Prevalence Of Infection Research Articles

First report on human T-lymphotropic virus 1 infection in a group of transgender women.

There is a lack of data on human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1) infection among transgender women (TGW). Therefore, this study estimated the prevalence of HTLV-1 infection in a group of TGW in Brazil. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 235 TGW in Goiânia City, Central Brazil. Respondent-driven sampling was used for recruitment. All participants were interviewed, and serum samples were tested for anti-HTLV-1/2 using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; Murex HTLV-I + II, DiaSorin, Dartford, United Kingdom). Seropositive samples were submitted for confirmation by Western blot (WB; MP Diagnostics HTLV BLOT 2.4 test, MP Biomedicals, Germany). The majority of participants were young (≤ 25 years old), self-declared mixed or brown ethnicity, single, had attended high school, and had a monthly income above US$ 255 (R$ 1,000,00; nearly the minimum wage in Brazil at the time). Most reported earlier age at first sex and various risk behaviors for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Three TGW were anti-HTLV-1/2 positive by ELISA and were subsequently positive for HTLV-1 by WB, giving a crude HTLV-1 seroprevalence of 1.3%; 1.0% (95% CI: 0.0-1.9) after being weighted by RDS Analysis Tool (RDSAT). The HTLV-1 seropositive TGW reported high-risk sexual behaviors. In addition, one of them also engaged in injecting drug use. These data indicate the circulation of HTLV-1 in TGW in Goiânia City, Central Brazil. Given the alarming estimates of high-risk sexual behaviors, there is an urgent need to intensify health programs targeting this population to control and prevent HTLV-1 and other STIs effectively.

Fungal disease incidence and prevalence in Iraq – Preliminary estimates

BackgroundThe surveillance of serious and superficial skin fungal infections in Iraq has not been conducted. Limited information exists on their incidence and prevalence. ObjectivesThis study aimed to analyze, compute and estimate the prevalence and burden of fungal infections, as no previous data is available and no studies has been attempted in Iraq. MethodsIn the present study the data were collected and reviewed from published data on epidemiology of fungal infections nationally, internationally, from unpublished postgraduate master and PhD theses, hospital records and private clinic records. External sources of data from other countries were used for diseases which lacked sufficient local data. ResultsWe estimated 985,628 annual serious infections comprising of 2.26 % of the total population. When including superficial fungal infections group of the skin, this rises to 2,075,113 infections at 4.76 % of the total population. The most common serious and skin infections were recurrent Candida vaginitis, fungal rhinosinusitis and tinea capitis comprising 61.5 %, 21.8 %, and 22.4 % of all infections although the total incidence of superficial fungal infections was also high at 1,071,485. Respiratory fungal disease is also common comprising 14.0 % of infections. We predicted the following annual burden per 100,000; oral candidiasis at 247.9, esophageal candidiasis at 6.04, candidemia at 5.0, Candida peritonitis at 0.75, recurrent Candida vaginitis at 5461, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis at 35, severe asthma with fungal sensitisation at 46, invasive aspergillosis at 7.9, chronic pulmonary aspergillosis at 11.7, chronic fungal rhinosinusitis at 496, mucormycosis at 0.99, fungal keratitis at 14.0, and total dermatophytosis at 1631, the most severe being tinea capitis at 366. Many of these estimates were made with data sourced from other nations, so additional data from Iraq is required to validate or modify these estimates. ConclusionRecurrent Candida vaginitis, fungal rhinosinusitis, and tinea capitis are considered to be the most frequent fungal diseases present in Iraq.

Gastrointestinal helminths of Cattle slaughtered at Gwagwalada abattoir, federal capital territory, Nigeria

Gastrointestinal parasites are widespread in cattle worldwide, causing both clinical and sub-clinical infections that can lead to significant financial losses. This study investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths infection in cattle slaughtered in the abattoir at Gwagwalada area council, federal capital territory, Nigeria. A total of 120 faecal samples were collected and analysed by flotation and sedimentation methods. The results revealed an overall prevalence of 26.67%. The helminths identified were Toxocara sp (5.00%), Schistosoma sp (10.83%), and Fasciola sp (10.83%). These findings were compared to existing studies, with variations attributed to differences in climatic conditions, management practices, and seasonal factors. Age, breed, and sex-specific analyses revealed significant differences in infection rates. While no helminth infection was found in young adult cattle (1≤3 years), a 31.37% prevalence was recorded in older adult cattle (≥3 years). Among the breeds examined, Sokoto Gudali showed the highest prevalence (100%), followed by White Fulani (26.42%) and Red Fulani (16.67%). A significant breed-related difference (p = 0.0001) was recorded. Additionally, male cattle exhibited a higher prevalence (31.37%) compared to (0.00%) in females. The study highlighted the impact of geographical, ecological, and environmental factors on helminths infection, as well as the need for strategic anthelmintic treatment, improved livestock management, and educational programs to control these infections. Regular monitoring and selective breeding may further contribute to long-term infection control in cattle populations.

Morphological and molecular characterization of Henneguya cardii n. sp. (Cnidaria: Myxosporea) from the bulbus arteriosus of European seabass Dicentrarchus labrax (Teleostei: Moronidae).

A new species of Myxobolidae, Henneguya cardii n. sp., is described infecting the European seabass Dicentrarchus labrax, a fish of high commercial value intensively cultivated in southern Europe. Henneguya cardii n. sp. was found in the bulbus arteriosus and spleen with a prevalence of infection of 13.5%. In the heart, it forms irregular whitish plasmodia measuring 1 mm in size. Mature myxospores are broadly obovoid in frontal view and ellipsoidal in lateral view, with 2 equal caudal appendages. Polar capsules are ovoid and symmetric, with 3–4 polar tubule coils. Myxospores measure 10.2 ± 0.6 (8.8–11.6) μm in length, 8.0 ± 0.7 (5.3–8.8) μm in width and 5.6 ± 0.2 (5.1–6.4) μm in thickness. Caudal appendages are 36.6 ± 3.2 (27.4–42.9) μm long. Total spore length is 47.6 ± 3.2 (41.2–53.2) μm. Polar capsules measure 4.0 ± 0.2 (3.4–4.6) by 2.2 ± 0.1 (1.9–2.6) μm. Small subunit ribosomal RNA-based tree topologies position H. cardii n. sp. within a lineage of marine myxobolids that is mostly comprised of other Henneguya species. Host-relatedness is reinforced as the main evolutionary driver for myxobolids, with the positioning of H. cardii n. sp. further suggesting tissue tropism as another important evolutionary driver for marine heart infecting Henneguya. Nonetheless, the inner complexity of this lineage suggests that identification of the evolutionary patterns driving its phylogeny will require discovery of the true diversity of marine myxobolids.

Can Benzimidazole Resistance Undermine the Philippines’ Success in Controlling and Eliminating Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections? A Mini-Review

Abstract Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections remain a significant global health burden, affecting over 1.5 billion people worldwide. In the Philippines, STH infections continue to be prevalent, despite ongoing control efforts. The Integrated Helminth Control Program (IHCP), whose cornerstone is mass drug administration (MDA) with benzimidazole drugs, has shown some success in reducing STH prevalence in the country. However, the persistence of infection prevalence being above the national and global targets and the potential for benzimidazole resistance have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of current control strategies. This review examines the development of benzimidazole resistance in STH, focusing on the role of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the β-tubulin isotype that alter the protein’s amino acid constitution, thereby negatively affecting benzimidazole drug binding efficiency. This review discusses the epidemiology of STH infections in the Philippines, the implementation of IHCP and the potential challenges posed by benzimidazole resistance. This review highlights the need for further research to assess the occurrence of benzimidazole resistance in Philippine STH populations and to explore alternative control strategies. Understanding the mechanisms of benzimidazole resistance and developing effective countermeasures is crucial for achieving sustainable STH control and elimination in the Philippines.

Cold snaps lead to a 5-fold increase or a 3-fold decrease in disease proliferation depending on the baseline temperature

BackgroundClimate change is driving increased extreme weather events that can impact ecology by moderating host–pathogen interactions. To date, few studies have explored how cold snaps affect disease prevalence and proliferation. Using the Daphnia magna–Ordospora colligata host-parasite system, a popular model system for environmentally transmitted diseases, the amplitude and duration of cold snaps were manipulated at four baseline temperatures, 10 days post-exposure, with O. colligata fitness recorded at the individual level.ResultsCold snaps induced a fivefold increase or a threefold decrease in parasite burden relative to baseline temperature, with complex nuances and varied outcomes resulting from different treatment combinations. Both amplitude and duration can interact with the baseline temperature highlighting the complexity and baseline dependence of cold snaps. Furthermore, parasite fitness, i.e., infection prevalence and burden, were simultaneously altered in opposite directions in the same cold snap treatment.ConclusionsWe found that cold snaps can yield complicated outcomes that are unique from other types of temperature variation (for example, heatwaves). These results underpin the challenges and complexity in understanding and predicting how climate and extreme weather may alter disease under global change.

Genital infections in high-risk human papillomavirus positive Paraguayan women aged 30–64 with and without cervical lesions

Objective To determine the prevalence of genital infections (GIs), including sexual transmitted STIs: Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Trichomonas vaginalis, and opportunistic pathogens that generally do not cause STIs, non-classic STI: Ureaplasma urealyticum, Ureaplasma parvum and Mycoplasma hominis, in women with high-risk oncogenic human papillomavirus (hr-HPV) infection and their association with cervical lesions. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out including 231 hr-HPV positive women. Of these, 46 has histologically confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 3 (CIN3) or more (including CIN3 and cervical cancer lesions-CIN3+). GIs were detected by multiplex real time PCR. Odds ratios (OR) were estimated to explore possible associations between GIs and the presence or absence of CIN3+ lesions. Additionally, we examined associations between sociodemographic, sexual, and clinical characteristics and the presence of GIs. Results In total, there were 174/231 cases of GIs corresponding to an overall prevalence of 75.3% (95%CI: 69.4–80.4), being non-classic STIs the most common (72.3%) compared to STIs (12.6%). The most prevalent non-classic STI and STI were U. parvum (49.8%) and C. trachomatis (7.4%), respectively. The odds of presenting GIs were 3 times higher in women under 46 years compared to older counterparts (OR: 3.32, 95%CI: 1.74–6.16), and in women with a normal Pap smear with inflammation compared to those without inflammation (OR: 3.31, 95%CI: 1.15–9.77). GIs were equally present in women with and without CIN3+ lesions. Conclusion We observed an association of GIs with inflammation in the Pap smear, but no association with CIN3+, as some of them are very common and likely part of the normal vaginal flora, suggesting that such infections do not appear to be cofactors in cervical carcinogenesis, although larger prospective studies are needed.

Proportion of secondary bacterial infections among the SARS-COV-2 patients admitted in the selected health facilities in Mombasa and Nairobi counties in Kenya

Background: There is still scarcity of evidence on proportion of secondary bacterial infections among SARS-COV-2 patients in Kenya. This study therefore sought to determine the proportion of secondary bacterial infections among SARS-COV-2 patients in ICUs in the selected health facilities in Mombasa and Nairobi Counties. Methods: The retrospective cross-sectional sampled the records of 385 SARS-COV-2 patients admitted and administered antibiotics during treatment in the intensive care units (ICU) in the six health facilities that acted as isolation and treatment centers for SARS-COV-2 patients between 13th March 2020 and 31st December 2021. The research team reviewed the medical records of the SARS-COV-2 positive patients and extracted the patient demographic data, medical history, underlying co-morbidities, clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, management and treatment measures and antimicrobial susceptibility tests. Results: 47.3% of the patients in the study had secondary bacterial infections. Significant majority of patients of these patients were smokers (n=158, 86.8%, p≤0.05), had very high fever at admission in the ICU (n=139, 76.4%, p=0.033) and were administered iron supplement during the hospital stay (n=125, 68.7%, p=0.027). Conclusions: SARS-COV-2 patients who smoke, report high fever at admission in the ICU and given iron supplement during their stay in the health facility tend to have a high prevalence of secondary bacterial infections.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Surgical Site Infection Following Cesarean Section

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) following Cesarean section (C-section) is a common cause of morbidity and imposes a significant load on the healthcare system. Therefore, the prevalence of factors that make individuals more susceptible to SSI after a C-section should be accurately assessed. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the frequency and risk factors for infection following C-section in women referred to the maternity ward of Ali ibn Abi Talib Hospital in Zahedan, Iran, from 2020 to 2022. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on all women admitted to the maternity ward of Ali ibn Abi Talib Hospital in Zahedan, whether undergoing elective or emergency C-sections. The patients were entered into the study with informed consent and were followed up to one month after surgery. Results: This study showed that approximately 5300 cases of C-sections were performed in Ali ibn Abi Talib Hospital during the mentioned period, of which 120 patients were referred to this hospital again because of surgical site infections. The occurrence of SSI in the present study was 2.26%, and obesity and anemia were identified as the predominant risk factors. The findings showed that the incidence of patients with SSI following a C-section with obesity, anemia, skin scar of previous C-section, rupture of membranes before C-section (> 6 hours), and diabetes mellitus were 80, 76.8, 36.7, 33.3, and 24.2 %, respectively. Conclusions: The recorded incidence of SSI following C-section was comparatively lower than findings from prior studies conducted in developing countries. Although the frequency of these complications is desirable, there are the same number of irreparable complications to mothers and infants and high costs for families and society.

Analysis of Sociodemographic and Clinical Characteristics of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Catalonia Based on SIDIAP.

Background/Objectives: The increasing global prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) presents significant challenges to healthcare systems. Our objective was to identify the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of IBD patients in Catalonia. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out on patients diagnosed with IBD in Catalonia (2021). The database of the Information System for the Development of Research in Primary Care of Catalonia was used. Results: In Catalonia, the prevalence of IBD was 474 cases per 100,000 people (pcm), with an average diagnosis age of 42.9 years. Crohn's disease (CD) represented 34.34% of cases, and 21.2% were smokers and 1% were alcoholics. Nutritional status showed 3% underweight, 36.2% overweight, and 20% obese, with only 0.27% diagnosed as malnutrition. Mental health issues are notable; 36,531 pcm patients were diagnosed with anxiety and 14,656 pcm with depression, and 8.24% had a high risk of mortality measured by the Charlson index. The most prevalent vaccine-preventable infections were influenza (19,356 pcm), herpes zoster (8099 pcm), and varicella zoster (6946 pcm), with 4.56% of patients requiring hospitalisation for one of these reasons and 32.8% of patients for IBD complications, with higher rates observed in cases of CD. Conclusions: The prevalence of IBD was high, especially in urban areas, and patients showed a relevant number of comorbidities. IBD requires a comprehensive evaluation and interdisciplinary management to improve disease control.

National survey on Congenital Cytomegalovirus Awareness and Screening Practices among Healthcare Professionals

ObjectivesCongenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, resulting from maternal-fetal transmission of CMV, poses a substantial risk to maternal and child health. It is the most prevalent congenital viral infection, and the prevention and management of this condition rely heavily on the knowledge and awareness of healthcare professionals. MethodsThis cross-sectional survey was conducted between March 1, 2023, and August 31, 2023, across multiple tertiary centers in various Saudi Arabian cities. It assessed the understanding and awareness of congenital CMV infection among 400 healthcare professionals from diverse specialties. The study utilized a structured questionnaire to evaluate knowledge levels, obtain demographic data, and identify factors influencing awareness. ResultsThe study revealed significant disparities in knowledge levels, with around 84 % of participants categorized as having “low" knowledge. Obstetricians and gynecologists exhibited better knowledge. Factors like specialization, age, and professional experience significantly affected knowledge levels. Additionally, many healthcare professionals perceived a lack of information and awareness regarding CMV among their peers. ConclusionCongenital CMV infection is a major public health concern with potential severe consequences. The study identified knowledge disparities, particularly among non-specialist healthcare practitioners, emphasizing the need for targeted educational programs and focused awareness initiatives. Key factors, such as expertise, age, and experience, underscore the importance of addressing ongoing knowledge gaps, highlighting the need for continuous efforts to mitigate challenges associated with CMV infection.

Ceragenins Prevent the Development of Murine Vaginal Infection Caused by Gardnerella vaginalis

Background/Objectives: Bacterial vaginosis (BV), an infection caused primarily by Gardnerella vaginalis, is the most prevalent vaginal infection. Although BV is often characterized by an asymptomatic course, it can lead to considerable health complications. Currently, BV therapy choices are limited, and available treatments are complicated by concerns about antibiotic resistance. Ceragenins, which together comprise an innovative class of low molecular-weight, cholic acid-based antibacterial agents, have emerged as potential alternatives to conventional treatments. Methods: This study investigates (i) the antibacterial activity of ceragenins against G. vaginalis in in vitro experimental settings at varied pH, and (ii) the effectiveness and anti-inflammatory properties of CSA-13 in a G. vaginalis-induced bacterial vaginosis animal model. Results and Conclusions: We demonstrate that ceragenins, particularly CSA-13, maintain their antibacterial efficacy throughout pH range of 4.5–7, with the highest activity observed at neutral pH (7.0). Additionally, in an animal model, beneficial effects of ceragenins are attributed to anti-inflammatory properties of these compounds, making these compounds promising agents as potential new treatment options against G. vaginalis-associated vaginal infections.

Risk factors for COVID-19 infection among the German older adult population

Abstract Background There are scarce analyses on COVID-19 infection risk factors for the older adult population. This study aims to examine COVID-19 infection risk factors in the older adult general population. Methods The data for this analysis came from the population-representative Study on Health of Older People in Germany (Gesundheit65+) conducted by the Robert Koch Institute from 10/2021 to 08/2022. We considered information on COVID-19 infection status (self-reported infection confirmed by PRC test at least once vs. never), socio-demographic factors, health risk factors, and different face-to-face interactions. The analysis was restricted to 2,976 individuals aged 65+ years with complete infection status information. We assessed weighted prevalences and used univariable and multivariable logistic regressions to evaluate infection risk factors. Results The overall prevalence of infection was 7.2% (95% confidence interval, 6.0-8.7). Infection prevalences were significantly higher (compared to their respective reference group) among participants living in assisted living facilities (24.7% vs. 6.7%), individuals who got help to perform basic activities of daily living (10.8% vs. 6.8%), COVID-19 unvaccinated individuals (25.2% vs. 6.9%), individuals who did not meet family or friends in the last month (12.7% vs. 6.7%), and participants who did not smoke (7.8% vs. 2.6%). No other variable was significantly related to COVID-19 infection. In multivariable analysis, variables independently associated with higher odds ratio (OR) of COVID-19 infection were: living in an assisted living facility OR 3.6 (1.8-7.2), not being vaccinated against COVID-19 OR 4.6 (1.5-14.1), and not smoking OR 1.6 (1.1-2.6). Conclusions The preliminary results of this study align with the prevalence of COVID-19 infection found in concomitant studies. A noteworthy element of our study is the vaccine’s protective effect. The pandemic had a particularly detrimental effect on residents of assisted living facilities Key messages • Improvement in quality of care and infection preventive measures in nursing homes is necessary. • Pandemic preparedness must consider the need for help in the daily life of the older population.

Gastrointestinal infections and ethnicity in the UK: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

Abstract Background Gastrointestinal (GI) infections exert a significant public health burden on healthcare services in the United Kingdom (UK). The literature suggests an association between ethnicity and health; however, we do not know the extent of inequalities in GI infection/disease in the UK. This systematic review aimed to identify studies that ascertain differences in the incidence or prevalence of GI infections between UK ethnic groups and explore possible explanations for heterogeneity observed within the literature. Methods MEDLINE, CINAHL Plus, Web of Science (Science Social Science Citation Index), and grey literature were searched from 1980 to 21st June 2023 for studies reporting an association between ethnicity and GI infections in UK population samples. Two reviewers independently screened the studies and conducted quality appraisals; data extraction was undertaken by one reviewer and verified by another reviewer. A narrative synthesis was undertaken and a harvest plot supported the textual synthesis to investigate potential sources of heterogeneity in effect estimates by GI pathogen and ethnic group. Results The searches identified 10028 studies, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria. 15 out of 47 effect estimates from a total of 16 studies found that GI infection risk was greater in Black and Ethnic Minority Groups, mainly of Asian ethnicity, compared to the majority White population. 13 studies reported a higher risk in ethnic minorities of Asian ethnicity, while one study described a higher risk in the Non-White ethnic group. One single study on STEC reported a higher risk of GI infection in the White population compared to the Non-White population, while another single study on norovirus found no significant difference by ethnic group. Conclusions This systematic review demonstrates that ethnic minority groups in the UK have a higher risk of GI infections than the general or White population. Key messages • There is a clear need to elucidate further the high incidence of GI infections in UK Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi communities. • Tackling ethnic inequalities requires a concerted approach and translating evidence into policy.

Out of sight, into mind: a socioecological model-informed qualitative study on barriers and facilitators to hepatitis B care among West African immigrants in the Bronx, New York

BackgroundThere is a high burden of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in West Africa. Over the past 20 years, West African immigration to the United States (U.S.) has been increasing. Prevalence of HBV infection in West Africa has been reported to be as high as 5–10%.MethodsWe sought to understand knowledge and attitudes of and barriers and facilitators to HBV screening, vaccination, and treatment in a cohort of West African immigrants in the Bronx living with or at risk for HBV through a series of one-on-one qualitative interviews. We interviewed 23 West African immigrants and analyzed transcripts for recurring themes using Applied Thematic Analysis. We situated our analysis in the socioecological model (SEM) and adhered to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ).ResultsMultiple themes emerged, most prominently themes relating to HBV knowledge/awareness, trust in U.S. healthcare providers and the U.S. healthcare system, positive social support improving healthcare access, knowledge sharing, stigma towards those with HBV, issues concerning immigration status, insurance status, and access to healthcare services.ConclusionRaising awareness of HBV, addressing social and structural barriers such as stigma and health insurance, and improving access to culturally sensitive programs among West African communities are needed to increase HBV screening, vaccination, and linkage to care.

Effect of climate change on West Nile virus transmission in Italy: a systematic review

Abstract Background West Nile Virus (WNV) is a pathogen transmitted by mosquitoes of the Culex genus, affecting both humans and animals such as horses and birds. The prevalence of WNV infection has increased dramatically in recent years in Europe, especially in Italy, and has been related to climate and environmental changes linked to global warming. Our review aims to assess the relation between the spread of WNV in Italy and the different climate change-related factors. Methods We conducted a literature search in the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus databases, actualised as of 20 February 2024, using as search terms WNV, its vectors and climate change, and limiting our analysis to studies conducted in to avoid an overly heterogeneous setting. We registered the review in PROSPERO (CRD42023430636). Results Of the 252 unique records retrieved, we eventually included 25 articles after full-text screening. These studies were published between 2011 and 2023 and evaluated the distribution of WNV or its vectors according to various climatic and environmental factors. Despite rather heterogeneous results, we found a consistently positive association with temperature, especially spring temperature, agricultural land use, demography, and soil moisture, and a negative one with evapotranspiration and wind, while the relationship with other environmental variables and water cycle-related factors was weak, null or conflicting. Conclusions Despite some inconsistencies in the results, likely related to differences in study methodologies as well as complex environmental interactions, we found unequivocal evidence that climate change-related factors, such as the lengthening of the warm season, extensive farming, and invasive human activities towards natural environments, favour WNV spread in Italy. Consequently, actions against global warming and preservation of natural environments may counteract the WNV epidemic. Key messages • WNV epidemic seems to be linked to specific climate change-related factors, such as the lengthening of the warm season, extensive farming, and invasive human activities towards natural environments. • Actions against global warming and preservation of natural environments may counteract WNV spread.

Latent tubercolosis infection in the migrant population: an Italian surveillance experience

Abstract Background The Special Reception Center (“Centro Accoglienza Straordinario” or CAS in Italian) concept was born in Italy in 2014 to receive the large number of migrants arriving in Italy. There are around 3100 centres are in Italy, of which 200+ in Tuscany. Each Center’s objective is to support migrants’ social integration through Italian language and job orientation courses. On arrival at a facility, migrants undergo diagnostic and lab tests to highlight potentially infectious diseases; among these, tuberculosis is one of the most frequently encountered. Therefore, the objective of the study is to estimate the prevalence of Latent Tuberculosis Infections (LTBIs) among migrants hosted in CAS centers. Methods From May-December 2023, Amiata Senese, Val d’Orcia and Valdichiana Senese Public Health Unit staff, according to national and departmental guidelines, implemented a number of health surveillance protocols, with close attention to latent tuberculosis infection. This protocol includes the Mantoux TB skin test at the CAS: in case of positivity, subjects are directed to further exams (chest X-ray, TB-IGRA blood test, infectious disease specialist consultation) in order to implement a therapy. Results From May-December 2023, 259 migrants (241 males and 18 females) received the TB skin tests. Average subject age was 26. Pakistan was the most represented nation of origin with 130 migrants (50%), followed by Bangladesh (9.7%) and Ivory Coast (7.3%). 77 migrants showed a positive TB skin test result (29.7%): of these 56 (i.e. 21.6% of the migrants screened) were also positive to the TB-IGRA blood test and treated for LTBI. Conclusions The high prevalence of LTBIs found in the referenced CAS indicates the need to continue/extend these surveillance protocols. Implementing successfully this procedure requires the involvement of a range of professionals from the socio-health sector within a process necessarily coordinated by the Disease Prevention Department. Key messages • Screening and surveillance of infectious diseases among migrant population represent a major public health issue for European health systems. • Detection and treatment of Latent Tubercolosis Infections require a multiprofessional and integrated approach, coordinated by the Disease Prevention Department.

The circulating characteristics of common respiratory pathogens in Ningbo, China, both before and following the cessation of COVID-19 containment measures

To assess the circulating characteristics of common respiratory pathogens following the complete relaxation of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) and the cessation of the dynamic zero-COVID policy. The retrospective analysis was conducted from 14,412 patients with acute respiratory infections (ARIs) from January 24, 2020, to December 31, 2023, including Influenza A virus (IFV-A), Influenza B virus (IFV-B), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Human Rhinovirus (HRV), Human Parainfluenza Virus (HPIV), Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Human Coronavirus (HCoV), Human Bocavirus (HBoV), Human Adenovirus (HAdV), and Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP). Compared with 2020–2022, Joinpoint analysis indicated a monthly increase in overall pathogen activity in 2023, rising from an average of 43.05% to an average of 68.46%. The positive rates of IFV-A, IFV-B, HMPV, HPIV, HCoV, and MP increased, while those of HRV and RSV decreased, and no differences in HAdV and HBoV. The outbreak of IFV-A and MP was observed, the positive rate of MP has surpassed pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels and the spread of RSV was interrupted by IFV-A. Infants and toddlers were primarily infected by HRV and RSV, Children and adolescents exhibited a higher prevalence of infections with MP, IFV-A, and HRV, whereas Adults and the elderly were primarily infected by IFV-A. The incidence of co-infections rose from 4.25 to 13.73%. Restricted cubic spline models showed that the susceptible age ranges for multiple pathogens expanded. These changes serve as a reminder to stay alert in the future and offer clinicians a useful guide for diagnosing and treating.

High infection prevalence in patients who develop severe acute kidney injury during heart failure hospital admission

Abstract Background Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in acute HF and associated with poor prognosis. (1-3) The cause of AKI is often unknown. Purpose The aim of this analysis was to analyse the data for patients with a severe AKI which developed during a HF admission and identify potential triggers in the preceding 7 days (e.g., infection, hypotension, contrast agents.). Methods Data between January 2022 to March 2023 was obtained from that submitted by our centre to the mandatory National HF Audit which collects data from every patient admitted with acute HF. For this analysis, baseline renal function was retrospectively collected from electronic patient records, and chronic kidney disease and AKI were subsequently defined, as per KDIGO guidelines(4), using baseline and admission measurements. Electronic patient records were reviewed for all patients who developed AKI stage 2/3 ≥48 hours after admission. Data collected during the week prior to their AKI included any radioiodine contrast exposure, temperature ≥ 38⁰C, antibiotics, CRP >100mg/L and periods of sustained hypotension. Results Of the 843 HF hospital admissions between January 2022 and March 2023, 507 (60.1%) were not associated with AKI [inpatient (IP) mortality 5.9%], 237 (28.1%) had an AKI stage 1 [IP mortality 17.3%], 51 (6.0%) had an AKI stage 2 [IP mortality 25.5%] and 48 (5.7%) had an AKI stage 3 [IP mortality 33.3%]. The age, diabetic status and ejection fraction of patients was similar across AKI stages. Of these, 64 patients developed their AKI stage 2 (n=30) or 3 (n=34) on or after their second day of HF hospital admission. 22 (34.3%) of these patients died during this admission, and 37 (57.8%) had died after a median follow-up of 217.5 days (IQR 24-331.75) (Table 1). 71.9% had evidence of an infection (defined by a temperature spike ≥38⁰C, received antibiotics, OR CRP >100mg/dL) in the week prior to developing their AKI (Table 2). 39% of patients had received a contrast agent in the preceding week, and 39% had experienced persistent hypotension in the preceding 48 hours. 25% had 2 of these potential triggers, 17.2% had 3. Six patients (9.4%) had no apparent identifiable triggers. 25% had not had renal function checked for 48h prior to AKI. Conclusion The most frequent identifiable potential trigger for severe AKI was infection in 72%, followed by contrast agent (39%) and hypotension (39%). Many patients had multiple triggers. Over-diuresis in isolation was not identified as a trigger for AKI in this cohort. Severe AKI 2/3 is a marker of extreme mortality risk and identifies patients in need of intensive monitoring. Lack of daily bloods in one quarter of patients led to a delay in AKI alert. Close observation for all acute HF patients including daily bloods and early identification and treatment of infection plus judicious and least use of contrast is needed to reduce the high mortality rates in this population.

Prevalence of Torque Teno Virus, Hepatitis and Cytomegalovirus Infection in Iranian Patients With Different Types of leukemia

Background and Objectives: Torque teno virus (TTV) infection can be seen in different types of leukemia and may affect clinical outcomes. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of TTV, hepatitis B and C virus, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) in Iranian patients with different types of leukemia. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 95 patients with different types of leukemia participated. The molecular prevalence of TTV infection was evaluated using the semi-nested PCR method. The prevalence of HBs-Ag and HCV-Ab viruses was measured by the ELISA method. Also, the prevalence of active CMV infection was investigated by the semi-quantitative antigenemia test. The data analysis was done in SPSS software version 12 using logistic regression analysis, chi-square test, and Fisher’s exact test. Results: The TTV infection was found in 40 out of 95 patients (42.1%). The presence of HBs-Ag was reported in 27 out of 95 patients (28.4%). HCV-Ab was found in 18 out of 69 patients (26.1%), and active CMV infection was found in 11 out of 69 (15.9%). Among 40 leukemia patients with TTV infection, 15 (37.5%) had hepatitis B, 14 (35%) had hepatitis C, and 7 (17.5%) had CMV infection. Conclusion: The high prevalence of single or comorbid TTV infection among Iranian patients with leukemia emphasizes the importance of this virus in causing or aggravating the clinical complications observed in these patients.