Personal Hygiene Practices Research Articles

Serological Evidence of Epstein-Barr Virus Capsid Antigen (EB-CA) Among Pregnant Women from Cottage Hospital, Ilorin

Study’s Excerpt/Novelty This study reveals a significant Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) prevalence among pregnant women attending Cottage Hospital in Ilorin, with 95.69% of participants testing positive for anti-EBV IgG antibodies. Notably, the highest prevalence was observed among younger women, those in the first trimester, individuals from polygamous families, and those with lower educational levels. These findings underscore the need for increased community awareness and improved personal hygiene practices to reduce EBV infection rates and associated congenital defects. Full Abstract Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), a member of the Herpesvirus family, has been observed to be increasing among pregnant women, leading to congenital defects. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of EBV infection among pregnant women attending Cottage Hospital in Ilorin. A total of 45 pregnant women were tested, and questionnaires were administered to volunteer subjects after obtaining their informed consent. Approximately 5 ml of blood was aseptically collected via venous puncture from the antecubital fossa and dispensed into EDTA containers. Plasma was separated after centrifugation of the blood, and the obtained plasma was screened for anti-EBV IgG antibodies using ELISA techniques. Results revealed that 43 subjects (95.69%) tested positive for EBV, while 2 (4.4%) tested negative. Among different age groups, women aged 19-20, 26-30, and 36-40 showed a prevalence rate of 100%, with the lowest prevalence of 88.8% recorded among the 31-35 age group. Regarding the pregnancy stage, 100% was seen among first-trimester participants, while the lowest prevalence of 92.3% was noted during the third trimester. The majority of respondents were married, with those from polygamous families and single individuals showing a prevalence of 100%. Participants with primary and secondary education levels displayed the highest prevalence, while those with tertiary education had the lowest. Muslims had the highest prevalence, whereas Christians had the lowest. Moreover, regarding occupation, the unemployed, artisans, and students had the highest prevalence, while civil servants and businesswomen had the lowest prevalence. In conclusion, the results from this study highlight a notable prevalence of EBV (IgG) antibodies among pregnant women. These outcomes emphasize the necessity of raising awareness in the community about the implications of EBV infection and the Significance of maintaining proper personal hygiene to mitigate the chances of infection and spread

Specific Personal Hygiene Procedures and Practices in Food Handlers—A Cross-Sectional Study in Butcher and Fishmonger Shops in Almada

Good manufacturing practices play an important role in obtaining safe food and preventing foodborne diseases. To achieve this goal, food handlers must receive appropriate training to be aware of their responsibilities. In this work, compliance with specific personal hygiene requirements by food handlers was assessed in a cross-sectional study of traditional small retail establishments, namely butcher (n = 56) and fishmonger (n = 17) shops in Almada, Portugal. Food handlers (n = 140, of which 113 worked in butcher shops, and 27 worked in fishmonger shops) were interviewed for data collection, and retail establishments were audited considering specific hygiene requisites. In fishmonger shops, most food handlers are women (89%), aged 18 to 45 years (70%), with a high school degree, having worked for less than 5 years in this activity, while in butcher shops most food handlers are men (90%) over 45 years old (58%), with a basic education level, and more than 26 years of experience. Most food handlers (>95%) attended recent food safety and hygiene training courses and were able to recognize that hand sanitizers cannot replace a proper hand wash, and to identify Staphylococcus aureus transmission routes to food. However, approximately 23% of retail establishments failed to provide hot water in the handwashing basin and exhibited improper placement of handwashing instructions. Furthermore, these establishments did not implement corrective actions following non-conforming microbiological results of hand hygiene monitoring. These findings reinforce the need for consistent management commitment, and for providing food handlers with regular training, which is crucial for maintaining a strong food safety and hygiene culture in these traditional small retail establishments.

Personal Hygiene Practices of Badjaos in Surigao City, Philippines

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

Nutritional care practices for children from 6 to 24 months old by Cham ethnic mothers

Background: This study aims to explore the nutritional care practices for children from 6 to 24 months old by Cham ethnic mothers in Tan Chau town, An Giang province in 2018. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on Cham ethnic children aged from 6 to 24 months and their mothers living in Tan Chau town, An Giang province. Results: The rate of mothers practicing proper and sufficient prenatal care during pregnancy is 74.4%; the rate of mothers engaging in lighter work than before pregnancy is 64.2%; the rate of mothers eating more than before pregnancy is 72.2%; the rate of mothers taking iron supplements during pregnancy is high at 85%. Practices regarding the timing of weaning children are not good, with 36.8% of mothers weaning children at the wrong time. Practices for feeding children supplementary foods are relatively good: 90.7% of mothers feed their children at the right time, however, the rate of mothers providing children with a complete range of food groups is only 23.0%. Maternal care practices for sick children have many shortcomings, with 81.7% of mothers feeding children incorrectly when they have diarrhea, and only 38.4% of children receiving oral rehydration solution (ORS) when they have diarrhea. Personal hygiene practices of the mother and child care are not good, with 24.3% of mothers not properly performing hand hygiene for themselves and their children. Conclusions: We need to strengthen propaganda and consulting work for each group of subjects, especially the Cham ethnic people, on nutritional care practices for children from 6-24 months old.

Exploring the Interplay of Food Security, Safety, and Psychological Wellness in the COVID-19 Era: Managing Strategies for Resilience and Adaptation.

The global population surge presents a dual challenge and opportunity in the realms of food consumption, safety, and mental well-being. This necessitates a projected 70% increase in food production to meet growing demands. Amid this backdrop, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates these issues, underscoring the need for a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between food consumption patterns and mental health dynamics during this crisis. Mitigating the spread of COVID-19 hinges upon rigorous adherence to personal hygiene practices and heightened disease awareness. Furthermore, maintaining stringent food quality and safety standards across both public and private sectors is imperative for safeguarding public health and containing viral transmission. Drawing upon existing research, this study delves into the pandemic's impact on mental health, food consumption habits, and food safety protocols. Through a comprehensive analysis, it aims to elucidate the nuanced relationship among food, food safety, and mental well-being amid the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting synergistic effects and dynamics that underpin holistic human welfare. Our study offers a novel approach by integrating psychological wellness with food security and safety. In conceiving this review, we aimed to comprehensively explore the intricate interplay among food security, safety, and psychological wellness amid the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our review is structured to encompass a thorough examination of existing research, synthesizing insights into the multifaceted relationships among food consumption patterns, mental health dynamics, and food safety protocols during the crisis. Our findings provide valuable insights and practical recommendations for enhancing food security and psychological well-being, thus supporting both academic research and real-world applications in crisis management and policy development.

Food safety knowledge, hygiene practices among food handlers, and microbiological quality of animal side dishes in contract catering

Food poisoning is a major concern in catering services in Indonesia, with multiple outbreaks being reported in factories and offices. This study aimed to assess the level of food safety knowledge, personal hygiene practices, and microbiological quality of chicken and egg dishes at three catering companies in the Yogyakarta Special Region of Indonesia, which provide mass catering for workers. From March to July 2019, a cross-sectional study was conducted using validated questionnaires, observation checklists, and microbiological tests to measure the parameters of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Pearson and Rank-Spearman correlation tests, as well as independent sample t-tests, were used for statistical analysis. The study revealed that 75% of the subjects had limited knowledge of food safety, with only 5% having a good understanding. Furthermore, 95% of the subjects had not received any food safety training, resulting in poor hygiene practices among the food handlers. Although there was no significant correlation between food safety knowledge and hygiene practices (p>0.05), certain practices, such as appearance and hand washing, were significantly correlated with age. Employment duration was negatively correlated with food safety knowledge (p=0.027; r=-0.494). While chicken samples were free from E. coli and S. aureus, one egg sample was found to be contaminated with E. coli. The research emphasizes the significance of providing frequent food safety training to food handlers, ideally every year. Additionally, it recommends conducting larger sample studies and collaborating with government agencies for future research.

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY TO ASSESS THE PATTERN OF SELF-MEDICATION USED FOR DIARRHEA AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS IN TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL OF CENTRAL INDIA

Objective: The objective of the study is to assess the drug usage pattern, personal hygiene, and sanitation practices among day scholars and hosteller medical students. Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted at MGM Medical College and M.Y. Hospital, Indore. Undergraduate and postgraduate medical students who experienced episodes of diarrhea in the past 6 months were included in the study. Diarrhea occurring due to organic causes was excluded. Data were collected using a Google or physical form and were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: 254 students who suffered from diarrhea in the past 6 months participated in the study, out of which 56% were hostellers. Commonly used drugs were ofloxacin, metronidazole, etc. 50.2% of them took self-medication; the majority of them were hostellers. Students were found to eat outside at least once a week. Personal hygiene and sanitation were more compromised among hostellers than day scholars. Conclusion: Personal hygiene and sanitation practices should be improved among medical students, especially hostel students. These students, despite being from medical backgrounds, still take irrational medication. Therefore, there is a need for increased awareness regarding drug usage, and self-medication should be discouraged.

Bibliometric Analysis of Community Acceptance towards Reusable Diapers

This research aims to elucidate the development of studies on public acceptance of reusable diapers and their relevance. A quantitative descriptive approach and bibliometric analysis were employed to achieve this objective. Data were collected from Semantic Scholar, Crossref, and Google Scholar. The collected articles were subsequently processed and analyzed using VOSviewer. The research results reveal that four primary topics are pertinent to society's acceptance of reusable diapers: societal behavior and acceptance of disposable diapers and measures to address diaper rash; causes of diaper rash in newborns and the severity index of dermatitis; prevention of diaper rash in infants through personal hygiene practices; and the risks associated with diaper use in toddlers. The transition from disposable to reusable diapers is crucial due to its significant environmental and health benefits, particularly in reducing the incidence of diaper rash. The study implies further research on mothers' acceptance of reusable diapers in Indonesia, encompassing knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.

Epidemiology, pathogenicity, risk factors, and management of Helicobacter pylori infection in Saudi Arabia.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gastric microbial pathogen that infects approximately half of the global population. This bacterium significantly contributes to various gastroduodenal diseases, including chronic active gastritis, peptic ulcerations, and malignant transformations. This review focuses on epidemiology, pathogenicity, virulence genes, risk factors, and management of H. pylori infection, specifically within the context of Saudi Arabia. The results presented here are grounded in studies conducted in Saudi Arabia, contrasting with mere bibliographic reviews of findings from other countries. H. pylori infection has been observed in Saudi Arabia, with substantial differences in the prevalence, ranging between 10-96% among various studied populations. Several risk factors for H. pylori infection have been identified, encompassing socioeconomic status, medical history, personal hygiene, and behavioral practices. Among the virulence genes harbored by H. pylori, cytotoxin-associated gene A (cagA) and vacuolating cytotoxin (vacA) are most common, with their presence correlating with the pathogenicity and clinical manifestations of the associated diseases. A range of invasive and non-invasive diagnostic assays have been utilized to identify H. pylori infection, with their employment being influenced by factors like availability, cost, patient age, gastric symptoms, and the specifics of clinical information sought. While detection methods like the H. pylori stool antigen test and the urea breath test offer more accuracy and speed, culturing remains indispensable for determining the antimicrobial susceptibility profile. The emergence of resistant strains across varying regional settings poses a significant challenge to treatment endeavors, necessitating an assessment of local antimicrobial resistance rates prior to formulating treatment strategies. The findings of this review highlight the importance of continuous implementation of screening, control, and prevention of H. pylori infection to combat the spreading infection and other related complications.

Assessment of Intestinal Parasitic Infection and Personal Hygiene Practice Among School Children in A Primary School in A Village in Jakarta, Indonesia

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPI) are still among developing countries' most prevalent parasitic infections. IPI is closely linked to nutrition, personal hygiene, environmental sanitation, income, climate, and education. Aims/Objectives: To assess the IPI and personal hygiene status among school children in the flood-prone area in Jakarta, Indonesia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a government primary school in South Jakarta, Indonesia, involving 157 students. A structured questionnaire was developed to assess the personal hygiene behavior of the students. A physical examination of the nail fingers was conducted as well. Feces samples were collected from each student and examined using direct smear techniques to identify intestinal parasite infection. Results: The prevalence of IPI was 38.2% in single and mixed infections. Intestinal parasites recorded in this study were Blastocystis hominis, Giardia lamblia, Trichuris trichiura, hookworm eggs, and non-pathogen protozoa Entamoeba coli. There is no significant difference between the prevalence of IPI with footwear usage, nail-cutting once a week (p=0.718), handwashing before the meal (p=0.688), handwashing after defecations (p=0.618); however, there is a significant difference between nail cleanliness and IPI (p=0.003). Conclusions: The prevalence of IPI in these school children was high and required interventions like health education and action on nail and hand hygiene behavior from school personnel or teachers.

Risk Factors for Helminth Infection in Farmers : Literature Review

Worm infection is a serious health problem in many countries, especially in areas with poor sanitation. The factors that contribute to worm infection can vary, including environmental factors and human behavior. This study aims to collect and analyze relevant literature on the factors of exposure that affect worm infection in humans. Literature search sources include Google Scholar, SpringerLink, PubMed, and ScienceDirect that were published between 2019-2023 and discuss infection exposure agents, organic substances, and the relation between personal hygiene and intestinal worm infection. The research design can be qualitative or quantitative, involving observation, randomized control trials, and case studies. This study involves a population of farmers and uses articles in Indonesian and/or English. The literature review result indicate the importance of personal hygiene, good sanitation, and access to clean water in preventing Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) infections among farmers. Awareness of personal hygiene practices and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) need to be improved to reduce the risk of infection. Furthermore, sanitation and water sources improvement, as well as specific education, are needed to ensure the health of farmers living in rural, urban, and peri-urban areas. The role of nurses in preventing worm infections among farmers in rural areas includes education on sanitation, hygiene practices, and the use of protective equipment. Nurses also need to conduct regular health monitoring, collaborate with other healthcare teams, and improve communication with local health institutions. They should stay updated with research developments and implement the findings in the practice of care and education for farmers and the community.

Personal Hygiene as Scabies Factors Incidence in the Institute Rehabilitation Center of the Vagrants, Scrounger and Mental Disabilities in South Sumatra Region

Introduction: Scabies, caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, is a highly contagious skin infestation. Poor personal hygiene often contributes to its prevalence. This study aims to identify specific aspects of personal hygiene that influence the incidence of scabies among residents of the Institute Rehabilitation Center of The Vagrants, Scroungers, and Individuals with Mental Disabilities in the South Sumatra Region. Methods: This observational-analytic study employed a case-control design. Data collection involved clinical records, observations, and questionnaire-based interviews. A total of 160 occupants, comprising 80 cases and 80 controls, were selected through simple random sampling. Data analysis utilized chi-square test and multiple logistic regression tests. Results and Discussion: Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations (p-value = 0.000) between scabies incidence and bathing habits, cleanliness of mattresses and bed linen, cleanliness of clothing, and open defecation behavior. Multiple logistic regression indicated that open defecation behavior (OR = 56.336; 95% CI = 17.281 – 158.500) was the primary personal hygiene factor influencing scabies incidence. Thus, maintaining proper open defecation practices is crucial for residents' hygiene and health. Conclusion: Poor personal hygiene practices, including inadequate bathing habits, unclean bedding, dirty clothing, and open defecation behavior, contribute to the occurrence of scabies. Effective education and counseling by healthcare professionals are essential for promoting better hygiene practices among residents.

Conductas de riesgo asociadas al manejo de plaguicidas químicos por parte de agricultores del norte de Sinaloa, México

The predominant agriculture in the state of Sinaloa is conventional agriculture, which implies intensive use of pesticides and exposure of many farmers to harmful chemicals. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify those risk behaviors in farmers from northern Sinaloa, Mexico when handling pesticides. Surveys were conducted with farmers from the populations located in Irrigation District 075, including 40 questions related to occupational health and personal hygiene practices. Results show that the majority of farmers (86%) know the health risks to which they are exposed by inadequate handling of pesticides. However, due to economic constraints and lack of knowledge and inspection by authorities, they do not use adequate personal protective equipment and their hygiene practices are inadequate. Consequently, it is essential to develop strategic plans to reduce the risk of intoxication by agrochemicals in rural communities, considering their direct impact on the environment.

Infectious Complications From Body Piercings—A Narrative Review

Abstract Body piercings are common methods of self-expression and cultural identity and have existed for millennia. However, breaching the dermis and insertion of a foreign object entails risk, including infectious complications. Although serious complications are typically rare, especially in environments where proper piercing techniques and sanitation are practiced, the general public and healthcare professionals may be unaware of the risk for these complications. Serious complications may include tissue necrosis, endocarditis, and brain abscesses. Selection of a proper piercing locale and professional, and the use of personal hygiene practices and piercing site care can go a long way toward preventing infections. Avoidance of especially risky piercing sites or techniques may also be advisable.

Impact of an Oral Health Education Program on the Oral Health Literacy of Refugees

Inadequate comprehension of healthcare information contributes to poor health outcomes. Ethnic minorities are one of the populations most affected by low health and oral health literacy (OHL). The hypothesis of the current study was that an oral health education program (OHEP) can improve the OHL, oral health awareness and behaviors of refugees. We also hypothesized that there will be a difference between OHL in English and native language in the Pre-intervention phase. Fifty-two adult refugees participated in an educational program that included a comprehensive and culturally sensitive PowerPoint presentation and hands-on learning activities on oral health topics. The study used a cross-sectional pre-post study design. Before the program (Pre-intervention group), participants completed 2 surveys: Sociodemographic Survey and Oral Health Perceptions of Refugees in a bilingual format, and the Estimate of Oral Health Literacy-Bilingual40 (EOHL-BL40) in English, and in the participants’ native language. Immediately after an OHEP (Post-intervention group), participants completed the EOHL-BL40 survey in English only. Two weeks after OHEP (Follow-up intervention), participants completed again the Sociodemographic Survey and Oral Health Perceptions of Refugees and the Estimate of Oral Health Literacy-Bilingual40 (EOHL-BL40) in English only. The mean percentage of words understood on Pre-intervention EOHL-BL40 survey were significantly higher in native languages (47.3% ±3.7%) compared with survey in English (15.3% ±1.2%, P < 0.001). Post-intervention scores, immediately after educational program, were higher (28.6% ±2.4%), P < 0.001) for survey in English compared with the Pre-intervention (15.3% ±1.2%). The follow-up (2 weeks later) scores (25.5% ±2.4) were slightly lower than Post-intervention but still significantly higher (P < 0.001) than Pre-intervention. Results for both Sociodemographic Survey and Oral Health Perceptions of Refugees surveys were similar: the OHEP positively affected oral health awareness and oral health behaviors. Results of the study suggested that OHEP may improve oral health literacy, oral health awareness, and personal oral hygiene practices of refugees.

A new custom-made bivalve brace for pectus carinatum in children and adolescents: preliminary promising experience of 140 patients from a tertiary center.

International research suggests that poor patient compliance is the main cause of tutor failures in the context of potential novel orthopedic bivalve braces for conservative treatment of pectus carinatum. Our entire experimental study is based on the hypothesis that a rigid bivalve brace that patients can accept could solve the main problem associated with the conservative approach-poor compliance. The hypothesis was to reduce the thickness and weight of the classic bivalve brace to ensure concealment and make it sustainable enough to be worn several hours a day without compromising its therapeutic efficacy. The research was conducted from January 2020 to December 2022 to ensure follow-up of all participants for at least 6 months. In 36 months, 140 patients with pectus carinatum were assessed and conservatively treated with the studied guardian to analyze the therapeutic efficacy of the bivalve brace and patient compliance. From the initial visit, the parents and patient were informed that this is a 2-year therapeutic course during which the bivalve brace should be worn at least 23 h a day (with 1 h of abstinence per day for routine personal hygiene practices). Compliance is the key to therapy success, and the duration of treatment depends on patient adherence. The exceptional effectiveness of the experimental brace was confirmed by both the questionnaire from the patients (with an average satisfaction rate of 8.9/10) and an assessment of the therapy's results by a properly selected medical committee (with a VAS scale satisfaction of 7.2/10 for symmetric forms and 7.1/10 for asymmetric ones). In conclusion, the analyzed data confirmed the research hypotheses. First, none of the 140 patients had cardiovascular diseases directly related to their condition, confirming that pectus carinatum is a pathology of a purely aesthetic nature. Second, a cheap, lightweight, and easily obscured brace significantly improved patient compliance. Along with this, the social relevance of the aesthetic aspect today may be an important factor in motivating the study cohort to adhere to therapy. In the past, esthetics and appearance were less relevant at the social level, which may have contributed to the high abandonment and reduced compliance rates of the many studies in the literature.

IJCM_291A: Hygiene Practices Among Food Handlers in a Hospital Setting: A Case Study from District Hospital Parbhani

Background: The role of food handlers in maintaining food safety, especially in healthcare settings, cannot be overstated. Poor hygiene practices can lead to foodborne illnesses, which are particularly dangerous in a hospital environment where patients may have compromised immune systems. Ensuring high standards of personal hygiene among food handlers is crucial in healthcare settings to prevent foodborne illnesses. This study focuses on the hygiene practices of food handlers in a hospital environment. Objective: To assess the personal hygiene practices of food handlers in District Hospital Parbhani. The study aims to identify the adherence level to hygiene standards and pinpoint areas for potential improvement in food safety practices. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was employed, targeting food handlers in District Hospital Parbhani. The survey utilized a structured questionnaire to collect data on various aspects of personal hygiene, including hand hygiene, personal cleanliness, and safe food handling methods. The participants were also interviewed to understand their knowledge and attitudes towards food safety. The data collected was then systematically an analysed to identify patterns, strengths, and areas needing improvement in the hygiene practices of the food handlers. Results: In our study at District Hospital Parbhani, among the 126 food handlers, a notable 45.24% were below 30 years of age. When assessing hygiene practices, 74% of the handlers had clean nails, and approximately 50% practiced hand washing with soap and water after using the toilet. The cleanliness of kitchen areas was maintained by 73% of the establishments, with 62% using soap and detergents for cleaning purposes. Conclusion: The study highlights the critical role of rigorous personal hygiene practices among food handlers in healthcare settings. It recommends ongoing training and periodic evaluations at District Hospital Parbhani to sustain and enhance these hygiene standards, thereby ensuring the health and safety of patients and staff.

IJCM_398A: A cross-sectional study on morbidity patterns and health behavior among construction workers in Mangalore

Introduction: The construction industry is one of the most stable growing industries in the developing world. In India, it is the largest economic activity after agriculture. Since it is a labor-intensive industry, it consists of organized, unorganized, skilled, and unskilled labor. Morbidity is departure from a state of physical or psychological well-being, resulting from disease, illness, injury, or sickness, especially where the affected individual is aware of his or her condition which is more common among these workers. This study aims to assess the morbidity Pattern and health behavior among construction workers in a coastal block of Karnataka state. Methodology: This community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 manual labor workers at different construction sites in Mangalore. Data was collected using interview schedule and analyzed using SPSS version 24. Results were expressed as proportions using appropriate tables and graphs. Chi-square test will be used and P &lt; 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: In the study majority were males aged 19-29 years, Hindu by religion 84%, and unmarried, with minimum of primary educational qualification and work experience of 1-5 years. The most prevalent morbidity was Musculo skeletal disorders which manifest as constant arthralgia, myalgia followed by ophthalmic manifestation like refractive errors. Hypertension was notable, with communicable diseases like Malaria being common morbidities. Tobacco and alcohol consumption were prevalent, but knowledge on preventive measures against mosquito bites and personal hygiene practices were limited. Safety precautions at construction sites were evident as it is mandatory. Conclusions: The study highlighted prevalent morbidity patterns among construction workers in Mangalore, which seek immediate remedial measures. Improving awareness and intervention regarding the health risks associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption pose significant challenges but are crucial for enhancing workers’ well-being aa well as hygiene practices.

Food safety and personal hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Jordanian mothers in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey

Background and Aim: Foodborne illnesses have shaken mothers' defense worldwide because poor knowledge and unsafe food handling practices can jeopardize their children. In Jordan, there are no reliable data on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of mothers regarding food safety when the COVID-19 pandemic occurs. Therefore, this study evaluated Jordanian mothers' understanding, beliefs, and behaviors by examining their KAPs during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study on food safety KAPs of mothers living in Jordan following the COVID-19 pandemic. A reliable and accurate survey with 55 questions was distributed among mothers through social media. A total of 376 mothers completed the questionnaire. Results: The results showed a remarkable awareness among the participants of how to keep food safe. However, there is still a significant gap in the implementation of this information in everyday life. This research emphasizes the need for focused interventions in the context of COVID-19 to bridge the gap between Jordanian mothers' KAPs on food safety and personal cleanliness. Conclusion: Efforts should be made, such as public health campaigns and educational programs, to empower mothers, guaranteeing a consistent and comprehensive approach to food safety and personal hygiene in families. These results provide important insights for policymakers and health professionals who want to improve public health initiatives and community resilience during public health crises. Keywords: food safety, foodborne illness, Jordan, knowledge, attitudes and practices, personal hygiene.

Mathematical approaches to controlling COVID-19: optimal control and financial benefits

The global population has suffered extensively as an effect of the coronavirus infection, with the loss of many lives, adverse financial consequences, and increased impoverishment. In this paper, we propose an example of the non-linear mathematical modeling of the COVID-19 phenomenon. Using the fixed point theorem, we established the solution's existence and unicity. We demonstrate how, under the framework, the basic reproduction number can be redefined. The different equilibria of the model are identified, and their stability analyses are carefully examined. According to our argument, it is illustrated that there is a single optimal control that can be used to reduce the expense of the illness load and applied processes. The determination of optimal strategies is examined with the aid of Pontryagin's maximum principle. To support the analytical results, we perform comprehensive digital simulations using the Runge-Kutta 4th-order. The data simulated suggest that the effects of the recommended controls significantly impact the incidence of the disease, in contrast to the absence of control cases. Further, we calculate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio to assess the cost and benefits of each potential combination of the two control measures. The findings indicate that public attention, personal hygiene practices, and isolating oneself will all contribute to slowing the spread of COVID-19. Furthermore, those who are infected can readily decrease their virus to become virtually non-detectable with treatment consent.