International Contact Research Articles

Patch Test as a Helping Hand in Farmers with Hand Eczema

Background: Farmers are particularly exposed to a large number of allergens including fertilizers, plant allergens, soil, and manure which may be aggravated by sun exposure. Hand eczema can cause significant morbidity affecting the patient’s occupational work. Patch test is an important diagnostic tool in differentiating between irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis and in the latter, to identify the culprit allergen causing hand eczema. Aims: This study aimed to identify the role of patch tests in hand eczema in farmers and to identify the common causative allergens of hand eczema in farmers. Materials and Methods: Fifty farmers aged 18 years and above presenting with hand eczema were enrolled in the study after taking approval from the institutional ethics committee. Patients who were pregnant, lactating, on systemic steroids, and immunosuppressants were excluded from the study. Patch test was done using the Indian Standard series of 20 allergens approved by the Contact Dermatoses Forum of India applied to the back of the patient. The first reading was taken at 48 h, 30 min after removal of the patch, and another reading was taken at 96 h. The results were interpreted according to the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group criteria. Results: Out of 50 patients, there were 28 males and 22 females. Hyperkeratotic eczema was the most common morphology (38%). The most common allergen was parthenium (44%) followed by potassium dichromate (22.7%) and nickel (9%). Limitations: A larger sample size would have helped to better substantiate the findings of the study. Conclusion: There is an undeniable relationship with the occupation of the individual wherein agriculturists and masons had the maximum predisposition. The most common cause of hand eczema in this study was parthenium in farmers and also other allergens played an important role such as potassium dichromate, nickel, and paraphenylenediamine.

The Use of Contact Tracing Technologies for Infection Prevention and Control Purposes in Nosocomial Settings: A Systematic Literature Review.

Pandemic management and preparedness are more needed than ever before and there is widespread governmental interest in learning from the COVID-19 pandemic in order to ensure the availability of evidence-based Infection Prevention and Control measures. Contact tracing is integral to Infection Prevention and Control, facilitating breaks in the chain of transmission in a targeted way, identifying individuals who have come into contact with an infected person, and providing them with instruction/advice relating to testing, medical advice and/or self-isolation. This study aims to improve our understanding of the use of contact tracing technologies in healthcare settings. This research seeks to contribute to the field of Infection Prevention and Control by investigating how these technologies can mitigate the spread of nosocomial infections. Ultimately, this study aims to improve the quality and safety of healthcare delivery. A systematic literature review was conducted, and journal articles investigating the use of contact tracing technologies in healthcare settings were retrieved from databases held on the OvidSP platform between March and September 2022, with no date for a lower limit. In total, 277 studies were retrieved and screened, and 14 studies were finally included in the systematic literature review. Most studies investigated proximity sensing technologies, reporting promising results. However, studies were limited by small sample sizes and confounding factors, revealing contact tracing technologies remain at a nascent stage. Investment in research and development of new testing technologies is necessary to strengthen national and international contact tracing capabilities. This review aims to contribute to those who intend to create robust surveillance systems and implement infectious disease reporting protocols.

Impacts of Different Internationalization Modes on the Global Competence of Chinese University Students

Purpose This study examines the impacts of two modes of internationalization on students’ global competence, namely, internationalization abroad and at home. This study divides global competence into five secondary dimensions to further explore the impacts of the different modes of internationalization on each dimension. Design/Approach/Methods This study uses a propensity score matching design to estimate the impacts of different modes of internationalization on university students’ global competence. Data were collected from high-level research universities in China. Findings Concerning experiences of internationalization abroad, overseas travel and visits were found to have no significant effect on university students’ global competence, whereas studying abroad significantly improved the latter. In terms of experiences of internationalization at home, engagement with international curricula and contact with foreigners had a significantly positive effect on university students’ global competence. Originality/Value The study results demonstrate that internationalization at home is an effective way to enhance students’ global competence and is of considerable theoretical and practical significance in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era.

Internationale Perspektiven in der Kontaktlinsenanpassung

Purpose. Contact lenses are global health care products (medical devices) and are fitted routinely in many countries. Key indications for contact lenses are the correction of ametropias, myopia progression control, and cosmetic reasons, occasionally also therapeutic applications. The article is based on a lecture that was presented at the VDCO Sichtkontakte Conference in Berlin 2023. The purpose of this article was to provide an insight into international aspects of contact lens fitting to allow comparisons with contact lens fitting practice in predominantly German-speaking countries and to strengthen the evidence base. Material and Methods. Subjective non-representative selection of relevant literature. Results. Assessments of international practitioner fitting preferences are conducted frequently. Contact lens related research is being commonly carried out with the aim to optimise clinical care and to reduce drop-out rates. There are considerable geographical differences in contact lens fitting practice as well as in the assessment of opportunities and risks associated with contact lens practice among practitioners. Conclusion. Practitioners in Europe hold largely positive views of opportunities and risks in relation to contact lens practice. The published literature indicates that the areas of ortho-K and myopia control are being considered to present promising opportunities for contact lens practice. Further strengthening of the scientific evidence base, e.g. in relation to novel contact lens materials, is preferable to support advancements in contact lens care. Keywords International contact lens market, orthokeratology, therapeutic contact lenses, myopia control

Diplomatic Protocols: Illuminating the path Improving Political Relations between States

Throughout history, it has been traditional to formally receive political and diplomatic representatives at various levels during national, regional, and worldwide events using diplomatic protocols, which originated from diplomatic courtesies. Establishing trust and confidence in those who will be taking part in future meetings and conversations begins with the use of protocols. Officials' concerns are lessened when hosts adhere strictly to these guidelines since they know what actions and behaviors are appropriate at a given time and place. Understanding this notion reduces anxiety and boosts their confidence during conversations. Protocols create the conditions required for state representatives to communicate successfully, hence promoting state-to-state and international contact. A state's ties may become strained if protocols are not followed precisely and correctly. As a result, it is evident that protocols and their use in diplomatic relations have a substantial impact on the political and diplomatic ties between nations as well as on the development of links between states or parties. We have chosen to concentrate this research on investigating the function of protocols in diplomatic contacts due to the significant significance and influence of protocols in diplomatic relations.

Compliance and Experience of Quarantine during the 1st Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic in Mumbai.

At the beginning of the pandemic, quarantine was thought to be the most effective way to contain the spread of the virus among international travelers and any potential carriers. This study assessed the type of quarantine, compliance to quarantine measures (QM), mood, and any social stigma faced during that period. After approval from the institutional ethics committee, a telephonic interview survey was conducted. Individuals above 18 years of age visiting the only functioning COVID-19 screening outpatient department at Kasturba Hospital between March 1, 2020, and March 10, 2020 were included in the study. A total of 263 individuals were interviewed. Out of 263 respondents, 71% and 34% of individuals had a history of international travel and contact history, respectively. Only 63% had read the guidelines on home QM. Among individuals quarantined, 127 that living alone in their apartments, 60 were in a single room with relatives outside, 37 were living with family members because they did not have another room, and 39 were staying in a facility quarantine center. On assessing the QM followed, wearing a mask was the least followed (46%). The average score of compliance to QM was 82.6%. Seventy-two per cent rated their mood as "5" on a scale of 1-10. Social stigma was reported by 7.6% of respondents. Among the early set of quarantined individuals in the city during the first wave of the pandemic, average score of compliance to QM was high even though lesser people recalled reading the guideline on home QM.

A Dermatological Safety Test of a Face Serum Formulation Derived from Honey and Propolis of Stingless Bee from East Kalimantan

Skincare, which is a type of cosmetics, is an essential component in the process of maintaining and caring for the skin. It is known that the skin quickly absorbs the tiny molecular structure of serum. Stingless bees, widespread in East Kalimantan and Indonesia, benefit the skin's health by producing honey and propolis. This research aims to demonstrate that a face serum derived from honey and propolis of stingless bees from East Kalimantan is safe for use on the skin using dermatological standards. Here we will see whether there are allergic reactions and irritation from using facial serum. Using the Repeated Open Application Test (ROPT) technique, 20 volunteers were subjected to applying a face serum containing honey and stingless bee propolis. The serum was given to the upper arm twice daily for seven days. As part of the test, allergic reactions were evaluated using the system developed by the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group (ICDRG), and irritating reactions were evaluated using the Primary Irritation Index (PII). The results showed that on the first day, four of the volunteers reported moderate irritation reactions. Consequently, they scored 0.7, indicating they suffered minor irritation. On the other hand, the reactions of the remaining 16 volunteers were typical. Twenty participants had normal skin from the second treatment until the seventh day. The overall findings show that the facial serum based on honey and kelulut propolis from stingless bees from East Kalimantan showed a mild irritation reaction at the beginning of use and was safe to use in subsequent uses.

Factors Associated with Utilization of COVID-19 Preventive Measures by Patients Attending Private Healthcare Facilities in Southwest Nigeria

Background: Understanding disease risk is important for prevention. Identifying high-risk COVID-19 patients helps healthcare professionals implement precautions. This study examined factors related to COVID-19 prevention in patients at private healthcare facilities in Southwest Nigeria, during the early stages of the pandemic. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in two hospitals using multi-stage sampling. 400 respondents were selected two out of 78 private healthcare facilities in in Southwest Nigeria. Trained interviewers administered a questionnaire to collect information on risk profile, symptoms, perception of COVID-19 risk, and preventive practices. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and binary logistic regression at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The average age of participants was 27.83 + 10.46 years. 52.8% of respondents were female. 70.5% were single, 75.8% belonged to the Yoruba ethnic group, and 72% identified as Christians. None had a history of international travel or contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case in the past 14 days, but 12.75% had been in contact with suspected cases. 47% reported having a fever. The majority had a low risk score for COVID-19. Most did not smoke (98.5%), consume alcohol (83.75%), or visit club houses (85.75%). Only 9.5% underwent COVID-19 testing, and 16.0% of those tested were positive. The main reason for test refusal was a lack of perception of susceptibility to COVID-19. Adherence to preventive practices was poor in all investigated circumstances. Conclusion: Patients presenting in hospitals during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic had a low risk of COVID-19. However, their poor compliance with preventive protocols and low testing uptake make them a potential source of transmission. Strategies to promote adoption of preventive measures are needed, especially among patients at private healthcare facilities.

Patch Test in Chronic Urticaria as a Diagnostic Investigative Tool – A Study in a Tertiary Care Center

Abstract Background: Chronic urticaria (CU) is associated with diverse clinical presentations and varied etiology. Contact allergy plays a critical role in the etiopathogenesis of CU; thus, a patch test can be helpful in identifying potential contact allergens. Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective of this study were to study the causative contact allergen in CU using the Indian Standard Battery allergens approved by the Contact and Occupational Dermatoses Forum of India and to establish the use of patch test in CU. Materials and Methods: One hundred clinically diagnosed cases of CU patients attended to the dermatology department for 2 years were evaluated with detailed history and clinical examination and a patch test was done using the Indian standard series. The patches were removed after 48 h and a reading was taken after 30 min. Observations were graded according to the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group recommendations. Results: Hospital-based prevalence of CU among patients attending the dermatology outpatient department was 3%. A positive patch test was observed in 30% of our study cases. Nickel sulfate was the most common allergen followed by fragrance mix. Patch test positivity was more in housewives, followed by farmers, teachers, and construction workers. Conclusion: The patch test can be used as a diagnostic investigative tool for the etiological diagnosis of CU.

Nickel Sensitivity in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Nickel (Ni) is the most common contact allergen in the population. We aimed to investigate whether there is a relationship between Ni sensitivity and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in our study. This study was conducted in 50 patients with IBS who were followed up between March 2018 and July 2018, and 40 healthy people as a control group in a single center with a dermatology department. European standard contact allergen series Ni preparate and corticosteroid pomace were applied to the back region of the study subjects. The evaluation was performed at 48, 72, and 96 hours according to the scheme proposed by the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group (ICDRG). Those who reacted at 72 hours were considered to have Ni allergy. Results: The female/male ratio was 24/26 and 18/22 in the patient and control groups, respectively. The mean ages of the patient and control groups were 42.82 (±10.65) and 39.77 (±11.21) years, respectively. Ni sensitivity was present in 40% of the patient group and 17.5% of the control group (p=0.03). We believe that the presence of Ni sensitivity is important in the pathogenesis of IBS disease. In our study, Ni sensitivity was found to be quite high in IBS patients compared to the normal population.

The Role of Pilgrimage Missions in Zunghar-Qing Relations in Tibet and Kokunor

The article is interested from the point of view of the research at the interaction between the nomadic state and a settled agricultural empire after the long years of military confrontation, with the use of religious mechanisms in the regions, which in the recent past had been the subject of a dispute. The article presents the stages of the formation and existence of the phenomenon of pilgrimage missions “Mangja” by Oirat nomads to Tibet and Kokunor, and its impact on the political and economic sphere of the region. The author shows the approximate composition of the participants and the route of these missions. Satisfying the spiritual needs of pilgrimage groups, a trading activities and the collection of information were integral companions of the Zunghar “Mangja” missions to Qing Tibet and Kokunor, which also stimulated the Qing authorities to respond enthusiastically to these events and develop relevant institutions in this domains. The article shows how this phenomenon was seen by the Zunghars and by the Qing authorities and what components it consisted of. With the ϐinal victory over the nomadic state in the middle of the 18th century, the Qing Empire interrupted the practice of this kind in international contact.

The Preparation and Sensory Evaluation of Post-waxing Aftercare Lotion

In this study, we prepared a lotion containing <i>Gymnema sylvestre Leaf</i> Extract (GSLE) and evaluated its stability, safety, and usability. To assess stability, a series of scientific evaluations were conducted, including centrifugation testing and heat-cool cycling. Following the application of the Lycon, 5% GSLE lotion on the skin, a skin patch test was conducted to detect the presence of erythema in the designated patch area, in accordance with the established guidelines provided by the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group (ICDRG). Using a 10-point scale, the level of satisfaction resulting from actual usage was assessed. The stability of both the vehicle and the 5% GSLE lotion was found to be intact in terms of their physical and chemical properties. No adverse skin reactions were observed in any of the groups tested, which included the vehicle, Lycon lotion, and 5% GSLE lotion. Furthermore, when considering efficacy, functionality, and usability, the 5% GSLE lotion demonstrated the highest value. In terms of absorption, moisturization, smoothness, and calming effects, the Lycon lotion exhibited relatively lower performance compared to both the vehicle and the 5% GSLE lotion. Across all evaluation criteria, the 5% GSLE lotion was found to provide an excellent user experience.

MHealth to improve implementation of TB contact investigation: a case study from Uganda

BackgroundImplementation science offers a systematic approach to adapting innovations and delivery strategies to new contexts but has yet to be widely applied in low- and middle-income countries. The Fogarty Center for Global Health Studies is sponsoring a special series, “Global Implementation Science Case Studies,” to address this gap.MethodsWe developed a case study for this series describing our approach and lessons learned while conducting a prospective, multi-modal study to design, implement, and evaluate an implementation strategy for TB contact investigation in Kampala, Uganda. The study included formative, evaluative, and summative phases that allowed us to develop and test an adapted contact investigation intervention involving home-based sample collection for TB and HIV testing. We concurrently developed a multi-component mHealth implementation strategy involving fingerprint scanning, electronic decision support, and automated reporting of test results via text message. We then conducted a household-randomized, hybrid implementation-effectiveness trial comparing the adapted intervention and implementation strategy to usual care. Our assessment included nested quantitative and qualitative studies to understand the strategy’s acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, fidelity, and costs. Reflecting on this process with a multi-disciplinary team of implementing researchers and local public health partners, we provide commentary on the previously published studies and how the results influenced the adaptation of international TB contact investigation guidelines to fit the local context.ResultsWhile the trial did not show improvements in contact investigation delivery or public health outcomes, our multi-modal evaluation strategy helped us identify which elements of home-based, mHealth-facilitated contact investigation were feasible, acceptable, and appropriate and which elements reduced its fidelity and sustainability, including high costs. We identified a need for better tools for measuring implementation that are simple, quantitative, and repeatable and for greater attention to ethical issues in implementation science.ConclusionsOverall, a theory-informed, community-engaged approach to implementation offered many learnings and actionable insights for delivering TB contact investigation and using implementation science in low-income countries. Future implementation trials, especially those incorporating mHealth strategies, should apply the learnings from this case study to enhance the rigor, equity, and impact of implementation research in global health settings.

Maintaining Cross-Border Cargo Movements Between Jordan and Saudi Arabia During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

One of Jordan's essential border crossings, the Al-Omari border crossing, is 1 of 3 land crossings between Jordan and Saudi Arabia and is located 160 km west of the capital city of Amman. Given its economic importance and essential role in the functioning of food supply networks across the region, Jordan undertook evidence-driven actions to keep the border crossing safely open during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-border coordination and collaboration, specifically with international contact tracing and case management, have been critical elements of Jordan's response. While several bottlenecks and delays led to documented clusters of infections among truck drivers, this case study illustrates the use of evidence to mitigate disease exposure and spread. Plans to manage public health threats need to consider sustainable strengthened surveillance and laboratory capacities coupled with efficient cross-border communication and coordination plans implemented across multiple sectors engaged in cross-country health.

Analysis of Hexavalent Chromium in Cement Samples From Countries Within and Outside the EU: A Study From the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group.

Background: Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) caused by hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is often severe and difficult to treat. The content of Cr(VI) in cement can be reduced by, for example, addition of iron(II) sulfate. Since 2005 the content of Cr(VI) in cement is regulated in the EU Directive 2003/53/EC and must not exceed 2 ppm. Since this regulation came into force, ACD caused by cement has markedly been reduced. Objective: To investigate Cr(VI) and total chromium content in samples of cement from countries within and outside the EU. Methods: The members of the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group (ICDRG) were invited to participate in the study with the aim to collect cement samples from geographically different areas. The content of Cr(VI) in the samples was estimated by the diphenyl carbazide spot test, atomic absorption spectroscopy was used to assess the total chromium content. Results: Forty-five cement samples were analyzed, containing amounts of Cr(VI) from <0.1 to >70 ppm. Twenty-one samples contained >2 ppm Cr(VI), 24 contained less. Four of 17 samples from within the EU contained >2 ppm Cr(VI), that is, higher amounts than stipulated in the EU directive, as compared with 17 samples from countries outside the EU. Conclusion: In countries outside the EU, significantly more cement samples contained >2 ppm Cr(VI).

Chinese Citizen or Global Citizen? Nationalism and Cosmopolitanism at an International School in Beijing

International education is a popular educational strategy among middle-class and affluent families in China and is pursued at increasingly younger ages. Yet, we do not know the implications of this family strategy for the identities and worldviews of privileged Chinese youth and what this may mean for the future of the Chinese nation-state, given the important role of the middle and affluent classes in the trajectory of a nation. To investigate this question, the current study draws on data collected at two high schools that cater to socioeconomically advantaged Chinese families: an international school in Beijing and a standard curriculum school in neighboring Tianjin. Despite unusually high levels of international travel and contact with non-Chinese groups, students at the international school were markedly similar to their counterparts at the standard curriculum school in identities and worldviews. Overall, findings suggest that families that engage with international education for strategic purposes cultivate mundane and strategic forms of cosmopolitanism in their children, as opposed to moral-ideological cosmopolitanism or a sense of global citizenship. Consequently, this study raises issues with arguments that international education will result in more globally-oriented individuals, and with theories that pit the forces of globalization and cosmopolitanism against the nation-state.

Allergic contact dermatitis to chlorhexidine-containing antiseptics in infants and children: the origin of sensitization and the role of the excipients in this sensitization (a series of ten cases).

The recent COVID-19 pandemic provoked an outstanding increase of infection-control measures, with chlorhexidine becoming an extensively used antiseptic. Allergic contact dermatitis to chlorhexidine is considered as a rare event in children, is often difficult to identify, and its diagnosis is often misdiagnosed as other skin diseases. We aimed to explore the sensitization to chlorhexidine-containing antiseptics in infants and children to determine the origin of their sensitization and the role of the excipients in their dermatosis. We performed patch tests with chlorhexidine digluconate 0.5%, benzalkonium chloride 0.1%, benzyl alcohol 10%, 5% and 1% in ten children (1-16.5-year-old) with severe contact reactions to chlorhexidine-based antiseptics (Biseptine®) and cosmetics. We also performed patch tests with sodium benzoate 5% in four of the children. Results were measured according to criteria recommended by the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group. Patch test reactions revealed that most children were sensitized to at least two components of chlorhexidine-containing antiseptics (chlorhexidine, benzyl alcohol and/or benzalkonium chloride). To explore the origin of the sensitization, we searched for umbilical cord care with chlorhexidine- containing antiseptics and the use of cosmetics and drugs containing chlorhexidine and excipients of chlorhexidine-containing antiseptics. Most parents reported prior disinfection of umbilical cord with chlorhexidine-containing antiseptics, but this was not always the case. Allergic contact dermatitis to chlorhexidine, benzyl alcohol and benzalkonium chloride should be considered in infants and children with severe eczema and concomitant allergies. The regular use of cosmetics and drugs containing chlorhexidine, benzyl alcohol, benzalkonium chloride or sodium benzoate should be cautioned or avoided in children with severe eczema or pre-existing allergies. Early suspicion and allergology exploration of allergic contact dermatitis to chlorhexidine-containing antiseptics and their excipients is of paramount importance to help prevent severe allergic reactions to topical antiseptics and numerous cosmetics.

POLICY OF NEW HORIZONS OF UKRAINE IN THE ASIAN DIRECTION

The article examines the new horizons policy in relation to the Asian continent, which was announced by the President of Ukraine at the annual Conference of Ambassadors of Ukraine at the end of December 2022. It is stated that the policy of Asian countries regarding Putin’s war against Ukraine is the policy of a «toothless tiger». It is assumed that due to the war and collective Western sanctions against countries that bought Russian weapons, Russia lost its position as the number one arms seller to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and India. It was recommended to the specialists of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to strengthen the coordination of efforts between the member states of ASEAN, Central Asia, India, and China, to expand the International Contact Group for ensuring the defense of Ukraine (the Ramstein coalition) at the expense of these countries in order to defeat the russian occupier. It is emphasized that the russian-Ukrainian war has a fundamental impact on the world system of international relations in the security, economic, and trade components and destroys the European security system.

Trends in Scleral Lens Fitting Practices: 2020 Scleral Lenses in Current Ophthalmic Practice Evaluation Survey.

To explore trends in demographic characteristics of scleral lens (SL) practitioners and primary indications for SL fitting over 5 years. An online survey similar to the 2015 Scleral Lenses in Current Ophthalmic Practice Evaluation (SCOPE) study was designed and administered from November 8, 2019, through March 31, 2020, to attendees at two international contact lens meetings, members of the Scleral Lens Education Society, and participants in the 2015 SCOPE study. Practitioners reporting at least five completed SL fits were included in the analysis. Of 922 respondents, 777 had fit at least five SLs: 63% from the United States (59 other countries were represented), findings similar to the 2015 survey, in which 799 respondents (72%) were US-based and 49 from other countries. Most practitioners were in community practice (76%) than academic practice (24%). In 2015, 64% were in community practice and 36% in academic practice. A median of 84% of SLs were fit for corneal irregularity, 10% for ocular surface disease, and 2% for uncomplicated refractive error. In comparison, the 2015 indications were 74%, 16%, and 10%, respectively. The median number of fits completed per practitioner was 100 (range, 5-10,000; mean [SD] 284 [717]; n=752). In 2015, the median was 36 (range, 5-3,600; mean [SD] 125 [299]; n=678). The number of experienced SL practitioners is increasing, as is international representation. Most practitioners practice in community rather than academic settings. SLs continue to be primarily prescribed for corneal irregularity and are rarely used solely for correction of refractive error.

Religious pilgrimage and COVID-19. An observational report in Italy from contact tracing activities

Abstract Issue/Problem Religious Mass Gathering (MG) represent one of public health challenges for Health Authorities due to potential spread of communicable diseases. This is much more true during a pandemic as COVID-19. Surveillance is crucial to prevent further spreading of infectious disease related to a religious MG. Description of the problem During international contact tracing activities an increase of reporting of COVID-cases with a travel history to a Catholic shrine in Europe was observed, despite travel restrictions put in place. In order to promote public health actions as risk communication, a risk evaluation was conducted. A descriptive analysis was carried out: personal and vaccination data were collected; for cases, date and type of positive tests, date of symptoms’ onset were collected; for high-risk contacts, date and type of negative tests at the end of follow-up were collected. Frequencies were calculated. Results Six journeys back from Medjugorje were identified, with at least one positive case. All trips took place between 18/09/2021 and 29/10/2021. 31 positive cases out of 160 travellers were identified, with number of cases per travel ranging from 1 to 11. Lessons Religious MG represent an important global health issue. Even though a specific surveillance was not activated, international contact tracing activities turned out a great source of epidemic intelligence and consequent surveillance and control activities led to risk assessment and communication actions. Key messages • In the pandemic context, where travel restrictions were put in place, surveillance for Religious MG should be always implemented. • Cooperation among all the stakeholders involved as Church, travel agency, Regional Health Systems and Government Bodies has to be promoted for specific surveillance in religious MG events.