Outbreak In Pakistan Research Articles

HIV outbreak in Pakistan - a wakeup call?

Human immune-deficiency virus (HIV) is a global threat with an estimated 38.6 million people being previously infected while 25 million of them have succumbed to the disease. In Pakistan, since 2004, there has been a 50-fold increase from 2700 to 130,000 in the number of people infected with HIV, while Sub- Saharan Africa alone bears the heaviest burden of HIV having 25 million infected individuals. Considering these devastating numbers, it was alarming to find that in June 2019, 751 new cases of HIV were diagnosed in Larkana, in the province of Sindh, Pakistan. Therefore, to make sure that the efforts of international institutions like The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) which are trying to effectively reduce the spread of HIV are such regions is streamlined it is extremely important to highlight some of the underlying causes which are endemic to such regions such as re-using of blades by barbers and the practice of re-using needles by un-licensed medical practitioners offering miraculous cures. It is also equally important to suggest and re-iterate possible ways in which this situation, which is rapidly worsening, can be improved.

PCR-based detection and mutation dynamics of fusion protein gene of orthoaviula viruses sequestered during 2023 field outbreaks in Pakistan

: To isolate and detect a Newcastle disease virus in commercial poultry, Molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of the confirmed isolate and Multiple sequence alignment and achievement of accession numbers against our submissions in NCBI bankit.: Genetic and antigenic diversity in the fusion protein gene of New Castle disease virus strains has been recognized and the progressive changes over sequential years indicate that it is a continuously evolving virus. The current vaccines containing conventional vaccinal strains can protect birds to a certain level but do not prevent infection and virus shedding. : The partial fusion protein gene of the 14 NDV isolates during the 2023 outbreaks from different areas of Pakistan was determined and analyzed. The antigenic protein translational segment of the fusion gene nucleotide fragment was targeted with a specifically designed primer executed 202 bp size of predictable amplicon during PCR amplification. The nucleotide sequence analysis of studied isolates showed closed similarity to the NCBI bankit numbers. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that 3 isolates belong to genotype II while, 2 isolates positions near genotype VIII of class II. The 6 isolates were located near genotype XVII and only 1 was presented on genotype V branch in calss II. Mutation analysis results revealed various mutations at nucleotide intervals and even found altered amino acids during translation. The results revealed that nucleotide mutation at various positions attributes amino acid substitution that enables wild prevailing strains to evade artificial active immunity. In such a scenario Chimeric and genotype match vaccines prepared from indigenous isolates may be useful in developing candidate vaccines to prevent virus shedding and infection. Further studies are suggested at molecular level to determine the consensus amino acid sequence for virulent, mesogenic, and avirulent prevailing NDV strains.

Molecular Characterization of Lineage-IV Peste Des Petits Ruminants Virus and the Development of In-House Indirect Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (IELISA) for its Rapid Detection”

Peste des petits ruminants (PPRV), a highly contagious viral disease, causes significant economic losses concerning sheep and goats. Recently, PPR viruses (PPRVs), have adopted new hosts and lineage IV of PPRVs represents genetic diversity within the same lineage. 350 samples, including blood, swabs, and tissues from sheep/goats, were collected during the 2020–2021 disease outbreaks in Pakistan. These samples were analysed through RT-PCR and three isolates of PPRV with accession numbers, MW600920, MW600921, and MW600922, were submitted to GenBank, based on the partial N-gene sequencing. This analysis provides a better understanding of genetic characterizations and a targeted RT-PCR approach for rapid PPRV diagnosis. An IELISA test was developed using the semi-purified antigen MW600922 isolate grown in Vero cells. The PPRV isolates currently present high divergence with the Turkish strain; conversely, similarities equivalent to 99.73% were observed for isolates collected from Pakistan. The developed indirect ELISA (IELISA) test demonstrated antibody detection rates at dilutions of 1:200 for antibodies (serum) and 1:32 for antigens. In comparison to cELISA, high specificity (85.23%) and sensitivity (90.60%) rates were observed. In contrast to the virus neutralization test (VNT), IELISA was observed to be 100% specific and 82.14% sensitive in its results. Based on these results, serological surveys conducted for PPR antibodies using IELISA can be a more effective strategy on a larger scale. Furthermore, our results demonstrate a significant breakthrough in the research in terms of cost-effectiveness and storage efficiency, and the developed IELISA test is highly recommended for use in developing countries.

The Rising Challenge: Addressing the Pink Eye (Acute Conjunctivitis) Outbreak in Pakistan.

The Rising Challenge: Addressing the Pink Eye (Acute Conjunctivitis) Outbreak in Pakistan.

Serotype and genomic diversity of dengue virus during the 2023 outbreak in Pakistan reveals the circulation of genotype III of DENV-1 and cosmopolitan genotype of DENV-2.

Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral disease, poses a significant public health challenge in Pakistan, with a significant outbreak in 2023, prompting our investigation into the serotype and genomic diversity of the dengue virus (DENV). NS-1 positive blood samples from 153 patients were referred to the National Institute of Health, Pakistan, between Julyand October 2023. Among these, 98 (64.1%) tested positive using multiplex real-time PCR, with higher prevalence among males (65.8%) and individuals aged 31-40. Serotyping revealed DENV-1 as the predominant serotype (84.7%), followed by DENV-2 (15.3%). Whole-genome sequencing of 18 samples (DENV-1 = 17, DENV-2 = 01) showed that DENV-1 (genotype III) samples were closely related (>99%) to Pakistan outbreak samples (2022), and approx. > 98% with USA (2022), Singapore and China (2016), Bangladesh (2017), and Pakistan (2019). The DENV-2 sequence (cosmopolitan genotype; clade IVA) shared genetic similarity with Pakistan outbreak sequences (2022), approx. > 99% with China and Singapore (2018-2019) and showed divergence from Pakistan sequences (2008-2013). No coinfection with dengue serotypes or other viruses were observed. Comparisons with previous DENV-1 sequences highlighted genetic variations affecting viral replication efficiency (NS2B:K55R) and infectivity (E:M272T). These findings contribute to dengue epidemiology understanding and underscore the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance for future outbreak responses in Pakistan.

A Brief Review on Foodborne Zoonosis in Pakistan with the Perspective of One Health

Background: Zoonotic diseases pose a significant public health challenge globally, with developing countries like Pakistan facing heightened risks due to various factors such as climate change, environmental degradation, and socio-economic disparities. These diseases, transmitted between animals and humans, have profound implications for healthcare systems, food safety, and public health policies. Objective: This study aims to identify the key risk factors associated with the prevalence of zoonotic diseases in Pakistan and evaluate the effectiveness of the 'One Health' approach in addressing these multifaceted challenges. Methods: A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted, focusing on zoonotic disease outbreaks in Pakistan, their associated risk factors, and the impact of integrated health strategies. Data from government reports, peer-reviewed articles, and international health organization databases were analyzed to assess the current state of zoonotic diseases in Pakistan. Results: The findings indicate that climate change, environmental issues, lack of public awareness, and socio-economic inequities are the primary drivers of zoonotic disease transmission in Pakistan. Despite some progress in disease surveillance and public health education, gaps in food and water safety practices, vector control, and environmental management persist. The 'One Health' approach has shown potential in improving cross-sectoral collaboration and enhancing disease prevention measures, yet its implementation remains inconsistent. Conclusion: Effective management of zoonotic diseases in Pakistan requires a concerted effort that encompasses improved surveillance, enhanced public awareness, and robust environmental and food safety policies. The 'One Health' approach emerges as a critical framework for fostering collaboration across human, animal, and environmental health sectors to mitigate the risks and impacts of zoonotic diseases. Keywords: Zoonotic Diseases, One Health Approach, Public Health, Pakistan, Climate Change, Environmental Health, Disease Surveillance, Food Safety, Vector Control, Socio-economic Factors.

A pediatric HIV outbreak in Pakistan.

Following reports of an outbreak of HIV infection among children in Larkana District, Pakistan, an international team investigated the extent and cause of the outbreak between April and June 2019. To investigate the incidence of HIV among children in Larkana District, Pakistan and describe the distribution of cases by time, place and person. Self-referred persons were tested for HIV using the national testing protocol. Local epidemiology of HIV was reviewed to generate hypotheses. An infection prevention and control (IPC) team conducted site visits and reviewed IPC practices. Between 25 April and 27 June 2019, a total of 30 191 persons were tested for HIV in Larkana District, and 876 of them tested positive. Of those who tested positive, 719 (82%) were children aged <15 years. Traditional skin piercing procedures and transmission from high-risk populations to children were ruled out during the investigation. Informative interviews with parents or guardians of a convenience sample of 211 children aged <15 years showed that 99% of children had an injection or infusion for medical treatment within the past 12 months. Our investigation identified lack of HIV prevalence data for the general population including tuberculosis patients and those who attended antenatal care services. Investigations indicate that unsafe healthcare practices in formal and informal healthcare settings as the most likely cause of the 2019 outbreak of HIV infection in Larkana, Pakistan. Measures should be taken to improve IPC practices at the facility level, especially in pediatric and antenatal care clinics.

First case of MPox in Pakistan: What can we learn from it?

This research paper discusses Pakistan's healthcare systems' challenges in managing the monkeypox outbreak in Pakistan. Monkeypox is a zoonotic viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. The World Health Organization declared it a global public health emergency due to the surge in cases worldwide. Pakistan reported its first verified case in April 2023, necessitating immediate response. This correspondence emphasizes on early detection, rapid diagnostic testing, and prompt treatment to limit the virus's transmission. Prevention strategies such as vaccination and travel restrictions on suspected cases are crucial for containment. Lessons from controlling the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic can inform strategies for monkeypox. The recent outbreak of monkeypox has presented challenges to healthcare systems. Therefore, a coordinated approach involving healthcare providers, government organizations, and the public is crucial in controlling the monkeypox outbreak. Further research is necessary to understand the virus and develop effective interventions for future outbreaks.

The Naegleria fowleri outbreak in Pakistan: an emerging threat due to climate change

The Naegleria fowleri outbreak in Pakistan: an emerging threat due to climate change

Adoption of M-Commerce Amongst Pakistani Consumers: By Using TAM with Effect of Social Influence and Mobile Self-Efficacy

M-commerce, or mobile commerce, has gained popularity due to its expanded possibilities over Electronic commerce, which has been growing at a far faster pace because to the Covid-19 outbreak in Pakistan. The utilization of wireless technologies has increased in the M-commerce sector. There are more mobile phone users than personal computer users. In spite of Pakistan's apparent interest in M-commerce as a means of trade, nothing is known about the country's citizens' desire to utilize this new wireless electronic platform. Thus, customers' behavioral intention to use m-commerce has been investigated using an improved technology acceptance model (TAM) that takes into account the consequences of social influence and mobile self-efficacy. The sample size for this study was 220 people from Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Multan, which is a statistically significant number. A variety of statistical techniques, including factor and reliability analysis as well as correlation and regression, were used to examine the data by using SPSS version 19. Customers' attitudes toward adopting M-commerce are positively influenced by their perceptions of its utility, ease of use, social influence, and personal efficacy on their mobile devices, according to this study, which also found a link between these factors and their behavioral intent to use M-commerce.

Crimean-Congo Hemorragic Fever Outbreak in Pakistan: Emerging Threat.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) was first recognized in 1944 in the Crimean Peninsula, CCHF virus is the leading cause of hemorrhagic fever in the world. It is a tick borne viral disease of genus Nairovirus, family Bunyaviridae. Ixodid tick is the main reservoir of the virus spreading across globally in more than 40 countries. Average incubation period is 5-7 days of the virus. The onset of symptoms are acute and includes fever, myalgia, photophobia, dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, hepatomegaly and severe bleeding.

Circulation of Mumps Virus Genotype G in Pakistan During 2023 Outbreak

Aim: Despite recurring mumps outbreaks in Pakistan, the virus's genomic diversity remains unavailable. This study explores the mumps genomic diversity in the 2023 Islamabad outbreak. Methods: During January and February 2023, 32 buccal/throat swabs were collected from suspected mumps cases. 15 tested mumps virus (MuV)-positive via RT-PCR. Positive samples underwent partial SH gene sequencing; a subset (n = 10) was whole-genome sequenced using Illumina MiSeq. Results: Phylogenetic analysis identified genotype-G, sharing 95.57–98.73% homology with Japanese/Canadian isolates. Whole-genome-sequencing (n = 2) confirmed genotype-G, 99% similar to Sheffield/Iowa strain. HN region displayed 95.01–95.36% identity with Jeryl Lynn, with genotype G-specific mutations, except T265I. Conclusion: This is the first report of partial and whole-genome sequencing of MuV from Pakistan, highlighting the necessity for genomic surveillance and vaccine integration.

Molecular characterization of lumpy skin disease virus from recent outbreaks in Pakistan.

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a contagious viral transboundary disease listed as a notifiable disease by the World Organization of Animal Health (WOAH). The first case of this disease was reported in Pakistan in late 2021. Since then, numerous outbreaks have been documented in various regions and provinces across the country. The current study primarily aimed to analyze samples collected during LSD outbreaks in cattle populations in the Sindh and Punjab provinces of Pakistan. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using partial sequences of the GPCR, p32, and RP030 genes. Collectively, the LSDV strains originating from outbreaks in Pakistan exhibited a noticeable clustering pattern with LSDV strains reported in African, Middle Eastern, and Asian countries, including Egypt, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, India, China, and Thailand. The precise reasons behind the origin of the virus strain and its subsequent spread to Pakistan remain unknown. This underscores the need for further investigations into outbreaks across the country. The findings of the current study can contribute to the establishment of effective disease control strategies, including the implementation of a mass vaccination campaign in disease-endemic countries such as Pakistan.

Exploring the Impact of Ownership Structure and CEO Power on CSR and Firm Performance in Pakistan: A Comparative Study of Pre, Post and Covid Era as an Emerging Economy

The primary purpose of this research is to acquire a profound comprehension of the impacts of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on the operations of firms and on society as a whole, with Pakistan serving as the focal point of the research. This study's objective is to determine whether or not there is a moderating effect of CEO power on the relationships that exist between CSR, ownership concentration, and efficient business practices. In-depth research has been conducted on fifty different non-financial enterprises in Pakistan to see how well they performed before, during, and after the Covid-19 Pandemic. On the data that has been gathered, descriptive statistics and regression analysis have been carried out with the assistance of SPSS. The research found that in the middle of the Covid-19 outbreak in Pakistan, the degree of authority held by CEOs had a major impact on the dynamics of the economy. The authority of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) has a significant impact on the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the performance of an organization. Even in a developing country like Pakistan, the present study highlights the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the positive influence it may have on the bottom line of a firm. The purpose of this study is to investigate the beneficial benefits that corporate social responsibility (CSR) has on society, with a particular emphasis on emerging countries such as Pakistan. This research serves as a useful guide by emphasising how important CSR is for linking together the success of businesses and the well-being of the society in which they operate.

Exploring the Impact of Ownership Structure and CEO Power on CSR and Firm Performance in Pakistan: A Comparative Study of Pre, Post and Covid Era as an Emerging Economy

The primary purpose of this research is to acquire a profound comprehension of the impacts of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on the operations of firms and on society as a whole, with Pakistan serving as the focal point of the research. This study's objective is to determine whether or not there is a moderating effect of CEO power on the relationships that exist between CSR, ownership concentration, and efficient business practices. In-depth research has been conducted on fifty different non-financial enterprises in Pakistan to see how well they performed before, during, and after the Covid-19 Pandemic. On the data that has been gathered, descriptive statistics and regression analysis have been carried out with the assistance of SPSS. The research found that in the middle of the Covid-19 outbreak in Pakistan, the degree of authority held by CEOs had a major impact on the dynamics of the economy. The authority of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) has a significant impact on the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the performance of an organization. Even in a developing country like Pakistan, the present study highlights the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the positive influence it may have on the bottom line of a firm. The purpose of this study is to investigate the beneficial benefits that corporate social responsibility (CSR) has on society, with a particular emphasis on emerging countries such as Pakistan. This research serves as a useful guide by emphasising how important CSR is for linking together the success of businesses and the well-being of the society in which they operate.

Naegleria fowleri outbreak in Pakistan: unveiling the crisis and path to recovery.

The outbreak of Naegleria fowleri in Pakistan presents a significant public health concern due to its high fatality rate and limited treatment options. This review explores the impact of the outbreak on communities and the challenges faced in combating the disease. It evaluates available treatment options and highlights the need for early diagnosis and intervention. The study proposes recommendations to improve public health preparedness, including public awareness campaigns, enhanced healthcare infrastructure, and robust water surveillance systems. Collaboration between research institutions and public health organizations is emphasized to develop effective outbreak response strategies.

Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever: A Potentially Fatal Outbreak in Pakistan

Africa, the Balkans, parts of the Middle East, and Asia are endemic for tick-borne Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF)1. The disease is more common in persons infected with Hyalomma ticks or who come in contact with sick cattle tissues after slaughter2. The virus, which has a high case-fatality rate, can cause epidemics in anyone who comes across infected bodily fluids and has caused health facility outbreaks.3The four illness load in Pakistan includes transmissible, not transmissible, mental disorders, and accidents. Additionally, some rising health problems are straining limited national healthcare resources. A good instance is Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF).CCHF-endemic countries fight the infection. A World Health Organisation statement stated that roughly 212 instances, 27 of them life-threatening, were documented in Iraq in 2022 among different governorates. CCHF-free nations still test ticks for the disease4. The Ministry of Health in France found the very first CCHF in Hyalomma ticks from livestock in the southern Eastern Pyrenees5. Ticks have been reported in the Mediterranean coast, especially Corsica. Spain has documented domestically acquired illnesses in humans since 2016, including in medical practitioners6. The first documented CCHF patient in Pakistan was identified in 1976, with the following isolated instances and epidemics7.

Dreadful infectious disease outbreaks threaten flood-ravaged pakistan: short communication.

A rise in the incidence of water-borne, communicable illnesses, and viral outbreaks in Pakistan follows periods of heavy rainfall. Due to climate change, floods and droughts have had devastating effects on human health by facilitating the spread of infectious illnesses including cholera, malaria, typhoid, dengue fever, and viral hepatitis A. Food instability, starvation, malnutrition, and a lack of potable water are only some of the indirect effects of flooding on health. Recently, one of the worst floods in history devastated Pakistan, affecting more than 333 million people along with a significant portion of the nation submerged. Malaria, dengue fever, and other ailments are on the rise in Pakistan, threatening to overwhelm the country's healthcare infrastructure. There is an urgent need for preventative measures in Pakistan to cope with dreadful outbreaks.

Molecular Epidemiology of Dengue Virus Circulating During 2021 Outbreak in Pakistan

Aim: The current study aimed to identify prevalent dengue serotypes during a major outbreak in 2021 in Pakistan. Materials &amp; methods: From September-November 2021, 373 serum samples from different provinces were tested by RT-PCR for serotype identification, followed by partial sequence analysis of selected dengue-positive samples. Results: Out of 373 samples, 273 (73%) were positive for dengue virus infection with male predominance (61.9%). Complete predominance of DENV-2 serotype (99%) and a single case of DENV-1 was observed. Sequencing data revealed the presence of a cosmopolitan genotype within the DENV-2 Pakistani isolates. Conclusion: This study highlights the persistent predominance of DENV-2 during the 2021 outbreak, suggesting a need to improve surveillance strategies and vector breeding control programs in Pakistan.

Dengue outbreak in Pakistan: Impact on global mass gathering events?

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