Leech Infestation Research Articles

Acute subdural haemorrhage in a warfarin user following leech bite: Clinical note and review

he Article Abstract is not available.

Unnoticed freshwater leech as a hidden cause for recurring epistaxis: a case series and review of literature conducted at Tertiary Care Hospital Sikkim, North East India

BackgroundWhile leeches as intranasal foreign bodies are not frequently encountered, they can be one of the causes of epistaxis. The aim of the study is to raise awareness among healthcare professionals about the possibility of patients from leech endemic regions presenting with epistaxis.Case presentationWe present a series of epistaxis cases due to intranasal leech infestation. In our series of 10 cases, there were 7 male and 3 female patients, aged between 2 and 53 years old. The duration of the complaint ranged from 1 to 5 weeks. All patients experienced with blood-stain nasal discharge or frank nasal bleeding at some point and most of them have a history of leech infestation from spring water as a local source. This article presents our approach to managing nasal leech infestation as epistaxis and outlines the precautionary measures taken for the retrieval of this living foreign body.ConclusionDetails of the history must be taken before concluding the diagnosis. Maintain a high index of suspicion of leech infestation as a hidden cause of epistaxis especially in patients coming from endemic areas.

Predation of anurans in southern England by Batracobdella algira, a leech previously unknown in the UK

Leech predation of amphibians is known to occur in Europe. Observation of severe leech infestation affecting a common toad Bufo bufo in southern England in summer 2020, with leeches covering the toad’s eyes, throat and axillae, initiated a collaborative investigation to learn more about the occurrence of such leech predation of anurans in the UK. Soliciting reports from the general public identified leech predation of common toads and common frogs Rana temporaria in Devon, Greater London, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Somerset in southern England. Through morphological and/or molecular investigation of samples, Batracobdella algira, a leech species not previously reported in the UK, was identified in the majority of cases. The known native Placobdella costata was also identified, with the observed feeding behaviour on anuran hosts being indistinguishable from that of B. algira. Whether the latter is a previously unrecorded or an introduced species has not yet been established. However, sequence data from multiple gene loci were identical to B. algira found in Tunisia, suggesting it more likely to be a non-native species to the UK. Further work is required to elucidate the potential origin and distribution of B. algira in the UK and whether it has any impact on amphibian populations. Keywords: amphibians, Bufo bufo, Glossiphoniidae, Hirudinea, Rana temporaria

Postmenopausal Vaginal Bleeding Due to Vaginal Leech Infestation: A Case Report

Introduction: Vaginal bleeding due to leech bites is a highly unusual and serious problem in postmenopausal women, potentially leading to severe complications and even death. Case Presentation: A 68-year-old rural woman, 13 years post-menopause, was admitted to a hospital in eastern Iran with a complaint of continuous vaginal bleeding with clot discharge for 12 days. During the medical examination, a dark worm moving in waves was observed in the labia minora of the vulva. The area was washed with 0.9% normal saline solution, and the leech was removed from the inner surface of the labia minora using forceps and pincers. The patient was monitored as an outpatient for 4 hours to control the bleeding and was subsequently discharged in good condition. She was advised to take iron tablets and folic acid for one month. Her test results were as follows: hemoglobin = 10 mg/dL, hematocrit = 32%, platelet count = 145,000, prothrombin time = 13 seconds, partial thromboplastin time = 35 seconds, and INR = 1.1. Her vital signs at admission were: temperature = 37.5°C, pulse rate = 100/min, blood pressure = 120/60 mmHg, and respiratory rate = 30 breaths per minute. Conclusions: Vulvar and vaginal leech bites can cause severe vaginal bleeding and anemia in postmenopausal women. To reduce complications caused by delays in diagnosis or treatment, healthcare workers should consider the possibility of vulvar and vaginal leech bites in postmenopausal rural women and individuals who use river water for drinking, bathing, or showering. Taking a detailed history and performing a thorough physical examination before any diagnostic procedure can help quickly and accurately diagnose the cause of bleeding in these patients.

Wound Healing Effect of Furfural and Pentadecanal from Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers Acetone Flower extracts against Haemadipsa sylvestris Bite

Health professionals working in rural areas where leech infestation is common should be aware that people are at risk for leech bites. The bite develops infected and wounds or ulcers maybe suffer a reaction to an allergen.The experimental plant Lagerstroemia speciosa is commonly called as Queen crape myrtle.Medicinal plants as effective and affordable treatments for cutaneous wounds.The objective of the present study was to investigate the wound healing effect of acetone flower extract of L. speciosaagainst Haemadipsasylvestris bite.Group I is control they didn’t receive any drug treatment, Group II and III received commercial ointment Betadine and Herbal ointment, respectively. Group IV and V are the topical application of LAFE 1% and 2% formulated ointments. The results revealed that the topically applied herbal ointment treated groups had rate of wound contraction 94.4%. The topically applied LAFE 1% and LAFE 2% treated groups had rate of wound contraction 94.5% and 95.3% (P<0.05) respectively at day 21. The present research finds the LAFE1% treated group has equal contraction to herbal ointment applied group and LAFE2% treated group has highest contraction rate compared to control. The study revealed that the acetone flower extract of the L. speciosa was capable of promoting wound healing and functional recovery in a dose-dependent way.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants of the Abohoy Gara Mountains, Northern Ethiopia

IntroductionFor many years, medicinal plants have been used in Ethiopia to manage a wide range of diseases. Documenting use of the plants for traditional medicine is necessary bases for obtaining new lead bioactive plant based natural products for the discovery of allopathic drugs, preserving the associated local knowledge and medicinal plants. This study aimed to document ethnobotanical knowledge associated with medicinal plants, parts used, route of preparations, and mode of administration. MethodsThe study was conducted from February 2017 to March 2018. The data were collected by interviewing 177 (139 male and 38 female) informants. Semistructured interviews, group discussions, guided field waks and quantitative approaches, such as informant consensus factors and ranking were used to collect and quantify the data. The data were analysed using Microsoft Excel, t test and analysis of variance (ANOVA). ResultsA total of 57 medicinal plant species belonging to 51 genera in 36 families were used by local people to prevent various ailments. The Asteraceae was the dominant family contributing the greatest number of medicinal plants. Leaves were the most widely used plant parts for treating human ailments (20, 56.7 %). Most of the collected traditional medicinal plants were used for treating human ailments directly (11, 28 %), while crushing was the most common method of preparation for treating livestock ailments (42, 70.2 %). Half of the herbal medicines were prepared for internal use, accounting for 31 (54.4 %). The findings showed that Cynoglossum coeruleum was the most preferred species for treating febrilosis, accounting for 33 cases. The highest informant consensus factor (0.83) was obtained for diseases related to febrilosis, and the lowest (0.56) was obtained for diseases associated with livestock (leech infestation and ectoparasites). ConclusionsThis study showed that medicinal plants in the study area, coupled with rich indigenous knowledge, were used by a large member of the population and are the most important means of treating some common ailments. However, medicinal plants in the study district are under pressure due to both natural and anthropogenic influences. Hence, the declining medicinal plants in the area require the application of complementary on-site and off-site conservation approaches.

In vitro assessment of Ethanolic extracts from specific herbs on controlling aquatic leech (Tyrannobdella rex) and land leech (Philobdella sp.) infestation in Mithun (Bos frontalis)

Leech infestation poses a significant threat to Mithun (Bos frontalis) in the north-eastern region of India, leading to various health issues and potential fatality. To address this pressing concern, we conducted a comprehensive research study aimed at assessing the efficacy of herbal plant extracts against aquatic leeches, particularly Tyrannobdella rex, and land leeches of the Philobdella sp. Our investigation involved the evaluation of six distinct plant extracts, with a focus on their ability to combat leech infestation. The results of our study revealed that among the various plant extracts tested, only the ethanolic extracts of soapnut (Sapindus mukorossi) and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) exhibited notable effectiveness in combating aquatic leeches. At a concentration of 5%, these extracts displayed significant lethality, with soapnut extract achieving a remarkable kill time of 6.0 ± 0.40 min, while tobacco extract showed a kill time of 31.5 ± 1.32 min. In the case of land leeches, tobacco extract proved to be highly efficient, with an average kill time of 1.5 ± 0.28 min at a 5% concentration. Soapnut extract also exhibited effectiveness against land leeches, albeit with a slightly longer kill time of 14.25 ± 1.10 min at the same concentration. Additionally, Litsea grass oil (Litsea cubeba) demonstrated promising efficacy against both aquatic and land leeches, suggesting its potential as a versatile leech control agent. These compelling findings have significant implications for the management and control of leech infestation among Mithun populations. By identifying and harnessing the leech-repelling properties of soapnut, tobacco, and Litsea grass oil, this research offers practical and environmentally friendly solutions for mitigating the adverse effects of leech infestation. Furthermore, the insights gained from this study pave the way for the development of innovative strategies to safeguard the health and well-being of Mithun in the future.

Polyvinyl Butyral Loading with Combined Repellents Showed Effective Protection Against Leech Bites in Diverse Situations.

Background: Leech bites have long been a persistent problem for individuals engaged in outdoor activities, particularly in environments such as moors, jungles, and grasslands. Methods to prevent leech bites are anecdotal and individual, highlighting the need for the development of universal and effective repellent formulations. This study developed a novel approach for repelling leeches using combined repellent agents and a film-forming material (polyvinyl butyral), to enhance efficiency in multi-scenario applications. Material and methods: This study demonstrates that citronellal, icaridin and DDAC (didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride) showcasing active avoidance and contact toxicity on leeches. the optimized repellent formulation (MSRS, containing citronellal, icaridin and DDAC as repellent agents) enables specific sustained release properties of constituents in both air and water conditions. Results: MSRS could effectively achieve the purposes of "proactive repelling", "contact repelling", and "bite detaching". The effectiveness could last for several hours. Additionally, the hydrophobic polyvinyl butyral membrane reduced the transdermal absorption of repellent agents. Moreover, the formulation is biocompatible and environmentally friendly. Conclusions: This study provides a new feasible strategy for the prevention and removal of leech bites.

Evaluation of hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, skin irritation and allergy, and antimicrobial properties of active fraction from the ethanol extract of Chromolaena odorata (L.) R.M. King & H. Rob

Ethnopharmacological relevanceChromolaenaodorata (L.) R.M. King & H. Rob, a perennial herb, has been traditionally utilized as a herbal remedy for treating leech bites, soft tissue wounds, burn wounds, skin infections, and dento-alveolitis in tropical and subtropical regions. Aim of the studyThe present study was to analyze the active fraction of C. odorata ethanol extract and investigate its hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antimicrobial properties. Additionally, the safety of the active fraction as an external preparation was assessed through skin irritation and allergy tests. Materials and methodsThe leaves and stems of C. odorata were initially extracted with ethanol, followed by purification through AB-8 macroporous adsorption resin column chromatography to yield different fractions. These fractions were then screened for hemostatic activity in mice and rabbits to identify the active fraction. Subsequently, the hemostatic effect of the active fraction was assessed through the bleeding time of the rabbit ear artery in vivo and the coagulant time of rabbit blood in vitro. The anti-inflammatory activity of the active fraction was tested on mice ear edema induced by xylene and rat paw edema induced by carrageenin. Furthermore, the active fraction's promotion effect on wound healing was evaluated using a rat skin injury model, and skin safety tests were conducted on rabbits and guinea pigs. Lastly, antimicrobial activities against two Gram-positive bacteria (G+, Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis) and three Gram-negative bacteria (G−, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) were determined using the plate dilution method. ResultsThe ethanol extract of C. odorata leaves and stems was fractionated into 30%, 60%, and 90% ethanol eluate fractions. These fractions demonstrated hemostatic activity, with the 30% ethanol eluate fraction (30% EEF) showing the strongest effect, significantly reducing bleeding time (P < 0.05). A concentration of 1.0 g/mL of the 30% EEF accelerated cutaneous wound healing in rats on the 3rd, 6th, and 9th day post-operation, with the healing effect increasing over time. No irritation or allergy reactions were observed in rabbits and guinea pigs exposed to the 30% EEF. Additionally, the 30% EEF exhibited mild inhibitory effect on mice ear and rat paw edema, as well as antimicrobial activity against tested bacteria, with varying minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values. ConclusionsThe 30% EEF demonstrated a clear hemostatic effect on rabbit bleeding time, a slight inhibitory effect on mice ear edema and rat paw edema, significant wound healing activity in rats, and no observed irritation or allergic reactions. Antibacterial activity was observed against certain clinically isolated bacteria, particularly the G− bacteria. This study lays the groundwork for the potential development and application of C. odorata in wound treatment.

Assessment of self-perceived risk and risk rating among chemical sprayers in selected tea plantations in South India

Introduction: Chemical sprayers of the tea plantation industry perceive various degrees of risk involved in their daily work. The objective of the study was to assess self-perceived risk and to rate these risks among the pesticide sprayers working in selected tea plantations in South India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 chemical sprayers in six selected tea plantations in South India from September to October 2018 after approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee and permission from the plantations. Data was collected by structured interview schedule with the chemical sprayers and key informant interviews were conducted with their supervisors. The risks perceived by the sprayers were rated and expressed using the Risk Rating Matrix. Results: The mean age of the participants was 45.6±8.5 years and all of them were males. The most common risks encountered were leech bites (76%), other insect bites (58%) and bruises (46%). Chemical spills, splashes, slips, falls and backaches were considered as minor hazards in risk rating. Animal attacks and falls from trees were assigned the highest risk rating scores. Conclusion: Insect bite was the most common risk perceived and animal attacks attained the highest risk score. Regular supervision and monitoring of work-related risk factors can help in the reduction of common injuries thereby ensuring safety at the workplace.

Pathogenicity associated with an infestation of the marine leech parasite Pterobdella arugamensis in farmed fish.

The marine leech Pterobdella arugamensis is a hematophagous parasite, and the extent of injury to the host largely depends on the number of attached leeches. This study aimed to assess the pathogenicity of marine leeches in Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) and tiger grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus) fingerlings under laboratory conditions. Five groups of healthy Asian seabass and tiger grouper were exposed to varying numbers of marine leeches (0, 1, 10, 30, or 70 per fish) for 7 d. Infested Asian seabass and tiger grouper both showed pathological changes even with only 1 leech, manifesting as clinical signs like haemorrhages. The cumulative mortality at 7 d post-exposure (dpe) was 11 or 33% for Asian seabass infested with 1 or 10 marine leeches, respectively. Fish with 30 or 70 marine leeches showed higher rates of mortality (56%). A similar trend was seen in tiger grouper, with mortality rates reaching 78% in fish with 30 or 70 marine leeches, and 56 or 33% in fish with 10 leeches or 1 leech, respectively. Factorial analysis of mortality after 7 dpe between both species showed significant differences (2-way ANOVA p = 0.001) when exposed to varying numbers of marine leeches. The haematocrit values differed significantly between Asian seabass or tiger grouper infested with either 0 or 1 marine leech and those infested with 10, 30, or 70 marine leeches (1-way ANOVA, p = 0.0001). This suggests that marine leech infestation has a measurable impact on both species. Consequently, fish farmers should promptly address leech infestation upon discovery in their cages.

Blood recovery of wild Mekong snail-eating turtles (Malayemys subtrijuga Schlegel and Müller, 1845) in captivity from leech infestation

Blood cell counts are valuable diagnostic tools for assessing the health status of chelonians, however, reference standards for healthy blood parameters in various turtle species are lacking. In this study, forty wild female Malayemys subtrijuga were captured from ponds in Kasetsart University, and transported to laboratory for recuperating in captivity. All turtles were infected with a single leech species, Placobdelloides siamensis, with a mean of 513.7 ± 164.9 individuals per turtle, and exhibited penetrating and lesion wounds from leech infestations on both their skin and shell. Subsequently, they were cleaned and treated to eliminate ecto- and endoparasites before the recuperation period began. The turtles did not exhibit significantly differences in weight, carapace length (CL), red blood cell count (RCC), and white blood cell count (WCC) with a mean of 654.2 ± 199.9 g, 15.0 ± 2.5 cm, 327,080 ± 70,156 cells/mm3, and 73,340 ± 15,859 cells/mm3, respectively, during the initial records (week 0). However, after being maintained for 17 weeks, their health significantly improved in term of their blood parameters (RCC and WCC) and weight, except CL which remained unchanged, with a mean of 491,470 ± 16,169 cells/mm3, 18,790 ± 1496 cells/mm3, and 738.9 ± 191.5 g, respectively. Therefore, the health status obtained in this study can be used as a reference for blood parameters, weight, and recuperation period for the treatment of ill wild M. subtrijuga in captivity or as part of conservation management programs for turtles.

Antimicrobial Potential of Aqueous Extract of Giant Sword Fern and Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry Analysis.

Vibriosis and parasitic leech infestations cause the death of various farmed fish, such as groupers, hybrid groupers, sea bass, etc., in Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries. In the absence of natural control agents, aquaculture operators rely on toxic chemicals to control Vibrio infections and parasitic leeches, which can have a negative impact on the environment and health. In the present study, we investigated the antivibrio and antiparasitic activities of the aqueous extract of giant sword fern (GSF) (Nephrolepis biserrata, Nephrolepidaceae, locally known as "Paku Pedang") against four Vibrio spp. and the parasitic leech Zeylanicobdella arugamensis, as well as its metabolic composition using the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry system (UHPLC-HRMS). The data show that the aqueous extract of GSF at a concentration of 100 mg/mL exhibits potent bactericidal activity against V. parahaemolyticus with a zone of inhibition of 19.5 mm. In addition, the extract showed dose-dependent activity against leeches, resulting in the complete killing of the parasitic leeches within a short period of 11-43 min when tested at concentrations ranging from 100 to 25 mg/mL. The UHPLC-HRMS analysis detected 118 metabolites in the aqueous extract of GSF. Flavonoids were the primary metabolites, followed by phenolic, aromatic, fatty acyl, terpenoid, vitamin and steroidal compounds. Notably, several of these metabolites possess antibacterial and antiparasitic properties, including cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, apigenin, quercetin, cynaroside, luteolin, naringenin, wogonin, 6-gingerol, nicotinamide, abscisic acid, daidzein, salvianolic acid B, etc. Overall, our study shows the significant antibacterial and antiparasitic potential of the GSF aqueous extract, which demonstrates the presence of valuable secondary metabolites. Consequently, the aqueous extract is a promising natural alternative for the effective control of Vibrio infections and the treatment of parasitic leeches in aquaculture systems.

A Rare Case of Infantile Otalgia and Otorrhagia due to Alive Leech Bite

Abstract Pediatric ear infestation with leeches is a rare event; however, it can lead to serious complications. Leeches usually make their way into the human body through bathing with or drinking of contaminated water from nonhygienic sources and swimming in infested water. To our knowledge, this is the first report of leech removal from the external auditory canal in an infant. We described the case of a 3-month-old infant who presented to our institution with sudden left otalgia, otorrhagia, poor oral intake, and prolonged crying for 4 days, culminating in a single epileptic attack, drowsiness, and electrolyte disturbances. Microscopic visualization of the left ear revealed minimal oozing of blood with clots obscuring the ear canal and a live motile 3 cm leech deeply seated near the tympanic membrane. Extraction was performed. The bloody discharge ceased completely and all symptoms were relieved. Leech infestation is typically considered after other potential etiologies in infants with sudden otorrhagia and otalgia living in an endemic region. It should be considered a hidden cause of pediatric discomfort. Detailed history taking and meticulous ear examinations are vital for the prompt management to avoid unnecessary computed tomography imaging and radiation, unhelpful interventions, and delayed treatment. A diagnosis was reached and treatment performed by careful inspection and leech removal, respectively.

Prevalence, Risk Factors and Control Practices of Livestock Hirudiniasis in Mirab Abaya District, Southern Ethiopia.

Hirudiniasis is a disease in people and animals who have been infested by blood sucking leeches. In Ethiopia, it is a neglected disease, causing significant economic loss in the livestock industry. In the study area, information on livestock Hirudiniasis is very limited. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess livestock owners' awareness, knowledge, and control practices toward leech infestation, and to estimate the prevalence and associated risk factors of livestock Hirudiniasis. A cross-sectional study was carried out from February to September 2022 on domestic animals randomly selected from livestock owners of Mirab Abaya district, Southern Ethiopia. In total, 384 domestic animals were sampled and examined for the presence of leech infestation. A questionnaire survey was carried out on 150 livestock owners. This study discovered a 13.54% (52/384) overall prevalence of livestock Hirudiniasis in the study area and the highest prevalence was observed in cattle (22.14%), followed by sheep (10%), goats (8.65%), and equines (5%). Limnatis nilotica was the only leech species identified in the study area. The occurrence of livestock Hirudiniasis was significantly higher in the dry season (OR=3.16, p<0.05), around bodies of water (OR=10.88, p<0.01), in extensive production systems (OR=3.81, p<0.05), and in adult (OR=2.58, p<0.05) and poor body condition animals (OR=9, p<0.01). However, the species and sex of domestic animals were not significantly associated with Hirudiniasis. The questionnaire showed 61.33% and 35.33% of respondents had knowledge about leech infestations in domestic animals and its zoonotic impacts, respectively. Manual removal and traditional medicine are common control measures taken by livestock owners against Hirudiniasis. The present study showed that leeches were prevalent and significantly affects the health and productivity of livestock in the study area. Hence, cost-effective parasitic control measures need to be implemented to address the setback.

Identification of Morphometric and Intensity of Marine Leech Zeylanicobdella Infestation on Cantang Grouper from Brondong District, Lamongan and Mandangin Island, Madura

Cantang grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus lanceolatus) is the result of hybridization between female tiger grouper and male grouper fish which is widely cultivated because it has fast growth, easy to breed, and lower cannibalism. Cultivation of cantang grouper can be carried out in semi-intensive ponds and floating net cages (KJA) which have the potential for grouper nursery and rearing activities. One of the problems in the cultivation of cantang grouper is the presence of disease attacks caused by marine leeches Zeylanicobdella with a prevalence of up to 100% in grouper culture in floating net cages. This study aims to determine differences in species and intensity of marine leech Zeylanicobdella infestation in cantang grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus lanceolatus) from semi-intensive ponds in Brondong District, Lamongan and floating net cages (FNC) on Mandangin Island, Madura. The method used in this research is a survey and sampling is done by purposive sampling method. Cantang groupers measuring 15-20 cm from semi-intensive ponds and 20-25 cm from floating net cages each were taken as many as 35 individuals. Identification of Zeylanicobdella marine leeches using a binocular microscope and making sketches of ectoparasites with the help of a binocular microscope equipped with a lucida camera. Marine leech species found to infest the cantang grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus lanceolatus) is Zeylanicobdella arugamensis which was found on the body surface, fins, gills, and eyes. The results of statistical analysis using the Mann-Whitney U test showed that there was no significant difference (p&gt;0,05) between species and intensity of Zeylanicobdella arugamensis in cantang grouper reared in semi-intensive ponds and floating net cages. The intensity of marine leeches Zeylanicobdella arugamensis in semi-intensive ponds was in the medium category (14,74 individuals/head) and in floating net cages was in the medium category (27,74 individuals/head). The highest intensity of infestation marine leeches Zeylanicobdella arugamensis in floating net cages of 27,74 individuals/head. There was no significant difference in the intensity of Zeylanicobdella arugamensis marine leech infestation in cantang grouper both from semi-intensive ponds and floating net cages (FNC) which were included in the medium category.

Occupational Hazards Faced by Inland Fishers of Odisha State, India

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify occupational hazards and hazard control strategies adopted by inland fishers of Odisha state in India. Methods: Information on occupational hazards faced by fishers was collected by personal interviews with 90 riverine and reservoir fishers of Odisha. Through qualitative discussions with key informants and review of literature, a list of occupational hazards were prepared and classified into physical, ergonomics, psychosocial, and natural. Responses were quantified, and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results: Occupational hazards faced by fishers were physical (94%), ergonomic (75%), psychosocial (50%), and natural (34%) in nature. Physical hazards include sharp fishing instruments, uneven surfaces, high temperatures, and wet/slippery areas on the vessel along with the presence of snake/leech/crocodile/fish fin rays. About 97% of reservoir and 90% of the riverine fishers reported physical hazards leading to cuts, fractures, dehydration, headache, sunburn, snakebite, leech bite, crocodile bite, and injuries due to fish fin rays. Heavy nature of work and force exerting activities caused pain in the upper back (50%), shoulders (45%), and lower back (41%). Regarding psychosocial hazard, stress (31%), and anxiety (23%) was reported. Common reasons for this were uncertainty in fish catch and extended working hours, causing tiredness, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. Natural hazards like cyclones, floods, and excessive rain caused financial loss and damage to fishing nets and boats. Regarding personal protective equipment (PPE), floating buoys were used by 26% of riverine and 43% of reservoir fishers to avoid drowning. Conclusion: Occupational hazards in the inland fishing sector were identified as physical, ergonomic, psychosocial, and natural. No particular hazard control strategy was reported to be used. Integrating the occupational safety measures in the fisheries policies is thus needed.

Manifestation of leech infestation as severe gastrointestinal bleeding in a 3-year-old boy: a case report and review of the literature

Leeches are a class of hermaphroditic parasites that can attach to various body parts and start sucking blood. Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding due to leeches is a rare phenomenon that is more common in less developed countries. Common symptoms include melena, hematemesis, pallor, weakness, and fatigue. Due to the similar symptoms of this issue to the main differential diagnoses of GI bleeding in pediatrics, such as diarrhea, constipation, diverticulitis, esophagitis, and anal fissures, it is challenging to differentiate it from the rest. We present a three-year-old boy who was transferred to our center with hematemesis, tarry stool, and a drop in hemoglobin level. He finally was diagnosed with a leech in his stomach. In less developed counties, the inability to reach safe drinking water, swim in lakes or springs, and inadequate awareness of public health information among individuals can be risk factors for leech infestation.

Identification of morphometric and intensity of marine leech Zeylanicobdella infestation on cantang grouper from Brondong district, Lamongan and Mandangin Island, Madura

Cantang grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus lanceolatus) is the result of hybridization between female tiger grouper and male grouper fish which is widely cultivated because it has fast growth, easy to breed, and lower cannibalism. Cultivation of cantang grouper can be carried out in semi-intensive ponds and floating net cages (FNC) which have the potential for grouper nursery and rearing activities. One of the problems in the cultivation of cantang grouper is the presence of disease attacks caused by marine leeches Zeylanicobdella with a prevalence of up to 100% in grouper culture in floating net cages. This study aims to determine differences in species and intensity of marine leech Zeylanicobdella infestation in cantang grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus lanceolatus) from semi-intensive ponds in Brondong District, Lamongan and floating net cages (FNC) on Mandangin Island, Madura. The method used in this research is a survey and sampling is done by purposive sampling method. Cantang groupers measuring 15-20 cm from semi-intensive ponds and 20-25 cm from floating net cages each were taken as many as 35 individuals. Identification of Zeylanicobdella marine leeches using a binocular microscope and making sketches of ectoparasites with the help of a binocular microscope equipped with a lucida camera. Marine leech species found to infest the cantang grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus lanceolatus) is Zeylanicobdella arugamensis which was found on the body surface, fins, gills, and eyes. The results of statistical analysis using the Mann-Whitney U test showed that there was no significant difference (p > 0,05) between species and intensity of Zeylanicobdella arugamensis in cantang grouper reared in semi-intensive ponds and floating net cages. The intensity of marine leeches Zeylanicobdella arugamensis in semi-intensive ponds was in the medium category (14,74 individuals/head) and in floating net cages was in the medium category (27,74 individuals/head). The highest intensity of infestation marine leeches Zeylanicobdella arugamensis in floating net cages of 27,74 individuals/head. There was no significant difference in the intensity of Zeylanicobdella arugamensis marine leech infestation in cantang grouper both from semi-intensive ponds and floating net cages (FNC) which were included in the medium category.

Icaridin-Loading Nitrocellulose As a New Repellent Against Aquatic Leech with Waterproof and Long-Acting Properties.

Leech attachment is a common nuisance to outdoor recreationists and farmers in aquatic environments. Consequences include bleeding, infection, and, rarely, death. Methods to prevent leech attachment are anecdotal and individual; effective repellent formulations with universal applicability are needed. In this study, icaridin is demonstrated to be repellent and toxic to aquatic leech, and formulation of icaridin loading nitrocellulose (Icar-Nitr) is proposed as a new leech repellent. The nitrocellulose provided sustained drug release and waterproof properties. One optimal formulation, 10-Icar-Nitr, proved effective for leech repelling in aquatic environment. Using a rat model, the same formulation also showed removal and killing after leech attachment. The nitrocellulose reduced percutaneous absorption of icaridin, and 10-Icar-Nitr showed good biocompatibility. This study provides a potential new and practicable strategy for prevention and removal against leech attachment and bites.