene practices were inadequate among rural households. Additionally, a majority reported inadequate management of child feces, household waste, and sludge tanks. While awareness of the COVID-19 pandemic was high, a substantial proportion of respondents lacked understanding of its transmission and prevention methods. Moreover, fewer respondents reported using hand sanitizer when venturing outside for work. Future research should explore the impact of these behaviors on health outcomes and propose targeted interventions to improve hygiene practices. Jahangirnagar University J. Biol. Sci. 12(1 &amp; 2): 11-21, 2023 (June &amp; December)

Relationship between Access to Clean Water and Child Growth and Development in Kenya

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between access to clean water and child growth and development in Kenya. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Access to clean water significantly impacts child growth and development in Kenya by reducing waterborne diseases like diarrhea, improving hygiene practices, and ensuring adequate hydration. Children with reliable access to clean water experience better nutritional outcomes and enhanced immune function, crucial for their physical growth and cognitive development. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Ecological systems theory (Bronfenbrenner), health belief model (Rosenstock) &amp; social determinants of health (SDH) theory may be used to anchor future studies on relationship between access to clean water and child growth and development in Kenya. Expand the implementation of effective water purification technologies and community water supply projects in resource-constrained environments. Advocate for integrated policies that prioritize water security alongside nutrition-sensitive interventions. Policies should support multi-sectoral collaboration between health, water, and sanitation sectors to address the complex interplay between water access and child nutrition.

Contributions of Griffith Pugh to Success on Mt. Everest and His Impact on the Advancement of Altitude and Environmental Physiology.

Griffith Pugh, MD (1909-1994), was a pioneer in altitude physiology. During World War II, he developed training protocols in Lebanon to improve soldier performance at altitude and in the cold. In 1951 he was chosen to join the British Everest team as a scientist. In preparation, he developed strategies for success on a training expedition on Cho Oyu in 1952. Results from Cho Oyu led to the use of supplemental oxygen at higher flow rates during ascent than used previously (4 L/min vs 2 L/min) and continued use (at a reduced rate of 2 L/min) during descent, enabling increased performance and improved mental acuity. Oxygen was also used during sleep, leading to improved sleep and warmth. Adequate hydration (∼3 L/day) was also stressed, and a more appealing diet led to improved nutrition and condition of the climbers. Improved hygiene practices and acclimatization protocols were also developed. These strategies contributed to the first successful summiting of Mount Everest in 1953. Pugh was then appointed as the lead scientist for a ground-breaking eight-and-a-half-month research expedition where the team was the first to overwinter at high altitude (5800 m) in the Himalayas. This current work summarizes Pugh's scientific contributions as they relate to success on Mount Everest and in inspiring future altitude research by generations of successful researchers.

Personal Hygiene Practices of Badjaos in Surigao City, Philippines

This descriptive-quantitative study assessed the personal hygiene practices among the Sama Badjaos in Surigao City. The main instruments used to gather the data were researcher-made questionnaires. The study respondents were 68 Badjao respondents of P-1, Barangay Canlanipa, Surigao City, whose ages are 16 years old and above. This research utilized a descriptive quantitative research design, employing survey techniques and researcher-made questionnaires as the primary methodological approach. The design aimed to gather data through surveys in order to explore and analyze the phenomenon under investigation. The findings showed that there were significant differences in different categories of personal hygiene practices when the respondents were grouped according to their age, sex, and educational attainment. The study’s findings highlighted a significant degree of variance in the respondents’ hygiene practices with respect to the profile variables including bathing, oral and hand hygiene, clothing, and more. The study recommended sharing these findings with health organizations to disseminate information within the Badjao community via health education programs. Furthermore, presenting the findings to local officials and parents was suggested to improve hygiene practices. Lastly, based on the findings, future researchers were advised to address gaps by using visual aids and achieving a balanced respondent distribution.

Investigation of Bacterial Contaminants and Their Antibiotic Susceptibility on Yemeni Banknotes in Aden City, Yemen

Background: Banknotes are among the objects frequently exchanged between people and can serve as a vehicle for the transmission of infectious agents. Therefore, the present study aimed to isolate and identify potentially pathogenic bacteria on Yemeni banknotes collected from various municipal sources in Aden city, south of Yemen. In addition, the susceptibility of the isolated bacterial species to commonly used antibiotics was tested. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 240 Yemeni banknotes of various denominations randomly collected from people from different places in Aden city between November 2019 and February 2020. Swabs from the surfaces of banknotes were streaked onto blood agar, chocolate agar, mannitol salt agar and MacConkey agar and incubated at 37 °C for 48 hours. After isolation, bacterial species were identified and tested for their susceptibility to commonly used antibiotics using established techniques. Results: Out of 240 banknotes examined, 98.3% were found to be contaminated with bacteria, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 96 to 99. Among the isolated bacteria, 17.4% were Gram-positive cocci, 33% were Gram-negative bacilli and 49.6% were a combination of both. The mean plate counts of bacterial colonies ranged from 163.6±51.0 colony-forming units (CFU)/ml (95% CI: 147.3–179.9) for banknotes with a denomination of 100 Yemeni rials (YRIs) to 257.1±52.0 CFU/ml (95% CI: 240.5–273.7) for banknotes with a denomination of 50 YRIs. Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently isolated bacterial species, detected on 66.9% of contaminated banknotes, followed by Escherichia coli (60.6%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (42.8%). Regarding antibiotic resistance, most S. aureus isolates showed resistance to ceftazidime (80.1%), followed by ceftriaxone (78.2%), ampicillin (77.6%) and co-trimoxazole (69.3%). On the other hand, most E. coli isolates showed resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanate (84.6%), followed by ceftriaxone (79.7%), ceftazidime (76.9%), ampicillin (58.3%) and ciprofloxacin (58.1%), while most P. aeruginosa isolates showed resistance to ceftriaxone (83.5%), followed by ceftazidime (80.2%) and ciprofloxacin (54.9%). Conclusion: Most banknotes in circulation in Aden city are contaminated with bacteria, predominantly S. aureus and E. coli, with lower denomination banknotes tending to have higher contamination levels. The high contamination rate of banknotes raises concerns about their potential in transmitting infectious diseases and emphasizes the advantages of transitioning to cashless payments. A substantial proportion of bacterial species isolated from banknotes exhibit resistance to commonly used antibiotics, raising concerns about the possible transmission of multidrug-resistant bacteria through the exchange of banknotes. Therefore, it is necessary to raise awareness and improve hygiene practices to minimize the transmission of bacteria and antibiotic resistance through the exchange of banknotes.

Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles of Bacteria Isolated from Traditionally Fermented Bovine Milk from Selected Farms of Kajiado- Central Sub-County, Kenya

Introduction: Fermented bovine milk provides a conducive environment for the growth of bacteria some of which could be of zoonotic importance. These bacteria can develop antimicrobial resistance (AMR) due to the regular use of antibiotics in animals. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was undertaken to determine the antibiotic sensitivity of bacteria isolated from traditionally fermented milk obtained and processed from 114 indigenous cows kept by Maasai pastoralists in Kajiado County, Kenya. The Kirby-Bauer Disk diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of the isolated Staphylococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., and Salmonella typhi. Results: The susceptibility of the isolated bacteria was determined using nine antibiotics namely chloramphenicol (10μg), kanamycin (30μg), penicillin G (10μg), streptomycin (10μg), oxytetracycline (30μ) tetracycline (30μg), vancomycin (30μg), gentamycin (10μg) and Ampicillin (10μg). The Staphylococcus (S.) aureus isolates exhibited diverse resistance patterns to the antibiotics with the greatest resistance observed against oxytetracycline (69.2%), streptomycin (69.2%), and kanamycin (61.5%). However, a significant proportion of the S. aureus strains demonstrated a 100% susceptibility rate to gentamycin and vancomycin. Escherichia coli isolates exhibited resistance to vancomycin (100%), tetracycline (80%), oxytetracycline (80 %), and ampicillin (60 %) and were highly (100%) sensitive to the other antibiotics. Salmonella typhi isolates were resistant to vancomycin (88.8%) and highly (100%) sensitive to chloramphenicol, penicillin G, gentamycin, and streptomycin. Klebsiella spp. were highly resistant to vancomycin (100%) and were sensitive to gentamycin (100%) and streptomycin (100%). Conclusion: The study showed a high prevalence of AMR in bacteria isolated from traditional milk consumed by the pastoralists and thus there is a high risk of zoonotic spread of the pathogenic bacteria. There is a need to educate the local households on strategies to minimize the occurrence of AMR in animals and also improve hygiene practices in the preparation of traditionally fermented milk.

Alleviation of PM2.5-associated Risk of Daily Influenza Hospitalization by COVID-19 Lockdown Measures: A Time-series Study in Northeastern Thailand.

Abrupt changes in air pollution levels associated with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak present a unique opportunity to evaluate the effects of air pollution on influenza risk, at a time when emission sources were less active and personal hygiene practices were more rigorous. This time-series study examined the relationship between influenza cases (n=22 874) and air pollutant concentrations from 2018 to 2021, comparing the timeframes before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in and around Thailand's Khon Kaen province. Poisson generalized additive modeling was employed to estimate the relative risk of hospitalization for influenza associated with air pollutant levels. Before the COVID-19 outbreak, both the average daily number of influenza hospitalizations and particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 μm or less (PM2.5) concentration exceeded those later observed during the pandemic (p&lt;0.001). In single-pollutant models, a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 before COVID-19 was significantly associated with increased influenza risk upon exposure to cumulative-day lags, specifically lags 0-5 and 0-6 (p&lt;0.01). After adjustment for co-pollutants, PM2.5 demonstrated the strongest effects at lags 0 and 4, with elevated risk found across all cumulative-day lags (0-1, 0-2, 0-3, 0-4, 0-5, and 0-6) and significantly greater risk in the winter and summer at lag 0-5 (p&lt;0.01). However, the PM2.5 level was not significantly associated with influenza risk during the COVID-19 outbreak. Lockdown measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic could mitigate the risk of PM2.5-induced influenza. Effective regulatory actions in the context of COVID-19 may decrease PM2.5 emissions and improve hygiene practices, thereby reducing influenza hospitalizations.

Impact and interventions of waterborne and foodborne illnesses caused by bacterial pathogens in Nigeria: A review

Waterborne and foodborne illnesses caused by bacterial pathogens are major public health concerns, especially in developing countries like Nigeria—waterborne pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Klebsiella spp. Contribute to the spread of health challenges, primarily due to poor sanitation, contaminated drinking water, and inadequate hygiene. Similarly, foodborne pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp., are major causes of human illness, with animal-based foods often acting as transmission vectors. This review examines the current state of diagnosis, highlighting that most household water sources in Nigeria are vulnerable to contamination, with significant microbial loads exceeding WHO standards. It raises the need for effective interventions such as improved hygiene practices, water supply, sanitation and food safety management systems. Furthermore, this review discusses the impact of these pathogens on public health, noting that waterborne and foodborne diseases result in substantial mortality and economic burdens. Also, implementing good hygienic practices, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) systems, and public health education are essential strategies for reducing the incidence of these diseases. This review concludes by calling for a collaborative effort among governments, policymakers, stakeholders, and researchers to develop and implement multifaceted interventions to combat these pervasive health threats.

The Role of Dysbiosis and Chronic Viral Infection in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases

Autoimmune diseases are a diverse group of approximately 100 disorders that are characterized by abnormal reactivity of B and T cells against self-antigens.1 Clinical manifestations can vary greatly, from organ-specific to systemic, and from life-threatening to subclinical. Autoimmune conditions affect about 5-9% of the world’s population,2 and occur more frequently in women than men.3,4 A 2020 study of the prevalence of antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) found a 50% overall increase in this biomarker of autoimmunity over the course of 25 years, suggesting that autoimmunity is on the rise in the United States.5 Interestingly, the increase in ANA prevalence was notable among adolescents (ages 12-19), lending some credence to the hygiene hypothesis, which posits that improved hygiene practices and cleaner environments in childhood reduce exposure to immune challenges, and may result in aberrant immune responses when exposed to infections later in life.

Assessment of Listeria monocytogenes contamination and antibiotic resistance in raw milk samples collected from Colombo district Sri Lanka

Background: Listeria monocytogenes, a foodborne pathogen, poses a significant risk to public health due to its potential to cause severe infections termed “listeriosis”. Raw milk and dairy products are common vehicles for L. monocytogenes transmission, amplifying the risk to consumers. Additionally, the emergence of antibiotic resistance in Listeria strains heightens concerns in human and veterinary medicine. Aim: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of L. monocytogenes in raw milk samples from Sri Lanka’s Colombo district and to characterize the antibiotic resistance patterns of positive isolates. Methods: One hundred raw milk samples were collected from various milk collection centers. Samples were sourced from locations including Awissawella, Kahanthota, Meepe, Homagama, and Udahamulla. Antibiotic resistance was evaluated using standard methods like disk diffusion and well diffusion, testing ampicillin, penicillin, streptomycin, and tetracycline. Results: Of the 100 samples, L. monocytogenes was detected by conventional PCR in 83, with Awissawella having the highest occurrence (100%), followed by Kahanthota (81.81%), Meepe (81.48%), Homagama (77.27%), and Udahamulla (44.44%). Among the positive samples, 72 showed varying degrees of antibiotic resistance. The highest level of resistance was observed for penicillin (83.1%), followed by ampicillin (65%), streptomycin (32.53%), and tetracycline (10.84%). Sixty isolates (60%) displayed resistance to more than one antibiotic studied. Findings also revealed the widespread manual milking, predominant water usage over soap for hygiene, and common daily bathing of cows, highlighting the need for improved hygiene practices to minimize contamination risks in dairy farming. Conclusion: Raw milk contaminated with L. monocytogenes pose a serious public health risk. The study highlights the need for stringent hygiene measures in milk production and processing to safeguard consumers. Additionally, the high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains underscores the importance of judicious antibiotic use in both human and veterinary medicine to mitigate the further emergence and spread of resistant Listeria strains.

The Art, Microbial Quality, Safety, and Physicochemical Characteristics of Jikita: A Traditional Ethiopian Fermented Beverage.

Jikita is a traditional fermented beverage popular among the Oromo ethnic groups in Ethiopia. It is made from cereal and has a high alcohol content and thick texture. Jikita is widely consumed in the Western Oromia region of Ethiopia and holds significant socioeconomic and cultural importance. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the microbial quality and safety of Jikita, as well as its physicochemical and proximate composition. This study is aimed at assessing the current state of Jikita production and consumption. Samples were collected from two districts in the West Shewa Zone, where Jikita is most prevalent. A survey was conducted to gather information on production methods, sanitary conditions, ingredient composition, and the socioeconomic importance of Jikita. The samples were then analyzed for microbial counts, identification, and dynamics, as well as for pH, titratable acidity (TA), moisture, total solid, alcohol, carbohydrate, fat, and protein contents. The results showed that the majority of producers and sellers were middle-aged women who did not use protective clothing. Microbial counts revealed that the levels of aerobic mesophilic bacteria, yeasts, and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were below the WHO/FDA standards, and no Salmonella spp. were detected. The samples exhibited varying pH, TA, moisture, total solid, alcohol, carbohydrate, fat, and protein contents. The microbial dynamics during fermentation showed that different groups of bacteria and yeasts dominated different stages. The overall microbial quality of Jikita was indicative of spoilage microorganisms. However, the duration of fermentation inhibited the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and extended the shelf life of the product to more than 2 months. This study provides valuable insights into traditional fermented beverages and their implications for public health. It also suggests the need for improved hygiene practices and quality control measures in Jikita production and consumption.

Socio-economic dimensions of handwashing knowledge in student populations at Ukhiya subdistrict of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

The critical role of handwashing in preventing infectious disease transmission, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores the importance of understanding and enhancing hand hygiene practices in developing countries like Bangladesh. This research aims to identify the socio-economic factors affecting handwashing knowledge among students, thereby informing targeted public health interventions to improve hygiene practices and reduce disease spread. A cross-sectional study was conducted across ten government primary schools in Ukhiya between March and April 2022. The sample comprised 400 students, selected using systematic sampling techniques, excluding those with learning disabilities or unwilling to participate. Data were collected via interviewer-administered questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and Stata, with handwashing knowledge scores categorized as 'poor' or 'good' based on responses to 16 questions. The results revealed a high level of handwashing knowledge among students, with 90.5% categorized as having 'good' knowledge. No significant gender differences were observed in handwashing knowledge. However, a strong correlation was found between the educational levels of the students' mothers and handwashing knowledge, highlighting the influence of maternal education on health behaviors. Additionally, the occupational background of students' fathers and hygiene and sanitation clubs in the community were significantly associated with handwashing knowledge. The findings underscore the pivotal role of family and community resources in shaping hand hygiene practices among students. This study concludes that handwashing knowledge among students in Ukhiya is generally high, reflecting effective public health education. However, the influence of socio-economic factors, such as parental education and community resources, suggests that targeted interventions could further enhance hand hygiene practices. Future efforts should aim to translate this high level of handwashing knowledge into consistent practice across diverse socio-economic contexts, contributing to the community's overall well-being.